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Juanita
Roots by Alex Haley
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this book. I watched the miniseries way back in the 70s, and I've read the book at least twice through the years. I needed a good "grabbing" book, so I pulled this one off the shelf. I wish I had time to read it nonstop!
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
House of Meetings by Martin Amis
Rating: 5 Stars
For those of us that loved Amis's YELLOW DOG, EXPERIENCE, NIGHT TRAIN and LONDON FIELDS, don't miss his latest and best, HOUSE OF MEETINGS!
Bonnie
The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 4 Stars
Picoult has a wonderful way with family dynamics. She makes you see events and relationships in new and thought-provoking ways. This, like all her books, is entertaining, very readable, well-written and sure to inspire great discussions in a book club.
M. Blitz
Wizard's First Rule by Terry Goodkind
Rating: 4 Stars
A great book/series to start on to love Fantasy/Sci-Fi. You meet Richard, a young man who saves a lady being followed by a squad of killers. This begins the full adventure of the new start to his life. A must read.
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Our Endangered Values by Jimmy Carter
Rating: 3 Stars
President Carter throws out many important ideas about abortion, war, stem cell research, peace, religion, government, and others. I felt that many of the ideas were lost in the extensive vocabulary --- a dictionary is essential to complete the book.
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
The Handmaid and the Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg
Rating: 4 Stars
A short novel about the relationship between Joseph and Mary, and the birth of Jesus. The book centers on Mary's strong faith, but shows Joseph doubtful of the divine intervention in Mary's pregnancy. The book gives the reader a sense of Joseph's feelings. If that happened now, would a present-day Joseph be as accepting?
Judy O.
The Perfect Fake by Barbara Parker
Rating: 4 Stars
Tom Fairchild is on probation from jail, convicted of burglary. He gets involved in forging an old, very valuable map, and ends up in Italy, where he is working on the job. There are bad people trying to stop him, but he has the help of the daughter of the man for whom he is working. At home in Miami, his probation officer is looking for him with the intention of putting him back into jail. He doesn't have much time. This is a compelling read from an author who is new to me. I recommend it.
Rachael
How I Write by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a great book to get some insight into how Janet Evanovich came up with all her characters in her best-selling series.
Joel
The Messenger by Daniel Silva
Rating: 5 Stars
Great! This book has an excellent plot with realistic and well-portrayed characters.
Sharon Bryan
Just Between Us by Cathy Kelly
Rating: 5 Stars
A lovely and well-written novel about friends and how their lives intersect.
Louise Pledge
The Maze by Catherine Coulter
Rating: 5 Stars
Ms. Coulter's FBI Thriller series is a must-read! THE MAZE was no exception. Having already read a couple further down the line, it was fun to get Sherlock's introduction and learn how she became involved with Dollon Savich.
Louise Pledge
Cape May Court House by Lawrence Schiller
Rating: 4 Stars
This is the first I've read by investigative journalist, Schiller. Perhaps it was because there were too many technicalities in the case, but I believe Ann Rule to be much more interesting. Nevertheless, I want to finish this and learn the final outcome. When Tracy Thomas died, supposedly of an auto accident, was it really the Ford Company's faulty airbags, or was there more involved in the story?
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
A Traitor To Memory by Elizabeth George
Rating: 5 Stars
This 11th installment in the Havers-Lynley series is another masterpiece by Elizabeth George. I have never read another book of the same quality as hers. They are ingenious. A TRAITOR TO MEMORY is about a family torn apart by lies and murder. There was so much to this book. Yes, I was a bit intimidated by the 1,000-page paperback. But, it was worth the read and I am looking forward to the next one.
Brian Kiplinger lll
Wireless in the Fabric of Time by E. I. Johnson
Rating: 5 Stars
WIRELESS IN THE FABRIC OF TIME is an extraordinary, brilliant book. The protagonist is an intelligent, assertive typical college student. Von Muir Carmichael lives and breathes with his electronic devices, games, fraternity friends and parties. His world revolves around them, including his thirty-five pound cat, and ever-grouchy dog. His attitudes toward his love life, family, and the law are above average compared to a typical college guy. He is ready to be on his own after graduation to make his mark on the real world. Unfortunately, something else is meant to happen. You'll need to buy the book and find out…
My buddies and I have all the reasons why we decided the book is fun and such a great novel. It’s funny, deeply moving, and you‘ll love the cliff-hanger. I felt I was there with Von while reading the book. It’s clear that the author intended to write a book that will remain one of the greatest works of fiction of all time.
This is a magnificent novel. Mr. Johnson is a brilliant new writer. His characters are fascinating, and my friends and I enjoyed them. The mystery about this transcendent novel only deepens the impact of the book!
What is so exceptionally noteworthy about WIRELESS is that it's so totally different from its creative quality. The author puts an over-the-top astounding combination of fantasy, olden-days and storytelling. This is one of those unique books that demands to be read.
Sandra F.
A Dilly of a Death by Susan Wittig Albert
Rating: 4 Stars
For readers who like themes in their mysteries, this is a great book. China Bayles, who lives in Texas and had a shop selling herbs, gets involved in the murder of the Pickle Queen. This was lots of fun to read, and included lots of information on dill, complete with recipes.
Genie (geniedances@yahoo.com)
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards
Rating: 4 Stars
A touching, worthwhile read. Young Dr. David Henry and his wife, Norah, are expecting their first child. When Norah goes into labor during a snowstorm, Dr. Henry delivers the fraternal twins. One is a healthy boy, the other, a girl, is obviously a Downs Syndrome baby. In an instant, he makes a decision to tell his wife that their daughter was still born, then asks the attending nurse to take the child to a "home". Instead, the nurse leaves town, taking the baby to raise as her own. Living with this secret not only causes David grief, but his actions affect the lives of everyone in two families. While David missed out on the heartaches of dealing with this "special" child, he also missed out on the joys of watching her successes.
Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net)
The Runaway by Terry Kay
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a wonderful novel set in the Deep South in 1949. It has elements of THE ADVENTURES OF HUCKLEBERRY FINN and TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD, which makes it very special. I look forward to reading all of Terry Kay's works.
Dawn (littleluci@hotmail.com)
Hard Work: Success Made Easy by Michael Crews
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a really great book for people of all ages to read and see how good will and hard work actually pay off. There is no quick-fix to getting rich quick, only good solid work ethic. Crews also give 16 steps to do-it-yourself success. It's pretty interesting. Michael Crews is a successful real estate developer in San Diego and is growing nationally, so he is a credible source. The book is available at Amazon.com and/or Barnes and Noble, and some other online sites if you do a search for it.
C. Lee
Falling Through the Earth by Danielle Trussoni
Rating: 4 Stars
This moving memoir recounts the author's childhood with her Vietnam-vet father, a troubled, removed alcoholic. This is for readers who enjoyed THE GLASS CASTLE.
Sandra F.
The Celtic Riddle by Lyn Hamilton
Rating: 4 Stars
A great book featuring a Canadian antiques dealer visiting Ireland who gets caught up in a mystery surrounding ancient Irish myths. A good read.
Sally B., San Antonio TX
City of Bones by Michael Connelly
Rating: 3 Stars
Unabridged audiobook read by Peter Jay Fernandez. The reader was good. Detective Bosch tries to solve the 25-year- old murder of a 12-year-old boy. The suspects switched back and forth a little too much.
James T.
Redemption by Wayne Sharrocks
Rating: 4 Stars
A disturbing, emotional, but thought-provoking thriller that is a real page turner.
It has a contemporary feel and offers real insight to the underbelly of London life.
Sunny
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote
Rating: 5 Stars
I wish there were a million stars, as that's how I'd rate this incredible book. I don't know how I've gone my whole life without reading this, but I'm so glad I finally did.
Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com)
The Book of Names by Jill Gregory and Karen Tintori
Rating: 4 Stars
I enjoyed this book, which pulled me in and moved very fast. My only question is did they lose some chapters? Stacy was grabbed by the bad guys, and the next thing you know, the good guy Hawk has her. But nowhere in the book do they say how this happens. A little blurb about it would be good. I sort of looked back and that part of it just made me stop. Besides that, everything flowed well.
Fran
Enchanted, Inc. by Shanna Swendson
Rating: 3 Stars
Chick lit with a twist of fantasy! I loved every page! I would recommend this as a fun read for all.
Tricia B.
My Nerdy Valentine by Vicki Lewis Thompson
Rating: 4 Stars
A cute story from the Nerd series. I got this book and just fell in love with it. It has a lot of steamy parts as well as some suspense. It's great!
Ginny (VCHL819@aol.com)
The Ravenscar Dynasty by Barbara Taylor Bradford
Rating: 2 Stars
Two stars for two-thirds of a relatively readable book. It's the romance historical genre with foreshadowing that aways annoys me. It was pretty good for the most part. The characters seemed to be rather well developed and the plot was engaging, but then when the third section began, I had the impression that the publisher said the manuscript had too many pages, or the author was late with a deadline, and the book rushed to an ending. It became more like Danielle Steel --- the characters lost their humanity, the action moved in fast forward, much was assumed, and I was sorely tempted not to finish it. I did, though, hoping the earlier style would return. It didn't.
Kay Keller
The Machiavelli Covenant by Allan Folsom
Rating: 4 Stars
The President of the United States is AWOL, and is hiding from the Secret Service, FBI, CIA, etc. This book is a good suspense/thriller and is hard to put down.
Nunu In Niagara
Shadow Dance by Julie Garwood
Rating: 3 Stars
I found this book slow to start, without ever picking up too much speed. It is the continuation of the Buchanan and MacKenna rivalry. All I can say is that it was readable. Not a page turner.
Christy (hawkes@citlink.net)
Borrow Trouble by Mary Monroe and Victor McGlothin
Rating: 4 Stars
Both of these stories about loss and redemption are enjoyable and engrossing. The characters and their struggles will leave you thinking about them long after you finish the book.
Beryle
Sexual Transgressions: A Chain of Events by Miranda Ifedigbo
Rating: 4 Stars
Great debut fiction novel. Expect the unexpected; be prepared to be shocked. One thing that makes this one unique is that there is a music cd included with the book; the songs are written and performed by the author and are written into the storyline of the book!
Felita Iverson
Sexual Transgressions....A Chain of Events by Miranda Ifedigbo
Rating: 4 Stars
I really enjoyed this book. As you read the first few chapters, one would assume that she gave up the storyline too early; but, hold on --- she throws you a curve ball and pow! Just when you think nothing else could happen, she leaves you speechless. The music cd is an added touch that allows you to feel you are actually there in some of the chapters.
I have recommended this new novel to others and they, too, have expressed how much this book kept them intrigued.
Corinna
Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden
Rating: 3 Stars
I finally finished this book. I thought it was written beautifully, and that the description and attention to detail was amazing (yet not too much that it was boring).
There were a few things that disappointed me, though, so I am giving it 3 stars. Overall, though, it was a great story! Time to watch the movie!
Lisa
About Alice by Calvin Trillin
Rating: 5 Stars
I was very moved by Calvin's writing and his love for his late wife. I also read and enjoyed Joan Didion's memoir about her late husband, THE YEAR OF MAGICAL THINKING, and felt it was nice to hear a male's perspective of losing a spouse. ABOUT ALICE is a very quick read and I highly recommend everyone experience it.
Ricki (rickimc@aol.com)
The Dreamwalker's Child by Steve Voake
Rating: 1 Stars
I could not get into this book. There seemed to be some major plot holes and the title did not really fit the book because while Sam was the Dreamwalker's Child, it never really explained why his mother was the Dreamwalker.
Lindy
Temptress by Lisa Jackson
Rating: 5 Stars
I am a lover of early historical romance as well as myteries, and in this book, I got both.
In the 1200s, there is a fire at Wybren Castle. Everyone inside dies, except one son who is seen running away and is thought to have set the fire.
Lady Morwenna of Calon, who was once engaged to a son of Wybren, lives in the next castle. An unconscious stranger is found outside the gate, nearly beaten to death, and so mauled that his identity is unknown; but, he wears the crest ring of Wybren. He is taken in and cared for. When he awakens weeks later, he realizes that someone wants him dead. Then, the people in the castle start to die....
I always try to guess who did it, I was wrong in this one.
Sandra F.
A Touch of Mortality by Ann Granger
Rating: 4 Stars
Ann Granger has written a series of English mysteries featuring Markby and Mitchell. These books are comfortable, readable novels in the tradition of English countryside mysteries.
Sandy Haber
Ravenscar Dynasty by Barbara Taylor Bradford
Rating: 2 Stars
This is an interesting story, along the lines of her last family story about Emma Harte. However, I don't feel that it's written as well. Maybe it's because the last series was written as separate books and this is one very large story, but there seems to be a lot of redundancy.
Josephine Maksymiak
Capital Crimes by Jonathan & Faye Kellerman
Rating: 5 Stars
This husband-and-wife team are the best together and just as great when they write on their own. They capture your interest and hold it until the last page of the book.
Lindy
After Caroline by Kay Hooper
Rating: 5 Stars
After a near-fatal accident leaves Joanna Flynn with terrible nightmares, she becomes even more alarmed when two strangers call her Caroline. the name of a woman who died on the day of Joanna's accident.
The doctors told her there would be no lasting effects, they were wrong... the dreams started.
She found the obit for Caroline and traveled 3000 miles across the country to find the answer.
Lindy
Cold Paradise by Stuart Woods
Rating: 4 Stars
COLD PARADISE is a Stone Barrington novel, with his ex, Arrington, making yet another visit to add a little romance.
Millionaire Thad Shames meets the woman of his dreams at a party. Stone takes the case and goes to Palm Beach, FL to find her. He discovers, unfortunately, that she was a client of his in the past.
Michelle Miller (miller4plusmore@bellsouth.net)
Sarum: The Novel of England by Edward Rutherfurd
Rating: 5 Stars
This is actually my second Edward Rutherfurd novel. I read LONDON several years ago, which lead me to obtain any books by him that I could find. SARUM is an excellent historical novel depicting the population what is now Salisbury in England, from prehistoric times to the present. The characters and their storylines are rich and engaging. If you love what I call "authentic" historical novels, then I highly recommend this book, and any others by Rutherford.
Tonya Turner
Sexual Transgressions: A Chain of Events by Miranda Ifedigbo
Rating: 5 Stars
An excellent book that kept you interested and had you looking to see what happened next. Hey, I am ready for a part 2.
Frances Robson
The Splitting Storm by Rene Gutteridge
Rating: 5 Stars
I was on edge throughout the entire book. I just wanted to read the last page! I didn't, but will read more of her books.
Frances
The Sinner by Tess Gerritsen
Rating: 4 Stars
A good mystery with women as main characters. A real page turner.
Mike Crumpton (macrumpton@aol.com)
Sunday's Child by Tom E. Lewis
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a local NC author, although I got his book at B&N. It's the story of an outer banks rescue team and a child brought unexpectedly into their lives. If you've ever vacationed on North Carolina's Outer Banks, this book gives a great historical view of how this area was back in the 1920s.
Christy
Blind Submission by Debra Ginsberg
Rating: 3 Stars
I found this to be too much like THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA, except it takes place in the book industry, not fashion world. It wasn't that bad, since I did read it. Ginsberg writes well, but I just didn't care for the storyline.
Christy
Ella in Europe by Michael Konik
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this book! I'm a huge dog lover, and I feel like my dog should be allowed to go into stores, restaurants, etc. Michael, the author, takes his dog on a trip to Europe for being such a great dog.
It's a must read!
Jackie
The Terror by Dan Simmons
Rating: 4 Stars
An excellent read about 2 ships stuck in packed ice while trying to find the Northwest Passage through the Artic Circle. It gave me the shivers while reading, a bit from the supernatural elements and also from the mere idea of being in -100 weather.
Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com)
Sala's Gift by Ann Kirschner
Rating: 5 Stars
The author's mother survived five years in the Nazi war camps and saved letters and cards she got from friends and family. The author includes these along with the history of what was going on at the time. Together with the photos, this is just a book you have to read. I cant put it into words. It makes you proud to live where we do, and not have to worry about something that would happen to us.
Thomas Barrington
The Cold Moon by Jeffery Deaver
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a great read with lots of twists and turns that keep you guessing at all times.
Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com)
Rise and Shine by Anna Quindlen
Rating: 4 Stars
A good book about two sisters on opposite ends of the economic spectrum, and how their lives are reversed. This was a good read, though the characters could have been fleshed out more.
dustbunnymom
Whiskey Sour by J. A. Konrath
Rating: 3 Stars
Female police lieutenant Jack Daniels is on the hunt for a gruesome serial killer. Stripped of its graphic violence, I found the story likeable, but charming (though somewhat predictable) in an offbeat way. I would like to see the author turn one way or the other: keep the fun, quirky, more light-hearted manner or go full-fledged evil killer. Either way, I would have liked the book more.
Harriet Insler (brninbk@comcast.net)
A Three Dog Life by Abigail Thomas
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a beautifully written, tragic, true story about Abigail Thomas and her husband, Rich. Rich was hit by a car in Manhattan while running after their dog; his brain shattered. This is not written to ask for sympathy. Mrs. Thomas' description of her and Rich's life after the accident is a must read. I highly recommend this wonderful story.
T. Thomas
Side Effects by Amy Goldman Koss
Rating: 4 Stars
A YA novel about a teenager who is fighting cancer. A good read.
T. Thomas (toythomas@tx.rr.com)
The Crimson Portrait by Jodi Shields
Rating: 3 Stars
Not a stright-forward story, more mood.
I'd like to see what another author would have done with the story.
Susan P.
The Interpretation of Murder by Jed Rubenfeld
Rating: 4 Stars
So far, the book is a little slow. It involves Dr. Freud and murders in 1909 in New York City. The history of that time period is interesting and tempo of the story seems to be picking up.
Krishna (lane1088@yahoo.com)
The Inside Ring by Michael Lawson
Rating: 3 Stars
This was a good quick read. I liked the premise, that the inside ring which protects the president was compromised by someone who thought he was doing the right thing. The bad guys are well fleshed out, as is the hero, who is almost an antihero. The story moved quickly, and was plotted well. This was the first book I've read by this author, and I might give his other stuff a try.
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Death of a Gossip by M. C. Beaton
Rating: 3 Stars
A novel set in the Scottish Highlands with a sense of mystery and foreboding. It's a short, sweet mystery with no graphic detail of the crime, and is very short on characterization and setting. It takes a look at the secrets that everyone hides, and what some will do to prevent the truth from surfacing.
Sally B., San Antonio TX
Back To The Bedroom by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 2 Stars
2.5 stars. A single female musician meets the man next door. BACK TO THE BEDROOM is a cute little romance, but no great literary feat.
cjlineberry
March by Geraldine Brooks
Rating: 5 Stars
Geraldine Brooks succeeds in picking up where Louisa May Alcott's LITTLE WOMEN left us. Mrs. March is home with her daughters while Mr. March pens a beautiful depiction of the Southern sky, choosing his words carefully, as to not alarm them of the reality. Trials of the time have truly exhausted him.
With poetic language, Brooks paints the canvas that will forever be the memory of Mr. March. During his year-long service with the Union Army, he is reunited with a love from his past. Over time, his beliefs are tested to the extreme. He finds that under the circumstances, he is not the person he thought himself to be. Mr. March wakes up in a makeshift hospital, being tended to by his wife, while faces of the dead and memories of recent events continue to haunt his dreams. Blame is all consuming as he struggles with self- forgiveness. Mrs. March must come to terms with the her husband's betrail; as we all know, her daughter becomes gravely ill, and she must return home.
Brooks weaves a story of love, understanding, and forgiveness through shared devastations. This is a story within a story, in which a husband and wife find themselves changed forever by the very strong beliefs they once thought would never be shaken.
I plan to read MARCH again over the summer.
Bonnie Levy
Cross by James Patterson
Rating: 4 Stars
Another great work by author James Patterson. I read it very quickly and thoroughly enjoyed it!
Krishna (lane1088@yahoo.com)
Empire by Orson Scott Card
Rating: 3 Stars
The story takes place in a future about 10-15 years from now. There isn't a lot of sci-fic stuff going on, but more of a continuation of the societal/political changes. A new civil war is fought between blue states and red states, the conservatives vs. the liberals. The character development was really good until you get to towards the middle or just past it. I liked the concept and the ideas that Card brought up, but he didn't flesh things out more. It was kind of superficial.
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Echo Park by Michael Connelly
Rating: 5 Stars
A very well-written mystery set in California about a 13-year-old unsolved murder, the people involved, and the cover up. I loved the twists and turns, as well as the final verdict.
Sandy
For One More Day by Mitch Albom
Rating: 5 Stars
Albom's best yet! When Chick Benetto awakens from a car accident and finds his mother in the house where he grew up, he really starts to wonder if he is crazy. Then, through his mother's ghost, he finally begins to learn the true story of his childhood.
Krishna (lane1088@yahoo.com)
The Messenger by Daniel Silva
Rating: 5 Stars
All I can say is wow!! I liked this book so much that I didn't want to finish it --- I read just a few pages at a time so that I could enjoy it for a longer time. The plotting was great, and the pace was well balanced between setting up the action and the action taking place. The book is the most recent in the Gabriel Allon series and is one of the best.
Mary Ann
The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig
Rating: 4 Stars
Taking place in 1909, Montana, THE WHISTLING SEASON is about a family who lost their mother/wife about a year before. Their father places an ad for a housekeeper, which is answered by a woman who "can't cook, won't bite." This is a good read full of lots of suprises.
Jerry Vick (icansaveumoney@aol.com)
To Die For by Linda Howard
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the first book of Linda's I have read. It is great fun, the characters are awesome and the plot keeps me reading late into the night.
Mary
Brother Odd by Dean Koontz
Rating: 4 Stars
BROTHER ODD was not quite as well written as the first 2 in the series, it was almost too verbose at times. But after finishing it, the ending became typical Koontz and Odd Thomas.
Ry
Saving Fish From Drowning by Amy Tan
Rating: 3 Stars
This book was a study of people. It was a little repetitive at times.
Peggy C. (PTCLAYTON2@AOL.COM)
The Hot Flash Club Chills Out by Nancy Thayer
Rating: 4 Stars
I started this book last night and have already read 76 pages. So far, each character has her own drama to deal with, which are very easy to relate to, as we all have a little drama in our lives. This is an easy read, and their drama is far more interesting...
Lu
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
Rating: 5 Stars
You don't realize how powerful this book is until you get to the end. I couldn't put it down. Basically, it's the story of a friendship between two 8-year-old boys --- one in a concentration camp, and the other on the outside of the fence.
L. Hann
Fast Food Nation by Eric Schlosser
Rating: 4 Stars
This is an interesting look at the Fast Food industry --- not just the food itself, but the whole process, right down to the ranchers who raise the cattle. This book shows you the effects that fast food has on our nation. It is a real eye opener.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
In the Company of the Courtesan by Sarah Dunant
Rating: 3 Stars
Attention Historical Fiction lovers!
This novel is a "delicious" story about love, loyalty, jealousy, redemption, and more...set in Renaissance Italy!
Lu
I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron
Rating: 4 Stars
I found myself laughing out loud. This is a very funny look at women growing older.
L. Hann
Flyboys by James Bradley
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a true story of courage. FLYBOYS reveals the experiences of the men who flew planes during World War II. They where all very brave, as is anyone who serves in a war. Bradley has a way of taking you back in history. This is a read for everyone.
Mary Angela Young
The Secret Supper by Javier Sierra
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a pretty good book. It's sort of along the same lines of THE DA VINCI CODE, but is set back in the actual time of Da Vinci when he was painting the Last Supper.
Renee (tfranzen2124@comcast.net)
Quite A Year for Plums by Bailey White
Rating: 4 Stars
If you listen to Bailey White's stories on NPR, you'll hear her voice reading this quirky but engaging story. (Must be read with a southern drawl).
Pattie Berryhill (pattiberr@aol.com)
Lisey's Story by Stephen King
Rating: 1 Stars
This was a long boring novel. I kept thinking it had to get better because, after all, this was Stephen King, so I finished it. I was disappointed --- reading this was a waste of my time.
Brenda Smith (bsmith@liongate.net)
Across the High Lonesome by James McNay Brumfield
Rating: 5 Stars
I picked this up after seeing someone else recommend it here. Glad I did! This well-told story about the modern west has a little bit of everything --- drama, action, adventure, romance and a gritty true-to-life style that can only come from the truth. Highly recommended!
Debbie
The Exile by Richard North Patterson
Rating: 5 Stars
Richard North Patterson's newest novel follows the tradition of his previous books --- it's a great read with believable characters that is well researched, and interesting. I always learn something new when I read his books.
Karen Terry (mi3sons@mchsi.com)
Killer Dreams by Iris Johansen
Rating: 5 Stars
It is a very exciting book that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It is about Sophie Dunston, who invents this drug called REM-4. It is stolen by her boss, Sanborne, who uses it to make zombies out of ex-military men so they can obey his every command. Matt Royd, one of the men on REM-4, wants to kill her. Instead, she is attacked at her home by one of Sanborne's men and is saved by Royd. Sophie and Royd must learn to trust each other when they go after Sanborne and destroy REM-4, before he uses it to rule the world.
Barbara
Leap of Faith: Memoirs of an Unexpected Life by Queen Noor
Rating: 5 Stars
What a fantastic woman!!! An American, Lisa Halaby, is in the right place at the right time by fate. She meets Jordan's King Hussein, and eventually, they marry. This is her story in her own words, which is fabulous and well written. I can't put it down and highly recommend it to everyone. As an American in the Middle East who becomes a Queen, she describes her emotions and experiences through all the political crises. It's the best.
Lora
Flashback by Nevada Barr
Rating: 4 Stars
I have been reading Nevada Barr's Anna Pigeon series, and I've become more attached to the character as I continue. FLASHBACK is a novel set at Dry Tortugas National Park and weaves together a story of Anna's current life with her family's involvement in the Civil War. The books keep getting better as Barr defines the character and continues to highlight the National Park System.
Susan Curtis
Righteous Men by Sam Bourne
Rating: 5 Stars
I just finished reading this one. It's a great book. I didn't want to stop and I had to know what would happen next. The premise is that there has to be 36 righteous people, but there a some fanatics who want to kill all of them to end the world for the coming of the messiah. There is plenty of action and Jewish mysticm. I don't like to compare, but it's like a "Jewish DA VINCI CODE."
Julie Towson
Most Wanted by Michele Martinez
Rating: 4 Stars
A faced-paced and fun murder mystery.
Jeremiah F Bulger
The Hunters by W.E.B. Griffin
Rating: 5 Stars
Once you read Griffin's writing, you're hooked. Period. This is the third installment in his latest new Presidential Agent series that mirrors today's news.
Joni Murphy (joanie7560@aol.com)
Hidden Prey by John Sandford
Rating: 5 Stars
Lucas Davenport is the best, but add Russian spies from the Cold War, and a setting in Minnesota and you have a read that will keep you up all night long.
Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com)
Stormbreaker by Anthony Horowitz
Rating: 4 Stars
An excellent book for middle school boys to read. There is lots of action, and a chance that this could actually happen. The "hero" is a 14-year-old boy.
Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com)
The Magdalene Scrolls by Barbara Wood
Rating: 4 Stars
A very early Barbara Wood book. Written in 1978, it is about Scrolls found in Israel which were written in 70 C.E. and have had a tremendous effect upon the translater. The book is a bit slow in parts, but overall, it's an excellent read.
Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com)
The Husband by Dean Koontz
Rating: 4 Stars
This is very different from Koontz's other books. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Of course, I have liked all of his novels. The ending came a bit too quickly, but I'm sure it was the only ending that could be in one of his books.
Elizabeth Lanoix
The Brotherhoood of the Holy Shroud by Julia Navarro
Rating: 5 Stars
Great book. I could not put it down.
Mickey
The Cat Who Played Post Office by Lilian Jackson Braun
Rating: 4 Stars
As usual, Koko and Yum Yum --- two lovable Siamese cats --- help Qwilleran solve a murder, even before it happens!! This book is everything I've come to expect from the author, and I enjoyed it very much.
E. Q. Knight (eqkmath@gmail.com)
Burger's Daughter by Nadine Gordimer
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a coming-of-age story that takes place in South Africa. It is compelling and mesmerizing, as well as politically and socially important. The language of Gordimer is that of poetic prose. I should have read it long ago! It is a delight!
Jen
True Evil by Greg Iles
Rating: 5 Stars
TRUE EVIL is another winner in the thriller department for Iles. His books are page turners and this one does not disappoint.
Ginny (VCHL819@aol.com)
Open and Shut by David Rosenfelt
Rating: 5 Stars
This legal mystery has more twists than you'd think possible, and just when you think you've figured it out, Rosenfelt throws out another tease. OPEN AND SHUT is a great read with surprise ending. This is his first book and he'll be on my watch-for-a-new-one list.
Ginny (VCHL819@aol.com)
Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 2 Stars
It's nice to see Stephanie back, and although this is much better than Evanovich's two NASCAR books that preceeded it, it's a pretty slim volume (164 pages) with big type. You'll be entertained, but this one would be at the bottom of my list for this author. I was disappointed.
Coral Harrison
Blind Submission by Debra Ginsberg
Rating: 5 Stars
Ginsberg's first novel is a good one. It lives up to the quality of writing she established in WAITING: CONFESSIONS OF A WAITRESS. BLIND SUBMISSION is about getting books published. It describes the dog-eat-dog business, while also telling a good love story.
Lindsey (bsb_chick76247@yahoo.com)
Witness in Death by J. D. Robb
Rating: 3 Stars
I haven't read the whole thing yet, but as usual with the In Death series, I am really intrigued to find out who the killer is this time. I really love this series and I am constantly rooting for Lieutenant Eve Dallas to kick some major butt...she has yet to disappoint.
Mary Ellen Rennie
Mad River Road by Joy Fielding
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a good page turner that was very suspenseful and full of twists and turns. The characters in the book were the most interesting.
DD
Nature Girl by Carl Hiaasen
Rating: 4 Stars
NATURE GIRL is another funny romp through the islands of Florida with this fabulously hilarious author's cast of misfits and malcontents. He creates the wackiest characters, some of whom are endearing and some you want to choke! I loved it!
Brenda Tucker (rango1971@yahoo.com)
Protector by Laurel Dewey
Rating: 5 Stars
Detective Jane Perry is guarding Emily, a 9 year old who was present when her parents were murdered. What Perry must do for the girl is very interesting.
Donna Tanner
Blood and Circumstance by Frank Turner Hollon
Rating: 5 Stars
Excellent book!
Christy (hawkes@citlink.net)
Anonymity by Margie Gosa Shivers
Rating: 3 Stars
This debut suspense novel by Ms. Shivers was a great read. I was hooked from the very beginning.
Akshay (booklover_aki@yahoo.com)
Crispin: The Cross of Lead by Avi
Rating: 5 Stars
CRISPIN was an awesome book. It was full of really good twists and turns, and was a masterpiece of humor and suspense. It had a lot of moral lessons. Everyone who likes suspense and mystery will love it for sure.
The book was about a boy named Crispin who experienced a lot of troubles, and even has a bounty on his head. But, he is courageous and overcomes all the obstacles in his life.
Fred
Sicilian Sisters by Marianna
Rating: 5 Stars
An engaging cast of characters with a dash of historical romances in the 15th and 20th century. Pirates challenge and rule the people on sea and land.
Susan Curtis
The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald
Rating: 4 Stars
I thought this book would be very intimidating since it's considered a contemporary classic, but I am just on page 25 and I like it already. Some of the words and phrases are written in the style of that era, and are not said like that today, but so far, I am still loving it.
When Callaway meets his cousin and in-law, I can just picture the clothes, the furniture, and the wrap-around porch as I am reading it. I hope it doesn't disappoint.
Monica J
The Boleyn Inheritance by Philippa Gregory
Rating: 5 Stars
Gregory's best book yet, told from three points of view: Anne of Cleves, Catherine Howard and Jane Boleyn. Extremely interesting and informative, this book looks like it would take a long time to read, but it is difficult to put down and is surprisingly quick. It is a must read.
Caroline Shank
Lisey's Story by Stephen King
Rating: 5 Stars
I believe it is every bit as good as THE STAND, albeit a totally different style of book. It describes the huge impact of the loss of a loved spouse and the exploration of cause and effect.
Jeff Haddow
The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama
Rating: 4 Stars
Poilitical books are usually so boring or canned to the point of terminal predictability. This one is smart, incisive, and prescient. If you want to see where we can go as a nation, check it out.
Mary Ward
Skylight Confessions by Alice Hoffman
Rating: 5 Stars
This books was so beautifully written. It was lyrical even in its tragedies. I felt such sadness in every page. I love how Ms. Hoffman can elicit all your feelings when you read her books. I highly recommend this one.
Monica J
The History of Love by Nicole Krauss
Rating: 4 Stars
This book was hard to follow at the beginning but came together nicely at the end. It is told from several points of view. Each character is distinct and interesting. The book is very thought provoking and makes you think about choices and relationships.
Janice
The Queen's Fool by Philippa Gregory
Rating: 5 Stars
This book picks up where THE OTHER BOLEYN GIRL leaves off. A must read for Philippa Gregory fans!
Sandy
Death Angel by Martha Powers
Rating: 4 Stars
Very good. Kate and Richard Warner have a quiet life until one afternoon, their daughter becomes a victim of a heinous crime. Richard is the prime suspect, and Kate must find the true murderer to clear his name.
Janice
For One More Day by Mitch Albom
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is for anyone who has ever lost someone and wished that they could have 'one more day' with them --- to resolve open issues, tell them something, etc. This is a must read. It had me in tears.
Karen
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Rating: 4 Stars
A true story of a nomadic alcoholic family, the effects of these on their four children, and how they turned out as adults. It's easy to read and imagine the living conditions and feelings of each family member.
Bonnie
The Darling by Russell Banks
Rating: 4 Stars
This novel took 30 or 40 pages to get into, but then it just took off from there. I was so intrigued by THE DARLING that I went and bought 2 more of Banks's novels.
Christy (hawkes@citlink.net)
Mercenaries by Angela Knight
Rating: 5 Stars
This was the first book of Ms. Knight's that I've read, and I definitely was not disappointed! It's a fantastic, futuristic read of 3 stories blended into one, full of fun and fascinating characters with loads of passion and very steamy sex scenes. I couldn't put it down and I'm already checking her backlist for more. This book is worthy of a whole galaxy of stars rating.
Christy (hawkes@citlink.net)
Bed Rest by Sarah Bilston
Rating: 5 Stars
I really enjoyed this first novel by Ms. Bilston. It's a fast-paced quick read of Q's diary after she is put on bed rest during pregnancy. The interaction between her and husband, Tom, is funny and touching as they realize they have lost touch with one another, reconnect, and discover what is important to them. The character development between the couple and the secondary characters is wonderful and I was left honestly caring about all of them and wanting to find out more. I'm eagerly awaiting her next book.
Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com)
The Machiavelli Covenant by Allan Folsom
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this book! It's my favorite so far of this year! From the minute you start, it pulls you into the story! Now I have to go read the rest of Folsom's books!
Nancy Dunn (nsdunn@sbcglobal.net)
Wild Fire by Nelson DeMille
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a masterpiece of suspense writing, and DeMille's very best. I haven't read a better written book in long, long time.The humor is tops. Let's hope this really is fiction!!
Christy (hawkes@citlink.net)
Shadow Dance by Julie Garwood
Rating: 5 Stars
This was a fast-paced suspense thriller that reunites us, and brings together, with Jordan and Noah from previous books in this series about the Buchanan family. I was hooked from the start and couldn't put the book down until the very end. It ended with the promise (hope) of another book (historical) with the Buchanans and MacKennas.
Christy (hawkes@citlink.net)
Always by Jude Deveraux
Rating: 4 Stars
I have really enjoyed this series by Jude Deveraux. This book was a good sequel from the start and kept up the suspense and interest until the last page. I only wish there was another book to expand further with this series and tie up all of the loose ends.
Gloria
A Dilly of A Death by Susan Whittig Albert
Rating: 5 Stars
This very suspenseful book has an unexpected ending. It makes you want to keep turning pages until the very end.
Christy (hawkes@citlink.net)
Six Feet Under by Mackenzie McKade
Rating: 5 Stars
This was a fantastic erotic paranormal vampire tale with characters that made the pages sizzle with their red-hot love scenes. It was a real page turner that left me wishing for more...hopefully a series that will include both Charlene's and Devin's brothers' stories.
Kym
Lucy Gets Her Life Back by Stef Ann Holm
Rating: 4 Stars
I enjoyed this romance very much. It's nice to read about someone who is not necessarily 22 and gorgeous!
Audrey Burke
Trunk Music by Michael Connelly
Rating: 4 Stars
I'm reading some of his older books now that I missed and I am really enjoying this one.
Judy O.
Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn
Rating: 5 Stars
In this popular series of books, Mitch Rapp is an undercover operative with the CIA. He often has to assassinate someone in the line of duty. However, in this book he finds that he is the hunted by a Saudi who thinks Mitch killed his son. This is an extremely readable book, and it keeps you on the edge of your seat, wondering how it will end. I'd like to see Lee Child's hero Jack Reacher pair up with Flynn's hero Mitch Rapp in a novel. That would be quite a joining of super-heroes, and what a story it would make!
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
The Final Solution by Michael Chabon
Rating: 2 Stars
This is the second novel by Chabon that I have read (the other is THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF KAVALIER & CLAY), and I do not enjoy his style of writing. A dictionary is essential when reading his books,which may be good, but every page is too much. I guess my reading style is too low to enjoy Chabon.
Carole
Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this Stephanie Plum series! I love the mystery, hilarious laugh-out-loud scenes, and the romance. The heroine is strong and likeable. The men are so hot! And the other characters are so funny.
Carol
A Bend in the Road by Nicholas Sparks
Rating: 5 Stars
I'm a big fan of Nicholas Sparks's books. A BEND IN THE ROAD showed not only the feelings of the hero and heroine, but also the feelings of the bad guy, which is something I like. Unable to accept the death of his wife, the hero spends a lot of time trying to find out what happened. You will enjoy this book. I found it very hard to put down.
Shana D. (ednotgot@gmail.com)
The Secret by Rhonda Byrne
Rating: 5 Stars
This book, about how you can have, be, or do anything you want in life, ties in with the movie of the same name released last year. Readers of this genre will recognize the principles, but the team of contributors in THE SECRET share an abundance of wisdom. Reading THE SECRET is quite motivating for changing your thoughts and your life. The secret to the world is especially relevant now --- stand for something (like peace) instead of against something.
Oprah is said to be looking for 'secret' stories, so if she features the book on her show, expect to see a lot of buzz. Reading THE SECRET will be life changing for some people; for others, it is a gentle reminder that our thoughts create our life experience.
Julie (fictionis4me@yahoo.com)
The Road by Cormac McCarthy
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a fine novel, well written and unforgettable. I've never read something that was so entirely lacking in hope. This book tells the story of a young boy and his father as they try and survive after a nuclear war. It's pretty depressing stuff, though certainly gripping. I didn't think the writing was incredible, so I'm only giving it four stars.
Kris
700 Sundays by Billy Crystal
Rating: 5 Stars
Absolutely mahvelous! Loved it! It showed how important family can be and how their memories and influence live on.
Marcia
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards
Rating: 5 Stars
A great book from beginning to end. The characters are interesting and the author does a great of job developing them. The book follows the lives of 4 characters, and starts when twins are born and separated at birth. This is a good story for book clubs, I think lots of good discussions can come out of it.
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen
Rating: 2 Stars
This is the second book in a row I have read about mental illness. I don’t mean to be harsh here, but I did not like GIRL, INTERRUPTED at all. It was a lot like AN UNQUIET MIND. It seemed sporadic and cold. Maybe it's because it was written from the point of view from a person who has mental illness, or maybe the difficulty lay with organizing thoughts and time. I am not sure, but for me, it was a difficult read. I also found it odd that Susanna said very little about her family. This was a book about her, but I find it hard to believe that her family did not have any impact on her mental state. I am still interested in seeing this movie. I can’t imagine it would follow the book too closely. I will give credit where credit is due, however. I give these ladies kudos for being very open and honest about their illness and sharing it with the public. It takes guts, and I am sure it is an emotional risk. Bravo! For your courage!
Juile (fictionis4me@yahoo.com)
First They Killed My Father by Loung Ung
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a wonderful book that tells the true story of a youing girl's struggles to survive the Khemer Rouge in Cambodia. This little girl's will to live is astounding. FIRST THEY KILLED MY FATHER is a tough book to read, but I'm a deeper person for having read it.
Julie (fictionis4me@yahoo.com)
Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors
Rating: 5 Stars
A friend recommended this novel to me, and I'm so glad she did. It's the best book I've read in a long time. This novel is based upon the love story behind the creation of the Taj Mahal. The writing is like poetry, and yet, the novel is a real page turner. Wonderful stuff.
Roxie
The Kindness of Strangers by Katrina Kittle
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this heartbreakingly sad novel. It revolves around a widow who discovers her best friend has been arrested in a child sexual abuse scandal. You will feel her shock, disbelief and mortification. You won't be able to put it down until you find out what happens.
Debbie Koenig (Ragsk2743@aol.com)
True Evil by Greg Iles
Rating: 5 Stars
The plot was very imaginative and the suspense was awesome! Even though it is over 400 pages, I felt like I just couldn't put it down and finished it in 3 days while working full time!
Fran
Sold by Patricia McCormick
Rating: 3 Stars
A young adult book that depicts the life of a 13-year-old girl from Nepal, who is sold into prostitution. As a YA novel, I thought it was good. As an adult, I craved more depth to the story. Overall, the story was very sad and thought provoking. While this was a fictional story, it is true in that many young women are sold into prostitution every day. It was a good depiction of the lives of women in poorer sections of Nepal and other countries.
Melissa
Second Glance by Jodi Picoult
Rating: 5 Stars
A ghost story with Jodi's typically controversial subject matter. I loved that it was from many years ago, but still incredibly relevant here and now (in fact I heard a story on NPR about it!)
Sharon Bryan
Bad Blood by Linda Fairstein
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is not disappointing, and it was worth the wait. It is a suspenseful book that you will not want to put down.
Genie (geniedances@yahoo.com)
Good Omens by Neil Gaiman & Terry Pratchett
Rating: 5 Stars
Two witch hunters, a fallen angel who is friends with an angel (over the centuries they decided they had more in common with each other than either had with humans), nuns of the Chattering order who misplaced the anti-Christ, the four horseman riding motorcycles, and a psychic. Sound confusing? It all comes together in a very funny conclusion.
Brenda K.
The Real Mother by Judith Michael
Rating: 4 Stars
This was an interesting story about an older sister placed in the position of mother for her three younger siblings. She ends up in this situation because their father has left the family years ago, and their mother suffered a debilitating stroke about three years prior to the start of the story. With their mother in a nursing home, Sara, the oldest of five children, drops out of medical school to come home and fulfill her mother's role.
More difficulties arise when another brother, Mack, who is younger than Sara, but older then the others, decides to come back and stay in his old room for a while. It seems that Mack may be involved in questionable activities and may not be the best role model for the younger children.
Throughout the book, Sara is torn between her role as a parent and having a life of her own. She also struggles with concerns about her skills as a mother, since she really is only the children’s sister and only a half-sister at that.
The story is engaging, but a little predictable. Still, it was an enjoyable read.
Melissa
Brief History of the Dead by Kevin Brockmeier
Rating: 4 Stars
This book offers an interesting theory about the dead, the spirits or the souls of those who have moved on. I think the ending could have been different, but I liked the way it got me thinking about our purpose in life and dealing with the afterlife.
William McDougall (billmcdougall@comcast.net)
The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Anne Fadiman
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the true story of a family belonging to the Hmong tribe in Vietnam, their journey to America, and the resulting culture clashes that ensue. A young girl suffers from epileptic seizures, and her parents don't comprehend the proper treatment because of their cultural beliefs. The title of the book is the English translation of the name of the disorder the Hmong tribe believes the young girl has, and they often are very unreceptive to the efforts of the doctors and social workers to provide care.
This is a thoroughly engrossing read --- I finished it in one sitting. It was written by Anne Fadiman, who is not only highly respected and known in writing circles for her own work, but also for being the daughter of author Clifton Fadiman.
Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com)
Forever In Blue by Ann Brashares
Rating: 4 Stars
This was a good ending to the series. I love the characters.
Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com)
Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 4 Stars
I love the Stephanie Plum series, and I loved this in-between book. There were a couple things that made me laugh out loud. But, it's a tease for the next installment!
William McDougall (billmcdougall@comcast.net)
Born On A Blue Day by Daniel Tammet
Rating: 4 Stars
Daniel Tammet is an autistic savant who lives with Asperger's syndrome. He has amazed and confounded researchers as he can accomplish huge math problems in his head almost instantaneously and without effort, reciting the solution to Pi correctly to 22,514 digits in 5 hours, 9 minutes and 24 seconds. He did this in front of Einstein's chalkboard on Einstein's birthday, (which is also his birthday), in an effort to raise awareness for the UK's National Autism Foundation, and along the way made it into THE GUINESS BOOK OF WORLD RECORDS. He experiences numbers, calculations and much of daily life synesthesically, which means a blending of the senses --- hence the title of the book. With many other unique and astonishing abilities, he has managed to overcome the biggest barriers that people who live with autism face --- social interaction and compulsive and repetitive routine.
(Remember the movie, Rain Man, and how he had to follow routines that, if broken, would cause him to become very upset; this was based on another autistic savant named Kim Peek).
An absolutely astonishing young man, he has written a memoir, and regularly appears to raise awareness for his cause. Researchers are also very interested in his abilties, because he can express and understand what is going on in his mind as he lives day to day. This is an absolute must read.
William McDougall (billmcdougall@comcast.net)
An Unquiet Mind by Kay Redfield Jamison
Rating: 4 Stars
Kay Redfield Jamison chronicles how her life has been since college, when she developed bipolar disorder that causes dramatic mood swings from times of deep depression to periods of endless energy and euphoric mania. Now practicing as a professor of psychology at Johns Hopkins, she has authored three books and co-authored a textbook. This revealing, insightful and well-written memoir shows her triumph over a debilitating mental disorder. It is an inspiration to many who live with similar problems, as well as their loved ones, and acts as a guide for the professionals who treat them.
William McDougall (billmcdougall@comcast.net)
A Gentle Madness by Nicholas Basbanes
Rating: 5 Stars
Nicholas Basbanes leads the reader into an adventurous and entertaining world of obsession with books and book collecting. From collectors who donated thousand of books to form libraries, to a man who stole 30,000 books from libraries over the course of his life, this is a look at what makes bibliophiles tick. Superbly written.
Marilyn
The Cell by Stephen King
Rating: 4 Stars
There was a lot of suspense in this interesting and fun read. I couldn't put the book down.
Corinna (alize55@aol.com)
When the Wind Blows by James Patterson
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is so great! It is a fast read filled with heartache, mystery, happiness, and love. I loved everything about it! By far, this is my favorite James Patterson novel (and I love them all!)
Kris
Holy Cow: An Indian Adventure by Sarah MacDonald
Rating: 3 Stars
Not an easy read, but very, very informative. I saw it through to the end, and I learned a lot I didn't know about many religions and traditions and the lifestyle of India.
Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com)
Nip, Tuck, Dead by Lori Avocato
Rating: 5 Stars
I love love love this series! This is book five, and each one gets better and funnier! Try this author out, I love her!
Beth Z (eazimme@yahoo.com)
The Innocent Man by John Grisham
Rating: 5 Stars
I found this book to be fascinating...couldn't put it down. Grisham has written some excellent novels, but his first foray into nonfiction was outstanding. The story was sobering --- everything that could possibly go wrong or be overlooked was so in this murder trial. I highly recommend this book.
Juanita
The Samaritan by Richard Price
Rating: 4 Stars
This is very detailed. When I finish this book, I will know these characters very well!
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Body of Evidence by Patricia Cornwall
Rating: 3 Stars
An interesting book, but I felt it ended haphazardly. Regardless, it was a real page turner, and I plan to read more of her books.
Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com)
Fortunate Son by Walter Mosley
Rating: 4 Stars
At times, I felt that parts of the story were like tall tales and very unbelievable. Who would have figured that the sickly, black boy would be "the fortunate" son? This story exposed the dark side of life, but shows that in the end, goodness does prevail.
Terry Leibel (t_leibel@hotmail.com)
Deception Point by Dan Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
Believe it or not, this is my first Dan Brown novel. I am presently half way through, and have enjoyed every page.
Kellie
An Unquiet Mind by Kay Redfield Jamison
Rating: 3 Stars
I am glad I had the opportunity to read this book. If it wasn’t for bookcrossing, I wouldn’t be exposed to such a vast choice of interesting reads. With that being said, I am disappointed in this work. What I thought was going to be a personal depiction of a woman with manic depressive disorder turned out to be, at times, somewhat cold, dull and almost textbook-like writing that seemed impersonal. I will not take away from the obvious, that this woman is brilliant and very successful in her field. However, I think her brilliance, her experience in the educational field, took away from what could have been a book that could be recommended to anyone who has experienced this psychological disorder themselves or with a family member. I may still recommend it, but I bet there are better books out there, written from the point of view of a regular person with a gift of expressing him/herself from the heart instead of the brain.
Kris
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls
Rating: 4 Stars
Interesting and eye-opening story of a dysfunctional family and their remarkable children.
Frances Robson
Body Double by Tess Gerritsen
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the first book I've read by this author, but it won't be my last. I never saw the end coming! Good mystery.
Kris
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards
Rating: 4 Stars
The characters and the story involve a lot of emotion, hope, and persistence. Edwards has done a great job showing you the viewpoints and impact of events on the characters.
Paula J Sisson (paulajsisson@swfla.rr.com)
Mistral's Kiss by Laurell K. Hamilton
Rating: 4 Stars
In this 5th installment in Hamilton's Merry Gentry series, the men (more numerous), the magic (still growing ), and surprising turns make for a fast-paced and hard-to-put-down book. There is so much action and information is given in a short book for her (little over 200 pages), it's hard to believe it all happens over hours and not days! It's a nonstop, breathtaking, enjoyable read!
Kris
The Gates of the Alamo by Stephen Harrigan
Rating: 4 Stars
Published in 2000, this book brings the story of the Alamo to life. I enjoyed reading about how people lived, traveled, fought, etc.
Lindy
Copycat by Erica Spindler
Rating: 5 Stars
Spindler's 12th romantic thriller is all about a serial killer called the Sleeping Angel Killer who likes to target 10-year-old children with blonde hair. Kitt Lundgren --- who failed to capture the killer 5 years earlier --- and Mary Catherine Riggio of the Violent Crimes Bureau are hot on the trail.
Joanne (jfriday77@aol.com)
The Innocent Man by John Grisham
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is written in typical Grisham style --- few words and some sarcasm. It is a real eye opener to our justice system. Grisham wrote it like a novel, but states that it is nonfiction. He did the research and found that real life is a much more involved story than anything he could have made up.
Wendy Catalano
Hannibal Rising by Thomas Harris
Rating: 5 Stars
A great introduction to the Hannibal Lecter series.
L. Hann
Promise Me by Harlan Coben
Rating: 5 Stars
Excellent. Harlan Coben will have you on the edge of your seat the whole time. Myron Bolitar is at it again. He has made a promise to his best friend's daughter and now she has disappeared. All fingers point to Myron as having something to do with her disappearance. Can he get to the bottom of this before it is too late?
Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com)
The Brotherhood of the Holy Shroud by Julia Navarro
Rating: 5 Stars
I loved this book! Translated into English from a Spanish author, this is another tale and twist of the Knights Templar.
If you loved THE DA VINCI CODE, THE TEMPLAR LEGACY, and THE EXPECTED ONE, you will love this! I can't wait for Navarro's next book, due in 2008.
Dawn (princesssaurora@aol.com)
Carved in Bone by Jefferson Bass
Rating: 4 Stars
Right up there with Reichs and Cornwell, this is a book that forensics lovers should not miss!
Dawn (princesssaurora@aol.com)
Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich
Rating: 4 Stars
Great fun! Love Diesel, love Stephanie, love Lula... how could you not love the book! Even Bob and Grandma Mazur get in for a scene or two! This was a great, fun fun read to satisfy me until #13 in the series!!
Michelle G.
The Constant Princess by Philippa Gregory
Rating: 4 Stars
Great historically accurate fiction!
Dawn (princesssaurora@aol.com)
Bad Blood by Linda Fairstein
Rating: 4 Stars
Linda may have topped herself with this book, in my opinion! I liked that Alex was not in any dire danger but was totally in the thick of the detecting. This was a great book, and I can't wait for the next!
Lindy (Patience(@aol.com)
The Perfect Fake by Barbara Parker
Rating: 4 Stars
Tom Fairchild is a graphic artist specializing in map reproduction. Unfortunately, he has a past and a probation officer who has it in for him. Stuart Barlowe offers him a lot of money to travel to Europe and copy a rare map. The hitch is that Stuart's daughter must go with him. There is a snag --- they use to be lovers in college and it didn't end well. Once in Euope, the plan starts to unravel and the two go on the run.
L. Hann
Dark Harbor by Stuart Woods
Rating: 5 Stars
Stone Barrington's uncle has passed away and his family is dead. Though they originally thought it was a murder/suicide, they are not so sure anymore. It is starting to look like murder, and Stone is on the case to find the truth.
Wendy Catalano
We Are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg
Rating: 4 Stars
This quick read is a touching story of family and survival.
Kay Keller
The Machiavelli Covenant by Allan Folsom
Rating: 5 Stars
I enjoy the suspense/thriller genre and this is one of the best novels I've read in this catgory. If you enjoy really good political thrillers with the kind of suspense that includes assassinations of world leaders and attacks on cities with weapons of mass destruction, and conspiracies that include the world's top leaders, then you'll enjoy this book. It is really hard to put down!
AnnieH (annieh@centurytel.net)
McNally's Chance by Lawrence Sanders
Rating: 5 Stars
Archy is such a character. I love all the McNally books.
Karen Hurst
The Cotton Queen by Pamela Morsi
Rating: 5 Stars
A very entertaining book that highlights the relationship between many mothers and daughters.
Jon Weiman (jdweiman@optonline.net)
The Emperor's Children by Claire Messud
Rating: 4 Stars
THE EMPEROR'S CHILDREN is written in a brilliant, subtle style with beautiful character development and interplay. It is a study of the urbane, socially elite world of contemporary New York.
Patti D.
The Broker by John Grisham
Rating: 4 Stars
Interesting, fast moving and suspenseful!
Mary Schreiner
Riding Lessons by Sara Gruen
Rating: 5 Stars
The mother and teenage daughter relationship is so true to life in this book. After reading this, I had a new appreciation and love for horses. It will make you wish you owned one.
Mary Schreiner
Trail of Feathers by Robert Rivard
Rating: 5 Stars
This is a wonderful tribute to a writer by his former editor. Once I started, I could not put this book down.
Jean Mess
Gone by Lisa Gardner
Rating: 5 Stars
I couldn't put this book down, even if the football playoffs were on TV that day. Quincy and Rainie were in previous books, and it's good to catch up with them again. This book leads you down lots of paths and keeps you guessing who the villain is and what is going to happen next to whom. Excitement, excitement!
Lindy
The Third Secret by Steve Barry
Rating: 5 Stars
This conspiracy thriller set at the Vatican is the story of Jakob Volkner, Pope Clement XV, and his secretary Monsignor Colin Michner, an Illegitimate Irish-born but American-educated priest.
As the pope deals with his feelings on the church's restrictive dogma, especially priests marrying and the ineffaceability of the pope. The pope is very much interested in the reports on visitations of the Virgin Mary that have not been revealed.
Toni Savchuck (tonisandlin@aol.com)
The Machiavelli Covenant by Allan Folsom
Rating: 5 Stars
This book is so exciting and suspenseful that I don't want to work or go to sleep! Imagine the U.S. President running for his life from his own advisors! And that's just part of the story!
Carrie Hosozawa
Getting Warmer by Carol Snow
Rating: 5 Stars
Carol Snow has outdone herself. I LOVED this book! I fell right into the story of Natalie Quackenbush and her friends right away. My girlfriends and I used to do the exact same thing (lying about our names and jobs) when we met guys we weren't really into. Although, I never actually ended up liking one of them as Natalie does. Snow nailed the descriptions of the Arizona landscapes, especially Sedona. Her sophmore effort is just as much fun as her first book, BEEN THERE, DONE THAT.
Just get it, you won't be able to stop smiling!
Sheila M
Wanda Hickey's Night of Golden Memories by Jean Shepherd
Rating: 5 Stars
This great book is laugh-out-loud funny! The movie A Christmas Story is loosely based on this, along with another by this author. WANDA HICKEY'S NIGHT OF GOLDEN MEMORIES is a collection of short stories based on the author's boyhood, growing up in post-Depression era Indiana. I can't wait to read the rest of his books.
Coral Harrison
Web of Evil by J. A. Jance
Rating: 5 Stars
This is one of J. A. Jance's best books. This second installment in this series about a woman investigator. It holds your interest and is mostly plausible.
Coral Harrison
The Book of Fate by Brad Meltzer
Rating: 5 Stars
Meltzer can tell a story very well. This is about the wrong use of power in Washington DC, and how each person is used by others' greed. It's hard to lay the book down once you start.
Diane Pollock (blacksnake@mchsi.com)
A Man Without a Country by Kurt Vonnegut
Rating: 5 Stars
Wonderful, hilarious and thoughtful work.
bookczuk
The Tender Bar by J.R. Moehringer
Rating: 3 Stars
This book was interesting, but not as captivating as I'd been led to believe it would be. I had to push myself to read after the first half of the book. The epilogue made me realize I'd skimmed some parts and had to go back and re-read, so all in all, it took me way longer than usual to read it. It is well written, though, so I can't really complain. Maybe I need to take a break from memoirs for a while and move back to fiction. People who write about their lives usually have something icky in there, and I need some straight-out relief and relaxation reading.
Linder56 (vapacoboy@msn.com)
Cosmos and Psyche by Richard Tarnas
Rating: 5 Stars
Do you believe our lives are written out for us in the stars? Do you look at the night sky and wonder if there is a "planetary correlation" between your life and that of someone who lived before you --- a creative intelligence that guides the progression of our planet? Richard Tarnas gives thought-provoking evidence of "the human role in the cosmos." This book is not for the faint of heart --- it is 569 pages of science, theology,history and intellectual thought. But, it has the potential to change the way you think about the universe and your role in it. It did mine!
bookczuk
The Remedy by Michelle Lovric
Rating: 3 Stars
I'm at a loss over how to categorize this book: much of it centers on a love story of sorts, but it is not a typical romance. It starts with a murder and ends with the solution to that murder, but it's not a mystery. There are spies and espionage in the good old-fashioned sense (an actress reporting to her keepers, for starters). but it in no way resembles the spy stories of today. Borne would be totally clueless with this one. There is a good girl gone bad, or perhaps bad girl gone good, along with problem parenting, and an awful child who actually becomes one of my favorite characters (the horrible Pevenche --- I'm not sure how to pronounce her name, but it always sounded somethig like "peevish" in my head, which suited her well.) Lovric certainly researched the story well.
Kathy Chiocca
A Thread of Grace by Mary Doria Russell
Rating: 4 Stars
Very different from her previous 2 books, THREAD OF GRACE is the story of how ordinary Italian citizens hid Jews in small rural towns during World War II. The characters are wonderful and the story is terrific. As usual, Russell's writing is wonderful and rich in dialogue and detail.
Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com)
Case Histories by Kate Atkinson
Rating: 5 Stars
This is an intriguing mystery. You know someone is guilty, but you are worried just the same.
Kate Atkinson is a good writer. I loved her book BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE MUSEUM and this is just as good.
Rita Sheppard (arochel52@hotmail.com)
A Hard Bargain by Jane Tesh
Rating: 3 Stars
This is a mystery starring new detective Madeline Maclin, who had previously solved a murder at a beauty pageant in A CASE OF IMAGINATION. She comes across people who see poltergeists, con men, pet psychics, and a "Mantis Man" who is having a movie made about him.
Conni Jurmo (connijur@yahoo.com)
The Brotherhood of the Holy Shroud by Julia Navarro
Rating: 4 Stars
A fast-paced story of the attempted thefts and the fires occurring in the cathedral in Turin where Christ's Shroud is housed.
The one clue is enigmatic since the culprit has had his tongue cut out and his fingerprints burned off. Searching for the solution leads to delving through history and taking a look at secret societies.
A great read.
Marlie Warren (justme@xmission.com)
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Rating: 4 Stars
Great read. This book bounces back and forth from the present to the past. I especially loved the chapters from Jacob's present state and his time in the old-folks home. I love his interaction with others and his "thoughts" as he tells his daily tales.
I would recommend this book to anyone.
Wanda Stevens (stevens_8@sympatico.ca)
Angels & Demons by Dan Brown
Rating: 4 Stars
Very good book. It's written by the author of THE DA VINCI CODE and runs along the same lines, involving secret symbols, murder, the Vatican, and lots and lots of drama, mystery, and thrills.
Marlie Warren (justme@xmission.com)
For One More Day by Mitch Albom
Rating: 5 Stars
Huge five stars for this one!! I think I enjoyed this book more than his other two!! One of my five grown sons e-mailed me one day to say that I had to read this book, so I got myself a copy, and once I started I had a difficult time putting it down!
Throughout the entire book, I could relate to WHY my son wanted me to read it. It's sweet, heartfelt and beautiful.
Thanks to my son Josh, and thanks to Mitch Albom for delighting us yet again!
Conni Jurmo (connijur@yahoo.com)
Bushworld by Maureen Dowd
Rating: 3 Stars
This is a satiric and sometimes insightful look at the current president and his family. It delves into many topics: the background and the attitudes of the current president towards the legacy that his father has left; the influence of Dick Cheney,Carl Rove and others; the stealing of the presidency by pressure put upon the Supreme Court to "repay favors" by voting for Bush to be president; his current thinking; his preference to cut brush in Crawford rather than deal with problems in Washington; his destruction of alliances his father worked so hard to forge are all covered.
D Havens
Three Junes by Julia Glass
Rating: 4 Stars
This book is marvelous! The author's ability to put herself into the minds of three very different characters and write from their perspectives is extraordinary. I found myself referring back to the cover to see if the author was a man or a woman. She deals with difficult emotional themes, such as faithfulness, the passionate longing for a child, homosexuality, and family relationships, and handles them with a mastery of writing skills. One would never know this was her first book. I strongly recommend it!
Janice
Runaway by Alice Munro
Rating: 5 Stars
When it comes to short stories, there is no better writer than Alcie Munro. This book is a compilation of extraordinary stories about love, betrayals and surprises. She writes about women of all ages --- their friends, lovers, parents and children --- and they become so real.
Margaret Nance (mnance3@triad.rr.com)
Extraordinary People by Peter May
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the first book in a new series by Scottish arthor Peter May. On a bet, forensic scientist Enzo Macleod, who left his native Scotland to teach in France, is challenged to solve a 10-year-old mystery. Mcleod traces the mysterious disappearance of a brilliant teacher who trained some of France's best and brightest young students. It is fascinating to see Enzo put together the pieces of this puzzle, as well as resolve some of his own personal history. It is a non-stop read.
Gale
Crescent Moon by Lori Handeland
Rating: 4 Stars
Another imaginative story in Handeland's Nightcreature series, this one is set in atmosphere-laden New Orleans. Suspense, swamps, voodoo and werewolves add up to a great read.
Pat Miller
Married to a Stranger by Patricia MacDonald
Rating: 5 Stars
This book was a grabber from page one. Emma gets married, and on the first night of her honeymoon is attack by someone with an axe. This book had so many twists that I had to stay up to finish it. I read it in one night. It's one of the best books I've read. Loved it!
Pat Miller
True Evil by Greg Iles
Rating: 5 Stars
This is the first book I've read by Greg Iles, but I will continue to read his work. This book goes very in depth about viruses, cancer, etc. Dr. Shepard is 36 years old and newly wed. A special agent walks into his office and tells him that his beautiful new wife is plotting his murder. The way they're killing people is fascinating. A very good read!
Sherry Hills
Love You to Death by Melissa Senate
Rating: 5 Stars
I love this book. Senate keeps you guessing who the murder is until the end of the book.
There are some funny parts in the book, and you don't know who the murderer is until the end.
Tammy L.
Autobiography of a Fat Bride by Laurie Notaro
Rating: 5 Stars
Terrific!
Pat in MO
Cotton Song by Tom Bailey
Rating: 4 Stars
Set in Mississippi, COTTON SONG is a great read about the blacks and whites, and the rich and poor. I could not put it down.
Gaye McGill
I Am of Irelaunde: A Novel of Patrick and Osian by Juilene Osborne-McKnight
Rating: 5 Stars
I discovered Osborne-McKnight several months ago and love her books! Have passed them on to my granddaughters. These are beautifully told tales of Irish pre-history.
Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net)
In Pursuit of the Proper Sinner by Elizabeth George
Rating: 5 Stars
The 10th installment in the Lynley - Havers series, IN PURSUIT OF THE PROPER SINNER has several interesting characters, an intricate plot, and several subplots happening all at once. George writes in such a wa that you don't get lost, and everything comes together at the end
This was about the murder of Nicola --- a beautiful girl sought after by many --- and Terry --- seemingly just a victim of circumstance. Lynley asks to be put on the task force because he knows Nicola's father Andy, a former undercover cop with the Yard. Lynley and Havers are not getting along after the last book, in which she almost kills a fellow officer in order to help save a victim. Havers is demoted, and Thomas, who does not take her side, is left to find another partner. However, they must turn to Barbara for help with the case when they find leads in London.
I love Havers. She is a great character. She is good at her job, and is like a stubborn bull-dog. No matter the consequences, she is going to solve this case, and solve it she does. This series just gets better and better. I feel like I know these characters personally.
Rita
Imperium by Robert Harris
Rating: 4 Stars
I found it a little difficult to get into this book, but perhaps that was because I did not know a lot about Cicero. However, the intrigue began to grip me and I found I had to finish. There were many clever statements made, such Piso's question to Cicero: "When has idiocy been a bar to advancement in politics?" and Cicero's statement, "if it's gratitude you want, get a dog". Overall, this was a very, very good book.
Julie Towson
The Client by John Grisham
Rating: 5 Stars
This is engrossing and page turning --- typical Grisham. I highly recommend this book.
Beth from Sioux Falls (mtc350@hotmail.com)
Life of Pi by Yann Martel
Rating: 5 Stars
I truly enjoyed this story. Pi finds himself on a life raft after surviving a shipwreck in the Pacific. He makes do with the provisions at hand, and manages not to completely panic and lose himself due to fear and loneliness. Part of the reason he is able to survive is his need to provide for Richard Parker, a Bengal tiger that is onboard with him --- a part of the zoo his family was moving to Canada from India.
I particularly liked Pi's philosophical ruminations, making this an engrossing book.
Terri Dobson
Under the Wire by Cindy Gerard
Rating: 4 Stars
I wish I could start with the first book in a series, but somehow I always find myself with book three or four, then must quickly digest referrals to previous installments for character understanding. I didn't need to do this with this author! I was able to enjoy it all, even with the references to previous books and how the characters all fit together. I've really become a fan of military and private security companies' intrigue. This particular series features a group called E.D.E.N., which specializes in bodyguards and rescue operations. The story of Manny Ortega and Lilly Campora brings us to different venues: Nicaragua and Sri Lanka. The bad guys are still bad, but this time it's Spanish and Hindi, not Farsi. I would have liked more information about Lilly in the 17 years between run-ins with Manny. This was a good book, and yes, I will be chasing down the previous ones. I like her characters.
Beth from Sioux Falls (mtc350@hotmail.com)
The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill by Mark Bittner
Rating: 4 Stars
This book is a memoir of Mark Bittner's discovery and study of the cherry conures (red-headed parrots) that live in a small flock (up to 45 or so) in the middle of San Francisco. He learns to know the birds individually by careful observation while they are at his bird feeder, and later as he feeds some by hand. It is an interesting, compelling and educational story.
Pattie Berryhill (pattiberr@aol.com)
Fear by Jeff Abbott
Rating: 1 Stars
This was a very dumb book. Don't waste your time.
Rita Sheppard (arochel52@hotmail.com)
Don of the Dead by Casey Daniels
Rating: 4 Stars
This is an hilarious mystery about Pepper Martin, who works in a cemetery and can see ghosts after she hits her head on a mausoleum. The body inside is a Mafia Don who wants to find out who killed him and gets Pepper to help him.
Gerry
Blue Water by A. Manette Ansay
Rating: 3 Stars
I found this book to be not as good as VINEGAR HILL, a book I enjoyed several years ago, by the same author. After their six-year-old son is killed in an auto accident, a now-childless couple leaves their hometown and sets sail for the Caribbean to escape their grief and start a new life. They meet up with a lot of interesting characters, most of whom have their own reasons for sadness that they're trying to forget. Unfortunately, the writing in this novel is only so-so.
Ladyslott (lslott@optonline.net)
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield
Rating: 4 Stars
A modern gothic mystery filled with all the ingredients: a mysterious older woman, a younger woman who has lived a sheltered life, a beautiful old house, a tragic fire, hints of sexual obsession, madness, and a ghost (or two).
I recommend this book very highly.
Beth from Sioux Falls (mtc350@hotmail.com)
The Children's Blizzard by David Laskin
Rating: 2 Stars
This is an interesting nonfiction book that details nearly every aspect of a terrible snow storm that blew out onto the plains of Dakota Territory, Nebraska, and Minnesota in January of 1988. Laskin spends quite a bit of time on the science of weather and the causes of blizzards while also telling the human stories of children who were caught out in this particular storm. I gave this book a low number of stars because I felt the writing style was not great and could have used more editting.
Gerry
Beautiful Lies by Lisa Unger
Rating: 5 Stars
This is an author who's new to me, and one whose books I'll be sure to watch for as they come out. BEAUTIFUL LIES is a mystery/thriller set in and around New York City. A young woman is thrust into the media spotlight when she jumps out to save a little boy from being hit by a bus. After her photo is published in the paper and she's interviewed on TV, she receives a mysterious message from someone claiming to be her father --- but her parents deny that she was adopted. With its interesting characters and a well-developed plot, I enjoyed this one a lot, and found myself reading late into the night to see how it ended!
Beth from Sioux Falls (mtc350@hotmail.com)
Lipstick Jihad by Azadeh Moaveni
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a memoir of an Iranian-American woman who needs to come to terms with her duality after growing up in California with a family in exile from the Islamic Fundamentalist revolution in Iran and then returning to Iran as an adult to re-capture her heritage. It gives a wonderful sense of the everyday struggles that Iranians (especially women) have had to put up with since the 1979 revolution. It also provides insight into current Middle-Eastern social/political issues.
Beth from Sioux Falls (mtc350@hotmail.com)
Leave Me Alone, I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan
Rating: 4 Stars
This memoir of an obsessive reader resonates with me, another obsessive reader. Corrigan is a critic for National Public Radio's "Fresh Air" program. In her book, she describes the hows and whys of some of her book reviews. She also gives great insights into some of the literature she chooses to read and re-read. She is a college professor and many of her literary choices reflect that. This is a great book to use for reading suggestions.
Sandi Lewis
Silent in the Grave by Deanna Raybourn
Rating: 4 Stars
New historical mystery that takes place during 1800s London. It's a beautifully written and intriguing mystery.
Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com)
Into the Wilderness by Sara Donati
Rating: 3 Stars
This rich historical fiction novel is about a passionate love affair in upstate New York during the 18th century.
Richard Bartels
Marley & Me by John Grogan
Rating: 4 Stars
A hilarious and touching account of "life and love with the world's worst dog." Even non-dog/animal lovers will enjoy this memoir.
Gale
Rising Moon by Lori Handeland
Rating: 4 Stars
This is a wonderful series for those who love Charlaine Harris and Laurell K. Hamilton. Handeland's stories are great reads set around chasing werewolves, with a bit of Indian lore thrown in.
Gerry
The Echo Maker by Richard Powers
Rating: 5 Stars
THE ECHO MAKER by Richard Powers won the National Book Award, and I'd give it 5 stars. It is a combination of beautifully lyrical writing, believable and sympathetic characters, fascinating background in both neuroscience and natural history, and an interesting plot make this novel quite a special reading experience. Set in the central Nebraskan plain, the book explores the aftermath of a mysterious auto accident that leaves its victim brain injured and unable to recognize his sister, who puts her own life on hold and comes to care for him.
Jane H. (janebeatty92083@hotmail.com)
A Marked Man by Stella Cameron
Rating: 5 Stars
This a wonderful fast-paced book. S |
