| Sagrario |
Startled By His Furry Shorts by Louise Rennison |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An excellent book to read when you want to just have mindless fun laughing.
|
| Marsha |
The Watchman by Robert Crais |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first book featuring Joe Pike, a partner of Elvis Cole. If you like nonstop action and well-written thrillers with highly developed characters, then this book is for you.
|
| Ruth |
The Wyoming Kid by Debbie Macomber |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is one of the author's series romances. It's a nice story, but I prefer her longer books.
|
| Ruth |
What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This story was comparable to those of one of my other favorite authors, Mary Higgins Clark. It held my attention all the way through.
|
| Bridget |
Au Paris by Rachel Spencer |
Rating: 2 Stars |
A disappointing memoir/ collection of blogs about spending a few weeks as an au pair in Paris. It was supposed to be humorous (I think), but it just really annoyed me. If I were the parents of the children, I would have sent this woman packing!
|
| Bridget |
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Wow! I read this book thinking (for about the first half) that it was pretty good. What a surprise! There is such a twist that I just never saw coming! I cannot stop thinking about this book!
|
| Christy |
The Chaos King by Laura Ruby |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Bug and Gurl are back with more adventures in this new entertaining sequel to the THE WALL AND THE WING.
Ms. Ruby's writing style is unique and inventive, with fun and quirky characters.
The alternate fantasy world will draw you in and keep you absorbed to the very end.
This book is a definite must read and if you haven't read the first book, it's a must also.
|
| Barbara |
The Night Journal by Elizabeth Crook |
Rating: 5 Stars |
You will not want to put this book down. You just have to know what will happen next. Every time you think you have it figured out there is another twist or turn. I was not happy with the ending because I am a romantic, but it had to end the way it did.
I was great to know what happened in real life to all the places.
|
| Diane S. |
Two Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Great read. I suggest it to everyone who likes Clark's writing and to anyone who likes being pulled into a good book.
|
| Fran |
Love Walked In by Marisa De Los Santos |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I loved this story, which was full of loveable characters, compelling personal stories, soem family drama, a bit of romance and a whole lot of friendship. I will definitely look for more by this wonderful author!
|
| Barbara |
I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron |
Rating: 4 Stars |
What wonderful tongue-in-cheek humor. I was able to relate to most of the book and could really understand where she is coming from. A must read for every woman.
|
| Jud Hanson |
Aftermath by Peter Robinson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book features Acting Det. Superintendent Alan Banks, familiar to fans of Peter Robinson. In this book, a chance call from a neighbor leads police to apprehend a serial killer, or so they think. As the story unfolds, it becomes apparent that one particular victim, the "killer's" wife, may not be a victim after all. That's all I'm going to say so as to not ruin the ending.
|
| Susan Jensen |
A Great and Terrible Beauty by Libba Bray |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I'm giving this YA book 5 stars because it mesmerized me, drew me in so completely that I literally could not put it down! It's the story of Gemma Doyle, a 16-year-old girl, who's wracked with guilt over her mother's mysterious death. When she's shipped off to an English boarding school, she struggles to put the tragedy behind her and get on with the business of learning how to be a proper lady. But, she's troubled by disturbing visions and the warnings of the handsome man who seems to be tracking her every move. As Gemma delves deeper into her visions, she discovers a colorful "world between worlds," that is as dangerous as it is addicting. She and her friends can't keep themselves from this strange world where they find freedom from their stifling lives, but the magic of "the realms" is more dangerous than they ever imagined.
This book is a chilling, absorbing read that is much deeper than it seems at first.
|
| Sandy |
Step on a Crack by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Just finished this awesome story and am sure hoping this is the beginning of a new series.
|
| Peggy |
Raising Cain by Gallatin Warfield |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you like courtroom drama, you will love this book. It's a well written, suspense-packed legal thriller. Do not mistake the book with the movie, Raising Cain. The only similarity between the book and the movie is that they share the same title.
|
| Mary (ella480@aol.com) |
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This absolutely was a "best" book!
|
| Kay Keller |
The Book of Names by Jill Gregory & Karen Tintori |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book mixes the Kabbala and the tarot with lots of suspense and the dark forces trying to bring about the end of the world. What I enjoyed so much about this thriller was reading about a mystical book that was written by the biblical Adam. There was so much to think about in this novel. I also enjoyed the short chapters that changed the setting from place to place. I would definitely recommend this book!
|
| Jud Hanson |
The Singing Sword by Jack Whyte |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is Book 2 of the Camulod Chronicles. As the book opens, we see Rome in further decline and the continuing struggles for a small band of Britons that found their own community, outside of the Roman Empire. Some important political alliances are formed and the reader is introduced to the "Pendragon" clan. All in all, this was an excellent book.
|
| Joel |
Water Like a Stone by Deborah Crombie |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Excellent mystery and portrayal of characters.
|
| Genie (geniedances@yahoo.com) |
Kitty and the Midnight Hour by Carrie Vaughn |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first book in a series by Carrie Vaughn. We are introduced to Kitty, who has her own late night show at a small public radio station in Denver. She took the late hours after she became a werewolf. It seemed to be a better way to avoid the public eye as her lifestyle has become something she has trouble accepting herself.
One night, she makes some off-the-cuff remarks on the air about Bat Boy, which turns into a talk fest about the paranormal. The is a hit, and the station wants to keep the format. What problems could this possibly cause?
Local werewolf and vampire leaders hate the attention the show brings into the public. Although Kitty has been submissive in her werewolf pack, she becomes assertive about her own life and decides to keep the show. When listeners discover that she speaks from experience, the real trouble begins. Hired assassins, the police, vampires, werewolves, jealousy and hatred all combine to make things difficult for the late night show host. When a series of murders are committed that point to the paranormal community Kitty, decides to take matters in her own hands. She teams up with a known assassin to discover the identity of the killer.
|
| Jud Hanson |
The Skystone by Jack Whyte |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first book in a fascinating series called the Camulod Chronicles. It's a rendering of what the backstory of King Arthur might have been. The book starts with the decline of the Roman empire, and you are introduced to an array of characters that play a pivotal role in the developement of the Arthurian legend. I planned to read the whole series as fast as I can obtain the books.
|
| Bonnie |
Promise Me by Harlen Coben |
Rating: 4 Stars |
His mysteries never disappoint, and this one is terrific.
|
| Sandra F. |
The Lords of the North by Bernard Cornwell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Bernard Cornwell is the best writer of historical fiction today. THE LORDS OF THE NORTH is the last book in the trilogy set in Britain in the time of Alfred the Great. It follows the story of Uthred, who is torn between the Danes who raise him and his Saxon background. This is a raw and exciting book that depicts life as it was in the 9th century.
|
| Karen Terry (mi3sons@mchsi.com) |
Proof Positive by Phillip Margolin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I really love the fast pace of the of the book. It is about how justice can be rigged to suit the crime, and how a criminalist can cross over the line, using murder to solve cases to boost his status in a courtroom.
|
| Sally |
The Subtle Knife by Philip Pullman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This sequel to THE GOLDEN COMPASS, the book starts with a totally different character, but continues Lyra's story in an amazing new universe. The author has added many new characters, as well as keeping many of the previous characters from the first book. Once again, it was hard to put down, and is almost as good as THE GOLDEN COMPASS. It leads right into the last book of the trilogy, THE AMBER SPYGLASS.
|
| Karen |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I love reading any of her titles, and this was no exception. It made me look at my own children from different perspectives, wanting to see if there was something I was missing in their lives. My children are 20+, but you still wonder where you may have gone wrong, as Lacy is in the book. For some reason I connected with her and nothing like this has happened in my family --- yet. I don't think any of us are immune, and to think we are is not being honest with ourselves.
|
| Marilyn Shoemaker |
Marcelli Princess by Susan Mallery |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I'm so glad I was one Susan Mallery's fans/readers who asked for Mia's story and wasn't disappointed! I love the Marcelli Sisters series and this was no exception. It was delightful, entertaining, and caused me to shed a few tears. However, what I most loved about this book was that it brought out Susan Mallery's charm and sense of humor!
Mia and her sisters taking on a crown Prince? If you've read the series, then one would appreciate this aspect and the family dynamics.
As for lessons, there are many to be learned --- like what's important in life, what does love really mean to a person? What can respect, love and determination bring into a relationship? Not to mention, family values, traditions and holding each member close and dear to each of them.
The book had a wonderful ending. I thought Mia was strong, fierce, determined and passionate. As for Crown Prince Rafael, he was brought to his knees by Mia and her family! Loved it!
Again, Susan Mallery has delivered a wonderful story and series and one I shall long remember! Thank you, Susan.
|
| Sandra F. |
The End of East by Jen Sookfong Lee |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a first novel and is the story of three generations of Chinese immigrants in Vancouver. It is a lovely story that tells equally well the story of the male, as well as the female immigrant. This is a just recently published novel and well worth reading.
|
| Judy O. |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an absolutely wonderful book!!! It is the story of Liesel Meminger, who calls herself "The Book Thief" because, in her hunger to read, she steals books. Liesel lives in Germany during the years of World War II. She is a foster child in a very poor home, and we learn much about her and her family's struggle to survive the Nazis. At one point, the family takes in a Jew named Max, which puts them in greater peril. The story is narrated by Death. I'm just enthralled by the whole story and really recommend it to everyone.
|
| Patricia McClimans (pmcclimans@hotmail.com) |
Dead Souls by Ian Rankin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the Inspector John Rebus series books, this one has all the gritty action Ian Rankin is famous for. DI Rebus outs a paedophile, and vigilantes take over. He has yet another weight on his conscience. At the same time a convicted murderer is playing games with Rebus and the tabloid press is writing a lot of trash about him. As always his bosses are not happy! Ian Rankin can make you loss alot of sleep. Try to read the series from the beginning, not so much because you need the back ground, but because every one of these books is worth the read. I have read them all several times, and still love them.
|
| Alison |
The Lytton Family Trilogy by Penny Vincenzi |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was absolutely hooked on this trilogy and enjoyed every word in these 900+ page books. SHE'S NO ANGEL is the first one, followed by SOMETHING DANGEROUS, then INTO TEMPTATION. The writing is superb and the storyline keeps you guessing. I was so sad when they ended, I felt like I was losing a whole family of friends. After I finishing the last page during a long airplane flight, I had to just stare out the window for a while and absorb it all. I highly, highly recommend these books.
|
| Sandra F. |
Rebecca's Tale by Sally Beauman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
For anyone who has read and loved Daphne DuMaurier's REBECCA, this book is for you. It is a lovely story of Rebecca and the people who were affected by her, twenty years after her death.
|
| Cheryl K. |
Shadow Man by Cody McFadyen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I couldn't put this book down. The story is horrifying, but it is so well written that I can't wait until the follow-up, THE FACE OF DEATH.
|
| Sonia Chopra |
The Double Bind by Chris Bojalian |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I could not put this book down. It was engrossing and suspenseful. I identified with the protagonist's obsessive quest to uncover the truth, as I know I would have been equally intrigued about the homeless man and his collection of extraordinary photographs. The twist in the story is how the pictures are connected to her life and her past, which she wants very much to forget. Highly recommended.
|
| M. Blitz |
I Heard That Song Before by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I would give it 10 stars if that were possible. It was a typical book by Mary Higgins Clark book that kept you guessing until she gives you the answer in the last couple of chapters.
This book is about a serial murderer and a dysfunctional set of families based over 30 years.
|
| Susy |
Contagion by Robin Cook |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great medical thriller. Some of the medical jargon could have been explained a bit, but other than that, it was a very suspenseful book and the ending is very surprising! This was my first Robin Cook book, and I intend to read more!
|
| Joan |
Swimming Lessons by Mary Alice Monroe |
Rating: 5 Stars |
At last, after 5 years, Monroe has written a sequel to THE BEACH HOUSE. We are reunited with the same characters and continue with life on Isle of Palms. Toy Sooner is now a marine biologist and is raising her daughter Lovie, as a single parent. She rehabilitates the loggerhead turtles that come to the island every May to nest on the beaches. She finds love in her life just as her ex-abususive boyfriend Darryl returns to try and pick up the pieces of the past. SWIMMING LESSONS is a heartwarming story of family, friends, and the love of wild life on the shores of the Atlantic.
|
| Darryl from TX |
Playing God in Yellowstone by Alston Chase |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a good time of year to re-read this 1986 book. Written by an uber-environmentalist and focusing on our first national park, it shows how many "pro-environmental" policies have actually harmed the environment. It is especially appropriate for Easter season as it discloses the religious impluse that motivates many in the environmental movement.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Agatha Raisin and the Wellspring of Death by M. C. Beaton |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A cute, easy-to read mystery that centered on a middle-aged woman having a fling with a boy toy, and losing her perception due to this fling. I hope I would be a better judge of character than Agatha.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Snipe Hunt by Sarah R. Shaber |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I love a good mystery. This is the 2nd book in the Simon Shaw series. Shaber is a master researcher. There was some interesting information about shipwrecks, the Wilmington area, hurricanes, World War II, and the Civil War. This was also a pretty good story. Simon is definitely growing on me. He is a very likable character. He is at the beach near Wilmington with a friend of his, and they're asked to answer some questions about some coins found with a dead body from the 40s they just dredged up off shore. Interestingly enough, the dead body is a relative of some locals. Simon thinks he is reluctant to get involved in another case but with the help of his former love interest, Julia, he is hot on the trail of a killer. A killer who is still killing. This mystery had clues that threw you off the real motive. I liked that about this one. Shaber did a good job directing Simon and the reader off track. Although, Simon should have gone with his gut and proceeded with what he deduced in the first place, he reacted like anyone would and went on a couple wild goose chases. But these just brought him closer to Julia. It will be interesting to see what happens to this relationship in future books. I'm looking forward to continuing this series.
|
| P Hess |
The Perfect Royal Mistress by Diane Haeger |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Historical fiction about Nell Gwynne. She was born into poverty and raised in a brothel by her alcoholic mother. Through a twist of fate, she sells oranges in the pit of London's King's Theatre. There, she meets King Charles II and becomes a famous actress and supposedly the only woman King Charles really loved. THE PERFECT ROYAL MISTRESS is a very good read about King Charles and the court during 17th century London.
|
| Jeanie |
The Abortionist's Daughter by Elisabeth Hyde |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I read this book in one sitting, up till midnight to finish it! It is a part coming-of- age novel and part murder mystery. Who had a motive to kill the abortionist? Great read!
|
| Anne Barrie |
The Governor's Wife by Kate Rizor |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is an amazing and very inspirational read! It starts with mayor hopeful Tanner Thornburg asking his socialite wife for a divorce. She doesn't take it well and on her exit she is kidnapped, kicking off ten years of lost time. A chance meeting with police puts her back with him. She's been living on the streets! She has a choice of going back with him or staying out on the street with no identity. You get lost in this story with the main characters and their struggle to get back together.
|
| Karen Barash |
By The Time You Read This by Giles Blunt |
Rating: 4 Stars |
As mystery novels go, this held my ineterest. It is a pyschological suspense novel.
|
| Helene Simpson |
Edgewise by Graham Masterton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A great read from a master of horror and psychological suspense. This book is one of his best. The story is about the Wendingo, an American Indian sprirt, so there is information about Native americans throughout the book. If you haven't read any of Masterton's books, you need to discover the master he is.
|
| Ricki (rickimc@aol.com) |
Obsession by Karen Robards |
Rating: 2 Stars |
A confusing and not-too-romantic thriller. it's good for a mindless read, but that is about it.
|
| Marcia |
I, Mona Lisa by Jeanne Kalogridis |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Intriguing, interesting historical fiction about the Medicis, Leonardo Da Vinci, and Mona Lisa. This was a long book that I didn't want to end. I enjoyed it and wanted to read more about that time period.
|
| Christy |
I Heard That Song Before by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 1 Stars |
I was so disappointed reading this book. It didnt seem like Clark's writing style, and it didn't flow. I only finished it because I hoped it would get better. Dont buy this, get at the library if you must read it.
|
| Angie |
The Chaos King by Laura Ruby |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Okay, this review is a little, well, early, since I've only just started my ARC of THE CHAOS KING, but I LOVE it! The wacky, original, fun, crazy humor makes this a great mix of Harry Potter charm and A Series of Unfortunate Events lunacy. I definitely recommend it! So far, that is!
|
| Angie |
Kabul Beauty School by Debbie Rodriguez and Kristin Ohlson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
With a narrator as vivacious and relatable as Debbie, there's no way you can go wrong. Moving at a lightening fast speed, KABUL BEAUTY SCHOOL is equal parts horrifying and inspiring. A fresh, heroic look at Afghanistan, it offers up touching stories and an excellent read. Definitely recommended!
|
| Angie |
Saving the World and Other Extreme Sports by James Patterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
There's never a boring moment in Maximum Ride III. Whether we're being catered to some signature Max wit, swooning over the incredibly swoon-worthy Fang, or simply playing witness to a tender moment within the flock, it is so insanely hard to put down, so extremely fast-paced, and so beautifully executed. I mean, sure there were moments when things were a little predictable and sometimes Fang's blog got tedious, but Maximum Ride was as action packed and heart wrenching as can be. In fact, I'm still wishing that our favorite birdkids' journey wasn't over... Mr. Patterson, please make the series a quintet! I’m sure I’m not the only fan unwilling to get off this ride!!!
|
| Angie |
In Search of Mockingbird by Loretta Ellsworth |
Rating: 2 Stars |
IN SEARCH OF MOCKINGBIRD is a gentle coming-of-age tale about a young girl, Erin, without a mother. She is relatable in this subtle story, and it is easy to want to follow her journey to find the one connection she has to her mother (Harper Lee, through TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD). However, despite the interesting and colorful characters she meets along the way, I never felt that this novel reached its potential. Nothing really grabbed me by the heart. There was no flavor or feel of the 80s, or any real payoff at the conclusion. It was an honorable effort at a poignant tale, but couldn't quite make me want to be 'In Search of Mockingbird' again.
|
| Angie |
If We Kiss by Rachel Vail |
Rating: 4 Stars |
IF WE KISS entranced me. At first, the book seemed shallow and superficial. I was sure I wouldn't end up recommending it. Boy, was I wrong! Rachel Vail captured the complete essence and pain of love, betrayal, and confusion. Throughout the story you realize that the main character, Charlie, isn't as "blah" as she first seems. No, she is a smart, normal, witty girl who has a real level of connection with the reader. This book actually surprised me in many ways. It wasn't one of the standard, run-of-the-mill plots with the predictable ending that books like these usually are. Instead, I was enraptured with the story's realistic, honest approach at an edgy subject. IF WE KISS got me so emotionally involved with the characters that I couldn't put it down until I finished it. It was a fantastic book, written in a magnificently subtle voice.
|
| Phyllisg |
Momzillas by Jill Kargman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A book about the pressure mothers in New York society face in making sure their babies are signed up in classes to get them in the right nursery school and on up. This presents a funny look at the skewed world of the 'high society'.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Clover by Dori Sanders |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An awesome story of a black girl living with a white stepmother, as well as a brief look at the world from a child's view. I am surprised that the tone is so mild, especially for a Southern town. In the South that I have seen, this situation would not have been accepted. The author does not bring up the fact that the child is not white, like the stepmother, until halfway through the book --- why?
|
| Marsha |
Memento Mori by Muriel Spark |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book was recommended as a witty, black comedy concerning the last days of several English folks. I failed to see the humor in this group of vulnerable aging eccentrics. Not my cup of tea.
|
| Bob Chase (rchase1032@aol.com) |
The Afghan by Frederick Forsyth |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very good read and as current as today's headlines. Forsyth has created masterful characters who operate in the world of international espionage and terror. This is the author at his best.
|
| Carol |
Shopaholic & Baby by Sophie Kinsella |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A fun read.
|
| Ginny |
The Castle in the Forest by Norman Mailer |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I'm going to write up my opinion on this new novel after only the first 100 pages, because I doubt I'll ever finish it. Writing as the devil's henchman, the narrator sets about to tell the life story of Adolf Hitler. It is one of incest, debauchery, earthy personal preferences, and a variety of very good or very bad characters. There was an amusing brief incident in which the narrating devil admitted that by writing this record, he'd probably have to join something similar to the witness protection program if his boss ever discovered it. Perhaps in a month or two, I'll try again, but for now, this has not been one of my best reading experiences.
|
| Ginny |
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In this unusual tale, Vida Winter, a famous but reclusive writer, summons biographer Margaret Lea to record her life story. But because Winter is famous for receating her life differently in each interview she has given the press over the years, Lea has to be convinced that this time the story is real. Not only does it check out, but it is the most bizarre of tales. I enjoyed this unusual story very much. A must read!
|
| Kay Keller |
The Haunted Bookshop by Christopher Morley |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'm glad I took a chance on this book as it was enjoyable and humorous. I laughed aloud at this book, which was first published in 1919, many times. The book will come back into print next month (May 2007) in paperback, and I may purchase it as gifts for the book lovers I know. Great "bibliotherapy" for bibliophiles!
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This was the sequel of TRUE BELIEVER. Lexie and Jeremy met in the first book, and fall in love. Jeremy is a writer who arrived in this small NC town to write a story about the ghost lights that appear on foggy nights in the cemetery. AT FIRST SIGHT begins after he asks her to marry him, and she is already pregnant with their child. The story is basically about their relationship. Jeremy has left New York and decides he can settle down and write from this small NC town (Boone Creek). At first it seems like a fairytale, but then jealousy and lack of communication leads to some rocky roads. In the middle of planning a wedding, renovating a new house, and uncovering secrets, Jeremy has writer's block. Things settle down for the new couple after the wedding and they become more comfortable and happy. Then they find out the baby may be at risk with ABS, or ambiotic band syndrome. Although very stressful, the time before the baby is born is a very close and intimate one for Lexie and Jeremy. Jeremy even starts writing again. Although the ending is sad, I think Sparks does his usual magic with character development and great story telling. This isn’t his best, but it is better than TRUE BELIEVER.
|
| Christy (oltlfreak@aol.com) |
A Necessary Evil by ALex Kava |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love all her books, and this one didn't let me down. I had to wait five years for it, Don't let it happen again, Alex! :)
|
| Vicki M. |
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the first book I've read by this author and I am very impressed. I'm very drawn to the characters and can't wait to unravel the mystery of Bobbie Crocket and how his past is connected to Laurel. Great read.
|
| Jane O'Neal |
The Lake House by James Patterson |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This was the first book I'd read by James Patterson. He apparently has written several books about these half child/half bird creatures. I was disappointed with the predictable story and characters. It reminded me of a mediocre movie.
|
| Elaine Gutenstein (EBpooh@aol.com) |
Step on a Crack by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Wow! Another crime hero for us to read about. I know lots of you are thinking, how could this one be diffferent from the Cross novels? Well... in this novel, I felt truly close to our hero. He has a huge family, with huge things going on, but he is likable and very real. I almost cried during the Christmas hospital scene. Bravo to Patterson for giving us yet another reason to enjoy his easy reading style!
|
| Elaine Gutenstein (EBpooh@aol.com) |
The Shopaholic Series by Sophie Kinsella |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I vowed to do nothing more than eat and read over my Spring Break, and this first novel of the Shopaholic series has been waiting to be read for so long. What a joyful ride. OK, it's predictable, but you get to laugh out loud and enjoy it because, admit it...you've been there yourself! So, what did this bookaholic do after reading the first one? I went out and got the next two...I get "points" everytime I shop; wouldn't Bex be proud of me?
|
| Mia (CA) |
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a well-written book about families and family secrets. With a lot of twists and turns, sometimes the truth can come out.
It was a very gripping tale.
|
| L. Green |
Match Me If You Can by Susan Elizabeth Phillips |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Fast paced and entertaining story of finding the love of your life. A funny, "curl up with a good book" read.
|
| Coral Harrison |
Double Tap by Steve Martini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a good suspense novel. Paul Marriani is a lawyer trying to prove that his client is innocent. After many problems, murder, and continual government misue of power, the trial comes to the right conclusion. It is a good book.
|
| Judy O. |
Damage Control by Robert Dugoni |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Dana Hill, a young lawyer in a prestigious firm, is shocked when her twin brother is murdered in an apparent robbery. She finds a valuable object at her brother's house, which sets her on the quest for the truth. This is a great story.
|
| Christy |
Goblins by Vincent Courtney |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I bought this book while on a vacation and my choices were limited. I assumed it was going to be your basic evil baby theme and that I would probably not finish it. However, it turned out to be quite suspenseful and entertaining.
|
| Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com) |
Kafka in Bronteland And Other Stories by Tamar Yellin |
Rating: 4 Stars |
These 13 stories address universal themes of yearning and displacement, love, loss, and the struggle to belong -- interesting!
|
| Beth Schweikert |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
As always, Picoult has a way of pulling you in right from the start.
|
| Barbara Duncan (barbaralynduncan@yahoo.com) |
Lover Awakened by J. R. Ward |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the third book in Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I can't wait to read the fourth one! It has everything you want --- excitement, forbidden love, desire, romance, violence, passion and more...
|
| Genie (geniedances@yahoo.com) |
Blood Trail by Tanya Huff |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Ex-cop turned private investigator Vickie Nelson was forced to leave the police force because of a debilitating eye condition that leaves her blind at night. While working on a case, Vickie meets Henry, a 400-year-old vampire (and illegitimate son of Henry VIII). Henry become part of Vickie's PI firm and helps her with her first case by becoming her eyes at night. Vickie and Henry are friends, but there is the beginning of a strong attraction between them. Vickie's ex working partner, Mike Celluci, is a friend, as well as a romantic interest. He doesn’t trust Henry and is doing a background search on him.
BLOOD TRAIL begins with a telephone call from Henry, asking her to take on a murder investigation for a friend of his. As it turns out, this friend and his family are werewolves. Someone has shot and killed several family members while in wolf form. All the murders have taken place at night on their farm, while they were checking on their sheep. They refuse to go to the police, even though the eldest son was a police officer, in fear of their secret being discovered. Vickie and Henry go to the farm and work together to find the killer before any more family members are murdered. Things become more complicated when Mike Celluci shows up unannounced, hoping to prove to Vickie that Henry isn’t what he seems.
|
| Susan |
Innocent in Death by J. D. Robb |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A fun installment in the Lt. Eve Dallas series. Unlike other series, J. D. Robb never has never written a disappointing book. Each additional installment shows growth in the characters and always makes you want to read the book in one sitting.
|
| Sonia |
The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very well written. Didion brings you into her personal experience of loss when it happens to her, and in the worst imaginable way. If you have ever lost anyone, this is a must read.
|
| Suzanne (sknapp@stny.rr.com) |
Bones Would Rain From the Sky by Suzanne Clothier |
Rating: 5 Stars |
For all dog lovers everywhere, BONES WOULD RAIN FROM THE SKY is a nonfiction book that will speak what your heart has been telling you. It was wonderfully written by a woman who has raised dogs, trained dogs, and had a lifelong love affair with dogs.It made me laugh, made me cry, and made me a better dog person.
|
| L. Hann |
High Five by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Janet Evanovich does it again, and has written another great read. Stephanie Plum gets herself into another funny bounty-hunter situation. We find out what happened to her Uncle Fred. This fast read makes you laugh.
|
| Krishna Shah |
In the Company of Liars by David Ellis |
Rating: 3 Stars |
IN THE COMPANY OF LIARS starts at the end of the storyline and goes back in time as the book progress. It is like reading the movie Memento. The story starts out really good, but it doesn't keep it up throughout the book. The concept of telling what happened from the final result back is very refreshing and I liked it; I just wasn't that fond of any of the characters. You couldn't really like any of them or want to root for them. If you stop reading at page 100, you will love the book.
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| Coral Harrison |
The Wedding by Nicholas Sparks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very romantic book told in the first person by Wilson Lewis. He has been married to the woman he loves nearly 30 years. They have 3 children, but he is not sure she still loves him or knows that he loves her.
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| C Lee Parry (spenc@netnitco.net) |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I cannot set this one down. It is excellent!!!
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| C Lee Parry (spenc@netnitco.net) |
The Mercy Seller by Brenda Rickman Vantrease |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I'm halfway through this historical fiction. It is awesome. Such a good read!
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| C Lee Parry (spenc@netnitco.net) |
Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I don't know why I waited so long to read this one. It is very good ... just too sad. I have to put is down for something else.
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| Carole (leonebear@aol.com) |
Dispatches from the Edge by Anderson Cooper |
Rating: 4 Stars |
He reveals what it is really takes be a reporter covering war, hurricanes and tsunamis and other world events and disasters --- the fear,fascination, adrenalin rush...
I have watched Anderson on TV and find him to be compasionate, real, and willing to ask the tough questions. He also touches on his family losses. I wanted more...
|
| Nyla Thompson |
The White Bird by Lauran Paine |
Rating: 5 Stars |
What does an old buffalo hunter, an ancient Navajo, an old Lakota woman, a young Indian girl, and an old buffalo have in common?
They all come from the four directions of the wind, and have made a magical circle. A white bird fortells in a dream that the circle will be broken. I have never read the works of Lauran Paine before, I think he is a great, spellbindind author.
|
| Denise |
Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a beautifully written first novel that draws the reader in from the begining. The lives of the two women central to the book are drawn so realistically that you feel you know them well --- and hate to leave them.
|
| Nyla Thompson |
Night of the Comanche Moon by T. T. Flynn |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Ann Carruthers had no idea when she left England that the son of a Commanche chief offered 100 horses for her. A life in the New Mexico Territory with bandits, Indians, and violance was something she was not prepared for. She meets a loner, who becomes her one chance for survival in the lawless wilderness.
|
| Lori (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Who knew that television's "Dr. House" was also an author? And, as he does on the TV show, he does this job very well. It's the humorous story of a retired officer of the Scots Guard who tries to do a good deed and gets mixed up with the British Secret Service, the CIA, a nasty arms dealer, terrorists, varous other villans, and of course, a beaufiful woman or two.
It's not your typical spy/adventure novel in that there are as many laughs as there are adventures. I don't usually find myself smiling or chuckling out loud when reading a spy or detective novel, but I did in this one. I think it falls somewhere between 007 and Naked Gun. Read it and see what I mean.
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| Barbara (FRABAR2@AOL.COM) |
Nine Lives by Sharon Sala |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I just started to read my first book by Sharon Sala. It's an easy read, as well as an interesting story about a young woman, Cat Dupree, who becomes a bounty hunter because of a tragedy she experienced as a child. Her good friend is murdered, and Cat is determined to solve the crime.
|
| Charles Blake Johnson |
Skeleton Man by Tony Hillerman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Hillerman's fine work continues with SKELETON MAN. Retired Navajo Tribal Police Lietenant Joe Leaphorn comes out of retirement to solve a perplexing decades-old mystery that morphs into modern-day murder. As always, Hillerman provides an insightful look at southwestern Native Americans' traditions and evolving sensibilities dealing with the 21st century.
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| Carole (leonebear@aol.com) |
Gringos In Paradise by Barry Golson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoyed reading this account of an American couple who attempt to relocate from Manhattan to a small fishing village of Sayulita, on Mexico's Pacific Coast, and build their dream home. The author wrote an award-winning (The Lowell Thomas Award) article on Mexico for AARP. It was informative and entertaining, and I didn't want to put it down.
|
| Trudy |
White Sister by Stephen J. Cannell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A page turner for me! Detective Shane Scully's wife, who is the head of the LA detectives, is missing and a police officer is found handcuffed to her steering wheel and killed execution style. Where is she and what is her connection to the rogue cop? Scully breaks all the rules trying to find her and prove her innocence.
|
| Kathleen (KathyWZ@yahoo.com) |
INKHEART and INKSPELL by Cornelia Funke |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An interesting series for the YA group. I am a children's librarian for a school district and make it a point to read what the kids are enjoying. The plot of these books is intriguing, especially to a librarian as they're about the world of books.
|
| Julie Towson |
Kill Me by Stephen White |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Gripping and riveting. I couldn't put it down. I really enjoy all of Stephen White's books. He never lets me down.
|
| Jenn |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an extremely powerful, heartwrenching tale of an American tragedy. I couldn't put this book down, and I stayed up late evening after evening just so I could finish it. Wonderful!
|
| Kim Kovacs (kkovacs@ix.netcom.com) |
Hide by Lisa Gardner |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Every time I read a book by Lisa Gardner, I find myself so wrapped up in what will happen next that I can't put the novel down. Highly original, entertaining, and well written.
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| Kim Kovacs (kkovacs@ix.netcom.com) |
Exodus by Leon Uris |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Although EXODUS has been out for decades now, I'd never read it. A friend recommended it, and I'm so glad he did! I'm not sure what I expected, but the novel has been a revelation. It's historical fiction at its best, detailing the events that led to the creation of Isreal. It's a fascinating period of history. Highly recommended novel!
|
| Charles Blake Johnson |
Fat Ollie's Book by Ed McBain |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The late great Ed McBain (Evan Hunter) was one of our greatest masters of the mystery novel. FAT OLLIE'S BOOK adds to his considerable achievement, with the quirky, oddball, and not very loveable police detective Fat Ollie Weeks taking centerstage in a fairly complicated tale involving a personal quest of sorts. Weeks, a minor character in some other McBain works, manages to keep the reader's attention through a series of blunders and blusters.
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| Genie (geniedances@yahoo.com) |
Blood Lines by Eileen Wilks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Lily Yu (touch-sensitive) and Rule Turner (her werewolf- bondmate) escape Hell, only to find that some demons followed. Though some joke about demons in government, officials are found to be making deals with demons, do the Secret Service calls on FBI agents Lily, Cynna (former "dizzy”), and Rule to put a stop to it. Sorcerer-werewolf and Rule’s friend, Cullen Seabourne, is confronted with by a demon he recognizes, he knows his friends are in danger and shows up at Rule and Lily’s house to offer help. He knows there is a real danger when he discovers Rule, during a fight with a demon, has suffered a magical wound that will not heal and is causing him lose control of his inner wolf. The four team up only to find themselves in a deadly contest to keep an ancient demon from not only threatening their lives but effecting the lives of many others.
Eileen Wilks has written two earlier books that I now intend to read: TEMPTING DANGER and MORTAL DANGER, where the main characters are first introduced.
|
| Fran |
Jupiter's Bones by Faye Kellerman |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I have been working my way through the Peter Decker and Rina Lazarus series and am enjoying every one. In this book, Peter investigates the suspicious death of a cult leader, discovering many other bizarre things going on in this cult. I especially am enjoying the way Peter and Rina's sons interact in this novel. As the boys are in adolescence, their behavior becomes an area of concern, especially as some of their actions contrast with their faith. Love this series!
|
| Wendy Catalano |
A Marked Man by Stella Cameron |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The first book I have read by this author and it won't be the last. A great mystery!
|
| Melanie (mel1633@yahoo.com) |
The Halo Effect by M. J. Rose |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first book in a series of three starring Dr. Morgan Snow, who is a sex therapist in New York. In each book, there is a murder and Dr. Snow's client is involved somehow. She can't tell the police because she can't break confidence. What makes it even more difficult is that Dr. Snow is seeing the investigating police officer.
These are great psychological mysteries and the author keeps you guessing until the end.The second book is THE DELILAH COMPLEX and the third is THE VENUS FIX.
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| Charles Blake Johnson |
Walking the Bible by Bruce Feiler |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Fine writing. The author embarks on a series of journeys across the Middle East tracking down significant places mentioned in the Old Testament. More than a travelogue, WALKING THE BIBLE gives Feiler's insightful take on what religious tradition means to the modern-day quester. As he goes from place to place, Feiler gains knowledge from the locals and develops his own spin on the mix of religion's views of the holy.
|
| Christine |
The Shape Shifter by Tony Hillerman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A nice mix between American Indian History and mystery. The characters are people you would like to get to know. A relaxing read.
|
| Sara |
Sabriel by Garth Nix |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Fantasy at its best!! Nix is a genius!
|
| Linda M. Johnson |
A Crack in the Edge of the World by Simon Winchester |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I listened to this on a Playaway from the library. I was very disappointed. I had previously read and been enthralled by Winchester's THE PROFESSOR AND THE MADMAN (which I read, rather than listened to). That might make the difference. This is about the San Francisco Earthquake of 1906. The author spent a lot of time explaining about faults and geologic features of all the United States before the earthquake hits in chapter 10. Not much of the book is left by that point.
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| Carole (leonebear@aol.com) |
You'll Never Nanny In This Town Again by Suzanne Hansen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the true story of a young nanny from Oregon who moves to Tinseltown. She worked for one of Hollywood's elite agents for the Top Stars, as well as actors like Danny DeVito and Debra Winger. Hansen provides humorous, poignant insight to how parenting "Hollywood Style" is similar to working in an Insane Asylum.
|
| Cam |
Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent book about the relationship between 2 women (one young, the other elderly). Olsson's writing is simply wonderful.
|
| Phyllis G. |
Innocent in Death by J. D. Robb |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I thought I would not get drawn in to another book about Eve Dallas, but I was wrong. As usual, it is a very well-written book drawing the reader into the story and the life of Eve Dallas and her husband, Roarke.
|
| E. Q. Knight |
Amy and Isabelle by Elizabeth Strout |
Rating: 5 Stars |
After reading ABIDE WITH ME, I was anxious to see if this author could sustain the great writing! Applause to her! This book is about a Mother-and-daughter relationship that is so true to form that every teenager would love this book! Strout writes with a really deep sense of compassion and caring.
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| Valerie Wiesner (ackleyvalerie@yahoo.com) |
Heart- Shaped Box by Joe Hill |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is by a new author; the book is in the horror-thriller genre, and I am finding it fascinating. I can hardly wait to see what happens next. It is a great story so far!
|
| Cindy A. McCabe |
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Though this was the first book that I've read by Chris Bohjalian, it will not be my last. THE DOUBLE BIND is a great psychological suspense novel that I couldn't put down. It was as if I became the main character, Laurel Estabrook, and I took off in trying to find the truth despite others' disbelief. It's one of the best novels I've read in a long time, and I'm finding myself immediately wanting to read it over again to better answer the "Questions for Discussion" at the end of the book. It also made me want to read Fitzgerald's THE GREAT GATSBY again. THE DOUBLE BIND really pulls the reader right into each scene. We come out of the novel with our heads spinning and a deep longing to know more. I find myself missing the characters all too much.
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| Linda M. Johnson |
Thirteen Moons by Charles Frazier |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This author of COLD MOUNTAIN paints vivid pictures with his writing. This is the story of a man who was sent off by his family and "adopted" by Native Americans. His life spans most of the 19th century, including the Indian relocations after the Civil War. Fascinating read.
|
| Peg Schoenfelder |
The Ghost at the Table by Suzanne Berne |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book keeps you guessing at what really happened in this somewhat dysfunctional family.
|
| Linda |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Jodi Picoult at her best. Nineteen Minutes is how long it takes a lifelong victim of school bullying to open fire at his school, killing ten people and physically and emotionally wounding countless others. This is a book you won't soon forget. If you haven't read Picoult before, this book will certainly make you want to read all of them. If you are already a fan, you know you're in for a book you won't want to put down.
|
| Noreen Brown |
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very good unusual storyline. I thought it was a bit hard to imagine, but I have since found out that it was entirely plausible, as similar incidents did occur in the 50s and 60s.
|
| Margaret Ball |
If There Be Pain by Gloria Mallette |
Rating: 3 Stars |
In IF THERE BE PAIN, Gloria Mallette writes a tale of a man who thinks that he has his life under control. Kyle is sure that if he gives gifts to the ladies whom he uses as sex objects, he is doing alright by them, and that they are getting a deal. After all, he is very nice looking. Kyle does not respect any of the women in his life, not even his mother, whom he emotionally and physically deserts at a time when she needs him most. When his Native American grandfather, who has always supported him, becomes ill and is no longer of any use to Kyle, he makes himself scarce, leaving his grandfather feeling abandoned. Everyone, from his parents to his friends, has tried to get the selfish Kyle to grow up.
After his grandfather dies, he is plagued with nightmares and visits a tarot reader to try and find out the meaning behind the nightmares. The reader tries to warn him, but Kyle still refuses to examine his life and does not believe that his women could have a problem with him.
Kyle was so selfish that I wanted to jump into the book and shake him. I could not find one reason to like Kyle, nor could I like any of the women in this book. Hated characters make for memorable books, but I do want to have at least one to sympathize with, but I found none in this offering. But, on the other hand, I did enjoy reading this book. Women who have potentially selfish sons would benefit from reading this novel; maybe it could help to steer them in the right direction.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
The Dying Game by Beverly Barton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very good romantic suspense/thriller about a serial killer who has been killing Beauty Queens for decades. The premise behind it, along with the storyline, really pulls you in.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another great novel by Clark. The idea of young twins being able to communicate with each other is enthralling.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Shopaholic & Baby by Sophie Kinsella |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I didn't like this one as much as the previous Shopaholic novels, but it was still worth reading. I just didn't find myself laughing like I would with the others. Becky as a mother, though, is definitely worth checking out.
|
| Suzi Skutley |
Damage Control by Robert Dugoni |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I found it difficult to put this one down! It had compelling characters and a realistic treatment of breast cancer, not to mention a tight murder mystery. I'd like to see these characters again.
|
| C Simar |
Plan B by Anne Lamott |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Hilarious, sad and intriguing. I loved it.
|
| Janice |
Blindness by Jose Saramago |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A horrific novel detailing the total breakdown in society that follows upon this most unnatural disaster --- blindness. The author takes his characters to the very edge of humanity and then pushes them over. The characters learn to live in inexpressible filth, they commit acts of both unspeakable violence and amazing generosity that would have been unimaginable to them before the tragedy.
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| Bob Hartzo (jesus4u@bellsouth.net) |
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very great read. It was so enjoyable and hard to put down.
|
| Lori S (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
Green River, Running Red by Ann Rule |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I think Ann Rule is the queen of True Crime and this is one of her best. It is the story of the Green River Killer, and not a light read at 670 pages. But, in telling the story of the 20-plus year hunt for the most prolific killer the nation has ever known, she also describes what the detectives went through who were haunted by this case for so many years but did not give up, the leads and misleads, the bodies found 2 and 3 years after their murders, even the life of the killer --- a very quiet,"normal" and boring man with the soul of a monster.
But, the care and compassion she shows in describing the lives, personalities and families of so many of the 48 young female victims who were murdered is what makes Ann Rule such a good writer. It reads like powerful novel and was hard to put down.
|
| Donna |
Full of Grace by Dorothea Benton Frank |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first book I've read by Dorothea Benton Frank, and it had very colorful characters and a wonderful and touching story. Grace has a an old-fashioned Italian family who doesn't approve of her live-in doctor and scientist boyfriend, Michael. Grace loves Michael and is a very outgoing and modern woman at 31 years of age. It's a wonderful book. I really enjoyed it.
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| Marjorie Clark (marjclark@comcast.net) |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a great book about the circus at the turn of the century. It went beyond my expectations (especially since it's about the circus, go figure). I would recommend this to any lover of fiction because it includes all the ingedients that make you want more.
|
| Patti D. |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful, poignant novel. The story is so engrossing and the characters well developed. One of the best reads this year!
|
| Valerie Wiesner (ackleyvalerie@yahoo.com) |
Deep Storm by Lincoln Child |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I read this book a few days ago. It is a thriller about finding, allegedly, the lost continent of Atlantis. However, what the searchers are trying to find is something much more dangerous and dark. Very interesting story!
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| Lori S. (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
Hello, I Must Be Going by Charlotte Chandler |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I remember Groucho Marx and the silly, slapstick, manic Marx Bros movies. I watched him on the "Tonight Show" when I was young, and he sang the silly song, "Lydia the Tattoo'd Lady." Then a few months ago I caught an old interview of his on TV. It was strange, but he was much funnier than I remember him being when I was a kid. In fact, interview was far too short.
Recently, I found this book at a book sale. What a man! What a crazy family! What a sense of humor! His jokes were so clever and would come so quickly, that of course I wouldn't get them as a kid. They were for adults. I couldn't appreciate him then, but now I certainly do.
This book is full of stories he told to the author of his life with his incredible brothers, the women, the movie-making... Like when the Marx Brothers were starting out in movies and wanted to see the studio head, Irving Thalberg, but were kept waiting for hours while he was out. When Thalberg finally returned to his office, he found the 4 brothers, nude, roasting potatoes in his fireplace! (I suppose today they would be put in re-hab!).
This book takes you back to the early days of comedy and movies, and the facinating life of a one-of-a-kind man! Wish he were around now.
|
| Linda |
The Camel Bookmobile by Masha Hamilton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fictional story (but the camel bookmobile really does exist) of one woman's quest to bring books to remote areas of Kenya, via three camels loaded with books that arrive twice a month, and how that affects her and a variety of Kenyans involved in her venture. The book probes how being exposed to Western culture both benefits and destroys native peoples. A great read!
|
| Ellen |
The Lying Tongue by Andrew Wilson |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This novel, about an elderly pervert crossing paths with a budding sociopath in Venice, is written well enough to keep one reading. However, the whole arc of their actions isn't complete.
|
| Ellen |
The Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A murder mystery set in late Medieval England with a female medical examiner as the protagonist.
|
| Carol Riley (bookworm1957@adelphia.net) |
Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is like me. If I find a book and author I really enjoy, I want to read everything that person has written.
|
| Shelley (mlauerba@aol.com) |
Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a great story. It rang so true and the characters were well drawn. What a sad chapter in American history. I also enjoyed reading the interview with the author on bookreporter.com.
|
| Debra Le (deble_2000@yahoo.com) |
The Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very good hard-to-put-down book. It's about an aging rock star whose assistant buys him a suit that arrives in a heart-shaped box, along with a previous owner's ghost. I highly recommend this book.
|
| Shelley (mlauerba@aol.com) |
The Conjurer by Cordelia Frances Biddle |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Set in Philadelphia in 1842, this is an interesting mystery with a well-drawn setting of the time period, including the status of women and the poor. A lot of detail has created a very readable story.
|
| Shelley (mlauerba@aol.com) |
In Dublin's Fair City: A Molly Murphy Mystery by Rhys Bowen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is my first Molly Murphy Mystery but it won't be my last. Set in 1903, it is another well-drawn historical novel. Molly Murphy is a strong female character who is independent and smart; my kind of girl!
|
| Patti D. |
Snow Angel by Thom Racina |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A good mystery and page turner.
|
| Laura in Lancaster, OH |
Absolute Fear by Lisa Jackson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another great mystery by this wonderful author. It carries forward some plot lines and characters from SHIVER. This book had my attention right from the beginning and never let up. A great read.
|
| Susan Dyer (susandyer1962@aol.com) |
Beyond Recognition by Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This great book got me hooked right away and I can't stop reading!!!
|
| Heather (victoryenterprises_cleaning@yahoo.com) |
Deadstock by Kate Iola |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This fictional novel grabs your attention. I didn't want to put it down! It is a story that could really happen...an act of terrorism taking down our food supply. The author, a former scientist, does an excellent job explaing foot and mouth disease (FMD) without dry talk. The plot includes murder and money, two of America's hot topics. The main character, Tyke Lexington, is someone every woman would want to be and relate to. I found out about this book at kateiola.com. It's an awesome psycho-thriller. I can''t wait for the next one!
|
| Joyce K |
Blue Springs by Peter Rennebohm |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Set in 1955 Minnesota, the suspense in this book grabs you from the very first page and doesn't let go until the end. Charlie's story is heartbreaking and beautiful at the same time. This will stay with you long after you read the last page. I highly recommend it!
|
| Barbara |
Lisey's Story by Stephen King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Strange, but once you get into it, you cannot put it down. Many of the phrases throughout the story stay with you.
|
| Nancy |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Disturbing in many ways, but a wonderful read.
|
| Christy |
Names I Call My Sister by Mary Castillo, Lynda Sandoval, et all |
Rating: 4 Stars |
NAMES I CALL MY SISTER is a wonderful anthology with four stories of sisters and the love, support and frustration that comes with sisterhood.
"Diss-Connected" by Lynda Sandoval was a fun and light-hearted read about sisters Cristy and Marisol. Breaking her word about sharing secrets of her younger introverted sister's life, Marisol turns Cristy's quiet, orderly life upside down. There is plenty of humor in this read, which made this story my favorite.
Mary Castillo's "Till Death Do Us Part" was also a fun read with the Orihuela sisters at their brother's wedding. Grammy Cena brings a lot of laughter to this story of sisterly love, rivalry and devotion.
Roles have been reversed in "What Stays in Vegas" by Berta Platas. Big sister, Susa has always been the responsible, dependable one, but now she's left her family and run off to Vegas with a younger man. This leaves Anita, who has recently lost her job, searching not only for big sister, but also for a new direction in her life.
"Whipped" by Sofia Quintero is the story of Michelle's secret life and what it could do to sister Jen's political aspirations. This was a fun read with politics and bsdm thrown into the mix.
These were all fun well-written stories about sisters and the special bond and relationships that they share.
After reading these four enjoyable novellas, I will be adding all four authors to my shopping list.
|
| L. Hann |
I'm Not Really Here by Tim Allen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
If you like Tim Allen's humor, you will enjoy this book. I found myself saying "I do that." This fast read is light hearted and great for a laugh.
|
| Betty Jo (harrises@bayou.com) |
Which Brings Me to You by Jullianna Baggott, Steve Almond |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A fun read about past relationships in letter form. These two bare their souls in their correspondence.
|
| Priscilla |
The Memory of Running by Ron McLarty |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This is the book of the year for Reading Across RI. I read it because I am going to hear the author speak in May. I found the book a bit confusing ---- he switches back and forth and I found it hard to follow. I did finish the book because I wanted to find out what happened.
|
| Juanita |
The Virgin Blue by Tracy Chevalier |
Rating: 5 Stars |
VIRGIN BLUE is our April selection for our book group. It's also the second book by this author we've read. We loved GIRL WITH A PEARL EARRING, and VIRGIN BLUE promises to be just as good, if not better! I'm really looking forward to our discussion to hear the comments of all the others!
|
| Kim |
Killer Instinct by Joseph Finder |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Joseph Finder is an under-noticed author, and it's a shame. This is a wonderfuly suspensfull page turner of a thriller. If you like Harlan Coben or Brad Meltzer, then please do yourself a favor and try Joseph Finder. I listened to this as an audiobook, and as usual, Scott Brick did a magnificent job.
|
| Sally B., San Antonio TX |
See How They Run by James Patterson |
Rating: 2 Stars |
2.5 stars. Originally published as THE JERICHO COMMANDMENT, this early novel from Patterson (his second, I believe) was about Jewish defense terrorists attacking the Olympics in Moscow (1980) for revenge of the holocaust. This book read more like an abridged audio edition.
|
| L. Hann |
Digging to America by Anne Tyler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Two families each adopt a child from Korea, and they get acquainted while waiting for their bundles of joy at the airport. As time goes on, they reconnect and become friends. It is interesting to see how 2 "american" families have different views about raising their adopted children.
|
| L. Hann |
All I Really Need To Know I Learned in Kindergarte by Robert Fulghum |
Rating: 5 Stars |
"Uncommon thoughts on common things"! Robert Fulghum shows us that all we need to know about how to live and how to act is what we learned in kindergarten. Just to name a few:
Share everything.
Play fair.
Put things back where you found them.
These short little stories make you stop and think. I found myself going down memory lane.
This is a good book to share and keep on the bookshelf to read again.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Cross by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very frightening and thrilling. I love the short chapters, but cringe to think that people like The Butcher exist. I was disturbed by the child, Ali --- from where does he come? I missed something.
|
| Sue L. |
Absolute Fear by Lisa Jackson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Lisa Jackson does it again!! She has written another novel that keeps you guessing who done it!
|
| Donna |
Reading Judas by Elaine Pagels & Karen L. King |
Rating: 5 Stars |
With many new Gospels being discovered, it brings very interesting light into the ever-changing study of the early world of Christianity. The long-lost Gospel of Judas is insightful and a must read for anyone interested in studying the texts excluded from the New Testament --- especially the story of Judas.
|
| Patricia McClimans (pmcclimans@hotmail.com) |
Cell by Stephen King |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Edge-of-your-seat thriller. This was the first Stephen King book I have ever read, and it was great!
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Coming Home to Myself by Wynonna Judd |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It seems a coincidence that I read this within a week of Wynonna filing for divorce from her husband, Roach. This was a pretty good book. To be honest, I am not a big fan of the Judds. However, I have always been intrigued with the Mother and Daughter duet. I always wondered what kind of relationship they really had. I am not surprised of how tumultuous it was. I feel for Wynonna. I think her mother was not very supportive while Wynonna was growing up. Especially since she never revealed who her real father was. Wynonna didn’t find out until well into adulthood. To me, Wynonna is a beautiful and talented woman. She is definitely way too hard on herself. I think she tries too hard to be perfect and she is continually battling demons, one being her mother. She has a weight problem because food, she thought, was her only friend. Wynonna has a lot of great advice on parenting, self improvement and dealing with addiction and self loathing. I have a hard time understanding how such a beautiful, talented woman can feel so alone and unsure of herself. After reading this book, I think she is on the right track in resolving all of her issues. Hopefully, she won’t regress after the latest publicity regarding her husband.
|
| Donna |
The Last Coyote by Michael Connelly |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another excellent Harry Bosch novel. LAPD Detective Harry Bosh vows to uncover the truth of his mother's death from years past. Harry attacked his commanding officer and is suspended, pending a psychiatric evaluation. What better way to spend his free time than open up a 32-year- old case. One he has thought about for many years. He begins to find that his mother's death was covered up, and he's determined to find out why. When he finds out who killed her and why, he feels his life is very fragile and has to decide what to do with his future.
|
| Elaine |
French Women For All Seasons by Mireille Guiliano |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love this book! It is written by the author of FRENCH WOMEN DON'T GET FAT. Ms. Guiliano is the CEO of Clicquot, Inc., producers of fine champagne. She spends her time between New York City and Paris, so she is very familiar with the American way of life.
I find myself going back and forth between the text and the recipes. There are tips on entertaining, shopping, cooking, style and grooming. It is a French woman's guide to recognizing and savoring life's pleasures. A real treat!
|
| Elaine |
Honeymoon by James Patterson and Howard Roughan |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This book seems to have been written at break-neck speed. The chapters and sentences are short, and the author doesn't take the time to develop the characters. There is no depth to anyone in this story and the plot is thin and predictable. Skip this one.
|
| Peggy |
Cross by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you like thrillers, you will enjoy CROSS. A Serial rapist is on the loose, who may be connected to Alex Cross's wife's death, and the chase begins. A wonderful read. I had a hard time putting it down.
|
| Kate (melydia@zoiks.org) |
Hal Spacejock by Simon Haynes |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The incompetent-but-lucky man with his capable-but-frequently-eyerolling companion who repeatedly (and thanklessly) saves his butt seems to be a staple in humorous science fiction. Hal Spacejock and his robot sidekick, Clunk, are no exception. I won't say that this story has anything new and novel to offer, but it sure is a good time. I am especially enjoying the random side scenes, like Hal's altercation with a stubborn automatic door.
|
| Dawn |
Sandpebbles by Patricia Hickman |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A good inspirational novel that depicts an aging pastor with an overbearing daughter who has to face her father stepping down from the pulpit, and her son coming of age.
|
| Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
Falling Leaves by Adeline Yen Mah |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a memoir about a Chinese family and the consequences of a father's second marriage to a shrewish woman. It is a fascinating story of intrigue and hate.
|
| Helene Simpson (kicsi58@hotmail.com) |
The Last Heiress by Bertrice Small |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A great read, one of Small's best, I think. I can't wait till her next book comes out.
|
| Judy O. |
Obsession by Jonathan Kellerman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
For the most part, I enjoyed this book. It got very complex about halfway through, and you had to read very carefully. There were so many names and theories thrown into the mix, and I wanted to keep it all straight. I'm not sure I want to think quite so hard when reading for pleasure. However, it was a typical Kellerman.
|
| Debby |
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
After reading so many books recently that delve into heavy topics, it was a delight to read a well-told story just to enjoy a well-told story! This love story set in a circus community during the depression hooked me right away. Gruen balances tragedy and humor using a diverse slate of characters.
|
| Julie Towson |
The Lady in the Palazzo by Marlena De Blasi |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The third book in De Blasi's trilogy, following A THOUSAND DAYS IN VENICE and A THOUSAND DAYS IN TUSCANY. It is a wonderful-true life story of the author's life from Venice, Tuscany and now, finally, Umbria. It is written so beautifully, describing the countryside, the people, and the food. There are also recipes included. Anyone who enjoys travel strories will love this. De Blasi is a very gifted writer.
|
| Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net) |
The Good Life by Charles Colson and Harold Fickett |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent book for people who are seeking truth and real meaning in their lives. Colson has a great mind and expresses his views in a compelling and understandable manner. In the 1970s, he was best known as an assistant to President Nixon. He served nearly two years in a federal prison for Watergate-related crimes. Since then, he founded Prison Fellowship, a worldwide organization devoted to bringing the Gospel to prisoners all over the world. I strongly recommend all of his books.
|
| Corky Mayo (imardr2@yahoo.com) |
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This absolutely compelling work of literature is a must read and a great discussion book.
|
| Jean (Jeananders@aol.com) |
A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Hemingway was a master of description, and this book is no exception. Italy comes alive to the reader and the futility of war becomes the main theme in this classic World War I book. I recommend this book as a must read, both for its historical perspective and its development of characters. It is truly a love story that mirrors Hemingway's own life.
|
| Therion (BDNeill@yahoo.com) |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I tend to avoid bestsellers because I usually dislike them, but this book is one of the exceptions.
This is the story of a school shooting. The message is that we must punish people for their crimes. while also realizing that there is always more to the story than just the event itself. If we do not learn the why of crime, we will never avoid similar problems in the future.
The ending was unexpected and realistic, a rare combination. Even if you hate bestsellers, give this one a chance.
|
| Laura in Lancaster, OH |
Shiver by Lisa Jackson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
SHIVER is an excellent book. It was exciting from the start and never lets up. Filled with nice plot twists and great characters, this is a must read for mystery lovers.
|
| Sandra F. |
The Patriot by Piers Paul Read |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the story of a Russian patriot who is unable to accept the reality of the new Russia. Andrei Orlov hatches a scheme to hold art at ransom to finance a revival of the Communist Party. The plot has many holes in it, and the character development leaves something to be desired, but the writing is wonderful.
|
| Marie Miller (marie.serendipity@gmail.com) |
The Thirteenth Tale: A Novel by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Excellent book with a great storyline.
|
| Mel Barnes |
Color Me Butterfly by L. Y. Marlow |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an amazing book. I loved how it wound through 4 generations of a family. It was also great that there were some photos in the book, which provided one more way you are able to get to know the family and their story. I couldn't put this book down and read it on my lunch hour and both my 10-minute breaks at work. When I finished the book, it was great to know Lydia and her daughter had found freedom!
I wish I was in a book club to discuss it with others! I can't wait to recommend this to customers and book clubs of our bookstore. Every woman should read it.
|
| T. Thomas |
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Good, but not as good as some of her other mysteries.
|
| T. Thomas |
The Lost Painting by Johnathan Harr |
Rating: 3 Stars |
The search for a lost Caravaggio painting.
|
| T. Thomas |
Kitty and the Midnight Hour by Carrie Vaughn |
Rating: 3 Stars |
An above-average werewolf tale.
|
| Beth Cummings (mtc350@hotmail.com) |
The Dogs of Bedlam Farm by Jon Katz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Katz's second book, THE DOGS OF BEDLAM FARM, goes on to describe the life Jon Katz begins on a small hobby farm in upstate New York. He buys sheep, two donkeys and a third Border Collie. Again, his adventures are full of humor, pathos, and struggles to live a good life.
|
| Kathleen Vogel (kvsoon@aol.com) |
Cover-Up by Michele Martinez |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is the third in the series about a NY federal prosecutor/mother/divorcée, Melanie Vargas. Vargas is investigating the murder of a TV tabloid reporter. The pace is quick and her detail to procedure is great. Plus, there is just enough romance. I think COVER-UP is the best of her three novels.
|
| Kathleen Vogel (kvsoon@aol.com) |
Dry Ice by Stephen White |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoyed reading White's new novel. I had only read one or two of his other books, and I didn't feel I needed to go back and catch up to enjoy this one. White weaves a good tale, balancing Alan Gregory's personal and professional life along with the retribution of a character from his first novel.
|
| Marie (marie.serendipity@gmail.com) |
The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the best books I've read. It is about a man who has a disorder that causes his body to time travel. Thought provoking and powerful!
|
| Kathy |
NIneteen Minutes by Jodi Piccoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Again, Picoult has taken a very current, somewhat controversial situation and written a fantastic novel, a real page turner. The setting is a small high school in a suburban NH town, where a student shooting occurs. The author delves into the background of the whys and hows the shooting occurred. Rather than do this by straight timeline, she jumps back and forth between the present and the past, and does this so skillfully that the reader is not the least bit confused, and actually sees how the past led up to the current situation.
|
| Marie Miller (marie.serendipity@gmail.com) |
The Girls: A Novel by Lori Lansens |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A great book about conjoined twins. This wasn't a topic I was initially interested in, but this book drew me in from page one.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse |
Rating: 5 Stars |
She says so much in so few words. Written entirely in verse, this book tells the story of 13-year-old Billie Jo and her family as they struggle to survive the Oklahoma Dust Bowl of the Depression.
|
| Jenne Turner |
The Poisonwood Bible by Barbara Kingsolver |
Rating: 4 Stars |
My bookclub just read this book. We voted it a 4-star book. I loved the writing. Each character 'voiced' different chapters so the story was told from multiple points of view. One character had some delicious malapropisms, such as a tapestry of justice (travesty of justice), etc. One main character was not given a voice, but he was fully described and active in the book due to the other character's vivid descriptions of him and his actions.
|
| nina |
The Beach House by Mary Aice Monroe |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great book --- you learn about turtles.
|
| Sandra F. |
Captain Alatriste by Arturo Perez-Reverte |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This author's books are the best being produced today. This is a tale of a swordsman in 17th century Spain, and it is written in the tradition of the works of Alexander Dumas. A treat for history buffs.
|
| Jean (Jeananders@aol.com) |
Promise Me by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Harlan, my favorite mystery writer, combines mystery, suspense, and comedy, as well as likeable recurring characters. In PROMISE ME, Myron Bolitar --- the chief protagonist --- makes two teenage girls promise to call him if they are ever too wasted to drive home, instead of relying on friends in similar conditions. One girl does, and disappears immediately after Myron gives her a ride.
|
| Maggie Rioux |
Dry Ice by Stephen White |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is his newest book, and --- I think --- his best (even better than KILL ME). I (and Alex Delaware) learned that it's okay to keep things private, but secrets are bad. White just keeps getting better.
|
| Kathy |
Step on a Crack by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Per usual, James Patterson has created a real page turner in this novel. I don't know how he consistently does this. In this book, he actually has two plots going: one is a hostage situation, and the other is about a critically ill mother of ten who is on her death bed. He handles both exceptionally well. He devotes time to both so the reader doesn't find one detracting from the other. I recommend this to everyone. It is a real page turner.
|
| Marie Miller (marie.serendipity@gmail.com) |
March by Geraldine Brooks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is told from the perspective of the March girls' father from LITTLE WOMEN. He is off at war and it shows what he goes through. This offered a unique perspective on one of my favorite books.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Rumpole and the Penge Bungalow Murders by John Mortimer |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Another disappointing book about an old man rambling on about his past honors. Thanks goodness the story was short ---I read this for a book club, and I see very little merit in the book. I know that I will not read any more of this "series," which had to do with World War II and pilots who "fake" their plane crashing. And another pilot discovers the misdeed and sees that justice is served.
|
| Rita |
March by Geraldine Brooks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Did you ever wonder what was happening to Mr. March while the Little Women and Marmie were left alone? Yes, he went off to the Civil War. This is his story, and it is quite compelling. I enjoyed the explanation of where the March "fortune" had disappeared.
|
| Helen |
Bloodletting and Miraculous Cures by Vincent Lam |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I felt the story did not flow. It jumped all over the place and was therefore hard to understand. I did like the chapter on SARS. I learned what it was like for people living with it.
|
| Terri L. (terri.loeffler@sbcglobal.net) |
Garlic & Sapphires by Ruth Reichl |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I wasn't sure how I would like a book written by a restaurant critic, but this was fabulous! It was interesting enough to read about decadent menus at pricy restaurants, but most of all, I liked the things she learned about herself along the way. Really worth the read!
|
| Jenny Hooks (jennywindham@aol.com) |
A River Called Forever by Terry Moore |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is lighthearted, yet addresses a serious topic at the same time. It follows a young man as he is thrust in to the role of
caregiver to his aging parents. It is interspersed with memories from
his childhood, along with the trials of caring for those who once cared for him.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a wonderful book. It is a rare occasion that a book can move me to tears and to so much emotion. Rivers has a gift in developing her characters so deep that you actually feel their emotion being described. I was pleasantly surprised. This is a lovely book about love, friendship and the power of Christian faith. Highly recommended.
|
| Helen |
My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an incredible book, and an excellent choice for a book club. It always brings out strong opinions. I love the way Jodi writes each different chapter from the point of view of the different people involved.
You want to hate the mom, but you can understand how someone can just get caught up in that roller coaster and not get off while reading from her point of view. I hope no real family will ever have to live through it.
|
| David Graham (graham2124@aol.com) |
Mark Twain: A Life by Ron Powers |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Any Mark Twain fan should read Powers's biography. He presents a Twain that is funny, brilliant, aggravating, and even cruel at times, but always interesting. This was an excellent portrait of the developer of the American novel.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Female Intelligence by Jane Heller |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A story like MEN ARE FROM MARS, WOMEN ARE FROM VENUS, with a mystery intertwined into the fluff. It's also sort of like My Fair Lady, with a man to be changed. It was not very entertaining. The characters were not developed and had no sense of setting.
|
| Jud Hanson |
The Skystone by Jack Whyte |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is the first of a series called the The Camulod Chronicles. It's basically a backstory behind the familiar King Arthur legend. I am definitely hooked on it after just one book. The attention to detail concerning the decline of Roman power and the lawlessness that followed is amazing. I highly recommend this book.
|
| Janice |
The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Between running her Manhattan yarn shop, Walker & Daughter, and raising her 12-year-old biracial daughter, Dakota, Georgia Walker has plenty on her plate in Jacobs's debut novel. But when Dakota's father reappears and a former friend contacts Georgia, her orderly existence begins to unravel. Her support system is her staff and the knitting club that meets at her store every Friday night, though each person has dramas of her own brewing.
|
| ThymeWaits |
The Whispering Land by Gerald Durrell |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a reprint from 1962. It's not as good as I remembered it....
|
| Kay Keller |
The Dollmaker by Amanda Stevens |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This novel is a very well-written mystery set in the French Quarter of post-Katrina New Orleans and the bayous of Louisiana. I really enjoyed the authenticity of the places and language, and the book is very hard to put aside!! It's very enjoyable and full of suspense!!
|
| Margaret LaDue (laduea@frontiernet.net) |
Kill the Messenger by Tami Hoag |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A page turner.
|
| Margaret LaDue (laduea@frontiernet.net) |
Other People's Children by Joanna Trollppe |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very good read. This is the first book I read by this author. I found it at a library sale and decided to buy another book by her. She creates very different characters, similar to the way Anne Tyler writes.
|
| Noreen Brown |
A Three Dog Life by Abigal Thomas |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is about how lives can change in a split second. The author writes about how she deals with her husband's accident, and the changes it brought about. It makes you question how you would deal with a similar situation.
|
| Karen |
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 3 Stars |
It was a good read that kept me in suspense, but nothing more. But, sometimes that is enough.
|
| Heidi McIntosh |
The God of Small Things by Arundhati Roy |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very gripping read, as the full details of the violent death of a young cousin are not revealed until near the end. It was a difficult read to start off with, as lots of different character names and family members were being introduced in quick succession. However, the story settles down, and there actually aren't that many key characters to remember, so it is worth it to keep going with this book.
|
| Freida (dfpursel@concentric.net) |
The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Just finished reading THE KNITTING CIRCLE by Ann Hood. It was not only warm, sad, funny and hard to put down, but I have since started knitting lessons and have made a few great projects. It has helped me relax and want to read more "knitting books."
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Burro Genius by Victor Villasenor |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This autobiography is written with such passion that it sweeps you along. A severly dyslexic Mexican child growing up in 1940s Southern California is mistreated by his teachers, but loved and nurtured by his family. As in his previous nonfiction works relating the story of his family's roots in Mexico and migration to California, Villasenor peppers his work with the philosophy and beliefs of his grandparents.
|
| M. Blitz (MBlitz1@tampabay.rr.com) |
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah |
Rating: 4 Stars |
As far a biography, this book ranks towards the top. It is a story of a young boy in Sierra Leone during the terrible civil war in this country. You follow him through village and village, traveling hopefully towards safety. Although you realize his outcome (obviouslym he is writting the book), you hope that he finds safety and peace from the war.
|
| Diane Pollock (blacksnake@mchsi.com) |
Bloodsucking Fiends by Christopher Moore |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Laugh-out-loud funny!
|
| Jen |
Queen of Broken Hearts by Cassandra King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A good read, but it drags in spots. It is about a woman who is a divorce therapist helping people cope with divorce. It has the back story of the therapist's personal life, which is more interesting to me than her professional life.
|
| Jen |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Her latest book about school violence is a page turner. It looks not only at the victims' lives but also the killers, and how things can turn horribly wrong in a seemingly "normal" life. One of her best.
|
| Gordon Wilson |
The Romanov Prophecy by Steve Berry |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I'm really only a few chapters in, but Steve Berry has another winner going with THE ROMANOV PROPHECY. It takes only 9 lines of the story before the bullets start flying and Miles Lord is off on the ride of his life! So far, this book is like other Steve Berry bestsellers THE THIRD SECRET and THE TEMPLAR LEGACY, in that he pitches you into the story very fast and you are caught up in the action until the final page. Well worth a read.
|
| Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com) |
The Berlin Conspiracy by Tom Gabbay |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An excellent book. A former CIA agent is summoned to Berlin in 1963 when JFK is visiting. A KGB agent reveals to him that someone is going to assassinate the President and it is not an agent from the USSR. Who is the "secret" agent?
|
| kecc |
Pray and Die by Stella Whitelaw |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a new author and PI to me. I liked the characters and the mystery of it. Whitelaw is a witty writer.
|
| L. Hann |
The Treasure Box by Penelope J. Stokes |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Vita Kirk is looking for a storage box to store some CDs in. She goes to a local antique store and finds a handpainted tin box. That evening, a storm strikes and Vita's computer is transformed into a window to another time. What she learns will change her life.
You might just see yourself in this book.
Excellent!
|
| Coral Harrison |
Chill Factor by Sandra Brown |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a page turner, as good a mystery as you wish to find. You don't find out until the end who "done it." It keeps you guessing
|
| Patricia Ezzell (patriciart@aol.com) |
A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am so enjoying this wonderful tale about the struggles of the caste system of old India. The characters are richly drawn, and heartwrenching moments come to life in Mistry's writing. His words bring to life family courage and suffering, as well as the sites, smells, and tastes of a time in India's history during the split between Hindus and Muslims, and the attempt to rebuild the country. For me, it harkens back to Pearl Buck's THE GOOD EARTH, which was the book that changed my life forever by opening my eyes during my teen years to the world outside my comfortable USA. If you want to understand different cultures and enjoy reading about lands new and exotic, you might love this book too.
|
| Kathleen Smith (Lvchoclat@aol.com) |
The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Ann Hood draws on her personal experience of losing a child in this gripping book. I could identify with the main character's emotions, feelings, and actions, having lost two infants. The book is a testament to the courage of all women, no matter what challenges they face and how we can all help one another. Knitting saves the author's life, needlepoint saved mine during those dark days.
|
| Michelle Stein (msteins@comcast.net) |
The Sign of the Book by John Dunning |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the 4th in a series of Cliff Janeway "Bookman" Mysteries.
They combine the world of a retired policeman/ book dealer into taut, literary adventures.
Start with the first book in the series, BOOKED TO DIE, because the situations in the books relate to one another.
|
| Beth Schweikert |
Whitethorn Woods by Maeve Binchy |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Maeve has a wonderful way of creating interesting characters. I love learning about all of them and how they are all connected.
|
| Jean Elizabeth (Jeanirish@aol.com) |
The Secret of Lost things by Sherican Hay |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is a delightful story of a Tasmanian young lady, Rosemary, who movedsto New York and finds a book store to work in. This store is home to piles of books and manuscripts. We have Walter Geist, who is an albino going blind. The owner, Mr. peck, deals with rare books. Then there is Pearl, who is the loving transsexual. Oscar organizes the nonfiction section. Then, of course, is Arthur Pick who has a particul interest in photografing naked men. The story is about the girl's relationship with each of the eccentric people at the book store. There is a thread of a mystery that weaves through the story of finding Herman Melville's lost manuscript and how each person deals with the exciting news.
|
| Diana (bearzwitch@gmail.com) |
Cover-Up by Michele Martinez |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Martinez's writing is sharp and informative, and her recurring characters evolve with each novel. It is a well-written and very enjoyable book because I like my writers to have characters that we can form a friendship with. I also found that her earlier books were a wonderful introductions.
|
| Jenn Cantrell |
Stiff: The Curious Life of Human Cadavers by Mary Roach |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read this book for my book club and found it fascinating. The author has a fantastic sense of humor, which made the subject much more tolerable. The conversation it generated during the meeting was fascinating.
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| Janis |
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is spellbinding! My book club consists of busy teachers, and we were planning to meet today. We haven't all finished the book, so we are postponing the meeting until next week so that we can all discuss the entire thing!
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| Judy O. |
The Other Side of the Bridge by Mary Lawson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Two brothers, Arthur and Jake Dunn, could not be more different. Arthur is reticent and dutiful, and all he wants to do is farm like his father. Jake is charismatic and manipulative, and he has no interest in farming, or work of any kind. These two brothers become involved with Laura March, and both of them vie for her attentions. This is a wonderful story of love, revenge, and many deep emotions. The climax of the story is horrifying but inevitable. It takes place in a small town in Ontario, partly during World War II and partly during the 1960s. This author also wrote the highly regarded CROW LAKE.
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| Eileen Quinn Knight |
Abide with Me by Elizabeth Stout |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is such a wonderfully tender story about a single Dad who is also a minister. He struggles to keep his life together and his children in his home after his wife passes. The story is written with compassion and care that one feels for the Dad. I would recommend it to all. Elizabeth also makes reference to many Biblical and church texts that make it even more enjoyable to read without overdoing it!
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| Judy Goldsmith (judyjtg@sbcglobal.net) |
The Intellectual Devotional by David S. Kidder |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is the thinking person's answer to the daily devotional fad. One topic on one page with a different general category of knowledge for each of the 7 days of a week.
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| Maureen |
The Pursuit of Happyness by Chris Gardner |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An enjoyable and interesting read about the true story of Chris Gardner.
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| Maureen |
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'm just beginning this book, but I am already hooked. I hope this continues --- it's great so far.
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| Fran |
Riding the Bus with my Sister by Rachel Simon |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the sweet story of a woman who decides to spend a year with her mentally disabled sister, doing what she does every day --- riding buses throughout the city. The narrative fluctuates between the past and present, alternating between memories of growing up with a disabled sibling and through their experiences together in the present.
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| Lori (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
The Gun Seller by Hugh Laurie |
Rating: 4 Stars |
"Dr. House" star, Hugh Laurie, wrote a great book a few years back, and this is it. An ex-Scotts Guard officer with a sarcastic and quirky sense of humor who wants only to stay out of trouble, but gets involved with the British Secret Service, the CIA, international terrorists, a nasty arms dealer and various beautiful women --- of course. Somewhere between James Bond and Naked Gun! A few times I think I chuckled out loud. It's that funny.
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| Janice |
Sisters by Danielle Steel |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A good beach read, even though I live in the Midwest!!! Good for sisterly bonding.
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| Shelly |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of Picoult's best books yet. I haven't been able to put it down since I started reading it. Don't miss it!
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| Janice |
Skylight Confessions by Alice Hoffman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
On the day of her father's funeral, 17-year-old Arlyn Singer decides the first man who walks down the street will be her one love. That night, Yale senior John Moody stops to ask directions, and Arlyn and John take the first passionate steps toward what will become a marriage of heartache and mutual betrayal. So begins the story that forks to follow the divergent paths taken by the Moody children.
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| Jayne |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
As usual, Jodi Picoult has written another wonderful book. It kept my attention throughout, and really made me think about all the characters. Loved it.
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| Jayne |
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of my all-time favorite books. I couldn't put it down, and loved the characters. I wanted the story to go on and on. I actually bought a signed first edition of this book. My first such acquisition. That is how much I loved this book.
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| Linda Sheehan (linda.lsheehan@gmail.com) |
The Painted Kiss by Elizabeth Hickey |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you like art, you will love this book. It's a fictionalized account of the painter Gustav Klimt of Vienna and his companion, Emilie Floge, who opens a women's salon. It's well written and fascinating, and follows Klimt's rise to success, though his path is strewn with women.
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| Joan |
Step On A Crack by James Patterson & Michael Ledwidge |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Patterson and Ledwidge have a new detective, Michael Bennett, who has a full plate with 10 children, a sick wife, and hostages being held in St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City. It's interesting to see how the hostages are going to be rescued, and if the criminals get away.
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| Janice |
Coming Out by Danielle Steel |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I can already tell by the title what is going to happen. A little more formulaic than some newer ones.
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| DC |
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Excellent writing and a gothic setting make this one of the best novels I've read so far this year! A reclusive bookseller interviews a famous author who is finally going to tell "the truth" about her life, as she dictates her biography. A nice, dark, and entertaining mystery!
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Shopaholic & Baby by Sophie Kinsella |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book brings us back to Becky as we know and love her. I have to say, the story is full of wacky Becky fun and can't wait to see if the next book in this series takes on the Momzillas.
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| Arthur Harriman |
Echo Park by Michael Connelly |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Connelly's protagonist, Harry Bosch, ranks --- in my estimation --- among the finest of detectives. His struggles and failings bring him closer to ourselves, and we wish him well in his grim, rather solitary, career.
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| Myrna |
I, Mona Lisa by Jeanne Kalogridis |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a fascinating piece of historical fiction and mystery. It describes the politics, culture, and religious influences in 15th century Florence during the times of the Medicis, Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and the religious fanatic Savonarola. Narrated by the young woman, Madonna Lisa, who poses for the painting that is to become world-renowned, it's a real page turner, and a great way to learn about the intertwining of politics, art, and religion at that time. Even if it's fictionalized, it answers some of the questions behind the mysterious Mona Lisa.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Looks to Die For by Janice Kaplan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a great murder mystery/chicklit novel. The mystery kept me guessing and reading on. I couldn't put it down. The main character, Lacy Fields, had me cracking up at some of her antics, and then biting my nails out of fear that she wouldn't get out of some of the scrapes she got herself into. I would definitely recommend this book!
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| Dot L. |
Runaway by Aalice Munro |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Our book group just read RUNAWAY, the first book of short stories we have read. Some of us loved it, others hated it, but we had a GREAT discussion about it. It really got us thinking about the theme running through the stories --- running away from someone or something, or running toward something. Interesting.
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| Susan P. (Sue07647@aol.com) |
The Double Bind by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is more of the typical good writing we've come to expect from Bohjalian, but it's richly peppered with literary references to THE GREAT GATSBY. Read or re-read that classic before sinking your teeth into THE DOUBLE BIND. The ending/revelation will make your jaw drop.
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| Nicky |
Something Rotten by Jasper Fforde |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is a little confusing because it involves time travel, but it's a lot of fun because the author is really clever! Thursday Next is an amazing character, but i'll never look at Hamlet the same way again!!
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| Beth Cummings (mtc350@hotmail.com) |
A Dog Year by Jon Katz |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Jon Katz shares a lot of his life and philosophies in his memoirs/essays about his dogs. In A DOG YEAR, he chronicles life with two older Labrador Retrievers and how his life changes when he decides to get a Border Collie, and then a second Border Collie. The labs were peaceful companions on walks and while writing. The Border Collies needed work and the work that Katz decided to try was sheep herding. Quite an adventure.
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| Lisa Richardson (keizerfire@aol.com) |
Chill of Fear by Kay Hooper |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I love Kay Hooper's books, and have for a long time. This wasn't the best she's done, but it's still way better than a lot of other books I've read. Now I have to find the next in this Special Crimes Unit Series.
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| Priscilla (pmflynn@webtv.net) |
Fudge Cupcake Murder by Joanne Fluke |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another Hannah Swensen
Mystery. Light reading, light humor, light romance, all of which come together to make a nice read. The recipes are great, which are a nice added touch.
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| Sandra Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com) |
Queen of Broken Hearts by Cassandra King |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very good read! I'll read more of her books. I loved the characters and the writing style.
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| Carol Rile (bookworm1957@adelphia.net) |
Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruis Zafón |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Intrigue and suspense keeps your readig this book.
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| Kate Millard |
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philiipa Gregory |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Nobody writes historical fiction better than Phillipa Gregory. I hadn't read this one, and with the new series "The Tudors" beginning next week, it seemed a particularly good choice. I loved it!
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| BMK |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodie Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Ms. Picoult has captured the essence of today's high schools. Her characters are so real, you wish you could change the outcome.
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| Susan |
Family Tree by Barbara Delinsky |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I am still reading this, but it would bring up good issues for a book discussion --- especially what happens when you are a different ethnic color, and you and your family wonder why you are not the same as they are. I know my book club would bring some great discussion to the table.
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
For One More Day by Mitch Albom |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I loved this simply written book and the way Albom looks at the regrets we all have. I highly recommend this to everyone.
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I love the way Picoult writes, but I was disappointed with the ending of this book. Regardless, this was a very good page-turner that I had trouble putting down.
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Momzillas by Jill Kargman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have to say, this book has taken Mom Lit (Chick Lit with Kids) to a new level. MOMZILLAS is one of my favorite books that I have read this year, and I can't wait for this to be made into a movie.
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Boomsday by Christopher Buckley |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have loved Buckley's writing since I first picked up WRY MARTINIS. This book proves why! He is a genius at current satirical commentary and you can believe that this subject is in our future debate.
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| Wendy Catalano |
The Book Of Lost Things by John Connolly |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful story of a young boy's adventure into a world of the unknown.
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| Sandra Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com) |
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book! Hated to see it end.
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| Pam C |
Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An old rock star, Judas Coyne, buys a suit on the internet thinking it's a joke. It's suppose to come with a ghost --- and it does. And it's not a nice one....
I recommend this book. It's great!
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| Dot L. |
Kabul Beauty School by Deborah Rodriguez and Kristin Ohlson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book offers a lot of insight into the lives of Afghani women and how they are just like us. Even though they are repressed, they can still have fun and take pride in their appearances. It's an enlightening look at another culture.
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| Virginia Allain |
Shopaholic & Baby by Sophie Kinsella |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Becky Brandon continues her shopaholic ways while preparing for baby's arrival. Her life is consumed by finding the trendiest baby outfits, nursery fittings, and the perfect pram. Of course, the other aspects of her life tangle and the complications multiply as she finangles for a new home, worries about husband Luke's fidelity, and tries to salvage the reputation of the store where she works. There are funny scenes at every turn (the sonogram, shopping for the pram with Luke, switching to the celebrity doctor, hiring a private detective).
It's great to reconnect with her friend Suze, her designer buddy from NY, and her family. Sure, Becky's self-centered, scatter-brained and impulsive, but I don't think she's intended as a role model.
The humorous situations that she finds herself in make for super-fun reading. Amazingly, she stumbles along and somehow makes it through each goofy problem, though she frequently creates another one in doing so.
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| Olga |
Mad River Road by Joy Fielding |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book really held me right from the beginning. At times, the suspense was unbearable. The villain in this book was truly frightening because he was so unpredicable and so smart. The ending was a surprise, and not at all what I thought would happen. If I was in a new relationship, I would be very apprehensive after reading this book.
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| Ricki (rickimc@aol.com) |
Paradise Alley by Kevin Baker |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very well-written and well-researched historical fiction novel that takes place in New York during the Civil War draft. At times, however, it could get a bit long.
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