| Julie Peterson |
The Screwtape Letters by C. S. Lewis |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I have always wanted to read this book, and finally got the chance since my book club is reading it this month. What a fantastic read! I have always appreciated C. S. Lewis, but this book is amazing. If you want to think about your religious beliefs and actions, this will make you examine yourself! Plus, it's highly entertaining!
|
| Judy O. |
The Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a great story about life, medicine, and mysteries in early 1800s Boston. Often, the author would flash ahead to a time in the present that related to this period in history. This plot works well to make an exciting, engaging read.
|
| Julie Peterson |
The Other Side of the Bridge by Mary Lawson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I loved this book! Like CROW LAKE, this is the perfect discussion book! I couldn't put it down!
|
| Julie Peterson |
Still Summer by Jacquelyn Mitchard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I thought this was a pretty good book, although I was very uncomfortable reading it. While the story is definitely a thriller/tragedy, I found the relationships between mother and daughter as well as friends very touching. I think this would make a good book club read!
|
| Marie Lovas |
Cooking Lessons by Nina Romano |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Nina Romano's book COOKING LESSONS delights the senses with every page. Every poem in this collection is a mini-narrative, and the author excels in taking the reader on voyages to thrilling places only dreamed about. Her food and wine descriptions are so tantalizing and mouth-watering that I hope she'll write a cook book next.
|
| Steven Schwindt (stevenschwindt@hotmail.com) |
Mao: The Unknown Story by Jung Chang and Jon Halliday |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Banned in China, it is a great book nevertheless. I live in Shanghai now, so I only read it at home and not in public.
|
| Jayne |
Summer's Child by Luanne Rice |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a lovely story about a mother and daughter, and what happened before the daughter was born. It kept my interest and I will be reading her next book, called SUMMER OF ROSES, which carries on where this book left off.
|
| Allyson Crawley |
Innocent Traitor by Allison Weir |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great book. I thoroughly enjoy the way that Ms Weir puts what Lady Jane Grey might have thought and felt into perspective. Everyone knows what happened to her, but what might it have been like for her? I definitely would recommend this book.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
The Messenger by Danial Silva |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In this suspense novel, Gabrielle Allon is once again on the trail of terrorists who are plotting is to kill the President of the United States and the Pope.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
Double Take by Catherine Coulter |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This installment in Coulter's FBI series is a page turner that keeps you reading well past bedtime...until you finish the book.
|
| Connie |
The Future Scrolls by Fern Michaels |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is an older book by Fern Michaels that I just discovered. It is a very good, quick read. It's not heavy, but just a simple Saturday afternoon book for letting the mind drift away for awhile.
Dani Arnold, a Manhattan editor, goes to the park one day and finds a lost, 10-year-old girl named Maria sitting on a bench. She takes her home with her because Maria has just arrived in the country. Her father did not meet her at the airport, and she has no way of contacting him. That is when the book really gets interesting. It's a mix of mystery, suspense, and romance all rolled into one.
|
| Cathy S. in Northern Virginia |
Dockside by Susan Wiggs |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you like love stories in which the characters have all the real troubles of life, then this writer is for you. This is the third book in her Lakeshore Chronicles series. While the characters and their stories are interwoven, each book can be read as a stand alone. She gives us happy endings, but just like real life, you have to go through a lot of trials and tribulations to get there. And sometimes, you find that the ending you were planning isn't always the one you get.
The main couple in this book are Nina Romano and Greg Bellamy. Together (and sometimes against each other), they are committed to restoring an old lakeside inn to its former glory. During the process, we catch up on other characters from the former books and meet new ones who will probably be the focus of future efforts from Ms. Wiggs. Her books are easy reads, perfect summer reading for entertainment, when all television has to offer are reruns and "reality" shows. Good escapist literature!
|
| Bonnie |
The Road by Cormac McCarthy |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Spare, elegant writing informs this novel of a father and son walking the earth after the end of the world. Their relationship and their terrors make up the heart of this amazing story.
|
| Bonnie |
The Dark by John McGahern |
Rating: 2 Stars |
A depressing novel set in Ireland in the 1950s, or thereabouts. If child abuse is your cup of tea, read on.
|
| Jayne |
The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafón |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a wonderful read. It was about a young boy and how his father takes him to The Cemetery of lost books. The characters were very interesting and I could not put it down. I just wish the author would write something else. I can't wait!
|
| Mary |
Dark Celebration: A Carpathian Reunion by Christine Feehan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was an excellent read, carrying on the Dark series tradition of really hot men and incredible women. You get to catch up with all your favorites from previous books and pick up on leads for books to come. I highly recommend this one of you are a committed Feehan fan.
|
| Ruth |
Train from Marietta by Dorothy Garlock |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An enjoyable historical novel with a touch of suspense.
|
| Ruth |
10-Minute Home Improvement by Skye Alexander |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Lots of quick and easy tips for homeowners. A must-read before tackling home renovations.
|
| Ruth |
String of Pearls by JoAnna M. Lund and Barbara Alpert |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book of inspiration was written by the creator of the Healthy Exchanges system of weight control. I have recommended her cookbooks to many people.
|
| Ruth |
Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'd been wanting to read this book and was happy when it became one of my book club selections. It's the true story of one man who is making a difference by building schools for the children of Pakistan and Afghanistan.
|
| Bonnie |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A novel set in Nazi Germany that is reminiscent of THE DIARY OF ANNE FRANK. It's well written and it keeps your interest.
|
| Christy H. |
Blood Red by Heather Graham |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a terrific vampire romance novel set in post-Katrina New Orleans. There were lots of twists and turns, danger and suspense.
I didn't realize until after I had started this book that several of the characters are from previous books --- I will be definitely be going back and reading their stories now.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
A Thread of Grace by Mary Doria Russell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A THREAD OF GRACE takes look at the world of Hitler and World War II, and focuses on courage, caring and love amid the horror of war. It serves as a reminder that Hitler's revenge against the Jews really happened. This story is set in Italy and describes the Italians attempted to fool the Nazis.
|
| Fran |
When the Bough Breaks by Jonathan Kellerman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I gave this four stars since the middle was a bit slow. Overall, it was a good, suspenseful mystery but not one of this author's best.
|
| Judith Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Darkly Dreaming Dexter by Jeff Lindsay |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It's definitely different and surprisingly funny. I can see why this would be a TV hit as well.
|
| Lorna |
The Woods by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you haven't read any of this author's books you should try this one. This story has a few different plots going on but you won't lose interest. The ending will blow you away.
|
| Thomas |
Dear John by Nicholas Sparks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
John Tyree, on leave from the Army, meets beautiful Savannah Curtis in North Carolina. They quickly fall in love, though they have a turbulent relationship. Savannah helps John mend his relationship with his father, who has a rare form of autism that has always prevented him from showing John any real form of love. This is a very good story of love, loss, and true sacrifice.
|
| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A mesmerizing book about the life of women in Afghanistan beginning about 30 years ago. I usually read mystery and intrigue novels, but read this as a book group choice. I picked it up and was totally taken in from the first page to the last.
|
| Betty Jo (harrises@bayou.com) |
My Mother the Cheerleader by Robert Sharonow |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An excellent Young Adult book that takes a fictional look at the integration of William Frantz Elementary School in the Ninth Ward of New Orleans, told through the eyes of a thirteen-year-old girl who has been taken out of public school by her mother for one year. Her mother is one of the "cheerleaders" who confronts six-year-old Ruby Bridges each morning and evening when she goes to school. This group of women heckled the child, threw urine on her, and told her her food was poisoned. This is a powerful book to be shared by adults and their teenage children.
|
| Robin Lensing |
Swim to Me by Betsy Carter |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a sweet story about a young girl from New York who longs to be a "mermaid" in the water show at Weeki Wachee springs in Florida. This story has some interesting characters, and most of all, an unusual setting! Reading about how the mermaids do their show is the really fascinating part of the story.
|
| LouBabe (LouBabe@juno.com) |
Edge of Evil by J. A. Jance |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Boy, I hate discovering new authors I like. I already have hundreds of books waiting to be read, and now I have to buy more :)
Alison Reynolds is a high-profile TV eporter who loses her job and, in the process, learns who her real friends are (and aren't) --- including her husband.
In order to reach her adoring public, say her goodbyes and tell them her side of the story, she sets up a web site/blog, which becomes extremely popular. It was fun to read the blog entries, which made for easier reading.
Ali survives a couple of murder attempts and discovers a new life along the way. After finishing it, I visited the authors web site and was pleased to learn that a sequel to this book will be out soon. In fact, I'm wondering if it's the start of an Alison Reynolds series (crossing my fingers).
Oh, and a real plus --- no sex, no disgusting language, not even a romance. How refreshing is that! I will be buying more of Jance's books.
|
| LouBabe |
Celebration by Fern Michaels |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is not my favorite Fern Michaels book, but it's good enough to merit 5 stars. It's the story of a military wife whose husband ruled his family "by the book." I found it to be depressing in many instances. I don't want to give any more of the story away, but there were some really enriching moments, too, and it's worth your time to read.
|
| kt |
Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The incredible story of how one person can and does make a difference. In an area where Americans are despised, this one is winning the hearts and minds of the local populace by building schools where none exist. He is proving to the people that all Americans are not monsters and that the Taliban is not the only answer. Our government could take a lesson in how to win over a country --- learn their ways, respect their customs and give them the tools they need to better their lives.
|
| Mary Q. (qmquack@aol.com) |
If You Lived Here by Dana Sachs |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was highly recommended by a friend who loved it, and I'm loving it too!
|
| Linda Scott (scott2@einetwork.net) |
The King of Methlehem by Mark Lindquist |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The mystery is set in Los Angeles and deals with the meth labs and users there. This is something I knew nothing about, so it was a real eye-opener to me. Good action and characters!
|
| Linda Scott (scott2@einetwork.net) |
Red Hook by Reggie Nadelson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This mystery/thriller is set in the Russian section of New York City, so you get to learn about how the people there live and work. The mystery itself is good, but the setting and characters make it very good.
|
| Mary Ann Wendel |
The Book of Air and Shadows by Michael Gruber |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very interesting book about a lost Shakespere manuscript and the lengths people go to keep the mystery hidden. It gave a good look at the used book world and an interesting tour through New York. The main and side characters all contributed to a well-written novel.
|
| Louise Pledge |
Don't Look Now by Linda Lael Miller |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I almost put this book down without finishing --- it was cumbersome to get into. There were too many characters in the first chapter or so, and it was hard to keep track of who was whom or what their histories were. I decided this must be a sequel to another book, but I've never found another one listed.
However, I was glad I persevered because I did enjoy it. The story involves a female defense attorney who almost goes through all of her nine lives, along the way, helping her to place her priorities and discover the value system she should have had all along.
|
| Dawnymae (dawnymae5@msn .com) |
And If I Die by John Anderson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Author has started this third book in a trilogy with lots of suspense and intrigue. It's very fast paced and well worth your time.
|
| janflora |
The Lambs of London by Peter Ackroyd |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An interesting fictional account of an historic case of fraud. In the 19th century, a lost Shakespeare play was supposedly found. It was proved false, but has still remained a big story in the Shakespearean world. Ackroyd wrote a biography of Shakespeare and did a lot of research on this event. I have to admit that the story of the fraud is more interesting than the fictional story he's created, but his writing is nearly flawless.
|
| Metalfiend11 in TX (metalfiend11@yahoo.com) |
People Of The Abyss by Jack London |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a pretty interesting book. A little repetitive, at times, but very informative. Jack London reveals his experiences when he chooses to live on the East End of London in 1902. I had no idea people could have lived like this. I think it makes our homeless look wealthy. I found it online at Google.
|
| Sandy Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com) |
These High, Green Hills by Jan Karon |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I love Ms. Karon's books! They're so funny and inspiring, and the characters are hilarious. I'm reading the whole series, and am anxious to read her latest about Father Tim's earlier days before Mitford.
|
| Sandy Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com) |
Stilllife with Chickens by Catherine Goldhammer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another interesting memoir! A funny, beautiful, and sometimes hectic view of starting over after a divorce. It involves renovating a somewhat dilapidated cottage by the sea, and raising chickens without knowing anything about it. I now know more about chickens than I did, and I'm a farm gal! A fun read!
|
| Sandy Greathouse (Muzzley56@aol.com) |
Dishing by Liz Smith |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I enjoyed this memoir...lots of interesting "dish" on popular film stars as well as some really tasty recipes.
|
| Jen Mulsow |
And The Band Played On by Randy Shiltz |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It was very good. I never realized how much I didn't know about the first few years of the AIDS epidemic.
|
| Irene Grigas (irenej7@netzero.com) |
North River by Peter Hamill |
Rating: 5 Stars |
NORTH RIVER was one of the best audio books that I have listened to. It has stayed in my head for weeks. It takes place in 1930s Brooklyn, New York. The characters are well defined and the story flows so wonderfully that I didn't want the book to end. I still think of Rosa and Dr. Delaney and all the characters. The person reading --- or I should say acting --- did a great job as he went from a 3-year-old voice to that of a woman' s, imitations of gangsters, as well as old men and young women. Truly remarkable. I can't remember the actor's name (shame on me) as I brought the CD back to the library. I can't say enough about this audio book. Also, hooray to Pete Hamill who wrote the book.
|
| Kathy V. |
The Hindi-Bindi Club by Monica Pradhan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read this after winning an author chat with Ms. Pradhan. I was immediately taken in by the beautiful cover. This wonderful hidden jewel of a book is reminiscent of THE JOY LUCK CLUB. Its mother/daughter relationships ring true and warm your heart.
Tonight is our author chat and I can't wait to tell Ms. Pradhan how this novel touched me. I'm already awaiting her next book!
|
| Sonya (sonyalovesbooks@yahoo.com) |
Annabelle's Courtship by Lucy Monroe |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Lucy Monroe packs a whole lot of romance in ANNABELLE'S COURTSHIP. Ms. Monroe keeps the readers hooked with her unique and memorable characters and the unexpected twists as the story flows. The book will have the readers crying and screaming at the characters as they pull at your heartstrings. Annabelle and Ian's love story is truly remarkable, and will have readers coming back for more. I loved Annabelle's spirit and will, and her patience to deal with her brother and Ian. Ian is her perfect match and they make an explosive couple. I can not wait to see what she will come up with next.
|
| Judy O. |
Justice Denied by J.A. Jance |
Rating: 4 Stars |
During the investigation of the murder of LaShawn Tompkins, J. P. Beaumont discovers clues that link his murder with a pattern of sex-offender murders all around the country. He and his partner, Mel Soames, are racing to find answers. This was a good police procedural, but I prefer this author's Joanna Brady series, which is set in Arizona.
|
| Sandy |
Black Ice by Linda Hall |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I have found a new author! This one grabs you from the first page. Lenore Featherjohn found a girl, frozen against a snowbank behind Lenore's bed and breakfast. Some say she is a ghost, others say she's an angel. BLACK ICE is loaded with suspense, tension, and characters that leap from the pages.
|
| Rose in CT |
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The title makes you think twice about reading it, but do take the leap. It is a wonderful journey that is so well written. Now I understand why it has been on top of the bestseller lists. I highly recommend it to all.
|
| Marjorie Clark (marjclark@comcast.net) |
New England White by Stephen L. Carter |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book is kind of a slow, but you continue because there is always something or someone that makes you curious to see what will happen next. His previous book, THE EMPEROR OF OCEAN PARK, was great.
|
| Mary Teevan (WILSGRNDMA@AOL.COM) |
The Quickie by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I couldn't put this book down and read it in one day.
|
| Marcia Cook |
Talking to the Ground by Douglas Preston |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Douglas and his family travel on horseback through parts of the Navajo Reservation. This is a wonderful and moving account of their journey and of the history of the Navajo people.
|
| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
Eva's Story by Eva Schloss |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Excellent true story of Eva Schloss, stepsister to Ann Frank, and her time in the concentration camp.
From secret hiding places to the horrific realm of Nazi concentration camps, this is the story of how one survived. It's a testament of human power and will to survive under the most horrendous conditions.
|
| Julie Towson |
Walt Disney the Triumph of American Imagination by Neal Gabler |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you like biographies, this is the book for you. It is a very detailed, fascinating book on the life of Walt Disney. It's a big read --- over 600 pages --- but really worth it.
|
| Lisa Garrett |
Hill Towns by Anne Rivers Siddons |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Siddons probes the meaning of relationships with an Italian setting. By the time you finish the book, you actually feel as if you have traveled through the hill towns and established rapport with each character.
|
| Rita Wright |
The Burnt House by Faye Kellerman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Decker and Rina are back! This is an absorbing mystery connected to a terrifying event. The characters are memorable and you cannot put the book down. Highly recommended.
|
| ET Burr |
The Lost: A Serach for Six of Six Million by Daniel Mendelsohn |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is one of the most riveting memoirs I have read in recent memory. It is Mendelsohn's account of his attempt to find out the details of what happened to the family of his grandfather's brother under the Nazi regime in Galacia. It brings that terrible history of the Holocaust down to the immediate and personal. Mensolsohn is a writer of skill, depth and beauty, and he weaves his family's history into a tale that is unforgettable.
|
| Patty Shogren (P12A11S49@AOL.COM) |
Bel Canto by Ann Patchett |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful read I won't forget! I'm in love with the characters.
|
| Carol H. |
Between, Georgia by Joshilyn Jackson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A beautiful story about what truly makes up a family.
|
| Gwen |
Shantaran by Gregory David Roberts |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an incredibly written novel about an escaped convict from New Zealand who ends up in New Deli, India. It is a book full of suspense, crime and spirituality. It also gives you fabulous insight into the people of India and their customs.
|
| Kathy C. |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a fantastic read. I LOVED the fact that the narrator of the book was "Death." It was such a novel spin. The characters were engrossing and I came to love and care about them.
The story takes place in World War II Germany and I was so glad I chose to read it with the TV show "The War" starting at the same time. Watching "The War" gave me real visual images of what I was reading. I also like the fact that events were also seen through the eyes of the main character, a displaced young German girl named Liesel.
The one thing I really appreciated was that the end of the book really gave closure to the characters' stories.
|
| Marsha |
The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This beautifully written tale is an homage to the one-room schoolhouse days of 1910. How a motherless family of three children and a hard-working farming husband are impacted by the arrival of a housekeeper and her brother creates an unforgettable story.
|
| Vickie |
You've Been Warned by James Patterson and Harold Roughan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Strange! Fascinating! Thought provoking and weird are some of the words to describe this latest thriller. Set in NYC with the main character who's a nanny but wants to be a professional photographer, the whole book leaves you guessing until the end. And then, you still may not know what really happened! This is a "stay up all night until you finish it" kind of book!
|
| mcdonn |
Some Danger Involved by Will Thomas |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the first of a series of historical mysteries set in Victorian London. Cyrus Barker, an inquiry agent, is seeking to hire an apprentice. Thomas Llewelyn, a man who has studied at Oxford and served time in prison, finds to his amazement and maybe his endangerment, that he has the job. This book is full of plots and twists, humor and pathos. Mr. Barker's and Mr. LLewelyn's backgrounds are just as much a mystery as the crucification of a young man in the Jewish ghetto of London. Each character is unique in this novel and I would definitely enjoy reading the next books in the series.
|
| Marilyn |
Bones and Ashes by Kathy Reichs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another good forensic anthropology novel from Reichs. This was particularly interesting as I have been to the Maritime Provinces where part of the locale is set.
|
| Norine Gremse (nono@toast.net) |
Exile by Richard North Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is currently in paperback. It really opened my mind to the existing conflict among Palestine/Isreal/United States. I just didn't know how long the history was, or why the Middle Eastern countries constantly inculcate their children to believe in religion and hatred. It must be a horrible way to live.
The book is very well written o the point that I hated having to stop for necessary "things" --- bathroom, sleeping, going out, living! I was so taken with the story that I had to call my BF Cathy to discuss what I'd learned. She decided to get into the Muslim/Jewish history and got the book after our conversation. I can't praise the story sufficiently. The story line is fantastic, the characters were very well developed and I had a very gratifying read. Give it a try. It's worth your time.
|
| Mary Angela Young |
You've Been Warned by James Patterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is a little strange, but very good just the same. Sometimes it was hard to follow.
|
| Sherrie Maner |
A fistful Of Charms by Kim Harrison |
Rating: 3 Stars |
If you like paranormal books, then this one has everything. Vampires and pixies, witches and werewolves all co-exist in an alternate US. It's a fun read, but sometimes it's a little too much over the top.
|
| Pamela Schofield |
Peony In Love by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another perfect score for Lisa See! A beautifully written novel about love, family, happiness and sadness that takes place in seventeenth century China. The reader will love the history of that era and the tale of an afterlife, where much is learned from ancestral ghosts. Peony is a character the reader will fall in love and identify with. She is a young woman who falls in love and envisions her life, but many obstacles are put in her path. She is a very unforgettable character.
|
| Carol G |
Down River by John Hart |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A well-written book that managed to get my attention, even though I was somewhat turned off at the beginning. The overall impression I received was of sadness --- the author does an excellent job of showing how secrets can devastate when they finally are exposed.
|
| Lorie Brown from Deerfield, IL |
The Emperor's Children by Claire Messud |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The critics and I really enjoyed this book, though most readers didn't. Give it a try, it is worth reading. Once you get used to Ms. Messud's writing style and realize that even if you don't understand some of the words she uses, you'll still understand the story, you should enjoy spending March through November of 2001 with some New Yorkers. You don't want them for best friends, or even to meet for coffee, but their story is an interesting one. Also, I believe that Ms. Messud got the true feel of New Yorkers and New York City during the weeks surrounding 9/11. I was there so I 'm able to speak from firsthand knowledge and I really related to her words. It won't be the best book you will read this year, but your year will be enhanced by reading THE EMPEROR'S CHILDREN.
|
| Robert Michlowski |
Marked Man by William Lashner |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Interesting and fast paced.
|
| D. Garner |
Tam Lin by Pamela Dean |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An oldie, but a goodie. As I am currently deeply immersed in a graduate school class, this light trip into the world of fantasy at the end of a study session is perfect. Young Janice starts her freshman year of college at a university with strange traditions and a few ghosts. This is based on the Scottish legend of Tam Lin, and is part of the Fairy Tale series.
|
| Laura Skinner (Trudy013@aol.com) |
Promise Me by Harlan Coben |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The wry humor of Coben's character, Myron Bolitar, is excellent. You won't believe the ending.
|
| Debra Guyette (Debby236@comcast.net) |
Lover Unbound by J. R. Ward |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is part of a series about a secret Brotherhood that works to save the world from supernatural entities. I love these stories and this one is no exception.
|
| Sandy |
The Rabbit Factory by Marshall Karp |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a very funny page turner about two LAPD cops, Mike Lomax and his partner Terry Biggs, who are smart and drop-dead funny.
Mike's wife, Joanie, died of cancer six months ago. She left letters, which he opens on the anniversary of her death. His father also loved her, but wants Mike to get on with his life. Terry Biggs met his wife when she was the paramedic called when he was an officer down. Very funny!
The setting is "Familyland," a Disneyland look-alike. The characters: Rambunctious Rabbit, Slaphappy Puppy, McGreedy the Moose, and others are now family favorites. But, someone is killing people associated with Familyland. They work hard and uncover a conspiracy, finding a big surprise at the end of the search.
It is a long book but it has large print and is so funny you can't stop reading.
|
| Albert Sears |
The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This novel is long but quite engrossing. I'm reading it for the second time, and it's even better. It's a vampire narrative with substance; the connection between books and vampires is thought provoking. It's been a bestseller for a reason.
|
| Tamara Ring |
The Saturday Wife by Naomi Ragen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Sometimes scathing, sometimes empathetic, but always riveting. If you've ever had trouble reconciling religion's altruistic spirituality with evidence of rampant hypocrisy, you will be engrossed by Naomi Ragen's portrait of an Orthodox rabbi's wife struggling with these issues.
|
| Ann |
The Suspect by John Lescroart |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very enjoyable "whodunit" mystery. I couldn't put it down.
|
| Yvonne M. |
Lone Survivor by Marcus Luttrell with Patrick Robinson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
While the first half of the book gives a pretty detailed description of the training and stamina required to become one of the few selected to become a Navy Seal, it is the rest of the book that is intense, heartbreaking and head shaking. It is the story of Marcus Luttrell and his fellow Seals and how they were ambushed and overtaken on an Afghanistan mountain range while on a mission. Luttrell is the only survivor of this team. While it wasn't said in so many words amongst the team, they pretty much figured that it was a doomed mission because of the lack of suitable cover and the inability to reach HQ by radio. This is a very informative and interesting read, and I think that the world and especially the media forget or ignore the moral dilemma that all of our armed forces face on a daily basis in current conditions.
|
| Marie |
Run by Ann Patchet |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I was a little disappointed with this one, after having read BEL CANTO a few years ago.
|
| Coral Harrison |
Power Play by Joseph Finder |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A good suspense story that is well written and hard to lay down. It's a story of deceitful officers in an aerospace company. If you like non-stop high stakes thrillers you will really like this.
|
| Sharon Lumb (swl44th@hotmail.com) |
Wild Swans:Three Daughters of China by Jung Chang |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A beautifully written book of a grandmother, mother and daughter who grow up in China from the time of the Emperor to Mao. The description of ordinary life during Mao's reign is especially compelling. This is the life of three ordinary women who lived in extraordinary changing times.
|
| Coral Harrison |
Burnt House by Faye Kellerman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a Decker and Lazarus book and is probably the best in this series. If you like mysteries, you would like this even if you have not read any of the others by this author.
|
| Shirley Jones |
Firefly Beach by Luanne Rice |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Some books are just start off slowly, and this is one of them. I don't recall reading this author before and this is not a new release, but I think once I can get into it, it will be and interesting book.
|
| Cheryl |
Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn |
Rating: 2 Stars |
The book kept me interested, but the content and conclusion were a bit twisted for me. Even though the book deals with some very disturbing social phenomena, I couldn't put it down because I wanted to see what happened.
|
| Bonnie Levy |
The Quickie by James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. it was a page turner and had a lot of surprises! I read it in one day!!
|
| Debi |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is fascinating! It is a story about a young girl in Nazi Germany who discovers that she loved to read. Unfortunately, Hitler has ordered book burnings, so she has to resort to stealing. What makes it so intriguing is the fact that the narrator is Death! Death is not portrayed as good or evil, but he is personified as being compassionate. The literary style is different --- not run of the mill! Excellent!
|
| Sharon Haas |
Invasive Procedures by Orson Scott Card & Aaron Johnston |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Known for his science fiction and fantasy books, Card takes us into the near future and a frightening combo of technology and medicine.
|
| Toni Savchuck (tonisandlin@aol.com) |
The Island by Victoria Hislop |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This debut novel starts as a journey for a young woman to Greece to learn about her mother's life, and becomes the story of her mother's ancestors and the history of an island that lepers moved to when they started showing symptoms. It is a beautiful tale of love, faith and redemption. A must read!
|
| Brenda Tucker (rango1971@yahoo.com) |
Cat Breaking Free by Shirley Rousseau Murphy |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a mystery about three cats who talk like humans. They are able to help foil several crimes in the town where they live. It's a very nice story. I loved it when one kitty wanted his own cell phone.
|
| Gail Spitzer |
The Pact by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A good story about a teenage couple making a pact to commit suicide together, and how this plays out.
|
| Gail Spitzer |
Warm Springs by Susan Richardson Shreve |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An interesting book about the author's bout with polio as a child, and the time she spent in treatment in Warm Springs, Georgia.
|
| Ann Otto |
Without A Map: A Memoir by Meredith Hall |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the most moving and beautifully written memoirs I've read.
|
| Lew (mipalew@aol.com) |
The General's Daughter by Nelson DeMille |
Rating: 4 Stars |
After seeing the movie twice, I was still confused about the plot. However, reading the book makes it clear. A great read.
|
| Lew (mipalew@aol.com) |
The Lincoln Lawyer by Michael Connelly |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A non-Harry Bosch thriller that keeps you guessing all the way through. Highly recommended.
|
| Cheryl (wimer52@zoominternet.net) |
The Skystone by Jack Whyte |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this historical Fiction by a Cambridge Scholar. This is the beginning of a series on Arthur, and includes a lot of Roman history --- sometimes too much.
|
| Lew (mipalew@aol.com) |
The Overlook by Michael Connelly |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another Harry Bosch mystery that's somewhat shorter than most at about 250 pages. It provides a new twist on terrorism.
|
| Clarissa Higdon (higdonclarissa@yahoo.com) |
Eye of the Crow by Shane Peacock |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is actually a young adult novel, but it is brilliant. It delves into young Sherlock Holmes's life and shows a side of him we never see. A must read.
|
| Marcia Vola |
The Space Between by Kali VanBaale |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a thought-provoking book about a tragic school shooting and the resulting grief that surrounds not only the the family of the shooter, but also the victims' survivors. The author gives you insight into both sides and empathiy with both. As a parent, this book was hard to put down.
|
| Marie |
The Septembers of Shiraz by Dalia Sofer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
It's about an Iranian family in the aftermath of the revolution. Sofer has created a beautiful, poignant and tragic portrait of a family in turmoil. This great read is highly recommended.
|
| Jay French |
Terrorist by John Updike |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Great writing, but I'm not so sure about the story, though. The ending didn't feel right.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
The Buenos Aires Broken Hearts Club by Jessica Morrison |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A quick mindless read, but still enjoyable. It's a good way to waste a few hours :)
|
| Joan |
The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This isn't quite what I thought it would be. I expected more of a novel. However, it was a very interesting book about the time period during World War II, which has always fascinated me. The author gives insight into how the Polish Christian zookeepers coped with the loss of many of their animals and with hiding Jews in their home and in the zoo cages. It also gives insight into the Nazi savagery. I would recommend this book to anyone interested in this time period.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Slacker Girl by Alexandra Koslow |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Cute story --- typical NYC chick lit. I really enjoyed the chapter titles, which were done in a clever manner.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Dead Ex by Harley Jane Kozak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the better mystery books I have read this year, Janet Evanovich in Hollywood!
|
| Jerry Johnson (jerry_johnson@bellsouth.net) |
The Navigator by Clive Cussler |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another excellent work by the master of suspense, mixing historical fact with fiction. It's a great read for the beach, or just sitting by the pool with an adult beverage.
|
| Karen Barash |
Case Histories by Kate Atkinson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The author weaves three crimes together in a unique mystery novel.
|
| Noreen Brown |
You've Been Warned by James Patterson & Howard Roughan |
Rating: 1 Stars |
What a let down! I have read every single James Patterson book and have never been disappointed. But, this story is asinine, boring, stupid...
Nothing rang true. I kept reading and waiting for something to happen, to grab me, but nothing did.
|
| Sherri |
The Faraday Girls by Monica McInerney |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a great story of 5 sisters growing up with an inventor dad and a dead mom who is always "lurking" in the background.
|
| Marie |
All Aunt Hagar's Children: Stories by Edward P. Jones |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An exquisite collection of short stories. It’s not hard to see why this author has won all kinds of awards. His stories and characters are nothing short of brilliant. The setting for this collection is Washington D.C. However, the characters are ordinary citizens, rather than the politicians we hear too much about.
|
| Connie |
It Ain't All About the Cookin by Paula Deen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a great book about Paula's life. She has definitely had some hard times. It also has some very good recipes in it.
|
| Gracie |
Sleeping With Schubert by Bonnie Marson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An incredible novel in which a contemporary woman who finds herself invaded by Franz Schubert's spirit. I felt totally involved in this thrilling, funny, emotional story about the strange union of a genius composer and a New York lawyer is unforgettable.
|
| Jackie Gay |
Pieces Of My Sister's Life by Elizabeth Joy Arnold |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have an affinity for first novels and the opinion that some authors do their most passionate, insightful, and beautiful work on them.
PIECES OF MY SISTER'S LIFE is a wonderful example of this. The characters are just ordinary people with terrible problems, and there are no ridiculously easy solutions. Kerry and Eve are identical twins who are so very different, and therein lies the story. For a trip into another family, town, and island's life: this is your ticket.
|
| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
Dreams from My Father by Barack Obama |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was absolutely one of the best memoirs I have read. I was very impressed with Mr. Obama's openness about his interracial family, problems that occurred and how he was able to come to peace with that. He spent many years growing up in Kenya and Indonesia, which I think makes him the person he is today. It is a good example of all of those who don't belong to one world or the other and are lost.
|
| Joan |
The Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Julia Hamill has bought an older home in rural Massachusetts, and after digging for a flower garden, has discovered some bones. She soon sets out to learn about the family that lived in the house in the 1800s. The story takes us from present to past and we learn of family ties, secrets, and murder. This is a good read with plenty of surprises, and is definitely one of Gerritsen's best.
|
| Jan Ross |
Missing Witness by Gordon Campbell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
MISSING WITNESS is a great book with an underlying moral theme involving legal ethics. Even though it often delved rather deeply into the letter of the law, it was never boring. The book was a fascinating and enjoyable legal thriller.
|
| Marsha |
Missing Witness by Gordon Campbell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Think of a mixture of the TV show "Dallas", "The Practice" or "Boston Legal" and throw in a little of Grisham courtroom procedures and you have a wild ride through two trials involving a young and inexperienced lawyer. What fun!
|
| Fran |
To Have and To Hold by Jane Green |
Rating: 4 Stars |
4 stars for a chick lit book. This is a cute story about a woman who becomes her husband's doormat and has to find herself again. I loved the way the main character evolves in this light, fluffy read.
|
| Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com) |
The Italian Lover by Robert Hellenga |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Robert Hellenga,s SIXTEEN PLEASURES is my all-time favorite, but his sequel, THE ITALIAN LOVER is a fun read for all of us art majors, avid fictional history buffs and fans of Florence, Italy!
|
| Toni Giarnese |
The Whole World Over by Julia Glass |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A "delicious" story full of connected characters and an old friend, Fenno, from Glass's previous book THREE JUNES. Events cross from reality to fiction and back, and a national tragedy ties up the package. The author's own life, marked by divorce, cancer, suicide and 9/11, informs the tale and resonates with readers. THE WHOLE WORLD OVER is a book about love, longing and understanding.
|
| Gale |
You've Been Warned by James Patterson & Howard Roughan |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is an enjoyable and quick read. The heroine, photographer/nanny Kristin Burns, has a some terrifying dreams that connect to things from her past and make her question her future. If you're a heavy-duty fan of Patterson's Alex Cross or Women's Murder Club series, temper your expectations --- YOU'VE BEEN WARNED is Patterson-lite.
|
| Connie |
Chill of Fear by Kay Hooper |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I was disappointed in this book. I feel it is too drawn out and just drags on.
|
| Connie |
Code Name Bikini by Christina Skye |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I have enjoyed all of Christina's books. This is a quick weekend read. It has some suspense and some romance.
|
| Fran Custer (fcuster@nc.rr.com) |
The Trouble With Tulip by Mindy Starns Clark |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first installment in a three-part series called The Smart Chick Mysteries. It's fun, funny, full of "helpful hints" and mystery. You don't know "whodunit" until the end! Excellent, a great read!!
|
| Thomas |
Judge & Jury by James Patterson & Andrew Gross |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a story about single mother, Andie DeGrasse, who finds herself on a jury in the trial of Mafia boss Dom Cavello. Everyone knows that Cavello is very bad news, which proves true when he arranges for the bus carrying the jurors to be blown up, killing everyone except Andie. Also killed is her 10-year-old son. When Cavello escapes from custody, Andie and FBI agent Nick Pellisante, who lost two friends to Cavello's violence, team up to hunt down the killer. Though it sounds a bit far-fetched in places, this was a pretty good read.
|
| Corinna |
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I finished this book last week and I thought that it was extraordinary! I wrote a small review about it last Word of Mouth b/c I could not wait to talk about it. That was before I finished it and I had given it 4 stars. I now want to change that to 5. I think that my favorite part of the book was the Author's Note. She explained what made her write the book and how she researched it. I found it to be so interesting. I was so happy to see that b/c I actually did have several questions regarding the factuality of the stories. And like I said before, I highly recommend this book to anyone and everyone!
|
| Julie |
The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is such a fantastic story. It's A very realistic look at one man's condition and the difficulties it can cause. A beautiful portrait of how, in some ways, love really can conquer all.
|
| Julie |
Dead Sexy by Tate Hallaway |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very interesting. For me, "Chick lit" has to be entertaining and this one is definitely that. I had never read anything else by this author, but I did enjoy this one.
|
| M. Davis (marlys366@aol.com) |
Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This story --- told from the perspective of a 13-year-old girl --- is set in Colorado during World War II and revolves around the residents of Ellis, CO and those of the Tallgrass internment camp that holds several hundred Japanese Americans. It is especially interesting, given that I am reading (acutally listening on audio CD) this at the same time that Ken Burns's documentary "The War" is airing on public television. "The War" also contains footage and commentary on the internment camps.
|
| M. Davis (marlys366@aol.com) |
Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An eye-opening account, by an investigative reporter, of the lengths people will go to in order to seek out a better life. Enrique's mother left him in Honduras when he was 5, and came to the United States to look for work that would pay enough so that she could feed, clothe and educate Enrique his sister. By the time he turned 17, Enrique missed his mother so much that he set out alone to come to the U.S. to find her.
|
| Lori S. (sunbug5505@yahoo.com) |
Dead Girls Are Easy by Terri Garey |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A near death experience, a potential hot romance with her ER doctor, voodoo, and dead people who come to her for help... Nicki Styx has her hands full in this funny and fast-moving entertaining book. I am going out today to see if Garey has any more books out there.
|
| Christy H. (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Caress of Flame by Sherri L. King |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Being a fan of both Ms. King and her Shikar stories, I was thrilled to read this next book in the Horde Wars series. (Although it isn't necessary to read the whole series in order to be able to enjoy this book, it would definitely help you to understand better.) Full of action, suspense and romance. this storyline and the characters Flare and Isis will hook you from the first page to the last.
|
| Genie |
Fire Me Up by Katie MacAlister |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Looking for a paranormal romance with lots of action? This may be the book for you. There are demons, incubi, ghosts, and dragons disguised as humans. Aisling decides to attend a conference in the hope of finding a mentor. Why a mentor? It's difficult to be a Guardian-Demon Keeper when you haven't had any formal training. It's a simple enough plan but complications soon materialize, maybe because one of the dragons decides to claim Aisling as his mate. Then there's the amulet she is supposed to deliver for her uncle's courier service. Since she's wearing the amulet for safe keeping, she encounters all sorts of odd situations and individuals. When two mentors attending the conference die under suspicious circumstances, Aisling's acquaintance to both seems to be the only connection. She soon finds herself forced into the role of detective. Her life depends on it!
|
| Judith Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Brother Odd by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I think out of all the three Odd Thomas books, this was the best. I was too sad at the end of the first one, and this ended nicely. But we can rest easy, Odd Thomas will be back with another adventure!
|
| Christy H. |
Things That Go Bump in the Night by Lorie O'Clare, J. C. Wilder and Ashleigh Raine |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This collection from three of my favorite authors makes for a perfect Halloween read. Filled with lots of action, fantasy, shape shifting, romance and sex, each story has a fun and entertaining plot with memorable characters.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Go Ask Alice by Anonymous |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I remember hearing about this book many years ago and now I finally got around to reading it. It is the diary of a young girl who grew up in the 60s and gets mixed up with drugs. It is pretty sad because you can tell by reading her diary that she really loved her family. They seemed strong, her parents were together, and Alice seems to be an average teenager. So, you try and figure out what could have possibly gone wrong with this young life?
My thought is that part of the reason this happened was because she was a victim of the era. The 60s were very turbulent, between the war, the assignations of King and the Kennedys, and the “hippy” style that was popular then. Drugs were a huge part of this time, and they were popular and easy to get. It also seemed like this girl had very low self-esteem and didn’t feel like she had anyone to talk to about her fears and the drug use. She seemed very manipulated by her friends and the drug scene at school. This book teaches kids and parents several lessons. When the drug use began with this teenager, it was during the summer when she was staying with her grandparents. She had too much freedom to come and go as she pleased and should have been on a tighter rein. Parents should know where their teenager is and who they are with at all times. Open communication is key not only between the teenager and parents, but with teachers and counselors at school as well. The drug scene in schools have not gone away. It may look different than the 60s, but it’s definitely still there. I would recommend this book to all teenagers and parents. It may help someone make a decision to “say no”.
|
| Heather M (hmacleod645@hotmail.com) |
Here If You Need Me by Kate Braestrup |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I am reading HERE IF YOU NEED ME by Kate Braestrup --- it's a true story about how a woman overcame her husband's death by becoming what her husband always wanted to be, a minister. It's very heartwarming and I think anyone could relate to her, how she talks about her task, and what she did as a single mother. The book offers some laughs and some tears, but is a very nice true story.
|
| M. Davis (marlys366@aol.com) |
Keeping the World Away by Margaret Forster |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This novel follows the progress of an actual painting as it goes from one owner to the next. It's told from the points of view of the several women who own the painting, beginning with the artist who created it in the early 20th century.
|
| Susan in AZ |
Running Out of Time by Margaret Peterson Haddix |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I loved this young adult novel about 14-year-old Jessie Keyser, who finds out her world isn't at all what she thought it was. She believes she is living in a small frontier town in 1840. It turns out that she lives outside of Indianapolis in 1996, in a village that is part of a living historical museum. The village is rigged with hidden cameras that allow tourists to watch every move Jessie and her friends make. Although Jessie was never supposed to learn the truth, her mother tells her because diphtheria has broken out in the town and children are going to die if they don't get modern medical care. Although the museum's creators are aware of the problem, they refuse to help. Jessie is therefore told to sneak out of the village and find help. She dons jeans and a t-shirt her mother had secretly stashed away, and slips out of the town. What ensues is a thrilling race against time to find help for the village Jessie loves. Her mission is fraught with danger and will require all of her strength and wit. It's an adventure adults and kids will love.
|
| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
Am I Alive? by Sandy Purl |
Rating: 4 Stars |
As Southern Flight 242 went down in a hailstorm, flight attendant Sandy Purl did all she could for her passengers. Nothing prepared her for what she saw. For 3 years, the people and job she loved the most turned against her, her nights were filled with guilt, nightmares and inappropriate behavior toward those she loved. Seventy-two people died --- why did she survive? This is the true story of how Sandy Purl spent 3 years in agony after the crash and how she came through it all.
|
| Noreen |
Light of Day by Jamie M. Saul |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book was thought provoking, with great character development. It was beautifully written while providing suspenseful questions that needed answering. I couldn't put it down.
|
| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
A Far Cry from Home by Lisa Ferrill |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Have you ever walked by homeless people and ignored them? Why are they there? Who are they? This is a true account of the daily struggle for decency and dignity for those who have no choice but to live on the streets.
Lisa Ferrill spent her job as a social worker in a homeless shelter for women. She was not prepared for what she saw --- there were not enough funds, not enough beds.
This book makes you wonder why we aren't doing more. Next time you walk by a homeless person, what will you do? Or will you do anything?
|
| Kate (melydia@hotmail.com) |
The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This is not one of Weiner's better works. The stories feel more like disconnected scenes without enough plot to stand alone. Those that do have plots are almost painfully predictable. Weiner is far more brilliant as a novelist.
|
| Noreen |
Rebecca's Tale by Sally Beauman |
Rating: 3 Stars |
We read REBECCA by Daphne du Maurier last summer, then watched the movie. One year later, we read REBECCA'S TALE and talked about similarities, differences, and whether follow-ups should be written for the classics. Opinions were divided on this book, thus I put my rating at average. Some loved it. while others disliked it.
|
| Ma Titwonky (matitwonky@gmail.com) |
Charlie Wilson's War by George Crile |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This well-written book is the story of how Charlie Wilson, Gust Avrakotos and President Zia of Pakistan (along with some hefty contributions of money from Saudi Arabia) funded the Afghan freedom fighters in driving Russian forces from Afghanistan during the 1980s. As a result of Charlie Wilson's commitment to helping the Afghan freedom fighters, Russia was defeated and ultimately the Cold War ended.
It is entirely up to the reader to decide whether Charlie Wilson (a Representative from Texas who served on the House Defense Appropriations Budget committee) was a buffoon or a hero, but there is no dispute that without his support and American taxpayer money, the Afghan freedom fighters would have lost to the Russians. It should also be noted that thanks to Charlie Wilson's generosity and commitment to Afghanistan, he made it possible for the Taliban to have access to plenty of weapons when they took over the country after the Russians left.
I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in Afghanistan's history with the US and the CIA. Like Don Imus says, "You can't make this stuff up."
|
| CJ Jones (ajones1021@comcast.net) |
The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I would give this book 10 stars if I could --- it is no wonder the Seattle Times rated it as a book "that everyone should read." It follows the arranged marriage of the Ganguli family --- Bengalis from Calcutta --- through the birth and growth of their two children into maturity. You will experience the pain, languor, cultural clashes, the desire to follow their time honored traditional beliefs and yet assimilate into the American society. From a tiny apartment in Boston to a suburban home, from Hinduism to the "children's need for a Christmas tree," most of the fast -moving lyrical novel is seen through the mother's and the son's eyes; marriage, death, laughter and tears --- you will experience them w/ this family. You will realize how truly difficult it is to become a part of our great society and yet hold on to your time honored beliefs. This is the young authoress's 2nd book; her first won a Pulitzer. This is an amazing read.
|
| Stephanie |
The Cinderella Pact by Sarah Strohmeyer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
THE CINDERELLA PACT was the best book I've read in a long time. It will make any woman feel great.
|
| Noreen |
Coal Black Horse by Robert Olmstead |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This civil war book is so beautifully written, I found myself re-reading many paragraphs. It's a well-crafted book that I couldn't put down.
|
| Susan in AZ |
Carbs & Cadavers by J. B. Stanley |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This is one of those books that makes you say, "My 5th grader could have written a better book than that." I had to sit on my hands so I wouldn't grab a red marker and make the book bleed with editing marks.
Anyway, it tells the story of Henry James, an English professor who has moved back home to take care of his father following his mother's death. Newly divorced, he is lonely and discouraged. He joins a supper club for dieters on a whim, and finds himself in a surprisingly enjoyable situation. Soon, however, his new friends drag him into a murder investigation that proves to be more dangerous to his health than the cheese puffs he can't seem to resist. Will the amateur detectives find the real killer? Or will an innocent woman go to prison? And, most importantly, will Henry and his supper group lose any weight?
The answers to these questions are, not surprisingly, yes, no, yes. The fact that they are no surprise at all shows you how predictable this mystery is. Not only is it utterly predictable, but the writing is sloppy, the characters are flat clichés, and the "tasty, healthy" recipes promised on the back cover are almost nonexistent. This story's about as satisfying as a rice cake. And not one of the caramel ones either.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Night by Elie Wiesel |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was about Elie and his family who are rounded up from their hometown of Transylvania and shipped off to Auschwitz. Elie gives a detailed account of his experience, from the time they are put in the “ghetto,” to the day of liberation. Everyone in the world should read this book. Hopefully, we can learn from this history and never let it happen again. If any book can reveal the horrors of the Holocaust, this one can.
|
| Judy O. |
Power Play by Joseph Finder |
Rating: 4 Stars |
All of the executives of Hammond Aerospace Corporation are taken hostage by 5 men while attending a corporate "team building" experience at a remote fishing lodge in British Columbia. It seems to be up to junior executive Jack Landry to save them all. This was a compelling read. My main concern was trying to keep track of all the names and jobs of the book's characters. A page at the beginning or end of the book with this information on it would have helped.
|
| Nicole (mike810nicole@aol.com) |
The Manny by Holly Peterson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A nice, fun read. I kept changing my mind on what I wanted to happen in the end. I think that a sign of good writing --- it means that the characters were believable and very life-like.
|
| Kathy Boucher (kboucher@cableone.net) |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Such a sad commentary on how kids are so influenced by their peers. Some struggle just to keep going day to day, in spite of teasing, put-downs, name-calling,and general harassment. Others struggle to be "in" with their peers, to the detriment of their own personalities. This is the story of one horrific school massacre (like Columbine) and a very good insight into how and why this young man did such a horrible thing. This book was very well written, and definitely gives the reader food for thought.
|
| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
We Were in Auschwitz by Janusz Siedlecki, Krystyn Olszewski, Tadeusz Borow |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a true account of those who were held in concentration camps in Auschwitz --- it tells their stories of survival and ordeals.
I am saddened to know so many died and were affected for no reason. Are all men created equal? Read this and find out.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
The Bean Trees by Barbara Kingsolver |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a story of Taylor Greer, who is from a small Kentucky town and is lucky enough to stay in school, get an education, find a job, save some money, leave town and head west. After inheriting a little girl named “Turtle,” she settles down in Tuscon, Arizona where she gets a job and makes some interesting friends.
There was something missing from this book. I am struggling with exactly what. I thought some of the characters, like Lou Ann and Taylor, were developed well enough, while others could have been developed more. I thought the story dragged in some parts. I felt like I was missing some key points that should have been mentioned in the book, but weren’t. Although there was some good humor and some interesting parts that kept my attention, I can’t say this book left an impression.
|
| Michelle Archer |
The Innocent Man by John Grisham |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This would not normally be my kind of book, but it kept me reading, and more importantly, it kept me thinking. As I became more and more fascinated with this true story of a man wrongly convicted and sent to death row, I constantly shifted between "this could not happen" and "this probably happens all the time." A sad yet important book.
|
| Sonia Chopra |
The Collection by Gioia Diliberto |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A fascinating, mesmerizing account of a seamstress in the workroom of fashion icon Coco Chanel. It accurately captures the historical background in France, the war and the obsession with fashion.
|
| Jon |
The Tin Roof Blowdown by James Lee Burke |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is one of Burke's better books of late. The story is wrapped around the Katrina disaster in New Orleans, which gives it a rather dark subtext. There is interesting imagery and metaphoric good-and-evil stuff in the plot. There is not much action from Robicheaux in this one, though --- mostly philosophizing and dialogue. Alafair kicks some butt too.
|
| Bridget |
Murder Off the Books by Evelyn David |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A mystery with an ex-cop as a private eye. The main suspect's sister works at funeral home, so there are lots of jokes about that business. A light, and easy.
|
| Jane A. |
The Verneys by Adrian Tinniswood |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This nonfiction book is about a 17th-century English family. The Verney family kept and cataloged a remarkable amount of correspondence that documents life during the time of King Charles I and Cromwell. It is an amazing look into the everyday life and politics of that time.
|
| Peggy |
Bold Sons Of Erin by Owen Parry |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Set during the American Civil War, a Union general is murdered while recruiting Irish immigrants. The proclaimed murdered dies of cholera before he can be questioned by Major Abel Jones. Major Jones, appointed by President Lincoln, opens the killer's grave to discover the body of a young woman. In the voice of Mark Twain, this novel is beautifully written.
|
| Chris Bush |
The Girls by Lori Lansens |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Lori Lansens is a phenomenal writer! In this tale she introduces conjoined twins Rose and Ruby, who --- at 29 --- are the oldest living craniopagus twins on record. Though they are destined to be joined for their whole lives, Lansens gives each a unique voice and personality that will endear them to your heart forever. Our book club was fortunate enough to get to chat with Ms. Lansens about this terrific book and we were able to ask all of our burning questions --- what a treat!
|
| Chris Bush |
Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Lancaster turns her misfortune into laughs when she decides to blog about her troubles, then put them all into a book. I spent a good portion of this book guffawing at her observations of friends and the world in general, but could still feel compassion over her panic at trying to find a job and make ends meet.
|
| Chris Bush |
Back on Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This feel-good novel is a continuation of Macomber's Blossom Street series and introduces a new character and flower shop on the street. These ladies help each other through life's mishaps and deepen their friendships in the process through love, common sense and knitting. Highly recommended!
|
| Jean |
Lottery by Patricia Wood |
Rating: 4 Stars |
LOTTERY was the selection for our September book club meeting and everyone enjoyed it. We have 10 members and it received a rating of 8.5. The book was captivating from the very beginning and Wood's list of characters was fantastic.
|
| Jean |
Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I wasn't sure I could read a book about a school shooting, but as with all of Picoult's other books, I found it hard to put down. It really makes you think about life and what children go through in school.
|
| Trish Masciotti (trishm426@hotmail.com) |
Abundance by Sena Jeter Naslund |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Although I've never had a strong interest in learning about the life of Marie Antoinette, I'm thrilled to be reading such a great novel about her. The author has written this book in a wonderfully charming manner, spoken from the young Marie's voice. Her narration is interesting and alluring, giving us a glimpse of what life was like during this time period in France. Also, we get to watch a young, innocent fourteen-year-old girl mature into a position of nobility.
|
| Juanita |
SImple Genius by David Baldacci |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very interesting book. I'm hoping to solve the mystery before I read it, but so far, I haven't!
|
| Anita Nowak |
Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent book! It is hard to put down --- a story about an older man in a nursing home reminising about his youth as a vet in the circus. It made me laugh and cry. It was so wonderful!
|
| Debbie Le (deble_2000@yahoo.com) |
A Three Dog Life by Abigal Thomas |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Abigail Thomas's husband Rich was hit by a car saving their beloved beagle Harry. Rich had extensive brain damage and had to be put into a nursing home with early onset dementia. Abigail adopts two more dogs that bring her comfort.
|
| Irene Berton |
The Worst Hard Time by Timothy Egan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A can't-put-down book. A fascinating look at the story of the Dust Bowl and the unimaginable hardship the people endured.
|
| Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
The Yiddish Policemen's Union by Michael Chabon |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I loved THE AMAZING ADVENTURES OF KAVALIER & CLAY. However, this book is a little hard to get caught up in. I do like the fact that the story is very imaginative.
|
| Judith Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
From Thunder to Breakfast by Gene K. Garrison |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the best books I have read in a long time. Not something I would have picked up, but I'm glad to cross its path!
|
| Kathleen G (callista83@cogeco.ca) |
Midwives by Chris Bohjalian |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read this book on a recommendation and I enjoyed it immensely. It's the story of a midwife whose patient dies during childbirth, so she performs an emergency C-section to save the baby. Afterwards, the question is raised, was the mother REALLY dead? Or did the midwife kill her with the C-section? The trial follows. This book is actually fiction but all throughout, it read like a memoir. I had to remind myself numerous times that this book was not real. That's how wonderfully written it was. I also learned a lot about midwives.
|
| Kathleen G (callista83@cogeco.ca) |
Marley and Me by John Grogan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book was awesome, and possibly my best read of the year. It's the story of Marley, the world's worst dog. I laughed out loud and cried out loud at parts. It was easy to read but easy to get into as well. I thoroughly enjoyed it and recommend it to everyone.
|
| Bridget |
50 Harbor Street by Debbie Macomber |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Light novel that is sort of a romance and sort of a mystery about the people in a northwestern town. It's good for a long afternoon.
|
| Irene Berton |
Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick |
Rating: 5 Stars |
As an immigrant, all I knew about the Mayflower/Pilgrims was what I read in my children's books. Not very accurate, I must say. Mr. Philbrick did me a great favor, thanks.
|
| Barbara DOrmer (bdorm@aol.cm) |
Loving Frank by Nancy Morgan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I didn't feel the passion from Mamah, to leave her husband and kids to go off and live with Frank.
|
| Eileen |
The Sonnet Lover by Carol Goodman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you love mystery, but also love Wordsworth and the sonnets, as well as MUTINY ON THE BOUNTY, this book is for you. The characters sweep from a tough London neighborhood to the Lake District and a sheep farm when a "Bog Body" is uncovered, who just may be Fletcher Christian. An academic unwittingly turns detective. looking for what may be an unpublished sonnet, and overnight, sonnet lovers become murderers in this exciting and suspenseful novel that is full of surprises.
|
| Pat P. |
Songs Without Words by Anne Packar |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved the Anne's other book, THE DIVE FROM CLAUSEN'S PIER, so I was anxiously awaiting her latest novel. And boy, was it worth the wait! As the mother of teenagers, I felt that I could really identify with Liz's perspective of what she "thought" her daughter was going through and not be farther from the truth. Meanwhile, her best friend seemed like she was still going through her teenage years in a strangely parallel way, having never recovered from her own mother's death. This is simultaneously a story about the mental spiral, (up and down) of a teenager and the story of the complicated relationship between two childhood friends. Complex and compelling, this is definitely my next choice for our next book club selection.
|
| Eileen |
Peony in Love by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you loved SNOWFLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN, be prepared to be mesmerized once again by PEONY IN LOVE, a love story that once again envelops us in Chinese culture and the role of women. Mothers of daughters will recognize the young girls' dreams and their own hopes for a world that will let all women find their voices.
|
| Jeanie |
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A whimsical book of two half-sisters: Claire, stayed put after her mother deserted her and grew up with her grandmother; and Sidney, who left home and never looked back until she had to escape an abusive relationship.
Also, the family apple tree is a character in its own right in this very unusual delightful story.
|
| Trez (wbtrez@aol.com) |
New England White by Stephen L. Carter |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a very good mystery. It kept me on the edge of my seat, and gave me great insight into the lives of the African American upper class. However, toward the end of the novel, I wasn't really sure I totally understood the entire plot. Maybe I need to read it again.
|
| Karen Barash |
March by Geraldine Brooks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
March gives the reader a very vivid picture of Civil War battles, as well as slavery.
|
| Grabs |
Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A superb look into circus life during the depression, loaded with detail about the performers, the crew, the animals and most of all, the caste system within. In many ways, it is a unique comparative study of a man and an elephant and they way they are treated by those around them.
|
| Bev Uebel |
Ava's Man: A Memoir by Rick Bragg |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An old one that I hadn't read...excellent read!
|
| Sandy |
Swimming Lessons by Mary Alice Monroe |
Rating: 5 Stars |
In this follow-up to THE BEACH HOUSE, Mary Alice Monroe returns to South Carolina's breathtaking Isle of Palms in a heartwarming novel about living fearlessly. It's been 5 years since Toy Sooner found a place to call home. She left behind an abusive, dysfunctional lifestyle to become a strong, single mother and a marine biologist at the South Carolina Aquarium. That success has taken its toll, leaving her personal life in its wake. But, things change the day Toy rescues a sick sea turtle on the beach.
|
| Edie (Eworobe@yahoo.com) |
Force of Nature by Suzanne Brrockmann |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Wonderful book.
|
| Karen |
Color Me Butterfly by L. Y. Marlow |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The author caught my attention from the beginning. I read the book in 2 sittings. The horror that those in abusive relationships must deal with was sometimes more than I could stand to read. I needed to know how these women overcame this abuse and moved on with their lives. In some cases they didn't ever get past the abuse; in others, they became stronger women and would not let the abuse continue for another generation to deal with. Even in these relationships that were so physically and emotionally hurtful, the women and children were able to find good times to celebrate in their lives.
|
| Judy Goldsmith (judyjtg@sbcglobal.net) |
For One More Day by Mitch Albom |
Rating: 3 Stars |
An interesting read with much to think about.
|
| Kathy |
The Tin Roof Blowdown by James Lee Burke |
Rating: 5 Stars |
James Lee Burke's novel set in southern Louisiana during and after Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005 is a masterpiece. The protagonist, Dave Robicheaux, again is solving crimes but amidst the worst natural disaster in US history. Mr. Burke's writing is so evocative that you can see, smell, and taste the tragedy that befell Louisiana. This novel is the author's greatest work. I know he will be seen as one of the finest authors of American novels.
|
| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
Custody For Two by Karen Rose Smith |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A light, romantic book. Dylan Malloy is a globe-trotting photographer who has just lost the only family he has ever known, his sister and her husband. Their premature baby is in the hospital fighting for his life. When he rushes to the baby's side, he discovers that he is not Timmy's legal guardian. His sister left the child with her friend, Shaye Batholomew. Dylan doesn't plan on giving up Timmy without a fight, and in the process, he and Shaye find out they have a chemistry between them that can't be denied.
|
| Karen |
Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Wonderful non-fiction account of a 30-something nurse who, through a mountain climbing accident, finds the poor and almost non-existent schooling of the Pakistani children. He vows to raise money to build a school. This book is his account of that ambitious goal and where it leads! So nice to have a current role model on how a dream becomes a reality becomes life changing for many.
|
| AnneMarie DeRemer (amderemer@gmail.com) |
Bitsy's Bait & BBQ by Pamela Morsi |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Morsi has created an amusing story that entertains while exploring the importance of community, forgiveness, and redemption.
|
| Fran |
Whistling in the Dark by Lesley Kagen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Told from the first-person perspective of a ten-year-old child, this story tells the tale of Sally and Troo, two sisters who have only one another and a few kind neighbors to keep them safe. Their mother is hospitalized and their step-father abandons them for alcohol, so the children must rely on one another for all their basic needs. With a bit of mystery and suspense, this book keeps the pages turning. I loved it. Troo and Sally are characters that will stay with me for a long time. Anyone who is a sister will truly appreciate the bond between these little girls.
|
| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
Dime Store Magic by Kelley Armstrong |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I would give this 10 stars. It's a great book for the fans of the paranormal. This is actually the 3rd book in a series, I haven't read the others but I plan to.
|
| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
Harlequin Duets #100 by Jennifer Drew & Holly Jacobs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book contains 2 full novels, YOU'LL BE MINE IN 99 by Jennifer Drew and THE 100-YEAR ITCH by Holly Jacobs. Both are funny, romantic reads set in Hiho, Ohio during what is supposed to be their centennial celebration.
|
| Marsha |
Now You See Him by Eli Gottlieb |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This beautifully written and unforgettable novel unleashes unexpected revelations in the lives of two childhood friends. After the death of one, the other begins to re-evaluate his own life, and we follow his journey to a shocking conclusion.
|
| Loretta Sanford (lorettasanford@hotmail.com) |
Bangkok Haunts by John Burdett |
Rating: 5 Stars |
You will learn a lot about Thailand --- their police department, and their senses of honor, cruelty and religion are extremely different from our way of looking at life. I also loved Burdett's other two mysteries. I always learn so much, but they are not for everyone.
|
| Carol |
The Many Lives and Secret Sorrows of Josephine B. by Sandra Gulland |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is the first in a series of three about Josephine Bonaparte. All are fabulous and filled with rich historical detail. I've learned so much about Napoleon and Josephine and the era in which they lived! And the author gives all this delicious information in an entertaining and informative way using the "diary method" of writing it. I'd recommend this to anyone, but especially to those who love historical fiction.
|
| Loretta Sanford (lorettasanford@hotmail.com) |
Slipknot by greenlaw |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I was disappointed --- was this a cozy, or a fishing boat manual?
|
| Kay Keller |
The Wheel of Darkness by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child |
Rating: 5 Stars |
When these two authors write together, magic happens. This is another wonderful thriller that includes my favorite unstoppable character, Special Agent Aloysius Pendergast. In this adventure Pendergast and his ward, Constance, begin their journey in a monastery and then take to the high seas. A Preston/Child thriller is as good as it gets!!
|
| eileen |
Hermit in Paris by Italo Calvino |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This autobiographical novel gives us insight into Calvino's travels in the United States. As the introduction states, Calvino believed that "what counts is what we are, and the way we deepen our relationship with the world and with others, a relationship that can be one both of love for all that exists and of desire for its transformation." It is breathtakingly readable and enjoyable.
|
| Sylvie Edwards (rsedwards@sympatico.ca) |
The Meaning of Night by Michael Cox |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was probably, by far, one of the best books that I have read in the last 5 years. Within the first few pages, you are taken to Victorian England and intrigue already starts to build.
Mr. Cox proves himself as a great writer by closing every thread, shaping great characters and giving you a story wrought with tragedy.
I am surprised this book has not been nominated for any awards. It would win for certain.
|
| Dot L. |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Listed as a book for young adults, this book is wonderful for all readers. The device of using death as the narrator works so well. I plan to recommend this to my book club.
|
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
The Judas Strain by James Rollins |
Rating: 5 Stars |
James Rollins never disappoints the reader. His novels always make you want to read "just one more page." This is no exception. The main character and his group from SIGMA travel from DC to Christmas Island to Cambodia, trying to determine what is causing the deadly bacteria that is the culprit blamed for the deaths of humans as well as sea life. With the opposition being the infamous Guild and their spies that have been infiltrated into SIGMA, no one is sure of who the moles actually are. A great book!
|
| Linda H. (linda604b@yahoo.com) |
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A true account of a rehabilitated boy soldier and his trials, as the rebels storm his village in Sierre Leone, killing all. Fleeing the rebels, he loses his family. In his travels to try to find his lost ones, he is given shelter by government soldiers and becomes a boy soldier, addicted to drugs in order to perform better. He is saved by the UN and is helped back into society. This is one of the most heartwarming books I have read in a long time.
|
| Joan Woods (buckeye14@tampabay.rr.com) |
The MacKenzies by Ana Leigh |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an 8-book series about the Mackenzie family. It has romance, humor, and it teaches you about the value of honesty and family love, among other things.
|
| Nancy D. |
Peony in Love by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was amazed to learn that the characters in the book were real (though not as ghosts, of course).
|
| Maddie Silverman |
Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful Holocaust and present-day story that I couldn't put down!
|
| PJ. |
Dust by Martha Grimes |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This summer, I re-read the Richard Jury series by Martha Grimes and this was the last one. I have read almost all of them as they came out, but upon re-reading them in order, I realized how much I'd missed --- not just in the references to other characters, but to entire story lines in this series. If you like mysteries, if you like England, if you like sarcasm, this author, this book, is not to be skipped.
|
| Patty Blackwell |
You've Been Warned by James Patterson & Howard Roughan |
Rating: 3 Stars |
It sounds kind of strange, especially if you've started reading the book, but I had kind of a deja vu about this. I knew the ending from the 2nd chapter, as I felt like I'd read it before. I still couldn't put it down (mainly because I wanted to find out what was so familiar and because Patterson always writes the characters so realistically). I don't know what it was. This book was good, but not as good as JUDGE & JURY, STEP ON A CRACK (which I'm reading now) or many of his other novels.
|
| Aimee Hegedus |
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An incredible memoir filled with humor, sadness and hope.
|
| Beverly |
Cion by Zakes Mda |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Wonderful language and description of American habits and rituals (like Halloween) as seen through the eyes of the main character,Toloki, a professional mourner from South Africa.
|
| Joyce |
Skinned by Joanne Clarey |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Suspense builds up fast in this chilling thriller. Forensic Pyschologist Dr. McMorrow fights both herself and her tormentor as she tries to investigate human trafficking in Maine, USA. This book entertains, entices and educates. It is fast paced, well written, has very real and well-developed characters, including the psychopath, Stephen Scott. It also focuses on the horrors of modern-day slavery and human trafficking. Altogether a very entertaining read.
|
| Carol Bartley Brown |
The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This memoir is similar to ANGELA'S ASHES in context. It portrays the author's life in the U.S. as a child and young woman. She has many obstacles to overcome, including poverty and parents who are not capable of raising a family. It is heartbreaking to read, but also inspiring. I highly recommend this book.
|
| Myrna |
Astrid and Veronika by Linda Olsson |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A story of the sadnesses people bury deep inside them, and the catharsis that comes from sharing them with someone. In this case, Astrid is an 80-something year old, while Veronika is just entering her 30s. It's a bit depressing, but I'm sticking with it because I'm reading it for a book club discussion.
|
| Ivy |
Still Summer by Jacquelyn Mitchard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is about 4 friends who embark on a trip on a yacht. It starts off slowly. but the things that happen in the middle of the vast waters was enough to keep me reading well into the night/early morning. Mitchard's ability to take the reader along for the ride is amazing! I won't ever view yachting in the same way again.
|
| Julie Towson |
Four Seasons in Rome by Anthony Doerr |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderfully written true-life story about the author's one year in Rome. He won The Rome Prize, a prestigious award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters. His wife had given birth to twins six months before. This is his adventure, along with his wife and babies, of adjusting to living in a completely different place than he's used to (he's from the Midwest), not understanding any Italian and in his words, "twins, insomnia, and the biggest funeral in the history of the world." (He was there during the death of the Pope).
|
| Kay O |
Lost and Found by Carolyn Parkhurst |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is set as a reality show and the follows the contestants as they go through it. I could not put this book down. It was fascinating to see how the depth of the characters came out. If you like reality shows this book is for you.
|
| Susan C |
Songs Without Words by Ann Packer |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is the story of best friends, Liz and Sarabeth, who know everything about each other, almost to the exclusion of Liz's husband. Liz's daughter attempts suicide and the dynamics of this and how it affects Sarabeth (whose own mother killed herself) colors this novel. I didn't care for this book --- I thought the main characters were boring and lifeless.
|
| C Burnham (c17itzme1@aol.com) |
Our Mother's War by Emily Yellin |
Rating: 4 Stars |
In preparation for "The War" series on PBS by Ken Burns, I have been reading this book about the American women at home and on the Front during World War II. I have found it extremely interesting, and full of real American stories of brave Americans who pulled together to win the war.
|
| Amee B Enders |
Eclipse by Stephenie Meyer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the third book in the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. I loved this installment, especially after being disappointed in the second book. The third has now renewed my interest in the series and I'm excited to see where Meyer takes us next.
|
| Liz |
A Long Way Gone: Memoirs of a Boy Soldier by Ishmael Beah |
Rating: 4 Stars |
It is hard to say it was good, but it is spellbinding to think this child could be healed from the horror in his young life.
|
| Gloria |
Miss Seaton at Helm by Charles Hampton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This story is a great adventure that keeps one wondering what will happen next, This author has a way with a story that pulls you in and keeps you there until the last page. If you like whodunits, this is great.
|
| mainlinebooker |
Up High in the Trees by Kiara Brinkman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A poignant, exquisitely painful look at grief from an 8-year-old Asperger's child who recently lost his mother.
|
| mainlinebooker |
Sarah's Key by Tatiana de Rosnay |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A heart-thumping fictional book about the Jewish children of Veldome D"Hiver in July 42, who were sent to death by the French police.
|
| mainlinebooker |
Bloodletting & Miraculous Cures by Vincent Lam MD |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Winner of Canadian Giller Prize for fiction in 2006, this was an unblinking look through the eyes of 4 med students of their fears, choices and temptations.
|
| mainlinebooker |
Engleby by Sebastian Faulks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Brilliant writing quite unlike his previous works about a singular disturbed man who is not quite mentally balanced.
|
| mainlinebooker |
DeNiro's Game by Rawi Hage |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Explosive stunning story of war between Christians and Muslims in Lebanon with lyrical and vivid imagery.
|
| Rita Sheppard (arochel52@hotmail.com) |
The Cleaner by Brett Battles |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is an edge-of-your-seat story in which the main character, who works for The Office, has uncovered a sinister plot. Most of the people who work for The Office are killed in a wide-sweeping murder spree. He kills the murderer and then assembles a team to foil the plot, then is chased across the US, Europe, and Asia, all the while dodging murder attempts against all of them. He's down to the wire trying to foil the terrorist plot before it's too late and gets an unwelcome surprise in the process.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Little Stalker by Jennifer Belle |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Very dark humor which had me laughing out loud several times. This is one of those books that snuck up on me and I didn't realize how much I enjoyed it until I was done.
|
| Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com) |
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A Tale of Two Sisters! As I too have two sisters, I really enjoyed this family saga featuring Claire and Sydney Waverly. Its an enchanting story, very poetically presented as "the siblings make peace with their past!" Good discussable issues for female book review clubs.
|
| Genie |
Dead Girls Are Easy by Terry Garey |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Nicki Styx, co-owner of a vintage clothing shop, is pleased with her somewhat off-beat lifestyle. One day, a heart defect she never knew she had causes Nicki to suffer a near fatal-death experience (NDE), spending a brief time "on the other side". Soon afterward Nicki discovers how completely her life has changed. Left with the ability to see recently departed individuals, she is now asked to pass along messages to family members and, at times, direct a restless spirit to the light. Although somewhat eerie, it seemed a harmless ability until a friend who was involved in the practice of voodoo is murdered. Suddenly Nicki's life takes a turn into more dangerous situations than she ever imagined possible. Even worse, the danger begins to overlap with the lives of her closest friends.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Dating Dead Men by Harley Jane Kozak |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book started slowly start for me. I wish the author had developed the characters a little more before really beginning the story. By the end, it was a page turner.
|
| Bonny Dixon MacIsaac |
A Forest for Calum by Frank Macdonald |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A FOREST FOR CALUM explores complex lives of rural communities in the post-war, post-heavy industry decades of the mid-twentieth century. It does so with dignity and humor. A well written and exceptional first novel for MacDonald. I highly recommend it if you enjoy a great novel.
|
| Gale |
Dead Ex by Harley Jane Kozak |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Enterprising greeting card designer/muralist/TV dating correspondent Wollie Shelley is back in another sassy Hollywood adventure. This time, Wollie and her actress friend Joey try to uncover the truth about the death of a soap-opera producer who each had dated in the past. Kozak's witty story and kooky characters keep readers entertained.
|
| Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com) |
The Dowry Bride by Shobhan Bantwal |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was a lucky winner of an advanced reader copy of this book. I highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys learning about other cultures. It is a truly fascinating story of a young Indian girl and her arranged marriage.
|
| Michelle Bradley |
The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent book that is evocative of Pre- and Post War Japan. There are excellent descriptions of life as a sumo wrestler.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
The Buenos Aires Broken Hearts Club by Jessica Morrison |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A quick mindless read, but still enjoyable. A good way to waste a few hours :)
|
| Sandra Smith (ssmith0028@verizon.net) |
Middlesex by Jeffrey Eugenides |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I know I am behind most of the country, I'm just now reading MIDDLESEX --- I bought it months ago and just finally got started. I found it a little hard to get into, which is why I am giving it 4 stars instead of 5. Now I am glued to the book and am carrying it around with me, delighted that I have a long ways to go yet. I think this is the first book I have ever read with Greek characters. so it's also a learning experience, not to mention all the fascinating historical events that occurred in the span of time this novel takes place.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
No! I Don't Want to Join a Book Club by Virginia Ironside |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Bridget Jones for the over-60 set. I really enjoyed this look at getting older.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Hollywood Girls Club: A Novel by Maggie Marr |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very fun read! It reminds me a lot of "Sex and The City", except it is set in Hollywood. I can't wait for the sequel. The perfect beach book!
|
| Judith Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Journey of the Snow Goose by Barbary Chaapel |
Rating: 5 Stars |
JOURNEY OF THE SNOW GOOSE chronicles the author and her husband's day-to-day life aboard a sailboat and the trials they encountered. Barbary shares the colorful culture and foods experienced in each port as well as the special friendships they found along the way.
|
| Doris |
The Burnt House by Faye Kellerman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoy following the Rina Lazarus and Peter Decker series. This riveting story begins with Peter trying to solve the disappearance of a missing stewardess and happening upon a 30-year-old "cold case." The two cases are closely interwoven, and it is fascinating to watch how they are solved.
Underneath it all, I really like the relationships in the Decker family. This is a really enjoyable read!
|
| bk |
One Thousand White Women by Jim Fergus |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is fiction, but the hook is that in the 1870s, the Cheyenne offered the US Government 1,000 horses in trade if they would send 1,000 white women to have children by the Cheyenne. The trade never actually happened, but the book is a fictional version of one woman who was sent as part of the deal.
All kinds of women are on the trip --- the destitute plantation belle, the bible thumper, the woman from the insane asylum, etc. The belle is particularly funny.
We’ve all been at the end of our rope when anything has to be a change for the better. The women on the trip have that to contemplate before and after accepting the offer. I loved this book!
|
| bk |
Cover Your Assets by Patricia Smiley |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fun mystery that reminded me of Sue Grafton’s writing style. A fast read that had all the ingredients to make a tantalizing murder mystery.
|
| bk |
The Children’s Hour by Marcia Willett |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the 2nd book of Marcia Willett’s that I’ve thoroughly enjoyed. The story is about a family of young English children at the beginning of World War II. It takes you to current times as the children grow up to have lives and secrets of their own. If you enjoy Pilcher, Binchy, or writers of that style, then you’ll love Willett too. I’m so glad I found her. No vulgarity or gore, just a sweet story that leaves you feeling you knew this family in your own past.
|
| Terri |
The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Death narrates the story of a German foster child during World War II. It was really interesting to read something about the war that focused on the ordinary German people who weren't necessarily Nazis, but trying to get by as best they could under the circumstances. This was an easy read, with an interesting narrative style.
|
| Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com) |
The Kommandant's Girl by Pam Jenoff |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful story of a young Jewish girl in Krakow, Poland when the Nazis invade her country in 1939. This is a marvelous book. I highly recommend it to everyone.
|
| bk |
Killer Instinct by Joseph Finder |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fast-paced novel about a corporate sales rep who befriends a scruffy tow-truck driver. It’s a cautionary tale about how one small decision can result in changing our lives forever. Full of twists and turns, this psychological thriller is hard to put down.
|
| Donna |
Dinner With A Perfect Stranger by David Gregory |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The dinner invitation is from Jesus of Nazareth... what a concept! I felt as if I were sitting there through the entire dinner, just politely listening. I felt calmed by this story. A great, quick read.
|
| April Lemesh |
Every Dead Thing by John Connolly |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is my first foray back into fiction since a death in the family has had me reading nothing but bereavement books. I like cop/PI books with tough but tortured protagonists and although I am not finished with this yet, it is filling the bill as entertaining distraction.
|
| Joan |
Like Dandelion Dust by Karen Kingsbury |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very enjoyable book about a family who adopts a boy and later finds out it is not legal since the birth father did not sign the papers. When the birth father is released from prison, the court determines that the birth family should get the boy back. This, of course, did not sit well with the parents of the boy and they made plans to leave the country, only to find at the last minute that the birth mother relinquished her rights after her husband was again imprisoned. I would highly recommend this book.
|
| Terri |
The Virgin of Small Plains by Nancy Pickard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A compelling and interesting "mystery" about a small town and the murder of a young woman. I enjoyed the characters, and the development of the story, although there were a few spots where characters didn't seem to behave "in character." Overall a good read, though.
|
| Amanda From Tx |
Fatal Revenant by Stephen R Donaldson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
You need more stars for this book. It's incredible --- the passion and pain scream off the page, and even though the subject is often dark and full of despair, there is such a thread of determined hope and love that you rejoice to participate in the drama of the words.
|
| bk |
Missing Persons by Stephen White |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Once again, White’s psychologist gets involved in a mystery brought to his office by a client. There are lots of false assumptions, plus twists and turns before all is revealed. Murder, missing persons, headline news…it’s all there in this page turner. I winced at the author’s choice of using a real tragedy as the hook for this story. I felt that was disrespectful and inappropriate. His story would have been just as exciting if he had made up a similar case and not intruded on the loss of a real child. That choice struck me as greedy and tacky. But I still enjoyed the plot.
|
| Toni Blair |
Black Girl/White Girl by Joyce Carol Oates |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An excellent story about the relationship of two female college students, one black, one white, in the mid 1970s. Their differences and similarities make for an engrossing novel.
|
| bk |
Billy Strobe by John Martel |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a fast-paced courtroom novel that is a great beach read. Billy Strobe is a bright young law student with aspirations to become a lawyer for the little man just like his poor dad. Wanting to be included with the in-crowd, he finds himself as the fall guy for a stock scam thought up by the rich kids at school. His misdeed takes him to prison, and then on to the courtroom where he tries to free another prisoner who saved his life in the prison yard.
|
| bk |
Double Play by Robert B. Parker |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A tough guy returns from World War II and ends up being Jackie Robinson’s bodyguard as he enters the Major Leagues. Wanton women, organized crime, racial tension of the 1940s…it’s all there. The best part of the book on tape was Robert Forster’s droll voice. He’s perfect for books by Parker, Mickey, Spillane, etc.
|
| bk |
Strapless by Deborah Davis |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I rarely read non-fiction, but I’m glad I found this one. The author sought a gown for a Hollywood award ceremony. Nino Cerruti provided one which reminded the author of the painting of Madame X. Thus began her curious quest to learn about Madame X and her painter. The book reads like a novel about a family dynasty at the end of the 1800s. I came to know the painter, his friends, and his subjects.
There were many interesting tidbits; e.g. Oscar Wilde based his story of Dorian Gray on Sargent and another subject he painted: Madame X’s lover/doctor. It’s as dishy as a column by Dominick Dunne. Sargent was in the thick of all the gossip, society, and intrigue of his time.
As an added bonus, several of Sargent’s paintings are shown in the book.
|
| Amanda From Tx |
Force of Nature by Suzanne Brockman |
Rating: 2 Stars |
The main romance was well done, though the plot was confusing. However, the secondary romance just gave me the icks, for want of a better word to describe the negative emotion inspired.
|
| Gary (gdayton65@aol.com) |
At Dawn We Slept by Gordon W. Prange |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the story of Pearl Harbor and what led up to it. It is based on actual documents and took over 30 years to research and write. I am only on page 400+ of 800+ but the story is scary in that it seems we are making the same mistakes today. It's very well written, and makes both sides real.
|
| Susie |
Beyond Reach by Karin Slaughter |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Can't put it down.
|
| Susie |
Dirty Martini by J. A. Konrath |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The book is funny like Evanovich, with graphic murders like Slaughter.
|
| Susie |
Home To Big Stone Gap by Adriana Trigiani |
Rating: 4 Stars |
She knows small-town living.
|
| Susie |
How To Talk To A Widower by JonathanTropper |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Jonathan Tropper at his usual best.
|
| LM Montgomery Literary Society (MontgomeryLM1908@aol.com) |
Anne of Green Gables by L. M. Montgomery |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A classic for all ages for 100 hundred years. Learn about Anne's centennial at:
http://home.earthlink.net/~bcavert/index.html
|
| Ricki (rickimc@aol.com) |
The Luxe by Anna Godbersen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Although some spots seemed a little anachronistic, it was neat to read some clique lit set at the turn of the century. I hope it continues into a series.
|
| Linda Moeller (LINDALSHOT@aol.com) |
Perfectly Plum by edited by Leah Wilson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a book of essays from various authors and their viewpoints of the popular Janet Evanovich series. While interesting, it is a bit disappointing that it's totally unauthorized. I also expected the humor of actual Plum books, so that was a let down.But, it was interesting to see how other authors view the series.
|
| Myrna |
Atonement by Ian McEwan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book was well written, with lots to think about. It would be great for a book club.
|
| Dorothy Flood |
You've Been warned by James Patterson & Howard Roughan |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I am a big fan of James Patterson. Therefore, I finished the book in an attempt to figure out what was happening. It was a big disappointment. The entire book was about dreams and a crazy woman. You were not even given the opportunity to figure out who did it.
|
| Susan Helene Gottfried (susan@westofmars.com) |
The Next Killing by Rebecca Drake |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'll probably award it more stars as I finish it. So far, it's a great read.
|
| Maureen |
A Tree Grows in Brooklyn by Betty Smith |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A true classic. I loved this book from start to finish. I was sad when it ended. It's such a great story.
|
| Maureen |
Still Summer by Jacquelyn Mitchard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great thriller about 4 women left alone in the middle of the Caribbean, on a boat that is falling apart, with no food. A real page turner. I loved the relationship between all the women. Highly recommended.
|
| Dorothy Flood |
What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman |
Rating: 1 Stars |
I started to read this twice and couldn't get into it. After reading a review here, I gave it another try. No good.
|
| Fran |
Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Butler envisions a bleak future, where one girl strives to find hope in religion. If it weren't for Octavia's beautiful writing, this book could have been depressing.
|
| Linda Lenhoff |
Away by Amy Bloom |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I've long admired Bloom's work, but this novel expands on her details about how people act by adding a historic element. Bloom follows one woman's struggles, giving us incredibly layered characters along the way. It's nearly impossible to put down, but I did, mostly so I wouldn't finish it too fast. This was an extraordinary achievement. I can't imagine reading anything I like more this year.
|
| Ron Giner |
Risk by Dick Francis |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Dick Francis is second only to Harlan Coben as my favorite mystery/thriller writer. This book was written in 1990 and it concerns a man who wakes up and finds himself tied up on a boat at sea. He escapes after two weeks, but continues to be pursued while searching for the reason why. One reason why I like Francis so much is that his protagonists are always so likable, while his villains are always so despicable.
|
| Trudy |
Still Summer by Jacquelyn Mitchard |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a page turner for me! Three longtime friends and a teenager go on a week-long deluxe sailing vacation in the Caribbean, and things go horribly wrong in Paradise. It's a suspensful story about the survival of lives and friendships.
|
| Sandi |
When Wallflowers Die by Sandra West Prowell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I really enjoyed this murder mystery that takes place in Montana during the winter months. It was very suspenseful and I didn't guess who did it 'til the very end. I was sorry when I came to the end of the story. I looked for more books by this author but none have been released since this one (1996).
|
| Kristy Norris (rjs_justreading@yahoo.com) |
The Entertainer and the Dybbuk by Sid Fleischman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Like so many things in life, the story contains mystery, beauty, enchantment and horror. Dybbuk is Hebrew for "cleaving to," and remains one of the most enduring beliefs in Jewish folklore. This is the basis for Sid Fleischman's new book, which reveals age-appropriate information about the harsh cruelty inflicted upon the Jews during the Holocaust in a highly entertaining and unique way.
When twelve-year-old Avrom Amos, a dybbuk, takes up residence in the body of an American ventriloquist, what ensues is an eye opening, educational journey presented through a victim's eyes. Well actually, the voice is the conduit throughout the novel that allows the dybbuk to expose at least one Nazi SS commander, find justice for his murdered sister and himself, while at the same time bolstering the performance of The Great Freddie to new and unbelievable heights.
Filled with compassion and thought-provoking facts delivered by a sassy dybbuk that has more than one or two ghostly tricks planned makes THE ENTERTAINER AND THE DYBBUK a delightful read for all ages. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and would recommend it highly and without hesitation!
|
| Kristy Norris (rjs_justreading@yahoo.com) |
Look Into The Eyes of Evil by P. K. Parker |
Rating: 3 Stars |
FBI Special Agents Chris Delone and Marc Cullen are on the trail of a diabolical serial killer, known only as "Cutthroat". With the identity of the bad guy revealed very early on, this is more an action-packed, heart-stopping detective drama than mystery novel.
The depth of this killer's depravity is chilling, utilizing modern technology as well as chemical substances to incapacitate his victims. The inevitable showdown with detective's takes a stunning turn when Cutthroat discovers that the woman he considered his ultimate prey has found sanctuary in the arms of agent Chris Delone. Enraged and on the edge of absolute insanity, the killer simply adjusts his plans to include both Holly and the agent.
Parker writes with distinct voice and stylized action that is exciting and entertaining. A definite no-holds-barred, gutsy detective novel that takes the reader deep into the psyche of a social deviant that preys on the innocent. Although I would like to see a bit more character development to give the reader the opportunity to become emotionally invested in the characters as well as the heart-pounding action, LOOK INTO THE EYES OF EVIL is a good read that sets a solid stage for future installments.
|
| Jane (JerJanKel@aol.com) |
Imperial Life in the Emerald City by Rajiv Chandrasekaran |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This fascinating book was written by a Washington Post reporter about how woefully unprepared we were to begin helping Iraq as they made their journey to a democracy WE felt they needed. No matter what side of the fence you are on, politically, you have to read this account of the reality of our situation. It is eye opening and makes me wonder if this is the way it is and has been in every war, or is this one just an aberration?
|
