| M. Blitz |
Size 12 Is Not Fat by Meg Cabot |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fun read about a ex-pop idol and her life as a "residence hall" assistant director, aka a dorm assistant director. The book is a murder mystery, but definitely a lighthearted look at solving the serial crime.
|
| Rachael |
Death by Chick Lit by Lynn Harris |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a hilarious page-turning whodunit that is written very well. I highly recommend it. It kept my interest throughout the whole book, and I devoured it in 2 days.
|
| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
The Cleaner by Brett Battles |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you love mysteries/thrillers, this one is great. I'd have never, ever guessed the ending. Without a doubt, I'll be sure to grab Battles's next book.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This was different from the kind of book I normally like to read. The setting of the book was very interesting. 15th Century Italy is not an era I know much about. This book didn’t rock my world, however. I liked the story overall, but I think I could have done without all the descriptions of how you paint a wall. And I found it very hard to believe that you can freely have sex in a convent. I liked the character, Alessandra. She was definitely a woman born well before her time. It was hard for me to truly understand the ending.
|
| David Allard |
Nine Months in August by Adriana Bourgoin |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Adrianna Bourgoin has written a very special book here.
Gretchen Stirling is a good Catholic girl who, even though married, doesn't want to tell people she's pregnant 'because then they'd know we had sex.' This is the story of her friendships, her job as an event coordinator at a hotel 'in Massachusetts where gay marriages are legal,' with the trials and tribulations that go with it.
It's also her story as a girl who, at 16, lost her father in an automobile accident and ended up feeling like she lost her whole family. Now 'my mother's crazy' sums up her feelings.
The story, the relationships, her life, evolve through the nine months of her pregnacy. There's so much humor, tongue-in-cheek comments and the realities of a first time pregnancy, with its fears and adjustments for both her and her husband Fredrick throughout this book that make it a joy to read.
|
| pageant4u from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
Promise Not to Tell by Jennifer McMahon |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Great book --- can't put it down! Set in Vermont, Kate's family moves and she has only one unusual friend, "potato girl." The book is about friendships, ethnic hate, betrayal. You'll love it.
|
| pageant4u from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
The Tattooed Girl by Joyce Carol Oates |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an exciting story about Joshua Seigl, a writer in search of an assistant to help him sort through all his papers and manuscripts. He hires a young girl who is covered with tatoos and has an unusual birthmark on her face. Alma is a young woman who suffered abuse, neglect, committed crimes and is addicted to drugs. Joshua's sister Jet is hateful, revengeful, and loves to stir up problems. In the end there are deaths. Great reading!
|
| pageant4u from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book, about a traveling circus in the 30s, looks at the lives of performers and workers. It shows relationships, different classes in the circus, and some of the madness (mentally and physically) that go on. The story is seen through the eyes of Jacob, a Cornell vet student who ends up homeless and penniless and comes across the circus. He relives all the excitement and drama from an assisted living center.
Great book! Couldn't put it down.
|
| Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Wolf Tales IV by Kate Douglas |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This continuing tale of the shape-shifting Chanku was a pleasure to read. It's fast paced with an interesting story line, well-written characters and hot and erotic sex scenes. If you haven't read the first books in the series, make sure you do first. I'm eagerly looking forward seeing what the Wolfies are up to in the next book.
|
| Bonnie |
Hundred-Dollar Baby by Robert B. Parker |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Typical sardonic Spenser mystery. You either like it or not. It's formulaic, but it works.
|
| Carlie (crazylass@email.com) |
The Inspector Rebus novels by Ian Rankin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was coming back home to Scotland by train from south of the border and sat next to a gentleman. Just before we arrived in Glasgow Central, he gave me the book sET IN DARKNESS. 18 months later, I started to read the book out of sheer boredom. When I finished the book, his words "you'll be hooked by he end of it" came to mind. 6 weeks later, I am on my 11th Rankin novel and I can't put them down. The writer has displayed such a talent in these books. I would recommend them highly. As you get to know Inspector Rebus, visit the places in the book --- it makes the books seem even more alive.
|
| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Speak Now by Margaret Dumas |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great cozy mystery. It just goes to show you never truly know who you are married to! A nice light read --- perfect for vacation or the beach.
|
| Laurel |
The Ministry of Special Cases by Nathan Englander |
Rating: 5 Stars |
THE MINISTRY OF SPECIAL CASES by Nathan Englander continues to insinuate itself into my thoughts daily and I turned the last page of the book over two weeks ago. Since I always have a book in hand and two or three or thirty waiting in the wings, the fact that Englander’s book is still on my mind is extraordinary. I cannot know what it’s like to live in a country that suffers military coups and political unrest on a regular basis, but Kaddish and Lillian Poznan’s anguish at the ‘disappearance’ of their only son is a feeling no parent wants to experience and one I think most parents contemplate at some time or another. Englander acutely captures how a couple can be alternately drawn together and pulled apart by tragedy.
There’s so much more to the book than this (as if that isn’t enough). Shame is a topic the author explores, and in Pato, Englander gives the reader an accurate picture of a 19-year-old ‘young adult,’ complete with anger, sexual self consciousness and political (remember this is the 70s) awakening.
Not a beach read, but if you’d like to add something relatively heady to your summer list, I highly recommend this book.
|
| Laurel |
Consequences by Penelope Lively |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A chance meeting on a park bench in England at the start of World War II sets the scene for Penelope Lively’s book, CONSEQUENCES, and introduces the reader to a cast of characters it’s a joy to know. You meet Matthew and Lorna Faraday, a couple who feature strongly in others’ lives long after they have departed from their own. Through love and art the book brings you full circle back to their lovely cottage in Somerset. Well-written and vividly pictured and peopled, this is an excellent book (plus it has a great cover!).
|
| Jean |
The Two-Minute Rule by Robert Crais |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first time I've read Robert Crais. I'm enjoying THE TWO-MINUTE RULE immensely. It's a fast-paced book that has me riveted.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Good Little Wives by Abby Drake |
Rating: 3 Stars |
First, what a joy to know that underneath that polished look of the ultra-wealthy lurks "common" secrets. The four trophy wives in this book were interesting and varied, but character development was lacking. The interaction among the women was fun, but where was the cattiness and backstabbing. I was amazed with the fate of Caroline, it just not ring true with the rest of the story. The husbands seemed flat and uninvolved. No one seemed to show too much emotion. I especially like Dana, how she cared about other people, and for her loyalty to the other women.
There were just too many self-absorbed women living meaningless lives. With these characters and their lack of relationships, this book would make a good book club selection.
|
| Sally B., San Antonio TX |
Lucky by Alice Sebold |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Unabridged audiobook read by the author. A very good, heart-rendering account of the author's rape and assault.
|
| Lori S. (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
Cry Wolf by Tami Hoag |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Tami Hoag writes great murder/romance/mystery novels that take place in the deep South. This is one of her best. Don't think of it as a syrupy romance novel. There is much more going on here.
|
| Jean |
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Superb! Beautifully written, and rich in detail of life in Afghanistan. This is one of the best books of 2007. It's better than THE KITE RUNNER, and that is saying a lot.
|
| Julie Peterson (jpeterson1108@comcast.net) |
Dead Center by David Rosenfelt |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Once again, I thoroughly enjoyed a David Rosenfelt Andy Carpenter book. I loved the mystery aspect, but I think the humor of the novels is what keeps me coming back. I highly recommend these books if you want a smart lawyer/mystery read.
|
| Christy Hawkes |
Repair To Her Grave by Sarah Graves |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Jacobia Tiptree is back again with another mystery in this fourth book in the Home Repair Homicide series.
I enjoy Ms. Grave's descriptions, not only of the town, but of life in Eastport.
Her characters are all unique and you will find yourself reading the story just for the funny and insightful things they say and do. REPAIR TO HER GRAVE is a fast-paced, fun and intriguing read that I highly recommend. I look forward to seeing what Jacobia is up to in the next book.
|
| Lisa M. |
Eating Heaven by Jennie Shortridge |
Rating: 4 Stars |
EATING HEAVEN is an excellent book to discuss with a book group. It covers many topics, including eating disorders, sibling relationships, parent and adult/child relationships, caring for a sick relative, etc. Loved it.
|
| Val Stark (vstark@quincylibrary.org) |
Dirty Martini by J. A. Konrath |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Jack Daniels is back! She's protecting the streets of Chicago in the 4th book in the series. This time, she has to find a serial poisoner before he brings the city to a complete halt. This series is one of the best!
|
| Kristy Mallet |
Smoke by Elizabeth Ruth |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book was chosen as the 2007 "One Book, One Community" selection for my city, so of course, I had to read it! It is a beautifully written story filled with moving, deep characters and a twist ending that is quite unexpected.
|
| Judy O. |
If Today Be Sweet by Thrity Umrigar |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Tehmina Sethna is trying to decide whether or not to permanently leave her home in Bombay and move to the United States to live with her son and his family. As she is visiting her son in Ohio, she unexpectedly becomes a hero in the eyes of many people, which seems to give her life purpose after the death of her husband. This is a good book, but there were several sections in it that really dragged for me. I loved this author's earlier work: THE SPACE BETWEEN US. All in all, I would recommend it.
|
| Paula |
Dream When You're Feeling Blue by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A family becomes closer during World War II while supporting the troops overseas and living with rations and coupons. It is coming-of-age story and also describes the bond of sisters.
|
| Diane La Rue (laruediane2000@yahoo.com) |
Slip & Fall by Nick Santora |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Fans of John Grisham and James Patterson will enjoy this debut novel by the writer of TV's "Prison Break".
Brooklyn lawyer Rob Principe is having a difficult time getting his solo law practice off the ground. Drowning in debt and with a pregnant wife and pregnant sister abandoned by her boyfriend, Rob feels he is at the end of his rope. Meeting with his cousin, a mobbed-up enforcer leads Rob into a dangerous scheme.
The book really picks up the pace midway through, and once Rob is in over his head, you will race to get to the end to find out what happens. The characters are fairly stock, but the story will keep the reader invested. This would make a great movie!
|
| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
Persuader by Lee Child |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I would rate this more than 5 stars. I have heard a lot about the Jack Reacher novels and decided to try one. I am glad I did. This is an excellent book --- well written and very believable characters, as well as action packed and fast paced. I am looking forward to reading more books.
|
| Jocelyn L. Maningo |
Before I Go by Riley Weston |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An amazing book that places you right into the middle of a 16-year-old girl's life, her family, and her one friendship with her soul mate. Madison's sarcastic personality and her need to be as strong as she can will easily make this a book that you refer to time and time again.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Driving With Dead People by Monica Holloway |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An interesting memoir about a terrible family life in the Midwest. It's hard to believe that every family is not like "Father Knows Best." How can parents be so rotten, and that no family member steps in to help?
|
| Crystal Johnston |
Brother Odd by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Dean Koontz has not lost his flavor in BROTHER ODD. It is the last in the Odd Thomas< trilogy, about a young fry cook in the deserts of California, in a city called Pico Mundo. Odd can see the dead who have not yet moved on from this world. This ability brings him to both good and bad avenues. He is also psychic, and when his psychic magnetism antenna is going, there is nothing he can do but follow it.
Going through many stressful events recently, Odd decides to take himself to a monastery in the California mountains to rest. He is there about seven months, up to the beginning of early winter, when the first snow is expected. While walking in the early morning hours, he comes across a monk lying face down in the grass near the monastery. As he goes to help, he is hit on the back of the head.
When he awakens, he is alone, and the monk is gone. He raises the alarm, and the police are called, but the monk is not found and Odd is perplexed. After the police leave, Odd is literally chased inside by something unreal, supernatural and deadly. This sets off his psychic magnetism bells, which are ringing off the hook.
Dean Koontz' latest book on Odd Thomas is one to be read. Not only does it bring those lovers of suspense their needed bread and water, but there is that warm and human side of Odd that touches even the hardest of hearts to wish they all had an Odd brother.
|
| Kay Keller |
Honeymoon by James Patterson & Howard Roughan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
It's easy to see why this book was billed "International Thriller of the Year." A compulsive read --- almost impossible to put down!! This is one of the best thrillers I've read in a long, long time. "Black widow" is the only hint I'm giving for the plot!! I wouldn't take this book on a honeymoon, but I sure would take it on vacation.
|
| Mary Ann Weaver (honeywest66@hotmail.com) |
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I only thought I raised myself until I read Walls' book, THE GLASS CASTLE. I empathized, and then I got angry. I know there must be people who live that way but why can't they get that they are responsible for their children?
Despite all that, I couldn't put the book down. I laughed, cried, and kept reading. What a great storyteller the author is.
|
| Emily Mason |
The Year of Secret Assignments by Jaclyn Moriarty |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book, nominee for the Georgia Peach Book Award, is one of my favorite summer reads so far. I must say that Moriarty caters directly to teenage girls in this romantic, mysterious, revengeful, and edgy comedic novel. The book is a compilation of documents such as letters, e-mails, and school notices that play out the lives of three best friends and their correspondence to three boys from a rival school. It's definitely a fun-filled, twisting, unexpected adventure.
|
| June Tuomi (btuomi@citlink.net) |
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary HIggins Clark |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I received this book as a early birthday present. I didn't know if I would like it because I don't care to read books when they involve bad things happening to children. Boy, was I surprised. This was a wonderful book to read. I have always enjoyed Mary Higgins Clark, but I believe this is one of her best. It keeps you guessing until the end about who did it. This is a great summer read.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
The Assasin by Andrew Britton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A spy book with a Middle-Eastern influence. A page turner.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
The Kill Artist by Daniel Silva |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A good read that's full of suspense.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
The Innocent Man by John Grisham |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A nonfiction book about the wrongful imprisonment of 3 men in the south. It gives you much to think about regarding the judicial process.
|
| Jen Stein |
The Monk's Son by W. R. Wilkerson III |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I absolutely loved this book! I saw it in a small wire display while waiting in line at a local cafe (a generic Starbuck's), and I picked it up because I was intrigued by the title and the stunning cover. There were a few people ahead of me, so I started reading the first few pages just to keep myself occupied while waiting for my turn to place my order. I was immediately sucked in by the beautiful descriptions, the plot, and the interesting characters, and I ended up purchasing the book along with my coffee and muffin! This book did not let me down, and I enjoyed it immensely. I loved how the author had a few different storylines going on at the same time (they all ultimately tied into each other).
The book is primarily about Steven, who was abandoned at birth, and Michael, who was orphaned during World War II. Both boys were adopted and raised in the monastery, but they ultimately end up leading very different lives. I won’t give away the ending, but I will tell you that you do NOT want to miss this book.
|
| Norine Gremse (nono@toast.net) |
Crooked Little Vein by Warren Ellis |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This book is shocking in the worst way. It involves a quest to find a copy of the Constitution that was written with certain facts never released to the populace. However, the story really depicts our society at its basic worst. I wouldn't have read this book if a request had not been made. The author is very sharp and offers many bits of material that are truly funny. However, the sexual proclivities portrayed aren’t for me. Ellis is a great author and his characters are very well developed, but the sex and depravity had me seriously question how far our society has spiraled down.
|
| Norine Gremse |
The Husband by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is brilliant writing, with tremendously well-defined characters, and plot development that will keep you reading as if you're eating potato chips. It is great!
|
| Donna |
Agatha Raisin and the Witch of Wyckhadden by M. C. Beaton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you love cozy armchair mysteries, you need to start reading M. C. Beaton. In this adventure, Agatha goes to Wyckhadden for privacy and ends up seeking the local witch for a potion. The witch is found dead and the strange residents of the hotel where she is staying have secrets that prove motive for revenge. As usual, she finds the need to help the local police solve the case. And, of course, Agatha finds a new love she is sure to be with forever. She is always looking for the love of her life. It's another great read from Beaton.
|
| Judy O. |
Too Late to Say Goodbye by Ann Rule |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Bart Corbin was a dentist in Atlanta, and his wife committed suicide by shooting herself one night in their home. However, when police discovered that 14 years earlier, his then girlfriend had died in an identical way, they started a harder investigation of both "suicides". I read this book in 2 days because I couldn't put it down. Ann Rule's books are always so compelling, and this one is no exception.
|
| Genie |
Canapes for the Kitties by Marian Babson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is set in an English village of Brimful Coffers, where mystery writer, Lucinda Lucas has lived for six months. A main reason to buy the cottage, aside from quiet countryside, is the freedom it provides for her cats Had-I and But-Known. At the encouragement of their mutual acquaintance and fellow writer, Dorian King, several other writers move into the village. The veritable enclave includes Lucinda's close friend Fredericka (Freddie) Carlson and Lancelot Dalrymple, a.k.a. Macho Magee, (the name of the hero of his tough-guy stories). Macho's cat, Roscoe, is a frequent visitor at Lucinda's. Others in residence are book critic Plantagenet Sutton; magazine editor Gemma Duquette; Gemma's noisy, bickering neighbors Karla and Jack Jackley; Betty Alvin, girl Friday to Dorian; and Gordie the maintenance man.
Strange incidents begin when Jackley, while taking photographs, falls into the bonfire at Dorian's Guy Fawkes Day party. The next incident happens a short time later when Gemma is diagnosed with food poisoning. Incidents turn eerie when Lucinda finds pages from her typewriter in which her fictional sister sleuths are plotting her demise. Matters turn serious with the deaths of Plantagenet and visiting author Ondine van Zeet. Dorian is saved from a similar fate due to the actions of three nosey cats. As it turns out, Dorian's motive for literary in-gathering proves to be monetary and leads the main characters to consider common factors that linked the victims to one another. The solution to it all arrives in a surprise confrontation.
|
| Lori Barnes (photoquest@bellsouth.net) |
McKettrick's Luck by Linda Lael Miller |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am new to the reading world and am loving the new books I read.
MCKETTRICK'S LUCK is a fantastic story! It takes place in Indian Rock, where Cheyenne grew up. But, she has since moved away and has painful memories of this place. Now, she works for a real estate firm who wants to buy a large amount of property here. The land is owned by Jess McKettick, (I imagine him to be a very fine-looking man) whose roots run deep, and is not about to sell.
The story unfolds easily, and you feel as though you know these people. I loved this from beginning to end. It's a must read, and I can't wait to read the next one in this series.
|
| Margaret F. |
Love Kills by Edna Buchanan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Edna Buchanan artfully weaves the characters from her two series, Britt Montero and the Cold Case Squad, into a thrilling chase to stop a man who marries and murders his young brides.
|
| Sherri |
Free Food For Millionaires by Jin Lee |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I never wanted this story to end!
Lee's an amazing writer.
|
| Barbara Stahr |
Step On a Crack by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a fast-moving novel and had a high interest level for me. Some of the story was not quite believable, but was interestingly woven in. I was unable to determine who the hijackers were, but was surprised that the police had to have it suggested to them. A personal story was included and helped showed the detective's conflict with his ability to concentrate on his job..
|
| Chrislin Payne (chrislinpayne@yahoo.com) |
Wicked by Gregory Maguire |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Wow, this is a read. I wish L.Frank Baum could be writing this review. I am still in the middle of the book. I feel sorrow and grief for the witch, but I admire her strengh. It makes me understand what it must be like to be so different. Interesting.
|
| Marsha |
Death Do Us Part by Edited by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 3 Stars |
These are eighteen gripping stories about relationships. They vary from interesting and complicated encounters between lovers, strangers and dear friends. It's a fun read. Fast and forgettable.
|
| Reva Wamsley (prwamsley@roadrunner.com) |
Jupiter's Bones by Faye Kellerman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a book in the Peter Decker & Rina Lazerus series. He's a cop, and she's a devout Jewish widow. They meet on a case and fall in love in the first book. In this installment, they have been married for a while and have a daughter. He is investigating a death that takes place in a cult-like compound.
|
| Alexis |
Dust by Martha Grimes |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Grimes is always good, and this is no exception --- its sexier than usual, and Inspector Jury is overwhelmed!
|
| Christy Hawkes (hawkes@citlink.net) |
A Hard Man To Love by Kathleen Lawless |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Ms. Lawless has written a fun and enjoyable contemporary erotic/romance with interesting characters and fun settings.
Montana Blackstone is trying to get her dream of a destination Spa off and running. Her mother-in-law hires Steele Hardt to help run the ranch, but Steele has a different reason for being there. Both of the characters are fiercely strong willed and independent. The love scenes are plentiful and the locations are just as varied.
I look forward to reading WICKED NIGHT GAMES with Steele's younger brother, Sloan Hardt.
|
| Lauren |
Mr. Maybe by Jane Green |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Easy read, but a little predictable.
|
| Sherri |
The Gravedigger's Daughter by Joyce Carol Oates |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Oates always is a dependable author for wonderful stories that you never want to end...
|
| Lauren |
Charmed Thirds by Megan McCafferty |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Hillarious!
|
| Michele L. |
I Take This Man by Valerie Frankel |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I TAKE THIS MAN is an entertaining portrait of relationship hang-ups, vengeance, and one missing groom. Valerie Frankel scores again with a humorous story that had me laughing until my sides hurt. Penny and Bram are a misguided couple that needed help in finding their true feelings for one another. The skewed relationships of all the main characters, Penny, Bram, Ester and Keith are so immensely appealing in depth and characterization. I absolutely adored the antics in this story. Frankel wonderfully explores family relationships with incredible insight, humor, and compassion. Readers will find this a zinger of a story that is a pleasure to read.
|
| Vicki Kennedy |
Bad Monkeys by Matt Ruff |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A strange tale about an operative working for an organization dedicated to eradicating evil. It’s definitely different, but I liked it.
|
| Michele L. |
It Had To Be You by Sarah Webb |
Rating: 5 Stars |
IT HAD TO BE YOU is a wonderful story of daydreams, joined-at-the-heart friends, and life's problems. The friendship between these women is intertwined throughout the story. I was impressed by how Sarah Webb delicately reveals all the different characters in the novel. Each woman has her own set of problems, and it was fun to see how each one deals with it. The story moved at a fast pace. I read until the wee hours of the morning, anxious to see what would happen next. This is a refreshing, fast-paced romp with a charming love story at its heart.
|
| Michele L. |
Charmed & Deadly by Candace Havens |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you like witches, demons, and fast action galore, then this is the book for you! Globe-trotting Bronwyn, a high witch with extraordinary powers, is back in top form, ready to destroy the sinister demons that seem to be crossing her path a lot lately. This is the third installment of the intriguing, paranormal Charmed series by Candace Havens.
CHARMED & DEADLY is an eye-popping adventure filled with evil demons, boyfriends good and bad, drop-dead sexy guys, and best friends. Candace Havens scores again with delivering an award- winning performance, where good versus evil in the pursuit of power. Bronwyn has her hands full keeping the men in her life free from danger. I was reading along at breakneck speed anxious to see whom Bronwyn was going to save next. The story is full of action, demon-slaying, sparkling magic, and romance. Bronwyn and Sam make a wild, romantic couple with one little problem, and that is trust. They are working on it, though. Bronwyn's friends, in Sweet, Texas, are a hilarious and fun bunch of people with plenty of mouthwatering, southern food. I absolutely drooled over the chicken-fried steaks, mashed potatoes, and apple pies at Lulu's restaurant. The dialogue is smart and intense. Her characters have distinct edges that lend themselves to both humor and villainy. Fans of Candace Haven's Charmed books will absolutely treasure this new adventure.
|
| Nyla Thompson |
Back Roads by Tawni O'Dell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very good read that I can't put down. This book is on the "Readers Guide." It's O'Dell's first book. Harley's Dad was murdered, his Mom is in prision. He has three younger sisters to raise. It's hard for Harley to know where real life, dreams, and nightmares start and stop. He's part child, part man, part saint, and part sinner. Sometimes, it's hard to pick out what he is and when. Loved the book!!
|
| Michele L. |
Any Place I Hang My Hat by Susan Isaacs |
Rating: 5 Stars |
What does a girl do to fit in with the world? Shop for shoes? Amy Lincoln's idea is to uncover facts about the mother that she never knew. Amy deals with her emotions and finally puts things right in her life as the answers to her past unfold.
ANY PLACE I HANG MY HAT is a bright and insightful story of fitting in, painful break-ups, and family relationships. Amy is a smart, likable and brave woman who searches for the mother she never knew. I really like the confident, spunky, female factor she has going for her. Amy makes a name for herself by becoming a political reporter with In Depth magazine. The story of a lifetime presents itself while she is at a political campaign party. A young man declares that he is the son of the guest of honor, Senator Thom Bowles. As Amy explores the senator's past, she decides it is time to examine her own past.
Amy is led on a trail of self-discovery as she uncovers details about a mother she never knew. I was reminded of how special the relationship is between parents and their children. Susan Isaacs is a masterful storyteller. She unfolds the story deftly and masterfully reveals the closely guarded secret of Amy's past. This novel will no doubt satisfy Isaac's fans and new readers alike.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
The Knitting Circle by Ann Hood |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book about a group of women and their secrets, with the knitting easing the tongue to allow the story to unfold. Again, I will say that women have lost the much needed camaraderie of old.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Never Change by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I put 3 authors in the same echelon, Tyler, Shreve, and Berg. I think, Berg is my favorite. I have read several of her books and the thing I recall the most about them is her words. I have written down several of her quotes from the various books I have read. She has a way of putting into words things you have thought but couldn’t really find the words to say. I felt a personal pull to this book since my mother is a nurse and I could never understand why she enjoyed her job so much. This book shed some light --- it isn’t just a job, it’s the people.
Berg created a great character for this book, as well. Myra isn’t necessarily that pretty on the outside. Therefore, she doesn’t attract the people she longed for. However, once you had the privilege to meet her, you recognized the incredible beauty inside. I think Myra realized this about herself at the end of the book. At least, if she didn’t, she was on her way. This is another book by Berg that has left an impression on me.
|
| Nicole (kelley899@yahoo.com) |
Bimbos of the Death Sun by Sharyn McCrumb |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Great mystery that takes a good look at science fiction fans and conventions. So funny, even if you read SF, as well as mystery.
|
| Sandy |
Simple Genius by David Baldacci |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This one was very good! The chapters are short, so it is easy to sit and take a 5 min. break and read one. The CIA, FBI, and secret codes make up a great tale.
|
| Kay Keller |
Lifeguard by James Patterson & Andrew Gross |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I thought I was grabbing a "beach read" and was I ever surprised! Great suspense and "hang on for a wild ride" type thriller is how I would describe this book. This is so much better than a "beach read." I really like the action-packed short chapters.
|
| Brenda Broadway (Broadway1b@aol.com) |
When Parents Hurt by Joshua Coleman, Ph.D. |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a well-written self-help book. However, it is difficult to read at times due to whatever healing or hurting phase the reader is in. I would recommend this to all parents of children of any age...hurting or not.
|
| Madeline |
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It's got an edge, a creepiness, a darkness to it from the get-go. It's a little twisted, a little freaky, but it's pure suspense --- a grimacing, gasping, edge-of-your-seat read.
|
| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Forever Odd by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Love Odd Thomas!
|
| Jewell Lee (julbloom55@yahoo.com) |
Death of a Songbird by Christine Goff |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A "birder" mystery and a great beach read, this book was passed to me. I am in the third chapter, and it's a good and very descriptive mystery. A business owner disappears after just starting a new business, telling customers no more deliveries and drops out of sight. One of the business partners decides to go looking for her, resulting in more "mysterious events"
This book is fairly well put together so far, kind of like an adult Nancy Drew, centering around the "Birding" community.
|
| Shirley Younger |
A Woman In Charge by Carl Bernstein |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The author shows us the true life of Hillary Rodham Clinton as no one else ever has. Bernstein shows how Hillary was instrumental in the victories and troubles of Bill Clinton as governor and president. This book allows you to answer many questions about Hillary and her political philosophy. You find out 'who she is', and your expectations of her. A WOMAN IN CHARGE is a very interesting book, expecially since she is a presidential candidate.
|
| AnnieH (annieh@centurytel.net) |
By The Light Of The Moon by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Surprising things happen in this thriller. It's a page turner, you just have to find out what's going to happen next!
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Girl Sleuth by Melanie Rehak |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Interesting look at this phenomenon in children's literature. It's somewhat dry, gets bogged down in places, and reads almost like a master's thesis. Still, it held my attention and I did finish.
|
| Janice |
The Camel Bookmobile by Masha Hamilton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very enjoyable read --- not only did I learn more about African culture, I got to remember the excitement I felt as a child when the bookmobile would come to our street.
|
| Judy Goldsmith (judyjtg@sbcglobal.net) |
The Heart Knows Something Different by Youth Communication |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Interesting first-person accounts by teens in foster care.
|
| Bridget |
The Woods by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I could not put this book down. A mystery with lots of twists and turns. Coben never disappoints!
|
| Peg Schoenfelder |
Instances of the Number Three by Salley Vickers |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A unique study of an unlikely combination of characters --- a widow, her husband's lover, and his ghost.
|
| Richard Bartels (r-bartels@sbcglobal.net) |
The Greatest Generation by Tom Brokaw |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am a Vietnam veteran. My father-in-law is a veteran of World War II --- he spent 33 months in the Pacific and made 7 landings. My wife gave him this book for Christmas a few years ago, but he doesn't read any more, so, last week I read it aloud to him. We were both caught up in these personal rememberances.
|
| Margaret Hill |
Next of Kin by Joanna Trollope |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I remember this author from the now out-of-print magazine, Victoria.
She writes with the typical British "stand-offish-way," while at the same time, fully penetrating the characters.
|
| Richard Bartels |
Dirty Blonde by Lisa Scottoline |
Rating: 2 Stars |
Every male's fantasy of a high-powered woman (a judge this time) sleeping around with working class guys she picks up in bars. She didn't seem so empowered to me. And, the plotting was weak. A disappointment.
|
| Janice |
Family Tree by Barbara Delinsky |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The plot is an interesting concept that makes you look at how you feel about racial differences
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Hunger by Lan Samantha Chang |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A novella plus short stories that explore the immigrant's hunger for love, for acceptance, for success, for lost tradition, and how one parent's desire for fulfillment can tear a family apart. Excellent work. I'm eager to read more by her.
|
| Mel Barnes |
There's No Place Like Here by Cecilia Ahern |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was lucky to get an Advanced Readers Copy, as I love her other books I was excited to hear she had a new one coming out. Her stories are whimsical and are based in Ireland, where the author lives. This story is about a girl who grows up searching for missing things, those socks you have lost in the dryer, people who have never been found, etc.
Check her others books out and put your order in for this one, you are sure to love it!
|
| Judith Bridger |
Arlington Park by Rachel Cusk |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Although well written, ARLINGTON PARK is a rather depressing look at five women who struggle to find meaning in their lives. The rainy-day setting adds to the gloom of the women as they examine their choices, families, and selves. Some interesting questions are raised, but I found myself eager to complete the book so I could move on to something brighter!
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Ya-Yas in Bloom by Rebecca Wells |
Rating: 2 Stars |
A huge disappointment --- I loved LITTLE ALTARS EVERYWHERE and THE DIVINE SECRETS OF THE YA-YA SISTERHOOD, but this book did not deliver the same punch. The characters are all there, but the book lacks focus.
|
| Wendy Catalano (wendycatalano@hotmail.com) |
Privileged Information by Stephen White |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The first book in the Alan Gregory series.
He is a psychologist and his patients are being murdered one by one.
Couldn't put this book down.
|
| Jen |
The Woods by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Four teenagers in the woods...two are dead and two are missing. 20 years later, the events come back to haunt the brother of one of the missing teens. This is Coben at his page-turning best.
|
| Lela Fox (bubbysgammaw@peoplepc.com) |
Family Tree by Barbara Delinsky |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of the best books I have read in a while. It is about a new baby born to this very influential couple. It happens to have dark skin and shows every sign of being black. The husband accuses her of infidelity, and she is crushed when she learns that against her knowledge, he has had a paternal test taken. She loves the child just as it is and wonders why he has to question her or the baby.
There must have been some history of black blood in her family because it certainly couldn't be his. FAMILY TREE was just so good. I find myself reading it constantly. A sure winner!
|
| Dawnymae |
Return to Me by Robin Lee Hatcher |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very good look at the prodigal daughter coming back home after 7 years. She lost her inheritance, her pride, and the one man she ever loved. Very interesting take on the bible story.
|
| Patty (wolfie53@sbcglobal.net) |
The 6th Target by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very easy and very interesting book, and just as good the first 5 in the series.
|
| Coral |
Daddy's Girl by Lisa Scottoline |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Natalie Greco teaches law and justice at a college, but the rest of her family works in construction. She helps a fellow teacher teach a class at a prison, where a riot breaks out, and she finds herself in horrible circumstances. This is a good mystery by a good author.
|
| Sandy |
The Last Run by Todd Lewan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a true story of a rescue on the seas of Alaska. There were hurricane force winds, a dramatic Coast Guard rescue, and men out at sea on a sinking ship. It was hard to put down.
|
| Lori S. (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
The Dog Walker by Leslie Schnun |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very funny story of Nina Shepherd, a professional Manhattan dog walker who has keys to her clients' apartments, though she rarely sees them. This is how she falls in love with Daniel, sight unseen, who she feels she knows from snooping around his apartmnt when she picks up his dog for walks. But what about when they finally DO meet? This is a fun book made even better by all the wonderful dogs you meet.
|
| Lori S. (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant by Anne Tyler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is reportedly Tyler's favorite of her many books. Told in flashbacks of different characters, it's the story of Pearl, the dying matriarch of a very odd family in Baltimore. She recalls her husband's disappearance in 1944, causing her to raise her three children on her own. She wants to reunite all of them one last time but the children, all grown, have their own bitter memories which they each have to come to terms with before meeting at the one son's restaurant for one last meal. You can't help but find yourself drawn into the lives of this dysfunctional family and caring.
|
| Scribehermes (scriblerconsciousness@gmail.com) |
Maps by Nuruddin Farah |
Rating: 5 Stars |
MAPS is the first installment of the Blood in the Sun trilogy by Nuruddin Farah, the Somali writer who lived in exile for 22 years as he feared vindication by the then dictator General Siyad Barre. MAPS is about the boy Askar and his relationships with his surrogate mother Misra, his Uncle Hilaal and Aunt Salaado, the Somaliland and finally, with himself. The words flow through the pages like an epic poem from the great oral tradition of Africa.
|
| Vicki |
When the Emperor Was Divine by Julie Otsuka |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I was having trouble getting into this slender little book for some reason, but the audiobook just flew by and left a strong impression of what it was like for the Japanese families who were sent to internment camps during World War II. Told in a minimalist style with little emotion, it still has great emotional impact.
|
| Ginny |
Wolves Eat Dogs by Martin Cruz Smith |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a dark story of Arkady Renko, Smith's detective created in GORKY PARK, and his efforts to crack a case in the ghostland of Chernobyl. Though the detective's search is interesting, it is the understory of the subculture that lives in that "dead" area that gives the book its strength. I listened to an unabridged audio book.
|
| Patty (wolfie53@sbcglobal.net) |
The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a good read, but I didn't know it the book consisted of different stories. Some weren't quite as interesting as they could have been.
|
| Lisa M. (bookover25729@comcast.net) |
Lovers and Players by Jackie Collins |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Highly, highly recommended! A fast-paced story filled with sex, lies, betrayal, the rich & famous, and family. Jackie Collins at her best!!!
|
| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
The Good Guy by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I ove the characters and the great dose of that Koontz humor, but the ending, at least for me, didn't fly close to the realm of believability.
|
| Jeanie |
The Book of Bright Ideas by Sandra Kring |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I took this book on a trip and I am afraid I wasn't very good company in the car, and I'm sure I missed some pretty scenery because I couldn't put the book down for very long. Button meets Winnilee, another 9 year old, when she and her sister end up in the same little town after her sister leaves a bad relationship. This story is told through the eyes of Button and it kept me entertained.
|
| Ginny |
The Land of Mango Sunsets by Dorothea Benton Frank |
Rating: 4 Stars |
What an enjoyable read, and a study in relationships and how creatively we listen! I've never read this author before, but I will again. Minor note, but constant irritation, throughout, is the parrot the main character lets walk around her house. Parrots chew and poop. Next time, she should get a more realistic pet for her main character.
|
| Vicki |
Grace (Eventually) by Anne Lamott |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I listened to this in audiobook format read by the author, and love listening to her tell her own story. Lamott is an insightful writer and a joy to read or listen to.
|
| Lisa M. |
Two Little Girls in Blue by Mary Higgins Clark |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Not my most favorite of Mary Higgins Clark's books, but nonetheless, was a decent read. The story became predictable, though the identity of the villian in charge of the kidnapping of the three-year-old twins came as a surprise.
|
| Lisa M. |
The Cleaner by Brett Battles |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An amazing debut novel, which will be published later this month. This book has it all: mystery, suspense, espionage, exotic locals, unexpected comic relief, and a little dash of romance to boot.
Jonathan Quinn is a freelance operative - a professional "cleaner". Nothing too violent, just disposing of bodies, doing a little clean up as necessary.
His assignment is to investigate a suspicious case of arson. But when a body turns up where it should not be, he finds that he may be in over his head. Partnered with his apprentice Nate and a woman from his past, he struggles to find out who wants him dead.
I absolutely recommend this book to all and am looking forward to the next book in this series.
|
| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
There Goes The Bride by Lori Wilde |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I consider this classic chick lit. Poor Delaney Cartwright...as a girl she is an ugly duckling and she still can't see herself as the beautiful swan she has turned into. She's got a snobby, socialite mother with her own secrets, that she is afraid to go against. She talks to the ghost of her dead sister in her dreams. She's marrying her best friend, who she loves as a brother. Then she finds the perfect wedding veil that legend says is magic. When she puts it on for the first time, she sees the man of her dreams, and he is definitley not the man she is engaged to. In one of the funniest scenes I have ever read, she does meet the man of her dreams and fate (and a little help from some meddling senior citizens) keeps bringing them together. This book is fresh and funny. A great read for the contemporary romance fan.
|
| Lisa M. |
The Quickie by James Patterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is James Patterson's next upcoming book, set to be released within the next few weeks. In typical Patterson style, it's easy to read, with short chapters. THE QUICKIE was very suspenseful and was hard to put down. Highly recommended.
|
| Lisa M |
Sisters by Danielle Steel |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another great Danielle Steel novel. Fans will not be disappointed. A very easy, fun, summer read.
|
| Kathy L |
The Land of Mango Sunsets by Dorothea Benton Frank |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Frank is back on track with this one. New Yorker Miriam Elizabeth Swenson's life has its ups and downs, and right now it's somewhere in between. A visit back to her SC roots on Sullivans Island shows her it's time to make a few changes --- all in typical Frank style with a cast of atypical characters. (How do all the friends in her books know just the right people?) A great beach read, even if it's not on Sullivans Island.
|
| Elaine |
Bobbie Faye's Very (very, very, very) Bad Day by Toni McGee Causey |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A truly fun-filled delight for a summer's weekend. You can't help but smile throughout the whole novel.
|
| Brenda Snell (bksnell@hotmail.com) |
The Innocent by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I literally couldn't put this book down! It has been a long time since I read a book completely in one sitting. It was well worth the lost night's sleep. It was the first book by this author that I had read, but it won't be the last.
|
| Noreen Brown |
100 People Who Are Screwing Up America by Bernard Goldberg |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Put your politics aside and read this book. It is thought provoking, sad, funny, and in some cases, infuriating. And NO, it's not all about politicians.
|
| Ginny |
Olivia Joules and the Overactive Imagination by Helen Fielding |
Rating: 5 Stars |
What a wonderful book! I laughed and enjoyed every minute of this unabriged audio book. Olivia is as carefree, unrealistic, and funny as a main character can be as she sees an international plot in every situation and ends up really solving one. Olivia has all of the appeal that Fielding's earlier heroine Bridget Jones did, but in today's setting.
|
| Fran |
Magic Hour by Kristin Hannah |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This novel was a story of a child psychologist who is called upon to help a severely abused feral child. Both Julie (the psychologist) and Alice (the child) develop a wonderful bond, and in essence, save each other. I loved this book. I read it in one day!
|
| Barbara Duncan (barbaralynduncan@yahoo.com) |
A Dangerous Beauty by Sophia Nash |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Don't let the cover fool you. This is more than a love story. A great choice for beach reading!! Enjoy!
|
| Julie Towson |
Soul Patch by Reed Farrel Coleman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the fourth installment of the Moe Prager Mysteries. He is an ex-NYPD cop turned PI and has a gut wrenching case to solve. It kept me turning the page, and makes me want to read the first three.
|
| Ginny |
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a beautiful story of the relationship between two Chinese women who have different social statuses, but develop a deep friendship and love.
It is the story of two girls growing up in China, and it is one of the most touching and revealing novels I've encountered. This deep look into the world of a woman in that male-dominated culture reveals the mindset that enables mothers to break and bind their daughters' feet to keep them from growing normally, turning them into "golden lilies" so they can make a good marriage. Some girls die from infections that set in, but that is just part of the way of life. With normal feet, a girl will never be desirable. And as the "golden lilies" are just a part of a culture in which women are treated like goods with the lowest status, isolated in their households with other women as they do sewing and embroiderery, the inner strength they must develop to help them survive is celebrated. What a wonderful novel!
|
| Rita |
The Collaborator of Bethleham by Matt Beynon Rees |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is noted as the start of a new mystery series. I felt that the mystery was secondary and the tension of the politics of Bethleham was primary. It is well written and moves quickly with a likeable hero in his fifties. The age of the hero is important to the story, as he is definitely not a James Bond, but just an ordinary man with principles. His actions are guided by these principles as he comes to the conclusion that sometimes you just have to take a stand despite the dangers to self or family.
|
| Wanda (stevens_8@sympatico.ca) |
Facing The Fire by Gail Barrett |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is not a huge book that will take you a month to get through. It's short, sweet, and has an ending that will make you melt.
|
| Carol |
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I read this book in two sittings, and would have read it straight through if my eyes could have taken it. Great story! It puts faces to the reports we've read in the news and makes it all more real.
|
| Vickie |
Simple Genius by David Baldacci |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Wow! SIMPLE GENIUS has believable intrigue and lots of CIA and FBI terror plots, along with a little girl who is a somewhat strangely endowed genius. Murder and depression go hand in hand in this thriller that is yet more proof that Baldacci should be writing movie scripts.
|
| Vickie |
The 6th Target by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The Women's Murder Club headed by Lindsay Boxer is trying to solve kidnappings and visiting one of their own who was gunned down on a ferry. With wit and his usual quick prose, Patterson and Paetro catch the reader quickly into the net and you can't put the book down until you have read it all!
|
| Marsha |
Rainbow's End by Lauren St. John |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a memoir of a girl's life in Rhodesia that includes ruthless Rhodesian terrorists, war, race, patriotism, and the breakup of her family.
|
| Sandra Washington |
Think Big:Unleashing your Potential for Excellence by Ben Carson, MD |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is a must read because this positive story shows what hard work, determination, and faith will allow one to accomplish. It makes a great "extra gift" for high school and college graduations.
|
| Mo (maestraw@msn.com) |
Body Surfing by Anita Shreve |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Not her best, but also not her worst. Rather predictable.
|
| Louise Keene |
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Hosseini, author of THE KITE RUNNER, has done it again ---perhaps even exceeding himself.
A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS examines the culture of women, among other things, in Afgan history of the last thirty years.
|
| Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com) |
Notes on a Scandal: What Was She Thinking? by Zoe Heller |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Psychological suspense at its best. Don't miss the book or the movie!
|
| Rosemary Simm |
Death In A Mood Indigo by Francine Mathews |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This mystery involves the beaches of Nantucket. The atmosphere is definitely small town and native attitudes. Cleverly written and secretive. I will look for her other books featuring Merry Folger.
|
| April A. |
Never Change by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A heartbreaking but wonderful story about finding love later in life. Highly recommended.
|
| Jill F. |
The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is recommended for 9 - 12 year olds, but I think anyone would enjoy it. It has beautifully drawn pictures to tell the story and there is a mystery to keep anyone interested. If this book doesn't win a Children's book award, I will be very |
