| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| Machete Season: The Killers in Rwanda Speak by Jean Hatzfeld |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is unbelievable! It is a true account of the killers of Tutsis. I am amazed at the lack of guilt any of these men felt while attacking their victims to include children. There are chapters talking about how this murder started and the goal of the killers.
It made me more aware of people in Rwanda and their plight. Are we so jealous of others that we resort to this?
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| Irene G. (irenej7@netzero.com) |
| Soul Patch by Reed Farrel Coleman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
The title SOUL PATCH is kind of a muystery itself. What is it supposed to mean? The cover of the book has a daunting picture of Coney Island in Brooklyn, which doesn't really catch someone's attention. But, the book is well written, has a story that is easy to follow and has movie potential.
Moe is a private investigator who gets involved in the apparent suicide of his friend, the NYPD Chief of Detectives. I can picture Tom Selleck as Moe Prager in the movie. The book keeps you interested and is easy to read. Look beyond the cover!
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| Linda |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Another good offering from the author of THE KITE RUNNER. After reading this book I am again and always thankful that I live in a country where I am free to go where I want and dress as I wish. This gave a very vivid description of life in Afghanistan.
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| Sandy |
| The Sleeping Doll by Jeffery Deaver |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the best books I have read in a long time!!! It's full of surprises and will be a great movie! I hope I have forgotten some of it if they make a movie so I won't know what happens next.
|
| Emily |
| The Septembers of Shiraz by Dalia Sofer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is Sofer's debut novel. It is beautifully written with very sensitive characterizations. It is a moving semi-autographical account of a family living in Iran two years after the religious revolution in 1981. It is a timely, riveting read.
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| Tony Banks (tbtb@hotmail.com) |
| The Envelope by Wilson Crawford |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
Interesting read that is Southern Regional fiction. I can't figure out what the message is behind this one or whether the author is just messing with our minds.
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| Calli |
| The Sharper Your Knife, the Less You Cry by Kathleen Flinn |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Thoroughly delicious! Flinn goes off to The Cordon Bleu in Paris after being dismissed from a corporate job and fulfills a life-long dream of attending the cooking school (and falling in love). Each chapter ends with a recipe! Better than HEAT or TENDER AT THE BONE. Romantic and inspiring.
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| Stacy |
| Journey by Danielle Steel |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
it was one of the best books I've seen in a while. Maddy was a really successful lady, who was so sad and pressured by her ungrateful, augmented husband who constantly treated her like if she was nothing of this world.
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| Stormbringer |
| The Herioin Diaries by Nikki Sixx |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
One of the most honest books on addiction i have ever read.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| She Went to War: The Rhonda Cornum Story by Rhonda Cornum |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A very good read. This is the story of Rhonda Cornum, an Army officer sent on a search-and-rescue mission in the Persian Gulf. Her plane was shot down and she was placed in a prison with two broken arms, a smashed knee and a bullet wound.
It was her job to keep other soldier's spirits up --- it also discusses myths about women in the military.
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| Genie |
| Inkheart by Cornelia Funke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Twelve-year-old Meggie always wondered why her father, a bookbinder, refuses to read to her. She remembers how much she used to enjoy hearing her father, Mo, read out loud to her when she was much younger. She soon gets an answer to her question when a stranger arrives at their front door late one night. It seems that Mo can literally bring fictional characters to life when he reads out loud. This talent causes Mo and Meggie to find themselves in the fight of their lives with evil villains who were originally characters in a book called INKHEART. Captured by Capricorn and his gang of dangerous thugs, Meggie must find a way to free herself and her father. In the process, she discovers what happened to her mother, who disappeared nine years ago during Mo's reading of INKHEART.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| Chain of Evidence by Gary Disher |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a riveting story set in Australia where a ring of pedophiles have kidnapped a young girl. It took her mother 2 days to report her missing. The criminal investigation unit is a mess --- corruption, deceit and ignoring a group of teens who willfully harm and injure people just for the fun of it. You will like this book.
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| Rosalie Leon |
| Orbit by John J. Nance |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
An exciting and well-paced thriller that I couldn't put down. It leaves you thinking about what would you do in his situation.
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| Judith Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
| World War Z by Max Brooks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I listened to the unabridged audio format of this book. What a wonderful cast of characters and it has to be the best zombie book ever!
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
| The Wooden Sea by Jonathan Carroll |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
This was a very odd book and not one I would normally pick up and read. I was captured by the humor and the idea of this very strange plot. Its unique qualities kept my interest. The story is about McCabe, who is a cop in the town where he grew up. He is on his second marriage to a woman he really loves and is step-father to Pauline. It was nice to see a good relationship between the step-parent and step-child for a change. One day a strange, crippled dog wanders into town and McCabe adopts him, only to see him die shortly after. This is the catalyst that triggers the start of a bunch of surrealistic events. I think I understood one of the lessons this book was trying to teach and that was, every part of your life is important and helps build you into the man or woman you will become. However, I think there was more to this book, a deeper meaning that I just didn’t get. And of course, the ending made me scratch my head and try and figure out all the loose ends. I can’t say I really loved this book but it was so odd, I know I will never forget it.
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| Bridget |
| The Sonnet Lover by Carol Goodman |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A good book about Literature professors, academics and their students. The quest is on to find proof of Shakespeare's dark lady. For some, it means big bucks with a Hollywood deal looming; for others, it's an affirmation. Long lost lovers reunite, teenage angst arises. Overall, this was very well written.
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| Kathleen |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I found this book to be profoundly sad at times, but I could not put it down. When I finished, I had a better understanding of the Afghani people and why our soldiers are so dedicated. I think this should be required reading for high school seniors because it is set in current times. I think this will have more impact on them than the books about the horrors of past wars. If this doesn't make them appreciate their country, nothing will.
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| Terressa Reep |
| On Agate Hill by Lee Smith |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I couldn't put this book down as I wanted to know what would happen next! Smith uses a unique format, a diary found in an attic that contains letters and journals. Chapters are told from different viewpoints. Excellent read.
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| Kathy |
| The Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
This book is not like her others. The story takes place between two different eras. Unfortunately, the plot is not anywhere near as good as those of her other books. I don't recommend this book to anyone who enjoys her books because I think they will be disappointed in it, as I have been. She should stick with what works, rather than trying something different. Finally, I saw no relationship between the book's title and the plot.
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| Lynn Clifford |
| The Hindi-Bindi Club by Monica Pradhan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A great book that explores the relationships between 3 daughters and their mothers trying to incorporate customs of their Indian homeland into their American lifestyles.
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| Karen |
| Tales of a Female Nomad by Rita Golden Gelman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Wonderful, wonderful account of a woman who, in her late 40s, embarks on an adventure of a lifetime. She really wants to be part of other cultures, to learn other languages and to live with and like those cultures. Her travels take her for extended periods of time to such places as Bali, Israel, New Zealand. This is different than EAT, PRAY, LOVE in that she already knows who she is and what she wants. This is not an internal journey or awakening. A good book for both sexes!!!
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| Bonnie |
| Gone, Baby, Gone by Dennis Lehane |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A mystery that keeps you guessing all the way. The minute you think it's solved, something else happens. I'll be looking forward to seeing how they handle the twists and turns in the movie.
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| Anna R. |
| The Reading Group by Elizabeth Noble |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A story about friendship between women. Also, a year's worth of books are listed, some of which I know nothing about. My book group loved it.
We have recently read some heavy and serious books so we were ready for something light. A great read.
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| Judy O. |
| Down River by John Hart |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a fascinating story about love, betrayal, and family secrets. The plot twists are numerous and the suspense is high. Don't miss this one by the author of THE KING OF LIES.
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| Fran |
| Cuba by Emily Barr |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
A woman descends into madness when she becomes obsessed with her neighbors and follows them to Cuba. Chick lit with a dark twist. Overall, an enjoyable read. I expected more about Cuba based on the title, but did not find much about it.
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| Trish Thomas |
| Dancing in the Streets: An Ode to Collective Joy by Barbara Ehrenreich |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
While I love all of her books I've read, I had more trouble finishing this one that the others. It's probably me and not her writing, as she is astute and entertaining, as well as having very well researched everything she writes about. This is about celebratory gatherings, starting in the Middle Ages in Western Europe. Her final thesis is that the rise of the incidence of depression in modern life may well be due to the discontinuance of Carnivale, maypole dances and other popular festivities. It's worth thinking about!
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| Connie |
| The Beach House by Mary Alice Monroe |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of the best books I have read in a long time. It is about a bond between mother and daughter. Caretta Rutledge thought she left her southern roots and troubled family far behind. She then receives a request from her mother to come home to tie up some loose ends. Returning home, she is able to reconnect with her mother and she learns life's most precious lesson of all. A bonus in this book is that you get to learn quite a bit about loggerhead turtles.
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| Mary Schreiner |
| Italian Lessons by Peter Pezzelli |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
I thought this was a very slow and uninteresting story. The characters were not well developed. The writing was adolescent. I would not recommend this book.
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| Sharon Lumb |
| Marguerite Burning by Elizabeth Inness-Brown |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A young man wakes up to find his Tante (aunt) dead. This is the beginning of a book that takes you through Tante's life and that of the young man whose actions culminate with Tante's death. Although a relatively short book, you cannot help but be grabbed by these characters and when the book is finished you know the young man and Tante better than a book three times as long.
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| Jennifer Hernandez |
| Everything Changes by Jonathan Tropper |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
It is an awesome book, full of laughter and profound insight. Though the last two chapters will make you teary, it is still a book that I will recommend very highly.
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| Priscilla |
| Widow of the South by Robert Hicks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I am only halfway through this book but so far, it has held my attention and I can't wait to read more. You will enjoy this story about Carrie (the Widow of the South) and others whose lives were touched by this troubled time.
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| Marjorie Clark (marjclark@comcast.net) |
| Heart-Shaped Box by Joe Hill |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
By the time I read halfway through this book, I found it to be very good. I read somewhere that this was Stephen King's son and when I looked at the back jacket, I could see by the photo it was true. He's a great writer, and this was good for his first book.
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| Wendy Catalano |
| Brimstone by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Non-stop action and suspense with evil thrown in for good measure. I couldn't put this book down and plan to read the rest of their novels.
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| Alison |
| The Woods by Harlan Coben |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I have read every one of Harlan Coben's novels. Not only do they have you on the edge of your seat, but you cannot put the books down even if you tried. THE WOODS is by far the best one. Coben knows how to add twists and turns, and by the end of the book my jaw was to the ground!
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| Connie |
| Compromising Positions by Vicki Lewis Thompson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Bodyguard Mick Farrell has a problem with Stacy Radcliffe --- she's spoiled rotten and very sexy. She comes from a very well-to-do family and he resents that. However, Stacy convinces him he needs her to start up his bodyguard businesss and Mick ends up hiring Stacy as his assistant when he finds out his first clinet turns out to be a former lover needing Micks services. He wants Stacy to guard his body against the former lover. This was a very good book that shows not everything is as it appears on the outside.
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| Connie |
| Full Bloom by Jayne Ann Krentz |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Emily Ravenscroft wants to take her life back from her domineering family and Jacob Stone. Jacob is the person who the Ravenscroft family employs to get Emily out of hot water all the time. However, Emily doesn't need Jacob to rescue her, but she needs him to love her. This is a quick, entertaining read.
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| Wendy Catalano |
| The Book Of Lost Things by John Connolly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I read this book twice, which is not something I normally do. It's an amazing story of a young boy's journey in another world. A spellbinging adult fairytale!
|
| Gale |
| No Time for Goodbye by Linwood Barclay |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Fourteen-year-old Cynthia Bigge wakes up one morning to find her mother, father and brother are gone. Did they choose to leave her behind because of her misbehavior the previous night? Are they dead? If so, why is she alive? Twenty-five years later, Cynthia is still searching for answers. Barclay's psychological thriller beautifully tracks her painful and disturbing progress.
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| Bonnie |
| Case Histories by Kate Atkinson |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
A Novel/mystery with lots of interesting characters, but not a book that will linger on after you've read it.
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| Sarah T |
| Sweetgrass by Mary Alice Monroe |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
This is the second time I've tried to read this novel. I felt bogged down the first time. June and Preston are wonderfully portrayed, but not gripping enough to come back right away for the next installment. I'd like to read another novel by Ms. Monroe for comparison.
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| Dorothy Olson |
| Purple Hibiscus by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful, thought-provoking book about a family in Nigeria and how they cope with "abuse". We think it only happens here in the USA.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| The Missing by Sarah Langan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Although this was an interesting read, I found it hard to stay with what was going on.
The story originates in Corpus Christi, Maine. There has been an environmental crisis that causes people to disappear, and transforms victims into something violent, hungry and inhuman. The whole town is affected --- people lock themselves in-doors.
If you like scary, unimaginable stories, this is one for you.
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| Margaret Olek Esler |
| Untold Stories by Alan Bennett |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Bennett is one of those under-the-radar great writers; he is most recently perhaps best known for his work, The History Boys, which is a runaway theatrical success, but Bennett has been writing wonderful works for many of his 70-plus years (including the recently published THE UNCOMMON READER. His collection, UNTOLD STORIES is a fascinating work that is mainly autobiographical but in a way that goes so far beyond Bennett's own experiences to those of the people and the world around him that each section could stand alone as a gripping short story. Most moving is Bennett's reflection on the shared life of his parents, including his mother's bouts with depression, his father's stubbornness, and his aunt's tragic death --- all told through the eyes of the boy who lived these experiences firsthand, with unflagging honesty and compassion and always Bennett's subtle but pointed humor. Many of the essays also describe the inspirations for Bennett's body of work, and although new fans may not always follow the line from what the author lived to what he wrote, those who know and love this writer's works will be thankful for the connections. Bennett's look back on his experiences and his sensitive yet straightforward analysis thereof is a joy to read, particularly when written in the author's always wonderful prose. "Untold Stories" makes the reader hope there are more stories untold left for Bennett to yet reveal.
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| D.L. Gillespie |
| You've Been Warned by James Patterson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
James Patterson has done it again with his newest psychological suspense novel! Kristin Burns is the nanny to an extremely wealthy family, the Turnbulls. She is struggling to become a famous photographer in the "Big Apple". However, forbidden passion is getting in the way. Kristin is not using her best judgment or even good common sense. This will keep you turning the pages to see what's next.
|
| Nicole |
| Naked by David Sedaris |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is extremely funny. It is composed of several short stories involving the author and his family. Sedaris touches on many different subjects, so odds are that at least one of them will strike a chord with the reader. I laughed out loud many times. This is great for some good laughter sessions.
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| L A Ramsen |
| Benjamin January Mysteries by Barbara Hambly |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I was introduced to this exceptional series through a forum. I've finished 6 of the 8 installments (the first is A FREE MAN OF COLOR). Why hasn't Oprah latched onto this series? I picture Adewale Akinnuoye-Agbaje (the late Mr. Eko of TV's "Lost") as Ben. An outstanding series with great characters, incredible atmosphere, intriguing mysteries --- especially for anyone interested in New Orleans history.
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| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Men May Come and Men May Go... by Gigi Anders |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
MEN MAY COME AND GO...BUT I'VE STILL GOT MY LITTLE PINK RAINCOAT is a very fun and cute memoir as told through clothes.
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| Karen Barash (kkbarash@aol.com) |
| The Birthdays by Heidi Pitlor |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
The novel revolves around a family reunion of siblings and their spouses to celebrate their father's seventh-fifth birthday. The author deftly depicts the interactions among family members.
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| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Knocked Up: Confessions of a Hip Mother-To-Be by Rebecca Eckler |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Bridget Jones for the pregnant set. I hate comparing everything to BRIDGET JONES'S DIARY, but so many of the memoirs/books I have been reading have based the outline of their story on it. This book follows the diary format and is really enjoyable. I quickly read it and enjoyed it.
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| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
| Kiki Strike by Kirsten Miller |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a young adult book geared towards girls aged 9 to 12. I think older girls (even REALLY older girls) would enjoy this as well. There is enough mystery and suspense to keep the pages turning and fun. This is a very adventurous read.
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| M. Blitz |
| Blood of the Fold by Terry Goodking |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A slow installment of the series, but a definite must read. I suggest that you don't wait too long between reading books in the series.
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| Sandi L. |
| Fatal Grace by Louise Penny |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I only have a few pages left but I have enjoyed reading this book. A woman not well liked is electrocuted during a curling contest in Three Pines, Canada. This is the follow-up Penny's first book, STILL LIFE. All the characters are back in this outing. I haven't figured out yet "whodunnit, which is unusual.
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| CJ Jones (ajones1021@comcast.net) |
| Into The Wild by Jon Krakauer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This book, published in 1997, will get some renewed interest because it has been made into a movie by Sean Penn. The author has always been one of my favorites because of his journalistic style. His topics range from mountain climbing to a strange series of murders, to this fascinating story of a young man who, in 1992, left the comforts of an affluent home in VA to see the US and all its native glory, w/ Alaska as his final destination.
The is one very grainy picture in the book of Chris McCandless, but when you finish this 207 pg book, you will feel you know him, have questions about his actions and feel profound sorrow for his family. You will be able to follow Chris in his travels, the people he befriends along the way, and a speculation about why he made the decision to follow his dream to "live off that land" in the Denali area of Alaska that led to his demise.
Woven throughout the book are excellent maps of his travels and quotes from the authors Chris McCandless idolized and emulated, plus some tales of legendary Ascetics such as John Muir & Ruess.
Krakauer first wrote about Chris McCandless in a feature for Outdoor magazine, which created a public outcry --- both positive and negative. So, with the co-operation of the McCandless family, a book was born. An interesting fact is that the movie rights were delayed by that same family.
I found my opinions and thoughts changing throughout the book. The death of Chris McCandless will always be a mystery, but this fabulous book will take you into his world --- Jon Krakauer is a master at doing this in a compelling manner.
This book is truly compelling and very hard to put down. It's one I re-read about every three years. Check it out at your library --- I guarantee you will be glad you did.
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| Jeanne Sheats (catslady5@aol.com) |
| The Measure of a Man by Sidney Poitier |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
He had a fascinating upbringing and it was a memoir well told. His philosophy on life was well thought out.
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| Kathy Chiocca |
| The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Wonderful, thought-provoking book recommended by a young Marine serving in Iraq. The book will probably have a different story to tell each person who reads it. Great book group discussion book.
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| jeanne sheats (catslady5@aol.com) |
| Running with Sissors by Augusten Burroughs |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
It was hard to believe this was a memoir. I thought it was a little on the strange side.
|
| nmc |
| Girls of a Tender Age by Mary-Ann Tirone Smith |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A memoir of growing up in Connectict in the 50s, woven with a topical murder that occurred at the time. A wonderful read! Love the details.
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| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
| A Thread of Grace by Mary Doria Russell |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
This book made me work way to hard to get through it. In a nutshell the book is about Jews escaping the Holocaust. Some are in Italy, and some are traveling there. I enjoyed some parts and found the history very interesting. I have always been intrigued by World War II and was interested in the part Italy played in this time in history. However, the novel is too choppy to follow, and the constant change of locations made it difficult to form any real attachment to the characters. Just when I was getting engrossed in the story line, Russell jumps to someplace else and we are on to another plot. Too many main plots all going on at once without enough pertinent information to connect them.
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| Ms Mimi Klein |
| How Starbucks Saved My Life by Michael Gates Gill |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
What a phenomenal read!! I originally thought this was fiction, that's how remarkable a story it is. Michael Gates Gill is a man to be admired.
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| Joan Woods (buckeye14@tampabay.rr.com) |
| Always A Thief by Kay Hooper |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the follow-up to ONCE A THIEF, full of mystery, romance and humor. I hated to put it down before getting to the end. It takes to the end of the book to know who the truly bad guy is.
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| Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com) |
| Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
If you've been fortunate enough to visit Venice, Italy and float below on a gondola under the Bridge of Sighs, don't miss Richard Russo's novel by the same name. The books action revolves around relationships among three families --- the Lynches, the Marconis and Bergs. Sexual betrayal, domestic violence, racial prejudice and emotional cruelty.... "discussble" issues galore for your book review club.
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| Susan C |
| Bones and Ashes by Kathy Reichs |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Another typical Kathy Reich story of forensic science. Sometimes too many scientific details make the story drag, but the plot is interesting.
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| Susan C |
| The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyami |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This story of World War II Japan was fascinating. It was interesting to read of the other perspective. Also interwoven with the lives of the people living through a tragic time is the history of sumo wrestling. I never realized how much ritual was tied into this sport.
|
| Nancy |
| Saving Fish From Drowning by Amy Tan |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This book was a little hard to get into in the beginning, but once the story got going, I was hooked. The narrator of the story, Bibi, has just died. She tells the story of a trip she arranged to China and Myanmar (Burma). Her friends take the trip without her and encounter various adventures and difficulties.
Amy Tan has some wonderful descriptions, interesting characters, and a setting that I didn't know much about. I found myself reading about Myanmar once I finished the book. There is suspense --- at the beginning of the book you are told that the travelers have disappeared, but you don't know how.
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| sprdhn (suv_pradhan@yahoo.com) |
| The Mountain Is Young by Han Suyin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is full of the drama of love in an ancient Asian city where mountains are still young. It's great.
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| Kathleen WW |
| Hitler's Niece by Ron Hansen |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
A disturbing, fictionalized account of Htler's niece, Geli, and her relationship with her much older uncle. By the same author whose book is the basis for the new Jesse James/ Brad Pitt movie, this is a sensual exploration into the world of Germany in the 20s and 30s. Those who "belong" to the Nazi party hardly understood their membership. Hitler is portrayed as a sadistic and evil man, selfish to the end. A sad and depressing read. I have no idea of how much of this story is true, but the speculation alone is heartbreaking.
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| Coral Harrison |
| Obession by Karen Robards |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A very good mystery about some bad guys in the CIA who cause our heroine to nearly get killed several times. I knew it had to turn out OK in the end, but was surprised how it did.
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| Jeanne Sheats (catslady5@aol.com) |
| The Five People You Meet in Heaven by Mitch Albom |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very original premise. It sounds like it's a religious type book, but it isn't. It most definitely makes you think and it stays with you.
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| Martha E |
| Bones to Ashes by Kathy Reichs |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I'm sure I will rate this 5 stars by the time I finish. I have read all of the Temperance Brennan novels --- thrillers presented from the view of a feisty forensic anthropologist working in North Carolina and Montreal. The science involved in crime investigation is always fascinating to me. In this series it is combined with human (flawed) characters and the up and down of professional and personal relationships, not to mention the suspense of solving past and present murders. This book clearly gives enough character background to be read out of series. However, I would recommend that a reader try to start at the beginning of this series and work forward. It is well worth it, as each book has its own mystery, but I think the interaction of the characters is better understood over time.
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| Bridget |
| The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
An interesting tale told from the point of view f Mary, Anne's sister, the other Boleyn girl. What strikes me most was how unscrupulous the Howard family was. They would do ANYTHING to further their own interests, even sacrificing their children to gain the king's favor and whatever power would come with it.
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| Bonnie B. |
| One Mississippi by Mark Childress |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
An excellent read! You see Mississippi life through the eyes of this seventeen-year-old boy from the deep south in the late 1960s-1970. The book is rich and charming. I loved it! It also brought back memories of the era to me. It was rich characterizations as well.
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| Martha |
| Headwind by John J. Nance |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This was my second John J. Nance read. It opened a little slowly for me, but once I got into it, I really liked this very interesting story. There are two good suspense storylines to keep it in fast-paced action. The political and international legal battle is to prevent a former US President from being served with an arrest warrant for extradition to Peru on allegations of violating a world treaty against torture. Meanwhile, the Boeing 737 pilot does his best to protect the ex-president while trying to find a safe place to land. The responses and reasonings of the characters add to my interest. My husband doesn't read, but he enjoyed the audio versions of this and THE LAST HOSTAGE by Nance.
|
| Pamela |
| Lottery by Patricia Wood |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
What a terrific book! You will fall in love with the central character! A wonderful young man, brought up by his grandmother, finds good friends and wins the lottery. His family takes advantage of his kind heart and slowness and manipulates him shamelessly. He loves life in spite of his experiences and has a wonderful attitude as well. This book will make you smile and cry and yell hooray. A must read!
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| Denise the Bookseller |
| The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This story, although dark, was fantastic and extremely well-written. It is about how a man made a spontaneous decision that thereafter affected the lives of many. I could barely put this book down and highly recommend it.
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| Denise the Bookseller |
| Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I adored this book! I thought it would be typical lightweight chick lit, but it was so much more. It was very well written with charming interesting characters. It touched my heart so that I actually cried during several parts, and the book lingered with me for a little while after I finished it. It is about a young very funny woman who finds love when and where she least expects it. I highly recommend it.
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| Denise the Bookseller |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This book, as well as THE KITE RUNNER, was probably the best book I have had the pleasure to read this year. I highly recommend both of them to men and women alike. A THOUSAND SPLENDID SUNS is a book you will not be able to put down. Hosseini's writing style is so very readable. It gives the reader a pure and honest view of the harsh lives of two average Afghani women. I highly recommend it.
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| Denise the Bookseller |
| But Inside I'm Screaming by Elizabeth Flock |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoyed this book...not as much as her surprising EMMA AND ME but definitely more than EVERYTHING MUST GO. Ms. Flock utilizes a lot of psychology in her writing, and I find her characters to be interesting people. This particular novel is about a journalist whose life had grown so out of control that she had a major breakdown on air and ended up in a mental hospital. It is a fast and interesting read.
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| Denise the Bookseller |
| The Center of Everything by Laura Moriarty |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book! The story is told in first person by a girl being raised by her controversial single mother. Her insight and viewpoint are so refreshing and honest! I loved this book so much that I went on to read Moriarty's newest arrival, FOR THE REST OF HER LIFE.
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| Denise the Bookseller |
| The Ha Ha by Dave King |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book. I am only sorry that I delayed in reading it for so long. It is about a man who sustained a severe brain injury which rendered him unable to speak, and his relationship with his former girlfriend's young son, as well as numerous other interesting characters. This book is full of humor, reality, compassion and love. I highly recommend it.
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| Lynn |
| The Worst Hard Time by Tim Egan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a non-fiction account of the Dust Bowl in the 1930s Midwest from oral interviews of those who lived through it, diaries, and other sources, Egan really makes the people and times come alive for us in this story. Although I thought I already knew a lot about the Dust Bowl story, I found that I learned a huge amount from this book. Today we can't imagine a living through a horror like this environmental disaster.
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| Carolyn Burnsides |
| Broken For You by Stephanie Kallos |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Wonderful story about how so many people from all different walks of life came together to become an extended family. They each found love and a meaningful cause.
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| Carolyn Burnsides |
| Glass Castle by Jennette Wall |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Unbelievable story. Our whole book club loved this great book. We wondered how much she didn't tell about her relationship with her father. It's amazing this family stay together.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| No Room at the Table by Donald H. Dunson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I was absolutely shocked when I read this book. Mr. Dunson tells stories of children from New Orleans to Sudan who are affected by sexual exploitation, hunger and poverty.
I was truly amazed by the numbers here in the US alone. How many times have you walked past a hungry person or a homeless person and ignored them?
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| Pat S. |
| Lord John & The Brotherhood of the Blade by Diana Gabaldon |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
I am trying to finish this book but keep setting it aside. Gabaldon seems fixated on Lord John's homosexual desires and it (to me) distracts from the story. Actually, I am about halfway through the book and still haven't decided what the story is suposed to be about..
I am sorry I wasted my money buying this book!
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| Debi |
| Woman in Red by Eileen Goudge |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
What a wonderful book!! It was so hard to put down! Ms. Goudge weaves a story about two families, their tragedies, and their loves. It is fast paced and well written. I wonder what happened to Yoshi?
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| Denise the Bookseller |
| For the Rest of Her Life by Laura Moriarty |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very well-written book; I loved it as much as THE CENTER OF EVERYTHING. The story is about a teenager who accidentally struck and killed another teen with her parents' car. The story is compelling as it makes the reader understand how a tragedy of this nature affects so many people in so many ways. It also delves into familial and parental relationships. I highly recommend it.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| Don't PeeonMy Leg and Tell Me It's Raining by Judge Judy Sheindlin |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a wonderful, funny and shocking account of Judge Judy's life on the bench. You can't imagine the excuses people come up with when they go to court. You learn about a teenage girl who was murdered on her way home from school by other girls for a pair of earrings. You have to read this!
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| Ozarks Anne |
| Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A real fun read. An apple tree is one of the main characters, actually throwing apples for various reasons. I thought the characters were great. The ending was fairly predictable but it doesn't detract from enjoying this quick read.
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| Fran |
| Save Karyn: One Woman's Journey to Debt and ba by Karyn Bosnak |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
A memoir of Karyn Bosnak, who shops her way into a $20,000 debt. To solve her problem, she starts the SaveKaryn.com website, where she solicits donations to help pay down her debt. I must admit it was cute. The beginning was reminiscent of the Shopaholic series. I enjoyed the writer's honesty and humor. This was a fun, lighthearted book, which was what I was looking to read right now.
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| Joan |
| Wheel of Darkness by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I wasn't sure I would like this book, but after the first few pages I was hooked! It is about a secret artifact stolen from a monastery in Tibet, and the FBI agent and his ward who go from Tibet to the ship Britannia in search of the killer/thief. Most of the action takes place on the maiden voyage of the ship, which adds to the excitement. I would highly recommend this book!
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| shmeyers |
| Down River by John Hart |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was as great as his first book, KING OF LIES! It was full of suspense and family relations! Great author! Highly recommended!
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| Pat S. |
| Gallows View by Peter Robinson |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I only just discovered this author and am really enjoying this first book in his series about Inspector Alan Banks, which takes place in Yorkshire. I will definitely be reading all the books in this series.
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| Linda |
| Angela's Ashes by Frank McCourt |
| Rating: 2 Stars |
This one took me forever to read. I could not get 'into' it. I have read memoirs before about having drunk fathers and dirt-poor childhoods. But this one just didn't capture my interest. I did finish it.
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| Linda |
| The Judge by Steve Martini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I love Martini's books. As always, this kept me in suspense 'til the end.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
| Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
At 10 years old, Enrique sets off for the United States to reunite with his mother, whom he hasn't seen in years. He rides train tops, is hungry, has no clothes or money. He attempted 7 times to get to the US fron Honduras. Finally, on the 8th time, he makes it.
Enrique, like other children trying to get to their mothers in the US, is beaten, robbed and deported. Over 1000 children a year attempt to cross into the US.
This was a great book that was easy to read. It made you laugh, cry and had you finally realize why people try to come into the US.
|
| Kevin |
| American Skin by Ken Bruen |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Bruen moves his noir to the States but doesn't miss a beat. At times brutal, at times funny, always insightful.
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| Rita Carter (gandmari@aol.com) |
| The Sleeping Doll by Jeffery Deaver |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A highly exciting book about the escape of a serial killer from prison, his followers, and the police who try to capture him.
|
| Carol |
| Mary: Mrs. A. Lincoln by Janis Cooke Newman |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful fictionalized account of Mary Todd Lincoln's life beginning with her commitment to an insane asylum, but also flashbacking over her entire life. This was vry entertaining as well as informative. A great read.
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| Kathy B (kboucher@cableone.net) |
| Broken For You by Stephanie Kallos |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is about how an elderly woman and a young girl pick up the pieces of their broken lives, and the "mending" of their pasts. A warm, wonderful read!
|
| Robin |
| Unwanted Company by Barbara Seranella |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Munch Mancini is one of the all-time most interesting characters in crime fiction. She's tough with a heart of gold.
|
| Robin |
| Run: A Novel by Douglas E. Winter |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I just finished this book. Wow...what a wild ride! I started the book and couldn't put it down until I'd finished it (at 4 A.M). If you like gritty crime novels this book is NOT to be missed.
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| Judy O. |
| Playing for Pizza by John Grisham |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
This was a good, light-hearted story, but it lacked character depth. I got very hungry reading about the various foods available in Italy, and we also were "treated" to descriptions of many of the old buildings in that area. It was a quick read, but was just okay.
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| Pat (pdplish@gmail.com) |
| Songs Without Words by Ann Packer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Another great book to read and recommend to your friends, especially those with teenagers. The dynamic between Sarabeth and Liz and the parallel events with Sarabeth and Lauren are really thought provoking. This is not only about a friendship between childhood friends, but also suicide --- a dark, yet popular theme lately.
Great book club book.
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| Michelle Watson |
| The Other Woman by Eric Jerome Dickey |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This was an excellent book that deals with the betrayal of marriage vows. A woman has to learn how to cope with hearing of her husband's infidelity. She also has to deal with real-world problems such as work, balancing friendship and the need for revenge. Overall, it's a good read, but I must say that I was a bit turned off by the numerous sex scenes. It was a bit unnecessary. But then again, this is one of the things that Eric Jerome Dickey is known for.
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| Lori Saporta |
| The Final Quest by Rick Joyner |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Not a New release,but a book I just came across. It was a good Christian read that keeps me motivated to change.
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| Sylvie Edwards (rsedwards@sympatico.ca) |
| Loving Frank by Nancy Horan |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was quite the summer for my reading. I stumbled upon this book and could not put it down for 2 days.
Everyone has heard or seen images of Frank Lloyd Wright houses, architecture projects, etc... But I am certain not a lot of people knew of his complex love affair with this woman for whom he built a house.
This woman would have been doing things that were shocking to anyone for her time and her choices were not the best, but her story is mesmerizing.
Please pick up this book and fall in love with a doomed love story.
|
| Pat |
| Away by Amy Bloom |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Truly a great book. All the hype is right and it does belong on the bestsellers' lists. This is an unusual way of telling the story of a Russian Jewish woman on a continent-wide journey to find her daughter. Many of the characters' loose ends are wrapped up immediately when they are at end of each act. I totally loved the book and have already given it to two of my friends, who also loved it.
|
| Darcy |
| Dark of the Moon by John Sandford |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
Sandford's writing never fails to please, whether he's presenting his story through Lucas Davenport or, as in this case, Virgil Flowers --- a detective working under Davenport's supervision. He once again delivers a mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.
|
| Ivy |
| Late, At The Bar by Rebecca Barry |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an absolutely charming story! While the background is sad. the characters are so real. It is one of the most sentimental books I have read in a while.
|
| Jeff |
| Playing for Pizza by John Grisham |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A fun read. A third-string NFL quarterback blows the championship game and ends up playing football in Parma, Italy. The book is full of wonderful descriptions of Italian life, food, and personalities.
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| Janis |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Kahled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
THE KITE RUNNER was one of my favorites, so I was prepared to be less impressed by Hosseini's new book. How wrong I was! Hosseini does an incredible job of telling the story of Afghanistan's last 30 years through the poignant perspectives of two female characters. I won't underestimate this author again!
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| Faith |
| Shantaram by Gregory David Roberts |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of the best written books I have read in a long time. You get to really know the characters in the novel, and the writing style is such that you can see the scenes he describes --- an excellent novel!
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| Eileen (eqkmath@gmail.com) |
| Bridge of Sighs by Richard Russo |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
A delightful family saga that shows the complexity, as well as the humor, of life. The characters are well developed and thoughtful people. he trip to Italy is one of the highlights of the book and the ongoing interactions that take place. A wonderfully Russian book!
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| Sylvie Edwards (rsedwards@sympatico.ca) |
| A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was the best book I've read this summer, and trust me, I read a lot of books.
You follow the lives of several women in Afghanistan through the ins and outs of the Taliban. The characters are so vivid on the page that it's as if you were living next door to them. This book made me cry countless times, but it also gave me hope for the human race --- hope that not all people are bad and that sometimes in adversity we find our biggest strengths.
This book is destined to become one of my biggest recommendations.
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| Audri Carr (audricarr@aol.com) |
| The Secret Servant by Daniel Silva |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Silva's spy thrillers are masterpieces of excitement and craftsmanship. Gabriel Allon his on-going character leads a public life as a renowned art restorer and a private life as an agent in the Israeli Special Forces. Silva is an adept author who maintains a high level of excitement and up-to-the-minute politics in all his books. Couldn't put it down.
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| DHall |
| The Secrets of a Fire King by Kim Edwards |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
THE SECRETS OF A FIRE KING is a collection of short stories from a Kentucky writer who made it to the #1 spot on the New York Times bestseller list with THE MEMORY KEEPER'S DAUGHTER. Edwards's short snippets weighed heavily on my mind, soul, or heart. Several of them weighted my mind, challenging my sense of order. Many of them touched my soul, causing me to question "why things are the way they are." Others tugged at my heart, with tales of passion and change. My favorite was "A Gleaming in the Darkness", a tale of Marie Curie and the lady who "cleaned" her laboratory; need I say more?
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| D Hall |
| An Ordinary Man by Paul Rusesabagina |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This book describes the extraordinary courage, wit and wisdom of the so-called "ordinary man," living/surviving a horrific period of our world's history --- the 1994 genocide of Rwanda. Even though Rusesabagina's story is not one for the weak of heart, it is one for us who take the lives we live for granted. This is a most inspirational, tragic, and fascinating story.
|
| Jeff |
| Italian Lessons by Peter Pezzelli |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
A recent college grad takes Italian lessons to take a trip to Italy to find a girl he met briefly and is sure is the one for him. This will make you want to take lessons and chart your own trip.
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| Donna Tanner |
| River, Cross My Heart by Breena Clarke |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
So far this isn't knocking my socks off, but I have a little more than half way to go. It was an Oprah recommendation some time back and I just picked up a copy. I'll come back and let you know if the rating jumped to a 5 for me! :)
|
| Christy |
| The Almost Moon by Alice Seabold |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
I was so disappointed in her novel. I loved THE LOVELY BONES and it was so unique. This book was worth then going to the dentist. I stuck through it and thought it would get better. It did not. Don't waste your time or money.
|
| Dorothy Floos |
| The Choice by Nicholas Sparks |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This was wonderful. A real love story that brought tears to my eyes. As are all of his books, it was a quick read because you don't want to put them down. Don't miss it.
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| Carole |
| Free Food for Millionaires by Min Jin Lee |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
I loved this book right up until it's ending. However, too many questions were left unanswered, and, while I don't require a happy ending, I do want a conclusion. This story had none! Maybe there will be a sequel!
|
| Lindy |
| Key of Light by Nora Roberts |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
Three women are experiencing the same life challenges. Mallory Price is about to be let go from her job as a Gallery Manager after the owner's wife wanted her job. Librarian Dana Steele's hours have been severely cut back and hairdresser Zoe McCourt wants her own shop.
The three receive an invitation to a party where they are offered the chance to find three keys for a deposit of 25,000 with a million if they are able to find all three.
|
| Linfy |
| You've Been Warned by James Patterson and Howard Roughan |
| Rating: 1 Stars |
The story starts with nanny and photographer Kristin Burns. Not your everyday nanny, she is in love with the boss's husband. She starts having frightening nightmares centering on a vision of four body bags being loaded onto gurneys in front of a prominent Manhattan hotel. They go on to include her father, and the pediatrician who abused her as a child. Is it a nightmare or is it real?
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| Debbie Le (deble_2000@yahoo.com) |
| A Simple Gift by Karyn Witmer |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I loved this book. Avery and Mike's only daughter leaves home to follow her boyfriend's dream of making it big in rock and roll. Fiona returns to her home town with baby in tow, and doesn't bother to tell her parents...they see her working in the checkout at their local grocery store. This book is about family, love, forgiveness and the power of moving on.
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| Sandra F. |
| The Lizard's Bite by David Hewson |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
Not your ordinary mystery. Set in Venice, this novel explores the depths of characters both evil and good.
|
| Jeremiah F Bulger |
| The Secret Cardinal by Tom Grace |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
I bought this book at Amazon based on the praise I read in your e-mail. It is an exciting thriller and I highly recommend it to all, not just those who may be Catholic.
|
| Bonnie |
| Any Place I Hang My Hat by Susan Isaacs |
| Rating: 3 Stars |
A novel about a young woman journalist who attempts to find the mother who walked out on her when she was an infant. Isaacs is a funny, gifted writer, but after loving several of her past works, this one left me lukewarm.
|
| Kathy |
| Secrets in the Attic by V. C. Andrews |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
The characters and plot are well developed. The story line concerns two young girls, best of friends, in a small town. As can be expected, events turn their friendship in different directions. The characters move into situations involving families and their histories and taboos, sexual abuse, murder, and death. The events at the end of the story had an unexpected twist, as the author set the stage for the follow-on novel.
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| Kathy |
| The Quickie by James Patterson & Michael Ledwidge |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a great book, definitely one of his best. The suspense and constantly changing plot kept me at the edge of my seat. You will never again act without wondering about the repercussions of what you do.
|
| Fran |
| The Tea Rose by Jennifer Donnelly |
| Rating: 4 Stars |
This novel has it all --- a little bit of romance, murder, mystery, a family saga and a loveable heroine. I had lots of fun reading this book and enjoyed every page. The only disappointment was that it had to end. I would highly recommend this book to all.
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| Ma Titwonky (matitwonky@gmail.com) |
| Bitter Is The New Black by Jen Lancaster |
| Rating: 5 Stars |
| Jen Lancaster had a great job pulling in a very good salary and had just received a promotion. Two days after she was promoted, she was told she was being laid off. So begins the story about how a smart, educated, good-at-her-job woman could not get another job to save her life or her car or her possessions. When he husband is also laid off, things go from bad to worse, and this could have been a maudlin story full of self-pity. Instead, it's a close up look at what it's like to keep dumbing down your expectations and your standards when your fate is decided by matters completely outside your control. This book made me angry, but more importantly, it made me laugh. Lancaster has a quick wit and very health |
