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Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
The Poe Shadow by Matthew Pearl
Rating: 4 Stars
"Once upon a midnight dreary ... " THE POE SHADOW is an entertaining story of ratiocination that would make Poe himself proud!
Jodi
Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 5 Stars
Another great addition to the Stephanie Plum series. It's just as zany as all the others.
M. Jane Campbell (mjkccamp@internet.com)
The Hotel New Hampshire by John Irving
Rating: 4 Stars
I have started to read the "modern classics" and THE HOTEL NEW HAMPSHIRE is my latest. I really liked it then, I love it to the last word now. Although the characters are full of their own eccentricities, all of us can identify with one or two --- if not in ourselves, then in our friends and family.
Marilyn Shoemaker
The Antonakos Marriage by Kate Walker
Rating: 5 Stars
A wedding ultimatum, hot and sexual tension that will burn the pages of this romantic story set in Greece.
What a wonderful journey in finding love Theo and Skye experienced. The story is so tender at the end, I couldn’t stop the tears. Sky Marston has the misfortune of promising an older Greek man that she will marry him and provide heirs. She is trapped in this agreement for the mere fact that her father worked from Cyril Antonakos and siphoned funds from his company. In order to save her father from being prosecuted and paying for her mother’s heart condition, Skyke goes along with this agreement in order to save her family. However, she decides to leave her family country home and go to London for a last fling before leaving for Greece.
While entering an English cocktail lounge, Skye and Theo Antonakos have eye contact and the sparks fly. However, she is detained by a group of noisy men and is rescued by Theo. The sexual pull between these two is electric and they overnight together in an evening of pure passion. However, they only give their first names and Skye flees the next morning.
She flies to Greece to get ready for her wedding, and on the third day, Cyril’s son arrives for the event. But to Skye’s amazement, who should the son turn out to be but Theo Antonakos! From that moment, there is such tension, anger, and turmoil, and it’s so passionate as only Kate Walker can write.
Skye’s and Theo’s journey is a rough one but so intense, emotional and passionate that you won’t be able to put this book down. Kate Walker has such an incredible way of bringing her characters to life and giving her readers hours of reading pleasure.
JM
Driving By Moonlight by Kristin Henderson
Rating: 3 Stars
A soldier's wife drives across country while he husband is deployed to the Middle East.
Jennifer Pousson (rentjenn@hotmail.com)
The Man of My Dreams by Curtis Sittenfeld
Rating: 4 Stars
The second novel by the author of PREP deals with a young woman trying to find her place in the world. For those of us dealing with similar issues, this book is like a guide and a breath of fresh air. Many of us can probably relate!
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Eventide by Kent Haruf
Rating: 5 Stars
An excellent story that will pluck at your heart-strings, and hold your interest.
Sara Chamama
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 4 Stars
Finally, the book we've all (or at last I have) been waiting for --- the continuation of Coben's Myron Bolitar series, which he dropped for a while when he became more famous for his stand-alone thrillers. All the great characters are back, albeit older if not exactly wiser. I was really excited to read it and catch up on all their lives, even if PROMISE ME is missing some of the wit and humor of the original Bolitar books.
Melanie
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Rating: 5 Stars
i could not put this one down --- I found it beautifully written and poetic. The story is the kind that you rip through because you cannot get enough, but then you slow down as the end nears because you do not want to leave these characters and their lives behind.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
The Conjurer's Bird by Martin Davies
Rating: 4 Stars
A rare bird found on Cook's original trek, mounted and given away, has been discovered, and the chase is on to find it.
Brett
London Is The Best City In America by Laura Dave
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a great book. It's so funny and truthful about the romantic choices we have trouble making; a truly riveting read.
Ann P.
The Whole World Over by Julia Glass
Rating: 4 Stars
Not quite on par with Glass's first novel, THE THREE JUNES, but still satisfyingly insightful into human emotions, especially the last 100 pages or so.
Ann P.
Intuition by Allega Goodman
Rating: 4 Stars
The title of the book by the author of KATTERSKILL FALLS leaves the reader wondering about his or her own intuition in deciding the culprit of Allega Goodman's newest, INTUITION. Thought provoking and a good book club selection.
Ann P. (apatten@netzero.com)
Everyman by Philip Roth
Rating: 5 Stars
Philip Roth, as usual, delivers a wallop with his tribute to our sense of age and aging, love and loving. We are all the "everyman" of the title, whether we are cognizant of the fact or not. Roth tells us about ourselves. It's difficult to listen, but rewarding to understand. An unforgettable tribute to man, and to Philip Roth.
Marjorie Clark (marjclark@comcast.net)
The Bookwoman's Last Fling by John Dunning
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a great series of books if you're interested in the book trade, not to mention the scandal involved with rare and valuable books.
Loretta Davis
Many Leaves, A Single Tree by Doug 'Hollywood' Davis
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a very non-traditional and somewhat controversial collection of poetry. It covers various topics and styles. The writing is stylish, yet simplistic enough for anyone to be able to pick it up and read it. Anyone who reads this book will walk away with a new view on life, and thier place in it. I highly recommend this book.
Fay
Leeway Cottage by Beth Gutcheon
Rating: 4 Stars
First book by this author that I have read. It was an engaging story of a summer place and the people who inhabited it.
Fay
Cross Bones by Kathy Reichs
Rating: 4 Stars
One of the best suspense series around! Although, I could detect some "hold over" from script writing (Bones on tv). She had a lot more dialogue than I remember from the earlier books. Not bad, just different.
Fay
Domestic Pleasures by Beth Gutcheon
Rating: 5 Stars
After reading LEEWAY COTTAGE, I found this book. It's an attention-keeping story of the interconnected lives of four families.
Liza
You Remind Me of Me by Dan Chaon
Rating: 4 Stars
A very readable story of two brothers finding each other. One was given up at birth by his teenaged mother, and the other --- born 4 years later --- was kept. With these two very different lives, this book is tinged with sadness.
Ruth
Miss American Pie by Margaret Sartor
Rating: 4 Stars
This memoir consists of diary entries from the author's teen years as she struggled with the prevailing issues of the 70s. I love reading this type of format.
Ruth
Everyday Wisdom for Success by Wayne W. Dyer
Rating: 5 Stars
This small book is full of the best bits from the author's teachings.
Mike Charles (mgcspider@aol.com)
The Book of the Dead by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Rating: 5 Stars
When these two authors collaborate, you're in for a great time! This novel completes the saga of the mystical, almost supernatural FBI Agent Aloysius Pendergast. He finally faces off with his arch enemy --- his own younger brother Diogenes. There are more than a few surprises in this book for fans and new readers alike. The authors even wait until the very end to leave an opening for more Pendergast tales. This is the best summer read so far! It is worth your time.
Ruth
It's OK If You're Clueless by Terry McMillan
Rating: 4 Stars
Written in a style that should appeal to recent high school graduates.
Ruth
Tales of a Female Nomad by Rita Golden Gelman
Rating: 3 Stars
As her marriage falls apart, the author takes off on her own to travel and live in primitive cultures. I read this for my book club and enjoyed it more than I thought I would.
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Ruddy Gore by Kerry Greenwood
Rating: 3 Stars
An Australian mystery set in the 1920s. This time the mytery takes place in the theater --- amid a Gilbert and Sullivan number. A look behind the scenes at the lesser characters responsible for a production.
T. Thomas (toythomas@comcast.net)
Spook by Mary Roach
Rating: 3 Stars
A look at research --- scientific and otherwise --- into life after death.
T. Thomas
Book of the Dead by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Rating: 4 Stars
The latest of the Pendergast books.
T. Thomas
Bleeding Hearts by Susan Wittig Albert
Rating: 4 Stars
This latest China Bayles mystery is one of the better ones in the series.
Douglas R. Cobb (goofier1@wmconnect.com)
The Shark God by Charles Montgomery
Rating: 5 Stars
THE SHARK GOD: ENCOUNTERS WITH GHOSTS AND ANCESTORS IN THE SOUTH PACIFIC by Charles Montgomery is a fascinating portrayal of how missionaries have been a force of both good and bad in the Melanesian Islands. But it is also much more than that: a tale of magic, religion, exploitation of native cultures, and the personal quest of the author to retrace the footsteps of his great-grandfather Henry Montgomery, who served as a missionary. THE SHARK GOD melds genres quite successfully. It is somewhat of a travelogue, depicting the culture (kastom) and relatively unspoiled exotic beauty of the Melanesian Islands, as seen through the eyes of the author as he retraces his great-grandfather's footsteps. The book is a triumph that refuses to be pigeonholed, at times reminiscent of Melville and Conrad. It demands to be read and cannot be easily encapsulated --- a masterpiece of writing that deserves a wide audience.
T. Thomas
The Tender Bar by J. R. Moehringer
Rating: 3 Stars
A coming-of-age story.
Susan Jensen
Labyrinth by Kate Mosse
Rating: 4 Stars
I enjoyed this sweeping saga about 2 women in different time periods trying to figure out the truth behind the Holy Grail. It was a very interesting, engrossing story peopled with engaging characters. I was easily lost in the story, finishing the large tome in just 2 days. A very good read.
Susan Jensen
Open House by Elizabeth Berg
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the heartbreaking, but also hilarious story of Samantha Morrow, a 42-year-old woman dealing with a divorce. After breaking down, Sam rallies and begins creating a new life for herself and her son, which includes taking in some zany boarders. The story is nothing new, but Sam's very funny, very real, inner dialogue makes the novel sparkle.
Marsha
Telegraph Days by Larry McMurtry
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a charming tale of the wild west told from the perspective of a feisty, clever young woman. Many famous names of western lore are woven in the story and we really enjoy the ride.
Ruth
Humor Me, I'm Your Mother! by Barbara Johnson
Rating: 5 Stars
Humorous stories that relate to all stages of parenting, from infant to adult children.
Bonnie Gluhanich
One Shot by Lee Child
Rating: 4 Stars
I just discovered this terrific mystery author and look forward to his other books.
Marilyn Shoemaker
Irresistible by Susan Mallery
Rating: 5 Stars
Susan Mallery has done it again as far as writing an incredible series about the Seattle Buchanan family. Her second in the series (DELICIOUS being the first), IRRESISTIBLE is just that. It’s full of family issues, love, some danger, betrayal, and it includes short snippets about the Buchanan siblings. However, IRRESISTIBLE is Walker Buchanan’s story.
Walker decides he must retire early from the Marine Corp. He’s seen and been through way too much, and he has a mission. His friend took a bullet for him and died with no family, no one to mourn, with the exception of a young woman who he mentioned many times to Walker. Walker returns to Seattle and his family for the main purpose of finding his friend’s girlfriend and delivering a letter to her. He is immediately thrust into two situations --- the first being family duties to sit at the helm of the family corporation in place of his grandmother, who has to be hospitalized due to a heart attack and fall; the second --- he moves into a neighborhood and meets three incredible people: the beautiful Elissa, her daughter Zoe, and Mrs. Ford who all reside in his building.
Neither Walker nor Elissa are looking for love but the forces of nature bring them, their families, and a horrible ex-boyfriend into the mix. There is lots of emotion with lots of intensity in this love story.
This story is one I could not put down. Once I began Walker’s journey, I read it immediately from cover to cover. Susan Mallery is a master storyteller and this series is such an entertaining one, one that will top the charts for the year and next year as well, with additional books in the series.
Kevin Wever
Jagged Fate by Steve Santel
Rating: 5 Stars
A real page turner full of suspense and intrique. This debut novel by Steve Santel shows great character development and the ability to evoke strong emotions with an ending you simply won't believe. As much as I enjoyed the book, I invision it even better as a movie.
S Stern
Star Lake Saloon and Housekeeping Cottages by Sara Rath
Rating: 3 Stars
Vivid and rich descriptions of places and moments are offset by shallow major characters, unnecessarily explicit sexual chat, an ecologically dogmatic plot twist, and unresolved plot elements.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky
Rating: 3 Stars
I couldn't really get into this story. Since it's now a bestseller, maybe it's me.
Marilyn Shoemaker
Flirting With Forty by Jane Porter
Rating: 5 Stars
FLIRTING WITH FORTY is a must read for all women, whether single or in a relationship, as one learns through the main character’s journey to “be all that you can be.” It’s a story so profound it will have you laughing and crying at the same time. It’s a story of dreams, hope and learning to be comfortable with oneself.
Once I began the journey with the author, Jane Porter, I honestly couldn’t put it down. I saw so much of myself as a mother, as a wife, and as a woman. Just reading the story made me want to want more for me!
As the character, Jackie points out that sometimes we lose ourselves along the way. We get so caught up in life that we lose ourselves and we blindly accept fate. So, what’s wrong with taking a chance, having an adventure, discovering yourself, and receiving pleasure? Absolutely nothing!
This book is not just about falling in love; it’s about relationships, friendships and finding the courage to grow. As Jane points out, “growing up doesn’t have to mean growing old”. Amen.
Jane Porter, again, has outdone herself with this incredible story for women of all ages. It’s personally given me the courage to begin anew, to explore options and yes, and “to be all that I can be!”
Sandy (Yodasmommy@woh.rr.com)
The Memory of Running by Ron McLarty
Rating: 5 Stars
Not everyone will like this book. Parts are a little rough. Smithy Ide is a 43-year-old overweight, friendless, chainsmoking, drunk who is a loser. His parents die, and while cleaning out the house, runs across his old bicycle. He somehow begins an epic journey across the United States on his bicycle and has some very very interesting adventures. We also learn about his life growing up with his mentally ill sister, Bethany. Many thanks to the friend who recommended this book!!
Sandra F.
The Parliament of Man by Paul Kennedy
Rating: 4 Stars
For those of us who grew up in the 1950s and 1960s, the United Nations loomed large in our lives. We watched with bated breath the marathon sessions of the UN during the Cuban missile crisis and the various Arab-Israeli conflicts. Those were times of high drama with the tension in the Security Council between Russia and the US. My generation looked upon the UN as the world’s best hope for peace. In THE PARLIAMENT OF MAN, Paul Kennedy has given readers a wonderfully concise history of the United Nations. The format of the book --- dealing with each body within the UN in separate chapters rather than a chronological treatment of the entire UN --- makes for an enjoyable reading experience. A must read for all those who have forgotten or never knew the reasons for the existence of the United Nations.
Lew (mipalew@aol.com)
The Great Influenza by John M. Barry
Rating: 3 Stars
Subtitled THE EPIC STORY OF THE DEADLIEST PLAGUE IN HISTORY, it began in the winter of 1918. Very factual and quite interesting, it was an eye opener. A timely topic.
Bonnie Gluhanich
Jesus Land by Julia Scheeres
Rating: 4 Stars
A Fascinating memoir and scathing indictment of all that's unholy about some pseudo-religious people.
Marilyn Shoemaker
Thrill Me To Death by Roxanne St. Claire
Rating: 5 Stars
THRILL ME TO DEATH is an exceptional addition to Roxanne St. Claire’s Bullet Catcher series. It’s emotionally packed with all sorts of twists, turns, and danger, not to mention the sensual tension and scenes between the main characters, Max and Cori.
If you’ve read St. Claire’s books, Max Roper first appeared in TROPICAL GETAWAY, her debut novel. Max left the DEA and followed his best buddy, Dan to the security and personal protection business as a Bullet Catcher. Max also makes an appearance in the first book of the series, KILL ME TWICE. One gets the impression that Max is not only handsome and strong, but shows absolutely no emotion. Wrong…. In this book, the reader will absolutely fall in love with this man who keeps to himself, holds back, and will soon have the answers revealed in his past.
Enter Cori Peyton, Max’s Bullet Catcher assignment. Max is assigned to protect Cori and is hired to be her bodyguard and security expert. They have a past history --- at one time they were in love and hoped to marry. However, things happened and Cori ended up marrying an older millionaire who has died, and his death is being questioned, and Cori’s now in possible danger. Max is to sort this out and put all personal feelings aside.
I enjoyed THRILL ME TO DEATH due to the danger, the cast of characters. and of course. the romance. Max and Cori’s love story is so full of passion and tension, and how they find their way back to each other is an emotional rollercoaster ride. There are so many twists and turns to this very exciting romance/suspense, and again, St. Claire has written a winner!
There are other interesting characters --- her stepson, attorney, best friend Breezy and a cast of other Bullet Catchers. This is a book I’ve been waiting for since I read KILL ME TWICE and I wasn’t disappointed. I can’t wait for the next in the series
Marilyn Shoemaker
The Scorsolini Marriage Bargain by Lucy Monroe
Rating: 5 Stars
THE SCORSOLINI MARRIAGE BARGAIN is brilliant! Passion, pride, pain and persistence are all rolled into one, making the ending bittersweet to this spectacular Royal Brides series.
I cried and cried --- it was just wonderful… incredible, really. It's my favorite of the series, because of Claudio Scorsolini and how he discovered what was always in his heart. What is it about crown princes or sheikhs that attract the reader? These men are powerful, dynamic, handsome as sin, and sexy, but can't show their true feelings? Well, this future heir to the throne learns a very valuable lesson in finally discovering his love and feelings, and expressing them to his lovely Therese.
Again, Lucy Monroe addresses an issue that must be painful for some women, the medication condition endometriosis. I think it's wonderful how this author has the courage to tackle subjects like these in her books. She not only entertains her readers with stories of passion and promise, but educates them as well.
Therese Scorsolini is not without fault in making their marriage rocky. She has a secret and is not willing to share it properly with her husband. She married the heir to the throne knowing that she was in love with him. She finds out that she might not be able to give him heirs, due to having endometriosis. Instead of coming clean, she asks for a divorce. Their marriage suffers and all communication shuts down, causing lots of pain and suffering for this royal couple.
Their journey into finding love and happiness is one you won’t want to miss. However, I strongly suggest you read the other two books in the series, THE PRINCE'S VIRGIN WIFE and HIS ROYAL LOVE CHILD, as you will definitely fall in love the Scorsolini men and the women they choose to have in their lives.
Sharon Stern
Devil in the White City by Erik Larsen
Rating: 4 Stars
This book is a wonderful story about the 1893 Chicago Columbian Exposition (World's Fair), and all its glitz and glitter, written in contrast with the story of a serial killer at work within the borders of this festive and glamorous setting. This is rich in historical description and analysis of Chicago after the 1872 Great Fire, and a great social history of what life was like in the gilded age of Victorian America. This is a great read for everyone who loves Chicago, and if you've been there, you do!
Jennifer
Carolina Isle by Jude Deveraux
Rating: 5 Stars
I thought this book was a good, easy read. It had many twists, some that were predictible, but good. I always hate when a book ends because I want to know where the characters are going/doing. But I was very pleased with the ending of this book. I would definitely suggest it as a good book to read in the sun!
Tanya
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
Rating: 5 Stars
Amazing story of women's lives in 1800s China. The portion about foot binding rituals was particularly vivid. Our book club had a very passionate discussion about this book. We would have loved to talk to the author about her book but weren't able to arrange that. She is available for dissusions.
Warn (forderic2005@yahoo.com)
The Guards by Ken Bruen
Rating: 5 Stars
Doesn't get much better then this.
Fancy Venters
Full of Grace by Dorthea Benton Frank
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a wonderful book by a writer who must have experienced a miracle or is aware of one!
Frank's preceeding books have all been interesting, but this one should prove entertaining, enlightenling and miraculous!
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
Final Target by Iris Johansen
Rating: 3 Stars
This book will capture your attention with plenty of mystery and suspense, romance and political intrigue. It is a quick and easy read, and if you are a fan of Iris Johansen's books, then you will like this one.
Maria Bongiovanni (mariabong@cox.net)
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 5 Stars
This is an excellent book about a 13-year- old girl who was genetically conceived in order to be a match for her 16-year-old sister who has had leukemia since the age of 2. The main character, Anna, gets a lawyer to sue her parents for medical emancipation so that she doesn't have to continue donating to her sister. This is an excellent book, but you should have kleenex nearby because it will eventually make you cry.
Christy (OLTLFREAK@AOL.COM)
The Good Good Pig by Sy Montgomery
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this book! I laughed, and I cried. I used to have a pot belly pig, so I could relate to a lot of the antics. Who could not love Christopher Hogwood! A must read!
Marilyn Shoemaker
Naked In His Bed by Sandra Marton
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the final book in the Knight Brothers series and is so hot, sensual and steamy that you won’t be able to put it down.
Alexander Knight is the youngest Knight brother and an ex-special forces agent who is hired to protect the beautiful and lovely Cara Prescott. The “Agency” wants to hire Alex to keep Cara safe so that she can testify against a former employer who they want to put in prison, and she is the only witness. Cara has refused to testify or go into the witness protection program, so Alex makes plans to not only protect her, but kidnap her and take her to his private island.
Upon their first "highly charged" encounter, they are attracted to each other, confused, mistrusting, and wary; but let me tell you, I couldn’t even get to Chapter 5 without my heart racing. Both of these characters are extremely proud, stubborn, intelligent, and their sexual attraction is “sizzling,” to say the least. Their love story is truly an adventure full of love, lies, secrets and suspense.
For me, this final book was my personal favorite, but I can’t begin to tell you what an incredible series Sandra Marton has written. All three books, THE DESERT VIRGIN, CAPTIVE IN HIS BED, and this sensational book, NAKED IN HIS ARMS are just another example of Sandra’s talents in telling a story, one her readers will not forget.
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
The Jury by Steve Martini
Rating: 4 Stars
#6 in the Paul Madriani series, THE JURY was about Dr.Crone, who is accused of murdering his colleague, Kalista Jordan. He is thought to be the murderer because she accused him of sexual harassment, and he was found with items that are similar to the murder weapon. Paul Madriani is defending Crone, and the trial is not going their way --- there is too much circumstancial evidence against Crone. Again, as stated in other comments regarding Martini’s books, I like them because he is great at explaining legal jargon in layman’s terms. The book is pretty good at keeping you in the dark as to the “whodunit.” You can figure it out if you pay attention. I liked this one.
P. Corwin
Firefly Cloak by Sheri Reynolds
Rating: 5 Stars
Reynolds's newest novel is remarkable. It is a mesmerizing coming-of-age story. Right from the beginning of the book, you are immediately engaged to find out why two children are abandoned at a camp ground.
Cheryl Snyder
The Prince of Fire by Daniel Silva
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a story of the Middle East, and in particular, a story about the Palestinians and the Jews and the struggles that have been going on for generations. This is my second time reading the book, as I suggested it to my book group for reading this year. It was enjoyed by all in the book group, and it stimulated a long discussion of Middle Eastern issues. It also fostered an interest in reading other books on the subject because we discovered how ignorant we were concerning Middle Eastern issues.
Debbie Pelfre
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
Rating: 5 Stars
I read this before watching the movie Capote and was so glad I did. What a book! I can't believe the empathy you feel for everyone in the novel --- it really makes you think about so many things on so many levels. I can't believe Capote had access to the family/killers/detectives the way he did either. A must read!
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
Lucky by Jennifer Greene
Rating: 5 Stars
The characters were so real and relatable. The story was intensely beautiful. And last, but not least, it was completely engaging from start to finish. In short, LUCKY was a fabulous book; like none other I've ever read because the story was so fresh and soul touching.
Virginia Smith
Save Your Own by Elisabeth Brink
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a terrific satire/coming-of-age story that kept me up all night turning pages. The character is totally unique and very likeable (in spite of her problems), and the plot is not at all predictable. When I was reading I had no idea what was going to happen next, but looking back, I can see that it all made perfect sense. The story deals with some serious issues too --- religion, individual rights, and finding your bliss. It made me laugh and cry and think. It’s been a long time since I’ve enjoyed a book this much.
Erica
The Husband by Dean Koontz
Rating: 4 Stars
This book was different from most of his other books. It was nice to see a different side of Dean Koontz.
Allan Fredericks
Rat Bastards by John 'Red' Shea
Rating: 4 Stars
This book gives great insight into the inner workings of the Irish mob in Boston.
Nikki Youngren (gramanik2001@comcast.net)
We Are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg
Rating: 4 Stars
This story takes place during the 13th summer of Diana Dunn. Her mother, Paige, gave birth to Diana while she was in an iron lung being treated for polio. We learn about the struggles of being paralyzed from polio and being completely dependant on others for your everyday existence. Even though this is basically Diana's story, I found myself developing a great respect for Paige's determination and drive to raise her daughter when everyone told her it was impossible. This was a good book.
Babs in Jackson
Saving Fish from Drowning by Amy Tan
Rating: 3 Stars
I have not yet completed this book, so I am giving it a tentative rating. I have read Amy Tan before and basically enjoyed her, However, I am having a hard time getting into this one. Perhaps my opinion will change (I somehow hope so), but I am rather bored so far.
Debbie Pelfrey
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 4 Stars
A Great Book by Picoult. I have read all of hers, and this was one of my favorites. We had a great discussion about it with my book club. I love the comic book twist!
Debbie Pelfrey
Night by Elie Wiesel
Rating: 5 Stars
Why was I not required to read this book in school and college as an English major? This was an AWESOME book and should be required reading for everyone, along with ANNE FRANK: THE DIARY OF A YOUNG GIRL. It touched and moved me in so many ways!
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
The Skin Gods by Richard Montanari
Rating: 5 Stars
An exceptional plot. In the genre of mystery novels, this one stands out.
Debbie Pelfrey
Inkheart by Cornelia Funke
Rating: 5 Stars
I read this with my pre-teens and I loved it because it was about a family of book lovers, and what happens when the characters of a book come alive and into their lives. I am going to read the sequel, INKSPELL, next!
Debbie Pelfrey (dpelfre@columbus.rr.com)
The Book Club Cook Book by Judy Gelman & Vicki Krupp
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this! Not only are there great referrals to read for a book club, but also recipes to go along with each book too! A great reference read!
Deanna Hurt
The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger
Rating: 5 Stars
A wonderful story. I didn’t want it to end.
Kelly
Find Me by Rosie O'Donnell
Rating: 4 Stars
Even if you don't care for Rosie as an entertainer, her book is sure to move you. I found it interesting. Even though it is a true story, it sounds like something out of fiction. A real easy, summer beach read.
Kelly
Message in a Bottle by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 5 Stars
Get out the tissues! You're gonna cry! What an excellent love story! An easy summertime read.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Whence Came a Prince by Liz Curtis Higgs
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the last of a trilogy, following A THORN IN MY HEART and FAIR IS THE ROSE. The rules of the Kirk in this era are hard to swallow, but the story is truly engaging.
Sandra F.
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
Rating: 3 Stars
A fable about man's search for his destiny, this little book is beautifully written. I think that every reader will find something of themselves in its pages.
Debbie Pelfrey
The Mermaid Chair by Sue Monk Kidd
Rating: 2 Stars
I did not like this book. I thought the story was contrived and unbelievable, and couldn't wait for it to be over! This was disappointing after her first book.
Carol Carris (cjcwind@hotmail.com)
Triggerfish Twist by Tim Dorsey
Rating: 5 Stars
If you want non-stop action and laughs, this is the book for you. Mr. Dorsey, who might be insane himself, has captured our Florida culture to a tee. His books are like Pulp Fiction meets Animal House. The wild assortment of characters and their criss-crossing paths makes his style unique for a summer read. I loved this book and have already read three more in the series, and I can't wait to read the rest.
Sandra F.
The Night Inside by Nancy Baker
Rating: 3 Stars
This book is an OK read for a summer afternoon. It is one of the many now being written about vampires and I am constantly amazed at the variety of spins that writers put on these old legends.
Stephanie
The Most Beautiful Girl in the World by Judy Doenges
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the story is of a young woman, Robin, growing up in a suburb of Chicago in the 1970s. Her mother dies of cancer when Robin is still a young girl; her father turns to drugs, and Robin's grandmother --- an ex-Vegas showgirl --- comes to live with them. With all the bizarre characters coming in and out of Robin's life, it's interesting to watch her grow up, fall in love, and make decisions of her own. THE MOST BEAUTIFUL GIRL IN THE WORLD is an excellent story of a young woman's transformation from childhood into adulthood, and I highly recommend it!
Loriann Luciano (LA726west@aol.com)
My War At Home by Masuda Sultan
Rating: 4 Stars
This book sheds light on a side that we don't often see of the new immigrant, the one raised here but born "there," Afghanistan. It portrays a woman's experience of growing up here --- living between two worlds and two cultures --- her arranged marriage, subsequent divorce, and journey through college. She also struggles with her soul when a trip "back home" reveals some sad truths.
An inspring story, not to be missed. I read it in one sitting.
Donna
The Third Secret by Steve Berry
Rating: 4 Stars
It's a quick read, but I disagree strongly with how the author ended the novel.
Kim Orlikowski
True & Outstanding Adventures of the Hunt Sisters by Elisabeth Robinson
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is awesome! THE TRUE AND OUTSTANDING ADVENTURES OF THE HUNT SISTERS is written asletters to people from the main character, and it shows all the emotions involved in learning that someone you love very much is sick. A must read!
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
Brimstone by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child
Rating: 5 Stars
I became a fan of Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child when I first read STILL LIFE WITH CROWS. Since then, I have had to go back to the beginning of their work together and start with RELIC.
This novel is a terrific thrill ride that is just too scary and too much fun to put down. It'll l keep you reading far into the wee hours.
BRIMSTONE ends with threads left dangling and a huge cliff hanger. I can't wait to read the sequel, DANCE OF DEATH.
Sandra F.
Thursday Legends by Quintin Jardine
Rating: 5 Stars
This series featuring Bob Skinner, a Scottish inspector, is one of the best I have ever read. Many of the earlier books in the series seem to be out of print. I hope that they will be reprinted soon. Anyone who likes Ian Rankin will appreciate this fine series.
Nana Greller (ngreller@aol.com)
Death Dance by Linda Fairstein
Rating: 4 Stars
This time, the fearless sex prosecutor investigates the death of a famous Russian ballet dancer who was murdered at the Metropolitan Opera house at Lincoln Center in NYC. The book takes a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at New York City's theater world. This is a fun read, with entertaining characters, and a good plot twist at the end.
Crystal F.
Killer Instinct by Joseph Finder
Rating: 4 Stars
I've just started this and it's riveting so far. I can't wait to read more. It grabs you from the beginning.
Crystal F.
The Kill Artist by Daniel Silva
Rating: 4 Stars
I'm listening to this one on tape in my car and I'm on the last tape. It's been a great thriller and since it focuses on Europe and the Middle East, it's been a very different read for me. This is the first in Silva's Gabriel Allons series and it definitely won't be the last one I read.
Jane (janebeatty92083@yahoo.com)
The Lynne Truss Treasury by Lynne Truss
Rating: 5 Stars
This book has four different stories in it and is very enjoyable. I would recommend this to anyone.
Crystal F.
Hot Stuff by Carly Phillip
Rating: 4 Stars
I'm about 3/4 of the way through this fun book, which grabs you from the first page. It's a cute romance with some suspense, making it very light enjoyable reading. I love Carly Phillips's books!
Priscilla
One for the Money by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 3 Stars
I am only halfway through the book, but so far, it has been pretty good.
Enid Grabiner
The Poe Shadow by Matthew Pearl
Rating: 4 Stars
The book is not typical of most bestsellers, but is rather a literary delight full of interesting information about the author and great character development of the narrator. It makes the reader delve into the mystery of Poe's strange death and elicits a need to research to find what is true and what is not.
R Elliott
Strip Tease by Carl Hiaasen
Rating: 3 Stars
This book has some pretty hilarious parts in it, but it gets a little bogged down in places. However, it is a quick read and will make you laugh.
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
Undressing Mercy by Deanna Lee
Rating: 5 Stars
This was an incredible heart-warming erotic romance story with characters that just sizzled. The story will keep you intrigued and involved in a myriad of emotions from betrayal and courage, humor and passion.
I look forward to reading more from Ms. Lee.
Lynn K.
Balzac and the Little Chinese Seamstress by Dai Saijie
Rating: 4 Stars
A wonderful narrative of life in 1970s China.
Doree Wojtkowiak (dwojtko@aol.com)
Piece of My Heart by Peter Robinson
Rating: 5 Stars
A great read with two murder cases intertwined --- one happened in 1969 and one in the present time. It's fun to read about the 60s and people's attitudes back then.
A. Larson
Camille Claudel: A Novel by Alma H. Bond
Rating: 3 Stars
Camille Claudel was Rodin's mistress, a very intelligent woman, a sculptor, and had the great misfortune to be wrongly committed to a French insane asylum for over 30 years by her family.
This is a sad, touching story, but good reading.
Louise Keene
Wild Swans: Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang
Rating: 5 Stars
Part memior and part history, WILD SWANS reflects the turbulance of Mao's China upon several generations of women. An excellent and informative read!
Michele Lauer-Bader (mlauerba@aol.com)
Justice Hall by Laurie R. King
Rating: 5 Stars
Another great Laurie King book. Lots of atmosphere with suspense until the very end.
Lynn K.
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith
Rating: 5 Stars
A wonderful story of a child growing up in poverty, but seeing her life as a rich one.
Michele Lauer-Bader (mlauerba@aol.com)
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this even more the second time around. What a great story. We discussed it at my Library book group and everyone loved it.
Joy Ann
The Turtle Warrior by Mary Relindes Ellis
Rating: 5 Stars
THE TURTLE WARRIOR is set in a small northern-Wisconsin town, starting in the mid to late 1960s. In the center of the story are two brothers, 17 and 9 years old, coping with their alcoholic and abusive dad and their mother's reaction to the father. The boys' relationship with the neighboring farm couple is more loving and normal than their own home life. The older boy, Jimmy, escapes the abuse by enlisting in the Marines and goes to Viet Nam, leaving Bill to fend for himself and try to protect their mother from their dad. There are at least seven different voices or perspectives that tell different parts of this story through present-tense thoughts and memory sequences. Relindes Ellis weaves the story through these voices deftly, while this could be annoying and confusing in the wrong hands. She uses this number of voices to tell this heart-wrenching story, eked out in portions that the reader and the characters can handle.
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Urn Burial by Kerry Greenwood
Rating: 3 Stars
A short, easy-to-read mystery set in Australia, dwelling on the creme de la creme of society and all their foibles. Interesting.
AnnieH (annieh@centurytel.net)
Vanish by Tess Gerritsen
Rating: 5 Stars
I've only read the first chapter and I'm hooked. This is going to be a good one.
Marsha
Philosophy Made Simple by Robert Hellenga
Rating: 4 Stars
PHILOSOPHY MADE SIMPLE is a charming novel about the eternal struggle to understand life. Maybe the learned philosophers didn't have as many answers as everyday people. It's through friends that we learn the meaning of joy, love and understanding. You will love the characters delineated in this novel. They are real people.
Linda K. Zabel (lkzabel@earthlink.net)
Sand in my Bra and Other Misadventures by Jennifer L. Leo, Editor
Rating: 4 Stars
I laughed out loud at some of the experiences these women had in traveling the world. My favorite had to be the rafting adventure trip down the Colorado.
Jacki Sanders (j20sanders@yahoo.com)
Rules of Prey by John Sandford
Rating: 4 Stars
Very suspenseful!!!!
Michael Watson (skirrow22@yahoo.co.uk)
The Enemy by Lee Child
Rating: 5 Stars
There's something about Lee Child's stories that make you want to keep turning the pages. This one takes the reader back to Jack Reacher's Military Police days. I don't usually like retrospectives, but this one works. It's a complete story in itself of the usual murder and mayhem (obviously this time within the military), but it also gives the reader much interest in Reacher's earlier life. An excellent read.
Carrie Hosozawa
Snowflower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
Rating: 5 Stars
Wonderful book about friendship and regret in 18th-century China.
Carolyn
March by Geraldine Brooks
Rating: 5 Stars
A rat's tooth of uneasiness gnawed at me --- isn't that wonderful? I enjoyed the figures of speech and vocabulary almost as much as the imaginative plot. Could Marmee really have been such a fanatic abolitionist?
Ginger (Gingerlola@aol.com)
Break No Bones by Kathy Reichs
Rating: 4 Stars
The author, an anthropologist in North Carolina, writes about a female forensic anthropologist, Temperance Brennan. Temperance solves the mystery of patients who disappear from a free clinic. Reichs writes well and knows her subject.
K. Gold
Shylock's Daughter by Mirjam Pressler
Rating: 4 Stars
THE MERCHANT OF VENICE retold by Shylock's other daughter. I could not put it down, but I was left with a lingering uneasiness at the end.
Dawn T.
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
Rating: 5 Stars
Such a great read! Fantastic writing, believable characters and numerous lessons learned in this book. I smiled and cried, and at the end, gave a heavy sigh... a sign of a good book.
Joanne (chachie1088@aol.com)
Comes a Horseman by Robert Liparulo
Rating: 5 Stars
This is, by far, the best book I have ever read. It is long, but worth every minute you spend reading it. Definitely a page turner.
Jason (amazed121212@yahoo.com)
Across the High Lonesome by James McNay Brumfield
Rating: 5 Stars
The best book I have read in some time! It's kind of a modern-day western, but much more. It should have wide apeal --- think Lonesome Dove. In fact, the reason I picked this book up was the high praise given to ACROSS THE HIGH LONESOME by Larry McMurtry.
Sandy (Yodasmommy@woh.rr.com)
The Yearling by Marjorie Kinnan Rawlings and N. C. Wyeth
Rating: 5 Stars
I am on the last tape of this book and am very sad that it is ending. Things do not bode well for Flag!!! Anyone who like books on tape will love this one!
julie (julietowson31@yahoo.com)
John Adams by David McCullough
Rating: 5 Stars
A wonderful biography written as a novel about one of the most important men in our country's early history. McCoullough has a way with words. This is a very engrossing novel. I highly recommend it.
Carol H.
Elements of Style by Wendy Wasserstein
Rating: 3 Stars
Not up to her past novels, but quite enjoyable.
Patricia Schrot
The Third Victim by Lisa Gardner
Rating: 4 Stars
I am enjoying reading the earlier books in this series about FBI Profiler, Quincy. In this book, he goes to a small town in Oregon because of another school shooting and meets Lorraine Conner --- a local female cop who has the reputation in town of having shot and killed her own Mother when she was 17 years old.
Monica J.
The Last Boleyn by Karen Harper
Rating: 3 Stars
This is about Mary Boleyn, sister to Anne Boleyn. If you like British history, especially the time of King Henry VIII, you will like this book. It is full of details about how the court operated. It is interesting, but slow at times.
Monica J
Marley & Me by John Grogan
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is thoroughly entertaining. John Grogan makes even the ordinary interesting. I laughed and I cried in this book. After finishing it, I had a new appreciation for how well my dogs behave. Marley, the star of the book, is a Lab not known for good behavior. Even through his worst antics, the reader will root for him. Excellent.
Marsha Sobel
Predator by Patricia Cornwell
Rating: 1 Stars
I have read every one of Patricia Cornwell's books, but I'm having a hard time reading this one. It is lacking something.... It's not the usual page turner that she writes. Skip this one.
Melissa (melissaherlevic@yahoo.com)
Under the Banner of Heaven by Jon Krakauer
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a true story about a murder committed for "God" and religious faith.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
The Other Woman by Jane Green
Rating: 3 Stars
Newly engaged, Ellie is happy to be accepted into the Cooper clan --- not to be missed for the details!
Diane Peoples
Refuge by Dot Jackson
Rating: 5 Stars
This is one of those books that creep up on you and takes control of you. The author takes you to a place that truly exists, but few have the privilege to understand. She guides you through the life of Mary Seneca Steele and you will love "Sen" very quickly. I was fortunate to find out, through this book, what the true meaning of "home" really is.
This is Dot Jackson's first novel, but you would not know that from reading it. She takes you places that you could swear she lived.
I highly recommend REFUGE by Dot Jackson.
Barbara Murray
Ghost Walk by Heather Graham
Rating: 4 Stars
A good mystery that takes place in New Orleans, a city known for voodoo, cemetary ghosts, etc. I especially enjoyed the story because I had visited New Orleans and had been to many of the places mentioned in the story.
Jen
Mercy by Julie Garwood
Rating: 4 Stars
Not as good as her more recent romantic suspense, but definately worth the read.
Jen
Prior Bad Acts by Tami Hoag
Rating: 5 Stars
This author just can't seem to write a boring book. Every one of them is a page turner, but this is one of my favorites.
L. Hann
My Point... And I Do Have One by Ellen Degeneres
Rating: 2 Stars
This book had some very humerous parts, but as a whole, it was not that great. I think her jokes are funny when she does them in stand up.
L. Hann
The Best Laid Plans by Sidney Sheldon
Rating: 5 Stars
Very good. Just when you think you have it all figured out, there is a twist that you didn't think about. Leslie Stewart falls for a man, and just before they get married, he gets called out of the country, and she is mortified at the news. Years later, he becomes President. There is nothing worse than a women scorned. Find out if Leslie Stewart can really take down the President and get the ultimate revenge.
Rene Livernois (bookbabe910@aol.com)
The Work of Wolves by Kent Meyers
Rating: 4 Stars
A well-written book by an author I had never heard of, but he does a great job. It's an interesting view of an Indian reservation in the Dakotas.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
Fear of Spiders by John Cother
Rating: 3 Stars
Celebrate the miracle of the human spirit in FEAR OF SPIDERS, which is a tug at the heartstrings coming-of-age story.
Albert Sears
Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami
Rating: 5 Stars
This a strange and wonderful novel. I can barely put it down. Excellent for the summer.
LaDonna Carrington
The Last Cato by Matilde Asensi
Rating: 5 Stars
Very intriguing. A great read.
Debby (Debby236@aol.com)
Ransom by Julie Garwood
Rating: 5 Stars
This one is an oldie but a goodie. With an excellent plot and a great deal of humor, RANSOM is be savored. In this novel, Brodick Buchanan solves a mystery revolving around a box, when Giliian travels to Scotland. King John is quite interested in this box. The search provides the reader with quite a ride.
Judy (joswood@msn.com)
We Need to Talk About Kevin by Lionel Shriver
Rating: 5 Stars
It's not often that I recommend a book so enthusiastically, but this is one of those books. It was one of the most compelling, fascinating, and horrifying books I've read in a long time. Kevin Katchadourian, when he was 3 days shy of 16, massacred fellow students and a teacher at his local high school. The bulk of the book is about his mother's reflections of his birth and growing up years prior to the eventual act. Eva's reflections take the form of letters written to her absent husband. We watch Kevin grow up literally from birth, and we see the forces that shaped who and what he is. The climax of this book is about as horrifying as one could imagine. What wonderful discussions you and your book club could have with this book! "Is it nature or nurture?" If you don't read one other book this year, it should be this one --- that's how good it is.
Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com)
Empress Orchid by Anchee Min
Rating: 4 Stars
A very interesting story about China in the 1840s. Min is very descriptive with their ceremonies and the details of the Forbidden City. For anyone interested in learning about another culture, I highly recommend this book.
China (BlondeFairy1975@aol.com)
The Hunt Club by John Lescroart
Rating: 3 Stars
It's an average mystery/thriller story. I did not like the ending.
Cheryl Scaccio (goycrazy@aol.com)
Consider the Lobster by David Foster Wallace
Rating: 5 Stars
If you can't get through one of his enormous, deleriously annotated novels, the best way to experience DFW is in essay form, where he can't to get too carried away. Uniquely funny and achingly intelligent, this is the perfect book to read this summer.
Anna Lowther
Angry Housewives Eating Bon-bons by Lorna Landvik
Rating: 4 Stars
A great read about the power of women's friendship, and a good romp through the 60s, 70s and 80s.
Shirley Akins
The Kill by Allison Brennan
Rating: 5 Stars
This is suspenseful and so good! I can hardly put it down. This is Allison's third book; the others are: THE PREYand THE HUNT. I highly recommend all 3 books. Great reading.
Janet Ross
The Abortionist's Daughter by Elisabeth Hyde
Rating: 4 Stars
THE ABORTIONIST'S DAUGHTER by Elisabeth Hyde is an engrossing read. The characters are real and complex. The book delves into the human conditions that can lead to murder. It explores how people can be driven to act as they might never imagine they would. Several people had ample motive and incentive as the detectives soon discover. As their investigation continues, we see how Dr. Duprey finds her world crumbling all around her. Her very foundation is rocked by past decisions as well as current events leading up to her murder. This insight into the victim's circumstances made the book special for me. Everyone deserves a second chance, and Diana did not get hers. As a result, a number lives were changed forever. I kept changing my guess about "whodunit" right up to the very end.
Edna King-Miller
Prairie by Anna Lee Waldo
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a fictionalized account of the life of Charlie Burton Irwin, who helped build Cheyenne, WY, and had a successful Wild West Show. He was friends with Will Rogers, Teddy Roosevelt, Tom Mix, Tom Horn, and many other well-known people. I was inspired to search for him on the internet to learn more about him and the early days of Cheyenne. I found the depiction of the real characters very well written, and it made me feel like I knew them when I finished the book. There are tragedies that brought tears to my eyes, and events that I felt a part of. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in Western history.
J. Ross
Home Song by Thomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer
Rating: 4 Stars
This book is becoming a real page turner, advertising itself as a feel good book about a small town with good people. It has gone beyond the "Mayberry" syndrome; the characters are complex. I look forward to finishing the book.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Absurdistan by Gary Schteyngart
Rating: 2 Stars
This darkly comic novel set in modern-day Russia focuses on the predicament of a Russian expatriate who’s unable to get a visa to return home to Brooklyn after coming back to St. Petersburg for his father’s funeral.
China (BlondeFairy1975@aol.com)
The Alchemist's Daughter by Katherine McMahon
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is one of my favorites for the year. It's wonderful historical novel.
Maryellen Goodwin (mgood222@hotmail.com)
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 4 Stars
A great read . . . It grabs you right from the beginning and keeps you in suspense. You'll never know who to trust or what is really the truth.
Maxine
Naked Prey by John Sanford
Rating: 4 Stars
I'm almost finished with this book but I can't put it down. It has so many angles and twists. A great "whodunit."
Patricia Lewis
One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus
Rating: 5 Stars
We absolutely loved this novel because it portrayed characters with exciting and vivid descriptions. The premise of the book was taken from an actual event, turned around by the author. Jim Fergus's research pays off in the two books that our book club read, this one and THE WILD GIRL. We recommend them both very highly.
Margaret Franson (pruter@comcast.net)
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 5 Stars
A thriller that builds suspense from Chapter 1 on, as an act of heroism turns a woman's life upside down and changes her forever.
Cindi K.
The Secret History of the Pink Carnation by Lauren Willig
Rating: 5 Stars
I adored this book. Full of history, suspense and romance, it was a great read.
Debbie
The Husband by Dean Koontz
Rating: 4 Stars
I really liked this story by Dean Koontz. It starts out with very intense suspense and doesn't stop until the last page. A great summer read.
Darcy P.
Dead Watch by John Sandford
Rating: 3 Stars
Sandford doesn't exactly hit it out of the park this time, writing a mystery centered in DC and steeped in political dirty tricks, with a few murders thrown in. Oh, how I missed Lucas Davenport!
Margaret Franson
Killer Instinct by Joseph Finder
Rating: 5 Stars
Another great corporate thriller from the author of COMPANY MAN and PARANOIA.
Bonnie Cooper
Vanish by Tess Gerritsen
Rating: 5 Stars
Ms. Gerritsen knows how to draw in the reader by painting vivid images, by developing her characters so that they are vibrant and alive, and by writing a complex and well-developed story line. This is an amazing and fascinating book and I highly recommend it.
Donna
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 5 Stars
I'm a litlle late reading this, but this is great book.
Kris
Turning Angel by Greg Iles
Rating: 4 Stars
A suspense-filled read. I didn't want to put it down.
Kris
Undead and Unpopular by MaryJanice Davidson
Rating: 3 Stars
Another quirky tale of Betsy, the Vampire Queen.
I love books
The Husband by Dean Koontz
Rating: 5 Stars
I just finished this book and LOVED it! This was my first book by Koontz. I highly reccomend it!
Rachael
The Pink Ghetto by Liz Ireland
Rating: 4 Stars
Great book! I loved HOW I STOLE HER HUSBAND, and this book was great too!
Nina Stafford
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 4 Stars
A great book full of suspense --- I couldn't put it down.
Marsha
The Hard Way by Lee Child
Rating: 5 Stars
Everyone's perfect hero, Jack Reacher, has again come to the rescue. This relentless thriller doesn't falter a step. This series gets better with every book.
Lisa Ruby
The Ghost Orchid by Carol Goodman
Rating: 4 Stars
Carol Goodman is one of my favorite authors. She has a gift for writing mysteries that incorporate history, mythology, the supernatural, and literary illusions, and she does it again in her fourth novel. Set at Bosco, a crumbling mansion in New York's Hudson Valley, five artists must uncover the mysterious events of a long ago night, discovering along the way that they all have hidden ties to the estate.
Bonnie Cooper
Leave Me Alone, I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan
Rating: 4 Stars
I have always been a reader, a lover of books, so I was naturally drawn in by the title of this book. I am pleasantly pleased with what I am finding: a thoughtful and in-depth discussion of the personal value we gain through our various readings.
Jeanne Sheats (catslady5@aol.com)
While She Was Sleeping by Suzanne Forster
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a great romantic suspense with lots of twists and turns. It keeps you reading 'til the end.
Cynthia Fulmer
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
Rating: 5 Stars
Great and interesting read.
Betsy
Bare Bones by Kathy Reichs
Rating: 4 Stars
Long and technical, with a quick twist at the end.
Mary (in Kansas)
Sugar Cookie Murder by Joanne Fluke
Rating: 4 Stars
This book is well plotted, lots of fun, and full of wonderful recipes that make you ready to start cooking.
Margo
What Remains by Carole Radziwell
Rating: 5 Stars
WHAT REMAINS: A MEMOIR OF FATE, FRIENDSHIP, AND LOVE is the true story of the friendship of Carole and Prince Radziwell, and Caroline and John Kennedy. All but Carole die within a few weeks of each other. It was very sad.
Margo
In the Presence of my Enemies by Gracia Burnham with Dean Merrill
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the gripping account of the kidnapping of American missionaries (by Muslims), and their year of terror in the Phillippine jungle. A true story with a bittersweet ending. Such endurance.
Nunu In Niagara
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is a must read.The story is narrated by ninety-something Jacob, who is in a nursing home. He takes us back to the 1930s, when he joined the circus after he endured the loss of his parents. We meet some very interesting people along the way and see the circumstances that have shaped his life. I did not want this book to end, and once again, Sara Gruen has shown us she can weave a believable story.
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
Durable Goods by Elisabeth Berg
Rating: 4 Stars
I really liked this one. It's about a 12 year old, Katie, who lives with her father and older sister, Diane. She is dealing with the death of her mom and the abusive life she has with her dad. They live on an army base in Texas.
It was interesting to read the book through the eyes of a 12 year old. Very good read. I highly recommend anything by Berg!
Lisa J.Y.
Dark Harbor by Stuart Woods
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the newest book from Stuart Woods featuring Stone Barrington. It does not disappoint. It was a great read! Fans of Stuart Woods and the Stone Barrington series are sure to enjoy it.
Jodi
Terrorist by John Updike
Rating: 3 Stars
A little hard to get into, but it's interesting.
Jodi
Beach Road by James Patterson
Rating: 4 Stars
Another good one by James Patterson. As always w/ his books, you can't put them down until you find out the twist and who did it.
Jodi
Promise Me by Harlan Coban
Rating: 4 Stars
Great book! This is the first I've read by this author, and I'm going to read more. The main character thinks he is helping a teen by preventing her from riding with a drunk driver, but she ends up missing. He races to find her to prove he's innocent.
Jodi
18 Seconds by George Shuman
Rating: 4 Stars
Very suspenseful ---A woman can see the last 18 seconds of a person's life by touching him/her. When the serial crime is occuringm the story interlopes with her gift.
Marilyn Shoemaker
The Sheikh's Disobedient Bride by Jane Porter
Rating: 5 Stars
"Disobedient" doesn’t begin to describe Tally, who is on a photo assignment in a wild and dangerous desert city. When she becomes involved in a cross fire and is rescued --- or should I say kidnapped --- by the handsome sheikh, Tair, the war of the sexes begins!
Tally and Tair’s love story is full of passion, heat, disagreements and misunderstandings. In Tair's eyes, Tally is disobedient, and she keeps trying to run away to prove a point. As this couple gets to know each other, the reader is led on an incredible journey right along with them. When Tair takes Tally to his palace, fires like you won’t believe ignite.
In the past, both characters have been through so much. Tally had to abandon her life’s dreams to stay at home and take care of her siblings, as her mother needed to work to support the family. Tally goes through a lot of self-discovery and realizes she has fallen in love with this incredible sheikh. Tair not only lost his father but also his wife and son due to desert wars. He is afraid to let Tally mean anything to him but she slips right into his heart. They marry, because Tair demands they do so, but then Tally is kidnapped. When he realizes she might suffer further danger, he sends her away.
Again Jane Porter has given her readers not just another adventure, but an incredible love story --- one I will personally long remember.
Sally B., San Antonio TX
Places Left Unfinished at the Time of Creation by John Phillip Santos
Rating: 2 Stars
This was the very first selection of the "San Antonio" initiative. A hispanic man, who grew up in San Antonio, looks back at the history of his ancestors in Mexico. It reads more like a documentary and numerous circumstances were repeated. The tale of his Grandfather, who apparently committed suicide, was very fragmented throughout the book.
Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net)
Furnace by Muriel Gray
Rating: 3 Stars
Trucker Josh Spiller makes an unfortunate decision to stop for lunch in Furnace, VA. While there, he sees a woman (who nobody else sees) push a carriage carrying a week-old infant under the wheels of his truck. The tragedy is ruled an accident and Josh is allowed to leave, but not before he is handed --- unknowingly --- a small parchment of human skin with runic symbols, which he must somehow return to the giver within three days, or die a horrific death at the hands of a hungry demon.
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
Momilies- As My Mother Used to Say... by Michele Slung
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a fun little collection of all the little sayings our mothers, grandmothers, and even great grandmothers used to say. Read it to see just how many you remember hearing during your own childhood. ;)
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
David Letterman's NEW Book of Top Ten Lists and We by David Letterman and the Late Show writers
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a great compilation of many the Top Ten lists appearing on the "David Letterman Show" over the years. Very funny --- a great book to read aloud to friends and loved ones.
Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net)
Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella
Rating: 5 Stars
Fun, whimsical chic-lit. Easy on the brain, yet completely enjoyable.
Mary (in Kansas)
Something Rotten by Jasper Fforde
Rating: 5 Stars
Once again, Fforde keeps you laughing at the political maneuvers of his characters, amazed by his imagination of things that very well may be real, and cheering for Thursday Next and her fascinating friends and family. This is a keeper, as are all my Fforde books.
Jodi
Marley & Me by John Grogan
Rating: 4 Stars
This book was very good. You don't have to be an animal lover to enjoy it. It was written by newlyweds who buy a puppy to prepare themselves from parenthood, but instead, end up w/ a hyper, disfunctional, paranoid dog. Very entertaining.
Sally B., San Antonio TX
Great Expectations by Charles Dickens
Rating: 2 Stars
This was an unabridged audiobook read by Frank Muller. Very good reader.
The story was very slow in the beginning and somewhat in the middle. The last 3rd of the story is probably what had everyone excited (especially in the 1860s when it was originally published). But this portion alone does not make a great book.
Cindy Sivula
Savannah Breeze by Mary Kay Andrews
Rating: 4 Stars
The novel is set on Tybee Island and in Savannah. This is a very fast-paced novel that will have you sitting on the edge of your seat, unable to put the book down from start to stop.
Our heroine falls for a guy and his scam and loses everything but her determination, her good friend and her family. Will she be able to "avenge" hers and other women's losses to this con artist? Will she find what really matters most in life? Though the premise sounds easy, the story has surprises all the way to the end.
This author writes in a very easy, conversational style that just carries you along. The personification is easy when you know of a down-home southern woman who makes everyone feel at home with a warm, engaging laugh and personality.
I don't know about all of the readers, but the heroine really reminds me of another famous woman from Savannah who just happens to own a restaurant. See if you agree.
Nikki McConkey (NIKKIRNER@TWCNY.RR.COM)
True Believer by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 5 Stars
As are all of Nicholas Sparks's books, this was difficult to put down and I was excited to find out there was a sequel coming.
Randi Odierno (rodierno@aol.com)
Tribulation Force by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins
Rating: 5 Stars
I know this is an older series, but I began it just recently, and what a killer these first two (of about twelve) are. Tribulation Force takes you from Christ's Rapture to the beginning of the bible's prophesied seven years of tribulation. Fast paced and gripping, I flew through the pages. Now I'm on the hunt for the third book in this series (not easy to find since the publication date is the 80's). EXCELLENT reading for believer and non-believer alike!
Char Anderson
When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin
Rating: 5 Stars
This was, by far, one of the best reads I have seen in a while! I loved it!
Kay Keller
Dead Watch by John Sandford
Rating: 5 Stars
I've read the Prey series and this new novel is every bit as good. This novel is a wonderful political thriller and very hard to put down.
Patti D.
The Prairieville Storekeeper by Don L. Taylor
Rating: 4 Stars
This novel is set in my home town of Waukesha, WI during the years of 1934-1937. The story has historical accuracy and strong characters. The love story of Maribeth and Alex weaves throughout the story.
Alaina Lenhart
Killer Summer by Lynda Curnyn
Rating: 3 Stars
Quick and interesting mystery-thriller about 3 friends sharing a beach house on Fire Island --- possibly sharing it w/ a murderer. A fun beach read that tells the story from different characters' points of view. Perfect summer fun!
Linda
The Man of My Dreams by Curtis Sittenfeld
Rating: 5 Stars
I decided to give this a try after reading that Alice Munro is a fan. I am glad I did. Sittenfeld's writing has been described as honest and refreshing. I found her ability to portray the nuances of a relationship, whether between sisters or lovers, just brilliant.
Janet Martin (jmmaus@hotmail.com)
A Field of Darkness by Cornelia Read
Rating: 5 Stars
Set in Syracuse and Long island in the late 1980s, Madeline Dare, a writer for a weekly newspaper, comes across a clue to a 18- year-old murder that happens to implicate her older cousin. She sets off to clear his name. The characters were rounded, motivated, and, except for Binty, likeable. The plot was believable and well-paced, with appropriate and welcome touches of humor. I just finished a marathon listen to the audiobook version --- couldn't turn it off!! The reader was excellent (despite mispronouncing Hue and Jutland). and really captured the tone of the book.
Vennie
Entombed by Linda Fairstien
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is a murder mystery with a whole lot going on...a cold case based on Edgar Allan Poe and a case involving rape in Manhatten. Ms. Fairstien is a fabulous author and I haven't found a book yet by her that I haven't totally enjoyed!
Susan Jensen
The 6th Lamentation by William Brodrick
Rating: 3 Stars
I enjoyed this book, although it was a little slow at times. The story focuses on Father Anselm, a monk and former lawyer, who finds himself in the middle of a trial involving a former Nazi. As he tries to piece together the puzzle, he meets a cast of interesting characters, whose lives are more connected than they first appear to be. Father Anselm's toughest job is to sift through appearances to find the startling truth. A good read, if you are willing to take the time and patience to slough through it.
Maruclare
The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly
Rating: 4 Stars
This book starts out slowly and with some tedious legal background, but if you can last through that, it turns out to be a worthwhile read. There are a few twists and turns that are unexpected, and an ending that hints at a sequel or a new series like the author's Harry Bosch novels.
Jill
London is the Best City in America by Laura Dave
Rating: 5 Stars
LONDON IS THE BEST CITY IN AMERICA is funny and smart. I really connected with the main character, Emmy, and didn't want the story to end. It is beautifully written, engaging and truthful. In Style says Reese Witherspoon optioned the movie rights --- she will be perfect as Emmy --- I can't wait for the release.
Noreen Brown (nortomb@webtv.net)
Teacher Man by Frank McCourt
Rating: 4 Stars
I was attending Cathedral High School in NY when McCourt started teaching in the public school system there. Our ideas about public school came from movies, the same as his did. It's fun going back in time with him.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Dark Assassin by Anne Perry
Rating: 4 Stars
Again, we visit Victorian England --- a trip through nasty sewers for an even nastier killer.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Marathon by W. William Winokur
Rating: 5 Stars
This novel is a perfect wake-up call for people who are so involved in their careers that all else in their lives suffer.
Janice Kind (KINDLEELF@AOL.COM)
Murder List by Julie Garwood
Rating: 5 Stars
A fast-moving and well-plotted mystery.
Charlotte
In Search of Dorothy, What if Oz Wasn't a Dream? by David Anthony
Rating: 5 Stars
It has taken fifteen years for author, David Anthony, to finish his trilogy sequel to the movie, The Wizard of Oz, due to the fact that it was written primarily from his nighttime dreams --- dreams that were sometimes so vivid that he felt he was living his days in Kansas and his nights in that magical land beyond the rainbow.
Over the years countless generations of fans of this classic tale have all wondered or wished the same questions: What if Oz wasn't a Dream? What if Dorothy's trip over the rainbow was real?
It's twenty years later and we're about to find out. Travel over the rainbow once again to the Land of Oz. Join the Scarecrow as he plans to transport himself along with the Tin Woodman and Lion to the land of Kansas to find Dorothy. But beware as the Wicked Witch of the West is back and she has plans to finally get her sister's Magic Shoes and then destroy all the good in Oz. Whoever gets to those Magic Shoes first controls the fate of Oz, and with time running out, everyone is in search of Dorothy.
Carolyn
Departures by Adrienne Bellamy
Rating: 5 Stars
Interesting, funny, lively, and sometimes disturbing characters. I could not put this one down.
Marsha
Dark Harbor by Stuart Woods
Rating: 5 Stars
This Stone Barrington novel takes place on an island in Maine where Stone inherits a home. Much murder and mayhem ensue while Stone and his pals try to unravel the mystery. First rate.
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
Body of Lies by Iris Johansen
Rating: 3 Stars
This book is filled with so many unexpected twists and turns that you won't have a clue what's going to happen next. Eve, Joe, Jane and Galen from the previous books in the series are all in this exciting thriller.
Cheryl Snyder
West 47th by Gerald A. Browne
Rating: 4 Stars
This interesting read takes you into the underbelly of the New York diamond district and is the story of a man who spends his life solving complicated crimes involving jewelry heists.
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
The Abortionist's Daughter by Elisabeth Hyde
Rating: 4 Stars
I received this book from “One to Watch.” They chose me to preview the book before it got published. I have to say, I really enjoyed it. The Abortionist is a woman who is murdered and her daughter, Megan, is a college student. This book was an excellent example of focus on character development. It had a little suspense and mystery, but for the most part, it was about the characters. There was so much to this book. You could discuss abortion, teenagers' upbringing, down syndrome, stalking, and pornography to name a few. I have never read anything by Miss Hyde, but I am going to add the rest of her books to my want-to-read list.
J. C.
As Nature Made Him by John Colapinto
Rating: 5 Stars
AS NATURE MADE HIM: THE BOY WHO WAS RAISED AS A GIRL is the unbelievably true story of a boy who received a sex-change operation after a botched circumcision, and was raised as a girl until he was told the truth about what happened at the age of fourteen. A fantastic book, especially for anyone interested in the nature versus nurture debate in child development.
Teresa Steinert (steinertt@aol.com)
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this book. It is about 2 Chinese women who form a bond that is to last until death and be exculsive much as a marriage. They communicate with a secret writing, mu shu, used and known only by women. They wrote using a fan that passed between them and their homes.
Sandra F.
The Yacoubian Building by Alaa Al Aswany
Rating: 4 Stars
THE YACOUBIAN BUILDING is a treasure to be enjoyed by any reader looking for insight into modern Egyptian society. The Yacoubian in Cairo contains a microcosm of Egyptian society within its walls --- from the richest resident of the spacious apartments to the poorest resident of the roof. The novel reflects the rich historical and religious heritage of Cairo. One of the characters, Zaki el Dessouki, longs for the European city that Cairo once was while Taha el Shazli discovers the attraction of Islam for the young and disenfranchised. And throughout the book the lives of Egyptian women of all classes demands attention. This is a book that will engage the reader long after the last page is turned.
Sandra F.
Between Friends by Kathleen Rowntree
Rating: 4 Stars
A lovely story of friendship and love and how to preserve one without destroying the other. Set in an English village, it lovingly details all the village characters with their flaws and strengths.
C. Mayo
16 Lighthouse Road by Debbie Macomber
Rating: 5 Stars
What a delightful story! The setting is so real and heartwarming, and the characters just reach out to the reader.
Jo B from Brooklyn, NY
Baker Towers by Jennifer Haigh
Rating: 5 Stars
I devoured BAKER TOWERS like I haven't devoured a book in a long time. There was something completely compelling about the lives of the Novak siblings from the mining town of Bakerton, PA in the middle of the 20th century. I'm looking forward to reading Haigh's previous book, MRS. KIMBLE.
Teresa Steinert (steinertt@aol.com)
The Unknown World by Edward P. Jones
Rating: 3 Stars
This story of a black freed slave who then becomes a slaveowner and his plantation was very intriguing and read like non-fiction. But since it did read like non-fiction, it was a bit slow.
Audrey Burke
Digital Fortress by Dan Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
So far so good. I''m still in the middle of it, but I find it a great read.
L. Hann
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
I read this but had to read it again because it was so good. Excellent!!!
Marsha
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 4 Stars
This is one of Coben's novels featuring entertainment agent Myron Bolitar. Besides being humorous, it lures you into his relentless search for a missing teen. As usual, it ends with a surprising twist.
Janie
Recipes for a Perfect Marriage by Morag Prunty
Rating: 5 Stars
A wonderful story about the joys and hardships that come along in everyone's life. It is about the road not taken and how that road really wasn't better or worse than the one you're traveling.
Ricki (rickimc@aol.com)
Day of the Scarab by Catherine Fischer
Rating: 3 Stars
Not as gripping as the first two books of the trilogy. It does end everything nicely, though.
Gail H
The Last Templar by Raymond Khoury
Rating: 4 Stars
Slow beginning, but it picks up speed and holds your attention.
Jen
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is so good. It's a family story, but not a hokey one, with some nice surprises.
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
The Search by Iris Johansen
Rating: 4 Stars
Eve Duncan and Sarah Patrick are back in this fast-paced thriller full of suspense, betrayals and emotional twists and turns. Great read!
Twanna Hodge (animet_1@hotmail.com)
Cold Fire by Tamora Peirce
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this book --- a wonderful mix of fiction/fanftasy/mystery/drama and magic. It's a great book for teens to read. I would give it two thumbs way way up.
Pat
Digging to America by Anne Tyler
Rating: 4 Stars
An enjoyable and easy read. It's just what I expected from this author, and I'm always glad to get what I expect. I spent a rainy day just reading this book. Thanks, Anne Tyler, for such good books.
Patricia Schrot
Killer Instinct by Joseph Finder
Rating: 4 Stars
Finder's books are all about 'corporate' America and tend to lean more toward the 'formulaic.' He usually has some mid-level employee get himself into a 'situation' and has him emerge a winner. As I read this one, I wondered if Finder was hoping for another movie deal; having said that, I found this one to be better than his last one.
John (spartanjohn@comcast.net)
Cold Hit by Stephen J. Cannell
Rating: 4 Stars
Shane Scully deals with past and present demons in the aftermath of 9/11. This novel provides a perceptive perspective on the Patriot Act and its implications. Cannell is a wonderful storyteller.
Jackie
The Most Important Little Boy In The World by Dean Briggs
Rating: 3 Stars
Bioterrorists try to rid the world of mass population by releasing a flu plague, and only one little boy can help save the world. This book is a little hard to get into, but definitely worth it by the end.
Shirley Younger
Miracle by Danielle Steel
Rating: 5 Stars
Another wining book for Danielle; it keeps you on the edge of you seat until the last page.
Marsha
Break No Bones by Kathy Reichs
Rating: 4 Stars
This absorbing story, continuing to follow the career of forensic anthropologist, Temperance Brennan, has almost everything a thriller needs --- inductive reasoning, shuddering details, relationship problems, romance and a wonderful description of the natural beauty of the South Carolina lowlands.
Lourdes
Mew is for Murder by Clea Simon
Rating: 3 Stars
A little bit too much chick lit meets mystery, but nevertheless a good, light read.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Skywriting: A Life Out of the Blue by Jane Pauley
Rating: 3 Stars
A memoir by one of the most successful women in television --- and one who still seems amazed at her success --- focuses on the tensions in her life arising from family secrets and work vs. personal life conflicts, as well as on the joy she has found in remaking her life in middle age.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
We Are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg
Rating: 4 Stars
A very satisfying novel set in the South during the 1950’s civil rights movement.
Allison Hoskins
The Promise of Death, The Passion of Life by Jana Baldridge Vargas
Rating: 5 Stars
A book that reminds us that life is a part of a cycle that also includes death, and we should embrace both with equal passion. Vargas not only helps to enlighten the reader about death and accepting it as the final part of our life, but she also encourages the reader to live life to the fullest, take in all there is to take in, and love all you can now --- because now is all we have. This is a great read for those who have experienced or are facing loss in their lives --- which means this book is for everyone!
Jen
The 5th Horseman by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro
Rating: 5 Stars
Another major page turner from good ol' James involving the Women's Murder Club. He can't write them fast enough for me.
Jen
Mercy by Julie Garwood
Rating: 4 Stars
A good read, but I think her more recent ones are better.
T. Brown (tsbrown62@aol.com)
In This Mountain by Jan Karon
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the seventh book in a series. As soon as I finished one, I hurried to the library to get the next one. You will love these books!
Lourdes
Leave Me Alone, I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan
Rating: 5 Stars
Corrigan opens her book by writing: "It's not that I don't like people. It's just that when I'm in the company of others --- even my nearest and dearest --- there always comes a moment when I'd rather be reading a book." If you're an avid reader like Corrigan (who is the book reviewer for NPR) you'll love this book!
Allison Hoskins
The Miracle Life of Edgar Mint by Brady Udall
Rating: 5 Stars
An offbeat, moving story of young boy looking for love in his world.
Paige Dollinger
Prep by Curtis Sittenfield
Rating: 4 Stars
Let's just say I was reading in my car on my lunch hour to get this book read because I couldn't put it down. God forbid the work day got between me and PREP. For her first novel, Curtis Sittenfield does a fantastic job, and I'm sure all of us can relate to angst-ridden high-school "prep" student, Lee Fiora, in one way or another. I'm looking forward to reading Ms. Sittenfield's next book, THE MAN OF MY DREAMS.
Pam
Blood Memory by Greg Iles
Rating: 5 Stars
Cat, a forsenic odontologist (teeth..ie teeth marks and bites) helps her married cop boyfriend solve a series of strange deaths, in which the victims are all men with bites all over them. At the same time, she's dealing with her own demons, such as her father's mysterious death, her drinking problem, and breaking the news to her married boyfriend that she's pregnant!
J. Hanson
Footfall by Larry Niven and Jerry Pournelle
Rating: 3 Stars
This was my first book by either of these authors. The basic plot is an invasion by a race termed the "Snouts" by humans because of their resemblance to elephants. It was a nice variation on the typical invasion story, although it could use a bit more clarity in some areas. Bottom line: it was good enough that I will seek out other collaborations and individual efforts by Niven and Pournelle.
Brady (bradylee@myway.com)
The Tender Bar by J. R. Moehringer
Rating: 5 Stars
A superb life story (up to about age 28) with quality of writing that is somewhere above the word "superb." The author has a way with words that is addictive and I never wanted the book to end. His phrases and sentences are like finding yourself in a diamond mine that has so much sparkle that you think, "This is too good to be true."
An abundance of love is displayed here and the progression of a life led is a joy to behold. No wonder the professional reviews are so positive; this is one of the best memoirs I have ever read!
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
The Cold Moon by Jeffery Deaver
Rating: 5 Stars
If you have been reading the Lincoln Rhyme series, you will love this one. If you haven't...start. You will not be disappointed. (The first book in the series is THE BONE COLLECTOR.) This is the 7th, and boy, is it good. Introduce the Watchmaker. Just when you think you have an idea of what's going to happen...Boom, a twist. Just when you think you know whodunit... bam, a turn. Deaver is notorious for this and this book shows that he is the master. Love it!!!
Al
Anger's Way Out by Karen Biron-Dekel
Rating: 5 Stars
This fully illustrated children's book is a unique attempt to demonstrate to young readers the deleterious consequences of holding anger in. This is particularly helpful for children of divorce. The author manages to get a complex message across in a light, non-threatening, and very entertaining way.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
The Man of My Dreams by Curtis Sittenfield
Rating: 3 Stars
A coming-of age novel featuring a Philadelphia-area student at Tufts University in Boston searching, but never finding, the man of her dreams.
Gerry (GerryD8784@aol.com)
Everyman by Philip Roth
Rating: 3 Stars
A man in his seventies looks back on his life and confronts his mortality in this well-written but somewhat depressing short novel.
Monica J.
A Most Uncommon Degree of Popularity by Kathleen Gilles Seidel
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is about mother-daughter relationships and how far parents will go to ensure a bright and happy future for their children. It is written from the point of view of one mother. The thoughts and feelings of the parent are true to life, often funny and often sad. The writing was entertaining. It was a great summer read.
Candace Martin
The Art of Mending by Elizabeth Berg
Rating: 4 Stars
I felt like something was evading me throughout the book.
T. Thomas
My Life in France by Julia Child with Alex Prud'homme
Rating: 5 Stars
A wonderful journey to another time and place.
Julie Parrish
Caddy for Life by John Feinstein
Rating: 5 Stars
The is the story of Tom Watson's caddie, Bruce Edwards. Mr. Edwards get ALS but continues to caddie for Tom Watson during the 2003 US Open. It is a moving and dramatic book about a life devoted to sports and the enduring bond of friendship between caddie and golfer.
Julie Cribb (Julie5@bellsouth.net)
Nighttime is My Time by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 4 Stars
Full of suspense, as usual; there's a lot more than meets the eye as a group of people gather for their 20th high school reunion. There are many characters/subdivisions (bouncing between the characters and their agendas as opposed to sticking more to the main plot) that tend to become a little confusing. Hang in there, though, for a good finish.
Marianne Ridley (marirlpn@aol.com)
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 4 Stars
A thought-provoking novel about a girl who was conceived to keep her sister alive.
Janet Best (best3sons@insightbb.com)
Black Like Me by John Howard Griffin
Rating: 4 Stars
I am reading this book for the first time in my life at 43. I'm not sure how I missed reading it earlier, in high school or college. My book club chose this for our June selection, and I'm so glad we did. It is interesting and somewhat amazing to me that a white man would choose to become black and live in the South in the early 1960s. Hopefully we have come a long way in race relations and human relations, in general, since that time.
Candace Martin
A Good Yarn by Debbie MacComber
Rating: 4 Stars
Fun escapist reading.
Candace Martin
Talk Before Sleep by Elizabeth Berg
Rating: 5 Stars
Easy to relate to.
F. Solomon
Lying in Bed by M. J. Rose
Rating: 5 Stars
I am not even finished with this book because I am reading it slowly so it does not finish too soon! Aside from being a past master at erotica, M. J. Rose never fails to arouse all of your five senses from descriptions of the paper that the protoganist is writing on, to the blocks of chocolate she shares with her friend.
Amy
Paranoia by Joseph Finder
Rating: 4 Stars
PARANOIA has a good twist at end; an interesting and different summer read.
Kristin Olson
Blue Shoes and Happiness by Alexander McCall Smith
Rating: 5 Stars
Another winner for The No. 1 Ladies Detective agency. This one is overflowing with meaning about the philosophy of life and living. Indeed, we all need a "pair of blue shoes" for happiness.
Denise
Maybe a Miracle by Brian Strause
Rating: 4 Stars
This novel really brought to the surface questions about hope and faith when a young girl lapses into a coma after being found floating in her home pool. Her teen brother "saves" her and her mother begins to care for her at home when the girl, Annika, begins to exhibit stigmata and other "signs" that are interpreted as miracles.
Daniel
Snow Crash by Neal Stephenson
Rating: 5 Stars
A very gripping book. An interesting description of the not-so-distant future packed with wonderful satire and black humor. It's simply a must read.
Amy
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 4 Stars
A good, quick summer read.
Albert Sears
Neverwhere by Neil Gaiman
Rating: 5 Stars
A fascinating novel unlike anything else I've read.
Alice Collins
All Night Long by Jayne Ann Krentz
Rating: 5 Stars
Can't put it down!
Sheila
The Undomestic Goddess by Sophie Kinsella
Rating: 4 Stars
I picked up this book for a long plane ride, thinking it would be a silly, easy read. It was, but it was so much more! I loved the characters and the way it made me think about what's really important in life.
Barbara Murray
Kindred by Octavia E. Butler
Rating: 5 Stars
From the first page, I couldn't put it down. Someone recommended this book as being wonderful, and they were right! It's about a black woman in the 1970's who keeps being pulled back into the early 1800's to a slave plantation. VERY GOOD!
Utonia Raaf
The Third Wife by Jasmine Cresswell
Rating: 4 Stars
As an advocate for domestic violence victims, Anna, the heroine has to overcome revisiting her past of a polygamy marriage while trying to defend her parolee client.
Alabama Jack (jquick5342@aol.com)
Shotgun Opera by Victor Gischler
Rating: 3 Stars
Mike Foley is making wine in Oklahoma, and life is almost as good as it gets when you’ve been hiding out for forty years. But Mike’s nephew, Andrew, has seen something he shouldn't have and needs to disappear now. Nikki Enders, the most lethal member of a deadly sisterhood, is chasing him. Can Uncle Mike stop her? When the kill teams descend on Foley’s farm, he is ready, with shotguns blazing. Remember, it ain’t over till the last bullet.
Eileen Quinn Knight
Myths, Lies and Downright Stupidity by John Stossel
Rating: 1 Stars
It is unbelievable how superficial this book's research is! I hate to admit I read it but I feel compelled to warn others of its content. His arrogance is outstanding, and his information on many issues is so one sided and thoughtless. I am not sure why "20/20" thinks he is so newsworthy... I don't!
Diane R
The Rescue by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 4 Stars
This is heartwrenching and true to life. As always, a well-written piece by Sparks.
Nancy
The Same Sweet Girls by Cassandra King
Rating: 4 Stars
This book is about four women --- once best friends in high school --- who, now nearly 50 years old, meet twice a year to share their past and present lives.
Monica J.
The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant
Rating: 4 Stars
You really learn a lot about Italian history in this book. Women did not have much control over their lives. The story was very thought provoking and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's one of those books that you think about a lot after you finish it.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
The Foreign Correspondent by Alan Furst
Rating: 4 Stars
Dateline: Berlin
A journalist becomes a spy in Alan Furst's latest World War II novel.
LaDonna Carrington
Intuition by Allegra Goodman
Rating: 4 Stars
I am enjoying this medical thriller.
Lu
Lydia Cassatt Reading the Morning Paper by Harriet Scott Chessman
Rating: 4 Stars
Great quick read about the sister of Impressionist Mary Cassatt. She was her model in several of her oil paintings.
E.J. Binnig
A Dilly of a Death by Susan Wittig Albert
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a great addition to the China Bayles mystery series. There are lots of pickle jokes in this one, pickling, pregnancy, and of course, murder.
Helen Williams
Killer Dreams by Iris Johansen
Rating: 5 Stars
These characters are from one of her other novels. It's a very good read --- suspenseful.
Monica J.
Three Weeks With My Brother by Micah and Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is a memoir about two brothers recalling growing up during a trip around the world. I found it hard to put down. It was interesting to read about their travels, but the best part was about their perceptions while growing up. I laughed and I cried while reading.
JJ
The Good Good Pig by Sy Montgomery
Rating: 5 Stars
I enjoyed this book about the little pig who grew from the runt of a litter of runts into a hefty 700+ pounds. Christoper Hogwood was more than a farm animal, he was a friend, a social butterfly, a therapist and more.
Toni Savchuck (tonisandlin@aol.com)
Garden Lunacy by Art Wolk
Rating: 4 Stars
If you ever thought that your garden had great flowers and maybe you should enter a flower show, this is the book for you! It is a madcap and hilarious romp through several attempts to win at the Philadelphia Flower Show. It really gives you the inside story. A great summer read on the patio.
Jacki Sanders (j20sanders@yahoo.com)
Faking It by Jennifer Crusie
Rating: 4 Stars
Just started book and it's really good!!
Maxine
Hearts in Atlantis by Stephen King
Rating: 5 Stars
Most people think of King as a writer of horror stories, but he is also a terrrific fiction/novel writer. This story is fascinating. It's about a few kids in the 1960's and goes up to 1999. It is really 4 different stories in one book, but with intertwining threads connecting them all. He really captures the spirit of the VietNam era. The end brings it all together. I couldn't put it down. It's a book I will read more than once.
ardentreader
The Price of Temptation by M. J. Pearson
Rating: 5 Stars
I wish I hadn't read this book because then I could read it all over again for the first time. It's a treat: fast paced filled with lively and engaging characters, and witty to boot. The naughty bits are, well, very naughty and loverly. Oh, and it appears to be historically accurate right down to the recipes.
Linda M. Johnson
Six Wives by David Starkey
Rating: 4 Stars
I've always shied away from "world history," but decided to stretch my wings a bit with this tome. I am definitely not disappointed. I am listening to it on CD. The author keeps the story interesting without letting me get lost in minutiae. The narrator is just British enough to lend authenticity while still being able to understand the book.
Linda M. Johnson
Breakfast at Tiffany's by Truman Capote
Rating: 3 Stars
I had recently seen the movie Capote and decided I should read Capote's book even though I had seen the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's years ago. There are also 3 short stories included in the book.
Melissa
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Rating: 5 Stars
This book was amazing. Never a dull moment. I can't figure out if I hate her parents, or find them interesting and unique. I also wonder if the author would have such a great life, if not for the "horrible" childhood she endured. But what is interesting is the author never lets her feelings during and about her childhood known, she just tells what happened, and the reader decides for themselves.
Vicki Kennedy
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this novel of Dan Brown's and actually enjoyed it more than THE DA VINCI CODE.
Gale Kearley (marcusnanpop@cs.com)
Darkest Instinct by Robert W. Walker
Rating: 4 Stars
I've just started reading this book, but the plot is easy to follow and I can't wait to see who the killer is.
Eileen Quinn Knight (knight@sxu.edu)
What The Best College Teachers Do by Ken Bain
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is not only well written but also has deeply rich content. I find myself underlining so many of the sentences the author has written! For example, on page 18 he states: "While methods vary, the best teachers often try to create what we have come to call a "natural critical learning environment.".... These are challenging yet supportive conditions in which learners feel a sense of control over their observation; work collaboratively with others; believe their work will be considered honestly and fairly;and try, fail and receive feedback from expert learners in advance of and separate from any summative judgment of their effort." The entire book is an uplifting, energizing understanding of what it is to teach and learn. Although it is written for college professors I think it works at every level.
Dawn T.
Lamb by Christopher Moore
Rating: 5 Stars
I laughed out loud numerous times. This is the story of Christ's childhood, as told by his best friend, Biff. What a wonderful take on what could've happened. Creative genius!
Carol K. Bajor (lady99book@aol.com)
Brick Lane by Monica Ali
Rating: 4 Stars
Ms. Ali deftly portrayed the conflict of these East Indian sisters who want desperately to fit in to their new surroundings but miss their homeland. The characters are well developed and realistic. I teach many students who experience the same tug of war of loyalty to country.
Carol K. Bajor (lady99book@aol.com)
The True and Outstanding Adventures of the Hunt Si by Elisabeth Robinson
Rating: 3 Stars
My Book Club just finished reading and discussing this book. It's written in the form of letters to different characters. I could relate to the mother, father, brother, sister's sorrow for their loved one, the younger sister who has leukemia. However, I think the substance could have been richer.
Michael Watson (skirrow22@yahoo.co.uk)
All Fall Down by Erica Spindler
Rating: 3 Stars
I wouldn't want to live in Charlotte, NC. It appears all the women have been abused and all the men are seriously flawed. The storyline is creative, but unfortunately, there are too many clues to point the reader in the right direction. There is a twist at the end, but since my own family has twins within, I just couldn't handle the fact that the one would not know how the other was feeling over such a lengthy period of time. It's an okay book that I read because I was intrigued by COPYCAT, the author's latest. Will I buy it? Yes, if only to hope that life improves in North Carolina.
Michael Watson (skirrow22@yahoo.co.uk)
Dead Simple by Peter James
Rating: 4 Stars
The first book in an anticipated follow-up gives the reader a sympathetic selection of British detectives with the main character trying to deal with the mysterious loss of his wife. The story of attempted murder, fraud and general mayhem sits well enough, although at times, credibilty is stretched with the use of clairvoyants to help aid the discovery of the victim. Similarly, the use of motoring accidents to help move the storyline along does tend to give the impression that the UK is just not safe to drive in. However, I do look forward to the next instalment from an easy-to-read and competent author.
L. Gettle (lgettle@iserv.net)
Memory in Death by J. D. Robb
Rating: 4 Stars
Roarke and Eve Dallas in another exciting adventure.
Margarita (mhaury2@aol.com)
Elements of Style by Wendy Wasserstein
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a thoroughly delicious read; a guilty pleasure, if you will. Set in post 9/11 Manhattan, it ironically chronicles the lives of the shallow and vain. Boy, are they interesting! There are only a few halfway-likeable characters; the rest you love to hate. It reminded me a little of Tilly Bagshawe's ADORED.
April Lemesh (alemesh@aol.com)
Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks
Rating: 4 Stars
This novel is based on the true story of an English village that chose to quarantine itself during 1666, the year of the Plague in England. It depicts behavior both honorable and horrific as the villagers deal with every imaginable horror the disease inflicts on them and they on each other.
L. Gettle (lgettle@iserv.net)
Trouble Shooter by Louis L'Amour
Rating: 5 Stars
Mr. L'Amour never wrote a bad book.
Bobby (bsa@alpert.net)
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon
Rating: 5 Stars
I am re-reading Zafon's beautifully written book for the 2nd time. His "ode to books" novel is a true masterpiece for our time. The writing is brilliant and the story fascinating.
Laura Mustion (loranmu@hotmail.com)
Spin by Robert Charles Wilson
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a Sci-Fi book about the end of the world. It has a little bit of everything --- medicine, sprituality, and, of course, science. It's a book that you have to pay attention to, no skimming; the story is in the details. The last part of the book is a must-read-until-I-finish kind of ending. The beginning didn't quite catch me, hence the four stars. But it turned out to be really good.
Stella
Twelve Times Blessed by Jacquelyn Mitchard
Rating: 5 Stars
A little slow to get started but then found myself eager to read the next page. The story tells of courage, humor and wisdom, no matter what age we happen to be. This is a great love story.
Carol
Anybody Out There? by Marian Keyes
Rating: 3 Stars
Sometimes amusing but often quite sad.
Margarita (mhaury2@aol.com)
The Death Collectors by Jack Kerley
Rating: 4 Stars
An altogether satisfying follow up to this writer's THE HUNDREDTH MAN. We follow Detective Carson Ryder as he deals with crazy criminals, his crazy brother and his love life. The mystery is excellent, with the finale being totally believable but not predictable.
Margaret Kelly (RabidReader44@aol.com)
City of Falling Angels by John Berendt
Rating: 4 Stars
John Berendt writes like an angel. I didn't think I would like this book as much as MIDNIGHT IN THE GARDEN OF GOOD AND EVIL, but I do. It's hard to believe that one can get so caught up with a book about a city one has only seen in pictures.
Donna Agnelly
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 5 Stars
Welcome back, Myron Bolitar. Any Harlan Coben book is a treat and this one is no exception! I have recommended Coben's books to everyone I talk to who is a book fan --- they have all loved his books. And he's great to hear in person!
Jane (janebeatty92083@yahoo.com)
Dead Watch by John Sanford
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a fantastic author. I suggest reading Sandford's books to anyone who hasn't --- they keep you hooked from beginning to end.
Donna Agnelly
Black Fly Season by Giles Blunt
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the third book by Giles Blund featuring John Cardinal --- each gets better. Start with the first book, FORTY WORDS FOR SORROW, and continue on. You won't be disappointed.
Robin Casaus
Ghostwritten by David Mitchell
Rating: 5 Stars
Entertaining and thought provoking. He ties 10 stories together in different parts of the world.
Rita (ratlerf@yahoo.com)
At Risk by Patricia Cornwell
Rating: 2 Stars
I've read all of her books, but I was disappointed with this one. Towards the end, there was no suspense left and no reason, really, to continue, but I did. I just couldn't believe this book could leave me flat in the end.
L. Gettle (lgettle@iserv.net)
Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn
Rating: 5 Stars
If you love plenty of action and a terrific hero, this book is for you.
Vicki Kennedy
The Templar's Penance by Michael Jecks
Rating: 5 Stars
Jecks kept me turning the pages. It's one of his better novels that I have read. Cute little twist at the end.
Farrah (froybiskie@aol.com)
Dark Side of the Moon by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Rating: 5 Stars
Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark-Hunter series is fantastic, and DARK SIDE OF THE MOON is a perfect addition. The hero and heroine have a rapport that cannot be beat, and the secondary characters add such richness to the entire plot. This one is a don't miss for anyone who loves a great paranormal.
Linda
Susannah's Garden by Debbie Macomber
Rating: 5 Stars
I am truly enjoying this book. It is the story of a woman who has to deal with the failing health of her mother after her father's death. She goes back to her childhood home and starts to find answers to questions about an old boyfriend's disappearance and the death of her brother.
Linda
Two Harbors by Kate Benson
Rating: 3 Stars
This is an interesting story but a little hard to follow. It's about a woman whose mother walked out on her and now that her boyfriend is gone, she goes looking for answers. It switches between present day, the past, and scenes out of a movie she liked. You have to pay attention to where and when you are.
Kay
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 4 Stars
Another Harlan Coben page-turner!!
Linda
Under Cover of Darkness by James Grippando
Rating: 4 Stars
Good book. A man's wife disappears and there is a serial killer murdering women who look like his wife. Is she the next victim or an accomplice?
Linda M
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark
Rating: 5 Stars
Very interesting. I can't wait to see how it ends. Twin girls are kidnapped --- one is returned and the other one isn't. This also describes the special connection between twins.
Lisa J.Y.
The Sign of the Book by John Dunning
Rating: 5 Stars
A suspensful and thrilling mystery. I loved it! This is the first book that I have read by John Dunning. I can hardly wait to read his other books. I highly recommend this terrific read!
Dodalodle from Beautiful British Columbia (dglg@telus.net)
The Island by Heather Graham
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great romantic suspense read by Heather Graham with this story taking place on a tropical island off the Florida coast. Beth Anderson comes across a human skull buried on the beach and thus starts the story and how she gets involed trying to solve the mystery.
Kendra (KendraPT@aol.com)
Candles Burning by Tabitha King and Michael McDowell
Rating: 4 Stars
I'm still reading this book but it has me thoroughly engrossed. Something mysterious is going on, and it seems to be witchcraft, but it's not totally clear. This book keeps you guessing and interested because you just KNOW something big is going to happen, and somehow it has to do with Callie Dakin. I love Tabitha King's writing and have looked forward to a book from her for way too long. She finished this book for/with her friend who passed away before it was finished. This is a great read that keeps me hanging, waiting for the shoe to drop.
Book Lover
Veronika Decides to Die by Paulo Coelho
Rating: 1 Stars
I didn't enjoy this book that much. I can't really say what I didn't like about it without giving away the ending. It was just very depressing to me. If you are thinking of reading this book, thinking this will be a story about a girl named Veronika who's in a mental hosptial, then I don't suggest it. The author strayed back and forth with the characters and did NOT settle with Veronika's character for the entire story. It had a predictable ending, and if anyone was surprised by it, then they haven't read many books.
Book Lover
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this book! Non-stop action! I love the way Dan Brown writes!
jm
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a great story, suspenseful.
Book Lover
The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown
Rating: 5 Stars
Another great book! Loved it!
Nancy H.
Carved In Bone by Jefferson Bass
Rating: 4 Stars
A woman's corpse is found in a cave in the mountains of Tennessee. Its been there for 30 years and has been transformed by the cave's chemistry into a near-perfect mummy. The discovery reopens old wounds and rekindles feuds dating back decades. Renowned anthropologist Bill Brockton looks into the case, but is derailed by an uncooperative sheriff and his nitwit deputy. It as interesting characters and lots of forensic detail. An exciting read.
Patricia Schrot
The Turn of the Screw by Henry James
Rating: 4 Stars
I read this oldie for a discussion group. As a lover of mystery and thrillers, I found this one a clear-cut case of the Governess being 'unbalanced' and not the ghost story that some have debated --- but that was just my opinion.
Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net)
The Face of Deception by Iris Johansen
Rating: 4 Stars
This fast-paced political thriller with forensic sculptor, Eve Duncan, was both entertaining and thought-provoking, AND very hard to put down. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.
Melissa
Acts of Faith by Philip Caputo
Rating: 5 Stars
This is one of the best adventure novels I have ever read. It is long but the painstaking detail is worth it.
Sandra F.
The Sacred Cut by David Hewson
Rating: 5 Stars
This book, set in Rome, is the third installment in this series. The plots are always great in that they combine history, religion, and present-day Roman police procedures. I look forward to each new book and they do not come fast enough.
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