Rose
Bone by Yrsa Daley-Ward
This is a book of poetry with a few short essays scattered among the poems. It is sad and depressing, reflecting the author coming to terms with sexual relationships, her missing her brother and her mother, and the feelings about her father's death. I found it to be a difficult book to read as it was very sorrowful. It also exposed the treatment and abuse she endured.
Rose
Stephen Colbert's Midnight Confessions by Stephen Colbert, The Staff of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, et al.
I typically love Stephen Colbert and think he is the most intelligent late night talk show host. However, this book, which is meant to be comical, fell short for me. I think I chuckled once or twice while reading the "confessions". It is a light book, an easy read, but I am glad I didn't spend money on it. (Love the library!)
Jeanne
Otherwise Engaged by Susan Mallery
OTHERWISE ENGAGED by Susan Mallery is an entertaining story about how complicated mother/daughter relationships can be. It focuses on two mothers and their twenty-four-year-old daughters and all the emotions that surface when some serious life issues are brought to the surface when the young women are twenty four years old. I thought this was a well-written, captivating story that held my interest and heartstrings from beginning to end. The author’s writing style is one I enjoy reading and her character development was very good.
Nancy
Evensong by Stewart O’Nan
I loved this novel about aging women who face the same realities as I do. Trouble sleeping. Frustration at the self-checkout line. An address book with names crossed out. Confounded by an altered political landscape. Life with a dog who stares until you wake up, then whimpers and runs to the door, only to return with a frozen ‘poopsicle’. The women formed a club to care for each other in their golden years, helping each other when in need. Their lives and concerns are ordinary. Injury, loss of a spouse, caring for a friend’s pet, singing in the church choir. They grapple with issues I understand: how do I spend the last of my days with meaning and consequence? Lovely, funny, and heartwarming, this book left me with heartache and hope.
Susan
Mona’s Eyes by Thomas Schlesser
I enjoyed MONA'S EYES because of the art history lesson. I enjoy going to art museums but I don’t understand the symbolism. The lessons the grandfather shared with his granddaughter provided me with things to look for in paintings. I enjoyed the backstory and learning about the family. The grandfather used a lot of really big words which he didn’t explain. I wondered how or if his granddaughter understood them. I have recommended MONA'S EYES to fellow readers.
Lucy
An Inconvenient Wife by Megan Chance
Interesting story about mental health in the late 1800s.
Wendellyn
How to Read a Book by Monica Wood
Everyone in my book club loved this book, including me.
Andrea
Jamaica Inn by Daphne du Maurier
Nearly 90 years old! Very atmospheric and dark.
Jane
Sonora by Jenni L. Walsh
If you like horses, diving, and carnival shows, this book is for you (and for me for that matter). Based on a true story of a woman diver, set in 1923 when Sonora's (who's 19) mother sees an ad which she thought she might be interested in because she likes horses and likes to swim. It also involves travel. Sonora is thinking, "What do horses have to do with this carnival/circus in this job? "The ad says this woman should be pretty. I guess for public appeal. When she sees the horse diving show, she's fascinated and wants this job. She meets with Doc Carver, who's a stubborn and cantankerous man in every way, but he finds his way into Sonora's heart since her daddy never came back from the war - he found a new family there.
Mary Ann
The Irish Goodbye by Heather Aimee O'Neill
This book was outstanding!!
Wanda
Ward D by Freida McFadden
Completely compelling read!! Could not put this book down - constant intrigue on what is going to happen next!! Great thriller!!
Pam
Heart the Lover by Lily King
A very moving story of love and loss.
Michelle
Family of Spies by Christine Kuehn
The never-told story of German spies embedded in Hawaii during WWII, written by a descendant of the family who set The Day of Infamy into motion.
Rosa
King of Ashes by S. A. Cosby
This was a thriller that had me at the edge of my seat, reading through the night. Roman Carruthers comes home to Jefferson, Virginia after receiving a call that his father is in a coma after an "accident." He then learns that his younger brother Dante is in deep trouble with a gang and fears for his life. Meanwhile, their sister Neveah is keeping the family business, a crematory, going while their father is in the hospital. Roman tries to fix Dante's problem and the story takes off at breakneck speed. Cosby's writing style is smart and witty, and I couldn't put this book down. Highly recommend.
Barb
Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston
ANATOMY OF AN ALIBI is another smart, twisty thriller from Ashley Elston. She has a real talent for building tension in seemingly ordinary moments - and before you know it, you’re pulled into a layered web of secrets and shifting truths. I loved the way this story unfolds piece by piece, revealing just enough to keep me curious while still holding back the bigger shocks for later. And yes - there is a great twist! This was a ARC, and will be released Jan 2026. A compelling, well-crafted read that kept me turning pages.
Vesna
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
This was a big let down, so much buzz around this book; I just can't understand why. I had no connection to any of the characters and just could not picture the setting - was it a frozen isolated place or full of fauna and trees? The whales, seals, etc. I can understand, but the tunnels and underground seed storage was out of my loop. I felt I was reading a fever dream, but I guess that is part of the appeal. Not for me. On to the next book...
Corinne
What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown
WHAT KIND OF PARADISE really moved me because the main character, Jane, felt so real - I loved watching her slowly figure out her father’s reasons for keeping her isolated from the world. The story made me think a lot about family, trust, and how hard it can be to protect the people you love in a world changing so quickly, especially with technology and AI taking over. I liked how the book made me question what’s true, whose side I should be on, and how everyone’s actions have complicated reasons behind them.
MH
The Lost Story of Eva Fuentes by Chanel Cleeton
While the literary device of two time periods (this novel has three) is getting a little tiresome, the device paired well with this story. There are at least two people who want the lost novel, and two people—who used to be married—who are hired to find it. Is the book worth murdering for? What could be in it that is so explosive? In the background is Fidel Castro and his restrictive regime, which includes book burning.
Kaathryn
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Love the format of letters. I had lots of pen pals from age 12. This past week, after I finished the book, I sat reading 125 letters saved from my time in college. My mom, sisters, friends wrote as the 1960s didn't see any electronics. What a time capsule of those years and I learned so much about small town Ohio and activities after I left home. I am presenting this book at club in April and can't wait to hear everyone's reactions!
Linda
Three O’Clock in the Morning by Gianrico Carofigilio
3.5 stars. I am very partial to quiet novels, and this is definitely one of them. What I loved: during a son’s medical crisis, a father and son reconnect, and the son begins to see his father in a different way. Antonio is diagnosed with epilepsy during a time when that was considered shameful and kept a secret. The story begins in Italy, but they travel to France to find a cure. His parents are divorced, and he blames his father for leaving the family, but during this trip, Antonio talks with his dad as he never has before and begins to reconnect with him. What slowed down the story: tales about mathematicians, logisticians, philosophers, literary authors and poets. At its heart it is a father-son heartfelt story.
Lillian
Intermezzo by Sally Rooney
Not one of her best, seemed to be forcing things.
Chris
Kate & Frida by Kim Fay
Important theme; light tone. The power of friendship.
Betty Jo
Lonesome Dove by Larry McMurtry
A gentleman in my book club selected LONESOME DOVE. I have not seen the mini series. The size of this novel was daunting, but I can see why it won the Pulitzer Prize. Fantastic characters and an epic American story. This was a great throwback!
Luella
Inside the Cartel by Martin Suarez
An amazing true story of an FBI agent who went undercover and was able to infiltrate the drug cartel. The sacrifices of and by his family and himself proves his dedication to country and took extreme courage.
Sandy
The Boyfriend by Freida McFadden
I love all of her books. Always a surprise ending!!
Janet
Christmas in Peachtree Bluff by Kristy Woodson Harvey
A little different Christmas story that doesn't revolve around the usual festivities related to snow.
Vicki
Punished by Ann-Helen Laestadius
Interesting book. I did not know about the Swedish children of reindeer herders being taken from their families and put in schools forcing them not to speak their language (Sami) and learning Swedish and a different way of life.
Debbie
Twice by Mitch Albom
Intriguing, original and interesting.
Niki
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Enjoyed how a character becomes known to the reader through the letters she writes. Interesting, engaging and a really good read.
Niki
Twice by Mitch Albom
So interesting to read when, where, why changes were made. One wonders if the character lost sense of what “real” life was all about.
Lori
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict
Interesting story about the Morgan Library librarian. Found the tone of the story a little off-putting at times. Main character sometimes seemed a little full of herself.
Debbie
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen
A beautifully-written story about an elderly man, Bo, who, after his wife is moved to a nursing home because she has dementia, struggles with the fact that he is getting weaker and less able to care for himself, and his annoyance with the fact that his son and his carers think they know what is best for him and act without even consulting him. The story is told, primarily, through Bo's mental conversations with his wife as he tells her what is happening to him and reminisces about his boyhood, their life together, his love for his son and granddaughter and his hope that he and his son can reconcile their differences. As we are lucky enough to reach old age, we will not be happy when our family decides that we can't decide for ourselves.
SUZANNE
Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell
A terrific retelling of Shakespeare's Hamlet. The character study grabbed me from the onset - this book waited 5 years for me to pick it up, because it hits the movie theaters next month. And wow, nothing like I would've imagined! So innovative and slyly manipulating. That's what the gifted Ms. O'Farrell delivers during the Renaissance England era.
Beth
The Names by Florence Knapp
This book used such an interesting concept! A mother needs to register her son's birth. Her husband wants her to name him Gordon, after himself and a long string of Gordons. Her 9-year-old daughter wants to name the boy Bear and she chooses Julian, which means sky father, in an attempt to appease her abusive husband while not saddling her son with the name of an abuser. The story then goes off to explore the lives of this family in three different scenarios - if the boy is named Bea, or Julian or Gordon. Their lives are radically different in each story. I found this plot device really interesting and felt very invested in each story.
Joan
Compromising Positions by Susan Isaacs
I really like this author. She gives just the right amount of detail. I plan to read more of her novels.
Jan
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult
Good story. Lots of characters who share their side of the story. Court drama.
Sandra K.
When the World Fell Silent by Donna Jones Alward
I found this book about the Halifax Explosion in 1917 to be an easy read. However, I found that the author’s romance writer roots showed, and the book was top-heavy in soul searching.
Nonie
Regretting You by Colleen Hoover
Not her best. Was predictable. The ending, though, was good.
Teresa
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Hands down, the best book I’ve read this year.
Abby
Culpability by Bruce Holsinger
This is a very modern book with many themes. A family is in a car accident while in an automatic driving car, and there are fatalities. Who is at fault? All five family members have different takes on what happened and who/what they believe is to blame. Reads almost like a thriller.
Mindy
The Leavers by Lisa Ko
A really good story about an immigrant Chinese mother and her son who was American born. She was deported back to China and he was adopted by an American couple. He tried to fit into his new life but never really does. When he becomes an adult he tries to find her. The story is told in alternating points of view until he finds her and gets his questions answered.
Tessa
Frontier Christmas by Ana Leigh, Carolyn Davidson and Kate Bridges
There are three novellas in this collection of Christmas stories set in the latter part of the 19th century: Ana Leigh’s “The Mackenzies: Lily”, “A Time for Angels” by Carolyn Davidson, and Kate Bridges’ “The Long Journey Home”. They are all predictable historical holiday romances, and suitably entertaining.
LisaMarie
Twice by Mitch Albom
His books have such meaning. I loved this book. What a superpower to have to go back and do something again to get it right, or could you? Highly recommend.
Lynda
The Age of Innocence by Edith Wharton
The romance takes place in New York City during the 1870's Gilded Age. Newland Archer is a gentleman who is affectionately engaged to a proper woman in his upper class society. But then he meets and falls passionately in love with a married woman, an outcast. So who does he choose? I felt transported to a time of grandeur and excess with very strict codes of behavior.
Nona
The Lies They Told by Ellen Marie Wiseman
I could not put this book down. To think there was a time in history that so many are probably unaware of. Highly recommend.
Michelle
Nobody’s Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice by Virginia Roberts Giuffre
I could not put this gut-wrenching memoir down. Though it was incredibly difficult to listen to at times, it’s a vital story everyone should hear. It opened my eyes to the realities of human trafficking, especially the ways girls and women are sometimes used to lure others in. I’m so sad to know Virginia took her life in the end. I hope her suffering is truly over.
Rebecca
Beyond the Point by Claire Gibson
A good coming-of-age story about deep friendships and finding your own way.
Bliss
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
This was a sweet story of a gentle giving man who touched so many lives in a small southern town. Lives were changes and secrets discovered in this novel.
Liz
Call of the Camino by Suzanne Redfearn
Two young women, two different time periods, each walking the Camino de Santiago. In 1997, Isabell Vidal runs away from her boarding school in Europe in order to save her life. She runs towards the Camino. In 2024 Reina Watkins is given the chance of a lifetime to further her career by writing an article on the Camino. Both women are hoping for different things. Isabelle is walking to save her life and Reina is looking to come to grips with her past. While the story is told in parallel time frames and each chapter being told by each one of them, the story comes together beautifully. The destinies are entwined in a very miraculous way. Thank you, NetGalley for this amazing audio book.
Darlene
Mrs. Claus and the Santaland Slayings by Liz Ireland
Entertaining.
Leslie
Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai
I wanted to love this book but did not. She is a wonderful writer and the story is compelling.
Susan
When You Are Engulfed in Flames by David Sedaris
Some laugh-out-loud stories, some touching, some just pure fun or strange. No matter what, Sedaris is a wonderful writer who bravely bares his soul and knows quite well who he is.
Sandy
The Locked Ward by Sarah Pekkanen
It's the crime of the decade when Georgia Cartwright, who was adopted as a newborn, is accused of killing the biological daughter of her adoptive family. Georgia is locked in a psychiatric institution with lots of crazy people while she awaits trial. You won't believe who was the real killer!!
Amy
The Light of Days: The Untold Story of Women Resistance Fighters in Hitler's Ghettos by Judy Batalion
This dragged on too long.
Rose
Gone Before Goodbye by Harlan Coben and Reese Witherspoon
A female physician, Maggie, is recruited to perform plastic surgery on a secret patient. One problem - she lost her license to practice. However, with enough money, things can change. So, she travels to perform not only this surgery, but also surgery on his mistress. She notices a tattoo on the woman similar to one on her own husband. Along with her father-in-law, Porkchop, Maggie tries to escape the jaws of the conspiracy she has unwittingly discovered, and the people she thought she trusted aren't necessarily the good guys. I was a bit disappointed, and definitely confused, at the end.
Rose
Mrs. Christie at the Mystery Guild Library by Amanda Chapman
A cute mystery which weaves the actual Agatha Christie mysteries into the story. Tory is a book conservator and along with a woman, Mrs. Max Mallowan, who claims to be Agatha Christie, they attempt to solve a murder. Nic, Tory's cousin, has a talent agent, Howard Calhoun, who is killed after being pushed under a subway train. The detective, Sebastian, is pulled into the group and the friends. Tory doesn't want to believe it is actually Mrs. Christie, but things happen that put this in doubt. My favorite part of the book was all the references to the Christie stories as I have been reading many of these novels over the past year.
Rose
The Book of Autumn by Molly O'Sullivan
I am typically not a fan of fantasy, so this book was a miss for me. Marcella is half of a pair of magicians, the other being Max. But she had decided to stop practicing magic. However, Max comes to her because a student at their alma mater is dead. There is another floating in the infirmary. They have to work together to intervene in this mystery. I liked the cover, but not much else.
Rose
Come to the Window by Howard Norman
A short book about a journalist, Toby, in Nova Scotia, who writes about a woman (newlywed), Elizabeth, who murders her husband shortly after the wedding. The setting is 1918, the Spanish Flu pandemic is ravaging the world, and WWI, the Great War, is ending. Toby's wife, Amelia, is a doctor, and he recounts the story of Elizabeth, and her life. War and grief are underlying themes.
Rose
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Sybil has spent a lifetime writing letters to all sorts of people, mainly friends, but often authors. She feels that letters are more permanent than emails. Over the course of several years of letters, she recounts her struggle with learning she was adopted, the grief over the death of her middle child, her subsequent divorce, and the estrangement of her daughter, Fiona. We learn more about Sybil and why she harbors such grief and whether or not she is able to get past it. It is an engrossing story, sometimes humorous, but also sad. I enjoyed it.
Chris
The River's Daughter by Bridget Crocker
True story of a gal who had a really tough upbringing and became a whitewater rafting guide. Engrossing and exciting!
Bonnie
At Last by Marisa Silver
This was a very different book; two mothers-in-laws both vying for their adult child’s and grandchild’s love. The story really started going when the author went back and told us about the two women’s lives as children. It helped us readers understand how the women came to be as they were. As time went on, both women became kinder and more comfortable in their own skin.
Suzanne
Emma on Fire by James Patterson and Emily Raymond
Emma was the high achiever in school, always confident with others and everything she did. Now all she sees is a future world being destroyed. They are not doing enough to stop climate change. Emma decides it is up to her to wake up the students before it is too late.
Joan
Compromising Positions by Susan Isaacs
I can't say I liked all the characters, but the author made them all memorable.
Michelle
The Devils by Joe Abercrombie
Excellent, hilarious, what a release! Complex world-building, great characters and an engaging read that just keeps getting better.
Michelle
Candle Island by Lauren Wolk
This will be a great diverting read for any middle school and older reader in your life. I've just returned from a trip to Acadia National Park in Maine, and this book is a wonderful extension of that Down East experience.
Linda
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
Quote from book - "The things that we love tell us what we are."
Donna
The Small and the Mighty by Sharon McMahon
This book, written by an author often called America’s Government teacher, reaffirms the idea that true strength isn’t about size, status, or authority, but about resilience, courage, and the willingness to stand for what is right. This collection of stories about 12 Americans who have made an impact on citizens will remain with the reader. A book club selection, the novel inspired great conversation and a reminder that small actions are important.
Francisca
True Biz by Sara Nović
Nović has crafted a story that is universal in the issues of coming-of-age, but unique to the challenges faced by the Deaf in a mostly hearing world. It really opened my eyes to the issues faced by this community and challenged my ideas regarding cochlear implants. In some ways this is a typical coming-of-age story, and Charlie and Austin are typical teenagers. Nović’s characters are strong, resilient, conflicted and determined. There are some really tough subjects covered in the novel, and the issues faced by the Deaf, and other communities viewed as “different,” are not easily resolved in real life, let alone in a novel.
Lesley
Remain by Nicholas Sparks and M. Night Shyamalan
"A supernatural romance." Who knew Nicholas Sparks was such a fan of horror? He writes it well! There are a few frightening scenes that were pretty terrifying. The rest of the book is trying to figure out what is going on in this small Cape Cod town. A fun read. Not as twisty as I was hoping, but I enjoyed the book, especially the beginning!
Denise
The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly
Mickey Haller has crossed over from the criminal to the civil side of the justice system. He takes on a big AI company (Tidalwaiv) positioning itself for purchase. His client Brenda, the mother whose daughter was murdered by the ex-boyfriend after being encouraged by his female AI companion.
Haller brings in his crew to assist him. His new office in the Art District now has top notch security knowing his opponent can have eyes and ears anywhere. The AI Company has much to lose and the money and desire to make the case go away with a settlement, before going to a jury. Sketchy situations occur with witnesses, delays and discovery material. Haller and his team must stay one step ahead if they are going to get justice for their client.
Karishma
Guess Again by Charlie Donlea
I love reading Charlie Donlea’s books. He is one of my favorite authors.
Darlene
Mrs. Claus and the Santaland Slayings by Liz Ireland
Light and entertaining.
Jeanne
The Queens of Crime by Marie Benedict
THE QUEENS OF CRIME by Marie Benedict is a well-written historical fiction novel involving five mystery writers, including Dorothy Sayers and Agatha Christie as they formed a women’s detection group called Queens of Crime, much to the chagrin of their male counterpart, the Detection Club. The ladies set out to prove they can solve the murder of a young French woman. This book was entertaining, the ladies were quirky and delightfully charming.
Terry
The Burning of Rosemont Abbey by Naomi Stephens
Light mystery, well written, some romance, too.
Susan
The Black Wolf by Louise Penny
I have been a fan of Louise Penny’s books until THE BLACK WOLF. The writing is just as strong and the plot is strongly developed. My issue is with the storyline. I did not find the storyline believable. Yes, in life anything is possible, but really??!! I cannot recommend this book to others.
Cynthia
The Christmas Stranger by Richard Paul Evans
A heartbroken Paul had a tragic story to share. He was ready to join his deceased family but a stranger shows up to show him life can start over and challenges him to wait for a path to appear of making his life whole again. Seems the stranger can predict what going to happen next. His shows up for Paul in unexpected ways that change the way Paul’s life goes.
Jayme
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
I'm surprised I was able to finish considering my tears kept blurring the pages. All the stars.
Jean
The Grey Wolf by Louise Penny
Ms. Penny has strayed into politics, and I missed Three Pines and the characters as they only make brief appearances in this book.
Linda
All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot
Our book club has a big 'age range' and some (younger members) had never read any of the Herriot books whilst others had the original first printing. It was a pleasure to reread and, of course, then compare the PBS series. Sometimes we need a break from the 'in your face' real world and literary world!
Lucy
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
Savored this book about friendship and kindness. Everyone in my book club loved it, which is a first.
Barbara
The Innocent by Harlan Coben
Another great story by Harlan Coben about a young man who had been in prison for murder and how it affected his life after he was paroled. I am from New Jersey, and Harlan Coben is as well. I especially like his stories because he always mentions places and events from New Jersey that I find interesting to read about in his stories.
Chris
Rainbow Black by Maggie Thrash
Excellent story and character development; lots of surprises; twists and turns. A page-turner.
Jayme
Playground by Richard Powers
4.5 rounded to 5. I absolutely loved it. Powers is back and this time he is introducing us to the wonders of the ocean and the iceberg, that is AI. My favorite parts were the descriptions of the ocean and its playful creatures, but the depth of the impact that AI will/has on the world is startling.
And can we just pause to look at what I think is an incredibly beautiful cover. It's hard to get the full effect from a picture, but when you move the book towards the light it becomes iridescent like the colors of the sea. Stunning.
Luella
Burnout Summer by Jenna Ramirez
A story of career burnout, extreme college friendships, and a romance you don't want to happen. The main character was hard to connect with, unlikable.
Wanda
The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah
The French during the war and all the sufferings the people were put through by the Nazis. Historical read, very sad for most of the book but a ‘need-to-read’ history. Characters were well described in this novel.
jana
Queen Esther by John Irving
Loved, loved this book about a family and their ways to protect each other. First book by John Irving for me.
Meggan
Michael Without Apology by Catherine Ryan Hyde
I finished reading this book last week, and I'm still savoring Michael's journey and the truths he uncovered. Will definitely want to re-read and discuss with my book club!
Maureen
The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani
I have read most of her books. They put me in a great mood.
MH
Queen Esther by John Irving
After CIDER HOUSE RULES, which I’ve read at least twice, I was eagerly awaiting this novel. While I thought the writing was excellent, I didn’t find the story engaging. Esther of the title was practically nonexistent in the story. She very quickly moved to Israel and became what? A spy? A resistance fighter? The truth about her is never revealed. In addition, the story is told in summary form and felt more like Cliffs Notes than a novel. In the time period of the story when little would have been mentioned, there was far too much discussion of sex, far too many characters with openly different sexual orientations. It was a disappointment to me.
Lynn
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Brilliantly crafted. The best book I've read this year!
Sharon
The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd
Second time to read this book and it was even better! There's racism, religion, and romance - a great combination. Some in our book club took exception to some of the religious aspects, but in discussion, they seemed to come to understand how the women came to exercise their faith.
Judy
The Thief of All Light by Bernard Schaffer
Very exciting.
Holly
Twice by Mitch Albom
Time travel with all the feels.
Holly
The Serviceberry: Abundance and Reciprocity in the Natural World by Robin Wall Kimmerer
What a gift to us - an introduction for many of us to the gift economy. In a time of privatization of many public goods, such as education, water, health care, a reminder that it was not always like this is crucial. We CAN work together and share our resources. We CAN rise to our higher selves and transform our beliefs and actions. This book is a good place to start.
Holly
Who Is Government? The Untold Story of Public Service by Michael Lewis
Engaging keyhole profiles of a variety of government workers who make our improve our society without fanfare or thanks. Those who think a smaller government is preferable should read about the contributions of these unsung federal employees, who quietly make all of our lives better.
Holly
Surviving Climate Anxiety: A Guide to Coping, Healing, and Thriving by Dr. Thomas Doherty
It would seem that those of us who lose sleep at night over climate change are in good company. So much so that practicing psychologist Dr. Thomas Doherty wrote a book to address it. Father and widower, Doherty focuses on “post doom” rather than heavy depressing statistics. He blends cognitive behavioral with several other counseling tools—including spirituality—to counter climate anxiety in his clients. According to Doherty, our current climate crisis is more complicated, tragic, and unjust than we think. But there is also better news than we know. The majority of people care about the natural world and want to take care of it. In his book, Doherty promises to help us reframe climate anxiety to work for us, rather than against us.
Rene
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Such a wonderful book. It’s about choices we make and sometimes regret.
Joan
Compromising Positions by Susan Isaacs
Of all the books I have read in 2025, it was my second favorite.
Rose
The Librarians of Lisbon by Suzanne Nelson
Librarians Bea and Selene are sent to Lisbon, Portugal to save books from the Nazis. While there, they become involved with a baron, Luca Caldeira, and a spy, code name Gable. This leads to romance between the couples, and also danger. Bea begins working undercover. As one of the foursome is later compromised, the truth finally comes to light. I wasn't aware of the librarian's role in assisting the Allies in WWII. I also had not read anything about the Lisbon connection. So, I learned some new information.
Rose
Bunny by Mona Awad
I don't typically read horror, and only read this book to complete a challenge. Young women enrolled in a program all call each other bunny. Then they all fight over a particular man. When the man is revealed to be something unexpected at the end, there is an awful fight. I can't believe there is a sequel to this, but there is. Oh my.
Chris
Dreamer: My Life on the Edge by Nazem Kadri
Great book for anyone who is a hockey fan.
Rose
What Kind of Paradise by Janelle Brown
Jane and her father live off the grid in a cabin in Montana. Jane believes her mother died years ago, and doesn't discover the truth until her father brings home a computer one day and she begins searching for answers. She meets Lionel in a chat room and enlists his help. She escapes from her father and his doomsday tales of how technology is destroying the world. He is speaking from his experience as a tech genius. As Jane researches and finds the truth, everything she thought she knew is upended. Additionally, her father's life is changed by Jane's revelation. Is technology the enemy? Interesting perspective.
Rose
Lovelight Farms by B. K. Borison
A light Christmas romance. Stella has purchased a Christmas tree farm due to the memories she had of visiting the farm with her mom, now deceased. Her best friend is Luca, a man she literally ran into after leaving the hardware store after her mom died, and she was grieving. Luca takes her for a grilled cheese sandwich, and their friendship builds from there. Stella's farm is bleeding money, and she enters a contest to try to win a cash prize to help. She says she runs the farm with her boyfriend. Now she needs a fake boyfriend and asks Luca, but she is afraid it will end their friendship. A sweet romance, but honestly, how can she not see what is right in front of her eyes??
Marcia
The Missing Pages by Alyson Richman
Interesting historical fiction. Two timelines. One ghost.
Marcia
The Forget-Me-Not Library by Heather Webber
Pleasant story with some magical realism. Refreshing.
Sandy
The Poppy Fields by Nikki Erlick
Welcome to the poppy fields where there's hope for even the most battered hearts to heal. I loved this book so much!
Deborah Jackson
Clear by Carys Davies
Tender story set in small island off northern Scotland, based on the Scottish Clearances in 19th century that pushed tenant farmers off land that was then used to graze sheep.
Dorothy
Winter in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand
A light read at this busy time of year!
Jane
Scent of Sabotage by Dana Mentink
Jack and Beth are reunited after years. They put a baby up for adoption at birth. Beth had married. But he passed away. She has 6 other children. Jack needs Beth's help to locate her first son's girlfriend. Danger in a closed amusement park is a lot but God protects all involved. Unique in the way God brings Beth to reunite with her first husband and her son. God brings them all together.
Jane
Hollenberg Hearts by Donna Schlachter
Hearts of the Pony Express - Book 1. Catherine, a mail order bride, heads west to become a wife of a stationmaster. She is using a friend's name. Turns out the guy isn't one who has been writing to her. She expects to meet up with Benjamin Trout. He has a crippled leg. So many things not as they seem, but God has a plan. It needed to go one more chapter.
Jane
Hidden Twin by Jodie Bailey
Amy is already in witness protection. She is found and on the run. She isn't safe for long. God protects her and Sam who is a U.S. Marshall. No one can figure out how she is being tracked. Read to find out. There is a lot to learn about forgiving yourself for things beyond your control. Amy has a twin sister she hadn't seen in a long time. Things Amy never knew are revealed. Jodie's books keep you on edge. Read them all.
Jane
Through the Storm by Rula Sinara
An adventure in South Africa. Poaching that is sickening. Whole animals wasted just to harvest the tusks. Babies left without parents. Tessa's marriage is not what it seems. She overhears a telephone conversation that sets her in search of the truth. People killed to cover up the ruthlessness. Tessa's sister and brother-in-law are murdered in a plane crash that is not ordinary. Mac teased Tessa all through high school. His brother is married toTessa's sister. A nephew, Nick, left for both Mac and Tessa to care for. This is the first book I've read by this author. Enjoyed.
Jane
Booking the Crook by Laurie Cass
Minnie works at the library and drives the bookmobile. Eddie, her cat, is a part of it all. One day, out on her regular route one of her normal customers does not show up. She and her helper go to check on her and find her dead. Minnie wants to learn why. Kids of the woman ask for her help. This begins the search. An unexpected event happens one day while she is trying to drive the bookmobile back to the library. The beginning takes a while to get moving. Stick with it. It is a good read.
Tessa
Hark! The Herald Angel Falls by Tricia Goyer
This part of the Sugarcreek Amish Mystery series (# 31, I think), but the first one of the group that I’ve read. It is a charming cozy mystery featuring an “Englischer” woman and her Amish mother-in-law as the amateur sleuths. I liked how the women go about gathering information and deliberating about possibilities. I figured out the perpetrator as soon as the character was introduced but still enjoyed watching how the women (and law enforcement) came to the same conclusion.
Jean
That Old Ace in the Hole by Annie Proulx
Fascinating story about a young man trying to do an impossible task, getting people to sell their land to become hog farms. He makes all kinds of friends, learns to love the country where he is working, and succeeds mostly in finding himself.
Liz
The Perfect Son by Freida McFadden
Erik Cass knows her family isn’t perfect. Ever since her son, Liam, was a very young boy she knew there was something “different” about him. A young teenage girl in Liam’s class goes missing. After a quick investigation Liam is arrested and charged with kidnapping and murdering the young girl. Erika will do everything in her power to protect him. Fans of Freida McFadden will not be disappointed.
Anthony
Lessons in Chemistry by Bonnie Garmus
This is, at heart, a feminist story of a woman, Elizabeth Zott, who lives life on her own terms and doesn't take crap from anyone. She faces obstacles as a scientist in the 1950s-60s, particularly after her boyfriend dies. It's funny, sharp and insightful about problems women faced in getting people to take them seriously at that time.
Jill
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
A wonderfully-propulsive queer love story set during the U.S. space age of the 1980s. Reid effectively covers the two stories of a crisis in space involving her lover and of their love story over time. It's also about the challenge that women in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) careers at that time.
Kathy
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
I have seen many rave reviews about this book, but I just cannot be one of them. I did like the format - all letters to different people in the life of Sybil Van Antwerp, and some back to her. I found myself confused at times as to who was who and this made it “drag” for me. It started out so slow, but then things began to tie together and it got better. The story was very interesting - family dynamics and friendships, horrific and troubling events, acceptance and forgiveness.
Carol
The Buffalo Hunter Hunter by Stephen Graham Jones
The story is told in first person narration, three first person narrations actually, employing a fractured timeline with stories set in different timelines nesting within each other. It is set against a backdrop of the Marias Massacre of 1870 in which at least 200 Piegan Blackfeet were murdered by the U.S. Army. Yes we have vampires. Despite having a blood-sucking monster rampaging through its pages, the real villains of the piece are the buffalo hunters, interested in only one thing - the monetary value of the hides, wiping out vast numbers of the beasts and leaving their bodies – and the meat they would provide – to rot after they’ve gone. The writing throughout is of the highest order and the book is a must-read. It’s excellent.
Rose
Welcome to Murder Week by Karen Dukess
Cath's mother dies and leaves her an unexpected gift - a trip to England for a murder mystery week. Cath had a strange relationship with her mom, as her mother left her alone for long periods of time. Cath attempts to cancel the trip, but cannot. So, she heads to England, and along with her cottage mates, they attempt to solve the mystery. She meets Dev Sharma, local maker of artisanal gin and they have a romantic relationship. While in England, Cath is able to find out more about her mother and her family, and gain insight into the reason for her mother's estranged relationship. I liked the mystery and the reveal of the mother's back story. I liked this much better than the author's previous book.
Rose
Backslide by Nora Dahlia
A romance years in the making. Nellie is still angry at Noah for not choosing her when they were teens and their relationship hit a snag. For nearly 20 years she has held a grudge, and when they are back together for their friend's vow renewal celebration, she tries to avoid him but they are thrown together in various situations, and the attraction they had many years ago returns. However, once again they hit a snag, and until they choose each other things aren't going forward. I liked this cute romance, although it was predictable, but what romance stories aren't?
Rose
Wreck by Catherine Newman
After a train and car collide, Rocky becomes obsessed with the tragedy. Then, she becomes concerned about a rash she discovers, wondering if she will die. The story revolves around the family and how they react to each other and to the news of both the tragedy and the pending diagnosis. A simple, short story about family and tragedy and working through life together.
Carolyn
Midnight Flyboys by Bruce Henderson
Live in the world that is fraught with danger for both the pilots flying low level missions to arm French WWII resistance fighters and the SOE agents that ultimately dropped in to help set up networks and train. I cannot image the strength and courage of these people, both male and female. There is both excitement for jobs that go well and edge-of-your seat emotion for many that do not. This nonfiction book reads like a novel whose characters you will come to love and respect. There are not happy endings for many but that is the price of war. I have never read anything about these particular pilots and crews before. It is a welcome book to the WWII lexicon. (Audio is great).
Nancy
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
Theo is a stranger in Golden. He visits a local coffee shop and sees portraits of the townspeople. He decides to buy them and give them to the "rightful owner." He becomes friends with the people in Golden, listens to their stories, and alters their lives. Amazon - "a beautifully crafted novel about the power of creative generosity, the importance of wonder to a purposeful life, and the invisible threads of kindness that bind us to one another." I can't describe it any better than that. Even though the people in the town wonder where he came from and what his story is, they don't find out until the end. I had a hard time putting it down. It is a story of goodness that has remained with me for weeks. I am recommending it to all my friends.
Lesley
We Are the Light by Matthew Quick
This novel shares some similarities with the author's best selling book, THE SILVER LININGS PLAYBOOK, but this one is even more touching and tragic. The entire novel is composed of letters to the characters Jungian analyst, and well, I couldn't put it down. A short book that is full of heart and perfect for Christmas time.
Elise
Nesting by Roisin O'Donnell
Sad, but ultimately hopeful story of a woman in Ireland who leaves her emotionally abusive husband, and her fierce determination to provide a better life for her three children. Very well written.
Susan
Anything Is Possible by Elizabeth Strout
The follow-up to MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON is just as harrowing a read, but ends with a bright spot for several of the characters first introduced in LUCY. The ending is magnanimous. I'll soon be out of unread Strout novels and will have to start over.
Terry
Is That You, Petula? by Petula Clark
A candid memoir by British star Petula Clark.
Sean
Trespasser by Paul Doiron
I don't think this book was perfect but it was entertaining as hell. Author Paul Doiron takes readers back to Maine, and this time game warden Mike Bowditch has another mystery to unravel. The book has a ton of great red herrings, no "gotcha" twist, but just solid storytelling. The main character is flawed, makes bad decisions, and acts human. The antagonists are different levels of bad and it's appreciated that not everyone is stark white or black. The setting is character on its own. Overall, just a solid murder mystery that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Christine
The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid
I really like the story and would recommend it to other people.
Linda
A Murderous Business by Cathy Pagau
Good murder mystery with relatable main characters.
Gwen
The Black Wolf by Louise Penny
Very twisty in terms of discovering the villain! This novel, a sequel to THE GREY WOLF, may be Penny’s best book ever! It’s wonderful to have all our familiar characters return, including the duck.
Dawn
Their Shadows Deep by Peter Golden
This is a newly published fiction book. It is mainly about JFK and Jackie Kennedy, and his relatives and their interactions during JFK's early life and all his interactions before he was elected President. It also has a murder mystery in this book, which is also about the male that ends up murdered and his wife. I rarely give any book 5 stars, but it was that good. Will probably look for some more books by this author, too.
Lynne
The Hounding by Xenobe Purvis
Lovely atmospheric Gothic-style novel that calls to mind the Brontes and Hardy. Five orphaned girls, raised by their grandfather, turn into hounds according to their village neighbors during a summer of drought. Wonderful story about trying to be oneself in the midst of condemnation for that very thing.
Rhonda
The Queen of Fives by Alex Hay
Lots of twists and turns in this book about confidence scams run by ladies.
Vicki
Dream State by Eric Puchner
Kept me interested page by page.
Kathy
The Pirate Stamp by Kerry Casey
The author does a wonderful developing characters. The setting, Nebraska, is unusual. There are a lot of surprising connections. I found many quotes and lessons to live by throughout the book.
Suzanne
Kill Me If You Can by James Patterson and Marshall Karp
At first I thought this book was okay, kind of ho hum. When I got farther into the middle there was a real turnaround and I couldn't wait to read faster. It starts Mathew Bannon ex military, artist, and now going back school after meeting the art professor. This was published in 2011 but I'm going back to books I missed.
sue
I Cheerfully Refuse by Leif Enger
Excellent!
Julie
The Land in Winter by Andrew Miller
Two couples in rural England in the 1960s. The wives become friendly when they find they are both pregnant. Both couples have secrets that are kept. Beautiful writing.
Barbara
Dark Roads by Chevy Stevens
I love it when I discover an author for the first time, no matter how established they may already be. The first time I met Chevy Steven's work, DARK ROADS, was through an email recommendation. Loosely based on a real highway of death of unsolved murders in Canada, the main character, Hailey McBride, is convinced she knows who is killing the missing young women along a stretch of highway in Cold Creek. I was expecting another entertaining mystery of a serial killer and the female protagonist who brings him down, but this was so good I am sure my friends and family are sick of hearing me go on and on about it. A few took my recommendation and agreed it's one of the best mysteries we've read!
barbara
The Innocent by Harlan Coben
I love anything Coben writes. The story is about a young man who had been in prison and how this affects his life when he is trying to start a new life. I am from New Jersey and Coben is as well. I always find it interesting when a place from New Jersey is part of the story.
Michelle
Before I Forget by Tory Henwood Hoen
A rare gem of a book that will easily be one of my top books of the year! It’s a perfect balance of heartwarming and heartbreaking. I loved the beautiful father/daughter relationship, the endearing side characters that make the story richer, and the ease with which the author could have me chuckling on one page and getting teary eyed on the next. This is a story about grief and redemption, about what we remember and what we forget, and about discovering our place and purpose. There is still plenty of whimsy and even a little quirkiness to keep the story from veering into sappy. I cannot recommend this book enough and look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Margaret
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
Powerful.
Lynda
The Caretaker by Ron Rash
The caretaker of a cemetery has a heartwrenching decision to make which involves two different kinds of love - compassionate versus selfish. I loved the ending.
Michelle
James by Percival Everett
Wonderful story from Jim's point of view. Well written and moved quickly.
Christine
Skeleton Key by Anthony Horowitz
Interesting but far-fetched. 14-year-old with skills of a 007 operative.
Harriet
The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama
A fascinating tale of a Japanese family during WWII. One son becomes a Sumo wrestler, and his brother dreams of becoming a master of carving wooden masks for Noh theater.
Judy
Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister
Slow start but good at end.
Pattie
Lamb: The Gospel According to Biff by Christopher Moore
It’s a bit cringy for me, but my book club is reading it.
Karishma
Guess Again by Charlie Donlea
I have always enjoyed Charlie Donlea’s books. This one did not disappoint.
Carla
Heartwood by Amity Gaige
Parallel stories about an unsatisfied married woman who becomes lost while trekking the Appalacian Trail, the introverted lesbian forest warden who leads the search for her, and the retired loner living in a seniors' home who becomes obsessed with the case online. Well-written language, fleshed-out characters, riveting plot, and interesting insights into the human condition. Well worth reading.
Natalie
The Seven O'Clock Club by Amelia Ireland
It’s not often that a book surprises me, but this one surprised me a few times. Mostly this book deals with grief for the main characters. It’s also a story about bravery and unexpected connections. Can’t say much more without spoiling the unexpected revelations that you will not see coming.
Robin
Queen Esther by John Irving
I liked the premise of an orphan like Queen Esther in the Bible. I didn't like the surrogacy part. I really did not like the politics of Israel/Gaza. Disappointed in this read.
Debbie
Twice by Mitch Albom
Intriguing.
Dvora
The Marriage of Opposites by Alice Hoffman
Interesting but too many characters to deal with.
Helen
The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand and Shelby Cunningham
A fascinating drama set in a New England boarding school with wonderful strong women characters.
Lisbeth Meyer
The Women by Kristin Hannah
An incredible story that needed to be told. I grew up during the Vietnam era and identified with so much of the history included in the book. The story held my attention, bringing me to tears in certain parts. Kristin Hannah never fails to engage. I appreciate the in-depth research that clearly goes into each book she writes.
Lisbeth
Remarkedly Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
What a delightful read! The blend of characters was exceptional and held my attention from the beginning to the end. A heartwarming story of friendship between an octopus and a lady who ultimately finds love and healing from the loss of her son. I highly recommend!
Monica
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
This is my favorite book of the year, and I have recommended it to so many fellow readers. The audio version is spectacular with all the different voices of the characters in the book. I highly recommend buying the book and listening to the audio version right along with the book in hand.
Wanda
Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino
This girl has gone to the extremes for house hunting! A funny read, sense of humor that makes one laugh out loud. Good storyline, keeps you interested in what will happen next.
Nonie
The Man Next Door by Sheila Roberts
A light, easy read. The story was like three stories in one. We learned about the grandma, the daughter and the main character. A lot of character development. The ending was a little predictable.
Jana
Some Bright Nowhere by Ann Packer
Loved, loved this first book from this author for me. It makes me want to question what would I do in this situation. Thought-provoking and enlightening.
Nancy
The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb
One of the best books I have read from the first word to the last. The impact of alcohol and drugs on peoples' lives. It shows how addiction can put those you love at the end of the line, even when you don't mean to.
Vesna
Too Old For This by Samantha Downing
Waited a long time for this one from the library, not sure what all the hype was about. Story was boring and not at all fast paced as I had hoped. Yet another disappointing read after a lot of hype.
Maryanne
Trust by Hernan Diaz
Interesting construction to show how the truth comes through many exaggerations and distortions. Depictions of different personalities and events can completely change a story. A very, very good read of complicated characters.
Rene
The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly
Best book of the year!
Pamela
A Serial Killer’s Guide to Marriage by Asia MacKay
Absolutely fabulous read. I could not put it down.
Richard N B
To Catch a Thief by David Dodge
I really enjoyed reading this classic crime novel, made famous by the Alfred Hitchcock movie of the same name, starring Cary Grant (John Robie) and Grace Kelly (Francie Stevens). Robie is a great lead character. He’s intelligent, cunning, charming and resourceful. Francie (vacationing in Cannes with her Texas-oil-rich mother) is every bit his match: smart, beautiful, astutely observant. The pace is a bit slower than today’s mystery thrillers, but still kept me turning pages.
Jan
Queen Esther by John Irving
John Irving has written a very powerful story in QUEEN ESTHER. Each character adds impactful personalities to the storyline. Mr. Irving has not only written a fictional novel but one that follows actual historical events.
Myrna
The Time Keepers by Alyson Richman
Another emotional, sensitive, and ultimately heartwarming novel from Alyson Richman. This one brings together the stories of a Vietnam vet, a married couple who are owners of a clock shop they inherited from the husband's father, and two Vietnamese immigrants, survivors of their boat trip that killed their fellow family travelers. Richman also works in the stories of the married couple's daughters as they deal with the angst of teen years and in the case of the younger child, making new friends. Richman shows much faith in the kindness of people who reach out to ease the troubles of those who would otherwise be lonely and lost. This was a great book club choice, opening up our lines of communication easily. Loved it!
Elly
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Great fun to read. Told in epistolary style, a puzzle is created as the reader comes to understand the relationships of the characters. The protagonist has no filter, a tender heart, a fierce loyalty, remorse, a free spirit, and a sense of humor. Loved this book - one I would read again!
Lee
King Sorrow by Joe Hill
Exceptional story, great characters.
Bliss
The Secret Wife by Gill Paul
This book was loosely based on the murders of the Russian Romanov family. I was intrigued and curious to do my own research. I learned a lot about Russia in the early 1900s. Character development was superb and the storyline was heartbreaking at times.
Melissa
All This Could Be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan
This is a story about an author of a book with an inspiring/strong female protagonist. It begins as she embarks on her book tour and takes you through that whirlwind, which is exacerbated by her family having moved "the day before" to a new home and a mystery swirling around her about a locket. I found some of the events in the book were stretched a bit thin, and sometimes the author's voice to be a little to repetitive, as she replays and rethinks things in her head (which are "out loud" to us readers.) It was just okay.
Debbie
The Art Thief by Michael Finkel
Intriguing.
Beverlee
The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb
This was a tough book to read - tough topics, raw emotions and written so well. I had to put it down many times to be able to move forward. My first book by Wally Lamb - now I need to go back and read his others!
Sherry
The Boys in the Light by Nina Willner
A true story of two teenage boys who survived the Holocaust and the group of American soldiers who rescued them after they escaped. The book follows Eddie Willner, the author's father, and his family from the days just before WWII, their hiding outside Germany and eventual capture and time at Auschwitz. In parallel, we learn the story of the young Americans who volunteered and were drafted to serve in an armored division in Europe. Nonfiction that read like an historical novel.
Pam
The Teacher by Frieda McFadden
This was a fun book given to me. The storyline moves fast; fast chapters which make this a good read on the train, plane, etc.
Edie
A Wild and Heavenly Place by Robin Oliveira
Learned something about Scotland and the different classes of people. The struggles of life coming to America (Seattle) and the way they fought among themselves to survive. Very interesting story!
MH
The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown
In his usual fashion, Dan Brown packs more into a day than most of us could do in a month! By 10 a.m., Robert Langdon has already run several miles, gone swimming, seen a creature from the dead, and pulled a fire alarm on the hotel wall before jumping into the freezing river. I especially enjoyed the visit to Prague with the description of its many interesting places. Of less interest were the lengthy discourses on the subject of Katherine’s book, which could have been deleted or only hinted at and would have improved the book. Overall, a typical Dan Brown book.
Alexandra
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
An excellent book, with elements of mystery, history, and a little romance. It is based on the diaries of Martha Ballard, a late 18th century midwife. My book club loved it and we had a very lively and interesting discussion about it.
Ivy
The Night Before by Lisa Jackson
Takes off with a punch. Who killed Josh? As Caitlyn struggles to piece together what happened while she was blacked out, time is not on her side. A thrilling suspenseful story.
Zara
Pick a Color by Souvankham Thammavongsa
Reading through PICK A COLOR was like eavesdropping on the translatable side of a nail salon, with its first-person narrative, an ongoing toughness the main character tries to maintain throughout the novel. While a short book, it is filled with an angry melancholy, an ode to loneliness. While I would have preferred more lyrical language, the narrative was straightforward and brutally honest, which is what most likely won its Giller Prize title. It's a story of the female fight against worn stereotypes and a resilience through it without positive affirmations that so often lead to cliche. It is about female competition, comraderie, and independence, even if that independence can be emotionally isolating.
Michelle
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
Definitely not my favorite Lucy Foley book. I was hoping for some big twist. I mostly figured things out ahead of time so it was a little anticlimactic.
Michelle
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett
A glorious epic story that made me appreciate architecture. Amazing storytelling.
S
The 13th Gift: A True Story of a Christmas Miracle by Joanne Huist Smith
Based on true story, a heartwarming story about a family dealing with their first holiday season after the loss of their husband/father and the mystery of who is leaving them gifts inspired by "The Twelve Days of Christmas.". Well written, fast read!
Terry
The Black Wolf by Louise Penny
Long book, complicated plot as usual, somewhat scary view of the future.
Trudy
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
I really enjoyed the audio version! A blend of sadness and humor of what being a friend means.
Darlene
The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb
A great read.
Elizabeth
Pick A Color by Souvankham Thammavongsa
I picked this book because the title was catchy, but I stayed for the story. It’s two stories - one a commentary on life in a salon (the chatter, the characters) and the other the interior life of the salon owner. I’m seriously considering this novel for my next book club pick.
Nancy
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
This is a beautifully-written book about a woman who embraces the often lost art of letter writing. The entire book is told in letter form (with an occasional email.) Her life story is revealed through the letters and her correspondence varies from family to authors to a former colleague’s son.
Joan
The Academy by Elin Hilderbrand
I have read all of Elin Hilderbrand's books. She is one of my favourite authors. However, this book was a BIG disappointment.
Sandy
The Irish Goodbye by Heather Aimee O'Neill
This is her first novel and I am sure she is hard at work writing her next one, which I hope will be just as good.
Cheryl
The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan
Ryan specializes in stories about England during World War II. This latest book mixes facts and fiction about the Nazi bombing of the Bethnal Green neighborhood in London and the direct hit the underground station took in one bombing raid. The characters are fairly well developed and social issues—teen pregnancy, PTSD—as well as the Nazi’s efforts to eradicate Jews across Europe and stamp out other cultures and languages, are presented for a better understanding of this historic era.
Joan
Compromising Positions by Susan Isaacs
Excellent book. I will read more by Susan Isaacs.
Rose
The Defense by Steve Cavanagh
When former con man/lawyer Eddie Flynn is cornered into helping a Russian mobster beat a case, he attempts to turn the tables. But the head of the Russian mob has a valuable bargaining chip. He has Eddie's 10-year-old daughter, Amy, and has promised to kill her unless Eddie takes his case and wins. Eddie has less than 48 hours to come up with a plan. Eddie's marriage disintegrated due to his former job and the fact that he freed a criminal who went on to harm the victim again. Eddie couldn't handle it and quit the law, but now, he must put on his best performance to save his daughter. First in a series, I look forward to reading more.
Rose
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
Neurosurgeon Paul Kalanithi has trained for years to achieve his dream, only to find that he has tumors throughout his body and he can't overcome the cancer. He writes a heartfelt memoir of his journey, his marriage, and his friends. He also discusses how his diagnosis was initially missed.
The version I read also had a beautiful intro by Abraham Verghese, and an epilogue by Kalanithi's wife, giving additional insight into the man he was, and how his presence is missed.
Rose
Hercule Poirot's Christmas by Agatha Christie
As a family gathers for Christmas, some unexpected guests arrive. When the patriarch is later found dead, everyone is a suspect. Hercule Poirot notices some irregularities about who would benefit from the death. When the body is discovered, it is puzzling, as the door is locked from the inside, making it a closed room mystery. I can never figure out these mysteries!
Rose
The Little Café in Copenhagen by Julie Caplin
Kate is a publicist and believes that she will be getting a promotion, but her boyfriend, Josh, gets it instead. Blindsided by Josh, she needs an escape. Her boss offers her the chance to do a public relations launch for a Danish store, and Kate agrees. She must learn the art of hygge and let everyone know it is more than candles and blankets. Lars, the owner, has a stipulation: Kate must invite six journalists to Copenhagen with her. Ben is a sullen journalist who has no time for publicists but is forced to go. Kate also finds solace working with Lars's mother in her cafe. Kate realizes that she misjudged Ben, and she also finds her purpose in the cafe. A cute romance.
Rose
Granite Harbor by Peter Nichols
Gory mystery. A teen boy is found dead with a toad inside of him. The police chief's daughter was friends with him and his two other friends, and he is very concerned with her safety, and more so, who is committing the crimes. As another one of the trio of boys is found dead in the same manner, and information comes to light about a similar murder years earlier, the chief and his team realize a serial killer is loose. Fortunately, a mom of one of the boys has a bit of psychic visions and the mom of the girl tracks her phone. Together the community discovers the truth about the troubled man and his past. A very strange, odd mystery!
Betty Jo
Paper Girl: A Memoir of Home and Family in a Fractured America by Beth Macy
She does it again using her hometown of Urbana, Ohio to tell a bigger story of rural America in 2025.
Beth
The Secret History by Donna Tartt
THE SECRET HISTORY is Donna Tartt's first book, apparently written while she was still in school. This is hard to believe. The writer seems to be a master, an old pro. Some readers have even said it is or will be a classic. Richard is a Californian who has come to a small college in Vermont, where he studies Greek in a class with five other students, Harry, Francis, twins Charles and Camilla (I still don't know what to think of those two name choices), and Bunny (a male nickname). Richard becomes close with them, so close it is to the exclusion of all others, too close. Their story involves a murder, which leads to another murder, which leads to a suicide. This is a book you might want to reread.
Maureen
The Wedding People by Alison Espach
Witty and funny with some great characters.
MARILYN
The God of the Woods by Liz Moore
This truly was a captivating read, recommended to me by a friend. One reader described it as a brilliant fox trap. I would have to agree. There are many characters to keep track of, but they will stay with the reader for a long time. THE GOD OF THE WOODS is truly a family tale of deception, finding oneself, the aftermath of tragedy and unresolved grief.
Ame
Automatic Noodle by Annalee Newitz
Great, funny read.
Sharon A Phelps
One Thousand White Women: The Journals of May Dodd by Jim Fergus
This book was based on a true story about what the U.S. government did to try to assimilate native Americans with White Americans by sending 1,000 White women to marry, live, and raise their children among the native Americans. Many of these women were massacred anyway by other tribal warfare or even by U.S. soldiers.
Sharon A
The Book Club for Troublesome Women by Marie Bostwick
This book spoke to me as it reflected the reality of what women were expected to do in the '60s and how each of the women in the book club were coping with those expectations. I graduated high school in 1963 and felt these women were my friends and neighbors of that time frame. Women were supposed to be content staying home, cooking beautiful dinners for their husbands and taking care of the children and housekeeping. They were never supposed to have careers of their own.
Lesley
Last Christmas in Paris by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb
At times sad but always full of hope, this epistolary novel follows WWI from start to finish through letters. Letters between siblings, friends, friends wanting to be more, family, while giving very realistic descriptions of the war that was meant to end all wars. A really interesting and sweet story. Christmas plays a role, but I wouldn't say it plays a major one.
Barbara
The Academy by Elin Hildebrand and Shelby Cunningham
This novel was written by Ms Hildebrand and her daughter. It takes place in an east coast high school boarding school. I found it very slow and uninteresting. I did finish it, but was ready to give it up several times.
Sheila
Heartwood by Amity Gaige
I couldn't put it down. One of the best books I've read this year. The setting, characters, and side stories all add up to a great book!
Melanie
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
One of the most moving books I've read in a long time. This is my favorite of all Mr. Backman's books. I am recommending it to everyone, and my book group will be discussing it in December!
Gabriel
The Last Gifts of the Universe by Riley August
THE LAST GIFTS OF THE UNIVERSE was primarily an exploration of loss and grief strung together by a scavenger hunt across the galaxy. Scout’s connection to Blyreena through the shared experience of loss of a loved one – Scout’s mother and Blyreena’s partner – drove much of the story. Unfortunately, I found it hard to feel deeply or become invested in these characters, particularly during Scout’s side of the story. Blyreena’s life story was simple, but poignant; however, Scout’s didn’t really do anything for me except in a few moments near the end.
Rose
Happy Wife by Meredith Lavender and Kendall Shores
3.5 rounded down to 3 of 5 stars. Nora meets attractive, divorced father/attorney Will while she is working at a country club. He is instantly enamored with her and after a short courtship they marry. After celebrating his birthday, Nora and Will are headed to bed, when Will receives a phone call from his daughter, Mia, asking him to get her sweatshirt from the boat dock. Will never returns. An investigation into Will's disappearance ensues, and while Nora isn't initially a suspect, the community has never fully accepted her. After some poor choices, Nora hears bad press about herself, but she is determined to find the truth. As more info comes to light, Nora realizes that all is not what it seemed with Will's friends and law firm.
Rose
The Prized Girl by Amy K. Green
I couldn't wait for this book to end. Virginia is an unlikable main character. Her younger half-sister, Jenny, a teen/child beauty pageant queen, has been found dead. Virginia has always been a bit jealous of Jenny and the attention their father showed Jenny. It comes to light that the local high school math teacher, Mark Renkin, had a years-long affair with Virginia when she was a teen. Now, the guidance counselor is seeing him. It was never explained why Jenny was so unhappy, but I guess it was the pressure of being the perfect girl. There are many suspects, but the whole mystery was full of creepy characters and had an "ick" factor about it.
Kim
The Wedding Witch by Erin Sterling
This romantic fantasy is a page-turner. Our main characters fall in love, although a witch should not date a non-witch. Unfortunately, time travel puts the pair in great peril. Delightful characters fill the pages and the beauty of the Yuletide is ever present. It’s a beautiful love story.
Kim
Three Holidays and a wedding by Uzma Jalaluddin
This is perfect holiday love story. Passengers on a flight from Denver to Toronto find themselves stranded in a small Eastern Ontario town as a snowstorm overtakes the province. Plans are thwarted but the group and their host turn work together to make the best of their situation. It’s delightful, hopeful and heartwarming.
Kim
A Bellwether Christmas by Laurel Guillen
This Christmas storybook is for all ages. Through the eyes of farm animals, the author retells the Christmas story. The villagers, shepherds and creatures grow to appreciate and praise the Creator. It’s lovely.
Tessa
What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman
Lippman is known for her Tess Monaghan mysteries, but this is a stand-alone novel unrelated to the series. She’s a marvelous plotter, with many twists and turns to keep the reader (and the detectives) guessing. I didn’t figure out the core mystery any sooner than Lippman revealed it. I did find the dual timeline somewhat confusing in places, but that was more related to my own lack of attention than to Lippman’s writing.
Donna
Bone Valley: A True Story of Injustice and Redemption in the Heart of Florida by Gilbert King
If you enjoy nonfiction, I have a fascinating read to add to your tbr list, BONE VALLEY: A TRUE STORY OF JUSTICE AND REDEMPTION IN THE HEART OF FLORIDA. This is the true account of an innocent Leo Schofield being held in prison for over thirty years, accused of murdering his young wife. It’s a closer look at the Florida justice system which did all it could to uphold Schofield’s conviction despite having evidence to the contrary. Through all of this, Schofield’s grace is immeasurable. Infuriating, heartbreaking and eventually hopeful, this is a page-turner.
Liz
The Mad Wife by Meagan Church
Lulu and Henry have a seemingly perfect life. It’s the 1950s and things are very Stepford-like in the neighborhood where they live. All the wives dress up every day, make wonderful meals for their husbands and they are all on the same schedule for everything: shopping, cleaning and even errands. After their second child is born things begin to unravel for Lulu. She becomes obsessed with a new neighbor, Bitsy, who is moving in across the street. Lulu’s actions become quite questionable in the neighborhood and things take a turn for the worse for Lulu. Thanks NetGalley for this very good audiobook.
Liz
Hello Beautiful by Ann Napolitano
The Padavano’s are a very close knit family. The four sisters are so close it’s almost as if they don’t need anyone else outsiders in their life. However, as they get older the dynamics start to change. Julia has a definite plan for her life, Sylvie is looking for the man of her dreams, and the twins, Emeline is the one who looks after them all and Cecelia is a very talented artist. When Julia brings William into the fold, they welcome him with open arms. But circumstances and people change. Over the course of several years there is love, laughter and most importantly forgiveness.
Sandy
The Only One Left by Riley Sager
Very unusual story. The Hope family murders shocked the Maine coast in 1929. While most people assume that 17-year-old Lenora was the murderer, the police could not prove it. Now it is 1983 and home healthcare aide Kit McDeere arrives to care for Lenora after her previous nurse left in the middle of the night. Remember this, no one is who you think they are. What an ending!
Carol
The Last Letter of Rachel Ellsworth by Barbara O’Neal
The story of a daughter and mother and the daughter's travel to London, Paris and Bangladesh in hope of understanding her mother’s younger life. There is trauma, found family and discovery in this story. I liked the characters and was rooting for them until the end. Written well, and enjoyable.
Rose
Among Friends by Hal Ebbott
Amos and Emerson have been friends for 50 years. While on vacation at Emerson's home, something happens to Amos's teen daughter. This causes a rift between each couple and more so, the best friends. It is an examination of the years of friendship and trust. Who and what do you value most? What relationships are most meaningful and what will you do to preserve them? Interesting.
Linda
Remain by Nicholas Sparks with M. Night Shyamalan
A supernatural mystery and love story that I really enjoyed reading.
Linda
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
Highly recommend this novel. Love this quote from story, "The things that we love tell us what we are."
Debra
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
The setting, the backdrop of WWII and then the Vietnam War, the far-from-perfect characters, who at times I didn't understand or like - it all worked for me.
Abby
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
Very much recommend this book with its well-written characters and intense, edge-of-your-seat writing. Will this family survive their remaining time on an otherwise uninhabited island near Antarctica before the ship comes to retrieve them in the coming months? And who is this woman who has washed up on the island and where did she come from?
Debbie
Margo's Cafe by Tom Milton
So many writers turn to the problems that senior citizens face: poverty, high real estate taxes, loss of income, and location and availability of housing. Enter Margo, a 71-year-old woman, living in her family’s home. But, Margo struggles to pay her real estate taxes and the rent of her café. Margo’s daughter and granddaughter also live in this family home. But Margo’s daughter, Lindsey, works in a low paying job, and her granddaughter, Keira, has learning disabilities. The family house belongs to Margo and her three siblings, who do not help in paying the taxes nor in repairs. Again, I feel the author presents all doom and gloom, and where is the Hayley Mills Pollyanna mentality of stressing the optimistic approach to life?
Debbie
The Christie Affair by Nina de Gramont
Agatha Christie’s books provide hours of entertainment for me. I eagerly looked forward to a fictional account of Agatha’s disappearance in December 1926. THE CHRISTIE AFFAIR by Nina de Gramont greatly disappointed me. The narrator of the story, Nan O’Dea, takes too many liberties in the telling of her romance with Archie Christie, Agatha’s husband. The actual story involves Archie asking for a divorce from Agatha in 1926, so he can marry Nancy Neele. THE CHRISTIE AFFAIR presents Agatha as a clinging, unromantic woman and displays Nan as the woman who will do anything to please her lover. The story hinges on the tawdry and casts Agatha as a weak woman.
krisite
The Unraveling of Julia by Lisa Scottoline
Great adventures, with astrology wrapped into the book. Great read - A plus!!
Cynthia
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
An epistolary novel, my favorite form of novel, with a bit of a mystery to it. Who is sending our heroine hate mail? I loved reading the letters that detailed Sybil Van Antwerp's life and will hold her story near to my heart for some time to come.
Francisca
Eight Flavors by Sarah Lohman
Subtitle: The Untold Story of American Cuisine. Each chapter deals with a different flavor, beginning with black pepper, the oldest, to sriracha, the most recent. In each, Lohman gives the history of how that flavor was introduced and ultimately was adopted by home cooks throughout the nation. I’m so glad my F2F book club chose this as a monthly selection!
Rebecca
The Deal of a Lifetime by Fredrik Backman
A wealthy businessman sees the son he has neglected during their lifetimes. A cancer-ridden little girl lies nearby in a hospital bed, knowing that she has not long to live. Can a mysterious woman with a folder help the two come together to help each come to a resolution involving them both? This is a heartfelt story provoking thoughts of, "What would I choose to do to help?"
Beth
The Many Lives of Mama Love by Lara Love Hardin
I loved this book from the get-go. Then to find out Lara was a contributing writer to another of my all-time favorite books, THE SUN DOES SHINE. High praise for this memoir.
Roseann
All the Other Mothers Hate Me by Sarah Harman
The book was a book club book. Think this book needed to be a bit more work towards the very end. Overall, the storyline was very good. Mystery content of the story was definitely a page-turner. I would definitely recommend this book.
Luella
Holy Ghost by John Sandford
Great read. One of my favorite books in the Virgil Flowers series. It has multiple mysteries with multiple possible suspects. All dealt with a good dose of humor.
Holly
King Sorrow by Joe Hill
KING SORROW is deeply insightful with layers of complexity packaged in a modern-day dragon tale. This epic story follows the lives of six friends from college to middle age after they make a deal with a dragon. Sacrifice and changing loyalties prove deadly.
Holly
Good Spirits by B.K. Borison
A romance for the most wonderful time of the year. I cannot resist a "Christmas Carol" spinoff. In this modern-day love story, the Spirit of Christmas Past and his “hauntee” fall for each other against the backdrop of a wintry Annapolis, Maryland. Bolstered by a steady supply of candy canes and hot chocolate, the couple visit the past and help heal each other’s trauma.
Christina
L.A. Women by Ella Berman
I enjoyed this book. It was a bit dry at the beginning, but it picked up midway through the story. It's about a writer in L.A. and two friendships that develop after she arrives there. She had a sad upbringing that has affected her adult relationships with her friends, husband and children.
Christina
Full Bloom by Francesca Serritella
When I started reading this book, I thought it was going to be a simple romance story. But it turns out there is a little mystery as well, along with a woman trying to find love. It has an interesting storyline with a little fantasy added in with a magical perfume that Iris was given. I also enjoyed the subplots.
Christina
The Float Test by Lynn Steger Strong
Written from the perspective of one of the family members, THE FLOAT TEST has a good storyline. But in some instances, the book didn’t make sense to me as it seemed to switch to being told by another family member. I found it very confusing and took away from the story.
Christina
Moderation by Elaine Castillo
This book was just not for me. I enjoyed the sections dealing with Girlie and her family, but when the story delved into virtual reality, it lost my interest. However, if you’re a gamer and into VR, you may enjoy the book. It did make me think more about who is watching the conduct of users of various platforms on the internet. I never thought much about who actually does this and the psychological effects it could have on a person.
Christina
Far and Away by Amy Poeppel
I was looking forward to this book as I really enjoyed the author’s previous book, THE SWEET SPOT. I was not disappointed. It focuses on the lives of two women --- one in Dallas, Texas, and the other in Berlin, Germany --- who, for various reasons, end up swapping residences. They try to find happiness in their lives. Similar to her last novel, there are a number of interesting characters here and several humorous scenes. This is another winner from Amy Poeppel. And I loved the ending!
Christina
Mrs. Endicott's Splendid Adventure by Rhys Bowen
This was a very enjoyable read about three women who travel to France in hopes of a better life. They end up in a small village and create a life for themselves and find joy that they have been missing in their lives in England. The book takes place right before and during World War II. There were interesting characters throughout the book and a little romance.
Christina
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
I just finished BUCKEYE by Patrick Ryan. What a story! It's about two families in the fictional town of Bonhomie, Ohio, that takes place over 40 years starting from World War II. The book details the relationship between two married couples and the relationship formed between their sons. It focuses on the secrets kept by the two couples and the effect it has on them and their children. It is a powerful story and covers many different topics important at that time and now in the current day. The characters are complex and interesting, and the drama surrounding “the secrets” kept my attention throughout. It is a heartbreaking tale but well worth the read.
Roxann
Calder Strong by Janet Dailey
It's 1929 in Blue Moon, Montana. Joseph Dollarhide, whose father Blake has been injured in a horrific accident, is struggling to find his place as the future head of his ranching family. There's intrigue with a bootlegging ring and a rekindling of feelings for an ex-girlfriend from years ago. Those feelings are complicated since she is now married with two children to a local farmer...and the oldest, a boy, looks a lot like Joseph. The book has many interesting characters, some from previous books in the series and some new, and a plot that will keep you engaged. An enjoyable read and a great addition to this series.
