| Rose |
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A beautiful, vivid story of friendship and love between two young girls in China during the 19th century. They develop a bond that lasts a lifetime, through all their joys and tragedies.
Bravo, Lisa!
|
| Mitch (fourthwhite@yahoo.com) |
The Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Wow. I am still enjoying this book. I began it two days ago and just wish I had more time to read because I know I could have finished it very quickly. I have always loved Gerritsen's books, but this is such a change of pace for her. It reads just like the old Gothic thrillers I used to love reading when I was much younger. It was very much like Daphne duMaurier in feel, with so much atmosphere. I cannot recommend it highly enough!!
|
| Bonnie |
The Zero Game by Brad Meltzer |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Fast-paced suspense thriller that reveals the inner workings of Washington, D. C. It kept me guessing til the end.
|
| Metalfiend (metalfiend11@yahoo.com) |
The Heroin Diaries by Nikki Sixx with Ian Gittins |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very interesting book about the life of an addicted rock star. I was truly shocked by some of the things he did. It's hard to believe what drugs can do to people. This book may be hard for some people to read, but it's reality for so many who have fallen victim, and for their families.
|
| Maureen H |
Creation In Death by J. D. Robb |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I was fortunate to receive an advanced copy from bookreporter.com and this was another great installment in the Eve Dallas and Rourke mysteries. The mystery is about a killer that Eve has seen before, who is dubbed the "Groom" by the media. Eve and her partner Feeney feel deeply about the recent rash of killings because they were not able to catch him nine years ago. Rourke is brought along for the ride due to the fact that he has employed the recent victim. It was another satisfying addition to a great series.
|
| Alice |
Lottery by Patricia Wood |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Funny, uplifting story about a mentally challenged man who wins the lottery after his grandmother dies. Outstanding book.
|
| Heather |
The Rest of Her Life by Laura Moriarty |
Rating: 1 Stars |
This book had a lot of potential, but fell short of my expectations. The plot is great, but instead of focusing around the accident itself, it revolves more on a daughter/mother present and past relationship. I wouldn't recommend this book to my book club. I don't see it causing a great discussion.
|
| Marsha |
Friend of the Devil by Peter Robinson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A first-rate addictive book featuring Alan Banks. If you love police procedurals, try this series. Robinson engages you quickly and never lets the suspense waver.
|
| Lori S |
Dark Lover by J. R. Ward |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Laurell K. Hamilton's Anita Blake series got me hooked, so every once in a while, I have to check out another author. This is the first book in Ward's series and is very good. It is not as dark and complex as Hamilton's, but it dwells more on the romanticism of nearly star-crossed lovers, and acceptance. Of course, the tall, dark, and handsome leading man doesn't hurt. If you are interested in a romantic saga with a twist, you should give this a try.
|
| Kathy |
The Thirteenth Tale by Diane Setterfield |
Rating: 5 Stars |
i really liked this book. It was very well written, with great imagery and a good story.
|
| Kathy |
Don't Look Back by Karin Fossum |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the best of the mystery genre I've read in a long time. The story and the characters stay with you.
|
| Kathy |
Mozart's Sister by Rita Charbonnier |
Rating: 3 Stars |
i wanted to like this book because thought the premise was great. But, it was overly dramatic and honestly, quite boring.
|
| Kathy |
The Pirate's Daughter by Margaret Cezair-Thompson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I really enjoyed this book. It made me want to jump on the next plane to Jamaica. It was very well written and the author did a great job of instilling a sense of both time and place.
|
| Kathy |
Ghostwalk by Rebecca Stott |
Rating: 1 Stars |
UGH, painful! This is nothing to recommend --- it was poorly written, trite, and the characters' actions make no sense.
|
| Kathy |
What the Dead Know by Laura Lippman |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great story that keeps you guessing. Lippman strays from her main character, Tess , with great success.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
In For The Kill by John Lutz |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An exciting thriller about a serial killer, his victims, and the cops pursuing him. It's very much like the Japanese novel OUT, about the methodical dIsposal of bodies.
|
| Paula |
Mad Dash by Patricia Gaffney |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Who would think that an abandoned, shivering puppy left on a doorstep would initiate the breakup of a twenty-year marriage? This hearfelt story is told with humor and compassion. It is hard to put down.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
The Glass Castle by Jeanette Walls |
Rating: 5 Stars |
After reading this book, I really appreciate my childhood. My parents were responsible --- they gave us food, water and shelter and they took care of us in every way. They put themselves before us. You can not say this about Jeanette’s parents. Yet, when I sat down and made a list of the good and bad things about Jeanette’s childhood, the good list was almost as long as the bad.
First, the bad list: Her parents were irresponsible, the father was a drunk, the father stole from his own children, the parents did not provide for them, their priorities were mixed up, thye were selfish, they ran from the law.
Now, the good list: The kids' circumstances taught them how to be independent, they learned to appreciate the smallest and simplest things, they were strong and had the will to survive, they were encouraged to read and were taught many interesting things, they became creative and learned to make things from nothing, their Mom was a free spirit and tried to show the positive side in everything, and finally, the kids leaned on each other and became each other’s friends and support (with maybe the exception of Maureen).
This was an excellent memoir. I could not put it down. I will probably be thinking about this book for a long time to come. I am surprised Jeanette and her siblings survived their childhood as well as they did. I am not sure I could.
|
| Lorna |
Oh My Stars by Lorna Landvik |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A nice heartwarming story that takes place during the Depression about a young women who has half her arm cut off while working in a factory, and then what transpires after that. She leaves home and meets up with a couple of musicians, and the story takes off from there. At times, it will make you cry, smile and laugh. Just a nice story you shouldn't miss.
|
| Judith Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Painting the Invisible Man by Rita Schiano |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Have you ever read a book that left you so full of emotion that you found it hard to discuss its contents? It’s not often a book renders me searching for words that adequately express my feelings, but PAINTING THE INVISIBLE MAN has done just that.
Most novels I’d describe as easy-breezy reads. I enjoy them, love to discuss them, and then want to move on. But Rita Schiano’s book touched me in a place I rarely disclose to the public.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
The Almost Moon: A Novel by Alice Sebold |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I am so confused about the ending of this book. Was this book written after the "Sopranos" finale aired? I just love Sebold's writing, though.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
The Words of Every Song: A Novel by Liz Moore |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great read, told by several different points of view. Each chapter is narrated by a different, interlinking character.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
An Arsonist's Guide to Writers' Homes... by Brock Clarke |
Rating: 4 Stars |
AN ARSONIST'S GUIDE TO WRITERS' HOMES IN NEW ENGLAND is a very solid and funny book full of off-kilter characters. The writing will be appreciated by those who love word play and wanted to be English teachers.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Tithe: A Modern Faerie Tale by Holly Black |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Good page turner. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone under 14, though it is marketed as a young adult book. There are sexual situations and drug references.
|
| Mary in HB (mljacobsinhb@msn.com) |
Jennifer Scales and the Messenger of Light (A Jenn by MaryJanice Davidson and Anthony Alongi |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another wonderful series from MaryJanice Dickinson. It's also a great positive message for teens.
|
| Becky Cruz (ABamaBecky@aol.com) |
The Hunt by Allison Brennan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This 2nd book in this series is great, and this author is quickly becoming a favorite.
Twelve years ago, Miranda Moore survived the torture of a serial killer who was never caught. Since then, she has had FBI training and is now a member of the local search-and-rescue squad. She has witnessed the recovery of the mutilated bodies of seven women, all victims of her tormentor, known as The Butcher. When another Montana college student goes missing, the Feds get involved, and an agent that Miranda once trusted with her heart arrives to take over the investigation. Now, she must face her demons while caught in a race against time to find the missing girl.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Drenched in Light by Lisa Wingate |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very interesting book about relationships, private schools, children, foster care, eating disorders, and drugs. This is the first time I have read Lisa Wingate and intend to read more by this author. The light mention of religion was a very nice touch.
|
| Louise |
Betrayal in Blood by Michael Benson |
Rating: 2 Stars |
Since I enjoy true crime stories, I expected to like this book, but after 120 pages, I just couldn't bring myself to finish. It feels like I have to force myself to sit down and read.
BETRAYAL IN BLOOD is about the murder of Tabatha Bryant of Rochester, NY. From the get-go (front cover), the reader already knows what the crime was, who the victim was, and who the perpetrators were. The details of the above just aren't all that interesting.
In the future, I believe I will stick to Ann Rule.
|
| Rachel |
Family Acts by Louise Shaffer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is Louise Shaffer's third book, and the characters are wonderful. The two main characters, with Shakespearian names, live on opposite coasts and have never met. Life takes an unpredictable turn for these two strangers when they jointly inherit the century-old Venable Opera House, a stately but run-down theater in small-town Georgia.
This is a good read for book clubs!
|
| Debbie Whittemore |
High Crimes by Michael Kodas |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A fascinating account of what it is like to climb Mt. Everest in today's climate of greed, fraud, theft, and violence. Not only are climbers at the mercy of the mountain, they are at the mercy of their own teammates and other climbers.
|
| Laura Guillory (LAURA.GUILLORY@INTERTEK.COM) |
Christine Falls by Benjamin Black and John Banville |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This audiobook is read by Timothy Dalton, which makes it quite interesting. It's set in 1950s London and is full of twists and turns.
|
| Juanita |
And You Know You Should Be Glad by Bob Greene |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a wonderful book. It's sad, yes; but it's also much more than that --- it's very enlightening. I'm sure I will always remember parts of this book. Plus it is about my generation!
|
| Steve (steveplank@aol.com) |
A Tourist in the Yucatan by James McNay Brumfeld |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I just finished this cult classic thriller, and what a fun read! This is a story about a couple of gringos who get in mucho big trouble while traveling down Mexico way. Great action and adventure are both wrapped in the mysterious Mayan culture. Highly recommended!
|
| Anita Nowak |
The Other Boleyn Girl by Philippa Gregory |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a wonderful novel mixed with fiction and the history of England during the 16th century. It was a great story, and very hard to put down. Even though it was long (over 600 pages), it never got dull or boring. I am looking forward to reading more books by this wonderful author.
|
| Paula |
The Night Gardener by George Pelecanos |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very compelling novel set in Washington D. C. about three policemen who have different views of their role in law enforcement. After decades, a disturbing murder reunites them and they must face their anger and regret with a sense of purpose. The characters are well developed and the plot is well designed.
|
| Fran |
The Queen's Fool by Philippa Gregory |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was my first experience with a Philippa Gregory book and I must admit that I was impressed. I enjoyed the character Hannah, the fool, who was caught between the rivalry of Queen Mary and her sister, Elizabeth.
|
| Quinn (eqkmath@gmail.com) |
Skipping Christmas by John Grisham |
Rating: 4 Stars |
What a delightful book about wonderful people! The relationships that were established were funny and joy filled. It is a great holiday treat for all that makes you want to stop and reflect on all the good feelings and forget things!
|
| Judith Kobler |
Skinned by Joanne Clarey |
Rating: 5 Stars |
SKINNED is a chilling, fast-paced thriller that features a unique female protagonist, Dr.Christie McMorrow --- a forensic psychologist who is experiencing post-traumatic stress disorder. She returns to work to help her recovery and ends up in an investigation of the deaths of three young women who were found frozen, skinned and missing body parts. She and detective Bill Drummond encounter many scary obstacles on their way to indict the traffickers. This thriller is the sequel to Clarey's thriller TWISTED TRUTH, but can be read alone.
|
| Diane Dubay (monysmom@comcast.net) |
Wicked by Gregory Maguire |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I LOVED this and didn't expect to --- I love the way he weaves current issues into a remaking of the WIZARD OF OZ story and gives a whole new background to all the characters! I couldn't put it down and it made me want to go out and get ALL his books, and buy this for everyone for Christmas!
|
| Liz Saure |
The Reincarnationist by M. J. Rose |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This original book had me rethinking my concept of organized religions of the world. REALLY original. A book that's hard to put down.
|
| Cammie |
Abundance by Sena Jeter Naslund |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you want to read a little more about Marie Antoinette than you've read in history books, this is a book for you. It is a novel, but it gives one a view of what it was like to live as a Royal, and how Marie Antoinette went from being adored as the Queen to being reviled and ultimately beheaded as was her husband, Louis XVI during the French Revolution. Even though Naslund is very flowery and descriptive in her writing, it is a very interesting book to read.
|
| Rita |
The Road by Cormac McCarthy |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This is really a depressing book. It concerns father-and-son survivors after some horrible event has destroyed the world. Though their travels are somewhat interesting, I cannot really recommend somethingthat has no hope in it. There is love, but no hope.
|
| Lea Ann in Seattle (baxtergr@msn.com) |
The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by Gail Tsukiyama |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the finest books of fiction that I have read for some time. The story takes place in Japan between 1939 and 1966. The two main characters are two young boys whose parents drown while on an evening outing. The boys had been left in the care of their maternal grandparents, who raise them after the accident. The war is somewhat of an incidental character in the book as we watch the two become young men and then full-fledged adults. The written language is beautifully done, the story gripping; all in all, a book well worth the team devoted to reading it.
|
| John Dallal |
Downtown by Pete Hamill |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Having been a New Yorker over sixty years, this book deeply touched my heart, being written by a man with much insight, pride, and love regarding a city I've known, and loved, for so long. For anyone wishing to have a better appreciation for such a
wonderfully diverse and colorful city, I think you'll find DOWNTOWN a lovely ride.
|
| Judy O. |
Creation in Death by J. D. Robb |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I had the opportunity to preview this book, and I'm glad I did. It's an extremely detailed police procedural about Lieutenant Eve Dallas of the NYPD. She is trying to find a serial killer of young women, but she seems to be a target of the murderer herself. It looks like there are over 25 books in this series, but she is a new author to me.
|
| Terressa |
On Agate Hill by Lee Smith |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is so intriguing as Smith writes from the perspective of many characters, some in narrative, some in letters, and some in diaries. Parts of the book are written in flashback and others in current time. A fascinating tale of hardship, love, tragedy and joy.
|
| Gina |
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read this book warily at first, but then
felt like I was with a friend on a life-changing adventure. Some parts are slow --- the
mantras in India, for example --- but the philosophical insights are worth the wait.
|
| Coral Harrison |
Dead Heat by Dick & Felix Francis |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another good book by Dick Francis, this time, assisted by his son Felix who helped with details and research. Naturally, this book is about horse racing, but also about a man who is a chef; race owners go to his restaurant and he caters an event where there is a bomb, and one of his help is killed. He meets his girlfriend who plays a viola. A good mystery and love story.
|
| Gloria Sexton |
Chronicles of the Host: Exile of Lucifer by D. Brian Shafer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
For anyone that likes Christian fiction; this is a must read! A wonderful book that really makes you think!!!
This gives you a glimpse into what if the creation of the world happened like this. This is book#1 in a 4 part series.
|
| Laurie Blum (laurieblum@hotmail.com) |
The Flamenco Academy by Sarah Bird |
Rating: 3 Stars |
If you would like to read a lovely novel which emphasizes the act of flamenco, Gypsy culture and Spanish history, Sara Bird's THE FLAMENCO ACADEMY would be perfect for your book review club --- a different and interesting adventure.
|
| Phyllis |
Jack's Widow by Eve Pollard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An interesting twist on Jackie Kennedy's life after the death of Jack. A delightful mesh of facts and fiction.
|
| Lorinda |
The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros |
Rating: 4 Stars |
My book club is reading this story about a year in the life of 12-year-old Esperanza, her crowded Latino neighborhood in Chicago's poor area, and segregation. This story made me laugh but yet, in the words from the ugly stories, you could hear Esperanza's own voice through the negative experiences.
|
| Sandi |
World Without End by Ken Follett |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I have not finished this yet but it is superb. Just as good as PILLOWS OF THE EARTH. This historical fiction takes place in the 1300s right before the Black Death. The descendants of many of the characters in PILLARS OF THE EARTH are here. Mr. Follett really knows how to write a story. I love it.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Snow Flower and the Secret Fan by Lisa See |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The story is about Lily and Snow Flower, who are paired as laotongs and use nu shu, a unique language that Chinese women created to communicate in secret. The story takes their friendship from the beginning of the laotong pairing to the winter of their lives. See weaves the history of the time in with the novel, which makes the story even more intriguing. This was a very unique and interesting read. I have always thought Chinese culture was very mysterious. I think Lisa See revealed some of the ambiguity of very traditional and very unusual customs, like foot binding. This practice was absolutely fascinating to read about. I immediately went to the internet to see if there were any pictures to show what this looked liked. I am still haunted by this idea. This book has left quite an impression on me and I will be recommending it to all my reader friends.
|
| Julie Towson |
The Broker by John Grisham |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The story takes place mostly in northern Italy. Grisham really delves into the customs, sights and sounds of Italy. It has the great Grisham ending as well.
|
| Richard Bartels |
Power of the Sword by Wilbur Smith |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Smith is a fine writer with a wide command of many subjects. His adventure writing is among the very best. This book deals with South Africa from about World War I through the start of World War II. He captures the political situation --- the conflicting feels Pro-England vs Pro-Germany --- and also educates the reader about the fishing industry, gold and diamond mining. I highly recommend this author!
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
When Dad Killed Mom by Julius Lester |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Jeremy and Jenna struggle to come to terms with the fact that their father shot their mother. Powerful, emotional and yet simple. A very good book.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
A Change of Heart by Philip Gulley |
Rating: 3 Stars |
It does my heart good to read these books. This is more from the village of Harmony and its inhabitants --- forgiveness and tolerance, family and love.
|
| Vikki (vikkivand@aol.com) |
Songs Without Words by Ann Packer |
Rating: 1 Stars |
I loved THE DIVE FROM CLAUSEN'S PIER and looked forward to this book, but I was disappointed. After getting through to page 184, I just couldn't continue anymore. I was not enjoying this. Sorry.
|
| Louise |
Forgiving by LaVyrle Spencer |
Rating: 4 Stars |
In true LaVyrle Spencer fashion, this is another story of warmth, forgiveness and other human emotions, and like most of the others I've read, set in 1800s America.
With rare courage and fortitude, Sarah Merritt travels alone to set up business in Dakota territory. Will she find her long-lost sister and be able to bring her back to the family fold? Will she find success, and even love? Not without a few hardships and trials in the process.
|
| Janet Stewart |
Clapton: The Autobiography by Eric Clapton |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I just started reading this phenomenal rock legend's autobiography, but I'm sure I'm going to love it.
|
| Carol (carford@aol.com) |
Critical by Robin Cook |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Somewhat slow moving, hence the reason for the 4-star rating. But, it is still interesting.
|
| Kristina S. Dickinson (ksdickinson@hotmail.com) |
Prisoner of Tehran by Marina Nemat |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A terrifyingly real account of a teenager in Tehran who was imprisoned for refusing to name classmates and friends as anti-government protesters. This story tells of her struggles to survive during and after her imprisonment and how she came to the US with her high school sweetheart to begin a new life of freedom. Its an excellent book and I highly recommend it to everyone.
|
| F Tessa Bartels |
Julie and Romeo by Jeanne Ray |
Rating: 3 Stars |
An absolutely delightful love story with a twist on Shakespeare's tragedy. Julie Roseman falls for Romeo Cacciamani though their families are sworn enemies and rival florists.
|
| Mary |
The Grave Tattoo by Val McDermid |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a book so full of surprises that I couldn't put it down. Gangs in London, envy and espionage in the academic world, William Wordsworth and Fletcher Christian, a bog man and those "grave tattoos" --- it's all here.
|
| Linda M |
Summer by Karen Kingsbury |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very good book. Just keep the tissues handy.
|
| Karen |
Case Histories by Kate Atkinson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a literary thriller that keeps you guessing. It starts out with three case histories of murder cases that have gone cold. The author deftly intertwines these stories into the solution of the cases.
|
| J. J. Farris |
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book, about a young autistic boy whose parents are getting a divorce and the way he deals with the changes he must face, is a real page-turner. I read this book, which is not a long one, in one sitting because I could not find a good place to stop!
|
| Mary |
Loving Will Shakespeare by Carolyn Meyer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A unique look at life in Shakespeare's England --- everyday life in the country, not in London. The characters are vivid and the simple details make the story very real. Women's status, or lack of status, and the timeless theme of young love combine in this book.
|
| Mary |
Peony In Love by Lisa See |
Rating: 5 Stars |
By the author of SNOW FLOWER AND THE SECRET FAN, this is another glimpse of the life and afterlife of women in China. It will resonate with mothers of daughters of any race. A great read!
|
| Sally |
A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Excellent book following the author's success with THE KITE RUNNER. This gave incredible insight into life in Afghanistan during this period of time. Heartbreaking.
|
| Joan |
Consent to Kill by Vince Flynn |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the second book I have read by Vince Flynn and I was not disappointed. If you are fascinated by what goes on in the world of espionage, then these books are for you! Mitch Rapp is a well-known counter terrorist with a price is on his head. A very intriguing book, well worth reading.
|
| Carolyn |
A Woman in Jerusalem by A. B. Yehoshua |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A woman is killed by a suicide bombing and nobody comes to claim the body. A news reporter gets wind of this and accuses the employer of not caring about its workers. How far will the employer go to make sure the body is delivered to the rightful survivor/s? The ending will surprise the reader. (I would give this book 4.5 stars but had to choose between 4 or 5 in the menu.)
|
| Louise Pledge (LouBabe@juno.com) |
Guilty as Sin by Tami Hoag |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The conclusion to the mystery of the child kidnapper started in NIGHT SINS. Or is it (the conclusion)? The surprising twist at the end leaves open the possibility of yet another "chapter" to the story.
Highly recommended, but not without reading both books.
|
| Carole |
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is a little slow to get into, but it really kept my interest. It is about Elizabeth's search for her true identity after a divorce, which takes her across Italy, India and Indonesia. Recommended.
|
| Ozarks Anne |
The Quickie by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I've only had this book two days and am more than half way through. I keep getting shocking surprises --- nothing you'd ever guess. I also like Patterson's works because of the short chapters. This, of course, makes you read just one more, then just one more. I will stop here and get back to reading. You'll think you might know what's going to happen next, but you sure won't!!
|
| ck |
Mayflower by Nathaniel Philbrick |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Most of the early troubles concerning the right to worship and ill treatment in England and Holland of those who sailed on the Mayflower have been documented frequently. However, my impression of the natives was sadly influenced by those early childhood versions of Squanto putting a fish into the hole the with corn and the wonderful feast of Thanksgiving where the Indians and Pilgrims ate and played games.
Philbrick has swept away the myths with his superb documentary of the hardships, manipulation and mean spirits of many of the "English" and the natives in and around Plymouth and Boston. The last half of the book is devoted to the bitter racial tension that preceded the ugly showdown known as King Philip's War.
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, now is a good time to make a fire in the fireplace, curl up on the couch and enjoy the fascinating history of the first 50 to 60 years of the the area that became Massachusetts.
|
| Linda Pinto |
The Epidemic: A Global History of AIDS by Jonathan Engel |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is an interesting and still timely history of the international AIDS epidemic. I know that for many, AIDS in developed countries is a serious but almost chronic disease. But, this book brings home the fact that the disease is still devastating in Africa and parts of Asia. It is not light reading but then the subject is serious too.
|
| Linda M |
Playing for Pizza by John Grisham |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fun book to read. This was written in a different genre for Grisham, but it was still enjoyable.
|
| l ann |
How to Shovel Manure by Gwen Peterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Summer is not my favorite time of year for reading. You know, too much outdoor time. This book is meant for people who are busy, as one can pick it up and become enchanted by the stories, recipes, poems, and even pictures for a few minutes at a time. Montana cowgirl wisdom is great for all.
|
| Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very original story of World War II and Germany. The family is wonderful and their struggles during the war are very realistically portrayed. I highly recommend this book.
|
| Mark Deaver |
Derrick Sweat, Midwest Deep Freeze by George Wilder Jr. |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is gripping, a page turner, it's filled with more twists and turns. I highly recommend this piece of work. Mr. Wilder is truly on his way. The blues has returned.
|
| Mark Deaver |
Raw Deception by George Wilder Jr. |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book is well written and the pace is smooth. The writer knew his subjects well. It's spellbinding, as I found myself turning each page. A must read for everyone.
|
| Mark Deaver |
Derrick Sweat Sings The Blues by George Wilder Jr. |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a very compelling story --- a story the reader can feel and grow to understand. It's a crime story that could be out of today's headlines. A great addition to the fiction reader's bookshelf.
|
| Gale |
Last Known Victim by Erica Spindler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Spindler's return to post-Katrina New Orleans features familiar characters searching for a serial killer known as The Handyman. LAST KNOWN VICTIM is an enjoyable read, enhanced by Spindler's great appreciation for this unique city.
|
| Peter |
The Mess They Made by Gwynne Dyer |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is about the invasion of Iraq and how it will change the Middle East forever. A reasoned and well-researched book and an astute analysis of the consequences of the war by a military expert.
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| E.Quinn (eqkmath@gmail.com) |
Songs Without Words by Ann Packer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a real psychological novel. The friendship started in childhood are somehow stretched and challenged decades later. It is interesting to see the facets of life that change and what people do to cope with that change.
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| Tamara Randi |
Enrique's Journey by Sonia Nazario |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The first third of this book was very hard to read, and then it got easier. It is the tragic true story of thousands of young children trying to get into the United States from across the southern borders. They ride on the tops of trains coming north to find their mothers. It is about their flight as they are hunted like animals by gangsters, corrupt cops and bandits.
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| Gale |
Pandora's Daughter by Iris Johansen |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Johansen offers a paranormal twist in her latest romantic suspense novel. Physician Megan Blair hears voices, a "gift" she inherited from her murdered mother. There are numerous plot twists that stretch the limits of belief, but all in all, PANDORA'S DAUGHTER is a fun book.
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| Tamara Randi (sewradical@ncws.com) |
Frankie's Place: A Love Story by Jim Sterba |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A fun memoir about living on Bar Harbor for a summer. It is about the love of a woman, the love of the cottage, the love of food and the love of the island.
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| Christy Hawkes |
The Kitchen Witch by Annette Blair |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was such a great book! It has everything that I want in a romantic comedy with a fun plot and wonderful, warm, and caring characters that I fell in love with. I never wanted to stop reading. I've already purchased the next two books in Ms. Blair's series.
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| Robin Coker (hillcoker@yahoo.com) |
Phone In the Fridge by Lorna J. Moorhead |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book will not interest you unless you have multiple sclerosis or live with someone who does. I have MS so found this to be very enjoyable. It takes a humorous look at how those of us with MS survive day to day --- how we misplace things, even words in our sentences can be misplaced. It also talks about the struggles that we have. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has this disease. Moorhead's other book is called COFFEE IN MY CEREAL, and don't think she has written any others.
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| Lew |
Tripwire by Lee Child |
Rating: 4 Stars |
An exciting Jack Reacher adventure that keeps you guessing until the end.
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| Christy Hawkes |
Practical Magic by Alice Hoffman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first novel of Ms. Hoffman's that I've read and I thought it was wonderful. It was an easy read, filled with with humor and beautiful descriptions. The characters were believable and lovable and the story of the two sisters, Gillian and Sally, was absolutely magical and delightful. Overall, this was a nicely written book that I would highly recommend.
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| Carol H. |
On Chesil Beach by Ian McEwan |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book begins on Edward and Florence's wedding night, and how it defines their marriage.
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| Linda M. Johnson |
Strip Tease by Carl Hiaasen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I'm continuing on my course of reading all of Hiaasen's books. In my mind, he never disappoints. In this book, Erin is a single mother who takes a job as an "exotic dancer" to support herself and her daughter. Unfortunately, her ex-husband gains custody because the judge overseeing the case is a Born-again Christian. Hiaasen knows how to write a hilarious book.
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| Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com) |
Sisters of the Heart by Chitra Divakaruni |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful story of 2 girls in India. They are cousins, but live in the same house. Both fathers are dead.
This is their story of growing up with many mothers. It is about arranged marriages, plus other trials and tribulations of young Indian girls.
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| Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com) |
The Vines of Desire by Chitra Divakaruni |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This sequel to the book SISTERS OF THE HEART follows Anju and Sudha from India to America and the problems they have adapting to a new society. I highly recommend both books.
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| Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com) |
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A story of two sisters who live with the memory of their mother leaving them, and the way it challenged their lives.
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| Rosalie Sambuco (tigersmama43213@aol.com) |
The Hindi-Bindi Club by Monica Pradhan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A wonderful story of three Indian ladies who come to America with their husbands. They each have a daughter and become friends forever. This story is the interaction of the 3 mothers and their daughters plus the 3 daughters with each other. A pleasure to read.
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| Dodalodle from Beautiful British Columbia |
Woman In Red by Eileen Goudge |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a mesmerizing story about love and survival that weaves the past with the present. Alice Kessler spends nine years in prison for the "attempted murder" of a drunk driver who killed her oldest son. When she returns home to Gray Island, she has to start a new life as a divorcee and gets to know her youngest son, who is now a rebellious teenager. She meets Colin McGinty, a recovering alcoholic and widower. He also has just returned to Gray Island as he has inherited his grandfather's home. Colin's grandfather was a famous artist who painted a portrait of a "woman in red" --- this portrait just so happened to be Alice's grandmother. Alice and Colin are drawn to each other and discover secrets that connect both their families. This is a very enjoyable read and once I started it, was hard to put down.
FYI to "Debi", who also did a review on this book and ended her review with " I wonder what happened to Yoshi?" If you read the book then you should know that Yoshi was Mr. Yamamoto, the highest bidder at the auction house who bought "The Woman In Red."
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| Linda Bass |
Alaskan Magic by Carol McPhee |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Amanda is a 52-year-old woman whose 23-year marriage died when Harold took his assets from his bankrupted airline and flew to Cancun with his 21-year-old lover, leaving her broke. She flies to Alaska to meet her dead mom's twin and tries to put her life back together.
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| Julie |
Big Bad Wolf by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This author just keeps putting out great mystery novels --- this is one of the best!
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| Kate (melydia@hotmail.com) |
Not a Happy Camper by Mindy Schneider |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This memoir --- about the author's experiences at an eight-week camp in the summer of 1974 --- is not one I would have read had I not won it in a contest, but it was a nice story. The author spends most of her time in the woods bemoaning her unpopularity and chasing boys, which is made more interesting with a thorough sprinkling of amusing anecdotes. While I don't expect this quick little read to appeal to anyone who was never a 13-year-old girl or a camper, it was a pleasant diversion.
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| Linda M. Johnson |
Away by Amy Bloom |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A well-written book. The main character, Lillian Leyb, arrives in New York City after escaping from Russia after the murder of her parents and husband. She did manage to help her young daughter out a window to escape harm. In New York, what seem denigrating circumstances are tolerated by Lillian since she has already experienced the worst any human can. When a relative arrives announcing that Lillian's daughter is alive in Siberia, Lillian travels, suffering more indignations along the way. This book does NOT read as dark as this write-up might make it seem. Lillian's dignity pervades each page.
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| Salinas (SalinasBeth@hotmail.com) |
Dark of the Moon by John Sandford |
Rating: 4 Stars |
While romancing the sheriff's sister, Virgil Flowers solves five murders in small-town Minnesota. Virgil is a protégé of Lucas Davenport from the Prey series. He appeared in INVISIBLE PREY, and now has his own book, which will surely be a new series for Sandford. While it does not have the intensity of a Prey novel, it is a great read.
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| Kathy B (kboucher@cableone.net) |
House of Sand and Fog by Andre Dubus III |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Beautiful...heartbreaking...it took me a little while to get into it, and get the characters straight, but oh my! Once I did, I couldn't put it down. It is so real, and shows the misunderstandings that take place when two cultures come together and can't communicate. I loved this book!
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| Lu |
The Last Chinese Chef by Nicole Mones |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A wonderful book describing the cooking of "real" Chinese food and the relationship of a food writer in China and an upcoming Chinese American chef in living in China.
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| Christy H. |
Last Known Victim by Erica Spindler |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Ms. Spindler has written another great suspense thriller that will hook you from the very first page. Set in New Orleans after Katrina, this action-packed plot is full of twists and turns that will keep you guessing right up to the end.
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| Lauren Small |
Cooking Lessons by Nina Romano |
Rating: 5 Stars |
COOKING LESSONS is a wonderful poetry collection and would make a great gift to share with anyone who likes food, travel, family, and life. The poems are beautiful, lyrical, and evoke foreign landscapes, as well as scenes of family, memories, and shared meals. Even people who don't usually read poetry will find these poems heartwarming and accessible.
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| Marsha |
Waiting to Surface by Emily Listfield |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Based on real events, this novel is filled with details about the disappearance of the husband of a young mother who is a senior editor of a woman's magazine. The horror of her situation, both personally and professionally, is hard to imagine. It will keep you mesmerized.
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| Jen Mulsow |
A Cup of Tea by Amy Ephron |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I really enjoyed this book. It is very short but packs a lot into a small package.
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| donn |
The Alienist by Caleb Carr |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Dr. Laszlo Kreizer is an alienist (a psychologist) who specializes in child and forensic psychology. He is a pioneer in the use of fingerprinting, pathology, and pre-profiling. When young male prostitutes' bodies are found mutilated, Dr. Kreizler, an ex con, a police reporter, two detectives, Theodore Roosevelt (the police commisioner) and Roosevelt's secretary, maybe the only people in New York in 1896 who care about finding the murderer. This novel brings up many social issues as well as being a entertaining mystery with great characters.
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| Marlene C |
The Gift by Richard Paul Evans |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A quick read with a message about connection with loved ones, much in the same vein as THE CHOICE by Nicholas Sparks. I enjoyed both for their insights.
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| Judy Goldsmith (judyjtg@sbcglobal.net) |
Dry: A Memoir by Augusten Burroughs |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A well-written account of an alcoholic going through the process of not drinking. It was a good follow-up to his first autobiographical RUNNING WITH SCISSORS.
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| Jane (janebeatty92083@hotmail.com) |
The Center of Everything by Laura Moriarty |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a great book. I loved the characters in it. I would highly recommend it and will continue to read her books.
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| Bonnie |
Cold Service by Robert B. Parker |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Sometimes it's fun to read a good mystery (even though there's no "mystery" involved) with entertaining characters that you can read in a few hours. This is it.
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| Christy H. |
The Dead Room by Heather Graham |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Ms. Graham has written another gripping paranormal romance that will hook you from the very first page. The story line is fast paced and filled with suspense. Although this book does not have your typical "happily ever after", I found it to be an enjoyable read that I wanted to finish all in one sitting.
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| Maureen H |
Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Dr. Maura Iles or Jane Rizzoli were not in this book. It took me awhile to get into, but once I did, I enjoyed this story. I was anticipating this to be another installment in the Dr. Iles and Jane Rizzoli saga and was disappointed it was not. The book stands alone and was a good read, and I am glad that I did read it.
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| Fran |
The Road by Cormac McCarthy |
Rating: 2 Stars |
An unnamed man and his son walk through Burned America in an apocalyptic story. I found it to be dark and depressing. I can't believe that so many people rave about this book. I guess it just wasn't my cuppa tea.
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| Janice G. |
Halfway to Heaven by Susan Wiggs |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Susan Wiggs is my new best friend. I LOVE her books and cannot get enough. Great escape romance.
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| Anne Burley |
Gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Ms. Jackson breaks all the rules a southern gal is warned not to do! She masterfully builds a story of love, intrigue and family around a well-hidden secret. Just wonderful! I did not want to put the book down! I passed it along to another friend who thought the same!
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| Robb (Booksagain@aol.com) |
Merle's Door by Ted Kerasote |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Kerasote chronicles the life and and his times with his dog Merle. If you don't have a canine best friend now, you'll want one after you read this book.
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| Mitch |
The First Commandant by Brad Thor |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very good, makes you want to keep reading to see what is going to happen next.
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| Jere Duncan |
Those Self Evident Truths by Ted Magnuson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Great summary of the rise of democracy, including significant documents along the way --- from the Magna Carta to the Gettysburg Address. In audio format, it's perfect for use by commuters and while at the gym (73 minutes).
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| Bonnie |
Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson and David O. Relin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I rarely give books 5 stars (perfect is hard to come by in my opinion), but this is a must read. You've read about Mortenson and seen him on Oprah --- he tried to climb K2, happened upon a village in Pakistan, came back to build a school and continues to build schools and other projects to help the people there to this day. Why this man didn't win the Nobel Peace Prize is beyond me!
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| Thomas |
At First Sight by Nicholas Sparks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is an excellent sequel to TRUE BELIEVER. Jeremy Marsh has settled into little Boone Creek, NC, after becoming engaged to Lexie Darnell. It is a major change from his life in New York City, and Jeremy has started to wonder what he has gotten into. He has serious writer's block, has made no friends, and is bored to death with Boone Creek. He still loves Lexie, but is starting to have doubts about their relationship.
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| Connie |
The Cinderella Pact by Sarah Strohmeyer |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read this book because I saw a review here and it sounded very good. I really enjoyed this book. It was about Nola Devlin who has a secret identity. She is an overweight editor of Sass magazine. She applied to write for the trendy advice column but was laughed at. So by night, she becomes Belinda Apple, who is thin, gorgeous, British and writes the trendy advice column. Belinda writes a piece about how easy it is to lose weight. Nola's two friends read this and agree, and then they form the Cinderella Pact. This book is great chick-lit.
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| Dustin Whitney |
The Great Upheaval by Jay Winik |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book primarily centers on the tumultuous years of 1788-1800, or post-Revolution. While our country's history normally focuses on events in our own backyard, Winik offers well-researched insight on how the worlds superpowers England, France, and Russia helped shape the USA into the superpower it is today. This book is very interesting and is a must for anyone interested in history.
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| Callista (callista83@cogeco.ca) |
The Black Tattoo by Sam Enthoven |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I don't usually read scary books, YA or otherwise, but the blurb sounded interesting .
It's long for a YA book because it was originally made into three separate books, but was then put into one long volume. It was interesting, but not quite what I was expecting. A large portion of the book takes place in Hell, which isn't the same as what most people think of. God is in the book but he's nothing like most people believe, no matter what religion. Many times, Jack or Charlie will make a comment or ask a question, and then are told that their earthly beliefs are wrong and to stop being held back by them. I found this very interesting. Sam Enthoven was very creative, creating worlds and ideas that I'd never heard before. It was nice not to have the same old demons be the evil creatures of hell, which is where you go when you die if you've been bad, etc.... He's created something new.
I didn't have the can't-put-it-down feeling 'til near the end, but this is probably because demons are not the sort of thing I usually care to read about. I did enjoy this, though, and I am curious about his upcoming book.
What was really cool was the kung fu and weapons. It was like the fight scenes in Kill Bill but a little less gruesome. The whole tattoo thing was cool too.
It was scary in parts and I wouldn't allow my child to read it till at least 13, possibly 15 if they scare/upset easily.
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| Callista (callista83@cogeco.ca) |
Mosaic by Amy Grant |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I got this book from the publishers to review. I was supposed to receive it along with 3 giveaway copies weeks ago, but they must have got lost in the mail or held up at customs or something. I read the last bit of this during the Read-athon.
However, a replacement copy came in the mail on Wednesday so I was able to read it! Here is where I posted the summary and author bio.
I wasn't sure what to expect when I said yes to this book. I don't actually listen to Amy Grant's music and I'm not Christian, but I was intrigued and I just can't say no to books!
It was a very interesting read. It wasn't really an autobiography, more of a memoir. I liked that it wasn't set out chronologically. You might think that this would make it hard to follow, but it wasn't. Also mixed throughout the short story snippets were song lyrics and poems. I'm not a big poetry fan but I enjoyed her poetry and most of her song lyrics (which, without knowing the music, is like poetry.)
I could really identify with the stories "Hats" and "Winter." "Hats" was about having so many different tasks that you are responsible for, and "Winter" was about depression. Grant has a great writing style and I think she would do well writing other books too, perhaps even kid's books.
As a Christian Artist, parts of the book and her lyrics were about Jesus and God but this didn't bother me. I only skipped parts of one story because I wasn't interested. Most of what she wrote about God fits in with other religions that believe in a God.
It was a really good read and I recommend it to anyone who can get their hands on it, even if you aren't an Amy Grant fan, even if you aren't Christian.
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| Dee4294 |
The Great Deluge by Douglas Brinkley |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Riveting, award-winning narration of the events of Hurricane Katrina. Very long, but impossible to put down.
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| Mrs L A Ramsen |
Small Miracles by Yitta Halberstam and Judith Leventhal |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I hate sappy books. Trust me, this was NOT one of them. The beautiful, simple, true stories amused, amazed, and brought a tear to these jaundiced eyes. What a lovely surprise! This is the perfect gift for almost any occasion.
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| Rita |
Angel and Apostle by Deborah Noyes |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book is billed as a sequel to THE SCARLET LETTER by Nathaniel Hawthorne, but, of course, written much later by an entirely different author just as SCARLETT was to GONE WITH THE WIND. The story changes somewhat and this will bother many people. However, there is some very thought-provoking passages and a story worthy in its own right. I think the connection to THE SCARLET LETTER actually harms the enjoyment of this book and overshadows the story.
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| Peggy Soler |
Fool's Gold by Jennifer Skully |
Rating: 3 Stars |
To all you readers who love to read romance novels, this might be your cup of tea. This story is about Sheriff Tyler Braxton, who is visiting his sister in Goldstone, Nevada. His sister Maggie believes that her husband is having an affair and she wants Tyler to find out with whom. Tyler meets Simone, who writes Internet erotica, and is smitten by her. In between trying to find out if Maggie's husband is having an affair and having sexual desires for Simone, Maggie's husband Carl is found dead.
Was Carl's death accidental, or was it murder? Explicit sex ladies, do not forget to get your fans.
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| Joan B. |
The Good Guy by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A fast-paced thriller that had my heart racing. Tim Carrier is having a beer after work when he is approached by a man at the bar. He is mistaken for a killer and is given money and a picture of the intended victim. From here, the story takes off like a fast-moving train and you are holding on for life. Thanks f |
