| Teri (tlb46rka@aol.com) |
Memorial Day by Vince Flynn |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is my third Vince Flynn novel and I'm loving him. I'm new to the espionage and international political thriller genre, and it's because of Vince Flynn's novels. It's excellent and fast paced. The plot is awesome. The main character, Mitch Rapp, is a no-nonsense CIA operative who does what it takes to get the job done. If you haven't read Flynn, give him a try. You won't regret it.
|
| Sandy |
The Cleaner by Brett Battles |
Rating: 4 Stars |
If you like spy novels with lots of twists and turns, you will love this one! This is the first book by this author and I will be looking for his next one. The main character is Jonathan Quinn, a freelance operative with a take-no-prisoners style and the heart of a loner. His job? Professional "cleaner." Nothing too violent, just disposing of bodies, doing a little cleanup if necessary.
Get busy, Brett, and write the next one!!
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| Judy O. |
Between the Tides by Patti Callahan Henry |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I love reading books about the South Carolina Low Country, and this one is full of that "flavor." A young woman has spent close to 20 years feeling responsible for a small boy's death. When she goes back to her former home, she has to confront the ghosts of her past and come to terms with them. A great character study.
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| Marsha |
Bad Company by Jack Higgins |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Higgins writes about the waning days of the Nazi regime and Hitler's secret diary that could spell problems for the present US President. Sean Dillon and his British Intelligence agents (that fly a bit under the radar) are assigned to keep the diary out the the wrong hands. A fast read.
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| Judy O. |
The Abduction by Mark Gimenez |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I really wanted to really like this book because I enjoyed the author's first one, but I found the plot so incredibly implausible that it was hard to keep reading. A little girl is kidnapped from the neighborhood ball park, and her grandfather is aggressively looking for her. There were just too many coincidences, convoluted relationships, and stilted conversations for my taste.
|
| Lesa |
Reclaiming History by Vincent Bugliosi |
Rating: 3 Stars |
First of all, this is a HUGE book! I had to take the jacket off because the book weighs so much that it kept sliding out while I was trying to figure out a way to hold it. That said, it's worth the effort if you're at all interested in the JFK assassination and all the conspiracy theories surrounding it. The author does tend to slip into sarcasm a little too often, but the book still gives an exhaustive amount of information.
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| Barbs (barbs1225@aol.com) |
Black Ice by Linda Hall |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is truly a great read. It's full of mystery, suspense, and what family will do to protect their own.
The story begins with a two-month-old baby abducted at a community baby shower. The story jumps forward to 20 years later when a young girl is found strangled in one of the yards in this small community called Fog Point. The story just takes off from there and intrigues you up until the very end. I was hooked from the first page and read the entire book in two days. An excellent novel.
|
| Lorna |
Honeymoon by James Patterson and Howard Roughan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
You can never go wrong with a Patterson book. What I always love are the short, to-the -point chapters. This is another great suspense story with, of course, a twist at the end. This is about a women and how she does away with the men she loves...
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In reading some reviews on Amazon.com, everyone seems to be saying the same thing… This book is about Bill Bryson’s attempt to walk the Appalachian trail from beginning to end. I do agree with that. But to me, it is so much more. This book is loaded with so much great information on camping, the environment, government bureaucracy, people, friendship, US History, botany, zoology and of course the Appalachian trail itself. Add to this Bryson’s humoristic talent and you have a recipe for a must read. I would read this at night and feel compelled to share excerpts with my husband, whether he was interested or not. I loved this book so much, I have already ordered another one of Bryson’s books and I can’t wait to read it!
|
| Cheryl |
Taken by Chris Jordan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I had never read anything by this author before but will be checking out more of his books. This book started out with lots of action and kept going till the end.
|
| Ruth |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I wasn't overly anxious to read this for my book club, but found it to be an absorbing story with a heartwarming ending.
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| Ariel Houser (shedr465@aol.com) |
Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent book for students who are learning about slavery. It talks about how this little girl gets shackled up by Americans to go to slavery. You have to read this book, it is a fantastic read.
|
| Elaine |
The Informant by James Grippando |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An unknown informant sends a reporter information on murders that have not yet occurred and demands payment for further predictions. The FBI becomes involved (and of course the FBI agent is beautiful, smart, etc.). Entertaining.
|
| Susan in AZ |
Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This novel is about Cornelia, a 31-year-old cafe manager, whose life changes when a debonair Cary Grant look-alike walks into her life. However, it's not the man who changes her, but his daughter, Clare. The child, abandoned by her bi-polar mother, is now under the care of her father, who hasn't the vaguest idea how to be a Dad. Cornelia's heart goes out to the little girl, and the two form a close bond. The only problem is Cornelia is not in love with Clare's father; in fact, some days she doesn't even like him that much. Still, she hangs on for Clare's sake. The big question is how far will Cornelia go for the love of this little girl?
I enjoyed the conversational style of this novel, although I got a little irritated with Cornelia at times. I also thought the story wrapped up in a too-tidy, unrealistic way. Still, I think it's an engaging story that's worth reading.
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| Marsha |
Middle of Nowhere by Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The "Blue Flu" has struck the Seattle Police Force and Lou Boldt experiences pressures in his personal and professional life that hold us all in suspense. A good thriller with plenty of action.
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| M. Blitz |
The Sanctuary by Raymond Khoury |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a great book; however, it takes a while to get into it. It is definitely a thriller.
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| Susan in AZ |
Mistress of the Art of Death by Ariana Franklin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One reviewer described this book as "CSI meets THE CANTERBURY TALES" and I can't agree more. The story is set in 1171 and features Adelia Aquilar, a doctor from Salerno, Italy. Educated in Salerno's famed medical school, where women are taught alongside men, Adelia is a qualified physician. However, her gift is reading corpses. Because the occupation is considered unfit for a woman, Adelia must work in secrecy. When the King of Sicily orders her to travel to England to investigate the murders of several children, she must be even more cautious about revealing her profession and her purpose. As she works with her colleagues to find the killer, she finds herself in increasing danger, not only from the murderer, but from the ignorant clergymen who would burn her at the stake for practicing witchcraft.
This book is a fast-paced, engrossing thriller. Despite its setting, this novel has a contemporary pace and feel. It's a page turner of the highest order. It is fairly gruesome however, so beware.
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| Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net) |
The Wall by Jeff Long |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Mountain climber Hugh Glass and his friend Lewis are preparing to climb El Cap, a near-vertical wall in Yosemite. Just before they begin, a woman climber falls to her death. Hugh and Lewis find themselves drawn into a rescue to find the woman's two partners. The story is, quite literally, a real cliffhanger. The author obviously is a veteran climber, which makes the story feel all the more real.
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| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
The Man She'll Marry by Ann Roth |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is book #1 of a 3-book series. A good, light, romantic read.
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| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
It Happened One Wedding by Ann Roth |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Book #2 of the 3-book series. I'm anxious to pick up the 3rd book so I can read more. Another light, romantic read.
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| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
Lust: An Anthology Of Torrid Romance by various Whiskey Creek Press authors |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book is aptly named. It is a collection of short stories and poems that are very erotic. The contents include the following:
"Lady Rothburg's Advice" by Emma Wildes
"Mercenary Desires" by Jane Leopold Quinn
"Concealed Weapon" by Barri Bryan
"Chocolate At Midnight" by Susan M. Sailors
"Red Willow" by Louise Bohmer
"Hope Finds Hope" by Lois Wencil
"Taming Thera" by Cheri Valmont
"Moving Day" by Jamie Hill
"Lust" by Barri Bryan
"Secret Birthday Wishes" by Kristina Diesen
"When The Wolves Whisper" by Brenda Williamson
|
| Karen Lidoshore |
Brandon Sparks and the Hidden Sun by Joshua Fuld |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I work with children all day and one of them recommended I read this book. The characters are wonderful (especially Charlie), and the story sucked me in. I don't normally read Sci-Fi/Fantasy but I loved this book!
|
| Fran |
Other Fish in the Sea by Lisa Kusel |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Overall, this was an enjoyable book. It took me a while to get into the writing style as the story is told from many different perspectives, but once I got into it, I enjoyed it. Elly was a likable character, although I often felt bad for her lack of self-worth.
|
| Priscilla |
Moon Women by Pamela Duncan |
Rating: 3 Stars |
It is a story of 3 generations of southern women. It is a pretty good book --- I haven't finished it yet but I would recommend it.
|
| Maureen H |
Night by Elie Weisel |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a short book that kept me reading. I felt thankful for my comfortable life while reading it. While reading this book and after, I mourned along with the author for the loss he suffered during this horrendous time in our history. Thank you, Elie, for writing about this time in your life. This should be required reading for every high school student!
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| Marsha |
The First Victim by Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This thriller featuring Lou Boldt involves the importation of illegal aliens in container ships from Hong Kong. We learn quite a bit about the Chinese Triads, INS, television news anchors, etc. It's a real winner.
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| Fran |
Eye Contact by Cammie McGovern |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I loved the premise of this book. A murder is committed and the only witness is a young autistic boy. The author did a beautiful job portraying a character with autism, but the overall murder plot/mystery left a bit to be desired. I expected more from the story.
|
| Sharon |
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Definitely a woman's book! During the time of emperors in China, women learned their own secret writing, which they used to correspond with other women. This is the story of two young girls who become paired, or laotong, for life. Their relationship continued through the ravages of life in China. It gave the reader a chance to learn how life was in China for women.
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| Maureen H |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent book! I really loved the way Sara tells this story, which made me feel like I was there with all her characters. What an emotional ride this story is, and I will never forget this wonderful book!! I loved it!
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
The Handmaid and the Carpenter by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I thought Berg’s take on the birth and young life of Jesus, with Mary and Joseph, was interesting. Because the story in the Bible leaves a lot of questions unanswered, it is easy to want to hypothesize what the more in-depth, detailed story was. I think Berg did a pretty good job. This story did not flow as nice as some of Berg’s other works, I think, because she tried to pull in as much of the Biblical story she could and expand on it. I am sure that had to be difficult. This is a very unique book, one I may read again around Christmas time when I want to be reminded of the true meaning of the holiday.
|
| Bonnie |
Alas, Babylon by Pat Frank |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A remarkable novel about a post-apocalyptic world, first published in 1959. It tells of one town in Florida that survived the bombings and radioactivity when much of the world was destroyed, and how the people there fared and reacted. Totally engrossing and believable.
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| Donna |
No Time For Goodbye by Linwood Barclay |
Rating: 5 Stars |
It's a great thriller. This is the first book I've read by Linwood Barclay and now I will read others. Fourteen-year-old Cynthia Bigge woke one morning to find that her entire family had vanished. No note, nothing. 25 years later, she wonders if she might find out what happened, or if it's better to leave it alone. It's a great read and I was hooked immediately.
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| Jean |
The Saddlemaker's Wife by Earlene Fowler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An engrossing story of a young widow trying to discover the history behind her husband's death and the family he claimed was dead.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Amsterdam by Ian McEwen |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This book was very odd. The story begins with the death of Molly, who was the friend of several men and the lover of several others, even though she was married. Two of her previous lovers, Clive and Vernon, attend the funeral and pay their respects. Then they go off and continue living their lives, but they have both been changed as a result of the loss of their mutual friend. I am still trying to figure out what the plot was. Is jealousy the main theme or friendship gone awry? Is it the continuation of life after the death of someone very close? Life that follows a dismal path. I don’t have the answer to these questions. I found the writing to be a bit too wordy. I also found the ideas to be choppy and scattered. This is the first McEwan book I have read and I have to say, I am not impressed.
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| Angela Robbins (fallcolors@ptmc.net) |
The Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the best authors!!
|
| Kay Keller |
Power Play by Joseph Finder |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I've read and thoroughly enjoyed every book that Joseph Finder has written --- until I read POWER PLAY. I kept waiting for it to pick up speed, and it inched forward almost half way through the book when the executives were overtaken by a group of armed "robbers." Overall, I was very disappointed in this book. I did like the character Jake Landry and would like to see him in another novel, but something was missing in this "nonstop, pulse-pounding, high-stakes thriller."
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| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
The Tea House on Mulberry Street by Sharon Owens |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A cute story of all the quirky Irish characters that frequent a tea house. A story of love, love lost, and revenge. A simple story with expected results.
|
| Jean |
Dead Center by David Rosenfeldt |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I really love this author's books. They are fast -moving, quick reads. The author adds a lot of humor to his main character, lawyer Andy Carpenter.
|
| Marsha |
The Pied Piper by Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the best yet of the series featuring Lou Boldt and his Seattle Police Department officers. Children are being kidnapped and the emotional suspense heightens.
|
| L. Hann |
The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very good story. There is so much going on that it makes a great book for discussion. Norah gives birth to twins, but she only raises one of them. What happened to the other child? Will it tear the family apart or bring them closer together?
|
| Juliette |
Vamped by David Sosnowski |
Rating: 5 Stars |
On the surface, it's a humorous vampire novel, but it is also a tender look at what it means to be alive.
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| Christy H. (hawkes@citlink.net) |
The 6th Target by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro |
Rating: 4 Stars |
If you haven't read any of the novels in The Women's Murder Club series yet you are really missing out. Different investigations are intertwined and Lindsey is right in the middle with a little romance and a new partner.
This sixth installment is in typical Patterson style --- a quick and easy thriller that you'll want to read in all one sitting.
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| Bonnie |
This I Believe by Jay Allison and Dan Gediman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a collection of short essays by everyone from presidents, scientists and everyday people on their core beliefs. Some are religious, some are downright funny, but all are thought-provoking. It's the first book I've read in many years that I'm going to start reading over again immediately. I may have missed something and this is too good a book to risk that.
|
| Bonnie |
The Woods by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 4 Stars |
You can always count on Coben to spin a great mystery yarn, with a little twist to keep you guessing. Plus, it's well written.
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| CJ Jones (ajones1021@comcast.net) |
Our Former Lives in Art by Jennifer Davis |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Stellar collection of short stories revolving around the eccentricities of Southern women ---- It's Ms. Davis's 2nd book and a fabulous read that will make you reflect (particularly if you know any Southern women), laugh and even shed a tear or two. In my opinion, the short story is a true art form in literature --- Ms. Davis, though from the Midwest, has obviously spent some time with the "ladies of the south"; she displays their charms, remarkable adaptability with a tongue-in-cheek approach. Tornadoes, a female Elvis impersonator, an aging movie star... this tiny book has it all. A great summertime read that you will want to share with a friend.
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| CJ Jones (ajones1021@comcast.net) |
Interpreter of Maladies by Jhuma Lahiri |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The best collection of short stories I have read in a long time. This first-time book, winner of the Pulitzer Prize, ferries you from immigrants in the US to very real people in her native India. Each tale is spellbinding and without fault; the characters, colors, sounds and emotions jump from page to the reader. Lyrical in nature, this book will put you in the moment. I couldn't put it down. I have already reserved Ms. Lahiri's 2nd book, THE NAMESAKE, which was rated as "the book that everyone in Seattle should read" in last year's book review in the Seattle Times. It is rare that I buy a book since our library system is so good, but I did go right out after reading THE INTERPRETER OF MALADIES and buy a personal copy --- don't miss this book!
|
| Kathy Schoenherr |
The Memory Of Running by Ron McLarty |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Interesting character. I was sorry to see the book end.
|
| Marsha |
Beyond Recognition by Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Det. Lou Boldt and Daphne Matthews of the Seattle Police Dept. are challenged with the problem of finding a high-tech arsonist and rescue a 12-year-old boy who has been abused by his father. Very suspenseful. It's my favorite of the series.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a fantastic story. Jacob Jankowski is a 93-year-old man. When the circus pays a visit to the lot across from the Nursing Home where he lives, it takes him back to when he was employed by a circus during the Depression. And so the book alternates between today and the 1930s. This book grabbed me from the beginning, especially since Jacob attended school at Cornell and caught the circus train on its way to Utica --- places I am very familiar with. The fact that he is Polish is another plus. This story is put together very well. Gruen obviously did her research and I finished this book with some knowledge about Jamaica ginger paralysis, exotic animal behavior and of course, the circus. It is definitely going on my personal list of “classics” and “1001 books to read before you die.” It doesn’t get any better than this.
|
| Crystal Blackburn |
The Ever-Running Man by Marcia Muller |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I just finished reading THE EVER RUNNING MAN by Marcia Muller. It was wonderful, everything a Sharon McCone Mystery is normally guaranteed to offer and much, much more. It offers surprising information about Sharon's long-time love and husband Hy's "missing years."
|
| Danny |
Salvage by Gee Williams |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A page-turner mystery that involves you in each life story as the characters tell them. Whose will be the body drifting at sea? It must be one of the people we meet, but who? And how did the diamond ring get on the skeletal finger?
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| China Duncan (Blondefairy1975@aol.com) |
The God of Animals by Aryn Kyle |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Debut novel, excellent coming-of-age story.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Bet Your Bottom Dollar by Karin Gillespie |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A lovely Southern charm chick-lit book that is the perfect summer diversion. I'll read more of her work.
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| Susan in AZ |
Bones to Ashes by Kathy Reichs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another great page turner from Reichs, featuring forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan. In this installment, she's investigating a cold case she thinks may be connected to the mysterious disappearance of a childhood friend, as well as new bones believed to be those of young women victimized by a serial killer. To complicate matters, she's still juggling Pete (her estranged husband) and Ryan (a cop, who is her on-again-off-again boyfriend), both of whom seem intent on dumping her. Tempe's impulsive sister Harry also shows up to make life more interesting. As Tempe digs deeper into her cases, she begins getting threatening phone calls and e-mails. Our determined heroine will not quit the cases, no matter how dangerous it gets. A good read, although I thought the bad guys were a little generic and the ending a tad predictable.
|
| Summer |
The Black Ice by Michael Connelly |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a great mystery with exciting plots that all intermingled together. Connelly takes his readers through the border towns of Mexico and keeps them guessing who the bad guys are to the very end. This book puts all the TV cop shows to shame!
|
| Peggy |
Time and Again by Jack Finney |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The U.S. Army is running experiments with going back in time, with the premise that different times run parallel. This book is very intriguing, especially in showing the New York City of 1882, and it's rich in vivid descriptions.
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| F Tessa Bartels |
Ali and Nino by Kurban Said |
Rating: 3 Stars |
3.5 stars, actually. A very interesting look at love between a Muslim man and a Christian girl set in 1915. Though written in 1937, and still true today.
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| China Duncan (Blondefairy1975@aol.com) |
The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Excellent detective novel. It reminded of THE MALTESE FALCON.
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| Harriet Stay (hstay@hughes.net) |
Killer Weekend by Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is not a Lt. Lou Boldt thriller, just so you know. I've been reading Pearson for about twenty years, including his work as Wendell McCall and his children's books with Dave Barry (for my granddaughter). Of course, this is a great story. Really. I was glued to it. Sure hope this is the first in a new series. It is set in Idaho, the author's home territory. Since it hit the New York Times Best Seller list, I'm sure you, too, have read it by now.
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| Julie Peterson |
The Abduction by Mark Gimenez |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I "won" this book from bookreporter.com and I'm really glad! It was an exciting, suspenseful novel. I recommend it to anyone who likes Kellerman, Patterson, etc.
|
| Fran |
We are all the same by Jim Wooten |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was mesmerized by this beautifully told tale of a young boy struggling with AIDS in Africa. I was amazed by his courage and the determination of his adoptive mother to help him lead the best quality of life and to make the lives of other patients with HIV a bit better in their community. A must read for all!
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| m d dooley |
A Woman In Charge by Carl Bernstein |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Although the scenarios should be interesting and informative, the plodding style and lack of detail regarding certain key events make the book a "slog." Better editing would have helped. The copious research appears to have been a deterrent.
|
| Kathy |
The Rest of Her Life by Laura Moriarty |
Rating: 4 Stars |
After reading the numerous wonderful reviews, I eagerly awaited this book. The story is very moving --- a young girl accidentally kills another school student in a crosswalk while driving. How this affects her and her family is very interesting. However, while bringing the anguish the family suffers to light, the author fails to bring any conclusion/resolution to this anguish, as the book rambles on and on and on. The last pages seem totally disjointed from the book itself. Frankly, I was disappointed with the way the story ended.
|
| Joanne |
Happiness Sold Separately by Lolly Winston |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I really enjoyed this book! It was a quick read that really dealt with serious issues. Lolly brought you right into the lives of a couple dealing with both infertility and infidelity. She had a way of making you understand the point sof view from all parties involved.
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| Thomas (tomjac0850@charter.net) |
Life of Pi by Yann Martel |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very enjoyable novel about 16-year-old Pi Patel, an Indian boy who is traveling to Canada with his family, along with a large number of zoo animals. The ship sinks and Pi finds himself drifting on the Pacific Ocean, his sole companion being a 450 lb Bengal tiger. It's a story of adventure, courage, determination, faith, and a fair amount of humor.
|
| Jen |
The Quickie by James Patterson & Micheal Ledwidge |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is different from Patterson's usual work, but it's still a page turner. I am already passing it around my office.
|
| Jen |
The Romanov Prophesy by Steve Berry |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you liked THE DA VINCI CODE, you will like this one. Suspense and history are blended into this page turner.
|
| Penny |
Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have always enjoyed novels set in India, and BENEATH A MARBLE SKY is certainly no exception. Having been to the Taj Mahal several times, I was skeptical if an American (and male) author could re-tell the story behind the Taj Mahal's creation. I am happy to say that Mr. Shors accomplished this task, and then some. His novel, which I'd say is enchanting, swept me up within its first few pages. It's is a great, epic tale the likes of which is rarely offered these days. The novel is rich with detail and beauty, and --- I must confess --- it moved me to tears. This is a book that should be much better known than it is. As a former educator, I say with pride that the author must have had some wonderful teachers.
|
| Christy H. |
Come and Get Me by Alyssa Brooks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
COME AND GET ME is a fun and fast-paced story that will grab your attention and have you reading to the end --- all in one sitting. The characters Sadie and Dylan and the interesting plot line will keep you hoping along with all of their travels, sexy romps and escapades. I look forward to reading more from Ms. Brooks.
|
| Ruby D |
Falling Out of Fashion by Karen Yampolsky |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I always thought women were nurturers, but I was wrong. This is about the relationships and manipulations behind the scenes of a fictionalized magazine publishing company, and it is amazing what some women will do to other women to hold a position of power.
The author speaks from experience within the industry and held my interest throughout. A very interesting read.
|
| Tina G |
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Once I started, it was hard to stop reading this book. I really liked how J. K. brought a little something something back from each of the books. It was a great end to the Harry Potter Saga!
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| Marsha |
Invisible Prey by John Sandford |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Beware, all you antique collectors --- sometimes you can fall prey to unscrupulous characters. Lucas Davenport and his cohorts are swept into a surprising couple of interlocked crimes. You'll enjoy this one.
|
| Maureen H |
Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another good read about Stephanie Plum and friends. All her bounty hunter books are enjoyable, light reads.
|
| Peggy |
Lethal City by Jeffrey Ames |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A dismembered body is found in the trunk of a car and a killer is loose in the streets of Dallas. You follow the investigation with the Dallas homicide detectives in charge of the case into the private lives and passion that fuel an urban nightmare.
For those who tend to read the last page of the book first to find out who the killer is ... You will not find the answer there. A great read. It was hard to put down.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Emotional Geology by Linda Gillard |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a story about Rose, a middle-aged woman with a daughter in her early 20s. Rose moves to an island off the coast of Scotland for peace of mind, literally. Suffering from Bipolar disorder, Rose is convinced an isolated life away from friends and family is the perfect remedy to help her forget her past. She throws herself into her work and begins healing. Then she meets Calem, a local school teacher. He is very handsome, and Rose finds herself immediately attracted to him, but Rose’s past still has a hold on her emotions and she can’t seem to let go. Calem is also haunted by a past he would like to forget and believes Rose can help. This book is a Transita book from the UK. Transita is a publishing company geared toward promoting books about middle-age 45+ women. I was pleasantly surprised how enjoyable this story was. I loved the scene set on the Scotland coast. The mountain-climbing angle was very interesting and unique. This book also had its share of haunting twists and turns. It was like an English version of an Anne Rivers Siddons book. I liked this book so much, I am trying to figure out how to spread the word here in the States!
|
| Dustin |
The Widow of the South by Robert Hicks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the first book by the author. Although his specialty doesn't lie within Civil War history, Hicks uses description that makes you feel like you're on the battlefield. It's well balanced by a romance that will keep you guessing until the end.
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| D. L. Gillespie (dgillespie14@gmail.com) |
The 5th Horseman by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A first-rate thriller you won't be able to put down. Patterson again keeps us on the edge of our seats with the Women's Murder Club. Members desperately search for answers to the abnormal deaths occurring determined more than ever to catch a ruthless killer on the prowl.
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| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Slipknot by Linda Greenlaw |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a fabulous book about boats and fishing in Maine, but the characters and story are lacking. A female ex-cop from Florida moves back to childhood home in Maine, but never connects with relatives --- that was a big miss. All the quirky characters were in the town, but they were poorly developed.
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| Lew (mipalew@aol.com) |
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very satisfying end to this wonderful series.
|
| James Simmons |
Derrick Sweat Sings The Blues by George Wilder Jr |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is not a great book, but well thought out. I like the fact that it's an easy and quick read. However, I do think the book is interesting enough to recommend.
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| Shyeyes (dawnymae5@msn.com) |
The Devil's Labyrinth by John Saul |
Rating: 5 Stars |
As always, Saul's book again centers around children. The plot was very interesting --- it centers around an ancient talisman, a Catholic school, and what happens to the students. Very well done, yet again!
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| Metalfiend11 (metalfiend11@yahoo.com) |
Harry Potter And The Deathly Hallows by J. K. Rowling |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another great book to add to the series. I just hate the fact that it ends here. So much is explained in this book and I was very pleased with the ending.
|
| Judy O. |
Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I've enjoyed all of the books in this series. This one was entertaining, but forgettable. There was not much character development but lots of action. Evanovich's books are funny, and it's fun to see the interactions among Stephanie, Ranger, and Joe.
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| Barbara B |
Sister Mine by Tawni O'Dell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Great characters, a lot of heart, humor, and mystery as well.
|
| Marsha |
No Witnesses by Ridley Pearson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another exciting yarn about Seattle Dectective Lou Boldt. This will get you hooked on the series. It's the third of the Lou Boldt novels and I recommend them all to those who love police procedurals.
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| Metalfiend11 (metalfiend11@yahoo.com) |
The Running Man by Richard Bauchman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Wow! This book was nothing like the movie. I love Stephen King but have not read some of his early work. This one is definitely a page turner. Thank god for Stephen King!
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| Sanja Gerskovic |
Anonymous Sedition by Jonathan Michael |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I found this International Thriller reflective of so many serious and contemporary national security issues, i.e., NSA, Iran, media leaks. Good prose, sharp dialogue, and requisite violence all nicely balanced by periodic humor and insightful characters seeking their own paths of personal redemption.
|
| Gale |
Beyond Reach by Karin Slaughter |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Slaughter packs a shocking punch into this taut thriller featuring her favorite Grant County characters. With a great story and a pounding pace, this one is a must read for series fans.
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| DD |
Dirty Martini by J. A. Konrath |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A good addition to the Jack Daniels series, about a cop who has to track down a madman who is spraying poisonous chemicals on food in New York.
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| Kathy E. |
The Pale Blue Eye by Louis Baynard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
There are some parts of the plot that seem dragged out. I love how Baynard has taken historical figures and has written a "what if" about what they were like when they where younger or older. I have enjoyed reading this book and do intend to read his others.
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| MZ Johansen |
Loving Frank by Nancy Horan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Great read! It's easy to start reading and makes you want to keep reading.
|
| Alice |
The Virgin of Small Plains by Nancy Pickard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was an excellent suspenseful novel. I was not sure what to expect as I began to read, but was pleasantly surprised by the characters and plot twists. This was the first Nancy Pickard book I've read, but I will read more.
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| Sharon |
A Fine Balance by Rohston Mistry |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Taking place in Bombay between 1950 and 1984, A FINE BALANCE is about five people struggling to live. It makes you appreciate the life you have and gives you empathy for those people who have struggled for just the simple things of life. This is also for those people who have risen above adversity.
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| Marjorie Clark (marjclark@comcast.net) |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great book about the impact on everyone's life after a school shooting. Every story of this nature usually focuses on the school, location, etc. This focuses on the families of the victims, the school's in crowd and the shooter, who was a victim of bullying since 1st grade and finally attempts to puts an end to it in High School.
|
| Bonnie |
Getting Rid of Matthew by Jane Fallon |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Great fun chick-lit with mistaken identity, snarky humor and a main character you'd really like to know.
|
| Cindy Pino |
Angry Housewives Eating Bon Bons by Lorna Landvik |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book takes you into the lives of a group of people who all belong to the same Book Club. It's one of the most entertaining books I have ever read. It has all the elements I love in a book --- humor, wit and charm. I would recommend it to anyone.
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| Cindy |
Stone Rain by Linwood Barclay |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is the 4th book in Barclay's series, but compared to his first 3 hilarious books --- BAD MOVE, BAD GUYS, and LONE WOLF, this book was a real disappointment. This read moves way to slowly, but I would highly recommend his first three books with 5-star ratings.
|
| Laura |
Dead Right by Brenda Novak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is book 3 of a trilogy. It's very good romantic suspense. The characters had me enthralled from page one of the first book, and Brenda has carried the storyline very well, without letting the reader lose interest. I'm going to definitely look for more books by this author.
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| Teri (tlb46rka@aol.com) |
Julius Winsome by Gerard Donovan |
Rating: 1 Stars |
I tried, I really, really tried to like this book. But frankly, I had a hard time understanding it and I'm still confused by the ending.
Julius lives with his dog in a cabin in the woods. He spends the days reading Shakespeare. His dog get killed by a hunter. Julius randomly starts killing hunters in the woods. The end. This book got great reviews but I just don't see it.
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| Fran |
The Bright Forever by Lee Martin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Through the eyes of each character in this novel, a murder unfolds. The author's writing is beautiful and eloquent, which keeps the pages turning until the end. I enjoyed reading this book.
|
| Kay Keller |
Mister Pip by Lloyd Jones |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is, without a doubt, the best novel I have read this year! It's a short book (256 pages), but it packs a powerful punch. A beautiful story about the power of a good book and a good teacher, this book is unforgettable and is sure to be an award winner.
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| Rita |
Swimming Lessons by Mary Alice Monroe |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Interesting characters, a love triangle, a beach setting, learning about sea turtles, a cute kid, what more could you want in a summer book? You can hear the ocean.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I loved the humor and the fun of this one. Stephanie is helping Ranger who is looking into Dickie's law firm. Dickie is Stephanie's ex-husband. Stephanie pays a visit to Dickie to plant some bugs. When she sees a picture of Joyce, her arch-enemy, she literally chokes him. Later, when Dickie disappears, Steph is the prime suspect. There are the usual tragedies that Plum always seems to find herself in the middle of... fire, explosions and car trouble, to name a few; and of course, the continuing love triangle with Ranger and Morelli. It just seems plot lines are starting to repeat. To me, this series needs a big shake up, or readers are going to start to lose interest.
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| Julie Peterson |
Songs Without Words by Ann Packer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I absolutely loved the book! I think it was even better than THE DIVE FROM CLAUSEN'S PIER. The book has so many great issues for book clubs to discuss. It's a must-read!
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| Lori S. |
Charmed by Nora Roberts |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I have read only a few of Nora Roberts books for some reason, and each of them have been very entertaining. This is the 2nd in her magical Donavon Family Trilogy. Since I have never read the first one, I can tell you that you do not need to and still enjoy the story of the modern day "witches," or Wiccan disciples. But, I warn you, you will want to read the other 2.
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| Lori S. (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J. K. Rowling |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If I could give this TEN stars I would. I agree with Stephen King when he wrote that "No review has done the book justice." I can't say this is the perfect book, but it comes pretty doggone close, if you have been a Pottter fan --- and very few of us aren't. Rowling did what I didn't think was possible --- she managed to wonderfully sum up an amazing series of books in a very satisfying way, tying up the loose ends and mysteries that have been carried on throughout the previous 6 books. Will I miss Harry, Ron and Hermoine and the Hogwarts alumni? Yes, and No. I will miss the anticipation and excitement of losing myself in every new book, but Harry and friends will always be around. When I need a reunion, I will pick up one of the 7 books and get reacquainted. That is, after all the glory of a good book.
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| Diana Sullivan (dpiki@aol.com) |
The Color of Law by Mark Gimenez |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is about a lawyer whose world is turned upside down when he is called by a judge to defend a woman pro bono. This book grabs you. it make you laugh and cry. The characters are so well defined. I'm looking forward to reading his next book.
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| Judith Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Second Sight by Amanda Quick |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book and look forward to WHITE LIES, the second book in this series.
The only thing that has me puzzled is that she begins the series as Amanda Quick and the next book, WHITE LIES, is written under her other name, Jayne Ann Krentz.
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| Karen Barash |
Loving Frank by Nancy Horan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The fact that this novel was based on a true story of a woman who defied convention in the early 20th century makes the story noteworthy. The ending, also true, is unexpected and startling.
|
| Green Dog |
Thunderstruck by Erik Larsen |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Larsen's previous historical nonfiction books, ISAAC'S STORM and THE DEVIL IN THE WHITE CITY, were so absorbing and informative that I was sure I'd love THUNDERSTRUCK. I was wrong. It plods along, trying unsuccessfully to interweave the stories of infamous murderer Crippen and wireless inventor Marconi. Either alone might have made a fascinating book; together, they're disjointed, fragmented and confusing.
|
| Bonnie |
They Poured Fire On Us From The Sky by Deng, Deng and Ajak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A true story written by three of the "Lost Boys of Sudan" and what they went through to reach freedom. A harrowing, awful, and, eventually, breathtaking book of courage and perseverance. A must-read.
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| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
From A Buick 8 by Stephen King |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In my opinion, this is classic King. A mysterious vehicle turns up and is abandoned by its just as mysterious driver. It looks like a classic Buick 8, but then there's something quite not right about it. Things just get weirder and weirder. Like I said, classic King!
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| John Stover (spartanjohnchicub@yahoo.com) |
The Tin Roof Blowdown by James Lee Burke |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I believe this is Burke's best work ever. He chillingly captures the power, destruction and human desecration brought about by Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans in September, 2005.
The events unfold through the eyes of Detective Dave Robicheaux and longtime partner Clete Purcel, whose own personal demons pale in comparison to the havoc wrought by Katrina.
The hypocrisy and incompetence of the federal government --- including but not limited to FEMA and the FBI --- together with the state and local government failures are most troubling. Burke is New Orleans's biggest fan, but even he, through Dave and Clete, wonder how it will recover, if at all.
Powerful, perspicacious novel.
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| Sandy |
The Butterfly House by Marcia Preston |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the best books I have read in a long long time! This story follows the friendship of 2 girls through their teen years and revolves mainly around their mothers. One is an alcoholic and the other studies butterflies. I had to finish it today.
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| Brady (bradylee@myway.com) |
Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is on the bestseller list and deservedly so, as it is a superb true story of self discipline, valor, and a detailed description of the enemy in the Middle East, specfically in Afghanistan. The author goes into great detail of how a Navy Seal is trained and I assure you, it is adventure of a grueling nature and fascinating reading. A real winner here.
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| Geriola (redpaloma02@yahoo.com) |
Love, Stargirl by Jerry Spinelli |
Rating: 5 Stars |
STARGIRL (the first book) is one that every middle school girl should read as it is very special. This book, LOVE, STARGIRL, is the sequel, and every bit as good. It is written in diary format. This book is to be savored, as you grow up along with Stargirl. I am in no hurry to finish this book, yet I find that I cannot put it down. A real keeper! I would also like to listen to the audio version for my second reading.
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| Fran |
The Invisible Circus by Jennifer Egan |
Rating: 3 Stars |
An 18 year old girl sets out on a journey through Europe to trace her sister's life leading up to her suicide, which occurred ten years earlier. Beautifully written and intense.
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| Tommy Nichols |
1st To Die by James Patterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Great start to the series.
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| Geriola (redpaloma02@yahoo.com) |
Behind the Curtain by Peter Abrahams |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This follow-up sequel to DOWN THE RABBIT HOLE is even better than the first book. Full of suspense, action, and surprises, it's good to the very last page.
|
| Phyllis |
Catch A Mate by Gena Showalter |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A sexy novel about trust and learning to love after betrayal. After working at a business of catching cheating mates, employees must see through their issues and learn to commit. There are lots of sex scenes involved in overcoming this fear.
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| Lea Ann in Seattle (baxtergr@msn.com) |
The Camel Bookmobile by Masha Hamilton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A young American woman goes to Kenya to bring books to a basically nomadic people via a camel bookmobile. The reader gets to know her and some of the folks of Kenya in some detail as we follow the aspirations or our librarian, her Kenyan assistant and some of the people of one of the villages served by the bookmobile. A moving, thought-provoking story with a surprise ending that lingers long after the book is closed.
|
| Tiffany |
Skin by Ted Dekker |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The best book I have read all year!
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| Harriet Stay (hstay@hughes.net) |
The Blood Spilt by Asa Larsson - translated by Marlaine Delargy |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I've had a prejudice against reading translated mysteries until a friend recommended the Icelandic procedurals by Arnaldur Indridason. After managing character and town names and loving his books, I sought out mysteries set in Sweden.
What a find. Asa Larsson's first book, SUN STORM, won Sweden's Best First Crime Novel Award plus a Book Sense Notable Book Award. I have now read this and her second, THE BLOOD SPLIT.
Larsson does perform magic. I sat --- after the final page --- and contemplated the story and the relationships of the characters, living for a short time in woollies and snow, even crying.
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| Pat Reid (preid939@gmail.com) |
Beyond Reach by Karin Slaughter |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An excellent book that is not for the faint-hearted. The ending is very much a surprise. This is a Grant County novel.
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| Harriet Stay (hstay@hughes.net) |
Amagansett by Mark Mills |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Set in postwar (1947) Long Island, NY, in a fishing village called Amagansett, the story begins with the finding of the drowned body of Lillian Wallace in rich, upper-class East Hampton. Two people believe she was murdered --- Conrad, the Basque fisherman who found her, and Deputy Tom Hollis.
This is a murder mystery, but so much more. It is written with lyrical language, features in-depth characters, and is rich in historical fiction and a true-to-life setting. I didn't want this mesmerizing book to end.
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Queen of the Oddballs by Hillary Carlip |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Great memoir -- very funny and unique. I love how the author inserts pictures to back up her words. You almost wish the author was older so the book was longer. Quick read.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Killer Instinct by Victoria Laurie |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The 5th in the Psychic Eye mystery series. A great read. I can't wait til the next Abby Cooper novel is released.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
A Vision of Murder by Victoria Laurie |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This great mystery is the 4th book in the Psychic Eye series. Abby Cooper is great!
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Summer by the Sea by Susan Wiggs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a great beach read. It's the story of a woman who, as a grown-up, returns to her hometown, and the relationships she had left behind.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
The Art of Mending by Elizabeth Berg |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A great story that deals with family dynamics and how it impacts people. Very touching and moving.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
The 6th Target by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love the Woman's Murder Club series! This one followed right along with the others in how well it was written and how it sucked you in. I hope there is a 7th book!
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Judge & Jury by James Patterson and Andrew Gross |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This story deals with a mob trial and a member of the jury. It was very suspenseful and kept you on the edge of your seat, wanting more. Patterson did a great job of including that element of surprise.
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| Lynn (mocas@comcast.net) |
It's Okay to Miss the Bed on the First Jump by John O'Hurley |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Hilarious and touching. O'Hurley might only be known to some people as "that game-show host guy" or as "the guy who played J. Peterman on 'Seinfeld', " but he is also an excellent author. Not only is this a must-read for pet-lovers, but it also interesting aspects of the author's life.
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| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
Murder on the Menu by Miranda Bliss |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This second in the Cooking Class mystery series is a great read. If you like Stephanie Plum you'll like this series.
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| Nancy in Wilmington, NC (TangleOaksInfo@aol.com) |
Utopia by Lincoln Child |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I've just started reading Lincoln Child and his collaborations with Douglas Preston. I'm reading them in order after I saw one of your recommendations, and I fond that each is exceptionally well done and contains wonderful nuggets of information that make you glad that you read each one! These are treasures of mystery, masterful language, and skillful storytelling!!
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Peony in Love: A Novel by Lisa See |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very well written historical fiction, and an interesting take on a ghost story.
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| Mary Jacobs (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Bled Dry (Vegas Vampires, Book 3) by Erin McCarthy |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very enjoyable series, but this one was not as good as the first two. Great summer read.
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| Jen Walls (jenwalls74@yahoo.com) |
Beneath a Marble Sky by John Shors |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Some time ago, I saw BENEATH A MARBLE SKY recommended here on Word of Mouth, so whoever made that posting, thank you!
BENEATH A MARBLE SKY is the best book I've read so far in 2007. I simply adored this novel. It's based on the wonderful story beh |
