| Bonnie |
In Defense of Food: An Eater's Manifesto by Michael Pollan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
All of his books have been bestsellers and I can see why. His premise is "Eat Food. Not Too Much. Mostly Plants." The author then goes on to explain what food is and that much of what is sold in supermarkets doesn't qualify. He says if your great-grandmother wouldn't recognize it as food, put it back. You'll never food shop the same way again!
|
| Linda M. Johnson |
Plum Lucky by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 2 Stars |
I am usually one of the first to read Evanovich's numbered books, but this one is a waste of the trees it took to make it and the $17.95 to purchase it. I wish Evanovich would concentrate on quality rather than quantity.
|
| Mark in OR |
Tiny Dancer by Anthony Flacco |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A stunning story showing the love of a father for his daughter and what he does to save her. Many parties are involved in this wonderful example of human kindness. I found this gem while stranded in Ghazni, AF. Add it to your 2008 list First!
|
| Mark in OR |
A Thousand Slendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was maybe better than his first book, dealing with two generations of women focusing on existing together in a society in need of change. An example of love --- a must read.
|
| Mark in OR |
The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A very powerful and stunning first book to come out of Afghanistan and how its people survived the Soviet invasion and the Taliban. I just returned from Afghanistan and read many fine accounts of a proud nation. (This has now been made into a very important movie.)
|
| Michelle Potala |
The Feast of Roses by Indu Sundaresan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the 2nd book in the series, the first of which was was Indu's first book. It was so wonderful. it is rich with history, romance, and a bit of politics. I can't wait until she has another book out. It took me just 2 days to read it. I could not out it down. I always wanted to know what will happen next.
|
| Christy Hawkes |
Soul Deep by Lora Leigh |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I am absolutely in love with Ms. Leigh's Breed series and this book is at the top of my list. Filled with wonderful new characters and the return of characters from previous books (I suggest you read this series in order), this is an enjoyable fast read. I highly recommend not only this book, but the whole series.
|
| Christy Hawkes |
Shadow Music by Julie Garwood |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I absolutely loved and enjoyed this latest historical romance from Ms. Garwood. Filled with vivid descriptions, wonderful characters and an interesting storyline, I read this book from start to finish in just a few hours. Highly recommended!
|
| Kristin |
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Read this in two sittings. It's a great story about lifelong friends, and even though their lives are so different they remain best friends. The only downside is that the story is almost identical to Beaches.
|
| Readingrat |
Between, Georgia by Joshilyn Jackson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I read Joshilyn Jackson's GODS IN ALABAMA last year and enjoyed it, so I was really looking forward to reading this one. I wasn't disappointed. I'd have to say I liked this even better than GODS IN ALABAMA because this one really reaches out and touches your heart. It's funny and heartfelt and all about families (the love and the feuds) and small town life.
|
| Christy H. |
Beyond the Dark by Angela Knight, et al |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Four fantastic paranormal erotic stories by all four authors! I highly recommend this book, especially if you are a fan of Leigh's Breed series.
|
| Judy O. |
Souvenir by Therese Fowler |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a terrific story about a woman dealing with a terminal illness. That makes it sound grim, but instead, it was very life-affirming. This is Fowler's first novel, and I hope it won't be the last.
|
| Patricia (patriciart@aol.com) |
The Crimson Petal and the White by Michel Faber |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I came across this book while searching the shelves of our local public library for something else entirely. I picked it up because of its obvious thickness and a sticker that advertised historical fiction, which I always enjoy. From the first paragraph written by an unseen guide to the streets of 19th-century England and until the very last page, I was engrossed. I hated to see it end. The characters were so real and interesting, I shall miss them all. Over 800 pages of a captivating journey thru Victorian slums, whore houses and society have been highly entertaining and even during my daily work schedule, I would find myself wondering what these colorful characters would do next. I Can't wait to find more by this author.
|
| Christy H. |
Jacob's Faith by Lora Leigh |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This 2nd book in the Wolf Breed series is a fun and fast read that you will want to devour all in one sitting. Great plot, interesting characters and lots and lots of hot, steamy sex make this book a highly recommended read.
|
| Christy H. (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Mallets Aforethought by Sarah Graves |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I really enjoyed this 7th book in THE Home Repair is Homicidemystery series. Ms. Graves always delivers with a fascinating plot, vivid descriptions of Eastport, Maine (I want to visit there!), and a great cast of interesting and believable characters. I highly recommend this book.
|
| Charles |
The Envelope by Wilson Crawford |
Rating: 4 Stars |
THE ENVELOPE is an interesting and suspenseful book that combines romance and intrigue. Crawford weaves a clever tale that is kind of a "pass it on" story with a twist.
|
| Fran |
Poster Child by Emily Rapp |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Emily Rapp shares her life story of growing up with a congenital defect, which required her leg be amputated at the ankle. An inspiring and at times heartbreaking account of a young woman's painful journey to adulthood in a world that doesn't value those who are different. I would highly recommend this book to others.
|
| Christy H. (hawkes@citlink.net) |
Nail Biter by Sarah Graves |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This 9th book in the Home Repair is Homicide series is a fast-paced story with the return of characters that I've come to know and love, as well as a personal tragedy for Jacobia. You won't want to miss this read!
|
| Mark in OR |
Country Of My Skull by Antjie Krog |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very revealing book having to do with the 'Truth and Reconciliation Commission' following the dimantling of apartheid. Very powerful and made into a movie.
|
| Christy H. |
Elizabeth's Wolf by Lora Leigh |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I was hooked with the very first Breeds book, and none of them have disappointed. This book was so emotional and Ms. Leigh's descriptions so vivid --- it was hard to put it down.
|
| Jill |
T is for Trespass by Sue Grafton |
Rating: 5 Stars |
If you're a follower of the Alphabet series, this one will not disappoint. I read the last half in 1 night --- I just could not put it down. A tale of identify theft is woven into Kinsey's multiple assignments, with a good bit of edge-of-your-seat stuff. All the usual characters are present, which makes it also a comfortable read.
|
| Jo from Brooklyn |
Morningside Heights by Cheryl Mendelson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a terrific potboiler about the lives and loves of middle-class intellectuals living on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The book has a great New York feel.
|
| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
Blue Heaven by C. J. Box |
Rating: 5 Stars |
One of the better mysteries that I have read --- a real page turner about ex-cops retiring in northern Idaho, and the heartbeat of a small community. I had to finish even though I had other things to do. When the chips are down, where do you turn? And where do you find truth?
|
| Judy S |
The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Ms. Ackerman did an impressive job in researching the true accounts of the Zabinskis in Poland during World War II. More than a zookeeper & his wife, they hid Resistance fighters and refugee Jews from the Nazis. What the Zabinskis accomplished is truly noteworthy, but the writing style of Ms. Ackerman in this book made it a difficult read. The facts were there, but I did not feel the passion or spirit in those words. I really wish I could rate it higher.
|
| Eileen (eqkmath@gmail.com) |
Trail of Crumbs by Kim Sunee |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a wonderful biography of a woman who is a traveler and a chef! The book describes the places she has been and what those travels mean to her. It is similar to EAT, PRAY, LOVE but it has a bonus! There rare wonderful recipes at the end of each chapter! What a delight this book is....
|
| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Glamour Job: A Fairy-Tale for Grown-Ups by Doug Farrell |
Rating: 5 Stars |
GLAMOUR JOB is a fun, fast-paced, and very enjoyable story. It has many twists and turns, and since it is for adults, there are sex and violence, but in a light tone. I do not ever remember reading anything quite like this. The mixture of ghosts and goblins with sci-fi make this plausible and it holds well together. I highly recommend this book to any sci-fi and fantasy readers.
|
| Lori Barnes (photoquest@bellsouth.net) |
A Date With the Other Side by Erin McCarthy |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a really cute book. Shelby works as a tour guide for haunted houses and never experienced and ghost sightings until a new renter came to town he was there on business for a couple of months and strange things started happening when he was around. You'll enjoy this book. An easy read.
|
| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
Smell of Death by F. M. Meredith |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The Rocky Bluff P.D. Series is a cross between "Law & Order" and "As the World Turns." The story centers on the everyday lives of the law enforcement who serve and protect citizens of Rocky Bluff, California, a beach community.
|
| Patty Latona |
Invisible Monsters by Chuck Palahniuk |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a very fast read. I read it in hree days.
|
| Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net) |
Hot by Julia Harper |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A quick, fun page turner filled with action, romance, and a few good laughs.
|
| Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net) |
Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shephard |
Rating: 4 Stars |
YA Chick-Lit worth the time reading. This one is the first in a series, and I think it was good enough to drive you to read the rest.
|
| Rebekah Crain (littleminx@cox.net) |
The Hatbox Baby by Carrie Brown |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book had a good story, but lacked a little bit in character development and in closure (i.e. the ending). I'd recommend it, though.
|
| Joan |
Soul Catcher by Michael White |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This was a wonderful book about a shameful time in our history. It really made me think about the slaves and how they were treated. I was very interested in seeing how Cain was reacting to the runaway slave Rosetta and applauded his choice at the end of the book.
|
| Maureen H |
The Tunnels by Michelle Gagnon |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a debut book about a serial killer targeting college students in the underground tunnels of a prestigious college in New England. This is a fast-paced book and I really enjoyed the FBI agent, Kelly Jones, assigned to investigate these killings. A very fast read, because you cannot put this book down!
|
| Shawnee |
The Translator by Daoud Hari |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Daoud Hari is from Darfur and as war came to his village, his family encouraged him to fight not with a gun but with his education. With his ability to translate, Daoud worked to help as many journalist and government officials as possible tell the story of what was happening to his people and his country despite the very real threat to his own life. Yet I doubt that any reporter could tell the world the heartbreaking truth of the genocide that has and is occurring in Darfur as eloquently as Daoud Hari does himself in this book.
|
| Jill |
Shoot the Moon by Billie Letts |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A good read about small-town culture, involving a man with a well-to-do California upbringing who learns the truth about his birth mother and heritage. In the process, there's suspense, sadness, and a decent ending. If you're looking for deep character development, this is probably not the book for you.
|
| Thomas |
My Turn at the Bully Pulpit by Greta Van Susteren |
Rating: 3 Stars |
While not particularly riveting, this book does a good job of presenting the views of the popular host of Fox News's "On The Record." Greta does have some common sense, and down-to-earth viewpoints. It helps that she is also a fellow Wisconsinite and Packers fan.
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Parvana by Deborah Ellis |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I enjoy books like this. They help teach us about foreign lands, lands we know little about. This was a story about a young girl named Parvana, who lived in a small one room apartment with her family in Kabul during the Taliban regime. After her father is arrested and taken away, Parvana’s mother cuts her hair really short, dresses her in boys' clothes and Parvana goes out to the streets to sell things to help support the rest of the family.
This story is fascinating. It gives you a picture of a time and a place that is so primitive and unfamiliar and scary. It reminds us how lucky we are. Can’t wait to read the journey.
|
| Margo |
Letters from Nuremberg by Sen. Christopher Dodd |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book gives an insight into the mindset of the Nazis. Sen. Dodd's father, Thomas Dodd, wrote very personal letters to his wife about the Nazis, life in the bombed city, and his reflections on the evil done by the Nazis. He was the chief American prosecutor of the Nazis at their trials.
|
| Ellen |
Anatomy of Deception by Lawrence Goldstone |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Just started. Perhaps it's too graphic for the horrific ways medicine was practiced after the Civil War, but it was so interesting to involve famous doctors and artists of the time.
|
| Karin |
The Pillars of the Earth by Ken Follett |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I don't know if I enjoyed this book. It certainly was a page turner, and it haunted me when I wasn't reading it. I enjoyed the Architectural details that were sprinkled throughout the book. I didn't give it a 5 because I felt that there were a lot of repetitive scenes. I think I didn't enjoy it, because it was so intense with the violence an betrayals. I felt relief when I finished reading.
|
| Fran |
An Egg on Three Sticks by Jackie Moyer Fischer |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This book details the impact of mental illness on a family, from the eyes of a child. The author captures the mind of a 13-year-old girl and the devastating effect mental illness has on a family with harsh realism. Much of this book really rings true. The only unrealistic part of the book was the idea of anyone going into a mental hospital for the length of time this mother did. In real life, a 24-hour hold is the max.... and rarely longer than 28 days, regardless of the needs of the patient. Overall, it was a good depiction of life with a mentally ill family member, and the effect on a family.
|
| Cat |
The Cruelest Month by Louise Penny |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The third of Penny's Three Pines mysteries featuring Inspector Gamache is the finest of her three in this series. She just keeps getting better with each new book. You will become as enamored with the characters in the small Canadian town as with the mystery involving a death that occurs during an apparently innocently organized séance. A secondary plot involving the charming Gamache is equally enticing. It was wonderful to return to quality writing and skip the serial killers for a while. Also, I do not miss the first two of the series, STILL LIFE and A FINAL GRACE.
|
| Ellen |
A Serpent's Tale by Ariana Franklin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I really enjoy her books. Can't wait for more!
|
| Cat |
The Silver Swan by Benjamin Black |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The second Quirk mystery is a smoothly written tale full of twists and turns. The characters come to life on the page as the pathologist Quirk struggles with murders, the conflicts between justice and vengeance, and his unending cravings for that drink that helps to relieve him of life's disappointments. A double whammy of an ending completes this superior novel.
|
| Liza |
March by Geraldine Brooks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Fabulous. Anyone who has enjoyed LITTLE WOMEN must read this book. It's the story told from the point of view of Marmee's husband, Mr. Marsh (absent for most of "Little Women") who has gone off to war and left his wife and 4 daughters behind. While they are keeping the fires warm at home, he is experiencing the cruel and gruesome aspects of war.
|
| Jen Mulsow |
Unless by Carol Shields |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Very good!
|
| Beth Reimer |
Water for Elephants by Sara Guen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I can't stop reading this book, it's awesome.
|
| J. Kaye Oldner (jkayeoldner@yahoo.com) |
A Hike For Mike by Jeff Alt |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I really enjoyed this book. His description of what they did and the explanation of why they did it shows what a great teacher and writer he is. The amount of detail is well integrated with the story and dialogue. Based on his book, I feel I can hike the trail and know what to expect. Personally, I now know I'm not going on that hike. It's too rugged for me. The importance of Jeff and Beth's purpose is Depression Awareness, which is highlighted by the stories from the other hikers and people they met along the trail.
|
| Astoria Maloney (astoria_maloney@yahoo.com) |
Ivy's Twisted Vine by Latrivia S. Nelson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This interracial romance novel based in Memphis, TN is an intriguing tale of love, lust and passion. The author brought the characters to life with mind-blowing plots and true sex appeal. As an avid interracial romance reader, I think that she brought something new to the table. It's one of the most enjoyable books that I've read in a very long time.
|
| Margo |
Stone Cold by David Baldacci |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The Camel Club rescues Annabelle, and Oliver Stone is under fire as someone from his past is killing all his former sniper mates. He risks everything to help his friends escape. I really liked this book.
|
| Donna |
The Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Neffenneger |
Rating: 5 Stars |
An amazing novel. This is the story of Henry and Claire and their love affair that transcended time. When it ends, you wish you could go back in time and start all over again. The interweaving of time lines and ages during which Henry finds himself is surprisingly easy to understand as the story is, in a word, timeless.
|
| Deb Brandon (dbrandon@creighton.edu) |
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book was one of the best I have read in a long time! I loved the way he had "Death" as the narrator. He had a wonderful way of telling the horrible story through the eyes of a child and the people who grew to love her so much! It was a story of courage, love and survival! I loved it!
|
| Juanita |
Atonement by Ian McEwan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This was a difficult book to get into. I'm not at the halfway point and I sure wish I could stay home today and read! Very compelling!
|
| Brent (Bhouse@yahoo.com) |
Tourist in the Yucatan by James McNay Brumfield |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A bit of pulp fiction that is actually quite good for what it is. The story follows a young American on a trip to the Yucatan, visiting a friend who is an archaeologist. But things don't go as planned and they soon find themselves in hot water and on the run from federals, gangsters, and maybe even agents from their own country! The plot weaves in some credible elements of Mayan archeology that I found quite interesting. A fun fast read! I will look for more from this author!
|
| Shawnee |
Baantjer by Daoud Hari |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Daoud Hari is from Darfur and as war came to his village, his family encouraged him to fight --- not with a gun, but with his education. With his ability to translate, Daoud worked to help as many journalist and government officials as possible tell the story of what was happening to his people and his country despite the very real threat to his own life. Yet I doubt that any reporter could tell the world the heartbreaking truth of the genocide that has and is occurring in Darfur as eloquently as Daoud Hari does himself in this book.
|
| Ali |
A Farewell to Arms by Ernest Hemingway |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I am not a Hemingway fan, but I read this for my book club. There was a story hidden in the rhetoric. It had a kind of déjà vu quality. I may have seen the movie many many years ago.
|
| Crystal |
Murder in Amsterdam by A. C. Baantjer |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The blurb on the back of the book states, "This first translation of Baantjer 's work into English supports the mystery writer's reputation in his nation of Holland as a Dutch Conan Doyle." So far this is the second one of his books that I have read. Both I have been wonderful. I am not yet convinced that the comparison to Conan Doyle is apt, but I do have great hope. Baantjer's Inspector DeKok is wonderful and quite a character. Already, I am quite fond of him; I can't wait to read another one of his adventures!
|
| Gina |
The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold |
Rating: 1 Stars |
Very disappointing second novel after Sebold's excellent THE LOVELY BONES. The plot was preposterous and not worth my time. I doubt this book would have been
published at all if not for the acclaim of
her first book.
|
| Readingrat |
The Blade Itself by Marcus Sakey |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A tremendously gripping debut novel about a man struggling to put his shady past behind him.
|
| Readingrat |
The City of Masks by Daniel Hecht |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A strong paranormal thriller set in New Orleans about a group of modern-day ghost chasers. The first book in Hecht's Cree Black series.
|
| Allison Bernstein |
Plum Lucky by Janet Evanovich |
Rating: 5 Stars |
You can't go wrong with Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum. This between-the-numbers book is a riot.
|
| Sally B., San Antonio TX |
Souvenir by Therese Fowler |
Rating: 3 Stars |
3.5 stars. I received this as an ARC through bookreporter. The beginning was somewhat abrupt, but it elapsed into a well-written, emotional novel with death at the end, but redemption too. That said, I don't know why the author or publisher didn't make this a trilogy. It would have been perfect. Book 1 - Carson & Meg growing up and her ultimate marriage to Brian.
Book 2 - Marriage to Brian, Savannah (& paternity) and her escapades online and Carson dealing with his heartache via music and drugs.
Book 3 - Her illness, results of Savannah and her "boyfriend", reunion with Carson and death.
|
| Allison Bernstein |
Queen of Babble by Meg Cabot |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a fun, easy read. I loved the characters and found myself laughing out loud several times. I can't wait to read the follow up, QUEEN OF BABBLE in the Big City.
|
| Susan (susandyer1962@aol.com) |
Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of the funniest books I have ever read. I cant wait to read her others! I am talking laughing-out-loud funny!
|
| Kellie (acountkel@bellsouth.net) |
Ghost Rider by Sharyn McCrumb |
Rating: 2 Stars |
This was an historical fiction book about the Civil War. Most of the places mentioned were right here in North Carolina. Asheville, Statesville, Blowing Rock and Raleigh were mentioned several times. Even Charlotte was mentioned towards the end. I really tried to enjoy this but after I finished it, I felt really let down. I am not sure if I was reading a history book or a sad attempt to weave some fiction with non-fiction. This just did not capture my interest. My ears perked up when I read the story of the Blalocks. There were parts of their story that was interesting. I kept waiting for an exciting climax, but it never came. The ending was suppose to pull everything together, but I am still sitting her trying to figure it out. For the most part, this book bored me. I thought, I would have enjoyed this more if you took out the fiction and just reported the history. At least I would have felt satisfied that I learned something.
|
| Anne |
Double Cross by James Patterson |
Rating: 3 Stars |
Alex Cross, profiler and psychiatrist, has rejoined the police department to find two serial killers. One killer craves attention from the media and the other killer wants Dr. Cross dead. I just could not get into this novel. Neither the plot or the characters appealed to me.
|
| Mary Kay Ball (mkb1261@yahoo.com) |
Doomesday Book by Connie Willis |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a Science-Fiction/Fantasy time travel book. I must confess, I don't read much Sci-Fi, but I REALLY liked this one. I was drawn into the story about the Middle Ages and the mid-21st Century. There were many parallels. The plot moved quickly as the characters struggled to find answers for the epidemics in both time periods.
|
| JaneAnn Railey |
Souvenir by Therese Fowler |
Rating: 5 Stars |
5 stars and more. I was lucky to receive an advance reader copy of this book and I just finished couple nights ago. It was wonderful. You've got to look out for it on shelves on Feb. 26 --- mark the day on your book calendar, you won't be sorry! It was such a touching story --- I ended crying so hard that I had to put it down a few times to clear my eyes. I will be looking for her next story.
|
| Julie Ann |
My Hands Came Away Red by Lisa McKay |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the most moving book I have read in a very long time. When I was through, I wished I had read it slower just to make it last. I cannot believe this is Ms. McKay's 1st novel. Eagerly awaiting the next one...
|
| Catie 75 |
Resistance by Sheers |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Great book! What if Germany had won World War II and occupied Great Britain? Told from many points of view, you are left wondering who is the good guy and who is the bad guy.
|
| Readingrat |
Firefly Lane by Kristin Hannah |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A touching story of friendship through the decades. I found it particularly appealing because I'm of an age that is very similar to the main characters, so this story really brought back memories of high school in the 70s, college in the 80s, getting married, and the stresses of early motherhood. This is the third book I've read by this author and my favorite so far.
|
| Dottie M. |
The Appeal by John Grisham |
Rating: 4 Stars |
I listened to this on CD and really enjoyed it. The two main characters --- lawyers in a small Mississippi --- town worked so very hard for the defendant against a big chemical company.
|
| Crystal |
Book of the Dead by Patricia Cornwell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another thrilling, suspense-filled tale starring Dr. Kay Scarpetta, her niece Lucy, investigator Pet Marino and psychologist (and ex-FBI agent) Benton Wesley! This time around, the action travels from Scarpetta's new home base of Charleston, S.C. to Rome, Italy with the action also encompassing New York City and a Harvard-affiliated psychiatric hospital in New England.
|
| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
A Sister's Test by Wanda Brunstetter |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Wanda Brunstetter’s ability to capture the true life and lifestyle of the Amish once again comes out in true form. Her insight into what is important to the Amish is reflected in her words and style of writing.
Ruth Hostettler is the oldest daughter, and her desire to marry and have a family are always on her mind. The is first courted by Luke, but he kept too many secrets and his behavior was always reckless. She often was very frightened of him.
Martin Gingerich comes into Ruth’s life at a time she is despairing over not finding a mate. He is kind, considerate and always concerned about her and her family's welfare. When things seem to be going well between them, someone starts targeting her family through burning down her sister’s house, killing plants in the garden and leaving mysterious notes. The Hostettler family can't imagine who would be this destructive.
After Martin and Ruth marry, calmness sets over all their families --- no destructive behavior comes about. Then one night, while riding in the buggy to Ruth’s family home, the unthinkable happens --- a truck rams into the back of their buggy, pushing it down an embankment. Martin dies and Ruth has emergency surgery and is left without the ability to have children again.
Ruth feels her life will never be the same and she has no reason for living.
The questions that the reader wants answered in this heartwarming story include: who was responsible for all the problems that plagued the Hostetter family? Was it Luke? Her sister’s old English boyfriend? And why?
Readers should take the time to read this great story, and for a while, live the simple life.
|
| Marla A. |
The Secret Between Us by Barbara Delinsky |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Delinsky at her best.
|
| Sal Williams |
Fear and Loathing in America- The Gonzo Letters Vo by Hunter S. Thompson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Nothing reveals character as clearly as correspondence and these Gonzo letters, taken from a time when Thompson was at the top of his game, are both penetrating and hilarious. It's a stroll down Memory Lane with a guy who made common language sing for Hunter's fans.These letters make me want to go back and reread what he was writing at the time.
|
| Sal Williams |
Stories From The Blue Moon Cafe II by Sonny Brewer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Established and new Southern short story writers are included in this delightful anthology, the second of five edited by Mr. Brewer. You'll find Lee Standiford, Cassandra King,Fannie Flagg,William Gay and Gregory Benford included here. Read Eric Kingrea's first published work here,too. Excellent.
|
| Sal Williams |
Stories From The Blue Moon Cafe II by Sonny Brewer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Established and new Southern short story writers are included in this delightful anthology, the second of five edited by Mr. Brewer. You'll find Lee Standiford, Cassandra King, Fannie Flagg, William Gay and Gregory Benford included here. Read Eric Kingrea's first published work here,too. Excellent.
|
| Nancy |
7th Heaven by James Patterson |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This continues the Women's Murder Club series and is one of Patterson's best books to date. There are 2 mysteries going at the same time: a disappearance and serial arsonist/killers.
I don't want to give anything away but I am usually very good at figuring out the killers and links. I was fooled with this one, which I like. This book hooks you on the first page!
|
| Jim in Arizona |
World Without End by Ken Follett |
Rating: 5 Stars |
It's not often that I give a book 5 stars. I maintain a spreadsheet of books I read and it's been a long time since the last 5-star book. What's more, I shy away from long books. But, I have always enjoyed Ken Follett's stories and plunged in. I couldn't put it down, and 1015 pages later I was glad I read it. As with most Follett books, there are many subplots, villains, heroes, disasters and glorious recoveries from these disasters. My wife couldn't believe I read the book in less than a week. I usually take 2-3 weeks to read a 300 page book. I highly recommend it.
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| CC |
The Husband by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A flat-out great mystery --- Koontz keeps the reader guessing throughout and is so descriptive you can practically see the movie this book is bound to become.
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| Carmie Peters (whpeters@citlink.net) |
The Boy's Tale by Margaret Frazer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
All of her books in this Medieval series are superb --- plot, characterization, and depiction of life in the 1400s. I am working my way through the entire series (10 or more). Great way to avoid the trials of winter!
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| Debi |
A Long Fatal Love Chase by Louisa May Alcott |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This novel, written before Alcott's bestseller, LITTLE WOMEN, was not published until 1995. It was discovered by Kent Bicknell, who then edited it and had it published. I always loved LITTLE WOMEN as well as JO'S BOYS, but this novel has surpassed them both. I read it in one weekend, stopping only to do the necessary household chores! Rosamond is the best Victorian heroine, and Tempest is the greatest villain! It is wonderful!
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| Debi |
The Art Thief by Noah Charney |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This book was a little slow at the beginning, but it picked up quickly. I learned a lot about the art world --- both good and bad. It had so many twists and turns that, at times, I got lost and had to re-read. But the plot kept me interested, and I did not guess the ending! A very good book!
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| Debi |
Run by Ann Patchett |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a very well-written novel in which the characters were interwoven and the action flowed smoothly. Even though the main action takes place in 24 hours, Patchett has given the characters depth by flashbacks. A young man steps into the path of an oncoming car and is pushed to safety by a woman. She is rushed to the hospital, inadvertently leaving behind a 12-year-old daughter to find her way home. A very good story.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
Escape by Carolyn Jessop with Laura Palmer |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A unbelievable account of one woman's escape from polygamy and the Fundamentalist Latter Day Saints.
At age eighteen, Carolyn was forced to marry a man 32 years her senior and live through seventeen years of abuse --- both physical and emotional --- and constantly be watched and reported on by his other wives. When Warren Jeffs became the leader for FLDS, her world became even stricter.
You won't forget this woman's escape and her attempt to live a normal life.
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| Marion Miller (lamamil@aol.com) |
Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A very sad but true commentary about life in India and and Indians in America.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
He's Not Autistic, But... by Tenna Merchant |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Ms. Merchant, if nothing else, is an exceptional mother and advocate for her child who the medical profession felt was “at a high risk for autism.” The long journey she and her family made for two years to figure out what was going on with her son, as well as herself was long, hard and often heartbreaking. I can think of no family that I have worked with during my tenure as a Psychologist with families with special needs that did a complete 360-degree turn as Ms. Merchant did.
At times during the reading of this book, I almost felt as if Ms. Merchant was almost aggressive to the point of being annoying. However, after reading all the failed treatments, diagnoses and pushing of vaccines by medical personnel, she had a right to be this way.
My knowledge by reading this book has only added reinforcement to my own professional views that doctors aren’t always right. I also found the information she provided on toxic aluminum and systemic yeast very informative and something I think every child should be tested for while looking at diagnosis of autism. Since alternative medical treatments have not been overly publicized, it is one area that I think all parents should explore. I know I found her experiences with alternative medicine exciting and least harmful to the body.
This reader, not only as a parent, but as a professional, would recommend this book be reading for every parent, parent-to-be, special education personnel and school resource staff as well as up and coming medical professionals.
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| Carol Hoyer from VA (pageant4u@hotmail.com) |
Miscarriage of Justice by Kip Gayden |
Rating: 4 Stars |
When you are one of the most upstanding family’s in the community, what happens when you fall from Grace? Anna Dotson was soon to find out. A mother of 2, a doctor for a husband and part of the community’s popular social circle had made one of the biggest mistakes possible and it might cause her her life.
Charlie Cobb was the new barber in town; he had a way with the women and he knew it. He had set his sights on Anna Dotson and true to form, she became his until her husband and the whole town found out about them. Dr. Dotson went crazy and threatened to kill Charlie Cobb if he didn’t leave town and leave his wife alone. But Dr. Dotson didn’t kill the womanizing barber. Anna Dotson said, “ She killed this thing, but didn’t murder him.” Did she know what she was doing? What would she resort to to protect her husband and children?
This is Kip Gayden’s first novel and the reader firmly believes he has a great gift of drawing one into his story by his style of writing and his ability to put you in Anna Dotson’s body.
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| T. Thomas |
The World Without Us by Alan Weisman |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a fascinating and easy-to-read book. Mr. Weisman gives a history of what we have done to the planet and what would happen if we were to suddenly disappear.
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| fafajane |
Look Me in the Eye by John Elder Robison |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I am about 1/4 of the way through. It is interesting, but not as enlightening as I anticipated. Love the cover!
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| Judy S |
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is the first book I've read of Ms. Brooks and was thoroughly entranced. Inspired by facts, the tale of the Sarajevo Haggadah (a Jewish book) weaves its way from the discovery of the haggadah in Bosnia in 1996, back through history (including its safeguarding by the unlikeliest of people over the years) to its beginning in Seville in the 15th century. Very worthwhile reading.
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| Bonnie Waliezer (Nabofrue@aol.com) |
The Sleeping Doll by Jeffery Deaver |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Another thriller which gives you a look into the deranged mind of a killer. This Manson wannabe leads everyone on a merry chase. Well worth the time to read.
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| Debbie (delphimo@yahoo.com) |
The Chicago Way by Michael Harvey |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A fabulous first murder mystery about Chicago, with many twists and turns. There are hilarkious and sad characters, as well as the despair of rape. Hope that Michael writes again.
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| Stella |
Hidden Places by Lynn Austin |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is historical fiction at its best and a beautiful story that will make you laugh and cry. Many family secrets are revealed as the years pass and strong characters are
challenged with everyday living.
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| fafajane |
A Walk in theWoods by Bill Bryson |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Parts of this walk on the Appalachian Trail are hilarious! The people they meet, mostly! I was slightly disappointed in the ending; it just sort of slips away.
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| Joanne Latva |
Last Call by James Grippando |
Rating: 3 Stars |
A good story that kept your interest. This is about how a person can be wrongly accused and, with a honest and caring lawyer, how he finds the truth.
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| Joanne Latva |
All The Pretty Girls by J. T. Ellison |
Rating: 4 Stars |
4 stars. This was a good story that keeps your interest and had good characters. It's he suspenseful 'til the end.
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| LouBabe (LouBabe@juno.com) |
Dead Silence by Brenda Novak |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The first of a trilogy, and I can hardly wait to read the other two. A much-respected reverend came up missing years ago, and the reader gradually learns more and more about the disappearance and about his real personality. I would like to see this book made into a movie.
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| Margaret |
Atonement by Ian McEwan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
It is not often that I reread books. Let's face it, there are so many wonderful books to be discovered. My book club chose this recently and I decided that I wanted to be an active person in our discussion, so I once again read this delightful novel. It is absolutely lyrical and riveting. I forgot how magical and interesting it was. I will keep it on my shelf and in ten years time read it again. It is outstanding.
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| Shawnee |
Lottery by Patricia Wood |
Rating: 5 Stars |
Oh, what a wonderful discovery. I am so glad I found out about this debut novel by Patricia Wood. It is a lovely book about what constitutes a family and what really matters in life. An uplifting novel that is fun and satisfying.
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| Martha E |
Iron Orchid by Stuart Woods |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is the fourth of the Holly Barker series. Holly, Former Chief of Police in Florida, is going through CIA training at the Farm as a new recruit. Her class is pulled out of training early to go on special assignment. Teddy Fay, an ex-CIA technical wizard, is killing government "targets" with the help of a CIA insider. He is such a master of disguise that Holly and the team keep missing him. They keep trying to anticipate his next move to try to get him.
I learned about other Woods's characters in this book whom I was not familiar with.
Good action, but I was a little disappointed by the ending --- although I can't say why without giving it away!
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| Another Anne |
Special Topics in Calamity Physics by Marisha Pessl |
Rating: 5 Stars |
While hard to get into for nearly the whole first half, the second half makes you realize why and makes you realize just how brilliantly the author has written this book. I can already tell this will be a strong contender for one of the best books I've read in 2008. SPECIAL TOPICS IN CALAMITY PHYSICS is a literary murder mystery and journey of self-discovery for the protagonist, Blue van Meer.
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| Linda M. Johnson |
Flush by Carl Hiaasen |
Rating: 3 Stars |
I've been listening to all of Carl Hiaasen's books on CD. Most of the adult books, published by Recorded Books, have the same narrator. The other children's book, Hoot, was read by Chad Lowe. This book's narrator, Michael Welch, is sometimes difficult to hear without turning the volume to an uncomfortable volume for the majority of his reading. Although Hiaasen continues to write about environmental issues affecting Florida, the writing in this book seems impetuous, not as well-developed as the other books I've read or listened to.
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| ritab |
The Loveliest Woman in America by Bibi Gaston |
Rating: 3 Stars |
The biography of Rosamund Pinchot Gaston, a Broadway actress of the 1920s and 30s who was once called "the loveliest woman in America." Rosamund was born into one of the country's most aristocratic families of the time, and spent much of her short life in the company of America's most illustrious --- Eleanor Roosevelt, Elizabeth Arden, David O. Selznick and many more political, artistic and society stars.
The biography is written by her granddaughter, who came into possession of Rosamund's lost diaries and other papers. This led the author into a search for the true story of Rosamund's life, ultimate suicide, and the causes and effects of her actions.
Gaston starts the biography with a Buddhist adage that says a suicide affects a family for ten generations and proceeds to show how this was true for her family. THE LOVELIEST WOMAN IN AMERICA is a good social history of the country's wealthiest in the '20s and '30s. It is also a history of family tragedy and the sad story of one of the "It" girls of the time.
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| Reva Wamsley (prwamsley@roadrunner.com) |
And Then You Die by Iris Johansen |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Another great book from Iris Johansen. She never disappoints. This is about a plot to wipe out a whole city by using money tainted with anthrax. It starts out in a little town in Mexico and ends up in the United States.
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| Annie Chris |
Here If You Need Me by Kate Braestrup |
Rating: 5 Stars |
When Kate Braestrup's state trooper husband is killed in an accident, she completely changes her life. Attending a seminary while caring for her four children, becoming a Unitarian minister and landing the new position of Maine's chaplain for search and rescue, she relates her experiences with humor, compassion and wisdom. This is an extraordinary book, and it rates a five from me because I will reread it.
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| Annie Chris |
The Alibi Man by Tami Hoag |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Good story. I listened to recorded book and it kept my attention well. The anger of Elena Estes for the majority of the story was a bit off-putting, however. The violence of the Russian element is graphic and probably not for everyone.
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| Annie Chris |
Dead Past by Beverly Connor |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Excellent series with a forensic lab director/museum director in Georgia involved in solving murder. This is the fourth book, and involves a tragic fire that kills many students. I like the details of the books, describing the exhibits of the museum and the intricate investigations of what bodies can reveal. Highly recommended.
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| RitaB |
The Murder Game by Beverly Barton |
Rating: 2 Stars |
A suspense/romance novel that leans more toward romance, but the suspense is pretty good. This is about the stereotypical strong, yet damaged, and somehow frail woman, an FBI agent, who "detests" the man she is forced to work with --- a handsome, strong, manly, millionaire with his own secrets, who equally "detests" the agent. There is so much "history" between Nicole and Griffin (our heroes) that the reader feels she might have missed reading a previous book.
The crime in this novel is a series of particularly gruesome murders. The victims, all athletic women, are kidnapped and transported to another location, mentally and physically tortured, then set "free" to be hunted down and ultimately shot and scalped. The killer enjoys leaving "clues" for Nicole and Griffin about his next victim and the suspense accelerates. Unfortunately, the final scenes are very trite and made me, at least, pretty disappointed.
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| F Tessa Bartels |
Silk by Alessandro Baricco |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Poetic and sensual. A short novella about a love so all consuming that it obliterates all else.
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| Diana Petty-Stone |
The Uncommon Reader by Alan Bennett |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a tiny little book about The Queen of England who finds a mobile library behind the Palace while walking her Corgis and feels obligated to borrow a book. It is a story that celebrates the pleasure of reading while balancing obligation and tradition, and revels in the power of literature to change even the most common reader's life. It is funny and witty and makes you feel the Queen could be human after all. It also makes you want to read more of Mr. Bennett's work.
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| Diana Petty-Stone |
People of the Book by Geraldine Brooks |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a very complex story --- part love story, part mystery and all woven together in a vivid history lesson. The Sarajevo Haggadah was created in Medieval Spain. A rare book expert carefully removes a series of almost invisible artifacts which, under a microscope, reveals insight into the remarkable five-century long journey of the famous rarity and the people whose lives it has touched.
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| Cathey (dbinpgh@aol.com) |
Marley & Me by John Grogan |
Rating: 5 Stars |
I finally got around to reading this and I am so glad that I did! This was a great read and would be very enjoyable for any dog lover.
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| Coral |
Stone Cold by David Baldacci |
Rating: 4 Stars |
The Camel Club is back and have their work cut out for them. Baldacci writes very well, so it is easy to keep up with all the various turns in the story. It keeps you interested and guessing.
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| Coral |
Song Yet Sung by James McBride |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This story, which takes place in around 1850, Maryland, is about a slave named Liz who was called the dreamer. SONG YET SUNG is a powerful book about slaves, their masters --- both good and bad --- and slave catchers.
The colored have a Code and it tells how it was sent. Much of the book is from historical events. This is a story of tragedy, violence and unexpected kindness.
I didn't think I would like the book when I started, but I do and it is a powerful book.
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| Margie Bunting |
Blood and Circuses by Kerry Greenwood |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A little more intense and even more "adult" than Greenwood's other delightful novels about Australian flapper Phryne Fisher, this one provides insight into the somewhat seedy circuses and carnivals of the day.
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| Susan C |
The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox by Maggie O'Farrell |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Interesting story by British author O'Farrell about a young girl who finds out she has an aunt who is being dismissed from an "insane asylum" after 60 years --- the only problem is that she didn't even know this aunt existed. Her grandmother (sister of the aunt) has Alzheimer's and her thoughts are muddled, but there's just enough there to get another perspective of the reason the sister was committed. Great story.
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| Kathleen Smith (Lvchoclat@aol.com) |
Never Enough by Joe McGinniss |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is one of those "can't put down" books. It's a true-crime story about the murder of a wealthy husband by his wife. For all parties involved, the amount of money they have is "never enough". Truth is definitely stranger than fiction. Absolutely riveting!
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| F Tessa Bartels |
The Hearse You Came In On by Tim Cockey |
Rating: 3 Stars |
This is a fun mystery series. It's not new, but I just discovered it.
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| Athena Roth |
The Middle Place by Kelly Corrigan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a wonderful book about keeping a sense of humor during rough times and about the amazing relationships and support we can develop with our families.
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| Fran |
No Bones by Anna Burns |
Rating: 1 Stars |
I read approximately 150 pages of its 359 pages before throwing in the towel. I found the book to be very morbid and bleak and I couldn't connect with the characters at all. I guess this one was just not my cuppa tea!
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| Jennifer Wade (jwade4485@aol.com) |
Garden Spells by Sarah Addison Allen |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This book is about relationships, family and neighbors as well as intimacy. There are life lessons to be learned about what is important . It's a great, drawn-back, hard-to-put down book. I'm anxiously awaiting this author's next release.
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| Judy O. |
The Appeal by John Grisham |
Rating: 5 Stars |
This is a disturbing look at the Mississippi Supreme Court --- fictionalized, of course. But, could seats really be purchased by big business? As usual, Grisham makes me think and makes me mad, but he always teaches me something. I'm glad he is back to writing the type of book that he does so well.
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| Marsha Neesley |
The Anatomy of Deception by Lawrence Goldstone |
Rating: 4 Stars |
This is a fascinating blend of forensics and morality in the field of medicine and surgery with a bit of mystery and detecting thrown in the mix. The year is 1889 and the historical and fictional characters will keep you enthralled.
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| Tasha T. |
The Undead Next Door by Kerrylyn Sparks |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A great story --- a wonderful, very nice read! It wasn't as amusing as the rest of the series, but a lot of story in the storyline.
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| Jacklyn Briggs (kcwoman@hotmail.com) |
Forever Odd by Dean Koontz |
Rating: 5 Stars |
The follow up to ODD THOMAS. Even though I thought ODD THOMAS was it, I was wrong. FOREVER ODD fell in line with the first and answered questions left unanswered; it also opened the door for another Odd adventure.
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| Kathy (kboucher@cableone.net) |
Main Street by Sinclair Lewis |
Rating: 5 Stars |
A true "oldie but goodie"! I am so thoroughly enjoying this book; it was written in 1920, and has held up well through several generations. The story of a small Midwestern town as seen through the eyes of a newcomer --- its prejudices, meanness, cruelty, snobbery, and yes, caring and kindness. It is very much like life itself!
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| Jacklyn Briggs (kcwoman@hotmail.com) |
Bag of Bones by Stephen King |
Rating: 4 Stars |
Read this with the lights on. Twist and turns! With Stephen King, I have to go back and reread parts at times, but not with this one. It kept me moving and turning every page. I had to know what was coming next, and at the same time, hated for the book to end.
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| Mary A. (arttech18@yahoo.com) |
Marley & Me by John Grogan |
Rating: 4 Stars |
A sweet story of a man and his life with his furry friend.
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| Summer Dove |
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