This contest period's winners were Karen P. from Apple Valley, CA; Linda M. from Candia, NH; and Lisa H. from Newton, WI. Each received a copy of IT'S NOT HER by Mary Kubica and VIGIL by George Saunders.
Debbie
A Christmas Witness by Charles Todd
A late Christmas novella by my favorite mother and son team, Charles Todd. Ian Rutledge stands as a gentle, but troubled soul in this brief tale of an entitled landowner, Colonel Edward Braxton, who has been injured supposedly by a galloping horse and rider. Chief Superintendent Markum forces Ian to travel to Kent at Christmas to handle and solve the Braxton dilemma. Clues and explanations seem out of Ian’s grasp. The short story fixates too often and too much on Ian’s car and driving. The words “turned off the ignition” appear with dreaded regularity throughout the story, and this reader felt this was employed to reach a certain word count. The story concludes with a heavy hint to Charles Dickens’s A CHRISTMAS CAROL.
Debbie
The Killing Stones by Ann Cleeves
Many enjoy the books by Ann Cleeves and love the movie series fashioned on her various series. Ann Cleeves does not write a cozy mystery. Her works portray a messy and brutal world, and this Jimmy Perez novel does not fall far from the tree. The story begins with the brutal murder of Archie Stout, who happens to be Jimmy’s best friend. Should Jimmy allow some other detective to handle the case due to his closeness to the murdered victim? Willow Reeves, Jimmy’s partner, is supposedly on maternity leave with the couple’s second child. The book travels back and forth from the ferry among the multiple islands of Shetland, while two more victims crowd the inquiry. Cleeves does a wonderful job with the characters and the setting.
Liz
Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn
Curtis and Rae were deeply in love, as only 17 year olds can be. When Curtis is forced to move away because of his mother's remarriage, they promise they will wait for each other. But life gets in the way. It is now 12 years later and Rae has opened her own law office in the Outer Banks and Curtis, a successful businessman, has returned to the same small town to oversee the operations of a new 5-star resort. Together they must face the past and come to terms with it. As they work together they are able to move forward and deepen their friendship. This is a very well-written story with a little bit of everything in it. Pirates, a treasure map, corruption, adventures and of course friendship and love.
Mac
Bye Bye Blackbird by Elizabeth Crowens
A fun romp in 1930's Hollywood. When dead birds start appearing on the doorsteps of the stars of "The Maltese Falcon", it's up to struggling detectives Babs and Guy to solve the mystery before there are more than just dead birds.
Rose
The Full Circle for Mick by Michael G. Kramer
Mick served in the Australian army in Vietnam. His grandfather had helped to build a railroad years earlier. In previous books by Kramer, he has detailed this history. In this book, he goes back to the 1800s and writes about French colonialism in Vietnam, and traces the history into the 1900s and the Vietnam War. While serving, Mick meets a relative of someone who knew his grandfather, and this connection allows Mick to believe he has come full circle. Mick also describes his struggles with PTSD, his attitude towards the conflict, and his wife's treatment as she tried to send him letters.
This is billed as fiction but is based in history. Interesting timeline of events.
Rose
The Widow by John Grisham
An elderly widow, Eleanor Barnett, asks a lawyer, Simon Latch, to rewrite her will. She claims to be a multi-millionaire, holding stock in Walmart and Coca-Cola. Simon is barely making ends meet and sees Eleanor as a meal ticket to prosperity. He keeps the will a secret from his secretary and advises Eleanor not to tell her former lawyer about the change. However, Simon starts to suspect that Eleanor isn't truthful. When Eleanor's health takes a turn for the worse, Simon is accused of murder for profit. But he swears his innocence. I had stopped reading Grisham but thought I would give his latest a try. Just okay.
Karen
Heart, Life, Music by Kenny Chesney
Loved learning all about this incredible musician.
Pam
The Eyes and the Impossible by Dave Eggers
A beautiful talk about a dog who is the eyes of a public park.
Keeley
Agnes Aubert's Mystical Cat Shelter by Heather Fawcett
A cute and cozy story with lots of cats, magic, and a touch of romance.
Beverly
One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter
A story about the underground/resistance in Italy during WW II.
Darlene
Looking For Alaska by John Green
Excellent young adult read. Read in almost one sitting.
Nina
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
I enjoyed the way the book alternated between the present-day life of the thief and the past Nazi-occupied Paris. It is a mystery combining identity and moral justice.
Wanda
The Guest List by Lucy Foley
A tale of intrigue, secrets and betrayal on an isolated island gathered around for a wedding. Characters written through time from past to future. It begins a few days before the wedding. A page-turner. Secrets come up from the past of the characters. Intense emotions arise and a who-done-it vibe throughout the book. Good story.
Lisa
The Storm by Rachel Hawkins
A long ago murder in this small coastal town brings August, an author, to a small inn. Geneva has taken over the family business and runs the Rosalie Inn. Accompanying August is Lo, who was accused of murdering her married lover. Secrets lie inside the Rosalie Inn as Geneva discovers.
MH
The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave
This is a sequel to Dave’s earlier book, which should be read first. This book provides a conclusion to that one. Hannah and Bailey are again on the run, this time with a well-devised set of plans in place. All bets are off as Bailey’s grandfather dies. The main thing that bothered me about the book was the title. Hannah saw Owen in the first book. Perhaps the title is supposed to refer to Bailey, but the narrator (the “I” character of the title) is Hannah. So when is the “first” time it refers to?
Leslie
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
Really well-written generational story with sympathetic characters. Loved the time frame it’s set in.
Aida
The Maid's Secret by Nita Prose
Easy, cute read.
Sally
The Night of the Crash by Jessica Irena Smith
I enjoyed the “then” and “now” developments as the story progressed. Likable characters.
Jeffrey
On Beauty by Zadie Smith
Full disclosure, I'm a fan of Zadie Smith. I've been enamored of every book of hers I've read. But until a month ago I hadn't read ON BEAUTY, the novel that was on the top ten list of every book listing in 2004, the year it was published. From page one, I was hooked. Great story, great characters, great sense of humor. Almost every sentence glows with a sharp insight into human behavior. If you haven't read her, pick up this novel and WHITE TEETH as soon as possible. You won't regret it.
Judy
The Black Wolf by Louise Penny
Slow start but got good at end, featuring Armand Gammache.
Denise
All This Could Be Yours by Hank Phillippi Ryan
Tessa, a debut author, finds her book, “All This Could Be Yours” becoming a best seller. While on a multi-city book tour, strange things start happening. She shares some of this on social media and her account blows up with super fans wanting more information, especially about a locket Tessa found in her hotel. Her book store events sell out and she has become a superstar author. All this is wonderful except she misses her husband, two children and their brand new home. She can handle this but questions about her childhood, that she'd rather not discuss, keep coming up at the interviews. Is she being stalked by someone who knows of "the bad thing" that happened when she was 10 yrs old? Who is trying to dig into her into her past and why?
Jeanne
Robert B. Parker's Showdown by Mike Lupica
Robert B. Parker’s SHOWDOWN by Mike Lupica was well written, and I thought the author did a great job. I wasn’t a fan of the storyline and it was not my favorite in the Spenser series. I did like the ending, which surprised me.
Joan
West With Giraffes by Lynda Rutledge
Such a great book! I keep recommending it, even to people who rarely read novels.
Anne Marie
Murder at Half Moon Gate by Andrea Penrose
Recently, I have been enjoying historical mysteries. I read a newer one by Andrea Penrose and decided to go back to the beginning and read them all. I've enjoyed watching the relationship develop between Wrex and Lady Charlotte, and I love the "Weasels".
Rosa
The Names by Florence Knapp
I could not put this book down. The story was so compelling and grabbed me right from the beginning. It is a story about domestic abuse and the intriguing idea of how a life may change as a result of one act - a "Sliding Doors" notion. In this case, it is the choice that Cora makes in naming her baby son at the registrar's office. Cora is a battered wife and the choice she makes seemingly changes the path her life takes and what happens in the ensuing thirty-five years to her and her two children. This is an astounding debut novel. Florence Knapp's writing is poetic and beautiful, even in describing horrific details of abuse. I will certainly recommend this for book club.
Susan
Isola by Allegra Goodman
Written in first person in the style of the 16th century, this is brilliant storytelling. The language style really adds to the book's appeal, and the storyteller puts you in the attitudes and beliefs of the 16th century. A great read!
Sean
Last Night by Luanne Rice
Luanne Rice pens a novel about loss, betrayal, and art. It's written in an interesting style where a main character is murdered very early and who did it isn't a mystery but why is. As more characters are introduced, readers start to formulate their own ideas. I liked the characters, for the most part, and thought the multiple red herrings were solid. I really didn't like the ending as to why the murder happened and the climax was a letdown. I was hoping for a "snowed in"-type of mystery/thriller and the blizzard only played a very minor part and was almost instantly forgotten. Overall, a decent read that could have been amped up.
Elizabeth
All the Little Houses by May Cobb
We meet the powerful Anderson family who always get what they want and the Swifts who are new to the town and a family that is old-fashioned. Detailed, drama-filled read for those who are fans of "people" conflict. Takes a while to get into it, but the ending is worth it.
Elizabeth
Broken Country by Clare Leslie Hall
I enjoyed the story and found the trial suspenseful, but I didn't understand why Frank did what he did. It was not necessary and not realistic that someone would do that.
Cindee
The Violin Consipracy by Brendan Slocumb
This book had a slow start, but soon I was whisked away in the mystery of the missing violin for a young Black musician. Not only was there a mystery surrounding the main character, there was also a mystery about the origins of the violin.
Lynda
One Good Thing by Georgia Hunter
This historical fiction novel that takes place during WWII in Italy and is a fascinating and horrifying account of how Jewish people and others suffered. It's a story of courage in spite of fear that drives a young woman to protect her best friend's small child when his mother cannot. And goodhearted people risk their own lives to save endangered Jews. Not an easy read but worthwhile.
Beth
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Ariel Lawhon is known for her "biographical fiction," i.e., historical fiction that is closely based on fact. THE FROZEN RIVER, however, is historical fiction inspired by fact. Although most of the characters did exist, more of the facts about them and around them have been altered or made up.
The main character of THE FROZEN RIVER is a midwife who lives on a farm in Maine with her husband and six children. (Her name was Martha Ballard, and she was an actual person.) She is resourceful and smart and kind, and you'll be happy to know that she is outspoken. Unlike so many of the characters we read about in other books who don't say what we wish they would say, this midwife does. (We can thank Lawhon for the dialogue.)
Kathy
The River Is Waiting by Wally Lamb
This book grabs you in the beginning with a heart-wrenching tragedy, and doesn’t let go! Lamb is a master at getting his readers to see and feel his characters. I recommend this for book clubs as it begs the question: what would you do? A story of emotional pain, love, forgiveness, and some very brutal events. I hurt for the characters; they were so real!
Kimberley
Honor by Thrity Umrigar
Like the main character Smita, the reader is unexpectedly engrossed in the shocking caste world of of India where misogyny and abuse are widely accepted. Smita was removed from this world and immigrated to the American Midwest. She accepts an invite to help a colleague in India where she is convinced to take on an assignment on her friend’s behalf. Her past returns to haunt her as the story following the Indian woman, Meena, unfolds. Smits and Meena share the same story but the differences are heartbreaking.
Diane
Half His Age by Jennette McCurdy
If this is one of the most anticipated books of the year, we are in trouble. There have been other books with a student falling in love with a teacher. This is not one.
Diane
The Divorce Party by Laura Dave
Read several of Laura Dave’s previous books while waiting for her new one to be released. Loved this book. It was not what I expected from the title, but it was very clever.
Diane
The Last Thing He Told Me and The First Time I Saw Him by Laura Dave
Loved both books. Very relaxing and nice escapes from everyday life.
Diane
The Daughters of the Bamboo Grove by Barbara Demick
A nonfiction on the corruption of adoption in China over the years. A real eye-opener. I could not put it down and my book club has just read it and all found it to be a book that stays with you.
Diane
Skylark by Paula McLain
Paula did a lot of research on this book. It was difficult getting into, but once I got into it, it was very good. If could have been shortened.
Diane
The Artist and the Feast by Lucy Steeds
Could not put this book down but felt the ending was abrupt. The ending ruined the book for me.
Diane
London Is the Best City in America by Laura Dave
Very enjoyable book. Could not put it down.
Ruthanne
Every Tom, Dick & Harry by Elinor Lipman
Delightful novel in typical Lipman style. Humorous story about a young woman who runs an estate sale business and finds herself involved in a sale of a former brothel mansion. Easy reading.
Luella
Hour Game by David Baldacci
This was an intense mystery with many twists and turns. Was hard to put down.
Gabriel
The Gardener's Wife's Mistress by Cassondra Windwalker
Despite the heavy topics at the core of the story — grief, betrayal, and discrimination — the story felt soft and gentle in a way. Hayden's grief, along with his anger and longing, was never sensational or cinematic; instead, it settles into every mundane moment. And it worked to draw me in - I felt like I was sitting with him and walking beside him as he finds his way through the pain and confusion. There was a simple warmth to both the characters and the plot. Hayden was an average man with his flaws, but he was always trying and drawn towards compassion. It was lovely to see him finding community and purpose again.
Gabriel
King Bro! by Jenny Jagerfeld
KING BRO! was a simple story focusing on friendship and social transition as a young trans person. It conveyed both the stress and joy of Marcus beginning to live openly as a boy in a way that’s easily digestible for a middle-school-age audience. At home, Marcus was dealing with managing everyone’s reactions to him. While he had support, he didn’t have it easy. I appreciated how the book showed how he had to pick his battles and didn’t always have the energy to deal with every issue or every person’s feelings on the matter. It showed how some of his classmates started to get it and stand up for him on the small things, which took some weight off. It also handled Mikkel finding Marcus’ ID and realizing he was trans in a balanced way.
Terry
The Elements by John Boyne
Excellent character development but so much abuse. Boyne has combined his four novellas into one novel.
Gabriel
A Bit of Murder Between Friends by Elliott Hay
I appreciated seeing representation of an older trans woman and one who came out and began transitioning later in life. It had a different impact on her life than you see with younger characters who haven’t married, had kids, or had a well-established career pre-transition. In the first two chapters, Baz’s trans identity was honestly brought up very awkwardly, first with Madge, then, immediately after, the college girl doing that thing where they say something that sounds overtly transphobic, then when someone reacts, revealing that no, they meant something completely different and are actually totally accepting. That’s never my favorite thing, but doing it twice in a row made it forced.
Rose
Caste in the Stars by Leylah Attar
When Priya returns home to live with her parents after a failed marriage, she doesn't want to continue in the family business, a funeral home that caters to their Indian heritage. Priya's family continues to observe the caste system, which Priya detests. Ethan, her childhood crush and best friend's brother, re-enters her life. He is a Hollywood star, and her parents believe his stature is above theirs. He doesn't care about that and Priya and Ethan fall in love. Yet, when the paparazzi come out, Priya can't handle it, and it all falls apart. But, a sweet little rambunctious kitten has other ideas. A nice romance.
Rose
When the Cranes Fly South by Lisa Ridzén
A moving story of a man who is dying and wants to live the rest of his life with his pet dog, Sixten, alongside him. However, his son doens't think his dad, Bo, is healthy enough to care for the dog. Snippets of home health care workers and Bo reminiscing on his relationships and his life. A beautiful story of aging, loving, dying.
Rose
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
Colette Marceau is a jewel thief. She is a descendant of Robin Hood and has been stealing jewels ever since her beloved mother taught her the family business. She steals from Nazi sympathizers and uses the money gained for good causes, such as the Holocaust Center she founded. She has never gotten over the death of her mother during WWII and the loss of her younger sister. Now, when half of a bracelet pair turns up, along with the owner of the jewels, Colette has to come to terms with her legacy and her family history. I was very interested in the story until the final chapters, and then I felt it was tied up too neatly and a bit unrealistic.
Simonne
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Story told through letters about an aging woman who finds romance, friends and reconnects with family.
Rose
You Have Gone Too Far by Carlene O'Connor
In this third installment of the Dimpna Wilde series, pregnant women are going missing. Fiona and Shauna agree to meet after being warned about danger. Fiona never shows, and Shauna goes to the home of the family planning to adopt her child. They are tied up. A young boy, Dylan, goes missing. Dimpna recalls seeing Shauna, a deaf girl, at the fair. Cormac O'Brien and his partner, Neely, are investigating. They discover there is a compound run by the Shepherd where he lured pregnant women to join his cult. Sinister.
Rose
Twist by Colum McCann
A journalist travels to South Africa to investigate an underwater cable break in the fiber optic network that runs our communications network. As he reports on the break, he examines the relationship of one man in particular, and his influence and effect on the cable break. I wasn't invested in this book at all. It is billed as a statement on climate change and digital communications, but I couldn't get into it.
Rose
Otherwise Engaged by Susan Mallery
Two mothers, two daughters and the relationship of each pair, as well as the perceived relationship that never happened. Ava and Victoria have clashed during their relationship. Cindy and Shannon are extremely close. When the four meet at a wedding venue, Victoria and Shannon realize their moms know each other. Shannon was supposed to be given up for adoption to Ava, but Cindy backed out at the last moment. Victoria is convinced she hasn't gotten along with her mother because she wasn't the child Ava wanted. There are other relationships in this, and Victoria is very guarded with her feelings, while Shannon is afraid of telling her mother things that may upset her.
Frankly, I got tired of the repetition.
Tessa
These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean
Tech billionaire Franklin Storm has died in a tragic accident. This brings his four children back to their family home, Storm Island, for a “not a funeral” but a “celebration.” Dysfunctional family with a capital D, and an exclamation point! It certainly held my attention, but it’s not great literature by a long shot. I did enjoy the sex scenes, which were a nice distraction from all the self-made drama.
Elizabeth
The Elements by John Boyne
Well written, book is in four parts: Water, Earth, Fire and Air. Each has connected storylines and characters. The subject matter is dark: sexual abuse, rape, revenge, victimization. Many trigger warnings, but compulsively readable.
Elizabeth
Heart the Lover by Lily King
One of the best books I've read in a while. It took me 50 pages to get into the story (I was afraid it was becoming a fluffy romance, introducing the three college-aged main characters), but then I couldn't put it down. Recommended.
MariElla
Deep Freeze by Lisa Jackson
Beautiful actress Jenna Hughes leaves Hollywood for Oregon with her two daughters to escape a stalker. An obsessive fan has followed her and terrorizes her and her children. Meanwhile, women who bear a resemblance to Jenna go missing. A handsome detective brings romance to the story, which takes place in extreme cold. Nightmarish and compelling, this book kept me up half the night to see how it ended. Highly recommended.
Vicki
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
Listening to the audio which is read by Meryl Streep, was really good. I’ve read other books by her and always find the characters interesting and complex.
Sandy
Skylark by Paula McLain
Won this book last month in this contest and it was great!! About resistance and rescue during times of the Holocaust and escape from a horrible mental institution. Everyone should read this one.
Vizma
Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino
Could not put it down - the main character is unhinged!
Michael
Twice by Mitch Albom
I love Mitch Albom books. Even with 3 or 4 things (which I can't mention without spoilers so that is all you get) that didn't make sense at all and one thing that was way too convenient, I still enjoyed it immensely! As with his other books, it is very poignant and heartfelt so I can forgive the flaws. I will just say the main character is able to experience things twice. That is the only thing you need to know going in. It is a lot more complicated than that. It is a very quick read and very much worth your time.
Sandy
Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy
Very interesting story about saving wolves and the environment.
Robin
The Case of the Missing Maid by Rob Osler
This delightful story immerses the reader in 1898 Chicago and into the life of Harriet Morrow, the first female detective for the prestigious Prescott Agency. While Harriet in willing to break with some of society’s strict conventions by wearing trousers and riding a bicycle, she is also able to keep an open mind when discovering new facts about her first case, a case her boss tossed her way, fully expecting her to provide a cursory investigation. But while other detectives might have been willing to write off the missing maid, Harriet sees things that speak to a much deeper cause for the woman’s disappearance. Whip smart and feisty, Harriet Morrow is a woman who will stop at nothing to get to the bottom of her investigation.
Amy
The Day the World Came to Town by Jim DeFede
THE DAY THE WORLD CAME TO TOWN was a fast, easy read and overall pretty uplifting. The stories of kindness and generosity in Gander are genuinely heartwarming, and it’s hard not to appreciate the humanity on display. That said, it felt a bit repetitive at times and didn’t quite pull me in emotionally as much as I expected. I’m glad I read it, but it didn’t leave a lasting impression.
Michelle
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Interesting way to write a book. I didn't think I would like it but I enjoyed it very much.
Pamela
Anatomy of a Alibi by Ashley Elston
Absolutely a demand read with twists and a great ending.
Betty Jo
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
I love a novel whose characters live through many decades. This started in the Great Depression and ended in the 1970s. I was iced in last weekend and it was the perfect read for me.
Jana
Skylark by Paula McClain
Excellent excellent book by this author who weaves two stories beautifully!
Sally
Too Old For This by Samantha Downing
What a hysterical, fun murder mystery. Loved it!
Angela
The Tin Men by Alex and Nelson DeMille
THE TIN MEN is both relevant and emotionally challenging with all of its AI scenarios which we will soon be facing. Scenarios that may not be as frightening as the robotic fleet of Tin Men in this story, but a bit daunting in the day-to-day discoveries and decisions we will soon be making. I found this story to be creative and innovatively thought-provoking.
Michelle
Little One by Olivia Muenter
Books about cults always pique my interest so I was excited to pick this one up. Catharine is living a quiet, hidden life 10 years after leaving her family's farm when an investigative journalist, Reese, identifies her as the daughter of a cult leader and threatens to expose all her secrets. The storyline alternates between the present with Reese's investigation and the past as Catharine's story is gradually revealed. I loved how the story unraveled, the mystery of who Reese's informant is, and how an idyllic life on a farm slowly turned into a cultish depraved existence. This is less about the actual cult and more about the aftermath and how Catharine is dealing with her complicity, despite being a child at the time.
Fran
The Thread by Victoria Hislop
Great historical fiction. The setting and historical perspectives were worth the read. Character development could have been stronger on this one. I've read her other book, THE ISLAND and thought it was stronger.
Debbie
The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
THE GIVER OF STARS was such a great book. Describing the librarians and their hardship in getting books to the remote areas was another testament that women are strong, dedicated and kind.
Marcia
Hostage by Eli Sharabi
Mr. Sharabi takes the reader through the experience of an Israeli hostage being held in Gaza. From the first moments of the October 7th attack to his experiences with his captors and his bonds with other prisoners, readers are dragged through the experience. Just as NIGHT told us of Holocaust atrocities with vivid language and honesty, HOSTAGE does the same with the same message looking toward life.
Susan
The Midnight Bookshop by Amanda James
Good friends, good books, mysterious bookshop. Perfect for those that enjoy a little fantasy.
Lee
The Proving Ground by Michael Connelly
A very good Lincoln Lawyer thriller.
Lisa
We Are All Guilty Here by Karin Slaughter
I liked most everything about this book, but it dragged on and on. First off there are 80+ characters referred to so I was constantly looking back. It was not a fast read for me. While I put 4 stars due to plot, if I could I’d rank it closer to 3.5-3.75 stars.
Wanda
Will to Murder by Gail Feichtinger, John Desaanto and Gary Waller
This is a true crime story of the heiress Elisabeth Congdon and what happened that dreadful night of her murder. There is in-depth history of the family and the adopted daughter Marjorie. Great insight and deep dive investigative journalism is what this book is about. Very interesting. Hard to put down.
Leslie
Buckeye by Patrick Ryan
Epic American novel spanning from WWII to Vietnam War. Small town families and the impact of the war form a story that I became completely invested in. Loved this book!
Erin
King Sorrow by Joe Hill
Even at 870-plus pages, this was a fast-paced page-turner that never felt too long. When Arthur gets in trouble, his friends rally around him and end up summoning a dragon to eliminate the threat. Unfortunately, King Sorrow isn't done with them and his vengeance exacts a terrible price. An extraordinary tale of love, regret, grief, addiction and redemption--and a truly terrifying dragon.
Sonia
Tokyo Express by Seichō Matsumoto
Recommended for those who love to read mysteries and are looking for something a little different in the telling.
Eileen
Homeschooled by Stefan Merrill Block
A coming-of-age memoir of being home-schooled from 4th-8th grade by a loving but dysfunctional
mother.
Carolyn
The Typewriter and the Guillotine by Mark Braude
The story rotates between the hapless serial killer and a journalist, who really is a woman, simply writing about events taking place in Paris, then in France, then in the wider European theater in the run up to WWII. The author dives deep into both of their very divergent lives as he weaves the paths ever closer to crossing. I listened to the audiobook, which made the experience so much better as my French is terrible and hearing it as it should be is was amazing. If you are looking for a true-crime book, this may be for you.
Gayle
Dont Let Him In by Lisa Jewell
Predictable.
Meggan
Michael Without Apology by Catherine Ryan Hyde
Uplifting story that explores the topic of body shaming. A college student's class project takes an unexpected turn that impacts his life in surprising ways.
Sean
F Is for Fugitive by Sue Grafton
Sue Grafton is just a good writer. She tells straight forward crime/mystery thriller that is always pleasing. Here, she takes a case involving a dysfunctional family to say the least but they also seem so realistic. It's in a small town that also becomes a character. With so many people lying for so many different reasons, the book was fun to try to solve and the finale was very satisfying. Overall, just incredibly, consistently good.
Susann
84, Charing Cross Road by Helene Hanff
This is a very short book written in letter form, the correspondence of Helene, a writer in New York City, and a used-book dealer in London. I read it in an afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed it. I bought it because Virginia Evans mentioned it as some of her inspiration to use this form of writing in her own novel, THE CORRESPONDENT.
Mary
Death in the Countryside by Maria Malone
Interesting plot, plucky heroine, and adorable, hard-working Wilson, a police dog. Great English countryside, too.
Nonie
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Because the book was all letters to several people, it was hard to keep track of what was going on. The writing was very good. A member of our book club said she listened to the audio and it was much better because the various characters were voiced by different people and it was easy to keep track of them.
Shana
Wait for Me by Amy Jo Burns
From the first lines to the very last, every word of this book is meaningful. I underlined so many phrases I loved. You can tell how much heart Amy put into writing this book. Elle Harlow performed at the Grand Ole Opry in 1973, after two successful albums, never to be seen again. Then in Part One of the book, we meet Marijohn Shaw, a college-aged girl who plays the mandolin and sings with her boyfriend Lazarus, out in the country, when a meteor strikes. He happened to record the moment of them singing with the meteor, a moment which changes both of their lives in monumental ways. There are so many surprises to be found in this book. Most things probably aren’t going to go the way you expect them to.
Luella
The Break-In by Katherine Faulkner
This is an excellent read. It has suspense and drama. The plot is clever and slowly plays out. The ending is shocking. Definitely recommend to mystery lovers.
Sandy
The Bright Years by Sarah Damoff
Not my usual genre but I enjoyed it very much. This is a loving story of a Texas family shadowed by the power of addiction. The journeys of Lillian, Jet, and Ryan Bright are tender, tragic and triumphant.
Suzanne
Fallen by Linda Castillo
I am reading this Amish series in order. FALLEN finds Kate Burkholder trying to solve the murder of a former Amish women Kate knew as a young girl. Why she came back to Painers Mill after all these years is what Kate is trying to find out. She has to go back to a secret hidden long ago.
Beth
Vagabond by Tim Curry
I very much enjoyed Curry's wit about his childhood, professional life, and 2012 stroke. His views of life are comical and positive in spite of his debilitating stroke. Many chapters are titled from lines of his work (i.e. the chapter concerning his work on the movie "Clue" is titled "I buttle, sir!"). This book left me with a warm glow and not just from Curry's witty remarks.
Rose
Worst Wingman Ever by Abby Jimenez
Holly receives a note on her car meant for someone else. She is caring for her dying grandmother and after a few more back and forth notes, she doesn't think she will ever find out who left the notes. Then she meets him, John, an electrician who manages her building when he comes to repair a door. A meet-cute novella with a happy ending.
Rose
The Fall Risk by Abby Jimenez
Charlotte and Seth are trapped on the second floor of their apartment building when the contractors took out their stairs. Charlotte is terrified to leave her apartment because of a stalker. Seth is funny and kind and draws her out. They spend the weekend together stuck on the second floor and he tries to make her more comfortable. Seth is getting over a divorce, and Charlotte is the right person to help him move forward. There is a bit of humor with the elderly ladies who Seth tutors, to counter the tense stalker situation.
Gabriel
My Body Unspooling by Leo Fox
Leo Fox’s bizarre and surreal art beautifully captured a conflict between body and mind. It dived into a disconnect that could stem from dysmorphia or gender dysphoria, but could also arise in anyone trying to reconcile the animal needs of the body, the unrefined physicality of it, and the self/the mind/the soul that sees itself as something greater or something other, limited by the body’s reality. The strange, distorting world Lucille lived in showcased the dreamlike detachment from the physical world that Lucille longs for but also flees from.
Gabriel
Welcome to St. Hell by Lewis Hancox
There was so much relatability in Hancox’s story of trans youth – claiming your gender when you’re younger, then losing that as you get a little older, and gender roles are pushed harder, really trying to be your assigned gender and still somehow being clocked as something ‘other’ or something confusing, panicking at signs of puberty and ignoring them hard like that will make them go away. Adolescent angst and awkwardness took on that extra layer when such a basic part of yourself was repressed and hurting. Through all that, it was nice to see the support system for Hancox, even while most people in his town were ignorant as to what it actually meant to be trans.
Marcia
A Million Tomorrows by Kris Middaugh
I almost didn't finish this book but I'm glad I did because, wow, what an ending.
Marcia
The Lost Ballerina by Deanna Lynn Sletten
She did some good research into the life of a ballet dancer. Other books I've seen about dance often didn't put dancers and dance companies in a good light.
Marcia
Murder in the Crypt by Irina Shapiro
Good mystery. Set in a small town in England right after America's Civil War. An American goes to England to check on property he inherited and he becomes involved in solving a mystery.
Rose
Seven Days by Alex George
A 15-year-old girl is taken and held in a basement for 12 years. Over this time, she has had 3 sons. On their third birthday, her captor takes the child from her. Now, it is 7 days before her son's birthday and she knows she only has 7 days to form a plan to escape. Not only does this book detail the trauma of being captive, but the toll it takes on the family she left behind. It also imagines what the captor might be like, and how they fit in society unnoticed, as well as the investigator that won't let the case go. I enjoyed this thriller, but it also made me quite sad.
Rose
Gone So Long by Andre Dubus III
I really enjoy reading Dubus's novels. They are always so moving and so poignant. Daniel Ahearn is dying and as a last act he wants to see his daughter. He has not seen Susan since she was 3 years old. He was imprisoned for killing his wife, Linda, and now he is a changed man helping the elderly. He wants to let his daughter know of his sorrow and how he has always thought of her. Susan is a writer and married, after being raised by her grandmother. Her husband is a kind and loving man, but Susan isn't sure she feels anything. She isn't sure she wants to see her father, and her grandmother is very much against it. This is a story of searching for forgiveness, of regret, and how sorrow and trauma never leaves you.
Rose
The Accidental Favorite by Fran Littlewood
When a woman notices her husband choosing to save one of their three daughters over the other two, she can't believe her eyes. This incident causes her, and the whole family, to look at their relationships to each other and how they are considered by each other. Everyone believes Eva to be the favorite, the most beautiful, the most successful, and they start to compare their lives to her.
It is an examination of family dynamics, as well as the struggles of marriage and adulthood.
Rose
Unsheltered by Barbara Kingsolver
A married couple moves into an inherited dilapidated house, and the contractor tells them they should raze it. They can't, and they look for ways to help ease the financial burden. The husband's father is dying and they care for him. He is a racist bigot and has no filter. Additionally, their son's girlfriend has died, leaving him and a newborn son behind. The son is not able to handle the child. Their carefree daughter has returned to help and raise the child. Why isn't their life working out the way they planned? As Willa tries to manage her family and their finances, she looks into the history of the house and discovers that science teacher Thatcher Greenwood lived there. His neighbor, Mary Treat, supported Darwin's theory.
Rose
Writers and Lovers by Lily King
Casey Peabody is struggling. Struggling in her career as a writer, in her life after her mother's death, and in her loves who never seem to work. But now, at 31, she is finishing her book, she is coming to terms with the death of her mom, and she has met two men who are attracted to her. This story is beautifully written, truly showing the struggles of a young person trying to find her way. I read this book out of order, having read HEARAT THE LOVER first, and knew a bit of what would happen, but I still loved it. Highly recommend.
Wunna
Breaking the Cycle by Jak Bazino
BREAKING THE CYCLE took my breath away. It’s not just a novel, it’s a mirror held up to history and the human soul. Jak Bazino weaves past and present with such precision that every chapter feels alive with urgency and hope. The portrayal of courage amid Myanmar’s struggles moved me deeply, leaving echoes long after the last page. I felt both shattered and uplifted. This book doesn’t just tell a story, it transforms the reader. A masterpiece of empathy, resistance, and timeless truth.
Tessa
These Summer Storms by Sarah MacLean
Tech billionaire Franklin Storm has died in a tragic accident. This brings his four children back to their family home, Storm Island, for a “not a funeral” but a “celebration.” Dysfunctional family with a capital D, and an exclamation point! It certainly held my attention, but it’s not great literature by a long shot. I did enjoy the sex scenes, which were a nice distraction from all the self-made drama.
Sally
Dear Debbie by Freida McFadden
Frieda does it again! Another twisted murder mystery. I didn’t see the ending coming. One of her better stories, full of how and who!!
Betty
All the Young Men: A Memoir of Love, AIDS and Chosen Families by Ruth Coker Burks
Told with brutal honesty, a young, single mother finds her calling early in the AIDS epidemic. When people are afraid and bigoted, she steps up to assist dying shunned men who have no one to help them. Shunned by her church and some friends, she finds unique ways to raise funds, provide meals and assist with getting government services. She’s resilient tells these stories with determination and a sense of humor.
Darlene
The Emporer of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
Started off good but became wordy and lengthy. Storyline was "way out there".
Pam
Mona's Eyes by Thomas Schlesser
A very detailed book about loving art enough to view it through clear eyes.
Sally-Jo
All the Broken Places by John Boyne
Great book about a woman whose father was a Nazy Commadant of a concentration camp.
Michelle
Antihero by Gregg Hurwitz
I am an ORPHAN X completist and look forward to each and every new release. This latest installment is based on sexual abuse in the immigrant community with very few breaks in the dark cadence (as in other Hurwitz novels). Current events had me thinking that the timing of the publication was incredibly tone deaf. More Joey, Dog, HOA interludes could have made this a more palatable read.
Beth
The Wife by Alafair Burke
Alafair Burke is a popular author. I've been seeing her books for years and reading many favorable reviews of them. After reading her book, THE WIFE, this is my impression: not bad and not great.
The wife is Angela. She's another gorgeous woman who marries a rich man. I say "another" because that is nothing new; it is the beginning of such a typical scenario in so many popular novels I was already ho-humming. The rich husband is Jason, and he is accused of a crime. Of course, the wife stands by the husband even after she learns more about what he has been up to. But Angela has a secret of her own. She's told part of her secret to a few people, but only her mother knows all the truth. How far will she go to protect the whole secret?
Luella
The Note by Alafair Burke
The story unfolds slowly but is described perfectly. Two mysteries entangled. Kept waiting for the truth.
Kathie
The Will of the Many by James Islington
This clever, first-in-a-series, fantasy novel is riveting. The world is unique and smart, and the main character has you rooting for him from the start. And the ending...oh. my goodness, I need to get my hands on the next book immediately!
jana
Keeper of Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson
Loved this historical book and learned more about the brown baby campaign in our history!
Denise
Propaganda Girls by Lisa Rogak
A group biography of four women who worked as allied propagandists during WWII, Betty, Zuzka, Jane, and Marlene. It's a story of four unsung heroes and successful soldiers in one of our first information wars using misinformation to turn the tide of war by using deception via propaganda to break the morale of Axis soldiers. I took notes from the book: Members of the OSS, European theater, occupied China, Washington, D.C., forged letters and "official" military orders, scripted radio broadcasts and songs, and even developed rumors for undercover spies and double agents to spread to the enemy. Great book full of fascinating information.
Marilyn
This House Will Feed by Maria Tureaud
A well-written historical fiction novel that truly explored the devastation of the Great Famine in Ireland with a touch of Gothic and the supernatural.
Marilyn
Twice by Mitch Albom
TWICE by Mitch Albom was a touching and moving book about a young boy as he navigated his way through his life. Some might say he was blessed. Others might say he was cursed. He possessed a gift that was passed down through the generations of his family.
MH
A Guardian and a Thief by Megha Majumdar
Having read A BURNING when it came out, I really wanted to see the direction this book would take. It focuses on a period of famine in India and what people will do to feed their children. Ma gets passports for herself, her father, and her child to join her husband in the U.S., but a thief steals food and her purse during the night. She and her father take steps to recover the documents but bring a bigger threat into their lives. I did wonder why she kept the bad news from her husband. The sense of hopelessness that pervades the book is alleviated somewhat by the child, who seems very advanced vocally for two years.
Janet
The Missing Half by Ashley Flowers
Worth reading for the surprise ending.
Sheree
Nobody’s Girl: A Memoir of Surviving Abuse and Fighting for Justice by By Virginia Robert Giuffre
What a great book about a horrible subject. She was such a fighter and had such a horrible life. It is so tragic that she ended her life and couldn’t be there for her children.
Debbie
The Blue Hour by Paula Hawkins
Paula Hawkins writes an exciting and well-crafted novel. She employs short chapters and brief journal entries of artist Vanessa Chapman. Each of the characters contribute to the narrative. The water plays an important role in the story as the tide controls when individuals may enter or leave the island Eris. This sense of control creates a feeling of loneliness and despair at times. James Backer travels to Eris to speak with Grace Haswell, the executor of Vanessa’s estate. A sculpture by Grace creates tension as an anthropologist claims a human bone hangs in the glass-enclosed sculpture. Hawkins presents the life of Vanessa, Grace, James, and Julian through journals and the entwined history of these individuals. Mysteries lay hidden!
Ivy
Central Park West by James Comey
A thrilling, twisted who-done-it about the murder of a former governor. The suspects are all suspicious, but it's the ending that presents the true turn of motivations as to who orchestrated the murder. Comey is right up there with other legendary mystery and suspense writers.
Pam
Bad Bad Girl by Gish Jen
Very interesting memoir/novel based on the author's relationship with her mother. Her mother is deceased so parts of the book are written as if the discussion is taking place in the present. Display of different cultures (Chinese and American) and how they meshed or didn’t and the struggles of immigrants and women in the 1950s until now.
Mary
Book of Lives by Margaret Atwood
Atwood is such an astute (and slightly cynical) observer of human behavior. She applies this ability to herself as well as with her friends and fellow writers. Her wit is on target, but her compassion knows no bounds in this telling of her beginnings as an author.
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.
Joan
The Book Woman's Daughter by Kim Michele Richardson
Not as good as the first book.
Betty Jo
A Marriage at Sea by Sophie Elmhirst
True story of a British couple who survived 118 days at sea in a raft.
Lynda
The Housemaid Is Watching by Freida McFadden
I enjoyed the first two Housemaid thrillers in a series of three, but the final one fell flat. Years later, Millie has all she ever wanted including her husband, Enzo, and their two kids. Sure enough, she no sooner moves into her dream house when trouble starts. Unlikable Enzo irritated me, and besotted Millie put up with him. I liked the strong, savvy Millie much better.
Sandra
Wayward Girls by Susan Wiggs
Enjoyed the many references to the 1960s and to the Buffalo area and learning about the horrors of a facility run by nuns that took advantage of girls instead of teaching them and treating them with humanity. It was very nostalgic and eye-opening.
Gabriel
Simplicity by Mattie Lubchansky
SIMPLICITY delivered an anti-capitalist, anti-facist message through the lens of a satirical tech dystopia mixed with a cult murder mystery. While these themes and the overall message of taking action rather than excusing your complicity as just what you have to do to survive were ones that I agree wholeheartedly with, some of the elements were on-the-nose or satirical to the point that it undermined the message. The ending seemed to be delivering a powerful moment of self-reflection and agency on Lucius’ behalf, but it was meshed together with laughable caricatures of meathead cops and evil billionaires and delivered in an unsubtle way.
Gabriel
A Mean Piece of Water by Jes McCutchen
This was off to the races immediately, starting right after Dani was attacked by her cousin, and it did not slow down from there. I understand the desire to jump into a high-stakes moment to grab the reader's attention, but I felt that the way it introduced everything presumed I knew more about these characters, their relationships, and their world than I actually did. It never really walked it back either, or gave me a good place to get situated in their story, just barreling ahead. I would have benefited from seeing some of the lead-up to the attack or the attack itself to know and care more about what was going on.
Maria
Meredith, Alone by Claire Alexander
This was my first 5-star read of the year. The main character has not left her home in over three years due to an attack, and the book is about her healing and journey of reconnecting with family that has hurt her in the past and making new friends that meet her where she's at.
Maria
Project Hail Mary by Andy Weir
I read this in preparation for the upcoming movie adaptation. I used immersive reading where I listened to the audiobook as I read. It was very entertaining even though the science part of it was not easy to follow. The human and alien part of the story was fun.
Rose
Small Great Things by Jodi Picoult
I always learn something from Jodi Picoult's books. This one examines white supremacy, prejudice, and bigotry. A Black labor and delivery nurse chose this profession after seeing her mother deliver a baby for their White employer. When a White supremacist couple sees her handling their newborn, they request her removal. Later, when the child dies, the nurse is accused of murder. An interesting trial, and the growth of the attorney who represents the nurse, those who voice their support or opposition to the nurse, and the racial biases are all examined. I really appreciated the author's note at the end.
Rose
Daikon by Samuel Hawley
What if the U.S. planned to drop a third bomb on Japan during WWII, yet the mission failed and the Japanese recovered the bomb? DAIKON imagines this scenario and the Japanese who championed a return to Japanese imperialism. Within the war story is also a love story. I didn't know what to expect from this novel, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it.
Rose
Last Resort by Andrew Lipstein
An author is struggling to write his novel and get it published. He picks up and moves to concentrate on his writing career. He asks an old college acquaintance if he can stay with him. While there, the college friend recounts a story, which the writer takes and rewrites into a novel. The novel sells, and the college friend asks for recognition of his contribution. The writer doesn't want to agree, so he thinks of a way to take revenge on the college friend. I found the writer's reaction to many things odd, but not surprising.
Rose
Love & Saffron by Kim Fay
I loved this epistolary story of two women who meet through correspondence. One reads an article the other wrote, and sends her appreciation through a letter. This begins a long correspondence where the two women share thoughts, feelings, recipes, relationship stories, and so much more.
A beautiful story of friendship.
Rose
Twice by Mitch Albom
3.5 stars rounded to 4 of 5 stars. Alfie has a gift. He can relive an event in his life by saying the word "twice". So when an event happens that Alfie wishes to "do-over", he does. But, there is a catch - he can only do that one time, and the other people involved have no memory of the original event.
Within this story is the story of a true love and what someone will do to achieve a long, lasting love.
Heartwarming.
Judy
The Widow by John Grisham
Slower than some of his books. A lawyer writes a will for a woman he thinks is rich.
Sandra
Life and Death and Giants by Ron Rindo
A baby is born to a young girl by a veterinary neighbor. The baby is very big and very long, the biggest baby ever born. The mother dies but the baby lives and this is the story of that baby boy. What a story it is! The best book I have read in years!
Francisca
The Underground Library by Jennifer Ryan
3.5 stars. Historical fiction based on the real-life events that occurred during the Blitz in London during World War II. I found this an engaging and interesting story. I was already aware of some stories regarding the Blitz and how devastating it was for Londoners. Ryan’s story made me really care about the people who endured this. She gave me characters with varied backgrounds and individual challenges but whose shared experiences and goal to save the library bonded them together.
Linda
Mona's Eyes by Thomas Schlesser
Lots of historical facts about famous painters and their paintings. Based on giving a little girl insight to paintings from her grandfather.
Lana
The Nine by Gwen Strauss
True story of nine women who escaped the concentration camp. I especially liked the pictures of the women then and now. Great story.
Audrey
The Last Time I Was Me by Cathy Lamb
Enjoyed it immensely! Laugh-out-loud funny while still making you think and feel. Overall, well worth the reading time. Picked this up from Kindle Unlimited.
Kathy
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
The book is definitely in my top 5 ever read! Theo is a wonderful character and draws so many people in Golden out of their shells. My book club watched the Bookaccino Live with Mr. Levi a few days before we met to discuss his book. Perfect timing for a perfect book!
Marilyn
Inharmonious by Tammye Huf
INHARMONIOUS by Tammye Huf gave the reader a rare in-depth look at the life of several African American citizens that resided in the state of Florida. Their journeys spanned from the 1930s, World War II, the enforcement of the Jim Crowe laws and beyond. Author Tammye Huf based her novel on actual events that members of her family actually endured, witnessed and experienced. I highly recommend it.
Maria
Dear Debbie by Freida McFadden
This is my first book by this author. She is so hyped on social media that I was having FOMO (Fear of Missing Out). The writing is so simplistic, requires suspension of belief to the next level, and yet I was somehow rooting for Debbie in the end. Not sure I'll pick anything up by Freida any time soon but this one was okay.
Dee
The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight
A solid literary fiction of motherhood, family, friendship with a slight mystery of family relationships.
I liked the character-driven plot, and while I understand the metaphor of why the title uses the reference of the octopus, I believe it is a poor title. It easily confuses the reader as they think it will be similar to REMARKABLY BRIGHT CREATURES, where the octopus is a character.
Rose
Transcendent Kingdom by Yaa Gyasi
Gifty, an immigrant from Ghana, is struggling with her faith and with suffering in her family. She was raised in an evangelical community, and others don't share her deep devotion. Then, there is suffering. First, the loss of her brother due to an overdose of oxycontin, after being prescribed it when he was injured. Then, her mother is depressed and suicidal, never getting out of her bed. Gifty struggles with understanding her faith as she sees suffering all around her. Gifty decides to pursue a career in neuroscience to determine if she can find a scientific reason for all the emotional suffering. She has obsessions that she needs to face. Another great novel from Gyasi.
Ann
Bag of Bones by Stephen King
One of King's lesser-known works, but still a very good read.
Rose
The Girl He Used To Know by Tracey Garvis Graves
Jonathan and Annika meet in 1991 in college. Both play on the chess team, and as they get to know each other, they fall in love. However, after a tragic event, Annika, who is on the spectrum, can't handle it and they break up. Now, 10 years later, there is a chance encounter where they meet again. They try again, taking it slowly. Jonathan accepts all of Annika's quirks, and she learns to love and express her feelings with his gentle guidance. This was a beautiful love story.
Jeanne
Return of the Spider by James Patterson
RETURN OF THE SPIDER by James Patterson is a well-written, fast-paced thriller with lots of suspense and drama. The storyline was not what I expected and I wasn’t a fan of the way it starts in the present and goes back to the past. It was an intense read that kept me on the edge of my seat.
sherry
The Surgeon by Tess Gerritsen
I loved this book! It was full of suspense from the beginning to the very end!
Linda
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
This is the best book I have read in a long time! I wanted to spend much more time with Sybil. She is/was an amazing lady!
Susan
My Brilliant Friend by Elena Ferrante
Intense examination of the childhood and adolescent friendship of two girls growing up poor in Naples beginning in the mid-50s. Detailed setting and neighborhood descriptions place you in the time and culture. A large retinue of characters interact with the girls, their parents, teachers, and boys in the neighborhood over the years (which is thankfully listed in the beginning of the book.) Definitely "a show-not-tell" look at the girls' psychological development. The first book of the Neopolitan Novels of Ferrante. Reading the remaining three novels means committing to more than 1850+ pages in all. I need a break before continuing. Other books are calling...
Liz
The Storm by Rachel Hawkins
Forty years ago in St. Mednard’s Bay, Alabama, a hurricane with devastating force came through. A politician’s son was found dead, thought to have been a victim of the storm, only to find out he was murdered. His teenage mistress was put on trial, but nothing could be proven so she was set free. Now forty years later she is back, with a writer, determined to tell her story and clear her name. The ending was like peeling the layers of an onion - just when you think you know “who done it” another possibility pops up.
Elizabeth
The Star Society by Gabriella Saab
Readers meet twin sisters during and after the war as Ms. Saab takes us from occupied Netherlands to Hollywood during the Red Scare. The writing and storyline are beautiful as always with Ms. Saab’s books. THE STAR SOCIETY did take a bit of warming up at the start, but the story ultimately will capture the attention of historical fiction fans and fans of Hollywood, and you won’t want to stop reading.
Luella
Presumed Guilty by Scott Turow
Excellent read. Murder mystery and courtroom drama. One of the best books I've read.
Anna
The Emperor of Gladness by Ocean Vuong
This is a story about loss, hope and how some people would do just about anything to have a second chance in life. The characters are all people who live on the fringe of poverty and society. Through love, friendship and labor, the most unlikely people sometimes become close…closer than family. Some people lie not only to others but to themselves in order to survive their struggles in life. The author does a great job of describing the characters and helping us understand how they feel.
I find that books recommended through Oprah’s Book Club are depressing, but this time I think I was prepared for it.
Lisa
Separation of Church and Hate by John Fugelsang
The subtitle says it all: "A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds" and is an in-your-face rebuttal for those who vote for politicians who claim to be Christian, but have no idea what the Bible actually says or who take snippets out of context. I think this should be required reading for everyone!
Sally
The Storm by Rachel Hawkins
A great mystery story. Hawkins keeps you tied up and guessing throughout!
Rose
The Mysterious Mrs. Nixon: The Life and Times of Washington’s Most Private First Lady by Heath Hardage Lee
In this biography of Pat Nixon, the author tells the story of a woman who changed the role of the First Lady of the U.S. While she didn't enjoy publicity, she proved to be a valuable asset to her husband while campaigning for various public offices. Richard Nixon relied on her advice, including when she suggested putting women in prominent positions. However, I do think the author wasn't neutral in her writing. She seemed to leap praise on Nixon and always presented her in a favorable light. I did learn quite a bit about Pat Nixon so I appreciated that aspect of the book.
Rose
Still Life by Sarah Winman
During WWII in Italy, Ulysses Temper meets Evelyn Skinner. Ulysses is a British soldier and Evelyn is trying to save the art treasures in Florence. Their meeting leaves a profound mark on each of their lives. When Ulysses returns to England, his wife, Peg, has had a love affair with an American soldier and has a daughter, Alys. An Italian, Arturo, leaves Ulysses his entire estate, including a home in Florence, as thanks for saving his life. Ulysses moves with Alys and Cress, a friend, and Claude, the parrot. The novel takes place over several decades. It explores love, marriage, and there are several LGBTQ characters in a time where this was forbidden. It also relates several historic events, such as the flooding in Florence. Sweeping.
Rose
Sipsworth by Simon Van Booy
Helen Cartwright is 83 and living in England, having moved back from Australia after her husband and son have died. She notices a neighbor taking out some trash and she recovers a fish tank from the pile. Later, she realizes that she has brought a mouse into her home. What follows is a sweet story of how this mouse, and the people she enlists to help her care for the mouse, give Helen a new lease on life. Very sweet story. I enjoyed it so much that I re-read it as soon as I finished the first read-through.
Natalie
The Life of Chuck by Stephen King
Stephen King never fails to redefine his writing. I don’t feel like there’s much I can say without spoiling the story. If you are looking for short fiction that delivers, this is what you seek.
Sean
All Systems Red by Martha Wells
Aren't we all just Murderbots at heart? We just want to be left alone with our shows and not have to deal with...people. Martha Wells writes a really fun science fiction novel that is more about personality than the "science" part of it. Murderbot grows more than most characters in novels today and does so in under 150 pages. That is a gripe of mine. While I don't need every book to be a tome, this was incredibly short and could have been another hundred pages without hurting the story. Wells does a remarkable job, though, instilling heart into a character who shouldn't have one. Overall, just unique and fun.
Beth
The Jackal's Mistress by Chris Bohjalian
THE JACKAL'S MISTRESS proves again why Chris Bohjalian is one of my favorite authors. Although I usually prefer thrillers, and this is not that. THE JACKAL'S MISTRESS is historical fiction that is just as riveting. Back in 2003, Bohjalian was assigned by Reader's Digest to write a Civil War-era account of two people, one on the Union side of the war, the other a Confederate, who few people had heard of. This true story led to THE JACKAL'S MISTRESS. It is fiction, but a story like this one really did happen. A young woman like Libby really did help a Union soldier like Captain Weybridge after her servant, a freed slave who was also based on a real person, found this injured officer.
