This contest period's winners were Nancy R. from Joy, IL; Natalie P-S from Austin, TX; and Sue Em from Pittsburgh, PA. Each received a copy of HEART THE LOVER by Lily King and THE IMPOSSIBLE FORTUNE: A Thursday Murder Club Mystery by Richard Osman.
Rebecca
A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles
Great read. An aristocrat is sentenced to a life in a hotel in Moscow. The people he meets and history he witnesses lead us to the end with a “did he or didn’t he?” This is a fast-paced, want to keep reading, sorry it’s over tale.
Susan
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Loved the creativity that this author showed in her novel!! It took me a bit of time with getting to know all the characters. However, this is a book you must read!! I look forward to reading more of Alison Espach’s books!!
Dvora
The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
Intriguing.
Judi
The Lion Women of Tehran by Marjan Kamali
What a fabulous story of friendship and love during a time of political upheaval. The author's presentation of a very personal story of the reactions of two young women to the Iranian revolution was beautifully written and kept me turning the pages. After reading, I listened to your interview with Marjan and I liked this powerful story even more.
Natalie
The Diamond Eye by Kate Quinn
Not quite the edge-of-your-seat read I was expecting. It’s rather more of a cold reflection of a young woman’s account of her life as a Russian sniper toward the end of WWII. Different from other WWII accounts due to placing the reader in the position of the eastern front.
Susan
The Rose Code by Kate Quinn
I enjoy WWII historical fiction and THE ROSE CODE was an interesting book. Quinn does a great job of character and plot development. It is interesting to read about women who worked at Bletchley Park and the important and secretive work they did. I would recommend THE ROSE CODE.
Francisca
Love Anthony by Lisa Genova
Two women, each struggling with grief and change, meet on Nantucket one summer. One has lost her autistic child (and her marriage), the other has had her marriage broken by an extramarital affair. As they try to recover and heal, they find a common thread, and begin to help one another heal. I liked the parts of the book narrated by Anthony best.
Michelle
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
Extremely disappointing for me. It started with beautiful writing at the very beginning with a compelling premise that l’d hoped would ultimately be about perseverance and redemption. Instead, both the plot and the writing were all over the place. And even the climax of the book, which seemed to be leading to something big hearted and powerful, was very underwhelming for me. Only after discussing with my book group did I realize I missed something big in the ending. And even the newly discovered ending only further disappointed me.
Gina
Dream Count by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Absolutely loved this book about mothers and daughters, women friendships, personal desire versus cultural expectations. The writing is beautiful, funny and wise and completely captivating.
It was a huge hit with my book club. Highly recommend. And, if you never read AMERICANAH,
go back and read it!
Wanda
It Happened on the Lake by Lisa Jackson
A page-turner and suspense novel which makes you guess continuously. Characters are well written, most you love, but then something happens and you question who they really are. Great story, fast read!!
MH
Battle of the Bookstores by Ali Brady
Better than average hate-love story. When the owner of the whole block decides to combine the two bookstores, it pits the manager of the romance bookstore against the manager of the literary store. In a twist, the romantic bookstore manager is a man. After a series of events designed to enhance their stores, the managers come up with a plan to defeat the owner. Will it work?
Melinda
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
A surprisingly good book written entirely of letters to friends, family, famous authors and enemies. We learn about Sybil Van Antwerp’s life through humor and honesty.
Rosa
Typewriter Beach by Meg Waite Clayton
This is a beautifully-written novel set in two time periods - 1950s Hollywood and 2018. In the 1950s, Hollywood was in the midst of blacklisting people in the film industry who were suspected of being Communists. Also during this era, film stars were under contract and female stars were especially vulnerable to unreasonable standards and having to do things they didn't want to do in order to secure roles. This was so far before the MeToo movement. I loved this story about Leo, a blacklisted screenwriter, and Isabella, a young actress trying to make it in Hollywood. Fast forward to 2018, and Leo's granddaughter Gemma is mourning her Gran's death. Meg Waite Clayton's writing is lyrical and poetic, quiet and flowing. I savored all the words.
jana
Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely? by Sarah McCoy
Loved, loved this book by a new author to me!
Teresa
The Second Chance Convenience Store by Kim Ho-Yeon
Far be it from me to criticize someone translating a book. I’ve studied two languages and I’m not fluent in either one, but this book is a little awkward to read because of the less than smooth translation, although I suspect the cultural differences between South Korea and the US contribute to most of that. The characters in the convenience store have compelling stories, but that awkwardness, especially in dialogue, combined with the English-speaking reader trying to guess at motivation that seems cultural, makes it challenging to enjoy.
Teresa
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
Wow, it’s been days since I finished and I still miss the characters in this novel. I learned a great deal about NASA and what it takes to become an astronaut, and it is daunting, to say the least. Add in personality and personal issues, and what a fabulous novel it makes.
Mary
Date with Mystery by Julia Chapman
Great characters and an interesting mystery!
Elise
Rainwater by Sandra Brown
The story is set in the1930s life in a small town. A single mother is running a boarding house while raising her autistic son in the days before diagnosis. A newcomer with nothing to lose comes to town and fights for justice. The story about fighting odds to try to thrive and survive has some wonderful minor characters and a story that moves along.
Simonne
The Saints of Swallow Hill by Donna Everhart
Working in turpentine camps brings the two main characters up against some of the most evil people.
Jill
Woodworking by Emily St. James
A wonderful story of transition and the struggles to find the strength to do it. Erica is scared to death of doing it, but gets help from Abigail, her student who has already done so and from other surprising sources. It tells of this friendship and how it changes both people during the novel. Highly recommend.
Denise
The Break-In by Katherine Faulkner
What starts as a nice, normal life for a family of 3 in upscale London, soon develops into a series of troubling events. A home playdate turns into a murder scene. Alice the mother, claims it was self-defense. Her husband & nanny along with her friends that were there, all tell her she was just protecting the children & to move on with her life, yet they seem to be acting strange as if they are keeping something from her. She can’t stop obsessing and questioning the events of that night & reading the unsettling internet posts about her that are almost threats. Strange phone calls occur, saying it’s not all as it seems, now second guessing herself & the intruder’s motive. Secrets & lies are behind the characters creating tension. A fun read!
MICHAEL
The Getaway by Lamar Giles
This is a fantastic Young Adult novel!
Aida
The Kind Worth Saving by Peter Swanson
Interesting book. Lots of twists and turns.
Susan
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
Love, love this book. From the first sentence I was hooked. Love, war and small town - what could be better? I have been recommending it to everyone!
Shelley
The Names by Florence Knapp
This novel spanned time in year gaps with three possible life outcomes supposedly dependent on what a child was named. It was like the movie "Groundhog Day" with more significant personality changes for the principals over the years, as well as dealing with serious spousal abuse issues. This book has continued to resonate with me.
Jonell
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
More twists than expected from this emotional story about a woman who is married to a farmer when her first love comes back to the community. Lots of family drama and good storytelling.
Helen
Separation of Church and Hate by John Fugelsang
John compiles many of the scriptures and teachings fundamentalists use to show why we should hate or restrict some populations. Then he shows what Jesus actually said. Those who claim to be Christian would do well to read this.
Karen
Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo
Very involved.
Pam
Divine Rivals by Rebecca Ross
Exciting, yet mysterious; magic, love, loss, and mystery included.
Lynda
The Guncle by Steven Rowley
There's lots of comic dialogue in this "dramedy" along with a heartwarming story of how Patrick, his niece and nephew help each other cope with loss. Guncle (gay uncle) Patrick is the fun one with a big heart that I wished I had when I was a child going through a rough patch!
Ann
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
This was sent to me by a friend. I read it in two days. The story with its quirky characters is very enjoyable.
Elizabeth
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
This was an amusing story, and I liked the setting in a senior home, but it was not that innovative and somewhat cliched.
Sandy
Gone Tonight by Sarah Pekkanen
I finished this book in two days. That is how good it was. The story of a mother and daughter that kept moving from town to town to keep from people from the mother's past from finding them. The daughter didn't know why they kept moving, and when she was older she started trying to find out about her mother's past.
Linda
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
I couldn't put this book down, and now want to read every book that was mentioned within this book. It brought me back to the first time I read THE FEMININE MYSTIQUE and how it opened my eyes when I didn't even know were closed.
Karen
Long Island by Colm Toibin
An Irish young girl moves to America for a new life. She meets and marries an Italian boy, then travels back to Ireland. She doesn't mention being married until after she falls in love with Jim. She returns to America and faces a decision about staying with her husband after she learns of a devastating situation. The Italian family is a tight-knit group. She is the outsider. She has two children and a strong mother-in-law.
Gabriel
Meet Cute Diary by Emery Lee
Noah’s entitlement, shallowness, and childish rudeness could be grating. It wasn’t fun, catty meanness when he was being judgmental and nasty to someone who only seemed to be sweet and genuine or to people who were supportive and giving a lot to him. He was a teenager, and it felt like age-appropriate behavior. And, obviously, it was the setup for his character development, but I don’t know if he really changed enough for me to not still be put off by it at the end of the book. Noah never really did become a better friend to Becca. He wasn’t doing anything really horrible; he just never stopped doing the same things that drove her away, (making everything about himself, snapping at her instead of dealing with his own emotions.)
Rose
Far and Away by Amy Poeppel
After a scandal involving her son Jack, which resulted in him being expelled before graduation, Lucy decides to move her family away until the frenzy and attention settle down. Greta and Otto need a change after Otto receives some upsetting job news. So, without knowing each other, Lucy and Greta agree to a house swap. Lucy, with her three children head to Berlin, and Greta and Otto head to Dallas. Initially, things are bumpy but they correspond and get to know each other tangentially. Greta's daughter heads to Berlin and meets Jack. Greta's downstairs neighbor opens up to Lucy, and she realizes that he is keeping a secret. Lucy's husband is an astronaut, and is away in seclusion on a trial space mission.Too many characters, predictable.
Rose
The Missing Years by Lexie Elliott
Ailsa Calder has inherited a house in Scotland but she can't sell it or rent it because her father's name is on the deed. The only problem - her father has been missing for 27 years. The house, the Manse, seems to be trying to tell her something. Dead animals show up on her doorstep and spooky sounds, banging doors, and other scary things happen. She wonders who to trust, and she imagines all sorts of scenarios for her father - dead, living on a tropical island, married to someone else, and more. She doesn't know what is real and what isn't. As she learns more about the community, she suspects all her new acquaintances. This novel has a Gothic feel and the Manse has some feelings that are expressed in strange ways. It was eerie.
Cheryl
A Murderer Among Us by Marilyn Levinson
Loved this book!! Great cast of characters. It was a page-turner. The best who-done-it I have read. Kept my interest with a wonderful storyline.
Donna
The Wasp Trap by Mark Edwards
THE WASP TRAP by Mark Edwards is a binge-worthy, suspenseful locked-room mystery. Truly unputdownable. Told in dual timelines, this dark, twisted tale held me captive from the very start. With interesting, layered characters, and the tension building minute by minute, it kept me guessing to the very end. An oh-so-clever psychological thriller.
Debbie
Society of Lies by Lauren Ling Brown
What an utter vicious look at Princeton University and the life of the privileged students that party all the time and then pay someone to take their tests. The story revolts around the death of two female students ten years apart. Maya Banks, a poor, but brilliant student hopes to receive membership into the exalted Sterling Club. This “eating club” propels its members into an elite society. No rules apply to this membership. A fellow student, Lila James, supposedly falls into a ravine and dies during a ski trip that Maya attended. Now, ten years later, Maya’s young sister, Naomi, drowns on the eve of her graduation. The suspense increases as Maya and Daisy attempt to figure out what happened and is happening again.
Debbie
The Heaven and Earth Grocery Store by James McBride
THE HEAVEN AND EARTH GROCERY STORE bored me to tears. I tried to force this untimely tome on myself. Maybe my psyche could not comprehend the story. I wanted to uncover the crime of the ancient bones found during an evacuation, but the writing style of James McBride did little to push me further into the book. Maybe another time the story will compel me to continue reading.
Debbie
Sulfur Springs by William Kent Krueger
Yes, little by little I am gliding through the Cork O’Connor series by William Kent Krueger. Cork and his recent wife, Rainy, head to Arizona to help Rainy’s son, Peter. The excessive heat in Arizona parallels the problems of Arizona’s border with Mexico involving human trafficking, drugs, and illegal immigrants. Evil drug lords control the small town and Cork and Rainy have no idea who to trust. Krueger’s description of the Arizona desert and the surrounding area cause the sweat glands to perspire. Will Cork and Rainy find Peter and learn why he is hiding? Also during this descent into horror, Rainy confesses past indecent actions in her life. Cork also meets Rainy’s ex-husband, now a powerful member of the community.
Debbie
Maria La Divina by Jerome Charyn
MARIA LA DIVINA by Jerome Charyn presents a fictional account of Maria Callas. What a story! A seventeen-year old chunky, myopic transforms herself into the leading soprano of her time. The road turns and pivots into an uphill battle. World War II creates a back road and limits Maria’s goal to sing, but sing she must at all costs. The determination and courage of Maria lands her at La Scala in Italy and the Metropolitan Opera in America. But these feats came at great risks on Maria. Her voice captivated her listeners. And many important men wooed her: Bernardo Scarpia, Tito Gobbi, and Aristotle Onassis. The relationship with Onassis lasted from 1959 until 1968. This relationship continued even though Onassis married Jacqueline Kennedy.
Donna
Taste by Stanley Tucci
Stanley Tucci talks about his grandparents’ emigration to America and the life that they left behind in Italy. He shares traditions and characteristics of people from this region of Italy which I enjoyed reading since I also have relatives from this area. He describes how both his childhood and adulthood have been strongly influenced by food. He also includes several recipes. At the end of the book, he describes his treatment for cancer and the grueling side effects which made eating, which is such an important part of his life, impossible. Reading the book made me really appreciate life and food.
Sharon
Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah
This was such a sad book! Having been in St. Petersburg (formerly the Leningrad of this book's setting), seen the results of the war on both lad and people there, I was deeply moved. And having been in Sitka, Alaska--and the Russian Orthodox Church described in the book-- I felt so connected. Hannah does a superb job of making characters "real", of developing each person's life and reactions.
Jeanne
A Dark and Deadly Journey by Julia Kelly
A DARK AND DEADLY JOURNEY by Julia Kelly is Book 3 of the intriguing Evelyne Redfern series, which is set in WWII when the British spy and her annoying, but very good looking partner are sent to Lisbon to track down vital missing information needed by the Allies. I like this author’s writing style and the storyline was both intriguing and captivating from beginning to end. The author did a good job creating and developing the characters. I received a copy of this book from Goodreads and these opinions are strictly my own. I thought it was historical fiction at its best and recommend reading it.
Cheryl
The Crone of Midnight Embers by Iris Beaglehole
Cute witchy book.
Vicki
Still Life by Sarah Winman
Loved it! It takes place in London and Florence, Italy and is about the complicated relationship of a man returning from the war (WWII) and the woman he loves.
Amy
The World According to Garp by John Irving
The characters are messy and flawed, but that’s what makes them feel real. Irving throws in so many odd situations—some hilarious, some tragic—that you never really know what’s coming next. One chapter you’re laughing, the next you’re kind of shocked into silence. It’s definitely not a “light” read, but it’s the kind of book that sticks with you. If you like stories that mix humor with heavy themes—and you don’t mind some strangeness—you’ll probably enjoy it.
Melissa
The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins
It was twisty and dark - perfect for a stormy weekend!
Melissa
Against the Loveless World by Susan Abulhawa
This novel is a powerful story of the chances and choices that lead a young girl through her life and into her adult years as a Palestinian refugee and her radicalization. It is hard to hear such horrible things in such a human voice. It brings the far away very near.
Pam
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
A wonderful book told in a series of letters. Sybil, the main character, writes letters, beautiful letters to family, friends, celebrities and more which all come together to reveal her life, both past and present. It's engaging from the very beginning. She's articulate, funny, and smart with a no-nonsense approach to life.
Tessa
Red, White & Royal Blue by Casey McQuiston
Just a lovely male/male romance! Follows the typical trope of enemies-to-lovers, but with a political twist because an outed romance between these two scions of important families could derail their respective family’s plans and cause an international scandal. I really liked both Alex and Prince Henry.
Kimberley
I See You’ve Called in Dead by John Kenney
The novelist hit death and mourning straight-on with humor and acceptance. There isn’t one page that leaves the reader without a smile. The lost art of the obituary is an eye-opener and life lessons are presented without being to preachy. The reader will finish the novel with a refreshed view on life and those around us.
Dara
Echoes by Maeve Binchy
Not one of Ms. Binchy's best stories. Drags on and the characters are not very interesting.
Rose
Bloomsbury Girls by Natalie Jenner
While I enjoyed that the story was set in a bookstore, and also examined how the women's lives changed throughout the book, due to their friendship and holding each other up through their literary connections, I thought there were too many storylines and I wasn't interested enough in them. I did find the historical information interesting, the rules of the shop, and how men controlled various things - until the women took charge. I also liked how real authors were included in the story.
Rose
Too Old for This by Samantha Downing
Lottie is living her life in Oregon when she receives a visit from a woman, Plum Dixon, who wants to do a docuseries on Lottie. Plum believes Lottie was wrongly accused of murder and wants to clear her name. But, Lottie doesn't want any publicity. She thought she left that behind years earlier when she changed her name and moved to this town and joined a small church community. So, there is only one thing for Lottie to do - and that is to kill Plum. I hate to say that this book about a serial killer is humorous, but it is. Murder and the things she does to avoid being caught are framed in a funny way. She keeps getting deeper and deeper into the deception as the book goes along. I highly recommend the audio version!
Rose
Three Wild Dogs [and the Truth] by Markus Zusak
Markus Zusak writes a funny and breathtakingly honest memoir about his family and their decision to adopt rescue dogs. These dogs were not well-behaved! It is a nice tale about how these dogs worked their way into the hearts of the Zusak family, although they were troublesome - they bit, they didn't listen, they took off running after people to attack them. Markus writes about trying to train them and his failures. But, the best parts are when he talks about saving the dogs, and how they dogs saved them. A wonderful memoir for anyone who has ever had, loved, and lost a pet.
Rose
The Inside Ring by Mike Lawson
Joe DeMarco is asked to investigate the attempted assassination of the president. An author and agent are killed, but the president is not killed. As Joe goes deep into the backwater swaps of Georgia, he uncovers a nasty man and his control of an entire county. Joe tries to find the connection between this man and the agent that Joe believes was one of the compromised agents on the inside ring. Along with a superstar agent, Emma, they get involved with the nasty underside of a corrupt man. As they untangle the secrets that led to the attempt on the president, they realize they were looking in the wrong direction. An interesting thriller, but I hated the objectification and sexual characterization of the female characters.
Brumby
Careless People by Sarah Wynn-Williams
Oh my - shocking. A nonfiction book hasn’t kept me this invested since Trevor Noah!!!
Andrea
The Wide Wide Sea by Hampton Sides
This is an absolutely amazing tome! Filled with information England's imperial ambition in 1776 and the "fateful final voyage of Captain James Cook." Highly recommend.
Vicki
Culpability by Bruce Holsinger
Knowing very little about AI, I was very interested in reading this book. Enjoyed it very much!
Margery
Gather Me: A Memoir in Praise for the Books That Saved My Life by Glory Edim
This is an interesting memoir that links the books of Glory’s life. Hearing the impact of books on one’s life brings hope and understanding to the importance of books.
Marianne
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
Great book!
Ina
Spectacular Things by Beck Dorey-Stein
Wonderfully-told story about the relationship between two sisters; it’s a tale of resilience and sacrifice.
Donna
Taste by Stanley Tucci
Stanley Tucci talks about his grandparents’ emigration to America and the life that they left behind in Italy. He shares traditions and characteristics of people from this region of Italy which I enjoyed reading since I also have relatives from this area. He describes how both his childhood and adulthood have been strongly influenced by food. He also includes several recipes. At the end of the book, he describes his treatment for cancer and the grueling side effects which made eating, which is such an important part of his life, impossible. Reading the book made me really appreciate life and food.
Christine
Lessons from My Teachers by Sarah Ruhl
I really liked the story of the book and it was not boring.
Judy
Those Empty Eyes by Charles Donlea
Very exciting, could hardly put down!
Ivy
Family Spirit by Diane McKinney-Whetstone
To be born with the 'knowing' spirit is both a blessing and a curse for women in the Maces family. A story told within a story makes this novel a brilliant spiritual journey.
Jane
An Inside Job by Daniel Silva
Classic Daniel Silva thriller mystery. Gabriel Allon solves the crime! Charming, witty, engaging.
Dvora
Finding Grace by Loretta Rothschild
Intriguing.
Maureen
Fellowship Point by Alice Elliott Dark
A multi-decade novel following two octogenarians who have been friends since childhood. It takes place in Maine and the author's descriptions are riveting and give you a sense that she either has lived in Maine or vacationed there. You can tell that she loves the land. Her characters keep you engaged as she reveals their past, layer by layer.
Robin
Full Bloom by Francesca Serritella
I very much enjoyed this book with its turns. I also liked the perfume references.
Karen
When Sleeping Women Wake by Emma Pei Yin
This is one of those books you just can't put down and that you hate for it to end. So good!
Chris
Dreamer: My Life on the Edge by Nazem Khadri
Great story, unflinching, real.
Marcie
Apostle’s Cove by William Kent Krueger
First, I confess to truly appreciating Mr. Krueger’s writing, loving ALL his novels! I have read most of them twice - something I have never done before (too many books, too little time). APOSTLE'S COVE did not disappoint me. Krueger sets the scene for the story, switches to flashbacks (to explain the current situation) for a murder that occurred on Cork O’Connor’s (main character) watch as Sheriff in Aurora, MN. The story is well developed, involved old and new characters; and Henry (my favorite character) is still in the story hanging in as a weakened, but still strong of mind and soul centenarian! The story offers examination of moral standards, of guilt felt, of the indigenous peoples’ wisdom, prompting us to examine our own as well.
Arlene
The Last Carolina Summer by Karen White
This story just resonated with me. Karen White is one of my favorite authors.
Arlene
Where the Rivers Merge by Mary Alice Monroe
This is one of the best family novels I have read in a long time. Each personality comes to life.
Can't wait to read her sequel, WHERE THE RIVERS END.
Kathleen
On a Quiet Street by Seraphina Nova Glass
Loved the writing style, development of characters, and the mystery/spy novel genre.
Gretchen
The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman
This was the best yet. Plan to read all of the series.
Gina
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
Taut, atmospheric, tragic and very beautiful. People living lives they thought they were expected to live. Stifling and sad. Life provides us with many crossroads. Consequences are not always possible to predict.
Brenda
Death on the Island by Eliza Reid
Intriguing mystery. Characters were well developed.
Sandra
Aliens on the Moon by Thomas King
A quirky book by indigenous writer Thomas King. If aliens landed on the moon, how would people react?
Connie
Life and Other Inconveniences by Kristan Higgins
Another great generational novel by Kristan Higgins. Great character development.
Barbara
Mad Honey by Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Finney Boylan
An amazing book. Well-written, keeps you guessing. Great character development, great plot, you really feel for these people. The authors have taken difficult topics and have woven a wonderful, heartfelt story that seems so real and so current.
Luella
Whidbey by T. Kira Madden
This was a very complex read. It tells both sides of the story. It really keeps your interest.
Maryanne
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
One of his best books! His treatment of the teens was heartbreaking and awe-inspiring.
sandy
Wayward Girls by Susan Wiggs
i'd heard about the Magdalene laundries in Ireland, where unwed mothers and other 'wayward' girls were sent to the nuns who would straighten them out to be upstanding in the eyes of the church. I didn't know they'd also be in the U.S. This story takes place in Buffalo, NY, where the main character is sent to the home by her mother in order to keep her safe from her stepfather. There's a core group of 6 girls who become close friends and constantly fight the nuns and the rules. The story follows them at the home and after they manage to escape - and then meet up again 50 years later. Fascinating and sickening at the same time.
Debra
Slanting Towards the Sea by Lidija Hilje
This debut novel is written by a Croatian author who is writing in English, her second language. Stunning prose with an emphasis on place. Croatia becomes a character itself. This novel revolves around a woman, her ex-husband and his current wife. A reflective novel about the power of relationships, both past and present. It’s a thoughtful and introspective character study that truly made me feel and understand their humanity. Such a beautiful and emotional coming-of-age story.
Donna
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
A wonderful story.
barbara
The Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain
Great story of a young White college student volunteering to recruit Black people to vote who suffered the consequences of the KKK for her efforts.
Katie
Jess and Norma by Jessica Asquith
I fell in love with this duo on Instagram. They are lovely.
GAYLE
The Thursday Murder Club by Richard Osman
Loved the book, especially that the characters were senior citizens. I had seen the author on TV so was anxious to read book. After learning what actors were to star in movie, I visualized the actors as I read the book.
Rose
Intermezzo by Sally Rooney
A tale of a two brothers and their grief after the death of their father to cancer. Peter, an attorney, and Ivan, 10 years younger, a chess player, both deal with their grief in various ways. Peter loves Sylvia and also a young college student, Naomi. Ivan is with a woman about 15 years older and Peter doesn't approve. They grieve and their relationships are complicated. I felt a lot of this was repetitive, I despised the super long chapters, and I didn't need the multiple descriptive sex scenes. I did like the ending.
Carol
Katabasis by R. F. Kuang
This book interrogates how the academy glorifies the life of the mind to the detriment of the material realities of the body, how it normalizes self-harm and abuse in the name of intellectual pursuit. There are swashbuckling battles against hellish opponents, but the main thrust of the story actually lies in a slow unfolding of the hell Alice has made of her own life. Blending the rhythmic flow of an academic paper with the raw emotions of a sinner’s confession, Kuang pulls us into Alice’s mind as she scrapes together increasingly questionable justifications for increasingly questionable decisions. This story is dark, interesting and unexplainable!
Carol
Seascraper by Benjamin Wood
You need to read this short, atmospheric story! It is treading a singular path with unfashionable yet heartfelt accounts of lives that long for a wider horizon. A very powerful and inspiring story of a man wanting more for himself among the struggles of hard work and supporting family.
Susan
News of the World by Paulette Jiles
We all enjoyed it in our book club.
Sherry
The Counterfeit Countess by Elizabeth B. White
Interesting book.
Sue
Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier
Loved the characters in this book and their amazing search for fossils! A book that hit on the class distinction in England in the 1800s, the perception of women and the desire to learn and grow personal knowledge. Two amazing true-life woman that I had to research after reading the book.
Pam
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
A fun and easy to read love story with family drama as well.
Rita
The Secret Place by Tana French
Detectives Antoinette Conway and Stephen Moran take on a case of a murdered student at an all-girls boarding school. You get to know the detectives as well as the students in the school. Conway works in Murder Squad and is the only female detective. Moran wants a chance to work in the Murder Squad, which Conway allows on a conditional basis. They end up working well together. I would recommend this book if you like character-driven police procedurals. Tana French is a fantastic writer!
Nancy
The Comfort of Ghosts: Maisie Dobbs Book #18 by Jacqueline Winspear
This is her last Maisie Dobbs book. Will miss her character!
Donna
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
You know the euphoria you experience when one of your most anticipated reads lives up to your expectations? That was the feeling I had reading the poignant tale BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan. This absorbing story spans decades, set against the backdrop of WWII and the Vietnam War. Two families in small town Bonhomie, Ohio become enmeshed in ways they never could have imagined, which in turn irrevocably changes all of their lives. This is a character-driven novel for those who enjoy intimate family drama featuring characters so real and raw. I highly recommend.
annette
The Lost Baker of Vienna by Sharon Kurtzman
Interesting book and well written. However, nothing really new in the book about the Holocaust and those living through the nightmare.
Elizabeth
Under the Stars by Beatriz Williams
I always enjoy Williams' books and this one was excellent! I especially enjoyed the maid’s story.
Darlene
The Dearly Beloved by Cara Wall
Different type of story. Very timely because of autism concerns in the news.
Donna
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
A heartwarming story told through correspondence.
Julie
Tilt by Emma Pattee
I was surprised by how much I enjoyed this novel! It was a fast-paced, engaging read, full of vivid imagery and raw emotion. I was easily transported to Portland alongside the female main character, Annie, 38 weeks pregnant, and navigating her next steps as she survives a massive earthquake. Although not typically a fan of first-person perspectives, I appreciated and admired how we learn more about Annie as she talks to her unborn child. I was particularly impressed with Ariel Blake's narration, as TILT was an immersive read for me. Perhaps not for everyone (definitely check trigger warnings), but if you are a fan of disaster/apocalyptic survival stories, I think you would enjoy this!
Suzanne
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
These characters will stay with me a very long time. This is a book you can immerse yourself in and get lost in.
Betty
All This Could Be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan
Excellent book about an author on book tour who is being stalked. I couldn't figure out the ending until it happened. I highly recommend it.
Dee
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
I loved the way the protagonist revealed her real self through her letters and emails. This was a truly fine first novel from a promising new writer. I gave it five stars, which is very rare for me to do.
Joan
The Women by Kristin Hannah
This book gives a riveting glimpse of the horrors of war. The characters are memorable and mostly likeable.
Beverly
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
This is a story about family and loss and deathbed regrets. It talks about how the the irrational act of one woman changed the course of another person's life. A very good book about the challenges facing indigenous people. I read this book a couple of months ago and just reread it with my book club. Loved it both times!
Catherine
Murder on the Marlow Belle by Robert Thorogood
Judith, Suzie and Becks are back to solve another murder in the 4th book of the series. Once again, the intrepid trio happen across a murder, this time involving members of the local amateur theater club.
Susann
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen
Great writing but very sad.
Beth
The Seven Year Slip by Ashley Poston
I read this book for a book club meeting coming soon. Since the library sticker on the side reads “romance”, I expected the stereotypical romance: bombastic, flowery, nonsensical, subpar literature. I was very pleasantly surprised by this lovely, inventive story. I actually cared about the characters and wanted their relationship to last. Am I picking up a Harlequin at the nearest used book store, no. But the genre just grew in my estimation.
Jeanne
She Didn’t See It Coming by Shari Lapena
SHE DIDN'T SEE IT COMING by Shari Lapena is a well-written domestic thriller. It’s full of suspense and twists and turns and surprises at every turn as the police try to find out who brutally murdered a young mother. This was a bone-chilling intense read that kept me on the edge of my seat, wondering who the murderer was until the very end.
Elly
The Maid by Nita Prose
Written in simple innocent language, THE MAID follows the work week of an OCD and likely autistic young maid who discovers the body of an influential wealthy man. A mystery follows…
Vicki
Rosarita by Anita Desai
It was a short book and easy read. I thought it was okay. I got it for free or I probably wouldn’t have read it.
Kelly
Too Old for This by Samantha Downing
A little out there. Definitely not realistic, but that’s okay if you need a "murderful" distraction.
Rose
A Caribbean Heiress in Paris by Adriana Herrara
Luz Alana, a young heiress to a rum fortune travels from Santo Domingo to Paris with her two best friends. Her intention is to expand her rum business and definitely not fall in love. But, shortly after she arrives, she meets Evan Sinclair, Earl of Darnick, who is rearranging her rum display. She scolds him, but agrees to share the space with him. Evan is besotted by her. He is hurting from his breakup with Charlotte. Evan and his brother have plans to take down their father, but he is hiding this from Luz Alana. The only way Evan can get his inheritance is to marry, so he proposes to her, she agrees only if it is temporary, as she needs to run her business and not depend on a man. A romance with a bit of history. Steamy scenes.
Brian
House Rules by Mike Lawson
Awesome, engaging and downright believable.
Carole
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
Interesting characters living in a remote Antarctic Island. Many twists and turns to keep the reader in suspense. References to climate change in today's world.
Wanda
A Daughter's Guide to Mothers and Murder by Dianne Freeman
Fast, fun read. Mystery of a crime that was reopened. A husband and wife team, along with a mother who unravels the mystery. Cute story, characters all different personalities and a bit of fun and glamour with the storyline.
Ruthanne
Lilac Ink by Jean Grainger
This is the first book in the Knocknashee Story series and although I loved all Jean Grainger books and other series, this one was really dull. Told from the perspective of a young woman in Ireland who suffered with a history of polio and a difficult sister, the book really has little depth. Actually hard to believe this is the same author who wrote the other stories. I will not be buying Book Two.
Nancy
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Favorite book of the year so far!
Sandy
Heartwood by Amity Gaige
In the heart of the Maine woods an experienced Appalachian Trail hiker goes missing. She is 42 year old Valerie Gillis, who has vanished 200 miles from her final destination. This is a story of Valerie, Beverly and Lena and the ways their lives intersect.
Agnes
Maggie; or, A Man and a Woman Walk Into a Bar by Katie Yee
This debut novel centers on a young wife and mother who finds out her husband is having an affair with a woman named Maggie. Soon after, she learns she has breast cancer. In a comic twist, she decides to name her tumor Maggie. But this is not just a story about heartbreak. There’s humor and wisdom in the friendships we rely on and the bedtime tales we learned as kids. The narrative unfolds in parts over the next months as she’s trying to find her place in the world and reclaim a new life with her young children. Ms. Yee writes with heart about a woman facing her most challenging time.
Whitney
The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand
Loved this book. I listened to it on Audible and it's very well done. The perfect fall prep school vibes for September!
Whitney
The Unmaking of June Farrow by Adrienne Young
This book received much well deserved clout. I was intrigued and totally sucked into the Farrow family curse and how June will overcome its problems. Great book to curl up with this fall/winter.
Whitney
The Ghostwriter by Julie Clark
Julie is an excellent writer and I will pick up anything she produces. This had a very dark vibe and she did a great job balancing the father/daughter dysfunctional dynamic with a cold case murder mystery. The ending was a page-turner and fun to uncover. I loved reading this book!
Marcia
Here One Moment by Liane Moriarty
You have to read to the very end to answer all your questions. I don't always care for her books, but this kept me reading.
Marcia
Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely by Sarah McCoy
Very interesting read about how a star is born and the choices they make.
Marcia
Vianne by Joanne Harris
It's the prelude to CHOCOLAT. It was okay.
PJ
Harriet Tubman: Live in Concert by Bob the Drag Queen
I loved this book. I wasn't quite sure what to expect when I started it, but the book drew me in until the very end. It's about the past and how it affects the future and about new beginnings and choices. Imagine Harriet Tubman in today's New York City along with a few of her fellow friends from the abolitionist days two centuries ago. I hope there are more books to come from Bob the Drag Queen. This book was very well researched and thought out. Thank you for the great read.
Carol
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
This tragic and heart-wrenching novel will haunt you forever with its unforgettable characters, its perfectly built mystery and brilliant twist. It will make you reflect on nature's wildness, the fragility of our species, and the future of humanity. And yet it will leave you with a feeling of hope. Despite being broken, families help each other and stand together even when hitting their most painful rock bottom. It is a rare book that will haunt you forever with its extraordinary characters, perfectly driven mystery and brilliant twist. The author once again has left me, in the best possible way, with many moments of deep reflection, her premise being so timely given the crisis of climate change that is impacting our world.
Regina
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
One of my favorite books this year!
Sandra
Heartwood by Amity Gaige
If you like the outdoors and hiking, you will enjoy this book. Especially if you have ever hiked the Appalachian Trail. A woman decides to take a break from her nursing job to spend some time in Maine on the trail, but it turns into longer than a few days when she gets lost and has to survive for many days.
MARCILLE
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Sybil is a letter writer. Through her letters and emails to and from her we get the story of her life — the good, the bad and the ugly. Sybil does not hold back on her feelings. We read about the loss of her son, her estrangement with her daughter, her enjoyment of being courted by two men, her relationship with a lonely young boy and the discovery of a new family. I enjoyed getting to know and love Sybil through her writings. I highly recommend THE CORRESPONDENT. I rarely give a book five stars.
Luella
The Trial of Donald H. Rumsfield by William Cooper
Was an interesting read. A not true story. Will be enjoyed by those of like interests.
Donna
What About the Bodies by Ken Jaworowski
WHAT ABOUT THE BODIES by Ken Jaworowski is a gritty crime novel set in a rust-belt town in Pennsylvania. It follows the lives of three characters who are experiencing very different, yet unfortunate circumstances. Although I was interested in each of their stories, I was expecting them to converge in a more dramatic way. However, it felt more like reading three novellas. A well-written, suspenseful tale, just not what I was anticipating.
Ivy
Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton
A heartwarming story about Dalton's relationship with a hare. Her story will pull you into the tender moments she shared with the hare.
MaryAnn
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Intriguing to use an octopus to help someone on their healing journey. A grieving mother never feels whole (I know this unfortunately) after a loss of a child. Her discoveries and growth were heartwarming.
Ruthanne
Loyalty by Lisa Scottoline
A story of the beginning of the Mafia in Sicily. It follows the lives of very different characters, who eventually have a common thread. A very interesting read.
Peg
Flesh by David Szalay
Intriguing premise.
Jayme
The Thirty Names of Night by Zeyn Joukhadar
I enjoyed the lyrical writing style and the many layered themes of the book, but somehow I got lost in the dual timelines and felt like Nadir's feelings started to become repetitive. I will read more from this author though.
Pam
Just for the Summer by Abby Jimenez
Exciting and fun, yet serious and thought-provoking. Some triggers for some.
Joan
The Names by Florence Knapp
I loved this book! Such an interesting structure by a debut author. How much of our destiny is controlled by the name we are given at birth? We are introduced to three different scenarios. The writing is lyrical, there is no “waste” of words, and this book will give you lots to talk about!
Jeanne
Life, and Death, and Giants by Ron Rindo
LIFE, DEATH, AND GIANTS is an extraordinary novel that features a main character like no other in the writing world. Gabriel Fisher stands over eight feet tall, conquers the sports world in several fields and possesses a gift for communicating gently and lovingly with the natural world. Fisher will remain with the reader long after the last page has been reached. The setting is the Amish country of Wisconsin where Gabriel enters the world as his mother dies in childbirth. Because his mother has been shamed by the Amish community for a child out of wedlock, his older brother raises him until his own tragic death. Equally introspective, joyful, tragic and reflective, this novel will touch the reader and beg to be reread.
Jackie
The Violet Hour by Victoria Benton Frank
Victoria definitely captures her mom's writing style without missing a beat. I loved the story - definitely a different twist. A great beach read which I love as I spend 6 months of the year at the Outer Banks in NC. I have also visited Sullivan's Island in the past which makes it even sweeter. I plan to read Victoria's first book now. Her style of writing is relaxing and easy to take in.
Kristine
This Motherless Land by Nikki May
What a pleasant surprise! Now I’d like to read Manchester Park to see where the similarities are in the retelling! I loved Funke/Kate/Funke and Liv’s story! Great character development as I was rooting for both these women throughout! I was grieving for Lizzie by the end too! I found the parts in Nigeria fascinating! I read that the author was raised there so I’m sure it was very realistic. I think this was the author’s second book; I need to pick up her debut and then look forward to more!
MH
You Belong Here by Megan Miranda
Twenty years ago, there had been a fire at a college that killed two men. The daughter of two professors is suspected of knowing where her roommate disappeared to and she leaves school for Paris. Now her daughter decides to go to school there and suddenly disappears. Things escalate, and the past comes back to play a part.
Susan
The Compound by Aisling Rawle
Storyline pulls you through. Characters are young.
Joan
The Women by Kristin Hannah
I am telling lots of friends to read THE WOMEN!
Meredith
The Tortoise’s Tale by Kendra Coulter
Loved! Very interesting storytelling!
Sheila
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
It was a fun nostalgic romp through the 1950s. I particularly enjoyed the structure the author used, getting to know one of the characters at a time. It all came together beautifully in the end.
Muriel
The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline
This Scottoline book had a little different twist in that it contained some mysticism, ESP or whatever you want to term it. This was not out of the realm of possibility since some people seem to be able to tune into certain parts of their brains better than others to connect to other people and what is happening to them. This book kept me turning the pages rapidly to see if Julia would find her birth mother, husband’s killer, why she was being followed, and reasons for mysterious happenings at the villa she inherited. Lisa moved the plot along well with realistic conversations and interesting descriptions of places in Italy. Julia was a likable character whom the reader wanted to succeed and stay out of danger.
Lois
The Woman in the Window by A. J. Finn
An agoraphobic child psychologist who keeps tabs on the family across the street through the windows of her New York City home. Her life changes completely when she observes a brutal crime in the neighboring house. The story seems to move slowly, but the reader is drawn into the intense twists and turns, and then the unexpected ending explains everything.
Linda
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Our book club book for September, we all loved this book based on the diaries of a Maine midwife in 1789. We highly recommend it.
Edith
Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate
Did not hold my interest. The way it was written with all the changes in the years and names of the characters was so confusing.
Lynda
Mind Games by Nora Roberts
The title, MIND GAMES, is because the two main characters are both psychic. While Thea uses her gift for good purposes, the enemy, Ray Riggs, who murdered her parents schemes to punish her for sending him to jail. This is my first Nora Roberts thriller and I liked it!
Gabriel
Can You Say My Name Again by Nadia Nova
This was a nice, simple slice-of-life moment between two trans girls. It took me a minute to get used to the anxious stream-of-consciousness style, but I settled into it. I will forever be unable to understand relationships that kick into high gear this fast; how do you feel this much this fast? But I could still appreciate that Laina and Pisti did have a cute trans for trans thing going. I liked what Pisti had to say about how being with another trans woman made transition seem so much less daunting. There was someone who’d been through it all and knew what kind of support she needed. And, of course, she would try to return the support when Laina was struggling with her mental health.
Debbie
Desolation Mountain by William Kent Krueger
So many events in the Cork O’Connor series remind me of current events: the fight of industry and conservation, the plight of ethnic groups, and the power of the government. In this story, a senator’s plane crashes in a mountainous region of Minnesota, but government officials and secret groups grab control of the recovery of the wreckage site. Visions of Stephen play into the narrative of the crash and the future of Henry. So many fine individuals die due to knowing too many secrets or disagreeing with the government’s agenda. A new character, Winston, enters the series. Could he possibly fall under the guidance of Stephen? As usual, William Kent Krueger presents an interesting map of the county and the people of Aurora.
Rachel
The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny
This is a worthy addition to the Gamache series. Once again Gamache and his team race to save Montreal from certain doom. This time it's the water supply threatened. While Three Pines is on the sidelines, only used as a safe place for the family, team members go to the U.S., Rome and France, as well as multiple sites in Canada. The intrepid reader is the readied for the next adventure called the BLACK WOLF.
Sandy
Collision of Lies by Tom Threadgill
Three years ago, a collision between a fast-moving train and a bus full of kids led to grief for all the parents. But a fresh clue leads police detective Amara Alverez to the conclusion that one of the children may still be alive. She will do everything in her power to bring him home. Very good story.
Elizabeth
The Swans of Fifth Avenue by Melanie Benjamin
I found the lives of these "swans" very superficial and had a hard time caring about them. The details about Truman Capote were interesting though.
Kathy
The Seed Keeper by Diane Wilson
A beautiful story of an American Indian family’s desire to preserve their traditions; especially the daughter, who was taken from her family as a child. This is a story that will stay with you, giving you much food for thought about the Indian culture.
Norma
The Girl Behind the Gates by Brenda Davies
1939: Nora Jennings, 17 years old, unmarried, learns she is pregnant. She attempts unsuccessfully to end the pregnancy, two offences that are considered criminal and morally unacceptable at the time. She is labeled a ‘moral defective’ and under the Mental Deficiency Act, she is forced to leave her family and life as she knows it to be sent to Hillinghurst. There she stays for nearly 50 years and experiences loss, isolation, dominance, abuse and cruelty. 1981: Dr Janet Humphreys becomes her saving grace as the new psychiatrist at Hillinghurst. Through trust and compassion, Nora learns slowly to accept her past and embrace the future. This is a heartbreaking true story of a young girl.
Pam
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Beautifully written with poignancy and respect for its main character, a woman in her 70s. She's struggling with health issues, guilt, and is unsure how to move forward in a meaningful way while life throws her various lifelines.
Donna
What I Ate in One Year by Stanley Tucci
The first few chapters of this book are included in the eBook version of Stanley Tucci’s TASTE. After reading those chapters, I decided to read the rest of the book. The focus of the book is on the meals he ate, where he ate them, and with whom. Some were great, some were not. He also talks about what is going on in his life throughout the year. Thoroughly enjoyable.
Cynthia
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
An isolated mansion that was the site of multiple past murders provides an eerie setting to a new mysterious death and strange events. This is a wonderfully suspenseful novel that keeps you turning the pages as you try to determine the killer as well as puzzle over who can be trusted to be telling the truth.
Francisca
The Daisy Children by Sofia Grant
I would really have liked to learn more about the actual explosion in 1937 that flattened the New London School and killed nearly 300 people (mostly children). But instead, this is a typical historical fiction/family secrets/dual (or triple) timeline story.
Richard N B
Jaws by Peter Benchley
A great white shark is terrorizing the residents of a Long Island community that relies on summer visitors for its economic health. Political concerns seem to have sharper teeth than the great white, however. I’ve read it three times previously; I listened to the audio this time around. I was struck by how long it takes for the shark hunt to happen, and how much time is spent on the political and marital difficulties that Sheriff Brody has to navigate before he even gets out on the water. I think the movie was much better.
Sandy
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
One of the best books I have read in a long time. Beth and her husband Frank are happily married, but their happiness relies on the past staying buried. But when Beth's brother-in-law shoots a dog going after their sheep, Beth doesn't realize the gunshot will alter the course of their lives.
Ruthanne
The Many Mothers of Dolores Moore by Anika Fajardo
I was fortunate to win an advanced copy of this book and thoroughly enjoyed it. I found the author's style easy to read with good character and storyline development. The main character is dealing with loss and struggling to learn about her past and future direction in her life. Pick this one up. You won't be sorry. I look forward to this new author's next book.
CAROL
North Woods by Daniel Mason
I enjoyed the writing and the lush descriptions of the land and countryside.
Liz
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
This historical fiction is set in Maine in 1789. The book centers around the life of a midwife, Martha Ballard. Over the course of one year, the story follows the finding of a body in the Kennebec River and the charge of rape against two men, one a prominent citizen and judge. Martha records every birth, death and crime that happens in the small close knit community of Hallowell. A local physician challenges her assessment that the body that was found was caused by murder. She must now investigate on her own. The diary she keeps will have dire effects on the trials.
Mary
The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins
This book was difficult to put down. Not too many characters, which allows the reader to feel they get to know them...or do they? You won't know until the last pages and even then you will find yourself going back to see why you did not figure it out earlier.
Sean
The Inside Ring by Mike Lawson
Mike Lawson tells the tale of DC "fixer", Joe DeMarco, who gets thrust into a Presidential assassination investigation. DeMarco is super likeable, not overly "alpha", borderline super-powered, etc. He's fallible and makes mistakes. He's a well written character with a solid supporting cast. I was pleasantly surprised. The situation takes unexpected twists and if not for a ending that was little too hinky, it would have been scored even higher. Overall, a very good action thriller and I'm looking for more from this author.
Rose
The Next Mrs. Parrish by Liv Constantine
Jackson is in jail for tax evasion. His seond wife, Amber, is getting tired of having to sell assets to live the life she has gotten used to living. After a visit to Jackson in prison, she tells him she is selling their boat. Because of his reaction, she realizes that he is hiding something on the boat. When she discovers a treasure, she cashes in. Jackson gets released, and makes a deal with Amber. He will get his first wife Daphne back, get his children back, and divorce Amber, and they will both benefit from the treasure. However, there are some unexpected twists and others who want the money. Plus, there is Amber's past, having been married to a wealthy older man, who died while hunting with her. Suspicious! Liked the ending!
Rose
The Lost Baker of Vienna by Sharon Kurtzman
The author uses some of her own family story to build this fictional tale of a female journalist, Zoe, searching for information on her family's past after her grandfather's death. When a famous baker, Henri Martin, agrees to meet with her in Austria to share information about her family, she wants to go, but doesn't know how to pay for the trip. Her editor agrees to pay her expenses if she can get a story from the baker. But, when she arrives, she must sign a NDA to keep his story secret. Reluctantly, she agrees, but her editor keeps pushing. As the story unfolds, she learns so much more than she expected about the dangers her family faced, the risks they took, and how the life of the baker was connected to hers. A heartfelt story.
Rose
The Tenant by Frieda McFadden
Frieda McFadden's books are quick, easy reads. Don't expect a deep literary novel, but instead a guilty pleasure. All the characters are not what you might think at the onset. In this novel, Blake and Krista are engaged. When Blake loses his VP job, they realize they need to take on a tenant to help with expenses. At first, Whitney seems perfect. However, Blake starts getting annoyed with every little thing Whitney does. When he tells Krista that Whitney needs to go, Krista balks. But, the situation is becoming untenable. Then, the twist happens. I didn't see it coming, but having read other McFadden books, I should have. An easy read.
Rose
The Truth About the Devlins by Lisa Scottoline
T..J. Devlin is a recovering alcoholic and the black sheep of his family. When his brother, John, a successful lawyer, asks for T..J.'s help to get rid of a man's body - after John murdered him, T. J. is willing to help. But, there is no body! John then tells the family that the reason they left their dad's party was because T. J. relapsed and is drinking again, deflecting the blame and disappointment of the family to T. J. As T. J. tries to understand what happened to the "dead" man, he is sucked into finding out some secrets about his family. He needs to protect them, but at what cost? Lisa Scottoline always writes an intriguing, suspenseful legal thriller. This didn't disappoint.
Sue Em
We Are All Guilty Here by Karin Slaughter
New series for Slaughter, and this kicks off with a bang with two teenage girls going missing and all that is left are their bicycles. Set in a small Georgia town where your last name almost determines your future. The interplay between the characters, especially the cops, is achingly real.
Rose
Kill Your Darlings by Peter Swanson
A unique telling of a marriage between two people, Wendy and Thom, who have grown weary of each other, but can't divorce because of a shared secret. In order to learn this secret, the story goes back in time unraveling the marriage all the way to their connection as 8th graders. It shows the breakdown of trust and the disillusionment of the couple as they go through life. Clever.
Rose
Rage by Linda Castillo
I really love the Kate Burkholder series, and after so many books I really feel like I know the characters well. I enjoy revisiting the town of Painters Mill, OH and the crimes and murders that happen, and I especially enjoy Kate solving the mysteries. This one has Kate's crew investigating what happened to the man whose body was found in pieces, and why. Kate's life is in danger as she investigates this crime. What is surprising is the horrible secret she uncovers. I also love how Kate and her husband, John Tomasetti, rely on and support each other in work and personally.
Terry
The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware
Interesting but not as good as some of her other books.
Luella
Winter Prey by John Sandford
A great suspense novel. Has many twists and turns and multiple suspects. One of the best in the Prey series.
Rose
Let Them Stare by Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy
This book was NOT for me. It is about a young gay man, Sully, who loses his dream internship and his plans are upended. He then receives a handbag - that is haunted. The ghost, Rufus, that comes out tells him about a time where gay men were persecuted, and how his relationship was hidden. Rufus was a drag performer, but doesn't remember how he died. Sully decides to help him discover this info. Sully learns about his town, his friends, and his family in this book. It just didn't resonate with me, but I am sure that there is an audience for this.
Amy
Polar Vortex: A Family Memoir by Denise Dorrance
I'm reading this book for my local library's book club. POLAR VORTEX: A FAMILY MEMOIR is a heartfelt mix of humor and grief as Denise Dorrance returns to Iowa to care for her aging mother. The loose illustrations and candid storytelling capture the chaos of family, dementia, and homecoming without sugarcoating. It’s raw, funny in places, and moving - perfect if you want something honest about the messiness of caring for a parent.
Rose
Extraordinary True Stories of Survival in Burma WW2 by Elizabeth Tebby Germaine
Many books are written about WWII in Europe, but I haven't read too many about the war in Asia. Using letters and journals from a captain, a doctor, and others, the author has compiled accounts of the harrowing journey across mountains and raging rivers to escape the Japanese when they invaded Burma. Recounting the journey, the author shares these stories, along with many pictures of the terrain, emphasizing the danger of the trek. I enjoyed reading about how they received help from the locals and even the animals in making the journey. I also liked how one of the men didn't know where his wife and family were, and longed for communication from them. This put a very human picture on the trauma of war and the struggles of the military.
Henna
Drinking Games by Sarah Levy
Pretty easy read. A lot of jumping timelines, so that made events a little unclear. Overall, a decent book about addiction and sobriety.
Henna
The Secret Life of Lobsters by Trevor Corson
I loved this! Corson is amazing.
Henna
Fetishized by Kaila Yu
A brave book about an important topic. Yu has certainly gone through her share of targeting and suffering due to yellow fever. The problem is that the author didn't separate her prior experiences from the voice of her current self, constantly interjecting with her thoughts. It would've been a more engaging read if she just told her story. There's a lot of blame and whining. She muddled the argument against Asian fetishization, recycling terminology (subordination, asiaphile, fetish) ad nauseum. I'm left thinking that any non-Asian person with an Asian wife, girlfriend, or partner is an Asiaphile, and that's bad. It's too basic. Ultimately, the book falls short as both a memoir and a manifesto against the objectification of women.
Henna
All the Way to the River by Elizabeth Gilbert
This book is simply incoherent. I enjoyed EAT, PRAY, LOVE and COMMITTED. Certainly, I rolled my eyes at some parts, but those two memoirs are solid. The writing in ALL THE WAY TO THE RIVER seems unhinged.
Rose
SINE QUA NON: A Journal of Creative Writing by Talion Publishing (Author), Raúl Calvoz (Editor, Introduction), Janelle Gray (Editor), Matthew W Baker (Editor), Carmon Brandow
When I was in college, one of the courses I found most difficult was Creative Writing. I just don't have the skills to be a writer of short stories, essays, or poetry. I have a lot of respect for those that do. In this journal, Part 1 reads a bit like a textbook, with essays that compare and contrast writings of many famous writers on a variety of topics, including mystery, blackness, craft. Part 2 is filled with essays and poetry winners and runner-up entries on various topics. I enjoyed both parts for different reasons. I learned a great deal from Part 1, and enjoyed reading the creativity of Part 2.
Annmarie
The Guest Cottage by Lori Foster
I enjoyed this book so much, one of my favorites of Lori Foster's. Strong characters and beautiful story.
Barbara
All Summer Long by Dorothea Benton Frank
Found a copy of a DBF I had not read so opened it eagerly. Uh, so disappointed. Just was not up to her usual endearing style. Setting(s) atypical, characters unsympathetic, too much "lifestyle" included but little depth. And confusing switching of viewpoints. Finished it out of loyalty to DBF but almost did not. I would say to her, keep trying, but sadly, she has passed. Guess I'll just reread some of her others.
Rose
The Dog Walker: Secrets by D. L. Maddox
Jane works as a dog walker, but has a secret past. When she is hired by the very wealthy Loomis family to care for Fable on their estate, Fable is reluctant to warm to Jane. However, Jane keeps working to gain the dog's trust. Graham, the Loomis matriarch's grandson, takes an interest in Jane. But, Jane keeps getting warnings to stay away from the family. With the help of her friend, R, Jane tries to determine what is happening with the Loomis family, the strange uncle Ben, and the women who were supposedly tortured. A tense thriller which keeps you guessing who are the good ones and who aren't. There are more Jane the Dog Walker books coming in the series - I look forward to reading them.
Rose
Forget Me Not by Stacy Willingham
Claire has never gotten over the disappearance of her older sister, Natalie, 22 years earlier. Now, with her journalism career in NYC at a crossroads, and with her mother injured from a recent fall, Claire heads home to SC to be with her mother. But, the atmosphere is tense, so Claire heads to nearby Galloway farm where she remembers Natalie going. She gets hired by the owners to work there and is offered a room as well. Claire notices some strange things at the farm and hears about more missing women in the area. As she investigates, she discovers the truth about her family and the owners of the farm. A solid psychological thriller, but one where you find yourself saying to the main character -- "don't go there!!!"
Marianne
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
A wonderful read with superb writing. I felt the author held true through the entire book.
Stacy
Death of the Author by Nnedi Okorafor
Layered story of reality and fiction with a badass handicapable narrator.
Betty Jo
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
I am giving 3 stars, because I realize it’s a good book in its genre, but I felt like a dummy. It is not my genre. I listened to the audio which let me enjoy the sheet storytelling aspect of this science fiction novel. My book club selection for September was an overall a hit for our members. I am looking forward to the movie next spring and proud to say I have read the book first!
Luella
Dear New York by Brandon Stanton
Unique book with stunning photographs accompanied by quotes and short stories of the people pictured.
Carolyn
Sharp Force by Patricia Cornwell
Cornwell is back to her original witty, intriguing self in Kay Scarpetta’s newest outing. Cornwell throws out tidbits that could be red herrings but in the end come together to create a story that sucks you in and leaves you satisfied with the outcome. There are lots of forays into new technologies giving just enough background to seem plausible yet enough above our heads to keep us reaching to figure out how they tie into Kay’s life and in solving the forensic death. Throw in a nearby mental health facility, niece Lucy’s continued relationship threads, and a monkey research center and you will be scratching your head as it comes together. Scarpetta fans will be pleased with this story.
Rose
An Event in Autumn by Henning Mankell
Originally written as a promotion to get Hollanders interested in reading, this was republished years later as an installment in the Kurt Wallander series. After a long career, Inspector Kurt Wallander is looking for a peaceful place to live. He has long admired a farmhouse, but when he visits the property, he stumbles over something in the garden. He makes an offer on the house, but the stumble nags at him. He inspects the area and realizes that there was a hand pushing up from the ground which caused the stumble. Now, he has to bring in the police and determine if there are skeletal remains in the ground, and if was it a murder. This was my first Wallander book, and I will read more. I liked the way the story evolved and the reveal.
Rose
Limelight by Amy Poeppel
Moving from Dallas to NYC is a cultural shock for Allison and her family. Her daughter Charlotte is a star student entering her senior year, and her other two children, Jack and Megan, along with her husband, are not entirely on board with the move. Realizing they can't afford the glamorous brownstones or large apartments, she is a bit flustered. One day, she hits a BMW owned by a teenager, Carter Reid, who is a pop star. He is sullen, acts inappropriately. Allison finagles herself into a job working for Carter, and hopes to steer him to a successful Broadway debut in the remake of "Limelight". However, Carter's attitude doesn't make this easy. Allison must rely on various methods to break through his toughness. Cute, but not great for me.
Rose
Murder Takes a Vacation by Laura Lippman
Laura Lippman writes mysteries primarily set in and around my hometown, Baltimore. I was so pleased to see my high school highlighted in this book! This book, however, primarily takes place in Europe. Muriel Blossom has found some new wealth after finding a winning lottery ticket. This new status is foreign to her, but she is trying to use some of the money to have some fun. Planning to meet her friend for a cruise on the Seine, Muriel meets a man in the airport who offers to help her navigate her way. He helps her on the plane and is later found dead. On the train to Paris and on the ship, Muriel recognizes some characters that she doesn't fully trust. She learns that a piece of art is missing and she is in the middle of it. Fun!
Kimberley
The Hitchcock Hotel by Stephanie Wrobel
This mystery takes some time to unravel as the reader slowly discovers if someone did something.
A cast of characters is tormented with guilt for their various antics in college. Years later, they reunite with an invite to a Hitchcock-themed hotel. In college, the group shared their enjoyment of Hitchcock movies and similar genre, but this may be the group’s demise. A perfect Halloween season read.
Beth
The Cold Millions by Jess Walter
While I disliked THE COLD MILLIONS before I liked it, simply because I was bored by the first part of it, all in all, I appreciate it and am glad I read it. It is historical fiction about characters fighting for and against unionization, mostly in Washington state, during the early 20th century and the coming awareness of a 17-year-old boy who becomes involved. Rye and his older brother, Gig, are hobos in 1909, tramping around the country looking for work. When they are in Spokane, Gig sides himself with the unionists while Rye couldn't care less. But when Gig gets in trouble, Rye does care. He thinks help will come from a very rich non-union man. In spite of myself, I enjoyed seeing how and why Rye becomes a union man.
Lesley
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
A riveting story about the first NASA women astronauts and their travel to space. The main characters, Joan and Vanessa, are such likeable characters and their love story is beautiful to follow. My only complaint was the number of characters. I think there could have been less, but you be the judge!
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
Fox by Joyce Carol Oates
I can only hope I have such a productive career and life as Joyce Carol Oates has had. This novel was a wonderful work of fiction. There are few authors that can be so descriptive so you feel like you are experiencing the book in real-time. This is a book where you truly get your money’s worth. Coming in at 651 pages, this is a psychological thriller dealing with some really tough topics - pedophilia, complex family relationships, alcoholism. The novel takes the reader through a police investigation and provides a detailed look at the main characters who are somehow involved either directly or indirectly in this crime. I enjoyed the book.
Christina
The Summer That Changed Everything by Brenda Novak
Overall, I enjoyed this book. I thought the storyline was good. This book was more mystery than romance but a good summertime read.
Christina
Shred Sisters by Betsy Lerner
This was a quick read, but I enjoyed the story. It is a sad tale of a younger sister and her family dealing with her older sister’s mental illness and the devastating consequences to all of their family.
Christina
Spectacular Things by Beck Dorey-Stein
I really enjoyed this book of two sisters growing up and navigating their relationship in adulthood. It was well written and the characters were well developed.
Christina
The Letter Carrier by Francesca Gianonne
This was a good read which detailed the life of a women in the 1930s and 1940s in Italy who strives for independence in her life. She has a complex relationship with her husband and brother, and takes a job as a letter carrier. I enjoyed this book and the relationships she develops in the small Italian town.
Christina
The Harvey Girls by Juliette Fay
This was a well-written historical fiction book describing a group of young women who worked in restaurants along the train rail lines in the U.S. in the 1920s. The book describes the relationship between two young women and their families. It was an interesting read. If you enjoy historical fiction with a little romance you will enjoy this book.
Rose
Under the Stars by Beatriz Williams
There are multiple storylines in this book. 1846 - Providence Dare is fleeing a relationship with painter, Henry Irving, who was found dead. An investigator is questioning her and she is trying to escape with her life and some valuable paintings. 2024 - Mother Meredith and daughter Audrey have a fraught relationship. Her mother is a famous actress but an alcoholic. Audrey is a chef, but her husband stole millions, ruining her business. Now Audrey is tasked with returning to Winthrop Island to care for her mother. Audrey finds a chest belonging to her father, containing old paintings. As she and Sedge Peabody, their neighbor, research the art, they uncover secrets and begin to learn to trust. This book could have been 100 pages shorter.
Rose
Pretty Revenge by Emily Liebert
When they were teens, Kerrie and Jordan had been friends. That is, until Jordan ruined her life. Kerrie was living with her Nana after her parents died. But, that night, her Nana died and Kerrie blames Jordan for her death. Now, 18 years later, Jordan is Jordana and owns a wedding planner business in NY, living with her wealthy husband. When Kerrie sees her on TV, a plan comes to mind, Kerrie will get her revenge. So, Kerrie becomes Olivia and gets hired by Jordana, and plans to ruin her life. Not the expected psychological thriller, but rather a beach read of pretty revenge.
Liz
Before We Say Goodbye by Boo Walker
This story follows the life of Otis Till from the time of Woodstock to many years later. At Woodstock he meets his soulmate and the love of his life. Together they build a life together focusing on wine making. Of course there are ups and downs, as in any marriage, but their love holds true. The characters have tremendous growth and the story is well told. I did not realize it was part of a trilogy, but it reads superbly as a stand-alone novel. Thanks to NetGalley for this amazing audiobook.
Debbie
Fox Creek by William Kent Krueger
A hardened look at the plight of the Indians in America and Canada. The Indians constantly fight over land and water and keeping the environment pristine. In this installment, Henry, Rainy, and Dolores run for their lives from four men determined to kill Henry and Rainy, and capture Dolores. May, a supposedly quiet month, blasts the Northwoods with snow and wind, which helps Henry, Rainy, and Dolores evade capture. But Henry is over one hundred years old, can he survive this grueling adventure? Krueger presents a detailed story of the journey in the wilderness and all the tools of survival for the hunted and the hunters. So many little details emerge in this journey against time and weather.
Rose
Give Me Your Hand by Megan Abbott
Sometimes a psychological thriller leaves me wondering what really happened. This one is like that. Kit and Diane met at a camp, and Kit told some girls a secret. Now, in their senior year of high school, the two teenage girls are reunited and are the brightest in their class. Diane is a bit smarter. When Diane tells Kit her secret, they are tied together forever. Years later, the two women are competing for a spot on Dr. Severin's team. Kit exposes Diane's secret to another ambitious person, and everything is now in danger of breaking open and destroying the women. The reveal about Kit's secret and how it related to Diane's secret was surprising.
Tonya
Heart the Lover by Lily King
Excellent.
Sandy
Rage by Linda Castillo
Young Amish people keep turning up murdered, and Chief of Police Kate Burkholder is determined to find the killer or killers. It's a very brutal and entertaining story.
