| Susan |
Lisey's Story by Stephen King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It just simply doesn't matter what kind of fiction you like, Stephen King is a born storyteller and his books are always a treat. Above and beyond the strange and sometimes awful things that happen in Boo'ya Moon, this is a book about dealing with grief, the love bond between sisters and faith in each other.
|
| Bonnie |
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I decided to reread this novel to see if it was as terrific as I'd first thought. It is. THE POISONWOOD BIBLE is a compelling story of religion, hypocrisy and family relationships set amidst the turmoil in the Belgian Congo.
|
| Anna |
Protector by Laurel Dewey |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Without a doubt, this is one of the best debut fiction books I've ever read. I can't say enough about Laurel Dewey's writing style and top-notch story telling. She has created a memorable character in Detective Jane Perry, a rough, chain-smoking, alcoholic homicide cop put in charge of protecting a traumatized 9-year-old girl who witnessed the murder of her parents, but can't remember what she saw. When Jane Perry starts to have visions of events yet to occur, the story takes off in a riveting set of twists and turns that kept me glued to the book. This would make one great movie, by the way. A must read! I want to see more from Laurel Dewey.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
The Butterfly Garden by Annette Blair |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I started reading THE BUTTERFLY GARDEN late yesterday afternoon and I just finished it. It has to be one of the most touching, romantic books I have ever read.
I absolutely fell in love with Adam and Sara and the four little girls. It was all I could do to go to bed last night and not stay up and finish reading. I had a massage appointment today and I seriously thought about canceling just so I could stay home and read! I will be thinking about Adam and Sara for a long, long time.
This is the first book of Ms. Blair's that I have read and I can't wait to get my hands on another. I can only hope that she will write Jordan and Emma's story too.
|
| Christopher Starling |
The Self-Aware Universe by Amit Goswami |
Rating: 5 Stars |
First of all, it should be said that THE SELF-AWARE UNIVERSE is more than just a book. It is an eye-opening, life-changing event on a binded page. The author, Amit Goswami, Ph.D. argues for monistic idealism in a way never told before. Using quantum physics in a way that anyone can understand, Goswami shows the contradictions of quantum physics, of materialism and objectivity. Beyond that, even! He disproves everything about the universe that we have been taught all our lives. The idea that everything is matter is an outdated assumption. Everything is consciousness --- not that it is all in our heads, but that we are all one, together in the universe. But more than simply prove this, he shows its benefits, the realization of the self and of a very possible world of peace for all humanity. We are many and we are one. For anyone interested in rediscovering truth or finding your special place in the uinverse, THE SELF-AWARE UNIVERSE will, no doubt, give it to you, especially for peoples of faith.
|
| Suzanne |
The Vanishing Point by Mary Sharratt |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Loved it! It kept me intrigued, and since it was historical fiction, I felt like I was learning something along the way. A great book for book clubs to discuss.
|
| Marsha |
Mary, Mary by James Patterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This Alex Cross mystery draws us in quickly as a serial killer (suspected to be a woman) plots the murders, and Alex and his cohorts rush to stop him.
|
| Ruth |
The Long Tail by Chris Anderson |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book offers a fascinating look at the new economics of culture and commerce.
|
| Roxie |
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I read rave reviews about this book, so I looked forward to reading it. That being said, it was one of the worst books I have ever read (and finished). I only gave it a 2 because I did manage to finish it. It was a futuristic novel, but didn't explain anything clearly. I felt nothing for any of the characters (except contempt for a few of them!). Not sure what all the fuss is about, I thought it a total waste of time!
|
| John V. |
Katzenjammer by Jackson McCrae |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Great stuff here. The writing reminded me of Sedaris's with its humour, but it was also very well constructed --- the way a novel should be: beginning, middle, and end. It was a great ending, by the way. It was a mixture of ONEW FLEW OVER THE CUCKOO'S NEST and FIGHT CLUB but with more humour. Anyone interested in the "inside" of the publishing industry will want to read this.
|
| Kay Keller |
Copper Sun by Sharon Draper |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of the best historical fiction novels I've ever read!! The book is a compelling read, and is almost impossible to put down. You'll cheer for the protagonist!!
|
| Kay Keller |
Deep Storm by Lincoln Child |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I really enjoy the novels that Lincoln Child co-authors with Douglas Preston better than the books by either author alone. BUT, this is one of Child's most enjoyable efforts. It's different --- original, out-of-the-box --- and I'm glad I read it.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Enchantment: The Life of Audrey Hepburn by Donald Spoto |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Interesting story of the person behind the star. She lived through terrible times during the German occupation, and had an uncaring father. I still admire Audrey and still enjoy her films, even after the glance behind the picture.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant by Anne Tyler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This author writes great novels about families --- dysfunctional but determined families. This one is no exception. She always has characters you learn to love like Ezra and Luke, learn to feel sorry for like Jenny and Josiah, and learn to dislike like Cody and sometimes Pearl. To me, this story revolves around the fallout after the father, Beck, leaves the family and how Pearl handles it. She is a strong woman, bound and determined to keep things normal and neutral after Beck’s departure. But like any other human being, she sometimes cracks under pressure. It is interesting to view her through the eyes of her children.
You could find a quotable phrase in every chapter. There hasn’t been a Tyler book I haven’t felt compelled to list as one of my favorites.
|
| Judy O. |
Winter's Bone by Daniel Woodrell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Sixteen-year-old Ree Dolly is in charge of her family, who consists of herself, 2 younger brothers, and a mentally-ill mother. Her father has skipped bond and disappeared, and Ree discovers that their house was used as collateral for the bond and she will soon lose it if he doesn't show up. Ree goes in search of him at great personal danger to herself, and soon finds that he is probably dead. She needs to prove this in order to save the house. This book takes place in the Ozarks, which is also the author's home. This is a short book, but is extremely powerful both in content and in poetic writing.
|
| Ruth |
My Turquoise Years by M.A.C. Farrant |
Rating: 3 Stars |
An interesting memoir of a young girl being raised by her aunt during the 1950s. Read this right after Elizabeth Berg's WHAT WE KEEP, which took place in the same time era.
|
| Ruth |
I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I laughed all the way through this book. I can see why it's been a bestseller.
|
| Ruth |
The Handmaid and the Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I really like this author but found this particular book to be so-so.
|
| Ruth |
What We Keep by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I've been wanting to read this book forever. I really enjoyed the detailed descriptions of a girl growing up in the 1950s.
|
| Wendy Catalano |
True Evil by Greg Iles |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another great read by the author of TURNINNG ANGEL. This medical thriller is long, but worth the read.
|
| Wendy Catalano |
The Spy Who Loved Me by Ian Fleming |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A typical James Bond novel, full of suspense and romance. A good read.
|
| Roxie |
Nearer Than the Sky by Tammy Greenwood |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very good book that revolves around 2 sisters. It flashes back to their childhoods and their issues from then and now.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Rayven's Awakening by Sherri L. King |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is a fantastic erotic sci-fi fantasy with plenty of action, adventure, mystery, magic, suspense and romance. I fell in love with the characters Rayven and Draco, Ursus, Setiger, Onca, etc. and I really really hope that there will be a sequel to this story.
|
| Judy O. |
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book explores the difference between reality and delusions. Laurel Estabrook has crippling memories of a near-rape she suffered while she was out riding her bike on a country road in Vermont, seven years ago. She is now working as a social worker in a homeless shelter. A client, Bobbie Crocker, dies leaving behind a series of photographs that he has obviously taken. Laurel becomes obsessed with finding out as much as possible about the photographer and the subjects.
My main complaint about this book was the ending. The author left me confused and wondering about a lot of things. A little more time developing the end would have possibly helped --- I feel kind of cheated, because I still have some questions. All in all, a compelling book.
|
| Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com) |
Meow is for Murder by Linda O. Johnston |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another cozy mystery!
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Breeding Ground by Jaid Black |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was an enjoyable and fast-paced sci-fi read filled with suspense and romance. It had a great plot, story line, and characters.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Southern Comfort by Karen Kelley |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is a wonderfully written romantic suspense novel filled with action and adventure. I was hooked from the first chapter. The story line and plot are well written, and Wade and Fallon are both likeable characters. This was the first book of Ms. Kelley's that I've read, but I'm anxiously looking forward to reading more of her work --- especially the follow-up to this book.
|
| Kathy (Kathlau@aol.com) |
Girls' Guide to Hunting & Fishing by Melissa Banks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A series of short narratives dating back to the author's teen years, based on her relationships with the men who come in and out of her life.
|
| bookczuk |
Who Invited the Dead Man? by Patricia Sprinkle |
Rating: 4 Stars |
If you want a fairly decent cosy mystery set in the South, then this might just do it for you. This is my first time reading this author, and I'll read more.
|
| Gisele |
With Song by Dorothy Garlock |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'm right in the middle of reading this series by Dorothy Garlock that started with RIBBON IN THE SKY. I have 2 more to read after this one. They're all very good books.
|
| Pam (PDKC123@aol.com) |
Lightning by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of my favorite books ever! I read it years ago and happened upon it again last weekend. I'm reading it for the second time (which I never do) and loving it!
|
| Janice |
Baker Towers by Jennifer Haigh |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The novel traces the demise of what was once an American institution: a company town, built to house the families of coal miners. If you enjoy family sagas filled with diverse personalities, love stories, hardships and triumphs, you will love this nostalgic look back to what life was like in 1950s and 1960s America.
|
| Darryl |
Infidel by Ayaan Hirsi Ali |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It may be temporarily comfortable to think that Western ideals of freedom of conscience, tolerance, and religious liberty will last forever. This eye-opening book reveals why that ostrich view is short sighted. Those who are violently warring for a different world view hope people do not read books like this one.
|
| Marsha |
Deep Pockets by Linda Barnes |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is one of Barnes's Carlotta Carlyle mystery novels. It is a good suspense novel. She delves into the interesting world of Harvard research in the pharmaceutical field.
|
| Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com) |
Watch Them Die by Kevin O'Brien |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved how the murders took place within the plot of the story, original! I don't want to give anything away and ruin it, so just read the book.
|
| bookczuk |
Early Bird: A Memoir of Premature Retirement by Rodney Rothman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Rodney Rothman retires to Florida forty years early to see what he should expect. An interesting memoir from this ex Letterman writer, EARLY BIRD is humorous, insightful and poignant at times.
|
| Ginny |
Anyone But You by Jennifer Crusie |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This lighthearted romantic tale is a quick read and a wonderful chick novel that gently exposes some of our deepest personal challenges, and then lets the characters deals with them lightly. All of the main characters undergo personal growth and are better for the experience by the end.
I was not familiar with Crusie before, but will look for her other books now.
|
| Terri |
Southtown by Rick Riordan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another good Tres Navarre story from RIordan. This private "eye" has a PhD in Literature, an aging hippie for a mom, a cat who likes Tex-Mex, and more friends living under police radar than friends who are squeaky clean. The author does a great job of portraying the gritty crime world in San Antonio. And you can't beat the great "flavor" of the city, which straddles the U.S. and Mexico to make its own special culture.
|
| Priscilla |
Before I Go by Riley Weston |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a story of a young girl who is an ice skater with a chance to go to the Olympics, until she finds out that she has cancer. It is a story of what happens in her life after that. It is very well written.
|
| Karen Humphries |
Words Unspoken by Marvin Curtis Reid |
Rating: 5 Stars |
When I started reading this book, I had to immediately put it down because I started crying. The opening letter is so sweet and so touching that it was all I could do to get past it. I have never read anything so heartfelt and so real.
The story, on the other hand, was full of humor and madcap adventure, and it was told in a way that puts you right there with the characters. You can almost see, smell, taste and touch everything you are reading. Wow!
Because this is a book about a couple in love, I will "go there" about the love scences. Powerful is the word I will use to describe them, especially the chapter called "Silent Night." For a moment, I wished I was in love with the writer just to experience that moment for myself.
WORDS UNSPOKEN is a gem and it was actually an error in ordering. I thought I had ordered another book by this author, but got this one instead. I figured, 'Oh well it's here so I guess I will read it,' not knowing I would fall in love and be angry that the sequel is not yet out. Urrggh!
|
| Amanda Parker |
Steven by Marvin Curtis Reid |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am not certain of where or how this author came up with the concept for this book, but I have to say, it is absolutely brilliant. This is the first book I have ever read about this type on domestic violence, and it is a gripping story, one that is worthy of attention. It is unfortunate that people don't want to talk about men being abused; I think it is because it is such an unusual thing, even though it probably happens a lot more than we know.
The stigma of being an abuse victim is probably the second part, because men are supposed to be strong and not subjected to this kind of thing.
This author took me on a hell of a ride and wrote with clarity and an easy style that was digestable. I highly recommend this book, it is one that will keep you on the edge of your seat while you read it.
|
| Linda Scott (scott2@einetwork.net) |
Hannibal Rising by Thomas Harris |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This belongs as the first in the series of books about Hannibal the Cannibal. It describes Hannibal's life as a child, and the horrendous things that happened to him and his family during World War II that turned him from a gentle boy of extrordinary intelligence into a monster.
|
| Linda Scott (scott@einetwork.net) |
Wild Indigo by Sandi Ault |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This story is set in the current day, American Indian land in the west. The heroine works for BLM, and this book is very interesting if you'd like to find out more about American Indian culture. There is a mystery in this book also. I love the Gabriel Du Pré series books by Peter Bowen, and while you wait for the next one to come out, this book will keep you fascinated.
|
| Mary |
Hannibal Rising by Thomas Harris |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I am 1/3 of the way through the book. It's interesting to learn the history of Hannibal Lecter, but it is slow reading and I'm not excited as of yet. I'm hoping it will be a typical Hannibal novel with excitment mixed with replusion by the actions he does.
|
| Jo from Brooklyn |
The House of Mirth by Edith Wharton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'm in the middle of this beautifully written book about old New York society, the rules that governed it, and the people who had to live by those rules. This is the second Edith Wharton book I've read -- THE CUSTOM OF THE COUNTRY was the first -- and it's terrific.
|
| T. Thomas |
The Judgment of Paris by Ross King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fascinating story of the rise of Impressionism in France. I wished for more photographs of the art Mr. King mentioned.
|
| T. Thomas |
My Lost and Found Life by Melodie Bowsher |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful coming-of-age novel that grabs the reader from the first sentence.
|
| Bob Chase (rchase1032@aol.com) |
State of War by James Risen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I think that every American, regardless of politcal leaning, should read this book. Risen is as good as Woodward.
|
| Naia Mallet |
A Dirty Job by Christopher Moore |
Rating: 4 Stars |
You're either going to love this one or hate it...but if you've got a sense of humour that runs to the wicked and warped, you'll definitely love it as much as I did! Let your imagination go and just enjoy this one for what it is --- a hilarious, weird, and wild adventure.
|
| Gale Kearley (marcusnanpop@cs.com) |
First Impression by Margot Dalton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a great book that is hard to put down. It starts off fast paced and is easy to follow. It's about a mother's little boy being kidnapped.
|
| Maureen |
Second Glance by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was very good, as are all of Jodi's books. She never disappoints me.
|
| Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
Rise and Shine by Anna Quindlen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a book about the world of tv and two sisters. One is an anchorwoman whose life falls apart, and the other is a social worker. Two extremes!! This is intriguing, even if it is not one of Quinlan's better novels. Her articles in Newsweek and elsewhere are far better than her novels.
|
| Libby Kessman (LKx13@aol.com) |
Leave Me Alone, I'm Reading by Maureen Corrigan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Sort of a memoir-literary criticism by Fresh Air's (NPR) book critic. Very readable and accessible, the book has the tone of a friend sharing her life with you. It's different and interesting.
|
| Gloria |
Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Evanovich delivers the goods again. Those who love her books will be thrilled with this read, I know I was.
|
| Gloria |
Season of Sandstorms by Mary Pope Osborne and Salvatore Murdocca |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Kids will love this book. It'll keep them enggrossed and happy. My kids love this author's adventures.
|
| Gloria |
The Templar Legacy by Steve Berry |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Those of you who loved THE DA VINCI CODE won't want to miss this. Berry has a way with words that really brings the story to life. It is both modern and old at the same time. Don't miss this one.
|
| Gloria |
Charlotte's Web by E. B. White |
Rating: 5 Stars |
What a lovely children's story. It teaches that we are all special in some way, and even the smallest creature can make a difference in the world. The ending is a little bittersweet, but one wouldn't argue with it as it adds to the overall flavor of the story.
|
| Gloria |
Death Dance by Linda Fairstein |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Linda really delivers a good story here. There is the usual cast of odd characters, plus a famous dancer's death, along with several other crimes --- what more can one ask for? DEATH DANCE is a great read and one I would recommend to those who like this genre, and even those who don't; Linda just might get them interested in reading mystery/suspense novels.
|
| Gloria |
Bridge to Terabithia by Katherine Paterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is for both kids and adults who like a good fantasy. What a wonderful book, one that you can really get into and hate to put down until the last page. Two children bring the world of Terabithia to life, literally, and have to find a way to save their creation.
|
| Elaine |
Naked Prey by John Sandford |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one in a series featuring Lucas Davenport, who has moved up as a special troubleshooter handling cases that are too complicated for other law enforcement officers. Set in the bleak Minnesota winter, the story is anything but bleak. The plot is fast moving and the characters are interesting, and Davenport is the most well defined. A terrific book.
|
| Kathy |
The Summer Guest by Justin Cronin |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very good book. I like how each of the chapter is one character's story. It doesn't get confusing, moving from person to person, and the author helps you feel like you are a part of the community who shares time at a camp in Maine over several years. I would read more by Cronin and would definitely recommend this book to my friends.
|
| Glenda York (gyorkdobe@yahoo.com) |
Blood and Thunder by Hampton Sides |
Rating: 4 Stars |
BLOOD AND THUNDER belongs in the genre of the 25-cent novel that was the precursor to the modern western. They were fast paced and had plenty of cliffhangers and amazing tales. The main character in this remarkable history of the early conquest of the West is Kit Carson ---legendary trapper and scout who personified the surge of Manifest Destiny that was so altering the landscape. Sides does a great job of bringing all this history to life and does an especially good job of letting us in on all the various characters and their motivations. In this book, the tales are told of heroes and villains, and sometimes the same person might be both. A great historical read!
|
| Libby Kessman (LKx13@aol.com) |
Lisey's Story by Stephen King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This long novel details the history of a marriage, with the usual Stephen King horrific threat thrown in. I loved his use of made-up words that the couple used between them, but the book took a while to get into (it's very long). However, once you're into it, you can't put it down. It's available online and probably at major booksellers.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Dust by Martha Grimes |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A Richard Jury mystery that ends with another mystery --- who tried to kill Lu. I thoroughly enjoy all the eccentric characters --- Plant, Agatha, Jury, Phyllis, Wiggins. This book takes a look into Nazi Germany and the many things that happened with children and art. And of course, this brings into the story Harry, a character from a previous book. I enjoy his game of cat and mouse with Jury.
|
| J.P. Feingold |
Company Man by Joseph Finder |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I'm having a hard time with this book, as I am lacking in sympathy for the main character. Mr. Finder has taken steps to try to make an extremely wealthy person likable by having him be a self-made man whose wife has died, but it's not working for me. But, the female police detective is appealing, so I'm reading on.
|
| Mary Ellen |
The Strangler by William Landay |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was good, but I found that it started out very slow. It eventually picked up later in the book. It was a sad story of Boston stranglings and crooked cops, but also very interesting.
|
| Mary Ellen |
Iron Lace by Emilie Richards |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Aurore Gerritsen sets out to have her life story written by Phillip Benedict. This is a deeply moving family story with a dramatic chain of events. A must read. There is a sequel to this book, RISING TIDES.
|
| T. Thomas |
Adventurous Women by Penny Colman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An introduction to the lives of several fascinating women.
|
| Gloria |
S is for Silence by Sue Grafton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Grafton is on top of her game, as usual. She is a talented author who knows how to pull the reader into the mystery and mayhem of her stories. Once I pick up one of her books, I just have to find out what happens next.
|
| Sandy |
The Collectors by David Baldacci |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Anyone who read THE CAMEL CLUB will love this, and the last paragraph lets us know there will be another book to explain what happens to Annabelle.
|
| Mary B. |
Ride A Painted Pony by Kathleen Eagle |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This was good, but not really exciting.
|
| Ozarks Anne |
Millard Fillmore, Mon Amour by John Blumenthal |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The main character, Plato Fussell, is intrigued by Millard Filmore but that's just the beginning of this absolutely hilarious novel, which is one surprise after another. It starts slow, but picks up and keeps you laughing out loud with each surprising turn of events. Don't read this where other people may hear you laughing and question your sanity.
|
| Amber Porter (amberporter@msn.com) |
Running with Scissors by Augusten Burroughs |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an autobiographical book that is so well written. It is sometimes crazy, funny, and sometimes horrifying! I loved it and read it in a day!
|
| Kathleen Wierzbicki (KathyWZ@yahoo.com) |
Peter and the Starcatchers by Dave Barry and Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have been reading excerpts of this fabulous PETER PAN prequel, along with its companion novel PETER AND THE SHADOW THIEVES to the fifth graders at the school where I am the Children's Librarian. They are enthralled! I have a waiting list for both books, as well as the classic PETER PAN.
|
| Lisa Garrett (lag110@mchsi.com) |
Blue Christmas by Mary Kay Andrews |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book will have you rolling with laughter as you frolic along with the zany characters! I highly recommend all of Ms. Andrews's books.
|
| Melissa (melissaherlevic@yahoo;.com) |
The Last Life by Claire Messud |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a terrific, well-written novel. I like the variety of locations and how they are depicted in Sagesse's life. I'm a francophile and so this novel filled my heart.
|
| Krys Glavin |
The Saint of Lost Things by Christopher Castellani |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I thoroughtly enjoyed reading this book! It is the story of a youg Italian wife who leaves Italy with her new Italian-American husband in the mid 1950s, to settle in the Italian community in Wilmington, Delaware. It is an informative, enjoyable and haunting read.
|
| Dorothy |
Find Me by Carol O'Connell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This series about Mallory --- the detective with a mystery past --- is a winner and this latest in the series is one of the best yet. If you have not read any, you must start at the beginning with MALLORY'S ORACLE, as there are so many details included in each book that explain Mallory and her friends. This book and series are fabulously quirky.
|
| Priscilla (pmflynn@webtv.net) |
Flashback by Nevada Barr |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I have read all of Barr's mysteries, and I love the fact she writes about our National Parks.This book is set in Dry Tortugas National Park, seventy miles off Key West. I found this book to be every confusing as Barr jumps back and forth in time, from Anna's (the main character) life today, to the Civil War and Lincoln's assassination, which she is reading about in letters from a great-great aunt, who lived at the fort.
|
| Lisa |
Everybody into the Pool by Beth Listick |
Rating: 5 Stars |
LOVED this book. If you like memoirs and hilarious writing (think David Sedaris), this is a must read! It was one of those books I didn't want to end.
|
| Liz S (saurer927@aol.com) |
The Deception of the Emerald Ring by Lauren Willig |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a historical romance that switches to the present. The writing is breezy, the author witty. There are times when i'd snicker and laugh aloud...easy reading, just to pass time away!
|
| Gloria |
Eragon by Christopher Paolini |
Rating: 4 Stars |
My son loves this one. It is a great adventure, and one can really get caught up in the storyline.
|
| Kathy |
You Suck: A Love Story by Christopher Moore |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Christopher Moore doing what he does best. Funny, irreverant and original, this is a continuation of his previous book BLOODSUCKING FIENDS.
|
| Michele Lauer-Bader |
All Over Creation by Ruth Ozeki |
Rating: 5 Stars |
At times, this story seems a little wacky (aging hippies protesting against engineered foods) but at the bottom of it all, it is a family story. Wonderfully drawn with great characters.
|
| Scott |
Time and Again by Jack Finney |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is my most favorite book of all. I reread it every other year, just for the fun of it. I'd give it ten stars, and would urge everyone to read this absolutely fascinating story.
|
| Suzi Skutley |
Black Powder War by Naomi Novik |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This third book in the Temeraire series is like Horatio Hornblower crossed with fantasy and dragons.
|
| Kathleen Wierzbicki |
Free Fall by Fern MIchaels |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I've just started this, so I really shouldn't rate it. So far, it is a good mystery.
|
| Jon Weiman (jdweiman@optonline.net) |
Next by Michael Crichton |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book is a bit more medical/science oriented than Crichton's other works. The medical jargon gets in the way of the story. It is interesting to explore the aspects of gene-based experimentation, and Crichton, as always, is a good story teller; but, this is not one of his best.
|
| Gloria (starryann2000@yahoo.com) |
Loves, Lies, and Liquor by M.C. Beaton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Once you pick up LOVE, LIES, AND LIQUOR, you can't easily put down. This author really knows how to get your attention and keep it. This is a good book to make you wonder whodunit.
|
| Gloria |
A Dilly of a Death by Susan Wittig Albert |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this story. Susan Wittig Albert really makes you wonder who killed the pickle queen, and you're really not sure who did it until the very end of the book. This is a very good book, and I'd recommend it.
|
| Sweettech (sweettech2u@yahoo.com) |
The Maze by Catherine Coulter |
Rating: 5 Stars |
THE MAZE is a great page turner. I love this FBI thriller series, and I've read all but one. They are all great.
|
| Beth Schweikert |
On Tall Pine Lake by Dorthy Garlock |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book has you wondering from the very beginning.
|
| Lynn |
Hannibal Rising by Thomas Harris |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I zipped through this in 3 days. It's a good read. At times, you empathize with Hannibal because of the trauma he suffered at a very young age. "Revenge is a dish best served cold." I have high hopes for the movie since Mr. Harris wrote the screenplay at the same time as the novel.
|
| Krishna |
The King of Lies by John Hart |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Let me start with saying I didn't hate the book, but I didn't really like it either. If it wasn't our mystery book club read, I probably would not have finished it. The first part just dragged on, but the second part got interesting. It almost felt like the book was written by two different people. But, the book does have redeeming qualities --- it had a very interesting plot. I liked the actual twists Hart put in there for the murder. I will probably give his next book a shot, but it will have the 50 page limit on it.
|
| April Lemesh (alemesh@aol.com) |
Lisey's Story by Stephen King |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I'm having a great deal of trouble getting into this book. It may be because I was so disappointed with the way King chose to end his Dark Tower series. In any event, I am only 100 pages into it and seriously considering not finishing, something I never do.
|
| Rhea Peterson (leafan@telus.net) |
The Glass Castle: A Memoir by Jeannette Walls |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved Jeannette Walls's book. She describes her childhood without feeling sorry for herself. It shows that you can do anything you want with your life no matter how hard things are.
|
| Krishna |
Deal Breaker by Harlen Coben |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The first in the Myron Bolitar series by Coben introduces a sports agent with an interesting past. The plot and characters were well written. I would highly recommend reading this book, and I'm looking forward to reading the rest in the series.
|
| Lu |
Suite Francaise by Irene Nemirovsky |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I am almost halfway through this book, and it is a wonderfully written story about France during World War II. Terrific characters.
|
| Rhea Peterson (leafan@telus.net) |
The Road by Cormac McCarthy |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book. It is one of the best to come along in a long time. I started it and couldn't put it down. Mccarthy's writing is exceptional.
|
| Rhea Peterson (leafan@telus.net) |
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book had so many messages in it. It made me want to cry. The writing and story are excellent.
|
| Ginny |
The Collectors by David Baldacci |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another excellent novel from one of my favorite authors. Oliver Stone is back with the Camel Club, and a love interest for John Carr, who is anything but ordinary. Spies, murder, stings, gamblers, rare books --- it's all there, as is the natural lead into his next novel, which I will read.
|
| Rhea Peterson (leafan@telus.net) |
The Seat of the Soul by Gary Zukav |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Out of all the different books out there about ourselves, this one really made sense to me. I found some of his ideas hard to digest, but I took what I "got" out the book and I really try to live by it.
|
| GB |
Hannibal Rising by Thomas Harris |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I was disappointed in this. This book lacked the style and direction of Harris's other novels. It seemed fragmented. I did enjoy learning about Hannibal's background, but the novel does not "carry things off."
|
| Julie Towson |
Shore Stories by ed. by Richard Youmans |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is an anthology of short fiction, essays and poems about the New Jersey Shore. Anyone who loves to go the to beach in the summer or winter will love this book --- it makes you feel the salt breeze on your face.
|
| JaneAnn Railey (jane023@centurytel.net) |
Arkansas by Christine Lynxwiler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a good book, but not the best I've read. I was drawn to this book by the title, since I live in Arizona. The stories in this book were about 4 brothers and the women they fall in love with. I will definitely pick up another one of Christine's books. I found this one at Walmart.
|
| Michele Lauer-Bader |
The Good Husband by Gail Godwin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
While this novel is long, the strength is in the characters. There is a story but the characters really draw you in. Godwin is not an easy writer to read, but it's worth the effort.
|
| Rhea Peterson (leafan@telus.net) |
Night by Elie Wiesel |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I usually like much bigger books, but NIGHT was so profound that it didn't need to be longer. Don't miss reading this.
|
| Donna Tanner |
Vanishing Acts by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love Picoult's descriptions and analogies! She's a great writer...
|
| Janice |
The Kindness of Strangers by Katrina Kittle |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book deals with a very disturbing subject matter --- pedophiles and the abuse on their own children and others, how they recruit other children and who they target. The book is not particularly graphic in detail, but it gives you enough i fill in the blanks.
|
| Sandi Lewis |
Ammie, Come Home by Barbara Michaels |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was written quite a while ago (1968) but I've wanted to read it for a while. I finally got a copy, and I loved it. It is a ghost story that takes place in Georgetown. I've always loved Barbara Michaels, and this was a good story as usual.
|
| Renee (tfranzen2124@comcast.net) |
Cage of Stars by Jacquelyn Mitchard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A good story with the Mormon faith as the backdrop of a family dealing with the murder of their two daughters. Well done.
|
| Annie M |
Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book. It was a perfect 5. Creative, innovative, intellectual, and eruditely written!
It has nothing to do with physics. It is a mystery that takes place around a boarding school. Blue is a 17-year-old girl whose mother is dead, and her father is a professor. After travelling around the country, she ends up at a school where she is "adopted" by an elite group of students and teacher. The teacher is found dead and Blue is left doubting everything she belives in.
|
| Susan C. Dawson |
What is the What by Dave Eggers |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very moving memoir.
|
| Susan C. Dawson |
Latte Trouble (A Coffeehouse Mystery) by Cleo Coyle |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A fun-to-read escape novel that was actually written by a husband-and-wife team.
I think it's best to read the series in order, but the books can be read independently.
|
| Coral Harrison |
Cross by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This surely rates 5 stars if you like mysteries that are fast paced. It also has the human element in it too. Alex Cross is the detective and also physcholgist. His wife was murdered several years ago and he finally learns who murdered her.
|
| AnnM |
Born on a Blue Day by Daniel Tammet |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This memoir written by an autistic savant is an inspiring story of the life of an extraordinary mind. He sees numbers as colors and shapes, and can recite pi to 22,000 places! An interesting look at how the mind works.
|
| Annie M |
The Echo Maker by Richard Powers |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An accident in the plains of Nebraska inspires a scientific/ecological mystery. Written in a "stream of conciousness" manner, it adds to the exploration into strange brain disorders.
|
| Linda M. Johnson |
The Holland Suggestions by John Dunning |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of Dunning's earliest books, but the only one I have not read. It is NOT a Cliff Janeway Mystery. It is still suspenseful. Dunning is my second favorite author. This one's keeping me guessing.
|
| Bridget |
Light on Snow by Anita Shreve |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A really engrossing read. The plot was well crafted and the character development was exceptional. When I finished this book, I wanted to keep reading. I wanted to find out what was going to happen next for all of the characters.
|
| Bridget |
The Flaming Luau of Death by Jerrilyn Farmer |
Rating: 1 Stars |
Apparently, there is a whole series of books by this author. I read it because someone else picked it for my book club. I can't imagine wanting to read anything else like this book. It was terrible!
|
| Elaine |
Silent Witness by Richard North Patterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a very enjoyable book. It is the story of four high school friends and how the tragic murder of one of them affects their lives. The time then jumps to twenty-seven years later when the three remaining friends are reunited in a courtroom drama. I thought it was a little repetitive at times, but still a very interesting book.
|
| Ginny |
In the Moon of Red Ponies by James Lee Burke |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Environmental activitism and ethnic prejudice spice up this classic Burke tale. Johnny American Horse is memorable for his dedication to the cause, and the book is a good read.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Mind Prey by John Sandford |
Rating: 4 Stars |
#7 of the Davenport Series
This wasn’t bad, but it was a bit too violent. I am glad the ending was semi-happy. This thriller had good suspense. Although, I think Sandford has Davenport high on a pedestal. He always seems to ride the fine line of police work. He solves the crime and gets the bad guy, but his tactics are somewhat shady... not in a bad way, but in most crime stories I have read, the cops are always scrutinized and put under a lot of pressure to get the bad guy but in an unreasonable amount of time. And, while they are pursuing the lawbreaker, they must follow police procedure to the T. But not Davenport --- he has a lot of power in his roll.
|
| Peggy Soler |
The Second Assassin by Christopher Hyde |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A suspense thriller based on actual events. The plan is to assassinate the King and Queen of England on American soil. The plot thickens and the race is on to try and stop the perfect assassin.
|
| Folakemi Ehinmisan |
Coast Road by Barbara Delinsky |
Rating: 5 Stars |
COAST ROAD by Barbara Delinsky is a book I'd recommend any day! It's exclusive and unique in the sense that it's written from the male point of view, exploring the male psychy and emotions. It opens us up to the fact that men could be vulnerable too, and shows the male weakness in the eye of the hero, and how he's able to convert his weakness to strength, which is something really rare. The book is fantastic and it enables women to understand their men better, and vice versa. It shows the ups and downs in relationships and family, especially broken homes and how they can make things work. COAST ROAD is definitely a must read. I'm personally recommending it to everyone. Read it, you'd be glad you did!
|
| Chardelle Hull (chardellehull@gmail.com) |
The Audacity of Hope by Barak Obama |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The clear syntax made this book easy to read and follow. THE AUDACITY OF HOPE contained valuable background information on how our government functions.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Heather's Gift by Lora Leigh |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In this continuation of the Men of August series, Ms. Leigh gifts us with mystery, suspense, love, romance, and very hot and detailed erotic sex.
The third brother, Sam is haunted by his past, as he falls in love with Heather --- who's job it is to guard Sam as the August family is still being threatened by someone from their dark and abusive past.
From the moment you open this book until the last page you are caught up in the sexually charged spell-binding suspense.
Ms. Leigh is one of my favorite authors --- I only wish there was another brother in this series.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Wolf Tales lll by Kate Douglas |
Rating: 5 Stars |
There is a warning on the back cover of this book --- it is there for a reason! This book IS hot!!!
In this continuing story of the Chanku, we are reunited with Jacob and Shannon (who we met in the previous book), along with updates on Luc, Tia, and the rest of the pack.
Ms. Douglas' characters are well-written, with some of the most strong and loveable alpha males you will ever come across.
This is a highly erotic, sexually charged book. I can't wait for WOLF TALES IV!
|
| Folakemi Ehinmisan |
To The Nines by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you're the type who loves witty, chatty, fun-packed books full of laughs, then TO THE NINES is what I'd recommend. It's about the joys of a steady relationship that holds no promises of marriage. It's carefree, but it's exciting. The youths mostly would find it very interesting. It brings us closer to reality as it explores the likes, dislikes, mode of attitude, and lifestyle of an average outgoing youth. TO THE NINES is a book you wouldn't want to drop till you're through. Read it.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Death Du Jour by Kathy Reichs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Temperance Brennan is back in her second adventure with this fast-paced suspense, written by practicing forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs. This book had a lot going on with interconnected stories and characters. it was fun unraveling the mysteries.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Sarah's Seduction by Lora Leigh |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In this second book in the Men of August series, we find Brock seducing his love, Sarah --- who he has been waiting for over 6 years.
We learn more about the brothers' abusive, dark past and their secret desires. This is an extremely hot and erotic story with well- written characters.
|
| Christy (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Alana's Magic Lamp by Sahara Kelly |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a fun, lighthearted magical read with plenty of passion and adventure. The first book in the Guardians of Time series has well-written characters, and the story was rich with description. Sami and Hari left me wishing for my own Djinns.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Our Endangered Values by Jimmy Carter |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I very much liked President Carter's view on many of the "hot topics of the day ---abortion, global warming, stem cell research, war, religion, and the government. But, I felt lost at times with Carter's erudite wording.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Crazy '08 by Cait Murphy |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An amazing book centering on the 1908 baseball season, but one that explores the beginnings of baseball and the evolution of the game. An interesting picture behind the scenes in the cities that housed the teams.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
The Measure of a Man by Sidney Poitier |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Vivid picture of the problems and poverty faced by 20th century African Americans. Interesting perspective of "white" America.
|
| Raye |
Mud In My Heart by Melinda Keen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
MUD IN MY HEART provides a realistic window into the lives of the inhabitants of the Philippines. This is a remarkable story of strength, forgiveness, and love. I thought it was written beautifully, and that the description and attention to detail was amazing. A touching, worthwhile read for people of all ages.
|
| Noreen Brown |
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is hard to put down. You want to find out what happens next, even though at times you are angry, furious or sad.
It's amazing what these children lived through.
|
| Kathy Kasten |
Virgin Earth by Philippa Gregory |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This sequel to EARTHLY JOYS follows the family of the gardener of King Charles I to Virginia and back again to England in the 1600s. I like it a lot, and at times found it hard to put down.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
The Handmaid and the Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I very much enjoyed this look at the birth of Jesus from the perspective of Joseph. Also, it was very interesting to witness the faith of Mary. This short book just touched the surface.
|
| Kathy Kasten |
The Squire's Tale by Margaret Frazer |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book takes place in 1400s England, with a nun named Dame Frevisse, who is very good at solving murders, as the central figure. There is a whole series and I have enjoyed the four that I have read very much.
|
| Trish Thomas |
Lead Us into Temptation by James B. Twitchell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A send-up of consumerism. Twitchell explains the history of shopping, which did not even exist before 1850, as items were made on demand, other than what was sold by peddlers with a pack or ship's chandlers. He covers advertising in the 1900s and the mid-century rise of the middle class after World War II, as well as the advent of the enclosed shopping mall. If you love to shop, it's a great book --- or if you hate to shop!
|
| Heather Murdock (h_owens99@hotmail.com) |
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I couldn't put it down. I read the book in 2 days!!!
|
| Georgia |
City of Dreams by Beverly Swerling |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A great historical novel of old New York.
|
| Marsha |
Just One Look by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a fast-paced thriller full of twists and turns. I challenge you to see them all coming. It's a story about memory, family, truth and revenge --- juicy subjects!
|
| Lorraine MacLeod (Cowlady358@hotmail.com) |
Baker Towers by Jennifer Haigh |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This novel follows the five Novak children as they come of age in the decade following World War II. It is a story of tragedy, excitement, and change in a small mining town of Pennsylvania. The book was so well written I did not want it to end.
|
| Heather MacLeod (Hmacleod645@hotmail.com) |
Mrs. Kimble by Jennifer Haigh |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Three women from different backgrounds each marry the elusive Mister Kimble. What caused these women to fall for the same man? This novel keeps the reader totally involved in the story.
|
| Sandra F. |
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a great book in the style of old- fashioned melodramas. There are secrets, ancient buildings, hidden books, family feuds, etc. This is a translation from Spanish and is very well done.
|
| Marsha |
Mapping the Edge by Sarah Dunant |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A capable woman goes missing and we ponder the question, "How well do we know each other --- and even ourselves?" This thriller is a work of dazzling suspense. It will keep you enthralled.
|
| Judy O. |
Teach With Your Heart by Erin Gruwell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a nonfiction book about the Freedom Writers, who were Gruwell's students when she taught in Long Beach, CA. How the author took this ragtag group of kids and turned them into a fully functioning family of writers is heartwarming and inspiring. I could not put the book down, because it was so fascinating. It makes me want to see the movie The Freedom Writers.
|
| Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net) |
The Innocent Man by John Grisham |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I am halfway through this book and feel that Grisham should stick with fiction. The main subject of the story, Ron Williamson, is a sad case. He has a failed baseball career, has become an alcoholic and drug addict, and has severe mental problems. He is also charged with a murder he didn't commit. The story keeps bouncing around these facts, continually returning to Ron's mental state and the desperate attempts by an inept police department to pin a girl's murder on him. The police seem to give no attention to the most likely suspect, and even Grisham hardly mentions him. The continual rehashing of Williamson's drug, alcohol, and mental problems are getting tiresome. I'm hoping for a dramatic ending to this book.
|
| Teresa Steinert (steinertt@aol.com) |
The Elegant Gathering of White Snows by Kris Radish |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'm loving this story of women walking away from their lives, but finding themselves.
|
| Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I really loved this book. It is a translation from the original Spanish. The characters are all interesting and memorable. Suspense is the order of the day, as well as eroticism, tragedy, and excitement throughout. I would rush to a bookstore and buy this today.
|
| Robert Yaltman |
Orchids to Die For by James Halon & Catherine Burr |
Rating: 5 Stars |
ORCHIDS TO DIE FOR is full of great intrigue and romance with strong and dynamic characters, both male and female. This fast-paced read is about revenge for a Senator's daughter who died at the hands of a terrorist while employed with the CIA. A great plot that leaves the reader wanting more... much more! Hurry, sequel...
|
| Ricki (rickimc@aol.com) |
The Death Collector by Justin Richards |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a really fun young YA read. It kind of reminds me of FROM THE MIXED-UP FILES OF MRS. BASIL E. FRANKWEILER. It's a good Victorian mystery/suspense/horror novel that will also appeal to adults who like to indulge their inner child every once in a while.
|
| Melanie (melanrein@aol.com) |
Triptych by Karin Slaughter |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a great book --- I cannot say enough positive things about it. The story starts with the violent slaying of a prostitute and the resolution of the mystery unfolds in a way that I completely didn't expect. Highly recommended!
|
| Denise |
The Pursuit of Alice Thrift by Elinor Lipman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Follow the sweet and funny story of smart, socially clueless Doctor Alice Thrift as she blunders her way through friendships, families, work, life, and love. Did you ever spend any time feeling sorry for someone who graduated second in her class in medical school? You will. Will Alice ever be a surgeon? Is the slick fudge salesman as besotted with her as he claims? By the end of the book, you'll find yourself so hoping for good things for Alice. And you will never look at the wedding announcements in the New York Times quite the same way.
|
| Rachel Cropper |
Lacy by Diana Palmer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Diana Palmer is just a wonderful author. From writing contemporaries to writing historical novels, she is always at her best. I am and have been a huge fan of hers for years!
|
| Liza |
All Mortal Flesh by Julia Spencer-Fleming |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I love her books! They take place in a small town in Northeast. The sleuths are a female Episcopal priest (who used to fly helicopters in the Air Force) and the town's police chief. There has been a smoldering unacted-upon romance brewing between them for several books now. This installment opens with the chief's wife found murdered, and all clues point to the chief as prime suspect.
|
| James Halon |
Dancing With My Imagination by Sheila Roy |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is fine poetry with a flair for the fictional world of Vampirism. It also looks into the unusual fictions. An enjoyable read.
|
| Carol M |
Speak No Evil by Allison Brennan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I'm a big fan of murder thrillers. In this book, a psychopath is killing college girls who he finds on the Internet. The detectives trying to solve the murders also have their own histories that need to be dealt with. SPEAK NO EVIL is a suspense-filled book that you won't want to put down. I'm looking forward to reading the other books in this trilogy.
|
| JaneAnn Railey (jane023@centurytel.net) |
Back to the Bedroom by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I just finished Janet Evanovich's BACK TO THE BEDROOM. I've wanted to read her for a long time and picked up four of her books last week. This is first one I've read, and I really enjoyed this light, funny romantic story with a bit of mystery. To quote Janet, "Romance novels are birthday cake and life is often peanut butter and jelly. I think everyone should have lots of delicious romance novels laying around for the times when the peanut butter of life gets stuck to the roof of your mouth." Now ain't that just so!!
|
| Marsha |
Perfect Match by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Picoult tackles family issues that are difficult to imagine, but handles them in a manner that draws you in and makes you consder the issues. This would make a good book club selection. How far should a Mother go to protect her child from harm? Is justice always served by the court system? What happens when you take actions that are morally wrong?
|
| Mary Schreiner |
Monkeewrench by P.J. Tracy |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of the best thrillers I have read in a long time. There are great characters, clever dialogue, and it keeps you guessing right up to the very end.
|
| Linda M. Johnson |
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is Ms. Walls's memoir. I can't believe anyone could live like this. I am constantly amazed at how some people actually live. I can't put this book down. It tugs at your heart for the kids in this family.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Random Acts of Badness by Danny Bonaduce |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I have always liked Danny Bonaduce. I did watch "The Partridge Family" when I was a kid. I commend him for being so open and honest. I see this as a bounce back story, because he's gone from childhood actor to a has-been, to a popular radio celebrity, with drug addiction in between. He has a happy ending of a rough life. I like these kind of stories, especially his honesty and the ability to laugh at himself. He's a great guy, who's written a good book.
|
| Rachel Cropper |
Sizzling by Susan Mallery |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I read her book IRRESISTIBLE and enjoyed it so much I just had to read SIZZLING too. Current playboy, Reid Buchanan is a real hoot!
|
| Kathy Bailey |
The Audacity of Hope by Barack Obama |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Great book --- well-written and inspirational.
|
| Mary Ellen |
Judge & Jury by James Patterson, Andrew gross |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another exciting page turner by these two authors. This easy, one-day read is the story of a mafia don, Dominic Cavello, and the hunt by FBI agent Nick Pelisante to bring him to justice. Excellent read!
|
| Cat |
By the Time You Read This by Giles Blunt |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Canadian writer Blunt keeps getting better all the time. Unusual suicides are occuring in Algonquin Bay and one of the tragedies is Detective Cardinal's wife. He tenaciously pursues his belief that she was the victim of murder rather than manic-depressive illness. His partner Lise Delorme, meanwhile, has to track down a young girl that has been a victim of a sexual predator. BY THE TIME YOU READ THIS is a great crime novel that will have you running to the bookstore for all his previous books, which are all outstanding.
|
| Nunu In Niagara |
Hide by Lisa Gardner |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the story of a young woman who remembers her childhood, moving from city to city and having different names each time. She knew her Father was running from something, but didn't know what. Reading the paper one day, she sees her name as one of the 6 bodies found in an underground grave on the site of an old mental hospital. She goes to the police and the story takes off with you turning each page with a racing heart. A great read.
|
| Pam C |
Something From the Oven by Laura Shapiro |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a lighthearted, eye-opening book about the marketing of food after World War II. Did you know they tried to sell us on canned ham sticks and canned hamburgers! There are also stories about Betty Crocker and Julia Childs and a host of other cooking, baking, sauteeing wannabees. I'm going to keep this book. It's hilarious!
|
| Tamara |
Extra Virgin by Annie Hawes |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This may deserve 4 stars. It's a memoir about 2 sisters buying a piece of run-down land on the Italian Riviera with olive trees on it. It has fun parts and a lot of words. I have been reading it for a year on and off.
|
| Sandy |
Everything Must Go by Elizabeth Flock |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is the story of Henry Powell's life. As weeks turn into months and months into years, the shop where Henry works becomes his only window to the world, where he marks time by the milestones of his former classmates' lives. The only thing I found lacking was the ending. I wanted to know what Henry did with the last part of his life. Maybe she will write another book?
|
| Bill McDougall (billmcdougall@comcast.net) |
The Autobiography of Martin Luther King by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., ed. by Clayton C |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is a chronicle of the life of one of the world's greatest civil rights leaders. He was also one of the world's greatest thinkers, philosopphers, orators and ministers. In this book, the civil rights movement has its beginnings in Montgomery, Alabama, where Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white man. Rev. Dr. King had just taken his first position as a minister at the Dexter Avenue Baptist Church, across the town square from the capitol steps where Jefferson Davis took the oath of office of the President of the Confederate States. Montgomery was known up until that point as the, "Cradle of the Confederacy," and is now also known as the, "Cradle of the Civil Rights Movement." This book is important for all Americans, (and, really, everyone worldwide) to read, in order to understand our history, and how to make our world a better place for future generations.
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| Sandi Lewis |
Black Cherry Blues by James Lee Burke |
Rating: 4 Stars |
BLACK CHERRY BLUES is my first book by this author. I am almost finished and am enjoying it. His writing is quite lyrical and a pleasure to read. I can feel I am there in the story. It is violent, though.
This is the 2nd or 3rd installment in a series that invoIves Dave Robicheaux, a former police officer with some scary friends (?), who finds himself framed for murder. I will be reading more by James Lee Burke.
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| Alexis |
Web of Evil by J. A. Jance |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I usually enjoy Jance's Sheriff Brady novels, but I didn't care for this new female character. Also, I thought it wasn't as well written as usual, and naturally, she solves everything.
|
| Sue |
The Measure of a Man by Sidney Poitier |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I was most interested in reading this book but was disappointed in that after finishing it, I don't feel I know any more about the man than when I started.
|
| Sherri Randall (sherrib@rocketmail.com) |
Cold Rock River by J. L. Miles |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This story takes place in the 1960s in the South. We follow the life of a young pregant woman and the twists and turns her life takes. This is intertwined with an old journal kept by a Civil War slave woman whose life was not easy. A very good read and holds your interest throughout.
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| Tamara |
The Tortilla Curtain by T. Coraghessan Boyle |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An amazing, sometimes comical, sometimes tragic contemporary story. It tackles the American dream that can be a nightmare, cultures that misunderstand each other, and the struggles of the haves and the have nots.
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| kathleenec |
The Old Wine Shades by Martha Grimes |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It is an intriguing puzzle in a puzzle.
|
| bookczuk |
Double Shot by Diane Mott Davidson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I started this book years ago and wasn't impressed. But since then, I've discovered listening to audio books in the car when I drive, and one of the books I listened to was in this series. Wonder of wonders, I enjoyed it. So, when a copy of this came my way, I thought it only fair to give it a second chance. It's not bad --- a quick, light read, with some humor, good food, and a decent plot. Go Goldy!
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| bookczuk |
Sweet Home Carolina by T. Lynn Ocean |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Okay, so it's a little bit like THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA meets WALKING ACROSS EGYPT --- the resident chick lit PR/ad person gets plunked down in the middle of a folksy town with quirky characters. But, it works it it's own way. Unfortunately for me, I spent half the time reading the book trying to figure out where on the Carolina coast the author was imagining Rumton to be. But, I really like books about the Carolinas so this was fun.
|
| Ginny |
The Strangler by William Landay |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The reviews and interview with the author are on this site, and the book is wonderful. A true period piece, though the period is only decades ago. Landay's characters are multidimensional, the backdrop is the Kennedy assassination era and the Boston Strangler case, the setting is Boston. The book is outstanding!
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| G Mims (gmims@gmail.com) |
The Good, The Bad, And The Undead by Kim Harrison |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Bounty hunting business has never been more complicated for witch Rachel Morgan. While working on a case with the Cincinnati police department, Rachel discovers her own potential power. One result of her discovery is that the hunter becomes the hunted. It will take all of her knowledge and cunning to keep from becoming a victim herself.
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| Ginny (VCHL819@aol.com) |
Killer Instinct by Joseph Finder |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is really creepy. Imagine meeting someone who wants to help you get ahead; then, terrible things start happening to anyone who's in your way, and then, all of a sudden, it's your turn?
This is another winner by Finder, who really knows how to wake up that someone-looking-over-your-shoulder fear.
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| Teri W |
Nature Girl by Carl Hiaasen |
Rating: 3 Stars |
NATURE GIRL is full of Hiaasen's usual comedy, characters, and frantic pace. He continues to try and save Florida in his not-so-subtle way.
There are too many chararacters and too many clichés. He's done better, but this will amuse some.
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| Julie Towson |
740 Park by Michael Gross |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fascinating story of the world's richest, best-known and lusted-after apartment building in New York City. It delves into the lives of the people who lived there.
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| Pattie Berryhill (pattiberr@aol.com) |
Nature Girl by Carl Hiaasen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am stabilized on meds for Bipolar Disorder, so it was fun for me to read the exploits of the main character who is an unmedicated Bipolar. I can certainly remember when I was manic like she is. It was an enjoyable read for me.
|
| Beth Schweikert |
Perfect by Judith McNaught |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book feels very realistic, unlike some other suspense books.
|
| Wanda |
The Bone Vault by Linda Fairstein |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This was a pretty good book, but it was rather long (500 pages). I normally love the bigger books, but in this case, I don't think it was necessary to draw it out so much. Otherwise, it has a good storyline.
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| Elizabeth Padgett (lizpad44@wmconnect.com) |
The Prison Angel by Mary Jordon and Kevin Sullivan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great book about prisoners learning to become better with love and respect from a wonderful lady who lived in the Mexican prison. She also taught the victims of crimes to forgive.
|
| Ronna Lord |
Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book for so many reasons. I thought the writing was beautiful, almost like reading a novel/poem!! I have enjoyed his previous books very much also, so I was not disappointed with this one.
I like the "mystery" aspect of this book, in which the main character alludes to things in the future but does not discuss them at the time she was talking. I really liked Kathy's personality, such as her straight-forward way of accepting things, while still always always being willing to check out the unknown. I enjoyed her introspection about her life and the lives of her friends, as well as the relationship with Ruth and Tommy.
The concept of the book made me so very sad, but I think that it could be so very true. I think that our society is just like what is portrayed in this book. As long as we have what we want and need, we are not one bit concerned with who or wht we hurt in the process. Out or sight and out of mind is very typical, I believe. I also believe that people define their idea of "morality," which very well may not agree with another person's. This happens a great deal with me these days too.
I think that he made a science fiction book seem like an historical fact of future life --- but, hopefully this will not be the case. The idea of making the "hurt" of others seem to be fine because we are trying to make it better reminded me of times of slavery. A household slave might very well be a blood relative of the master, so he/she was given a "better" job --- though still enslaved and told what to do!!!!
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| Sunny |
In Cold Blood by Truman Capote |
Rating: 5 Stars |
How could I give it any less than five stars? I don't know how I've gone my whole life without reading this incredible book about this most heinous crime: the cold-blooded murder of a family by two drifters with no hearts, souls, or remorse. The perfect book!
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| Coral Harrison |
Echo Park by Michael Connelly |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another good mystery that is hard to put down. ECHO PARK is a continuing story about Harry Bosch, whose unusual abilities help him to get his man.
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| Kathleen Smith (Lvchoclat@aol.com) |
Leaving Church by Barbara Brown Taylor |
Rating: 5 Stars |
As someone who has been involved in church administration and worked with many ministers during her life, I found that this book gave me a new insight into the challenges faced by those who decide to enter the clergy, leading up to the author's decision to leave.
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| kathleenec |
Brother Odd by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is 3rd in the Odd Thomas series, and just as good as the first one.
|
| Ginny |
Can't Wait to Get to Heaven by Fannie Flagg |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Is heaven really a place where you re-enter your life at its most comfortable and enjoyable stage, filled with all of the people you knew and loved, and where houses that have been razed in past years reappear in their original comfortable state? For Elner Shimfissle, a truly enjoyable small-town- USA fixture, that seems to be the case. This was a funny, touching, charming, and a great read!
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| Debra Guyetet (Debby236@aol.com) |
Master of Swords by Angela Knight |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Angela Knight writes parnormal at its best. Using the Legend of Arthur only further increases the enjoyability of these.
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| Ronna Lord |
Kabul Beauty School by Deborah Rodriguez |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Thanks for sending me an advanced copy of Sandra Rodriguez's book, KABUL BEAUTY SCHOOL. This book is sure to be a big winner with readers! It was frustrating and heartbreaking at times, but it was also funny and entertaining at others. These last two words are not adjectives often connected with Afghanistan these days. This book reads like a combination of THE KITE RUNNER and THE NO 1 LADIES' DETECTIVE AGENCY. It was much more readable than the advertised READING LOLITA IN TEHRAN, but every bit as informative, if not more so!! It was honest, haunting, and extremely readable --- more like a work of fiction than nonfiction. As a reader, I felt that I was engaging with real people whom I could completely connect with in their dreams and actions. I felt a connection with the women of Kabul that I have never felt before. They are not so different from us in their hopes and also in their failings. This book spells out life in Kabul, especially with the women, that touches the human heart.
Deborah Rodriguez shows us that everyone can definitely reach out and help their fellow beings with the skills and talents that are known to us in particular. Nothing is out of the range of knowledge, fellowship, and friendship with people who are living in seemingly "strange" and "unknown" places from our everyday lives. Differences are worked out and life melds these women together.
Deborah taught in her Kabul Beauty School, and she also learned from her experiences at this "cross cultural" school. The book also made me appreciate the Democratic society that I am privileged to live in here in the USA. We may argue amongst ourselves, but we carry on with each other in civility to accomplish needs and wishes. This book made me feel so hopeful for Afghanistan until the "surprise ending." Then again, this book also made me feel hopeful that maybe this time is just another growing block for the people who have become Deborah's friends in Kabul.
KABUL BEAUTY SCHOOL is a really great book that should run through book groups quickly and joyfully!!
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| Ronna Lord (ronnalord@msn.com) |
Comes A Horseman by Robert Liparulo |
Rating: 5 Stars |
COMES A HORSEMAN by Robert Liparulo was definitely a book to rival the works of Dan Brown. I started it one evening, then read it the next day and did not stop until I had finished all 484 pages in the wee hours of the next morning. I will definitely be on the lookout for more of his work.
The connection with this book was 1) a man and woman , FBI agents, who develop a relationship as the story went along. AND....I really cared what was happening with them. They had different points of view about life, as well as different views about how to approach challenging points in their case. They approached everything with abandon, and we were privy to their thought processes along the way.
AND connection 2) was that this story was based on another set of prophecies: those of the coming of the "Antichrist", from different writings.
The story starts out with a serial killer and his well trained and illegal wolf/dogs. Connecting the murders brings up strange threads that connect these killings to a secret society. The FBI comes into the story because the murders cross state lines. Eventually the case crosses world boundaries, the Vatican, the United Nations, and a secret society of different people who maintain membership because of their wealth, knowledge, and power. It eventually comes to the libraries of the Vatican, and goes to another underground network of cave tunnels and rooms where the future of the world is being influenced, and determined by those who hope to find the Antichrist and plug into his power and wealth to control the world. More realistic than futuristic in the story line of this book! The author claims NO truths in this book, but it is full or truths and real possibilities that adds more mystery/thrills of the book.
|
| Margaret Ball |
Tattered Bonds by Jean Cush Love |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In TATTERED BONDS, Jean Cush Love explores family bonds that are tattered by child molestation. Eleven-year-old Stephanie Barnes's youth comes crashing down when she is molested at such a tender age. What do you do when your molester infiltrates every aspect of your life? TirIed of living with the terror, Stephanie tries counseling to try to get a grip on the downward spiral her life has taken, as well as to try to save her marriage. She learns that in order to heal, she must bare her soul at the risk of hurting those closest to her. All her personal relationships are damaged because of one horrible day in her life.
I enjoyed reading this book because it not only focuses on the damage that was caused by the molestation, but it also describes the healing process. This is an issue that we hear more and more about in today's society, and it must be properly addressed. The author did an excellent job of blending the lives of the characters in this book. When I first picked it up, I assumed it was written for drama's sake, but I was pleasantly surprised. The author also did a good job of tying up the all of the loose ends, revealing why all of the character act the way they do.
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| Ronna Lord |
Web of Evil by J. A. Jance |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In WEB OF EVIL, J. A. Jance has surpassed her previously terrific best-selling books. Ali Reynolds, with her cutlooseblog.com, really adds a modern touch to this series. The author's web site with that same address is fun and informative also.
Innocent Ali seems to get herself into trouble wherever she turns, but she's an expert at getting herself out of these troubles. Ali is every woman's dream --- she's fun and loyal, she thinks on her feet, and is daring enough to do what she deems is necessary.
Having gotten her new life together in Arizona, Ali makes a quick trip back to Las Angeles to sign divorce papers and finalize her wrongful dismissal suit from anchoring a TV news show. But, when a car is left on the train tracks with Ali's husband tied up in the trunk, Ali's life takes a very complicated turn. Becoming the new best friend of her husband's very pregnant mistress is not in her plans either. The fun and fast-paced sleuthing continues with the addition of Ali's policeman friend from Arizona. Every answer seems to bring on another dead body or some heart-racing problems for Ali and company.
Ali is my new superhero, and I think many of us will want to be just like her --- or at least become her friend. Jance outdid herself with this book, and she just seems to get better and better as a writer!! Ali wins big, and so do the readers of WEB OF EVIL!!
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| Ronna Lord |
Bad Blood by Linda Fairstein |
Rating: 5 Stars |
BAD BLOOD by Linda Fairstein is a spectacular book of great charm, intellect and superbly puzzling mysteries that capture the reader from page one!! The psychological, forensic, and physical clues were written into the story just as an outstanding prosecutor would build up the evidence in a trial. Instead of being glued to the TV, I was glued to my chair with book in hand, until the final words on the final page. Information about the New York underground water tunnels and subway system added an extra dimension to this thriller --- as did information about cancer and blood work. Excellent characters added a warmth that was needed to add balance to the book. Often, when I start in the middle of a series from an author, I feel that I need to go back to the first book just so I can know what is happening with the characters that are brought back in the later books that I am reading. With this one, I need to go back to Fairstein's earlier books because I just fell in love with Alex, Mike and Lem and I want to see how their interactions played out in earlier installments!!!
With Firstling's research and explanations, I would gladly have her as my defense attorney, but please keep her writing books for my entertainment instead!!! Her carefully layered plot and clues built one on top of another. She built this book to a fevered pitch, yet the only thing that the reader could expect was the unexpected!! This was one of the best crime novels where police procedurals, law, geography, and sexually violent criminal information worked together to make a perfectly completed puzzle!!! I cannot wait until the next book comes out!!!
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| Marlene Rosen |
The Places In Between by Rory Stewart |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a fascinating true account of Mr. Stewart's walk through Afghanistan. The book provides an introduction to the people, their culture, religion, and politics...
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| Coral Harrison (charris@pctelecom.us) |
Limitations by Scott Turow |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a shorter book by Turow, but not one of his best. This about a Judge who is stalked, and how it turns out.
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| Audrey Burke |
Hannibal Rising by Thomas Harris |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I am currently reading this book and it's hard to put down. It begins with Hannibal's childhood and I have found it well written. I can't wait to get back to it.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
The Fortunate Son by Walter Mosley |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I really enjoyed this book. It’s a story about Tommy and Eric. Tommy is a black boy who is born with a hole in his lung. His unmarried mother stays at the hospital every day after work to be with him. A doctor notices her and one night asks if he can drive her home. They develop a relationship, and the doctor suggests she take Tommy home to live with them.
Eric, his infant son, is motherless. She died giving birth. Tommy’s mother is the only one that can sooth the big, restless boy. Not long after Tommy and his mother move in with the Doctor, Tommy’s mother dies. Life becomes difficult for both boys after that. Tommy’s real father takes Tommy to live with him. He doesn’t want to go, but since the doctor wasn’t married to his mother, he has no choice. Tommy’s life becomes really hard after that. Eric, on the other hand, is smart, athletic and handsome. Life seems to come to him. He has beautiful girlfriends, he is successful and he seems to have the perfect life. But, he misses his “brother” and “mother”. They were the only people he loved, the only ones he felt close to. It takes years before they meet again. Tommy, who has had it hard selling drugs, being homeless, unhealthy and weak and running from the law, seems to be the unfortunate one. But is he really? This story really makes you think about seeing life from the outside. You would assume the way one lives dictates their fortune, but this book makes you see fortune comes from the inside and how you view life. I was a little puzzled at the end, but overall, I loved this story.
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| Mary Ann Weaver (honeywest66@hotmail.com) |
Ines of my Soul by Isabel Allende |
Rating: 5 Stars |
When Ines, a Spanish seamstress, begins her real-life journey as a conquistadora and founder of Chili, she was a young married woman seeking her husband who was off in search of gold and riches. Finding he was dead, she becomes involved with Pedro de Valdivia, a famous 16th-century war hero, and together they fight to conquer Chili and found the city of Santiago. Even the characters' names, Ines, Valdivia and her last husband Don Rodrigo evoke romance and history. There is much to be learned about history in this book. It was difficult to put down. I enjoyed it to the last page.
|
| Jane |
Wild Fire by Nelson DeMille |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another fast-moving thriller by DeMille --- a terrific read!
|
| Belinda |
Light on Snow by Anita Shreve |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Excellent writing and reading.
|
| Reva Wamsley (prwamsley@adelphia.net) |
S is for Silence by Sue Grafton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
In this book, Kinsey searches for a woman who disappeared 34 years ago. All of the books in this series are good, and this is one of the best.
|
| Lela Fox, Missouri |
Loving Constance by Lyn Cote |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoyed this book. It is just a simple romance with a little suspense. It keeps you wondering, but yet, the romance goes on.
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| Denise Fooce (dfooce@peoplepc.com) |
Born on a Blue Day by Daniel Tammet |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very interesting and true account of an autistic savant. He isn't the real "Rain Man," but he gets to meet the real one, which is described in the book. It was hard for me to truly understand how Daniel views the world, but it was a really interesting account of his life to this point.
|
| Lynn |
Glass Castles by Jeanette Walls |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a true story of the author's life growing up in a dysfunctional family with mentally ill parents, and shows us all how determination and resourcefulness can help children survive. This amazing story made me laugh and cry at the same time.
|
| Kathy |
The Birth House by Ami McKay |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A wonderful story of a young woman in Nova Scotia who becomes a midwife. The book also portrays the struggles of women to take control of their bodies and their births, and mixes traditional medicine with the emerging, not-so-marvelous modern medicine.
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| Irene - Saratoga Springs NY (cyeates@nycap.rr.com) |
The Teahouse Fire by Ellis Avery |
Rating: 5 Stars |
What a book! It starts in Paris, continues on to New York City, and finally, to Kyoto, Japan. Aurelia Bernard, an orphan, and a child born to her Christian missionary uncle's unmarried sister, stumbles into the world of the Japanese Teahouses... I will leave it there. This is a book to savour; one you do not want to end!!
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| Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com) |
Malicious Intent by Kathyrn Fox |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoyed this new author from down under. She is a pathologist and forensic doctor who is called in to help on cases. If you like
Patricia Cornwell or the CSI shows, you will like this. And, its always fun to read lingo from Australia.
|
| Monica |
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Predictable at times, but still enjoyable. The characters are a little too noble to be believable. DEAR JOHN is a feel-good book with a strong message about love.
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| Cathey (dbinpgh@aol.com) |
Friendship Test by Elizabeth Noble |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a great story about friendships! I loved all the characters and really enjoyed reading this!
|
| Estelle99 |
Break No Bones by Kathy Reichs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the 2nd of Kathy Reichs's books I have read and I am hooked! Temperance Brennan is a forensic anthropologist who is filling in for a colleague in an archaeology field school in South Carolina. A fresh skeleton among old bones in a native American burial ground begins the excitement as the body count rises. This shows what information can be learned from bones! Fascinating!
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| Mary Ellen |
Salem Falls by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Jack St. Bride is falsely accused of sexual assault on one of his students and goes to prison. He relocates when he gets out to Salem Falls with the hope of starting a new life, but his past follows him, and once again finds himelf falsely accused of the same charges. This is a very interesting story of the life and trials of someone innocent. Jodi is exceptional at telling the tale.
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| Audrey Burke |
The Power of a Positive No by Willim Ury |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a great book for people who have trouble saying no to people. These tips are good for everyday life, not just business.
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| Monica |
Predator by Patricia Cornwell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book has the traditional gruesome descriptions Cornwell is known for making. It has a surprise ending --- all the qualities you want in a thriller.
|
| Lynn |
Oh My Stars by Lorna Landvik |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love Lorna Landvik's writing and couldn't wait to start this new one of hers. Once I picked it up I couldn't put it down. It's a believeable story of defeat, survival, love, and family, all of which makes us laugh and cry.
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| Pam C |
Implant by F. Paul Wilson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Dr. Duncan Lathrum has found the perfect way to pay back the boys in the Senate for ruining his career and his life. He's becomes a plastic surgeon with a "miracle" implant to help healing. I won't tell you any more, you'll have to read it to find out!
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| Dian Anderson |
The War Bride's Tale by Manja Beukman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was written in the 50s, and I wish I had read it 40 years ago. I was the daughter of a very unhappy war bride (who finally went back to England to be "amongst her own kind"). Finally, my daughter and I have a better understanding of what my mother might actually have felt. She would never tell me and just left. Now I realize it wasn't really our fault.
A recommendation for all children of unhappy war brides.
|
| Monica |
H.R.H. by Danielle Steel |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Like her more recent books, the plot is not terribly deep. This is a good escape novel, complete with descriptions of a very upper class life. It does have a humanitarian message.
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| Pam C |
Don't Be Afraid by Rebecca Drake |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Meredith Chomsky happens to be sell real estate properties. She also happens to be around each time a killing happens inside her houses. Now, the killer has decided he likes her and wants her for his next victim.
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| Rosalie Leon |
Remembering Blue by Connie May Fowler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Her descriptions awe me, they take me to the scene of the island and the expanse of water and nature. Lyrical.
|
| Marlene Nese |
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book. It is a story about the relationship between two Chinese girls growing up with the traditions of loo-tang, golden lilies and nu-shu. Any woman who has had strong female friendships for many years will enjoy this book.
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| Cheri O |
Cell by Stephen King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Once again, Stephen King takes us on a macabre journey, this time using a common item most of us have, the cell phone. It really makes you wonder if something like this could actually happen.
|
| Donna |
Unnatural Exposure by Patricia Cornwell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you have never read one of Patricia Cornwell's books, you are missing out. UNNATURAL EXPOSURE is another excellent novel featuring Dr. Kay Scarpatta that keeps you on the edge of your seat and has many twists and turns. In this mystery, gruesome bodies are covered with some type of disease, and they have to work fast to uncover what it is and if it is a terrifying weapon...
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| JaneAnn Railey (jane023@centurytel.net) |
The Night Journal by Elizabeth Crook |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I just started this, but I became interested just by reading the back cover. It's about four generations of women, starting in the Southwest and through diaries written by the main character's great grandmother, and ending with today's women, reading and finding explosive secrets.
|
| Marsha |
Plum Lovin' by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This short novel (164 pages) just whets your appetite for a longer journey with Stephanie Plum. Although it was a fun read, it was closer to fluff than fun.
|
| Sheila D |
Case Histories by Kate Atkinson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A good mystery, but so much more! Atkinson writes with humor, grace, and insight. Her characters are three-dimensional and wonderously human. Loved it.
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| M. LaDue (laduea@frontiernet.net) |
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I really liked this book. The characters had such a good relationship in the beginning, and with one decision, everything changed.
|
| Barbara Stahr |
Left for Dead by Kevin O'Brien |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the first book that I have read by this author, and am going to look for more by him. There is a lot of suspense in this book, and I find that I can not put it down. It maintains a high level of interest.
|
| Gordon Wilson |
Happy Are The Merciful by Andrew M Greeley |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I have enjoyed many, many books by Father Greeley over the years, and his series on the Beatitudes stars Father "Blackie" Ryan --- a man so invisible you'd have trouble spotting him in a phone booth. He may not stand out in a crowd, but he uses that skill to solve crime when asked by his boss --- on earth, that is --- the Archbishop of Chicago. This time, the good Father is faced with a true locked-room murder; the bodies are found inside a locked bedroom and the only key is found inside the room! Did the adopted daughter do it? After all, she is the one who stands to gain the family fortune. To find out "whodunnit", first Blackie has to find out how it was done!
Andrew M Greeley is a great storyteller who uses wit and Irish charm to tell his tales. He must surely be past 40 works of fiction by now and I've enjoyed them all.
|
| Dorothy |
Killing Johnny Fry: A Sexistential Novel by Walter Mosley |
Rating: 1 Stars |
This book was a loser. It was basically porn. If you like reading novels with very little plot and a lot of bizarre, sadomasochistic sex, go for it. Otherwise, steer clear. This one isn't worth the time or money. Mosley should be ashamed of himself.
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| Lu |
Murder at the Library of Congress by Margaret Truman |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I have just started this book, so it is hard to tell how many stars I would rate it. I needed a change of genre and have had this forever in my "to be read" pile.
|
| Cam |
Refuge by Dot Jackson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a novel about a woman in the 1920s from Charleston who leaves her husband and takes children to her father's birthplace in Appalachia to live. It's a wonderful story of a woman finding her roots and kin, and of the difficulties she encounters along the way.
|
| Lisa Henderson |
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn |
Rating: 5 Stars |
It's difficult to believe this is a first novel by media critic Flynn. The story is powerful and disturbing. The prose is mesmerizing and I was hooked from the first page to the last. It was unforgettable, but for those who favor cozy mysteries, this may not be the book for you.
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| Melissa Herlevic (melissaherlevic@yahoo.com) |
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very memorable story!!
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| Melissa Herlevic (melissaherlevic@yahoo.com) |
The Last Life by Claire Messud |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Interesting story.
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| Melissa Herlevic (melissaherlevic@yahoo.com) |
The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this story --- it's tale of following ones's heart.
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| Naia Foley |
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The best book I've read all year! It's a reminder of all those glorious, gothic novels from the past. A true page turner, highly recommended!
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| Jane H. (janebeatty92083@hotmail.com) |
Lost In A Good Book by Jasper Fforde |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a very entertaining book. Ford is very good, and I am going to follow this author. I highly recommend him.
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| Gordon Wilson |
Short & Tall Tales by Lilian Jackson Braun |
Rating: 2 Stars |
Lillian Jackson Braun is well known for her The Cat who.... series, which feature James Qwilleran and his 2 siamese cats that seem to be in the know. Qwill writes a column for the local newspaper in Moose County --- 400 miles North of anywhere!
This book is a collection of stories given to Qwill by the area residents. I found it to be disappointing because fans of Braun's work buy it for the cats, and they are not featured in this book at all --- which was mentioned on the flyleaf, but I bought the book simply on name recognition. Fans of her work could easily give this one a miss.
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| Michael Lowrie (michaellowrie80@yahoo.com) |
Dreamcatcher by Stephen King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The pain Stephen King felt during his recovery from the "accident" is evident. He describes pain and its bearings in descriptive and thoughtful terms. His discomfort is obvious and adds an edge or fury to his writing style, especially in scenes with Kurtz and his men. This is a great novel that I strongly recommend reading, if your a fan of King's or not. There is more substance than style, not just a horror yarn. Duddits is a memorable character, albiet hard to interpret but loved nonethless.
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| Gordon Wilson |
Fatality at Bath & Wells by Nancy Livingston |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is Livingston's 2nd crime novel, first published in 1986. It is the tale of Mr. Pringle, a retired tax inspector, who is invited on the very first national newscast from a new TV station to discuss upcoming changes to the British tax laws. He is also a part-time sleuth who has success in the first story of the series. When the program director turns up dead after a power outage, Mr. Pringle is asked by the list of suspects to prove them innocent of the crime.
Nancy Livingston writes good stories with interesting characters in the manner of British crime writers. If you like the style, Livingston's books make a good reads.
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| T. Thomas |
At All Costs by David Weber |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The last book in The Honor Harrington series.
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