This contest period's winners were Rosemary B. from Virginia Beach, VA; Sharon C. from North Haven, CT; and Sharon G. from San Diego, CA. Each received a copy of ANATOMY OF AN ALIBI by Ashley Elston and STRANGERS: A Memoir of Marriage by Belle Burden.
Beth
The Gales of November by John U. Bacon
2025, the year THE GALES OF NOVEMBER was published, in particular November 10, 2025, marked 50 years since the Great Lakes ship Edmund Fitzgerald, along with her entire crew of 29 men, went missing, to be found later at the bottom of Lake Superior. This book is John U. Bacon's most excellent retelling of the wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald, including some history of Great Lakes shipping and ship wrecks, the sailors lives onboard and off the ship, possible reasons for the wreck, the search for the ship, and the aftermath. Many facts here may surprise you, especially if you aren't familiar with the Great Lakes (such as with their size), but even if you are.
Susan
James by Percival Everett
I enjoyed reading Jim's version of the treatment of enslaved people and the psychological effects it had. The characters were very relatable to the story. I did not think I would enjoy this book but was pleasantly surprised at how much I did.
Mitra
The Widow by John Grisham
This was an unusual book by John Grisham in that it was a crime fiction. Lawyers are involved as was a trial but it was basically a ‘Who Done It’. As usual, it was a very well-written book that was hard to put down. It was about a small town lawyer which Grisham does so well. Without giving away too much, this lawyer ends up being a defendant rather than the lawyer. Well worth reading.
Suzanne
Nash Falls by David Baldacci
This book had me riveted, and now I have to wait to know the outcome! What a cliffhanger!
Jayme
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
THE CORRESPONDENT is an epistolary novel. The letter writing is interesting because we don't know the background and truth about several key events until we read all the letters. At first, I thought Sybil was a prickly elderly woman and I cringed regarding some of her responses, but by the end of the book I was her biggest fan as a few tears fell. This book is the “sleeper of the year”.
Wanda
Beyond Control by Kat Martin
Suspense thriller at its best!! With some romance in this storyline it’s not a book you can put down easily. Page-turner to keep the story going and wondering how will this turn out. Great work with this one!! I love her writing skills.
Nancy
Nash Falls by David Baldacci
Am I the only one who loves David Baldacci but didn't like this book? It's on all the bestseller lists, so maybe that's the case. I've read everything he has written, and this is the only one that I repeatedly wanted to stop reading. Didn't like the premise, didn't like the characters, didn't like the storyline and really disliked the ending. Other than that, Mrs. Lincoln, how did you like the play?
jana
The Perfect Hosts by Heather Gudenkauf
Loved this twisty book by Heather.
MH
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Although I’m tired of books where someone finds old letters or a diary, this book employed a fresh take on the epistle style of writing. I thoroughly enjoyed the humor of the protagonist’s letters, and the acts of charity she did were inspirational. I urge everyone to give this book a try.
Betty Jo
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Lovely read for my book club. It lived up to the hype, and I enjoyed Sybil and Theodore.
Betty Jo
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzen
I listed to the audiobook of this one and was reminded that aging is not for the faint of heart. Bo's story is one which has stayed with me, and that is what I hope when reading a good book. Reflecting on one's long life at 90 is a full story.
Luella
My Amish Childhood by Jerry S. Eicher
Was a good book, but very slow going. It was about his family going to Honduras. Started a colony from nothing and left when it failed.
Betty Jo
Beard: A Memoir of a Marriage by Kelly Foster Lundquist
The story of Lundquist's first marriage, to her best friend who happens to be gay. This memoir is so very interesting and tells a common story of love in the unique ways we all feel.
Debbie
The Lawnmower Lady by Edith Forbes
Many different views on THE LAWNMOWER LADY, a story narrated by the recently deceased Fay Kirkwood. The story details Fay life and her sudden death. Dryden, an adopted niece, finds Fay dead near the pigs' pen. Fay had told everyone that she wished to be taken to the woods and left for the animals to devour her body. Dryden succeeds in taking Fay to the woods and havoc jumps into this seemingly loving event. Dryden needs a death certificate, and Fay’s sister-in-law must rule the events. Fay, in her death, reveals the citizens of the community. These stories remind the reader of SPOON RIVER ANTHOLOGY by Edgar Lee Masters and WINESBURG, OHIO by Sherwood Anderson. The detail of the various characters shows uncanny details.
Sharon
Love Marriage by Monica Ali
Although there were some parts of the book that were concerning about relationships, I found this an engrossing read because of the complex personalities of the characters and surprises regarding cultural expectations and human discovery.
Maureen
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Best book I’ve read in a long time! Love the epistolary form and the main character. Highly recommended!
Gerry
The Boy, the Mole, the Fox, and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
My first book of 2026 was a picture book that I hesitate to call a children's book, as the author recommends it for all readers from 8 to 80. It's a book of drawings and aphorisms, a story about four creatures coming together, learning about themselves, and sharing a friendship that enriches all of their lives. A sweet start to the new year! 3-1/2 stars, rounded up.
Gerry
The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris by Evie Woods
What started out as a coming-of-age/romance with some ghostly overtones turned out to include a good historical backstory about events in the village of Compiègne, France. Edith Lane, a young Irish woman, has long wanted to leave her hometown for the wider world, and after the death of her mother, is finally free to do so. When she sees an ad for an English-speaking assistant at a bakery in Paris, she believes she's found the perfect position. The actual job, however, turns out not to be what she anticipated, but reluctant to admit that and return home, she remains in France where she finds a community of people who are willing to embrace her once she opens her heart to them.
Gerry
The Door-to-Door Bookstore by Carsten Henn
Carl has worked for years in his best friend's bookstore. But now his friend is in a nursing home, nearing the end of his life, and the bookstore is being run by his middle-aged daughter, who has no respect for Carl's work, delivering books to patrons who prefer not to come to the shop. She'd like to discontinue the delivery service altogether and presses Carl to tell his patrons they'll need to come into the shop to get their books. But this delivery job is Carl's lifeline, the only thing that connects him with others, until a nine-year-old girl full of curiosity and questions begins to accompany him on his rounds. Their connection was delightful to witness and brought the book to a very touching conclusion.
Gerry
Remarkable Creatures by Tracy Chevalier
3-1/2 stars. Because this novel had been recommended to me as a fictional biography of Mary Anning, I was initially disconcerted that so much of the book focused on Elizabeth Philpot. But the two were actually friends and colleagues who shared a deep interest in the natural world, and especially in fossils of various kinds that they found on the shores of Lyme Regis along the English Channel in the first half of the nineteenth century. Although the male-dominated scientific community of that time was loathe to credit the women for their discoveries, both have since been recognized for their valuable contributions to the field of paleontology. The novel was well written and mostly engaging throughout.
Gerry
Heartwood by Amity Gage
4-1/2 stars. HEARTWOOD is a blend of mother-daughter story, adventure story, personal discovery, and mystery. Valerie has challenged herself to hike the 2000-mile northern half of the Appalachian Trail, from Pennsylvania into Maine, over the objections of her husband and her parents. Some 200 miles from her goal, she suddenly disappears, and fails to show up at the trail marker where her husband was to meet her. The novel, wonderfully narrated by a cast of readers, takes its readers on a gripping journey as search and rescue teams race against time to find her. That narrative is interspersed with segments of Valerie's journal of lyrical letters to her mother. Interesting, well-developed characters made this novel a joy to read.
Gerry
How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Deeply and Being Seen by David Brooks
2-1/2 stars, rounded up. My purpose in reading this book, written by a journalist whose articles I have often read in The Atlantic and elsewhere, was to find ways to develop and improve my conversational skills, to learn to listen and respond to others in a way that would help us get beyond the superficial and communicate more deeply. I was not completely satisfied that this book fulfilled its stated purpose, which fit perfectly with mine. Brooks included so many interesting anecdotes to illustrate his points that I found myself getting lost in his stories and missing or not fully grasping the point he sought to illustrate. But he did inspire me to continue to work towards my goal, convincing me that improvement is possible with effort.
Gerry
The Death of Ivan Ilych by Leo Tolstoy
Having chosen this short novel for a challenge prompt requiring a book written in the 1800s, I was pleasantly surprised by how accessible and interesting it was. It opens with a scene in which colleagues of Ivan Ilych receive word of his death, and their immediate reaction is to begin considering the changes in their own situations that may result as his position is filled by a successor. Very quickly, the book returns to an earlier time in Ivan's life and takes the reader through its major events: his marriage, the births of his children, several job changes and moves, and on up to the moment when he suffers a fall. His ruminations on his pain and suffering and his impending death form the bulk of the novel. I'm glad I read this classic.
Gerry
The Seven Sisters by Lucinda Riley
This novel about one of six adopted daughters of a wealthy man searching for her roots after his death is not a badly written book, but not a book for me. Though classified as historical fiction, it’s far more fiction than history, and primarily focused on the romance trope of star-crossed lovers. I found myself skimming the last hundred or so pages just to get to the end, only to realize it was moving towards yet another romance. It's the first of a series, each focused on one of the daughters undertaking a similar search, but I don't plan to explore the series any further.
Gerry
We by Yevgeny Zamyatin
WE, is a dystopian novel that depicts a totalitarian "OneState" where individuality is suppressed by mathematical logic and constant surveillance. I listened to the audiobook, which included, in addition to the novel itself, an introduction by Margaret Atwood, and two closing essays by George Orwell (a review he wrote in 1946) and Ursula K. LeGuin (written as a series of "sketches" for a sci-fi novel in 1973-77), which I found even more engaging and informative than the novel itself. 3 stars for the novel, but I'm adding one more for the excellent supplementary essays.
Pam
The Teacher by Frieda McFadden
Fast, easy read.
Aida
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Reading only letters is not my favorite writing style. Author did a great job of telling the story and building characters with it.
Jeanne
Once Upon a Holidate by Susan Mallery
ONCE UPON A HOLIDATE by Susan Mallery is a heartwarming, delightful holiday read centered around a dual storyline involving an estranged father (Garrick) and his pregnant daughter (Joslyn) and the undeniable attraction between Garrick and his neighbor Wynn. I really enjoyed reading this, but felt like it was too short and ended too soon. I would have preferred to see Garrett and Wynn get married and possibly be expecting twins. Much to my surprise, also included was another holiday short story, "A Very Merry Christmas", which was enjoyable to read.
Donna
Welcome to the Family by Cathryn Grant
A Riley has protected her younger sister, Claudia, since they were children from their abusive alcoholic mother. They are extremely close and contact each other regularly. Claudia falls in love and becomes engaged. Her fiancé is very close to his family and takes Claudia to meet them and plan the wedding. She immediately realizes that she’s an outsider and that the family resents her. She discovers that terrible things have happened in this household and that she has no way to leave the property. Claudia has sent emails to Riley and expresses her concerns. When the emails end, Riley is determined to find out what happened to Claudia. The characters in this novel are all broken and dysfunctional and it keeps you guessing.
Donna
Lady Tan’s Circle of Women by Lisa See
15th Century, China: Yunxian is a young child bring raised by her grandparents. Her grandmother is one of a few female doctors in China due to women being considered of no value. There are great limitations of what they can do, and their practice pertains to women’s health. Yunxian’s grandmother instructs and trains her in Chinese medicine. When Yunxian comes of age, she enters an arranged marriage and is sent to live in her husband’s home. Her duty is to be a proper wife and never leave the property. She manages to help many women because of her expertise in female care. The author did extensive research in an effort to describe Yunxian’s life and experiences throughout her lifetime. Her books are exquisite in detail.
Donna
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
1920s-1970s in a small town in Ohio. The lives of the members of the Jenkin and Salt families become intertwined as the novel progresses. It begins with friendship followed by a betrayal and then forgiveness throughout the years with life changing events. This novel touched me as I am near 90 years old and have lived my entire life in Columbus. I recognize and have have experienced many of the locations and events that take place in this story. This novel is very special for me.
Donna
All of This Could Be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan
Tessa’s dream as a youngster was to become a writer. She is happily married with two children when her dream comes true and she’s scheduled to begin a book tour of her first novel, which is a bestseller. As a writer, before starting the tour, she signs a full disclosure form that there isn’t anything in her past that could harm her or her reputation. Tessa has a couple of secrets that she doesn’t disclose because she’s only told one person when she was a teenager who promised to never tell anyone. As Tessa starts her tour, some bizarre things begin to happen to her. At each book presentation a personal question is asked during the Q & A that indicates someone knows her secrets. If a secret is exposed she could lose everything.
Donna
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Tova, a 70 year old widow, is grieving the recent loss of her husband and a son whose body was never found 30 years ago. Cameron was raised by his aunt because his mother abandoned him when he was a child. Marcellus is a rescue octopus at the local aquarium. These are the three main characters of this story. Tova works as a cleaner at the aquarium and loves her job and all the animals, especially Marcellus. Cameron is determined his life will improve if he can locate his father. His research brings him to Sowell Bay on the Pacific. Tova twists her ankle and Cameron fills in until she returns. Marcellus has the life span of 4 years and he is dying. He is intelligent, understands, has a connection with Tova and is on a mission to help her.
Donna
The Children of the Roses by Warren Adler
This book is a sequel to the movie "The War of the Roses." Josh and Evie Rose were children when their parents died. Josh married Victoria who also came from a dysfunctional family. They had made a promise to each other that honesty and faithfulness would be a top priority for them and their children, Michael and Emily. Their commitment to each other fell apart when actions and lies were exposed. Trust was broken and divorce was the only recourse. Michael and Emily wanted the family to stay intact.
Donna
The Wives of Hawthorne Lane by Stephanie DeCarolis
Georgina, Audrey, Libby, Hannah and their families live on an exclusive and desirable street in their town. Each woman has a different history that includes secrets. They are friendly, though not best friends with each other. Each year, an extravagant Halloween festival takes place. This year a dead man is found in the woods. The four families lives become intertwined and the secrets come to the surface. Georgiana, Audrey, Libby and Hannah join forces during the investigation. This is a twisted novel that includes mental and physical violence.
Donna
Isola by Allegra Goodman
1500’s France. Marguerite de la Rocque de Roberval is orphaned and from a royal family. Her uncle is her guardian and is obsessed with the desire to discover land and creating a colony he would call New France. He uses Marguerite’s inheritance to buy ships to follow his dream. He decides to take her with him and discovers she and his assistant have fallen in love. As punishment, he abandons them along with her nurse on a granite uninhabitable island. Marguerite has lived the life of luxury and has no experience with hardship. Over the course of two years, through the loss of her lover, an infant child and her nurse, she is forced to survive on her own based on what she has experienced.
Donna
The Ten Year Affair by Erin Somers
Cora is married, has a teenage daughter, a depressing job and a new baby. She joins a baby class for a distraction. Sam, is a neighbor and the only male in the class. They develop a friendship that gradually evolves into an emotional fantasy. With each encounter, Cora fantasies a romantic affair with Sam. After a long period the fantasy becomes a reality and decisions must be made. This is a fun book to read with the the switching from reality and fantasy.
Donna
The Widow by John Grisham
Simon Latch is an attorney, married with three children, in a small town Virginia. His life is spinning out of control due to a marriage that is doomed and massive unpaid bills due to gambling. An 85- year-old lady enters his office and wants a new will. She has no relatives or friends and wants to protect her extreme wealth from two stepsons from a previous marriage. Simon is a good lawyer and he sees his chance to solve his money problems. He finds that this client is very frugal and secretive about her finances and is having difficulty getting the information he needs to write her will. His client is in an automobile accident and hospitalized with non-life-threatening injuries and she dies. Simon is found guilty of her murder.
Elizabeth
What We Can Know by Ian McEwan
I listened to this book. I think I would have gotten more out of it if I had read it. The first part takes place about one hundred years from now. The way the world has changed due to climate change is interesting and disturbing. A humanities professor is seeking a lost poem from a once famous poet who made only one copy and gave it to his wife. The second half of the book takes place in the 21st century and is told from that wife's point of view. I did not like the ending.
Donna
The Infamous Gilberts by Angela Tomaski
Thornwalk is an old English Manor that is in decay and has been sold and will be converted into a hotel. It has been owned and lived in by the Gilbert family ancestors for over 100 years. Hugo Gilbert has lived in the manor his entire life. His mother and four siblings had moved on with their lives. Maximus is Hugo’s best friend and feels it’s his duty to be with him and the property until their end. He takes the reader on a guided tour of the property before the takeover of the hotel. We enter into each room and he describes the furnishings along with a detailed story of the cause of each tear, scratch and stain. He tells us about the history, relationships, struggles and tragedies of the family members.
Donna
What We Did That Night by Marnie Vinge
Tash has spent three years in fear and is trying to build a new life after escaping from a terrifying relationship with a man she was in love with who was cruel and abusive. She has built a life as a jiu- jitsu instructor and is dedicated to helping women learn how to protect themselves. Her past catches up with her when photos of her naked appear on websites and emails sent to friends. She knows that this man is evil and only she can protect herself. She is a stronger woman now and won’t be stopped. This novel includes sex, S & M, abuse and survival.
Donna
I See You’ve Called in Dead by John Kenney
Bud Stanley is in his mid-forties and writes obituaries for a newspaper. He has a marvelous sense of humor but his life is spiraling out of his control. His wife has left him and his job isn’t satisfying. After being stood up on a blind date he spends the evening drinking. He decides to write his own obituary and its filled with foolish lies. Bud, accidentally sends it out to be published. He can’t retract it and will lose his job because of it. Bud becomes friends with a couple of strangers. Claire likes to attend wakes and funerals of random people and encourages him to try it. He becomes best friends with Tim, who has lost the use of the lower half of his body and is renting a room to Bud. These relationships give Bud new insights.
Donna
Not Quite Dead Yet by Holly Jackson
While living at home with her parents, Jet is attacked and hit on the head multiple times. The doctor tells her an aneurysm is forming and she only has a week to live. She tries to solve her own murder. The book moves along quickly and I enjoyed the premise and the writing.
Denise
Nobody's Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre
Such a hard read but so, so important. No one should EVER have to go through what Virginia did as a child or as an adult. At times I had to put the book down and read something lighter. I'm so glad I finished it though. If you can make it past the first half of her life's tragic events, you will be enlightened at the process of her journey to confront and expose people who took terrible advantage of her and why it is so necessary to not cover up the truth of what happens to innocent children and young adults. A powerful book from a voice that needed to be heard from her. This is her story.
Rosa
Family of Spies by Christine Kuehn
This is the astounding story of the Otto and Friedel Kuehn, husband and wife from Germany who moved with their family to Hawaii to work as spies for the Nazis. The story is told by Christine Kuehn, granddaughter of Otto and Friedel, who did not know of her family's past until she received a letter from a screenwriter in 1994. The screenwriter was writing a movie screenplay about WWII, and he wanted to interview Christine about her grandparents. This led to thirty years of research by Christine, poring through many, many documents to learn and make sense of what her family has kept hidden for decades. The author's storytelling is excellent, and even though I knew how it ends, I couldn't put the book down as it read like an espionage novel.
Sandra
Battle Mountain by C. J. Box
A great book in a great series. It was full of action with wonderful characters.
barbara
The Book Woman's Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
I really loved this story. It was written so that I felt I was there. The character Honey is amazing - so smart for such a young girl.
Lucy
Twice by Mitch Albom
Interesting premise where a boy has the chance to relive something that has happened in his life, but only once, and it cannot be undone.
Lynda
The Housemaid's Secret by Freida McFadden
Millie is a housemaid with a troubled past. She tries to hide her background so that she can find a job. She has good intentions, but things go horribly wrong with bosses who are also keeping secrets. Fun, page-turning thriller.
Mary
The Cyclist by Tim Sullivan
DS Cross is an interesting character, a detective who has Asperger's. Taking the journey with him to ferret out the criminal is a harrowing trip, but I enjoy seeing how his mind works. From his coworkers to the criminals themselves trying to figure what Cross is thinking is interesting and at time so funny. His deft detecting skills are a treat!
Rose
Heart the Lover by Lily King
A beautiful but haunting story of first love and how it never leaves you - the what ifs, the decisions made, the paths not taken. Casey Peabody is a college senior and her essay is chosen to be read by the professor. This draws the attention of two students, Sam and Yash. Sam and Casey, who the boys nickname Jordan, start dating. But, Sam has some strict religious ideas. Casey is drawn to Yash and they get together and are deeply in love. Something happens and years later, Casey is married with a family, yet is called back to be with Yash at a time when he needs her. Heartbreaking. Now I have to read WRITERS & LOVERS!
Rose
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
Theo is an enigmatic figure. He comes to the town of Golden and discovers a coffee shop with many pencil portraits. He decides to purchase several of these and bestow them on their likenesses. The small town of Golden initially doesn't know what to make of this elderly man but it all comes together. It is a story of kindness, of giving, of listening, and of love. The reveals at the end were part surprise and part not. Overall, a wonderful book. Lived up to the hype.
Barbara
Giants in the Earth by Ole Edvart Rolvaag
Classic tale of four immigrants from Norway in the 1870s who toil to make a new life for themselves in the very forbidding though beautiful Great Plains, S. Dakota. Focus is on one couple who are exact opposites in their attitudes. Husband is an enthusiastic optimist while wife borders on despair and near madness. Their supportive and faithful neighbors fill out the portraits of the bold "giants" who helped settle the U.S. Since this is a translation based on the author's experiences and those stories he heard from others of this time, it is a bit awkward in its prose, but the descriptions of the brutality of the winters and the beauty of the Plains, are compelling.
Luella
An Anonymous Girl by Greer Hendricks and Sarah Pekkanen
A creepy mystery that grabs your interest from the get-go. Did not want to put it down.
Janet
The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox
A fun read for Christmas.
Jean
A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian by Marina Lewycka
Two sisters are appalled when their 84-year-old widowed father becomes infatuated with a 36-year-old buxom woman and marries her. The woman falsely believes he is rich and manages to get what money he has. The sisters do everything in their power to get rid of the woman. Everyone has secrets; not all of them are revealed. The cover blurb describes the book as hilarious. I didn't find it particularly funny. It was hard keeping track of all the characters. The disgusting way the father and new wife lived is described in too much detail. I can't recommend the book.
Rose
Cursed Daughters by Oyinkan Braithwaite
When a woman marries an already married man, the first wife puts a curse on the second wife. The curse is that the Falodun family women are doomed to heartbreak and abandonment in love. The novel goes back and forth over time and tells the story of three women in the family. I liked the sotry of Monife the best, but she does have a tragic story. Then when Eniiyi is born, the family believes she is the reincarnation of Monife, as she resembles her. The other woman is Ebun who has her own troubles. There are many times when you think all is going to be okay, but then the worst happens. All throughout the novel, the characters have the curse hanging over them, but there is hope at the end. The story has roots in Nigerian folklore.
Rose
Haven't Killed in Years by Amy K. Green
Marin Haggerty's father was a serial killer and is now in prison. The sick part is that he would take her, at 9 years old, to the scenes to help. Now, 20 years later she has a new identity, Gwen Tanner, and her mother has just been released from prison, and people from Gwen/Marin's past are coming up dead. When she receives a package containing a severed arm, she knows that someone has discovered her new identity. Gwen decides to find the killer, but she can't trust anyone. She wonders if she is like her father, a murderer, or does she have some good in her? Gory and creepy, knowing how people have a dark sickness.
Brumby
The Bletchley Riddle by Ruta Sepetys
YA to middle school book. Loved the mystery.
Donna
The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins
Wow, this was definitely an amazing ride. It is awesome how authors can write such thrilling books! What people will do to find and keep love or even understand a relationship. This book will keep you reading quickly to the last page even with a new puppy licking your nose. No wonder it was a hit when it came out and in all the book clubs. This book has a lot to digest and dig into, and leaves you hanging in the end. Enjoy, this is a great read!
Debbie
The Locked Room by Elly Griffiths
Elly Griffiths writes an interesting mystery with vivid landscapes, but too many characters. This tome presents a story set during the Covid lock-down. This brought back sad memories of that desperate time for all countries. A medieval story illustrates what happened during medieval times. The village locks a young woman and her parents in a house to die due to having a plague. The present story hinges on a woman dying in her locked bedroom, but the room stands locked from outside. One of the main characters of the Ruth Galloway series falls ill and battles for his life. Ruth and Nelson continue their on-again-off-again romance. Many ups and downs in this adventure.
Nancy
Miss Benson's Beetle by Rachel Joyce
Story of a very unlikely friendship and a very big adventure. The author's development of Margery and Enid is interesting in a beautiful narrative full of misadventures, tragedy and joy; a wonderfully atmospheric, captivating, touching, vibrant, humorous and engaging read of faith, belief and hope.
Geri
A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst
I was intrigued by the story of Maralyn and Maurice who survived at sea for 118 days, but their story has been told already in their own words in their books so I didn’t feel the need to rewrite the narrative again. It was well written, and the love that Maralyn poured out on Maurice was wonderful, but Maurice was a difficult character to like! Their passion for a solitary life at sea was understandable and relatable, but I have to say to do it all again was just insane.
sharon
Heart the Lover by Lilly King
I loved every minute of this book. The opening drew me right in, and the writing and story carried me right through. I laughed and cried.
Joan
The Book Woman's Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
I had read the first book a couple of years ago. Main characters were very likeable.
Luella
Church of Lies by Flora Jessop
A true story of a young woman who was able to escape the FLDS cult. After she got her life together, she helped others to escape.
Pat
Becoming Madame Secretary by Stephanie Dray
Just finished this compelling book about Francine Perkins who was the first woman in a presidential cabinet serving under FDR. She was relentless in her efforts to research her data to support the need for social security as well as many other important needs that we take for granted today.
Kim
All the Broken Places by John Boyne
Whether to like or despise Gretel Fernsby? Is a child or a teenager responsible for the situation that they are in, and for their parents' sins? If the young person wanted to make a change or speak out, could they? I asked myself all of the questions above while reading this book. I enjoyed it and its perfect ending immensely.
Diane
This Book Will Bury Me by Ashley Winstead
Excellent read.
Dottie
The Story Keeper by Kelly Rimmer
The book has multiple timelines, the current-day of the protagonist’s life, the past as the protagonist remembers her own childhood and young adult life and the story within the novel the protagonist is reading. It is a story of murder, mystery, secrets, complex family relations, domestic abuse and is riveting, with the characters showing kindness, regret, love and devotion. Although it is somewhat predictable, Ms. Rimmer’s writing style is engaging; she makes it is easy to visualize the characters and settings, and she (at least for me) was able to awaken my emotions. I enjoyed listening to this book, wondering where the story was going and appreciate how Ms. Rimmer used the book to hopefully awaken people to a concealed problem.
Cindi
Pictures of Him by Clare Leslie Hall
A fascinating tale of first love and the tragedy of not understanding your own worth. Misunderstandings fracture this relationship until the very end when, alas, it’s too late.
Catherine
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Was very satisfied with this book. Lots of side stories, with beautiful characters and explanations.
Michael
The Guncle by Steven Rowley
This ended up being a delightful surprise! I don't do spoilers so I will only give the premise. An aging gay man takes temporary custody of his brother's two young kids. It started out a bit silly. He was shocked when the kids wouldn't understand a reference to a sitcom from the 70s or Judy Garland. This happens repeatedly. I started to feel like in real life someone would have wised up a lot quicker. It eventually moves on from that and becomes a fascinating portrait of the aging gay's life...which happens to include two young kids. That is when it really hooked me. It is a really sweet story (not completely without conflict, thank god) that I ended up really liking.
Judy
The Hitchhikers by Chevy Stevens
Very suspenseful, a trip gone terribly wrong.
Meghan
Pretty Vicious by Lexie Davis
This book is deliciously dark. I enjoyed the character development and flow of the story. The tension is palpable and is overwhelming at times. I can't wait to read Book 2.
Connie
All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker
Very sad but very thoughtful and meaningful.
Connie
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
Very sad at times but also many funny moments between the characters. This story was so meaningful I immediately reread it again.
Luella
The Perfect Nanny by Leila Slimani
This was a good read, and then something awful happens. I'm not sure what to think.
Lana
Mennonite Mystery by Michael D. Hankins
A member of my book club picked it as our January read. Self-published, it was written by someone who thinks he is a great writer and definitely is not. A total waste of time. I don’t know why I even finished it.
Lee
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
Excellent! One of Steinbeck's best.
Karishma
Their Double Lives by Jaime Lynn Hendricks
Dual timeline thriller with a satisfying ending.
Sandy
The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware
Very good, but I wish I had read THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10 first.
Rose
A Dangerous Business by Jane Smiley
During the years after the California Gold Rush began and her husband was murdered, Eliza heads to Monterey and begins work as a prostitute. The mistress tries to protect her employees, but they do receive a variety of male guests. Eliza meets Jane, and they become friends. When young women start disappearing, and are later found murdered, Eliza and Jane decide to solve the mystery themselves. The best thing I can say about this novel is that it was short.
Mary
Days You Were Mine by Clare Leslie Hall
I really enjoy the way the author presents the chapters in her book between "Now" and "Then". As with BROKEN COUNTRY, the story does not conclude until the very end of the book. Hall has become one of my favorite authors, and I hope she is at work on a new novel.
Lisa
The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave
The long-awaited sequel to THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME does not disappoint. Hannah and Bailey have left Sausalito behind after Owen’s sudden departure. Now in Los Angeles, Hannah spies Owen at an art gallery and realizes that her and Bailey are in danger. Lots of suspense in this book.
Linda
Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino
I really had to think what the ending was all about...
Linda
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
The author had an interesting way of telling the story of Beth, Gabriel and Frank.
Vicki
The Housemaid by Freida McFadden
I liked all the twists and turns and not knowing what would come next.
Linda
The Lost Baker of Vienna by Sharon Kurzman
This is a book you don't want to miss. If you like historical, it's a must-read, based on the author's mother, aunt, and grandmother's time during the war during WWII. This is such a good book. Very emotional but so beautifully written. It's obvious it was written with much love, right from the author's heart and soul.
Linda
Make It Out Alive by Allison Brennan
An action-packed story of intrigue and murder. This story keeps you guessing as you go through all that is happening. It's a very intense and edge-of-your-seat thriller. I never guessed this one though you are told up front who it is. A justification for murder by his partner. Never at fault. Always a victim seeking revenge.
Linda
The Bookbinder's Secret by A. D. Bell
I read this and listened to the audio. This book was excellent. A story to end all stories. What would you do for love? What would you do for the person you loved? This book will be in my top 12 for the years.
Linda
The Storm by Rachel Hawkins
Three best friends. One huge secret. Actually there are more than one but one is really huge. One that changes the course of these three girls/women's lives. Breaks their friendship bond. There was a few twists that I didn't see coming that made it even better.
Linda
The Red Winter by Cameron Sullivan
It's hard to believe this is a debut novel. While it had me totally confused throughout, it was still good. The last few chapters really came through. I finally understood pretty much what was going on. I was lost during a lot of this book. It had footnotes that really confused me for a bit, but am glad they were there now. I will read this one again so I can really enjoy it. I had a hard time with it this time. But it was still pretty good. The author did a good job with character development and descriptions of the areas.
Sonia
Mona’s Eyes by Thomas Schlesser
It’s the story of a bond between a grandfather and her granddaughter. She is losing her eyesight
and he decides that she should see beautiful things before she loses her eyesight. He takes her and us on an artistic adventure showing her famous paintings starting with of course her namesake, Mona Lisa. We learn the history of the artist and the meaning of the paintings. It’s a richly layered education blended into a story about an intelligent, curious girl whose perspective grows sharper and sharper.
Amy
The Road to Tender Hearts by Annie Hartnett
THE ROAD TO TENDER HEARTS is one of those quiet, heartfelt books. Annie Hartnett’s writing is warm, funny, and a little bittersweet, with characters that feel real and easy to root for. It’s a gentle, thoughtful read about love, loss, and finding connection in unexpected places.
Sally
Like Family by Erin O. White
Just finished this wonderful book which goes right to the heart of what family means and how our families grow and change and affect us. Every character felt like someone you would want to get to know...or maybe already know.
Jan
My Dark Vanessa by Kate Elizabeth Russell
Dark topic, well-written book. I could visualize this as a movie as I was reading it.
Teresa
Great Big Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
I just read this for my January 2026 book club meeting. This is not the type of book I would have chosen for myself. Two stories are woven into one which reveal big family secrets. A romance brews on the side. I felt I had to push myself to get through this book.
Ellen
Twice by Mitch Albom
This book uses a unique, magical construct to tell a story in the present time. The main character can experience, at will, one redo of any life event. As his life evolves, he learns the pros and cons of this ‘gift.’ Themes of love, honesty, regret are woven throughout. Albom’s writing style is clean, a nod to his roots as a newspaper columnist. He conveys a lot of meaning through concise words.
Nancy
The Girl Who Reads on the Métro by Christine Féret-Fleury
Juliette is a poignant character, who seeks the passion in life we all look for at times. In this story, she inspires us to step outside our own lives, reminds us to take the time to look at the world around us and nudges us towards the chances that come our way so we can ultimately learn where we truly belong. I encourage you to become a ‘passeur’ in life – leave a book someplace it will be found, so perhaps a soul out there searching for something, might pick it up and read it.
Rose
Homeseeking by Karissa Chen
Haiwen and Suchi meet as children and fall in love in Shanghai after she hears him playing his violin. However, their families don't agree on their relationship, and when Haiwen enlists in the army to protect his brother, he leaves Suchi devastated. Suchi also believes her mother to be dead, and she grieves for what was lost so long ago. Now, both Haiwen and Suchi are living in CA, and Haiwen is recently widowed. He sees Suchi and hopes to rekindle their love. The war, changing histories and countries, this is a narrative told in reversing timelines over 60 years. A unique story of China and its struggles in the 20th century, war, Taiwan, and immigrants assimilating in US, and two lovers kept apart, but struggling to stay true to roots.
Patricia
The Drift by C. J. Tudor
I listened to the audiobook version of this and it was read by multiple narrators. It was really good! (Richard Armitage was one the of the narrators and he's become one of my all time favorites.) I love how this book sets the scene, but still doesn't let you know/understand everything that's happening all the time. But, in the end, it all ties together and everything makes sense. This would make a great movie!
Patricia
The Shimmering Road by Hester Young
This book is the second in a series. I had actually read it a few years ago, but I read it again in preparation for reading the next book in the series. I'd forgotten how good it was! I feel like Hester Young is really good at telling a story that's very character-driven. You really feel like you get to know the depth of the character and their motivations. This book is great and I can't wait to read the next in the series!
Agnes
Orbital by Samantha Harvey
It was hard to warm up to these characters at first in this short novel without much of a plot. But stick with it, dear reader. Samantha Harvey weaves together bits and bobs about six individuals on the international space station, their ties to each other and the rest of us on planet earth. She has done careful research to give us one day in the lives of these astronauts. We get to see our world from a new perspective. All its beauty and fragility. Take your time and savor her prose. I grew to like this book very much in the end.
Luella
Say Goodbye by Lisa Gardner
A disturbing story but very well written. It has many twists and turns. A real page-turner.
Elizabeth
A Secret in Tuscany by Alan Hlad
Interesting, about a part of WWII that I didn’t know much about about.
Dallys
The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods
Not the type of book I usually read but I loved it! I just enjoyed the hints between the years as they were looking for the manuscript of Emily Brontë and the mysterious books store that only certain people can see it. And trees growing along the walls! Totally unbelievable but magical. I read for the enjoyment and don’t really have to believe or understand the book.
Laurie
Mona’s Eyes by Thomas Schlesser
Art history at its best. Loved this family multi-generational saga, can highly recommend!
Diane
The Perfect Tuba: Forging Fulfillment from the Bass Horn, Band, and Hard Work by Sam Quinones
I loved learning more about orchestral tubists (e.g.,Chicago, Philadelphia, New York. Boston orchestras) as a classical music lover, and even more engaging is his inspirational testimonials about school music programs and the remarkable effect on kids to be better students, make better choices - lowering drop out rates, increasing college admissions and also as an impactful deterrent against crimes, drug use, etc. Be sure to thank a school band director today! They work extremely hard and are so important to our kids!
Liz
The Shark House by Sara Ackerman
Dr. Minnow Gray is a marine biologist who has been asked to come to Hawaii to find out what is causing several shark attacks. She is an expert on sharks in what is traditionally a male-dominated field. I was expecting more of a story about the sharks, but this book really centered around Minnow’s past and what the future may hold for her as she falls in love. The narrator did a wonderful job on the audiobook.
Mary
Heart the Lover by Lily King
Beautifully written, the story takes places over many years. Starting as college students who are best friends studying literature, romance seems to separate them as does life's challenges. Many years later, one of the couples reconnects at a death bed and reveal to each other the secrets that they had not shared previously. Very touching and emotionally-packed novel.
Lesley
Hamnet by Maggie O'Farrell
Fictional account of William Shakespeare's son Hamnet. Recounts the bubonic plague as it swept through Europe and touches upon Shakespeare's life, his childhood, his marriage, his children and how he became the great playwright. The novel specifically explores grief and how we move on.
Lesley
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
I'd really like to give this book 4.5 stars. It is a bit slow in parts but the story itself is beautiful and well crafted: an alien algae is attacking the sun and three astronauts must travel to space to stop it. There is a tremendous amount of science that must be explained, but the author takes his time to do so in simple terms so that the reader is never lost. Fascinating and funny, the story of friendship will win your heart.
Liz
High Hopes: A Memoir by Anne Abel
Anne Abel suffers from depression. She has advocated for herself, even checking into a facility and undergoing treatment. One day at the age of 59, Anne decides to quit her teaching job with no plan beyond that. Then she remembers that Bruce Springsteen, whom she knows nothing about, is going to tour Australia. She books a trip, 8 concerts, 5 cities and 26 days. What makes this remarkable is that Anne knows nothing of music, hates to be alone and doesn’t like to travel. She has totally gone out of her comfort zone, and when she returns she is a changed person.
Darcy
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
I can't believe that I think I've just read the book that will be my favorite of 2026 already. It's the first book in a really long time that I intentionally slowed down my reading to savor the story and the writing. Amazing.
Kim
The Intruder by Freida McFadden
Freida at her best! Twists and turns with a surprise at the end.
Darlene
Whatever Happened to Lori Lovely? by Sarah McCoy
Premise was good but then became too long.
Kathie
Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino
This was such a twisty ride! I could not turn the pages fast enough. I loved the setting, I could envision the picturesque Bethesda neighborhood and feel the gritty streets of D.C. After many disappointments of the American dream of home-ownership falling through, how far will the main character go to have the best offer? It is SO good!!
Cindi
An Unfinished Love Story by Doris Kearns Goodwin
I loved the book - the story of the Goodwins, but even more interesting to me were the stories and insights into the Kennedys and LBJ. What an amazing life they led!
Kathie
For Whom the Belle Tolls by Jaysea Lynn
I did not agree with the hype on this book. Although a unique debut, the story felt much too long, with a list of boxes that were checked for way too many life issues and topics. I felt that less should have been covered, and what was covered could have been fleshed out better. The story is also very spicy, which I generally don't mind, but these spicy scenes became too repetitive and annoying. I enjoyed the male main character and the uniqueness of the story.
Kathie
Making Faces by Amy Harmon
This book has such heart. I am so very glad I picked up this gem. I loved the characters, I laughed and I cried. I listened on audio. If you missed this one, pick it up. I feel it's very underrated, and more people should be talking about it.
Judith
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
A wonderful read, hard to put down. Loved it!
Jayme
Into the Beautiful North by Luis Alberto Urrea
This is an incredible book that celebrates love of culture and home as our hero Nayeli Cervantes, a nineteen-year-old living in Tres Camarones, Sinaloa, Mexico decides to go "north" to the United States to recruit Mexican men who have left Mexico to come back to Mexico and help her protect the women of her town who are left defenseless against the bandidos because all the men have left to find work in the United States. Whew - got it? She has no desire to live in the United States, but wants to protect her wonderful home in Mexico. What emerges is a quest story that compares Mexico and the United States, takes a hard look at America's broken immigration policies and shows us what friendship can truly accomplish.
Jayme
Violet Thistlewaite Is Not a Villain Anymore by Emily Krempholtz
This was a cozy, cute, love story with a villain or two thrown in for spice. The plot wasn't that developed, but it was nice to escape to Dragon's Rest. 3.5 stars rounded up.
Yvonne
The Wright Brothers by David McCullough
Reading it for another monthly book club in DAR (Daughters of the American Revolution). It’s historical and well researched.
barbara
I Will Find You by Harlan Coben
The story of a man who finds a way to prove is innocence after being sentenced to a maximum security prison for murdering his son.
Donna
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
THEO OF GOLDEN by Allen Levi was a #bookstagrammademedoit read. In fact, I had seen so many reviews praising it that I purchased a hardcover edition, so sure that I would love it and want a copy for my home library. Although I did enjoy it, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I was anticipating. I found it difficult to make any connections with the characters, and also found the dialogue a bit on the unrealistic side. However, I truly believe our world is in desperate need of more kindness, respect for others, empathy and compassion, which seems to be the theme of THEO OF GOLDEN, and I do appreciate that.
Wanda
The Housemaid by Frieda McFadden
It was for me more of a storyline that was predictable. A fast read, interesting theory of a family/housemaid situation.
Francisca
The Women by Kristin Hannah
4.5 stars. Hannah turns her attention to another group of women who were long ignored - military nurses serving in Vietnam. I found this a very moving story, not the least because my husband was seriously wounded in Vietnam and owes his life to medics, helicopter evac pilots, and Army nurses. If I rated based on emotional impact alone, I’d give it 5 stars. However, a couple of details she got wrong, plus a romance that I thought was unnecessary dropped the rating. Great book for book club discussion!
MH
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
This was the best book I’ve read in a while. Theo moves to Golden, Georgia, for unknown reasons. While there, he visits a cafe with portraits by a local artist on the walls. He gets the idea to purchase the paintings and donate them to the subjects of the portraits. Doing so, he meets and befriends many people in the small town, including a sick child and a homeless woman. Reading the book, I realized Theo was almost too good to be true. Then it dawned on me that perhaps he is meant to be a Christ figure, an image which is humanized by the last section of the book. Definitely not a book to be missed.
Pam
The Eyes and the Impossible by Dave Eggers
Newberry Winning book and a delight for all ages.
Rosemary
The First to Lie by Hank Phillippi Ryan
A young woman, posing as an investigating reporter, tries to solve the supposed death and disappearance of her brother seven years ago. Meanwhile, she's involved in an investigation of a pharmaceutical company who is pushing a drug that may do more harm than good. The main question is which characters are telling the truth, and which are lying. An intriguing story filled with twists and turns!
Shirley
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Really enjoyed this book. The story is told using correspondences exclusively - letters and emails.
A quick read as the plot is very compelling.
Linda
Anxious People by Fredrik Backman
A humorous yet heartfelt story about strangers who are trapped together after a failed bank-robbery attempt. The characters and dialog are quirky and funny, yet also tender and often profound.
Lynn
Cold Kitchen: A Year of Culinary Travels by Caroline Eden
I love reading books about local foods when traveling, especially from places I will never visit. This one includes recipes!
Lynn
The Last Thing He Told Me by Laura Dave
What a thriller! Now I'm so ready to read the sequel!
Ruthanne
Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt
Really enjoyed this book. I generally dont care for stories involving "creatures" but this one was totally different. The author strikes just the right balance with the octopus narrative. Pick this book up - it's a great read.
Teresa
The Names by Florence Knapp
What an interesting way of writing a novel. This is a story of a woman in the midst of an abusive relationship. It’s time to officially register her baby’s name, and she thinks of three options, in following her husband's family tradition. Each option may have very different consequences for herself and each family member.
Katie
Heart the Lover by Lily King
A totally different kind of love story that I could not put down! The title comes from a college-invented game that I still don’t fully understand.
Lisa
The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave
The long awaited sequel to THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME does not disappoint. Hannah and Bailey have left their lives with Owen behind in Sausalito. They are in Los Angeles for a fresh start, but the past finds them again. A fast-paced thriller.
Cat
The Promise of Heaven by Dr. David Jeremiah
Do you know if you are going to Heaven? Do you want to read a book that makes you cry? Well, this is it! Dr. Jeremiah explains biblically about Heaven and what's required to get there. He knows how to keep your attention and keep you reading.
Olivia
Parade by Hiromi Kawakami
So imaginative, quick and whimsical. Perfect for winter and a warm drink.
Barbara
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
We get to know Sybil gradually through her letters. Virginia Evans' THE CORRESPONDENT is an epistolary novel but, because the letters reveal so much of the personality of the various letter writers, especially Sybil, we don't miss a narrator. She is a bit crotchety, very exacting, organized, and judgmental, a 70-years plus divorcee who is somewhat estranged from her children. Through her words, we see ourselves, maybe. And through the answering letters, we see how others feel about Sybil. As the "story" progresses, we also see changes - in recipients of her letters but, more importantly, in Sybil. A very poignant, engrossing, though different kind of novel. You may tear up at the ending. But I bet you will feel happy also.
Joan
The Book Woman's Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
This book was almost as good as the first one. I learned a lot about Kentucky, many years ago.
Susan
The Dressmakers of London by Julia Kelly
I enjoyed this historical fiction story, set during World War II, about two sisters who inherit their mother's dressmaker store in London. The sisters had been estranged for a number of years after the older sister's marriage and now must find a way to work together to save their inheritance.
Jeanne
Executive Power by Brian Andrews and Jeffrey Wilson
TOM CLANCEY'S EXECUTIVE POWER by Andrews & Wilson has the Ryan family back at it again when President Ryan’s youngest son Kyle is abducted when he’s on assignment in Angola. This is a well-written, well-researched intense, intriguing and fast-paced book. I did find it hard to follow with all the constant government agency abbreviations; it was nice to have them listed at the beginning of the book, but it was still confusing at times for me. The authors did a great job, but it was not my favorite in the series.
Elizabeth
The Snow Lies Deep by Paula Munier
Loved it.
Elizabeth
The Hounding by Xenobe Purvis
A rather odd book set in some unstated, perhaps medieval time in England about five sisters that the villagers believe turn into dogs. The writing is lush and invokes questions about superstition and how it forms when girls don't conform to rigid gender roles.
Sheree
Queen Esther by John Irving
I thought the book was wordy and kept going on and on. Not a very interesting read. I wouldn’t recommend it.
Deby
Under the Tulip Tree by Michelle Shocklee
A little too predictable and at times seemed like it was trying too hard.
Susan
We All Want Impossible Things by Catherine Newman
While this book deals with hospice and death, I found it very funny in parts. I think it was because the characters quirky and interesting.
Lynda
The Measure by Nikki Erlick
Everybody worldwide who is twenty-two years and older receives a box with a string inside measuring different lengths. The length of the string determines each person's lifespan. Would you want to know how much longer your life will be or not? A very life affirming and thought-provoking read. Also, an excellent book club pick.
Beth
The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave
I can usually count on the editors at a certain online retail site to make good book recommendations. In the case of THE FIRST TIME I SAW HIM, while their recommendation agreed with many others, I'm not as impressed as they are. It's not a bad book. But it depends too heavily on THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME, the first book in this series. I'm sure that THE FIRST TIME I SAW HIM would have bored me if I hadn't already read THE LAST THING HE TOLD ME. Every book in a series ought to be able to stand on its own. THE FIRST TIME I SAW HIM too often lacks reminders of what happened in the previous book. Plus, there are contradictions. Or maybe I misunderstood the first book in the series.
April
The Teacher by Freida McFadden
It was a page-turner, but I got lost in the last part when Eve shows up after being buried in a grave.
April
Lady Tan's Circle of Women by Lisa See
I loved the historical fiction novel based on a real doctor Tan Yunxian from the Ming dynasty and the importance of female friendship. It was the selection for my book club in Las Vegas this month.
April
Daughters of Shandong by Eve J. Chung
I enjoyed the historical fiction novel based on the author's grandmother's story about her escape from Taiwan as the Communist revolution sweeps through China. It is another story about female resilience during harrowing circumstances.
Sean
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder by Holly Jackson
Holly Jackson's excellent murder mystery captivated my thoughts even though I already knew what was going to happen due to watching the TV series. She crates an excellent heroin in Pip, and the town of Fairview becomes a character as its as suspects come out of the woodwork. I loved how she worked through problems of the case in a realistic way. This is supposedly YA book, but I never felt spoken down to like I have in other popular YA books. There were some emotional moments but nothing sappy. The ending was my only issue as it was a little wonky - satisfying but a head-scratcher. Overall, a very good mystery.
Rose
The Giver by Lois Lowry
A powerful story of a community where everything is orderly. When a young boy is chosen to be The Receiver, he meets with The Giver, and learns things he never knew or experienced. When different things are revealed to him, he realizes that the community and family he has known is not what it seems, and he must take matters into his own hands to save himself and one other. I didn't know what to expect from this story and was totally wowed by it.
Rose
The Forget-Me-Not Library by Heather Webber
A sweet and light story of a town with a special library and a group of people that are kind and giving. When Juliet Nightingale's road trip takes her to Forget-Me-Not, Alabama, her car breaks down. She is taking the road trip to try to rediscover her memories after losing them in a lightning strike that also killed her beloved grandfather. Tallulah works at the library and is struggling after a separation from her husband. She is living with her grandfather, and raising her two daughters.
Together, Juliet and Tallulah learn about themselves, their grandfathers, and also find new love in the town with charming men. The town has magic in it. I really needed this light, engaging story after reading some heavy books.
Rose
The New Couple in 5B by Lisa Unger
Rosie, a writer, and Chad, an actor, inherit a luxury apartment after his uncle dies, angering his cousin. That is when all the troubles begin. Rosie begins seeing things, an old love affair and its consequences have a hold on the building, and jealousy and bitterness over a loss of some real estate are themes in this sinister tale. People are not what they seem, and you never know who to trust. Just when you think you have it figured out, you get thrown for another loop! Nice one, Lisa Unger!
Rose
In Your Dreams by Sarah Adams
A sweet ending to the When in Rome series. In this one, Madison has just completed culinary school, only after completing some bonus credit. She has lost the joy of cooking and feels inadequate. She wants to return home, and calls home - but mistakenly reaches James, her brother's best friend, and her favorite friend to tease unmercifully. James tells her he is opening a restaurant on his farm, and he wants her to be the head chef. She jumps at the chance, but has never run a restaurant and needs to regain her confidence. James helps her through this in gentle ways, finally admitting to Madison that he has loved her for years. A sweet romance.
Rose
Morningside Heights by Joshua Henkin
A moving look at a love interrupted by a debilitating disease. Pru Steiner is a graduate student when she meets and falls in love with Spence Robin, her Shakespeare professor. He is world-renowned, and their life seems idyllic. They have a daughter, Sarah, who grows up to become a doctor. Spence admits he was married before and has a son, Arlo. Arlo comes to live with them for a period of time, and they discover his dyslexia. Arlo's mom is a free spirit, never giving Arlo formal schooling, but Spence and Pru discover that he is actually a genius. Now, years later, they realize Spence has early onset Alzheimer's and Pru is struggling with caring for him. A moving story of love and family.
Rose
The Neapolitan Sisters by Margo Candela
Three Bernal sisters all have different paths they are walking. Maritza is planning the perfect wedding, Dulcina is recovering from addiction, and Claudia has a wonderful career and a man madly in love with her, but she isn't sure she can commit to him. Now they are all coming together for Maritza's wedding, but past trauma, an alcoholic father, and an overbearing mother, as well as a terrible secret ties them together. It is a story of sisters and survival. I enjoyed it, but I wish I had understood more about the shared trauma earlier.
Rose
The Retirement Plan by Sue Hincenbergs
A humorous story of four couples and what they think happened vs. what really happened. When Dave is found dead under his garage door, holding an ax, with a poker chip nearby, Hank is sure that the Indian mafia is after them. After all, Hank, Dave, and their friends, Larry and André, had developed a plan to steal $10 million from the casino using a glitch in the slot machines. This is to make up for losing their money in a bad investment scheme. But, after the wives discover that Dave's wife received a lot of insurance money after he died, the wives plan to kill their husbands. They are bored with their husbands and figure their lives would be better without them. They hire the local barber, Hector, to be a hit man. Humorous.
Wendy
King's Ransom by Janet Evanovich
Not as funny as her Stephanie Plum books but an entertaining read.
Sandy
The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth
In the beginning I wasn't real crazy about this book, but the more I got into it the better I liked it. The ending was awesome.
Linda
The Lying Game by Ruth Ware
I couldn’t put the book down. I was curious about the game, the players, and the results.
Sharon
Good Dirt by Charmaine Wilkerson
Good read, although I liked BLACK CAKE more than this one.
Liz
All the Ugly and Wonderful Things by Bryn Greenwood
I did not enjoy this book. The idea that a 13-year-old girl was having a relationship with a 20+ year old man was very bothersome to me. I understood that she needed the security he provided as she had such a horrible home life, but nevertheless, it didn’t feel good to me.
Liz
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
I loved this book. So well written through the letters she writes others, the reader really gets to know and understand her. It made me rethink my own letter writing and how important that can be to a legacy. I also appreciated her relationship with her daughter and how she struggled with that, and the relationship her daughter shared with her former sister in law and best friend. A wonderful story!
Rose
Dandelion Is Dead by Rosie Storey
Poppy is overcome with grief due to the death of her older sister Dandelion. She is holding onto Dandelion's flat, planning to rent it as an airbnb, but keeping Dandelion's bedroom locked. Poppy's boyfriend, Sam, is pushing her to get married, but Poppy isn't sure she truly loves him, and Dandelion didn't like him. When Poppy uses Dandelion's phone, she sees that Dandelion was matched to Jake on a dating app, so Poppy impersonates her and goes on a date with Jake. When Jake finds out about the deception, he is hurt. However, they go back and forth. I found this book to be disjointed and bizarre. I understand it was a look at grief, and the strange things people do when overcome by grief, but I never connected with the characters.
Betty Jo
In the Family Way by Laney Katz Becker
This novel is set in 1960s Ohio. Teenagers pregnancies, unwed mothers' homes, and change is in the air with Roe vs. Wade. A fictional reminder of where women stood before much needed change. A subtle warning for readers who did not live through it of where current policy is taking us back.
Sandi
The Missing Half by Ashley Flowers
Great who-dun-it. Two young women are trying to track down the person who abducted and killed their sisters over 10 years ago. Great ending.
Tonya
Anatomy of an Alibi by Ashley Elston
Excellent book.
Debbie
Pre-Code Essentials by Kim Luperi
PRE-CODE ESSENTIALS, is a very detailed and interesting book about various movies made during 1931 to 1934. Not every movie risked censorship due to undressed actresses. Many movies risked editing and censorship based on religious, political, or social norms. The scene displaying the drowning of Little Maria was cancelled in many movie theaters. Much dialogue from The Divorcee with Norma Shearer was blocked as too risky. So many actors and actresses gained stardom with roles during the early 1930s: Clark Gable, Barbara Stanwyck, Norma Shearer, Boris Karloff, Frederic March, James Cagney, and Marlene Dietrick. "All Quiet on the Western Front" with Lew Ayres received censorship due to treatment of the Germans and to death of soldiers.
Debbie
The Light Over London by Julia Kelly
Julia Kelly’s novel, THE LIGHT OVER LONDON, jumped from 1941 to 2017 and involved two women searching for love and fulfillment during troubled times. Many authors employ this method of writing of two periods to show the differences for individuals. Kelly’s novel hinges on too much detail and too long chapters that do not move the novel flawlessly. Cara, an associate in an antique shop, finds an old diary from 1941 during an inventory for an estate sale. Cara starts reading the novel in hopes of finding the diary’s owner. Louise, the diarist, tells of her life in the Royal Artillery and her love affair with a pilot. During the search for Louise, Cara uncovers a secret of her grandmother, Iris Warren Parsons.
Judy
Burned Bridges by John Gilstrap
I always enjoy Gilstrap's books, but while I, personally, could do without the profanities his books, they always keep me interested. This one begins a new series and based upon this book the series should be good.
Leslie
Isola by Allegra Goodman
Sumptuous historical tale of a strong woman with an undeniable sense of survival. Based on a real story from the 16th century!
Betty
The Cyclist by Tim Sullivan
This is the second of his books published in the U.S. The third is THE PATIENT. I've loved the first two, so I've just started the third. I wasn't sure if I'd like them as the main character, Cross, is on the autism spectrum. It is actually wonderful.
Rhonda
Post Traumatic Slave Syndrome by Dr. Joy Degruy
The book was informative and very relevant to our society. The author provided substantial research and documented case history to inform the reader. I would highly recommend the book, especially as it relates to not only the psychological trauma of slavery but how those experiences have been imprinted on generations of Black people today and in the future.
Nancy
Rubbernecker by Belinda Bauer
Patrick is a medical student with Asperger's syndrome. He is an unusual and compelling character, facing a world that often makes little sense to him and often hindered by his inability to understand the implications of what happens. For that he needs and relies on others to point him in the right direction. He has had a ton of challenges in his life - his father's death, his mother's alcoholism and rejection of him and many ugly encounters in school and society with thoughtless and uncaring people. In the class he meets a lovely girl who wants to know him better, but is constantly being rejected by him because he has little comprehension for her nuanced approach. Lots of plot twists and we see Patrick grow a bit in his social awareness.
LINDA
The Resident by K. J. Kalis
OMG, I loved this book! I felt bad that Doctor Mac Forbes had always wanted to be a doctor and now she was close to finishing her residency, but disaster after disaster got her suspended. Poor Mac.
LINDA
Alpha's Command: A Special Forces Shifter Romance (Shifter Ops series, Book 6) by Renee Rose and Lee Savino
OMG, I could hardly stop reading this as I love this genre! Channing was a mess in his younger days, and he continued the reckless trend when his older brother and his wife took him in when he was nineteen, but is brother was killed. After he died, Channing's inner wolf recognized that Julia was his mate as well, but he knew that Julia was not ready, so he monitors her home, had his friend check on her and his nephew. He left after the funeral, stayed away ten years and returned when Geo was thirteen because he would need his help as he went through shifting into his wolf as his mom was human and had no idea how to help. I loved that Channing grew up to be a fine man and stayed away from Julia until he could not fight his wolf any longer.
LINDA
Someday Love by Kristina Mitchell
I loved this book and I tried to stop my tears as I was just like Harper but not as bad as her mom.
LINDA
Rogue by Lisa Lagaly
I loved it!
Terry
The Hong Kong Widow by Kristin Loesch
This is an interesting family mystery spread over three time periods, which can be confusing. The main character has “the sight”, so there are many supernatural events.
Lynn
Secret of Secrets by Dan Brown
I was in Prague last May and now I want to go back. There are so many places I missed. This book held my attention throughout and as usual, Dan Brown does a good thriller. This time it's not the past, but the here and now and the future that has Robert Langdon running around Prague. Highly recommend.
Jan
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
Don't let the cover or title dissuade you. Compelling story. Wonderful writing. Would be a great book club discussion book.
Donna
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
This book is outstanding. Written in epistolary format, this debut novel is both thought-provoking and heartbreaking. The central character, Sybil Van Antwerp, lives alone following a successful law career. The book begins when she is in her early 70s and continues over a 12 year span. She is divorced with two adult children. A third child dies at a young age. Sybil feels a connection with letters and writes letters and later email messages to family members, friends, acquaintances and individuals she has never met. I don't want to reveal any plot lines but grief, hardship, love, family dynamics, aging, health and guilt are among the themes explored. I wanted to read this book in 2025 but was unable to do so. Don't hesitate. Read it now.
Michelle
Great Circle by Maggie Shipstead
I’m in awe at the enormous undertaking this must have been to write such an epic, detailed story with so much history. Shipstead’s prose is beautiful. There’s something about her writing that felt very unique. She not only develops rich, memorable characters but she also constructs complex relationships that felt realistic and in-depth. I would have sworn Marion Graves was a real person. However, one of the drawbacks for this book was that is was a little overwritten. It was already cut down by a few hundred pages, but there were definitely many sections that could have been further cut.
Michelle
My Next Breath by Jeremy Renner
You cannot help but be moved and inspired by Renner's incredible story of resilience. Though I wish the scope of this memoir was even larger on Renner's overall life, he digs deep to recount the moments leading up to, during, and after his accident. I was astounded at his positive attitude. He proves how much attitude and perspective, driven by love, can make all the difference. I would have loved to have learned about how he had practiced facing his fears earlier in life. He was already so mentally strong and driven. But I appreciated how he showed how the power of his own thoughts was a game-changer in his survival. I loved the heartfelt lessons he shared, how it has shaped his priorities now to become a better version of himself.
Cynthia
The Magnolia Palace by Fiona Davis
Fiona Davis never disappoints. The way she is able to portray history through her fictional stories is amazing. The mystery of the Magnolia diamond kept me on the edge of my seat until the end.
Rhonda
The Secret Book Society by Madeline Martin
A novel depicting woman's roles and rights in the Victorian era. A group of women who are empowered through novels and find courage to make better their existence.
Luella
Stolen Innocence by Elissa Wall
This is a true story of a 14-year-old girl, who was a member of a polygamous cult, who was forced to marry her cousin. It led to a court case against the Prophet of the cult.
Kate
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
A touching story about the working class in a downtrodden town and how they create a found family.
Pattie
Enough by Oprah Winfrey
Very insightful.
Linda
The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion, Vols 1-8 by Beth Brower
The most endearing (installment) series that I have read in a long time. It has a Jane Austen feel to it, with charming, quirky characters and an indomitable main female character who pushes the boundaries set upon women in the 1800s. I read and listened to the audiobook simultaneously. The narration is perfect, and it is the same narrator for volumes 1-8. Not to be missed! I can’t wait for the next volume to release!
Terry
The View From Lake Cuomo by Adriana Trigiani
The author shows us what is was like to grow up female in an Italian American family in New Jersey. It is sad how the women sacrificed their hopes and dreams so that the males could prosper. Family secrets were revealed. The main character stood up for herself and found a whole new life. I learned about the marble and stone business. I listened to the book on Audible and the performance was excellent.
Suzanne
The River is Waiting by Wally Lamb
Wow, after the first 12 pages I wanted to throw this book down and never pick it up again. Wally Lamb writes about tough subjects and this book is no different. So many readers telling me to forge on in the FB reading group I belong to so I did...and I'm glad for it. After I put my heart back in my chest, I met amazing, well-developed characters that I started caring about, and a story that had my emotions all over the place. Good story, even though it was devastating and sad. Great writing. A story of redemption that was thought-provoking. I would recommend it, but with the warning that there are certain triggers you may need to Google about ahead of time.
Richard N B
My Lovely Wife by Samantha Downing
This was a wild ride of a psychological thriller. Even though I figured out a couple of the “twists” in advance, I still enjoyed how Downing crafted the tale. And that last line!
Denise
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
McConaghy immerses the reader into the location of her novel. You experience a remote island near the Antarctic. This island and the weather become a character to fear and love. On this island is family of four basically living as caretakers. Most important is the vault built into the permafrost containing the world's massive selection of seeds from plants all over the world. The book deals with parents, their children, isolation, love and loss with an intensity amplified by the harshness of the island's weather conditions. A woman washes ashore after a terrible storm, hanging onto life. Her presence changes the dynamics and creates the beginning of a mystery. Secrets emerge as you find out more and more about the island and its occupants.
Jodie
Fox by Joyce Carol Oates
Well written, no surprise. Very dark subject mater, but keeps you wanting more.
Shradha
The Butcher and the Liar by S. L. Woeppel
Criminally underrated thriller that explores a woman's grief and guilt over the years following the discovery that her father is a serial killer. There are supernatural elements, but ones that help delve into the psychological, and the tired tropes are avoided altogether as her past comes back to haunt her once more.
Vicki
Wish You Were Here by Jodi Piccoult
I liked it a lot, it kept my interest and in Jodi’s style it had a surprise twist. I listened to it and enjoyed the narration.
Rose
The Woman in Suite 11 by Ruth Ware
This is a sequel to THE WOMAN IN CABIN 10, and it should be read after reading the first book. Lo is invited to an opening of a hotel in Switzerland, but is hesitant to leave her husband and children. With his encouragement, she goes, and surprisingly finds a woman in Suite 11 of the hotel. Asked to help her plan her escape from her controlling husband, Lo must decide what she should do to keep herself and the woman safe. A complex tale of a chase across Europe.
Rose
Banker's Holiday: A Novel of Fiscal Irregularity by Gary Clemenceau
What happens when your management team becomes zombies? Stillman Fuller must come to terms with these creatures as he tries to escape the financial breakdown of his bank. This book was at times humorous, and at other times, a bit horrific. It takes a look at our financial system, our reliance on capitalism, and puts a strange, otherworldly twist on it. I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, but did I laugh at times. I did enjoy the narration done for the audiobook, and the narrator kept my interest. Very different.
Rose
The Dog Walker: Reckoning by D. L. Maddox
This is Book 4 in the Dog Walker series. I highly recommend reading these books in order so you understand the characters, their relationships, and the enemies they are escaping. Jane and R are in Bergen, Norway, after fleeing the U.S. When a group tries to recruit Jane, she doesn't want to be involved. However, the group plays dirty, and when both her and R's lives are put in danger, and a former nemesis threatens them, they need to devise a plan to escape. I really enjoyed this novel and have enjoyed all of the books in the series.
Rose
The Burning Library by Gilly Macmillan
Anya comes to the attention of a professor in Scotland and is offered a job to transcribe ancient manuscripts. Meanwhile, a woman named Eleanor has been murdered for "taking something that isn't hers". It was a small piece of embroidery, and it is wanted by multiple female organizations. One is the Larks, the other, the Kats, both secret organizations with different goals for women - to gain power and influence. Anya's mother learns of her work, and warns her that she knows what they want, and tries to help Anya avoid danger. Det. Clio is investigating the murder of Eleanor and gets involved with helping Anya as well. I didn't love this book. It was complicated and had too many things that I couldn't fathom or care about.
Christina
Leave Before I Love You by Max Monroe
This was my first Max Monroe book. This was a fun romance novel. I was not expecting the action that took place at the beginning of the book. I thought it really added to my enjoyment of the book. At the beginning of the story we meet Henry, who is an adventurous, handsome and a kind male leading character and Avery, who is a high society girl who spends her time shopping and on hair, makeup, and other cosmetic and beauty services. I really liked Henry but I found Avery to be not a very likeable leading female character. However, I found myself routing for their love story midway through the book. During the novel, the plot reveals more about both of them and I found myself starting to enjoy her character.
Christina
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
This was a top read of the year for me. It was so beautifully written. The story of Dom and his three children trying to navigate the loss of their mother and his wife on a remote island in the Antarctic was told from all of their perspectives. The introduction of a stranger, a woman names Rowan, added some mystery but led to the healing of this family. It was a haunting tale and is a reminder of how fragile our ecosystem is. The book slowly built in mystery and the trauma that each family experienced. What Ebro was dealing with was portrayed with such care. Really loved this story. Thank you to the author and Flatiron Books for a copy of this book to review.
Christina
That Last Carolina Summer by Karen White
This was a good summer read with interesting characters and a good plot. I thought it was going to be a cozy romance novel, but it was intriguing and kept my interest with the mystery storyline and family drama. It was a quick read and worth picking up this summer!
Christina
Nantucket Summer House by Pamela Kelley
Was a very quick read but enjoyable to go back to Plum Cove Inn and see what Lisa and her family were up to!
Christina
Maggie; or, A Man and a Woman Walk Into a Bar by Katie Yee
This was a story about a woman who thinks she is happily married finding out unexpectedly that her husband had an affair and is leaving her. She then has to navigate her life as a single parent with primary responsibility for her children as well as learning she has cancer. I am still not sure how I feel about this story...
Christina
The Incredible Kindness of Paper by Evelyn Skye
This was a sweet, uplifting love story of two teenagers who were separated and then reunited after 17 years apart. The events that bring them together invoke paper origami roses that Chloe makes to bring joy and friendship to the people in NYC. The story intertwines the lives of a number of people that would have never met if it was not for the roses made of paper.
Christina
To the Moon and Back by Eliana Ramage
This was a great read that explores the childhood and adult life of a Native American woman who is obsessed with becoming the first Native American astronaut. The book deals with her relationship with her mother and sister as well as three romantic interests that she has had throughout her life. The book also looks at the life of Della, who meets Steph in college. She is also the daughter of a Native American and a non-native American mother who she never meets. The characters are rich and the storyline is sad at times, but it is a great story.
Christina
High Season by Katie Bishop
This was a good mystery that involves a woman who was convicted of killing a 17-year-old girl 29 years ago when she was the same age. The story examines the relationships of the family of Tamara, who was murdered in her posh mansion in the south of France and the family as well as the repercussions of the woman who was convicted and spent 10 years in prison for that crime. A podcaster wants to look into the crime as Josie has claimed she was innocent of the crime.
Christina
Hot Desk by Laura Dickerman
I enjoyed this book which was about two editors in a publishing house who are forced to share a desk due to space consolidation. There is also a very compelling story of Rebecca’s mother who, when she was younger, wanted to become a writer and took an internship with a literary publication.
Christina
We Are All Guilty Here by Karen Slaughter
This was an interesting mystery that kept me entertained through the whole story. The story invoked the investigation of two teenage girls and the family who is in charge of investigating them. There are multiple storylines that become intertwined. It was a great read.
Christina
The Guest Cottage by Lori Foster
This was a sweet romance 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
Wow - where do I start? How do I review this novelist on her 58th book? I can only hope I have such a productive career and life as Joyce Carol Oates has. 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.
Jae
A Collection of Collections: Black American Poetry by John F. Dilworth II
I re-read this book and found it just as powerful the second time around. John F. Dilworth II has a gift for telling stories through poetry that do more than entertain. His words are insightful and thought-provoking. Rather than simply describing events or feelings, his writing helps readers see into the complexities of those experiences. Though he writes from his lived experience as a Black man in America, the themes are relevant to all. This collection, spanning 2000–2020, is divided into four sections: "Lovin' Ain’t Easy," "Messages of Lost Hope," "Reverse Engineering My Dream" and "19 Chronicles" (poems written during the COVID-19 pandemic). Highly recommended.
Gretchen
The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave
I loved the story, but I had to give it only 4 stars as I found myself getting uneasy with all the talking, and I wanted it to move along. I am trying to adjust to audiobooks after being a fast reader of hardcovers for many years. I feel like the ending was left hanging.
