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Dolora Schlesinger (Dolora647@aol.com)
Green Mountain White Cloud by Francious Cheng
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a love story in the Ming Dynasty between two people who found each other after many years.
Lady Ling is now married and Dao-sheng cannot approach her because of Chinese culture. It is a spiritual book of love and waiting.
SSR
Cezanne Is Missing by Frank McMillan
Rating: 5 Stars
CEZANNE IS MISSING is a great read! It's a fast-paced adventure in which a 15-year-old girl learns about the Holocaust when she becomes entangled in a mystery linking past and present. She must race against time to decode the diary of a Warsaw Ghetto Resistance fighter if she is to save the life of her favorite art teacher, Mrs. Rosen --- a Holocaust survivor and internationally-acclaimed sculptor.
Christy
Copy Cat by Erica Spindler
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a totally chilling and spellbinding roller-coaster read with twists and turns from start to finish. I couldn't put this book down, and I was kept guessing from one minute to the next who the killer(s), might be. Kitt and M.C. make a great team and were very believable, as were all of the other characters. I was left hoping and wanting more for Kitt.
Christy
Fantasy Fix by Christine Warren
Rating: 3 Stars
This vampire erotica read was totally fun and enjoyable. There's not much action or adventure outside of the bedroom, but plenty of sex going on throughout the whole book.
Pamela S. Jones
Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna Landvik
Rating: 5 Stars
This was the CHATTER Reading Group's favorite book in the 2 years since the formation of our club. It has something for everyone: science fiction, intrigue, and romance. Although I reread the first chapter twice, the plot soon fell into place. A very interesting twist on the old-time traveling story.
Christy
Sexy Beast by Kate Douglas, Noelle Mack and Vivi Anna
Rating: 3 Stars
Three erotic supernatural romances with were-hunks in the forms of Wolf, Tiger and Jaguar are contained in this anthology.
"Chanku Rising" by Kate Douglas reunites us with Xandi and Stefan, and Keisha and Anton, from Kate's previous book, WOLF TALES. This story alone deserves 5 stars.
"Tiger, Tiger" by Noelle Mack is set In the Tibetan Himalayas, were Dani falls during a climb and Jack, the shape-shifting snow-tiger rescues her.
"Night of the Jaguar" by Vivi Anna is a supernatural romance between Myra and her were-jaguar rescuer, Xalvador.
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
Breathing Lessons by Anne Tyler
Rating: 4 Stars
Now I know why I like Anne Tyler. This book is about a couple, Maggie and Ira. Maggie is an interesting character --- she reminds me of the woman who rescues Edward Scissorhands after his creater dies and he is left in that big house by himself. Maggie tries so hard to make her and everyone else's life better, even if it means meddling. The story starts off on their journey to her friend's husband's memorial service. There are several flashbacks in this book that help give the background of her friends and family and how she met Ira, etc.
The author also changes the voice from Maggie to Ira. Ira is a quiet man. His life didn't take the path he had planned --- he wanted to go to college but he ended up taking over his father's business and helping his father and two sisters that live in the apartment above the shop. Ira and Maggies children made their life challenging. Jesse, their son, quit school, got married at 18 after getting his girlfriend pregnant, and went from job to job. Daisy, their daughter, was really smart and received a full scholarship for college but spent all of her time at her friend's house, totally shutting out Maggie and Ira.
The book was a good depiction of the mistakes made by people who are different in the way they view life. Maggie, always thinking of ways to take action and make things right, and Ira who stays out of situations until the very last minute, before erupting in a whirlwind of truth that totally pulls the situation back into perspective.
I enjoyed this book. I love Anne Tyler. Highly recommended!
Janice Mac
Beach Road by James Patterson and Peter de Jonge
Rating: 3 Stars
Although the story was good, the style of writing was confusing --- entire chapters were from a particular character's perspective, and then it would sudden shift to another character for a couple of chapters. Although each chapter had a heading that indicated which character's perspective it was, when I am reading, I don't tend to look at chapter titles or headings, I just start reading the "meat." This causes confusion when your mindset is focused on one character, and then all of a sudden, things don't make sense and it becomes obvious that it is no longer that character. I didn't care for this style.
Janice Mac
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
MHC has done it again. She is a master at keeping you on the edge.
Donna L.
The Empty Chair by Jeffery Deaver
Rating: 4 Stars
Another book in the Lincoln Rhyme series (if you are a fan). Lincoln decides to go for experimental surgery. While waiting, he and Amelia will solve another crime. It's another great book.
JM
Digging To America by Anne Tyler
Rating: 4 Stars
This is captivatingly cute book. I couldn't put it down once I started it. Two girls from Korea were adopted and arrived at Baltimore airport on the same day. The two families have nothing in common but the girls, but they grow closer as the girls grow older. I don't think my description did this book justice. Read it, you'll love it.
Karla Hodde
Honeymoon by James Patterson
Rating: 5 Stars
Wonderful, fast paced, and intriguing. I wanted to root for the murderer.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Promise Me by Harlan Coban
Rating: 4 Stars
Harlon Coban never disappoints. This is another fast-paced, convoluted storyline that is riveting.
Kelli Frazier (kellifrazier@cox-internet.com)
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great book by Picoult. It was hard to put down. Though not my favorite book by her, it's still worth reading ... especially if you're a Jodi fan!
Mary Schreiner
Blues in the Night by Rochelle Kirch
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a great crime fiction. I loved the character, Molly Blume. I went immediately to this author's website and found that this is the first in a series, and now I can't wait to get the next.
Sandra F.
Dead as a Doornail by Charlaine Harris
Rating: 5 Stars
I adore this series of books and look forward to each new one. Although vampires and other supernatural creatures may not be your cup of tea, Sookie Stackhouse and her friends are a delight to read about. This series is a winner!
Sandra F.
Parsley, Sage, Rosemary & Crime by Tamar Myers
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a mystery containing great comic characters and great Amish receipes. It made me laugh and made me hungry at the same time. Everyone should read this series.
Mary Schreiner
The 5th Horseman by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
Rating: 5 Stars
This was another great book in James Patterson's women's mystery club. I can't wait for the 6th to come out.
Sandra F.
Londonstani by Gautam Malkani
Rating: 3 Stars
LONDONSTANI is a truly unusual novel. At first glance it would appear that the author uses the Asian youth culture of London as a hook to attract readers for yet another ho-hum book. As you read on, however, you become hooked on this tale of culture shock. The plot seems predictable until the twist at the end, which I was totally unprepared for. The characters are types rather than real people that we can feel empathy for, but I think that lends weight to the plot. The author did tend to mount his soap box at certain points such as the rant on "bling bling economics," thereby showing his background. Don't be put off by the first few chapters --- it is worth the effort.
Kimberly
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 5 Stars
If I could only get my eyes to go back and forth faster. I want to devour this book! Hip hooray, Myron Bolitar is back! If you have never read Harlan Coben, do yourself a favor --- start with DEAL BREAKER and work your way to PROMISE ME.
Marjorie Clark
Two Minute Rule by Robert Crais
Rating: 4 Stars
Great book with lots of twists and turns. I read a review of this author's work and had to read this book. It has everything that I expected and I highly recommend it.
Corky Mayo (corkymayo@gmail.com)
Mad Mouse by Chris Grabenstein
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the second installment in the series featuring John Ceepak and Danny Boyle. The mysteries are set in Sea Haven, a New Jersey shore town. The story is funny, satirical, and entertaining, and the sometimes wacky characters are very endearing.
Kimberly
Missing Persons by Stephen White
Rating: 4 Stars
If you like Harlan Coben or Michael Connelly, then try Stephen White. I think I may have another author to add to my list of favorites. Good story, interesting characters, good use of humor, all in all, a good read. I will definitely try another book by him.
Nunu In Niagara
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 4 Stars
This is Lisa Unger's first book and I found it very fast paced, interesting, and hard to put down. It's a story of one young woman's nightmare life after she saves a toddler from death.
Jud Hanson
The Camel Club by David Baldacci
Rating: 5 Stars
This is one of the best books I've read in a while. There's no chance of getting bored with this one, as there is lots of action and even a little romance. I definitely recommend this one to current or new Baldacci fans.
Stella
S is for Silence by Sue Grafton
Rating: 5 Stars
Another winner by this author. She keeps the reader's interest right up to the last page.
M. E. Haney
The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great book by Connelly. THE LINCOLN LAWYER deals with the life of a defense lawyer and the criminals he defends with much negotiation and manipulation. He comes face to face with pure evil, but proves to be a righteous person in the end.
BJA
Broken For You by Stephanie Kallos
Rating: 5 Stars
This is one of my all time favorites. It wonderfully weaves together stories about family and relationships. If pressed, I guess I'd put it in the chick-lit category, but it's so beautifully written that you English majors and lit fans should love it, regardless of your gender.
Barbara Bocan
The Bright Forever by Lee Martin
Rating: 5 Stars
In 1972, 9-year-old Katie Mackey goes missing while riding her bike to the library in a small Indiana town. Thirty years later, the town remembers and the cause and effect are revealed.
Cindy Knisely (cynderma@aol.com)
Duke of Scandal by Adele Ashworth
Rating: 5 Stars
It's very well written, and full of suspense, sexual tension and word play. A real page turner.
Kayce Crews
Killer Instinct by Joseph Finder
Rating: 5 Stars
This is probably not contest material, but I just read your review of Joseph Finder's new book, and I'm sure I will enjoy it just as much as I did PARANOIA and COMPANY MAN. He is definitely a 5-star author.
Heather Murdock (h_owens99@hotmail.com)
Light on Snow by Anita Shreve
Rating: 3 Stars
This book is about a daughter and father who encounter a stranger that changes their lives together.
Heather Murdock (h_owens99@hotmail.com)
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is amazing and allows for an excellent discussion among book clubs.
Cheryl Snyder
Pattern Recognition by William Gibson
Rating: 3 Stars
The book was OK, not great. Is a techno-thriller that falls flat on its face in the end.
Cindy Knisely (cynderma@aol.com)
Marriage Most Scandalous by Johanna Lindsey
Rating: 4 Stars
This is witty, has sensual sizzle, a touch of danger, and makes a great page-turner. It's a wonderful, sexy, historical romance with clever twists.
Kellie Smith (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova
Rating: 3 Stars
Phew, this was a long one. In my personal opinion, it was way too long. I'm not sure why an editor would want a book like this to be as long as it is. I think I would have liked it better if it was shorter. The discriptions of the various countries, their cultures and geography was interesting, and the story is very intriguing. It just seemed to drag in various places through out the book. But, I think people will enjoy it if they have the endurance for it.
Kathy Kasten (kkasten911@yahoo.com)
The Queen's Fool by Phillippa Gregory
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a historical fiction novel told from the point of view of a young Jewess who observes the conflict between Catholic Queen Mary (daughter of Katherine of Aragon) and Reformist Elizabeth (daughter of Anne Boleyn) during the time of the Inquisition. Very good.
Kathy Kasten (kkasten911@yahoo.com)
Tycoon by Harold Robbins
Rating: 1 Stars
Probably the trashiest book I have ever read. It had a weak plot with really scuzzy characters. This is smut trying to pass itself off as a novel.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Atlantis Found by Clive Cussler
Rating: 4 Stars
One of Cussler's earlier endeavors. Worth reading.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
The Twelfth Card by Jeffery Deaver
Rating: 5 Stars
Linclon Rhyme and his close friend, a police officer, protect a Harlem student who someone is trying to kill.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
The Sugar Camp Quilt by Jennifer Chiaverini
Rating: 5 Stars
This author again weaves a wonderful story around the history of an old quilt.
Amy S.
The 5th Horseman by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great book by James Patterson. The beginning starts slow, so that is why I only gave it 4 stars. I can't wait for No. 6!
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella
Rating: 4 Stars
All in all, this was a very good book, but the main character, Rebecca, was enough to drive a person bonkers --- she was so infuriating. LOL. That said, I'm getting ready to start reading book 2. ;)
Kay Hering
River Jordan by Augusta Trobaugh
Rating: 4 Stars
An engaging book about an unlikely group of Southern women, written in an authentic dialect that you can almost hear. The book is brief, which to me is a sign of good, succinct writing!
L. Hann
Yeah, I Said It by Wanda Sykes
Rating: 5 Stars
Hilarious!!!! I was laughing the whole time. The funny thing is that so much of it is true. It is really a great way to relax and have a good laugh. I finished the book in one day. If you need a good laugh, get this book!
Amy S
1st to Die by James Patterson
Rating: 5 Stars
A great book is one you can't put down, and this is a great book. Set aside some time before starting this read.
Bridget
Summer Crossing by Truman Capote
Rating: 3 Stars
An interesting short novel from Capote's early days.
Michele Lauer-Bader
The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant
Rating: 5 Stars
I don't know what is better: the plot, the setting, or the characters. This book is a winner!
L. Hann
Body Double by Tess Gerritsen
Rating: 5 Stars
Excellent. I have read almost all of her books and just love them. She is right up there with Patricia Cornwell. They are both amazing authors. Anyway, Dr. Maura Isles is stunned when she returns from a relaxing trip to Paris. She returns home only to find a crime scene in front of her house. Why is everyone shocked to see her as if they have seen a ghost? Why won't they let her near the crime scene? Read this book and find out. It is really really good.
Heather Gill
Dying Light by Stuart MacBride
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a mystery and suspense novel and I enjoyed it very much. I also read Stuart's first novel, COLD GRANITE, and enjoyed it as well! The storyline is on English police, the bad guy they are trying to catch, and their own family's problems and trials of every day life!
Sharon Johnson
Fledgling by Octavia E. Butler
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is speculative fiction at its finest. Shori, an amnesiac Ina child, struggles to reunite with her remaining family and to bond with and protect the symbionts needed to provide sustenance for the Ina. Unfortunately, this book is the last one written by a very gifted author whose voice will be sorely missed.
Kristina (Luckistarr4@msn.com)
Charmed & Dangerous by Candace Havens
Rating: 5 Stars
Fans of the TV Series "Charmed" will LOVE this book. It's about a witch who has "clients" that she protects. It's a perfect summer read!
Jen
A Necessary Evil by Alex Kava
Rating: 5 Stars
A page-turner mystery novel.
Jen
Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King
Rating: 4 Stars
A good story and a nice read. It didn't "grab" me as much as a 5-star book, but it is an enjoyable read.
Jacki Robertson
Point Blank by Catherine Coulter
Rating: 4 Stars
I have loved all of her books in the FBI series. Enough details and intrigue but still an easy read.
Barbara G (geobarb@sccoast.net)
Cage of Stars by Jacquelyn Mitchard
Rating: 5 Stars
As always, her books are easy to read. The characters in this book are very real and believeable.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
Dispatches From the Edge by Anderson Cooper
Rating: 4 Stars
This CNN reporter offers insights from war zones and disaster-ravaged regions. Very interesting.
Carol Kropf (CarolKropf@aol.com)
The Girls Who Went Away by Ann Fessler
Rating: 5 Stars
THE GIRLS WHO WENT AWAY: THE HIDDEN HISTORY OF WOMEN WHO SURRENDERED THEIR CHILDREN FOR ADOPTION IN THE DECADES BEFORE ROE V. WADE is the best book I have read about social conditions regarding unwed mothers in the 50's and 60's. Anyone who was given up for adoption in that time period should read it for better insight into what their mothers went through and why adoption was the best choice at the time.
Pat Hoel
The Old Wine Shades by Martha Grimes
Rating: 3 Stars
This avid Richard Jury fan is disappointed in the latest from Grimes. One expects certain things but does not get them herein. It's just not up to her usual great characterizations nor storytelling. Sad...
Dave Dornbush (dave_dornbush@yahoo.com)
Slammerkin by Emma Donoghue
Rating: 4 Stars
I was hooked from the very first page and hated to put the book down. This is historical fiction at its absolute best! A friend kept recommending Emma Donoghue to me and I'm so glad I finally read one of her books. I look forward to reading more.
Coral Harrison
Founding Mothers by Cokie Roberts
Rating: 1 Stars
This is a book about the women who were behind the men who started our country. Cokie did a really good job telling their story. We had this book at our last Book Club and it was a very interesting discussion.
Coral Harrison
Mad River Road by Joy Fielding
Rating: 3 Stars
This is a book about women who are or have been abused. It is quite a story that shows how easily some women are fooled.
Bonnie Szul
Vanished by Karen Robards
Rating: 5 Stars
This book jumped out at you right from the first page. I liked how Ms. Robards brought us suspense from the beginning, jumping from one problem to another without confusing anyone. She's a wonderful writer. 5 stars all the way.
Jennie
Saturday by Ian McEwan
Rating: 4 Stars
A great character study. I love his writing style. The book's a bit slow, but has a surprising event towards the latter part of the book!
Darlene Mour
One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus
Rating: 5 Stars
We chose this book for our Bookclub. Women are chosen to co-habit with the Cheyenne Indians to assimilate them to the white man's culture. The book has a cast of characters you will never forget, including May Dodd. This is a winner!!!
Lea
Sullivan's Evidence by Nancy Taylor Rosenberg
Rating: 4 Stars
Carolyn is back as the probation officer who also solves crimes. Her life has become chaotic as she deals with a child taking drugs, college tuition and a new man in her life who is rich but mysterious. A lot of twists in the plot will keep you reading, but you may get bogged down with all the characters.
CC (breezywriter@aol.com)
The Fallen by T. Jefferson Parker
Rating: 5 Stars
I'm a big fan of Jeff Parker and he doesn't disappoint with his latest mystery. He has a great new character that I hope we'll see again in future books. It's a good mystery and very topical, reflecting recent news items. Great read.
Heather Gill
Without Consent by Kathryn Fox
Rating: 5 Stars
I found this novel to be very interesting about how the Forensics at the FBI or police stations work, and what they do to try and catch a killer and get evidence on them to go to trial and hopefully get a conviction. The storyline was suspenceful and had plenty of mystery! A very good read!
Marsha
The Fallen by T. Jefferson Parker
Rating: 4 Stars
This eloquent novel is one of Parker's best. The hero is a detective recovering from a fall that left him with the odd condition called synethesia --- he sees colors when people speak, allowing him to judge their moods and truthfulness. The city of San Diego is fighting for its survival amid corruption and murder.
LaDonna Carrington
The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kid
Rating: 5 Stars
THE MERMAID CHAIR is very entertaining.
CN
Goodnight Nobody by Jennifer Weiner
Rating: 3 Stars
This is not as good as her other previous books but she has a fun, chatty writing style.
Sally B., San Antonio TX
Transmission by Hari Kunzru
Rating: 2 Stars
I listened to the abridged audiobook read by the author.
A young man from India, who's an expert in computer viruses, travels to America to seek his fortune. He is laied off from his job, so to seek revenge and get his job back, he lets loose a virus that he created. The aftermath has worldwide implications and affects numerous people personally.
There was a lack of character building (due to abridgement?).
Margaret Ball
Devil's Orchestra by Sydney Molare
Rating: 5 Stars
The story is centered around 3 characters --- Deva the rock star, Tab the Christan radio host (and racist, I might add), and Juan the gay writer. The one thing that they have in common is that they all received invites for an evening at an out of the way bar called The Shoat's Head Bar.
All three got their invites from people whom they had known in the past. Each star is outraged when these people, whom they thought they were on good terms with, began pointing out their character flaws. So the try to leave The Shoats Head and they are stopped by the appearance of Luke, who reminds them that they have made deals with him.
Without telling you the whole story, guess who Luke is and be careful of what you say without thinking because you might be making a pact that you don't want to.
Jacki Sanders (j20sanders@yahoo.com)
I Love Bad Boys by Lori Foster, Janelle Denison, Donna Kauffman
Rating: 4 Stars
Love it!!
Marlie Warren (justme@xmission.com)
Me & Emma by Elizabeth Flock
Rating: 5 Stars
A great read, even the second time around! My book club decided to read this book and even though I've read it before, I didn't complain or hesitate! It's THAT GOOD!
Honest, fresh, and to the point! I love the twist at the end!
Marlie Warren (justme@xmission.com)
Show Me The Way by Jennifer Lauck
Rating: 5 Stars
I love the author's honesty and freshness in this memoir in stories. This is Jennifer Lauck's third novel and it's just as superb as the last two! I would always read this author and would highly recommend anyone who's interested in memoirs, to do the same!
Madeline
The Jury Master by Robert Dugoni
Rating: 5 Stars
An intriguing thrill ride that has it all, including memorable characters who are carried along on a plot that does not stop. Detetctive "Mole" Molia is a character I would love to meet again!
Carol Hirsh
The Doctor's Daughter by Hilma Wolitzer
Rating: 4 Stars
A beautifully written, beautifully told story about a woman remembering how her life really was.
Jeanne Sheats (catslady5@aol.com)
Brave New World by A. Huxley
Rating: 4 Stars
A futuristic classic that is worth the read. I don't think he got the future quite right, but who knows, lol.
J. P. Feingold
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
A well-written book (though I did find one split infinitive so far). Brown uses language well.
Olga Purgavie
The Innocent by Harlan Coben
Rating: 5 Stars
This book starts off with parts of the story and you cannot imagine how they will all come together, but they do. The story grabs you right away and holds you, trying to piece it together. The ending is definitely not predictable, and there's lots of suspense along the way.
Lea
Beach Road by James Patterson and Peter de Jonge
Rating: 5 Stars
WOW! A must-read book with a twist at the end that leaves the reader stunned and saying, "I just can't believe it." You have to read this book if you don't read anything else. You will either love the ending or hate it, but you won't regret taking the time to read it.
Donna
A Unique Bunny by D'Maria Scaglione
Rating: 5 Stars
This children's book takes a disabled bunny named Beautiful Dreamer on a quest to rise above her circumstances. A wonderful book. It has 5 stars at www.amazon.com,
(PS. Plus, her new book came out recently: NEVAEH AND NATAS: A SPIRITUAL FANTASY)
CN
Missing Persons by Stephen White
Rating: 4 Stars
This book has an interesting plot, and a fun setting of Boulder, Colorado.
Donna
Nevaeh and Natas: A Spiritual Fantasy by D'Maria Scaglione
Rating: 5 Stars
Beautiful cover. Excellent story of an Angel that comes to Earth as a mortal and is born with Ocular Albinism. This angel has been unknowingly sent to deal with the son of Satan (and save the world) --- can she save the world? Can she find her way back home?
Noreen
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Rating: 5 Stars
Everyone loved this book and it was great for a discussion. It was listed in everyone's top ten list.
Debbie Maskus (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Kill The Messenger by Tami Hoag
Rating: 5 Stars
This is my first Hoag novel, and it was very compelling. I had thought LA was the beautiful-people city, but this provides a different view. KILL THE MESSENGER is a long book, but worth every page.
Jacki Sanders (j20sanders@yahoo.com)
Desire After Dark by Amanda Ashley
Rating: 3 Stars
I just started reading --- very suspensful!!
Jodi
Tell Them I Didn't Cry by Jackie Spinner
Rating: 4 Stars
The is a young journalist's account of her time in Iraq, writing for the Washington Post.
Toni Savchuck (tonisandlin@aol.com)
A Home For Mr. Biswas by V. S. Naipaul
Rating: 5 Stars
A great book by a winner of the Nobel Prize for Literature.
Debra Guyette (Debby236@aol.com)
Dirty Blonde by Lisa Scottoline
Rating: 5 Stars
DIRTY BLONDE is a very exciting and intense novel involving love, sex, and murder, with some Hollywood shinanigans thrown in. Keeping your interest from beginning to end, DIRTY BLONDE is fantastic.
Melissa (melissaherlevic@yahoo.com)
East of Eden by John Steinbeck
Rating: 5 Stars
I read this book twenty years ago in high school and it's interesting to see how different and new the story seems to me today.
K. Gold
Ender's Shadow by Orson Scott Card
Rating: 5 Stars
I read all the "Ender" books I could find three or four years ago, and now I'm just as into it the second time. These are classics!
Weasel
Accordion Crimes by E. Annie Proulx
Rating: 5 Stars
I wouldn't have believed that she could have surpassed THE SHIPPING NEWS. This book follows an accordion and its various owners through history. I have 64 more pages to read until I finish, and I'm stalling. It is so good, I don't want it to end.
Mary Heare (flugginfloggin@yahoo.com)
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
Rating: 5 Stars
I love mystery/intrigue fiction and this book has it all and more.
Susan Jensen
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 4 Stars
Although I agree that this is not Picoult's best novel, I still found it intriguing and managed to read it in one day. The story focuses on Trixie Stone, a 14-year-old girl, who is raped by her boyfriend at a high school party. As everyone (including Trixie herself) tries to piece together the hazy events of that night, Trixie finds herself and her family torn wide open. In her desperate search for herself, Trixie turns to cutting herself, then running away --- only to find her situation worsening in horrible ways.
Although the book is pretty stark, it's well written and completely engrossing. If you haven't read Picoult, you have to --- she's a master.
Helene Simpson
Mary, Mary by James Patterson and Peter de Jonge
Rating: 5 Stars
One of James Patterson`s best books. The ending was not what I had expected.
Ginnie
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 3 Stars
A good story. What we have come to expect from Picoult --- angst in a family. This story can be very upsetting at times.
Sandra Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com)
The Secret Memoirs of Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis by Ruth Francisco
Rating: 5 Stars
An interesting read!
White
Devoted Sisters by Alison Buck
Rating: 5 Stars
I was told about this book by my best (female) friend. She assured me it isn't just aimed at female readers, so I thought I'd give it a go. Although it seems from the synopsis that it might be a fairly slow and drawn out story --- like the main characters who are two elderly sisters --- it moves along faster than I expected. The subtelty of the writer's characterization means that even though I have nothing in common with either sister --- being male and not quite elderly ;-) --- I was soon engrossed and drawn into their world and their minds. It was easy to read, yet thought provoking. My only criticism is that I couldn't put it down and so I read it through in one sitting. Now there's nothing more to look forward to! This is Alison Buck's first novel, I hope she soon writes some more.
Rhoda MacMaster (Tiggi47@aol.com)
Two Little Girls In Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
Mary Higgins Clark does it again, this is another mystery that keeps you reading. Twin girls are kidnapped and only one is returned. The connection between the twins keeps the mother knowing that her missing daughter is alive. Great book.
Joanne
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
Very intense. I stayed right with it. The story is real enough to be every parent's nightmare.
Rosalie Sambuco
Cloud Mountain by Aimee E. Liu
Rating: 4 Stars
4 stars plus 3/4 of another star. This is the story of the author's grandparents. An American woman marries a Chinese man --- they met in San Francisco in 1906, and the earthquake brings them closer together. The book chronicles their life first in America, then in China. It gives a very good view of life for women in China, while also addressing racial issues, since the family was interracial and considered "mongrels." It was very interesting, sad in parts, and very much like life really is.
Ginnie
Savannah Breeze by Mary Kay Andrews
Rating: 2 Stars
A fun beach book. Not much thinking is required.
Joanne
The Cat Who Talked Turkey by Lillian Jackson Braun
Rating: 4 Stars
Number 27 in a series, and there are two more. Ms. Braun makes you feel that you know these characters. Perhaps they are your neighbors, or you might wish you could move north of everywhare and have neighbors like these.
Dodalodle from Beautiful British Columbia (dglg@telus.net)
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a great suspense story about a young woman who has to suddenly question everything she knows about herself and her family. Her bravery and good deed unleashes a chain of events that forever changes the life she knows. This is a first novel for this author and I eagerly look forward to her next book.
Sandra Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com)
The Butterfly Garden by Annette Blair
Rating: 5 Stars
Excellent book!
Sandra Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com)
The Sunroom by Beverly Lewis
Rating: 5 Stars
Another older book that is just as good as her others.
Sandra Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com)
The Postcard by Beverly Lewis
Rating: 5 Stars
This is an older book and such fun reading about the Amish people and their lifestyle. I truly enjoyed it!
Jane (janebeatty92083@yahoo.com)
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 5 Stars
The best nail biter I have ever read. It is very suspenseful and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
Auntie P (readersville@yahoo.com)
Most Wanted by Michele Martinez
Rating: 4 Stars
Great read for a debut mystery. It was fast moving and I'm looking forward to more books from M. Martinez
Dale A. Wellman
Genetopia by Keith Brooke
Rating: 4 Stars
A good Sci-fi read with an interesting future world. The storyline is unfolded by the different characters as they interact with each other.
Susan
In My Brother's Image by Eugene Pogany
Rating: 4 Stars
Our group really enjoyed reading this book. We learned a lot about Hungary and the religious tensions from 1919 - 1945. This book is about the story of twin brothers --- one is Jewish and the other is a priest --- and the conflicts they encounter.
M. Blitz
Blue Shoes and Happiness by Alexander McCall Smith
Rating: 4 Stars
A nice continuation of the No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency. It's an easy and enjoyable read. You can actually start the series anywhere, but it's more enjoyable to read the series from the beginning, so you can see the characters grow and change.
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris
Rating: 5 Stars
I don't think I've laughed so hard at a book in a looong time! This was the first book I've read by David Sedaris, but I am promoting him to my favorites list. In other words, I'll be reading everything else of his that I can get my hands on.
My favorite two essays in this book were BIG BOY and I'LL EAT WHAT
HE'S WEARING. Very very funny indeed!
A definite 5 out of 5 stars for this one. You've got to read it!
M. Blitz
Oakdale Confidential by Anymonous
Rating: 4 Stars
It is really great to read a book in which you already can picture the characters, because they come from your favorite soap opera. The mystery of who killed the rich socialite is great. Can't wait to finish it.
Judy (joswood@msn.com)
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 4 Stars
Ridley Jones has a pretty ordinary life until one fateful day, when she performs a heroic act that results in her picture being plastered all over the news. A few days later, she gets an anonymous note saying, "Are you my daughter?" These words, plus an accompanying picture, take her life on a whirlwind of activity and danger, where she tries to find out the truth behind the "beautiful lies" that she's been told all her life. This is a great read, and I'll look forward to other books by this new writer.
M. Blitz
Eldest by Christopher Paolini
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the 2nd book in the series by Paolini, and it is so hard to believe that it was written by an 18 year old. This book is as good and as exciting as Tolkien. It is a great read for advanced youth readers as it is for adults. A summer must read for lovers of fantasy.
Allan Fredericks (afredericks1@msn.com)
Beach Road by James Patterson and Peter de Jonge
Rating: 5 Stars
If I could give this book 10 stars, I would. This is probably his best novel yet. It is a true page turner. You will not even come close to guessing who the bad person is until the very end. It is well thought out and will leave you thirsting for more.
Kathy Kasten (kkasten911@yahoo.com)
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory
Rating: 5 Stars
Excellent historical novel about Mary and Anne Boleyn, both mistresses of Henry VIII.
Judy (jhendrix48@hotmail.com)
The Lost German Slave Girl by John Bailey
Rating: 4 Stars
John Bailey did a wonderful job researching and writing this powerful book. This story is about a young woman and her quest for freedom in the 1840's. Much of the text is taken from court documents, but Bailey makes the reading smooth and enjoyable.
Debbie Liaci (tornic2@aol.com)
The Next Accident by Lisa Gardner
Rating: 5 Stars
This book will get your attention as soon as you start the book. I am more than halfway done and I do not know who the bad guy is. To me, I think that means the book is very good.
Rachael
Sophie Metropolis by Tori Carrington
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this book! If you are a fan of Evanovich, you will love it! Highly recommended!
Book Lover
How To Set His Thighs on Fire by Kate White
Rating: 4 Stars
Cute book, but a bit egotistical.
Rachael
Three to Get Deadly by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this author. Great book.
Carol N
The Problem with Murmur Lee by Connie May Fowler
Rating: 5 Stars
Reading this book was a terrific experience! If one is lucky in life to meet a Murmur Lee...you are blessed. Reading Connie Fowler's words are like sailing along Iris Haven's lazy river with so many images floating through your mind. I'm really going to miss these characters, especially Murmur --- the free-spirited woman who enjoys life with her circle of eccentric friends on a coastal island off Florida. Not only was she a survivor, lover, and nurturer to all, but a friend of the highest order. . . we should all aspire to imitate the depth of her soul.
Fowler's writing is not only lyrical, soul stirring, and beautiful, but so emotion-filled. She is truly a word magician and I thank for writing this book. Her words glimmer on the page and fill my heart with wonder and awe at the miracle of life and living.
Sandra F.
The Cat Who Smelled A Rat by Lilian Jackson Braun
Rating: 3 Stars
Another "Cat Who..." book in a long series. I think that it is time that this series ended.
Sandra F.
Death Minus Zero by John Baker
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great series by a Brit. John Baker's series about detective Sam Turner is like no other. Well worth the read.
Bonnie
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
Rating: 4 Stars
Lovely, thoughtful, beautifully written novel by the ever-wonderful Tyler.
Bonnie
The Year of Yes by Maria Dahvana Headley
Rating: 3 Stars
Entertaining fluff --- not that there's anything wrong with that!
Katrina (storiesandcookies@yahoo.com)
The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd
Rating: 5 Stars
Kidd's second novel draws readers in and keeps us with her throughout. Like THE SECRET LIFE OF BEES, THE MERMAID CHAIR deals with issues many in polite society try, unsuccessfully, to ignore. Kidd tells a believable, entrancing story that leaves the reader looking for how things will end. Sad, funny, always riveting.
Carolyn
The Conjurer's Bird by Martin Davies
Rating: 4 Stars
Davies weaves historical data about Joseph Banks, a wealthy explorer who sailed with Capt. Cook in the 1760s, into a fascinating story about a modern-day naturalist trying to find evidence of an extinct bird and valuable paintings before unscrupulous dealers can profit from the discovery.
Bonnie
The Polysyllabic Spree by Nick Hornby
Rating: 4 Stars
A wonderful book about books (and lots more) for book-lovers.
Mo (maestraw@msn.com)
The Girls' Guide to Hunting and Fishing by Melissa Bank
Rating: 4 Stars
I know this is an old one, but I found it at a garage sale for .25. Boy did I get my money's worth. I thoroughly enjoyed Jane's struggle with "hunting and fishing." Add this to your "must read" pile!
Sandy (Yodasmommy@woh.rr.com)
Shiver by Lisa Jackson
Rating: 5 Stars
I don't think I have ever read one of her books before, but I am going to read all of them now! SHIVER makes you want to stay up all night to find out who in the world is doing all these murders and why.
Karen F.
Honeymoon with My Brother by Franz Wisner
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a funny but touching story of two brothers reconnecting as they travel the globe. Although I have not quite finished it, I find it a "hard to put down" book.
Kate Sender
Forever Odd by Dean Koontz
Rating: 4 Stars
The author continues the saga of Odd Thomas as he searches for a missing friend with help from his friends, living and not. This sequel started a bit slowly, but once past the meandering beginning, I was drawn into Odd's life and trials. I definitely recommend reading ODD THOMAS first, as there are numerous references to characters introduced in the first book. Actually 4.5 stars^_^
Mary Schreiner
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
Rating: 5 Stars
I never saw the movie and had never read this book before. Once I started I could not put it down. It was one of the best true crime stories I have ever read.
Dana Cher
Walking the Perfect Square by Reed Farrell Coleman
Rating: 5 Stars
Great start to a series. The third in this series just won an Edgar or Gumshoe Award... I've forgotten which one. I read the first in the series and I'm glad I did. Excellent mystery --- I'll definitely be reading the next two.
Rosemary Rickett
My Life in France by Julia Child and Alex Prud' Homme
Rating: 4 Stars
The only thing I knew about Julia Child was that she went to Cordon Bleu and was a PBS cooking queen. What a delightful story about her life with her husband, her time abroad, her initiation to French cooking, and her thirst for culinary knowledge and mastery. This book will make you want to run and purchase her cookbooks and also wish you had such a wonderful relationship with your husband/boyfriend. What a delightful read about a woman who changed America's view on French cooking and who also made you feel you're just as capable. Even if you didn't like Julia, you'd enjoy the read.
Nina Stafford
Circle of Grace by Penelope J. Stokes
Rating: 5 Stars
This tells the story of 4 women who have been friends since college. At graduation they decide to pass around a journal so they will be able to keep up with one another. Grace finds that she is dying and realizes she must bring all her fiends together --- because what she wrote in the journal entries wasn't the truth and she wants to make it right. Very interesting turn of events.
Pat from Sugar Land
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
Rating: 3 Stars
I so wanted to like this book more than I really did. I thought it was such fluff; although it was enjoyable, I felt it was a bit of a waste of time.
However, I still think Anne Tyler is a good author and I will always read her books.
Heidi Kraemer
The Birth House by Ami McKay
Rating: 5 Stars
I was mesmerized by this book from the beginning to the end. I just couldn't put it down!
Donna L.
Harry Potter And The Half-Blood Prince by J. K. Rowling
Rating: 5 Stars
This book in the Harry Potter series is just as wonderful as the first. I love them all. I have been hooked from the beginning and can't wait for the next one.
Donna L.
Tomb Of The Golden Bird by Elizabeth Peters
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is another thrilling escapade in Egypt on the brink of one of the greatest archaeological finds yet --- the tomb of King Tut. This is another fantastic book in the Amelia Peabody Mystery series.
Donna L.
Walking The Bible by Bruce Feiler
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a very inspiring adventure led by Bruce on a 10,000 mile journey retracing the Five Books of Moses through the desert. It is a spiritual quest through the desert where the world's great religions were born.
Donna L.
The Great Transformation by Karen Armstrong
Rating: 4 Stars
Karen speaks of the people of four distinct regions of the civilized world in the ninth century BCE, who created the religious and philosophical traditions that have and still fulfill humanity to this day. She challenges the reader to consider how these spiritualities challenge our religious ways of current day.
Julie Towson
Bleachers by John Grisham
Rating: 4 Stars
A really quick read. This book is about the high school quarterback and all-around popular guy who comes back to his small hometown in the South to bury his coach. As all the team arrives for the funeral, they all go to the football field for nostalgia's sake and sit in the bleachers. It is here that they all relive their lives, glories and try to decided once and for all if they loved this coach they are here to bury, or if they all truly hated him.
Julie Towson
Cane River by Lalita Tademy
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a sweeping saga that takes place on a plantation in Louisiana. It is about four women whose lives begin in slavery during the Civil War and try to adjust to emancipation and the turbulent years of the early twentieth century. This was an Oprah book club selection. It was wonderful and really gives you a sense of the history at this time in America.
Julie Towson
My Losing Season by Pat Conroy
Rating: 5 Stars
This is an autobiographical novel about the author's college years at the Citadel. It is an extraordinary memoir of his coming of age and his relationship with his father made famous in THE GREAT SANTINI.. Totally engrossing.
Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net)
The Visitation by Frank Peretti
Rating: 5 Stars
The small town of Antioch, WA is experiencing some strange happenings. A wooden crucifix in the Catholic Church is suddenly weeping tears that heal. People are seeing Jesus in the clouds, in the bushes, and even in the mildew on the walls of a shower. A stranger in town, who looks like the typical modern-day rendition of Jesus, is appearing at times and healing various maladies. What is former pastor Travis Jordan's thoughts on this, given his skeptical and somewhat cynical attitude? This is an excellent book by a gifted author.
T. Thomas
The Colonel and Little Missie by Larry McMurtry
Rating: 4 Stars
An interesting read about how Buffalo Bill Cody turned himself and Annie Oakley into "stars."
Kimberley S
The Italian Secretary by Caleb Carr
Rating: 4 Stars
I like the way this author writes. His words captivate me and I get hooked on what I am reading. This is an excellent read for any Sherlock Holmes fan, and anyone who likes a good mystery.
Bev (bev208@bellsouth.net)
Map of Bones by James Rollins
Rating: 5 Stars
His books always keep you on the edge of your chair. They take you to different corners of the world and he does do a lot of background work to make his books so believable. I have read all of his books.
Debra Guyette (Debby236@aol.com)
Broken by Kelley Armstrong
Rating: 5 Stars
This is Armstrong's third book about Elena and Clay. These are two great characters. Read these and you will love them.
Christy
Dirty Laundry by Tori Carrington
Rating: 4 Stars
As great as the first book!
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
Drama City by George Pelecanos
Rating: 4 Stars
I have read all of the Derek Strange series by Pelecanos and loved them. This was off series. It was pretty good, but I thought it was a little weak at the end. I was a bit surprised this was nominated for the Edgar Award, but it was still an enjoyable read.
Jodi
Tell Them I Didn't Cry by Jackie Spinner
Rating: 4 Stars
The inside story of Iraq told from a young American reporter who went to Iraq for the Washington Post. It follows her for the 9 months she spent in Iraq as a rookie journalist. It was very touching and provided a great look into the situations that we don't hear about everyday.
Carol from Cleveland
The Bonesetter's Daughter by Amy Tan
Rating: 5 Stars
A woman learns about her mother's history in China through a life story that her mother writes for her shortly before being stricken with Alzheimer's. Very affecting and very good.
Toni S (tonisandlin@aol.com)
House Of Many Gods by Kiana Davenport
Rating: 5 Stars
A poor Hawaiian girl is the first in her family to complete college and becomes a doctor. This book takes her through her marriage to a troubled Russian Filmmaker and shows how she keeps her two worlds together. This is one of the best books I've ever read. From the author of THE SHARK DIALOGUES.
Liz Marsden (marsipan49@sbcglobal.net)
A Traitor to Memory by Elizabeth George
Rating: 4 Stars
Complicated change of narrators, but I love George's works. Inspector Lynley is the best and partners well with Barbara Havers --- gender, education and class differences always featured.
Dusty Johnson (bjohnson-att@comcast.net)
Unlucky In Law by Perri O'Shaughnessy
Rating: 4 Stars
The O'Shaughnessy sisters' books are great for those of us who love legal mysteries. Once again, Nina Reilly's confused life intermingles with an intriguing courtroom drama. Great read.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
Absurdistan by Gary Shteyngart
Rating: 4 Stars
This roller coaster of a book takes main character Misha through Civil War, government office, physical danger, and a love affair.
LC
Isabel's Daughter by Judith Ryan Hendrickson
Rating: 4 Stars
A young woman, abandoned as an infant, finds her mother by accident. The story of her life growing up in an orphanage and on her own is at times sad, heartwarming and totally satisfying to read.
Toni S (tonisandlin@aol.com)
The Night Journal by Elizabeth Crook
Rating: 5 Stars
A young woman raised by her grandmother resists reading the published journals of her famous great grandmother. When she finally does, she finds a mystery that needs to be solved. Suspenseful, touching and very readable, I couldn't put it down!
Liz Marsden (marsipan49@sbcglobal.net)
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
Having read THE DA VINCI CODE last year, I just had to catch up with the first Robert Langdon thriller. I noticed he repeats himself in some pages as though he didn't catch that he used a phrase or cliche a few lines earlier.
Renee (tfranzen2124@comcast.net)
Dead Air by Kerri Miller
Rating: 3 Stars
A good murder mystery by a local public radio personality. Good read.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
The Rug Merchant by Meg Mullins
Rating: 3 Stars
An Iranian rug merchant, who has long awaited a reunion with his wife still in Iran, embarks on a new relationship with a young Barnard College student from the South.
Bob Hartzo (jesus4u@netscape.com)
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
If you love a good thiller mystery, this is the author to read. Its a can't-put-down book.
Peggy Kincaid (Cali_LB@msn.com)
Edge of Battle by Dale Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
A very timely book since it deals with the immigration problem, but also uses Mr. Brown's deep knowledge of the military and its hardware. If you haven't read Dale Brown before, by all means, pick up any of his books. He is a younger Tom Clancy and uses a bit less techno-babble, but there is always a glossary to explain weapons and such. He is also always right on target with what is happening in the world, politically and militarily.
Carol from Cleveland
Friends, Lovers, Chocolate by Alexander McCall Smith
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the second book in the "Sunday Philosophy Club" series, and I like it very much. In this one, the main character tries to help a man who has had a heart transplant, and thinks he sees things that were seen by the heart donor.
Carol from Cleveland
Saving Fish From Drowning by Amy Tan
Rating: 3 Stars
I'm about 2/3 through this one, and it's interesting, but not on the level of THE BONESETTER'S DAUGHTER, so it's somewhat disappointing. It's about a group of Americans who take a tour to China and Burma that was arranged by a friend who died before she was able to accompany them. But she (the dead friend) accompanies them in her spirit form, and tells the story of their trip.
Toni Raaf
Gone by Lisa Gardner
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved the book! I'm waiting for the next book by Lisa.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
Rating: 5 Stars
This beautifully written novel explores an immigrant's feelings of "outsideness" in America, even after three decades. Two families, one quintessentially American, the other Iranian-American, meet at the airport while awaiting the arrival of their adopted daughters from Korea. The novel then follows the two couples and their extended families, as they share in the girls' early years and especially as they develop relationships across family lines.
Heather Gill
Burned by Mark Billingham
Rating: 4 Stars
A very nail-bitting novel that had me holding my breath as to what was going to happen next, and who the killer's next target would be! I have really enjoyed all Mark's novels as he can get into a killer's mind and he writes with gruesome flair!
Ozark Anne
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 4 Stars
I couldn't get too frantic in this book since I knew, as in most of Mary Higgins Clark's books, that it all comes out alright. It was a real stretch to learn the fate of both twins (I won't tell as that would ruin it for the reader). Anyway, it's a quick read, and makes for good beach reading.
Peggy Kincaid (Cali_LB@msn.com)
The Jury Master by Robert Dugoni
Rating: 5 Stars
I thought this was an outstanding tale of mystery, thrills, and just about everything you'd want --- especially from a new author. I can't wait for the next one and I have BookReporter.com to thank for finding this one.
I recommend this book to anyone who loves authors like Michael Connelly, Jonathan Kellerman and more. There is an unusual twist to this tale that will leave you wanting to see more of the characters in future books.
Tanya (t.evamarie@gmail.com)
Little White Lies by Gemma Townley
Rating: 3 Stars
This is another chick-lit novel. I started reading it and couldn't really get into the novel until I was about halfway through. After that, I was really pulling for the main character.
LITTLE WHITE LIES tells the story of a girl who moves into an apartment where the previous owner was a high socialite. Mail keeps coming for this previous apartment owner and our heroine opens the letter and ends up taking over the life of the previous tenant. It's funny.
Jo-Ann Burton (jenni_the_lionhearted@yahoo.com)
The Last Cato by Matilde Asensi
Rating: 5 Stars
THE LAST CATO is truly a wonderful book. Yes there are elements ala THE DA VINCI CODE and THE LAST TEMPLAR.... It's a combination of biblical mystery, relic hunt, secret societies and deadly traps. Dante's THE DIVINE COMEDY figures prominently throughout the book and is the basis by which the mystery is solved. Three people, a nun with a degree in paleography, a captain of the swiss guard, and a renowned archaeologist team up to unravel this mystery which involve the 7 deadly sins. Along the way we learn about the three adventurers, as well as some life decisions that are made, which will change all three of them.
Annette (Bberrycrk@Aol.com)
House by Ted Dekker and Frank Perretti
Rating: 1 Stars
Please don't bother with this one. It is a mess and not worth your time.
Larena Wirum
Full Speed by Janet Evanovich & Charlotte Hughes
Rating: 5 Stars
It is a great book with a little romance and lots of fun.
Reva Wamsley (prwamsley@adelphia.net)
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown
Rating: 5 Stars
I wanted to read this book before I read THE DA VINCI CODE since they both have the same character. This book takes place mostly in Vatican City & Rome. It's a quest to save Vatican City from an explosion. There is a lot of action and plot twists. It will keep you guessing until the end.
Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net)
Dead Man's Walk by Larry McMurtry
Rating: 5 Stars
This is an excellent book. It is a prequel to LONESOME DOVE, telling the story of young Gus McCrae and Woodrow Call as they enlist to fight a formidable Mexican army. If you haven't read LONESOME DOVE, you might want to read this one first. But don't pass up LONESOME DOVE --- it's a classic by itself.
Heather Gill
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 5 Stars
This novel was a riverting thriller and had plenty of twists and turns! The storyline was very good and well thought out and the novel was one of Harlan's best! I enjoyed every page! and was sorry to finish the book! Now I cannot wait until his next one comes out!!
Denise Wright
Dog by Michelle Herman
Rating: 4 Stars
A sweet little book about a single woman who adopts a dog.
L. Hann
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
Mary Higgins Clark has done it again. From the first sentence I was hooked!!! Not only was this an awesome suspense book, but it also tapped you into the twin world. I was amazed at the communication between them without using words. Very interesting. This is a great suspense story. If you like Mary Higgins Clark, you'll love her new book. Happy Reading.
L. Hann
Vanish by Tess Gerritsen
Rating: 5 Stars
Tess does it again on this one. We find out more about Jane Rizzoli, who is pregnant during this book. Jane finds herself on the wrong side of a hostage crisis. Does she get out? Read this book and find out.
Debbie
The Skin Gods by Richard Montanari
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great suspense thriller. The characters are very believable and the plot never stops. If you liked ROSEMARY GIRLS, you won't be disappointed.
Debbie
Life Sentences by Alice Blanchard
Rating: 5 Stars
This is my first book by this author. I read this book while on vacation in Disney World, and I had to carry it with me becaue I wanted to read every free second I had. Great mystery plus a great story.
LaDonna Carrington
The Camel Club by David Baldacci
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a very interesting and intriguing story.
Lu Jeff
The Space Between Us by Thrity Umrigar
Rating: 4 Stars
Wonderful, interesting and eye-opening.
Jack Quick (jquick5342@aol.com)
Dead of Winter (CSI: New York) by Stuart Kaminsky
Rating: 4 Stars
Detective Mac Taylor and his partner, Detective Stella Bonasera, lead a team of experts through the gritty streets of New York City, piecing together clues and eliminating doubts along the way to solving cases. This time, they have the body of a middle-aged man in the elevator of a ritzy doorman building on the Upper East Side with no motive, no bullets and no DNA. A few blocks away, a witness being held in protective custody is murdered --- although the law enforcement officers on duty swear that the victim spent the night in a locked hotel room, only to be found dead in the morning. Just two more stories of the thousands from the city that never sleeps.
Kathleen Josephson
The Fortune Teller's Daughter by Susan Wilson
Rating: 3 Stars
A woman who has been raised by her on-the-run mother settles down in a small town. Here, she meets a man who is planning to leave as soon as he can get his late grandmothers affairs in order. Throw in a haunted house and some psychic abilities and the conflict makes for a good story with a happily-ever-after ending.
Kathy Kasten (kkasten911@yahoo.com)
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
Very good, compelling novel. Hard to put down.
Diane in Massachusetts
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a wonderful book, but I was reluctant to start this novel due to the subject matter. As have children of my own about the same age as the fourteen year old who is raped at a party, then ridiculed and further victimized by her peers, this storyline stirs up a lot of emotion.
However, the balance that Picoult strikes with the parallel themes of the marriage of the child's parents, and the early life of the child's father as an outcast growing up among an Indian tribe in Alaska, provide relief at just the right moments.
Patricia Schrot
The 5th Horseman by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
Rating: 4 Stars
This book has short chapters and is a quick read about the Women's Murder Club.
Patricia Schrot
Gone by Lisa Gardner
Rating: 4 Stars
Quite a suspenseful story. I didn't realize it was part of a series --- I guess I will have to read the earlier books.
Patricia Schrot
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 3 Stars
I haven't finished it yet. The subject matter is very disturbing and I am glad I no longer have teenagers!
My rating of 3 stars might be unfair, since I haven't finished the book.
Marsha
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Rating: 5 Stars
This masterful, bold novel has EVERYTHING! It is the best storytelling I have encountered in a long, long time. The stories unfold like a Russian doll. Treat yourself. You will not be disappointed.
Chuck Ferges
Double Tap by Steve Martini
Rating: 4 Stars
Always interesting, it builds a platform that leaves room for a change in direction, often a biter bit.
Carol Hirsh
My Latest Grievance by Elinor Lipman
Rating: 5 Stars
Wonderful storytelling about a family, with parents who are well educated hippies, seen through their 16-year-old daughter's eyes.
Anitha Papudesi
Big Stone Gap by Adriana Trigiani
Rating: 4 Stars
Adriana Trigiani introduces us to a small town with wonderful earthy characters. A woman finds love, family and where she belongs. There are two more books written as sequels. They are just as good, but you can never forget when it all started.
Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com)
The House by Danielle Steel
Rating: 5 Stars
Another great Danielle Steel book. It is well written with an interesting twist to the story. Very good.
Linda H (linda604b@yahoo.com)
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 5 Stars
Another novel by Harlan Coben that you can't put down. This involves the two disappearances of teenagers and everyone is trying to link the two cases together.
Kris Papudesi
The Interruption of Everything by Terry McMillan
Rating: 4 Stars
I read the first few pages of this book through dearreader.com and I loved it. It was funny, real and heartfelt. Marilyn describes her world with humor, and there's always a thread of compassion when you are shown each friend and sometimes foe. Enjoy.
Donna Hart
Oakdale Confidential by Anonymous
Rating: 5 Stars
It is a great read and you do not have to watch the soap opera, "As The World Turns," to read the book. It keeps you guessing til the end.
Elizabeth Saurer
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
This is one of the best from Mary Higgins Clark.. if not the best. I couldn't put it down.
Ricki (rickimc@aol.com)
Viking Warrior by Judson Roberts
Rating: 3 Stars
An interesting fiction work about Viking life. This will definitely appeal to young teenage boys.
Vikki (VikkiVand@aol.com)
The Best People in the World by Justin Tussing
Rating: 4 Stars
A high school student falls in love with his teacher, and they run off to Vermont together with a strange friend named Shiloh. I'm not sure I really understood the ending of this unusual story.
Ed Williamson
Prior Bad Acts by Tami Hoag
Rating: 4 Stars
A real nail biter, full of suspense. It truly is one of those books you can't put down!
Douglas Ray Cobb (goofier1@wmconnect.com)
Prior Bad Acts by Tami Hoag
Rating: 5 Stars
PRIOR BAD ACTS by Tami Hoag grabs ahold of the reader with the very first few pages, and, like the proverbial rollercoaster, excites with every twist and turn the plot takes. What better way to draw the reader in than by depicting a grisly multiple murder crime scene that an unfortunate cop, trying to warn a family of an approaching tornado, stumbles upon? Such is the opening of PRIOR BAD ACTS.
A ruling by a judge disallows the entering of the supposed culprit's "prior bad acts," into evidence. This sets the plot into careening overdrive, because the judge first gets beaten up, then she is kidnapped. Detective Sam Kovac has to find out --- amongst many people who are displeased with the judge (including her husband) --- who has kidnapped her and how to rescue her.
The most likely suspect is the person who is on trial for the murders and who has escaped from custody. However, there are many others who have good reasons for beating up the judge and kidnapping her, as well. Complicating the plot still further are Kovac's increasing attraction for the judge, and his dislike of the judge's husband --- who is involved in the kinky world of sexual exploitation and bondage films, is having at least one affair, and has possibly put out a hit on his wife.
The book is very entertaining on several levels. I found it to keep up my interest by "knowing" from the beginning who committed the murders, but then having my preconceived beliefs come into question by the motives of other potential suspects. This is not a traditional "whodunit," but a book in which you're presented with the most likely culprit at the very start of the plot. I generally don't like books like that, but in the case of PRIOR BAD ACTS, where one's preconceived notions are called into quesiton, I found it very appealing, and I would highly recommend Tami Hoag's latest.
Madeline
Cage of Stars by Jacquelyn Mitchard
Rating: 3 Stars
A good read. The characters were interesting --- especially when tragedy strikes and we see how their religious beliefs affect their reactions to it. This is not as good as the author's earlier works, but it's okay overall.
Linda M. Johnson
The Ride of Our Lives by Mike Leonard
Rating: 4 Stars
I have long loved Mr. Leonard's quirky and witty reports on "The Today Show." This book is an excellent follow-up to the pieces about his travels with his octogenarian parents and grown children in 2 rented RVs. I've had many chuckles of recognition relating to family dynamics.
Ed Williamson
Everywhere That Mary Went by Lisa Scottoline
Rating: 3 Stars
I am a big Lisa fan and have read everyone of her books except this one which I think was her first. It is good, but like wine, Lisa's work has improved with age.
Phyllis Gould
Glass Castles by Jeanette Walls
Rating: 4 Stars
An amazing autobiography. In today's society, one wonders if these children would have survived as well. There's no doubt they would all have been in foster homes. Do not let the word "autobiography" turn you away from this read!
Carrie Hisler (tazaroo@mchsi.com)
S is for Silence by Sue Grafton
Rating: 4 Stars
I love the character Kinsey Millhone. I have read all of Sue's books and she has not disappointed me yet.
Steph
Gilgamesh by Joan London
Rating: 4 Stars
A sprawling epic-like tale of a young woman from the Australian outback who travels the world to reconnect with a lost love. It's set during pre -, during, and post World War II.
Steph
The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint by Brady Udall
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a heartwarming story of a young man on a bizarre (at times) journey who thought he was lost and finds redemption.
Steph
Fingersmith by Sarah Waters
Rating: 4 Stars
Historical romance combined with murder/thriller understones. Just a good read.
Joan (jscady@efieldguide.com)
Blood Hunt by Ian Rankin
Rating: 4 Stars
This was not a "Rebus" novel. The hero and his wife were not as well explored as I would have liked, but the plot made up for it. It takes place in the U.S. and Scotland, (I had my atlas out), and was fast paced, intricate and always kept your attention.
J. P. Feingold
The Da Vinci Code by Daniel Brown
Rating: 3 Stars
I am just starting to read this book because I want to know what all the hoopla is about.
Barbara Stamper
True Devotion by Dee Henderson
Rating: 5 Stars
What a thrilling series --- "Uncommon Heroes!" I can't wait to pick up volume 2!
Steph
Man Walks Into A Room by Nicole Krauss
Rating: 5 Stars
Just read it, it's awesome. MAN WALKS INTO A ROOM is about loss of identity, memory, and coming back to life --- though a very different life, as it must be recreated.
David H (DMHank@aol.com)
Mystic and Rider by Sharon Shinn
Rating: 4 Stars
A great take on the fantasy quest genre with a dash of political intrigue and class struggles to add to the mix.
Barbara Stamper
Danger in the Shadows by Dee Henderson
Rating: 5 Stars
Dee Henderson is a new author for me and I am actively seeking additional books of hers I can read. What a find!
Maureen
My Latest Grievance by Elinor Lipman
Rating: 3 Stars
I didn't really enjoy this book that much ---there were parts that were amusing, but it got boring. I actually skimmed the last couple of chapters.
Krishna (lane108*@yahoo.com)
Strip Jack by Ian Rankin
Rating: 3 Stars
The book is part of the Rebus series, but it's a shorter story than what you usually see by him. The action takes place in Scotland and it is a good cozy book.
Ray Palen (razorramon@optonline.net)
The Winter Queen by Boris Akunin
Rating: 4 Stars
The first of Akunin's international best-selling mysteries featuring a late 1800's version of the classic Detective genre. Based in Russia and spanning as far as the UK, this tale is interesting and reads quickly. I don't agree that the hero is the "Russian Sherlock Holmes" --- he clearly marks his own territory as being both young/naive and intuitive at the same time. I'm looking forward to continuing with this series.
Ray Palen (razorramon@optonline.net)
Case Histories by Kate Atkinson
Rating: 5 Stars
This reads like non-fiction. A British P.I. is tasked with 3 different family mysteries that may or may not be interrelated. Each mystery and familial drama is heartfelt and real. The pages just keep turning with this engaging, twisting, complex tale.
Denise Miller (nesey61@aol.com)
The House by Danielle Steel
Rating: 5 Stars
I think her writing gets better and better. It is getting really hard to put this book down. I can't wait to see how it ends.
Bridget
Beach Music by Pat Conroy
Rating: 5 Stars
I just reread this old favorite, and it's still as good as I remembered. The descriptions of Rome and Venice have me perusing travel sites to see if I could possibly afford a trip to these places!
Mary Ellen Haney
Love, with Noodles by Harry Freund
Rating: 4 Stars
I read Harry Freund's new book, LOVE, WITH NOODLES, which is delightful and funny. It's about a sixty-year-old Jewish widower, and the women who come into his life.
Christy
Beach Road by James Patterson and Peter de Jonge
Rating: 1 Stars
I was very disappointed with this book. I love the Alex Cross and the "Women's Murder" series. The author with whom he wrote this must have written the whole book. Maybe the twist was Patterson's idea, but I hope that was it. The book was not worth the time, but I read it.
Christy (OLTLFREAK@AOL.COM)
Deep Sea Dead: A Pauline Sokol Mystery by Lori Avocato
Rating: 5 Stars
I love the Pauline Sokol mystery series! This is the fourth installment, and it gets better with each book! I would hate for it to end because I'll miss all the characters!
Judy (joswood@msn.com)
Mary Kay Andrews by Savannah Breeze
Rating: 4 Stars
Mary Kay Andrews's books are so much fun to read. BeBe Loudermilk is cheated out of everything she owns by a sweet-talking con man. She and some of her friends head to Florida where the con man has been located. They proceed to "cheat him back" and get BeBe's money and belongings returned. The way they do this is hilarious!
Krishna (lane1088@yahoo.com)
The Third Secret by Steve Berry
Rating: 4 Stars
The book is about the Fatima apparition of Mary. The main character is a priest who has doubts about the dogma of the Catholic Church and the older rules that it still sticks to such as priest being women and being able to marry. It is an interesting tale with lots of twists and turns. The ending was a little disappointing because you want to see something earth-shaking happen, but I guess the ending is more realistic than anything else. If you liked ANGELS & DEMONS, than you'll like this one.
Susan
Atlas Shrugged by Ayn Rand
Rating: 2 Stars
This book, although striving to prove an example of why individual success is a necessity for society to advance, is slow and belabored. At 1000 pages, I felt it was about 600 too long --- and I am one who hates it when a book ends!
Christy (OLTLFREAK@AOL.COM)
The Last Cato by Matilde Asensi
Rating: 5 Stars
I love love love this book! I Don't want to spoil anything, so you just have to go and pick up a copy. It renewed my interest in Dante's works, too. If you liked THE LAST TEMPLAR, THE TEMPLER LEGACY, ANGELS AND DEMONS, and THE DA VINCI CODE, you will love this.
Krishna (lane1088@yahoo.com)
Holmes on the Range by Steve Hockensmith
Rating: 4 Stars
The premise of the book focuses on two cowboys in the late 1800s who read Sherlock Holmes stories and follow his deduction techniques to solve a mystery that occurs on the range. There are some really funny things in the book but the setting is vividly described. The language, the manners, the clothing used and the landed gentry is well depicted for that time period. I'd recommend this to anyone who likes Sherlock Holmes mysteries or westerns.
Jen
A Necessary Evil by Alex Kava
Rating: 5 Stars
A page-turner suspense novel.
Gale (mochfly@swbell.net)
Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris
Rating: 4 Stars
A nice continuation of the enjoyable Sookie Stackhouse series.
Gale (mochfly@swbell.net)
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 4 Stars
Finally, after years of reticence, Myron Bolitar is back with all the gang in tow --- Win, Esparanza, Big Cindi, etc. PROMISE ME is good, but not quite on a level with the best of Coben's Bolitar series.
Gloria
Blood Test by Jonathan Kellerman
Rating: 5 Stars
This is another Alex Delaware book. In this installment, Delaware's life is threatened by someone who attended a symposium at which Delaware gave a speech. Therapists from the same symposium are being killed one after the other. Is Delaware next? BLOOD TEST is a very exciting book with a surprise ending.
Susan
One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus
Rating: 4 Stars
An interesting premise based on the idea of "What if things had happened differently in US history?" May is a woman who choosees to participate in a program in which 1000 women are traded to the Cheyenne nation in exchange for horses. The women are married to Cheyenne warriors who hope that the unions will prove to provide a catalyst for peace between 19th-century white settlers and The Cheyenne.
Richard
High Fidelity by Nick Hornby
Rating: 5 Stars
A funny and charming look at romance, music, and friendship.
Richard
End of Alice by A.M. Holmes
Rating: 4 Stars
Young female aspiring pedophile corresponds with aging incarcerated male pedophile. Disturbing. Disgusting. Offensive. Mesmerizing.
Janet Best (janebeatty92083@yahoo.com)
The Little Lady Agency by Hester Browne
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a very good book, and it keeps the reader interested in what is happening.
Samantha
The Coffin Dancer by Jeffery Deaver
Rating: 4 Stars
I am the perfect audience. I don't see things coming and I am ALWAYS surprised, long after everyone else has figured 'it' out. With that being said, I still don't think ANYONE could figure out the ending to this book before the time comes. I was clutching this book, gasping, commenting out loud and finally, when I finished it, collapsed on the couch out of mental exhaustion. This book is amazing. From the author of THE BONE COLLECTOR, this is the first book that brings you Lincoln Ryhme, the quadriplegic CSI detective and his protégé, Amelia Sachs. They are an amazing duo. Deaver spins a complicated tale and gives plenty of interesting CSI facts to help you along. A must read for mystery and thriller lovers.
Susan
The Dive from Clausen's Pier by Ann Packer
Rating: 3 Stars
This book --- although loved by my reading group --- is a somewhat predictable tale of a woman whose fiance, just as she is considering breaking off the engagement, breaks his neck and becomes paralyzed. She goes through a metamorphosis in New York City, and must decide whether she is willing to try to take care of him 'til death do them part.'
Susan Reading
An Ordinary Man by Paul Rusesabagina
Rating: 5 Stars
Mr. Rusesabagina is the man who inspired the film Hotel Rwanda. There are parts of this book that are difficult to get through, just as scenes in the movie were hard to watch. It is hard to believe people could do such horrific things to fellow human beings. It also is absolutely amazing that the author was able to cajole and bribe his way to saving not just his own family, but nearly 2000 others who sought refuge in his hotel. Most especially difficult to comprehend is the way the rest of the world turned it's back for 100 days while one million people were slaughtered.
I had the honor to meet Mr. Rusesabagina recently, and he is the most eloquent of speakers --- the very epitome of a gentleman. He does not consider himself to be a hero, nor special in any way, but when he shook my hand, I believe I was touched by one of God's angels of peace. This book will definitely make you think and cause you to talk about it with others.
Donna
Countdown by Iris Johansen
Rating: 5 Stars
It's a "can't put it down until you finish it" book that is definitely one of her best. Her psychological thrillers always interest me, but this one is riviting. Her writing style is so interesting --- you just can't wait to find out what will happen next. It's a real page turner.
Stella
Humble Pie by Anne Dimock
Rating: 5 Stars
This charming book is folksy and humorous. It makes you want to get out the rolling pin, heat up the oven and bake a delicious pie. Along the way, there may be memories revisited.
Shannon
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
Rating: 5 Stars
This book really shows the strength of women under the most impossible circumstances.
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