This contest period's winners were Deb B. from Omaha, NE; Denise M. from Thousand Oaks, CA; and Gail P. from Fuquay-Varina, NC. Each received a copy of HOLLYWOOD, ENDING by John Green and THE PIRATE QUEEN by Ariel Lawhon.
Rose
The Lowe Job by Grace Alexander
Lili Lowe is caught in a compromising position with her married boss, who is also a politician. Her mother, Lydia, decides to turn this into a star turn for her family by publishing the photos, making her daughter a sensation, and earning the family lots of money. This causes trouble for the other three daughters and their lives take various turns. I don't watch reality TV, but this reminded me a bit of the Kardashians and their rise to fame after publishing a sex tape. In addition to the scandal, an underlying story of jealousy and revenge exists. I wasn't a fan of this family story.
Rose
The Lost Story by Meg Shaffer
Two boys, Jeremy and Rafe, walk out of the woods after missing for months and become known as the lost boys. Jeremy has become famous for helping to locate missing girls, but Rafe has become a recluse. Now, 15 years after the summer they went missing, Emilie asks Jeremy for help finding her sister who has been missing for several years. Jeremy agrees only if Rafe comes along. They must re-enter the woods where they went missing years earlier. Rafe can't remember anything about the time in the woods, but he agrees to return. The woods become a magical place where Rafe and Jeremy rediscover what happened and Emilie discovers the lost story of her sister. A magical story.
Rose
Mexican Gothic by Silvia Moreno-Garcia
This book has all the spooky vibes. Noemí receives a letter from her cousin begging her to come to the secluded mansion where she lives with her new husband and save her. Something is wrong with the mansion, but Noemí doesn't know exactly what it is. She starts having strange dreams and begins sleepwalking. She is nearly a prisoner in the mansion, and the only friend she has is the young son of the family who putters in the garden harvesting mushrooms. She wants to confide in him, but she is unsure where his loyalties lie. Things get stranger and stranger, and her dreams become more disturbing. The true disturbance is what the family reveals to Noemí, and she realizes that she must escape or she will never be able to leave. Truly eerie.
Rose
Helpless by Jessica Knoll
Faye returns to upstate NY for the funeral of a beloved college professor, and uncle of her friend, Campbell. She is concerned she will see her former lover, Henry. The last time she saw him, she left him to pursue her career. She wrote about the incident in a screenplay depicting Henry negatively. Although she is married, she is still attracted to Henry and his sexual domination over her. Faye, an actress and screenwriter, is contemplating a divorce. If she gets divorced, her film role will be given to another actress. She plans to spend time writing a screenplay where she can star in the role. She plans to stay in a cabin near the funeral events to finish it. Lots of graphic sex, and the ending will surprise you! Ambiguous, though.
Rose
It Could Have Been Her by Lisa Jewell
I really enjoyed this story of an older woman deciding to investigate a young teen's disappearance after finding the girl's loose dog. Jane offers to take the dog to its owner in London, but when she arrives at the house, she realizes it is the same place where she was nearly abducted 25 years earlier. Fortunately, the man who answers the door is not the one who tried to abduct her. However, she feels compelled to discover what happened to the teen. The story alternates voices, giving insight into the strange happenings at the house and the story of the teen and her family. It is a psychological thriller with a sinister feel.
Terry
Right Behind Her by Melinda Leigh
Light mystery with many suspects. Can be read without the other books in the series.
Susan
Burial Rites by Hannah Kent
An unusual time and an unusual place - a remote farm in Iceland in the mid 1800s. Agnes, a convicted murderer, was sent to live on a family farm until her execution. The family was not happy to have Agnes live with them, however they had no choice. They learned during Agnes‘s time with them that there was more to her story. The ending was agonizing and quite beautiful. I highly recommend this book.
Darlene
The Black Dahlia by James Ellroy
Not what I thought it would be. It was a fictional novel and rather gory.
Barbara
Code Blue by Fern Michaels
This is another great entertaining story - one of the last written by Fern Michaels. I loved all of Fern's books - she was a great storyteller!
Gail
Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See
Three Chinese women, Moon, Petal and Dove, become unlikely friends in 1870's Los Angeles. Together they survive the “Night of Horrors”, when many of their neighbors and friends die in a mass lynching. Many of the characters are based on real people from the historical record of this event.
Jayme
The Future Saints by Ashley Winstead
A solid 3-star read. It was an interesting look at the cutthroat guts of the music industry, but the characters seemed two-dimensional.
Pam
Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen
A classic piece of literature focusing on a strong woman.
Chris
The Apology by Jimin Han
By far, the best book I've read this year. Fiction. An exploration of family dynamics.
MH
The Fox Wife by Yangsze Choo
This was quite a different book for me. Starting with the premise that foxes could turn into people and with the setting it China, it took a really difficult suspension of disbelief. However, I wanted to see what happened to the poor woman who had lost her child. Oddly, the mistress who is seen as difficult by her family becomes more of a friend to Snow than an employer. She has lots of free time to search for the man responsible for her child’s death.
Jeanne
The Women in White by Sarah Pekkanen
This compelling and informative story of four women recruited into the world of parapsychology on a college campus will stun readers with its accounts of laboratory experiments and relentless psychic tests performed in the name of scientific advancement. Although the characters and events in the book are fiction, author Sarah Pekkanen has led each chapter with authentic quotes from various sources documenting the bizarre and often cruel testing on humans. The four women were motivated by the opportunity to be a part of helping mankind and endured real hardship. The book concludes with an Appendix sure to have readers conducting their own further investigation.
Eileen
John of John by Douglas Stuart
A totally immersive read.
Judy
Caller Unknown by Gillian McAallister
A mother and daughter vacation in Texas and the first night the teenage daughter is taken.
Deby
The One Day You Were My Husband by Rosie Walsh
Not my usual genre, but I enjoyed the suspense and the mystery.
Sharon
News of the World by Paulette Jiles
Interesting historically-based story of a man who reads the news of the world to audiences throughout Texas and is charged with returning a young girl to her family in Castroville, TX. (She was captured and has lived with the Kiowa Indians for several years.) Fascinating contrasts of the White and the Kiowa culture.
Sharon
Call Your Daughter Home by Deb Spera
Excellent book depicting strong females (both Black and White) in the South in 1924. Emancipation was not easy for many of the Blacks as depicted by Retta, cook and housekeeper for the Coles, who once owned her family. Annie Coles has her own business and works to help her youngest son who is not the "man" his father wants; Gertrude is attempting to protect her daughters from their father, a mean, cruel, abusive man.
Sharron
Whistler by Ann Patchett
Wasn’t sure about this book, but ended up really enjoying this character-driven novel. Recommend it highly.
Tessa
Arsenic and Old Books by Miranda James
Book Six in the “Cat in the Stacks” mystery series, featuring Mississippi librarian Charlie Harris and his Maine Coon cat, Diesel. In this episode, Charlie is asked to curate a set of Civil War-era diaries that may contain a family secret with potential ramifications for a current-day political race. I really like this series, mostly because I really like Charlie, who is deliberate and calm in a crisis.
Simonne
This Tender Land by William Kent Krueger
Great coming-of-age story about friendship, brotherhood and survival.
Sheree
Coral Holiday by Jan Moran
This series is okay but predictable. My friend sent me the series and I feel I need to finish it.
Lynn
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
Definitely lives up to the hype!
Lesley
Everything Was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt by Ben Reeves
Death is a tall man named Travis. Who knew? He is used to being the observer, just assisting people in their final moments, but then he meets Dalia and his existence might be changed forever. The novel has such poetic passages about the passing of time, some questions go unanswered, but it is an amusing story.
Beth
The Lies I Tell by Julie Clark
There are two main characters here: Meg, a con artist, and Kat, a journalist bent on exposing her. We see Meg's first con job and how it came to be. We also see why Kat is still so sure she's a bad person even 10 years later. After committing multiple con jobs across the United States, Meg is back in Los Angeles to con the man who stole the mansion that had been in her family for many years. This man, Ron, is now running for political office, and Meg is posing as his realtor. Kat is still upset with Meg, after 10 years, for suggesting that Kat interview a man who ended up raping her. It makes no sense to me that Kat would blame Meg for this, but she does. So Kat goes undercover in order to expose Meg in a newspaper article.
Laura
Country People by Daniel Mason
I loved this book. It is about a 45-year-old man who moves to Vermont with his family. He is still working on his dissertation in Russian Lit and he (and his wife) hope the move from California to Vermont will allow him to settle in and get it done. But, (and you knew there would be one), life in Vermont turns into an unexpected life with a cast of characters that at times made me laugh out loud. It is quirky and fun. If you enjoyed NORTHWOODS, I think you will enjoy this one, too.
Bea
When You Loved Me by Beatriz Williams
Good sequel about a search for treasure and a romance.
Mindy
The Great Wherever by Shannon Sanders
Written very well. I really enjoyed the pleasant ghosts of the past that tied in their stories and helped move the story along. I thought this was a unique way of getting the past and current stories.
Anita
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
This was a wonderful book. I wish I could give it more than 5 stars. It is about an elderly gentleman who lives in New York City and goes to Golden, Georgia to stay for a year. No one knows why. He only gives his first name, Theo. While visiting a coffee shop, he notices portraits done by a local artist of local people. He decides to purchase them and gift them to the people in the pictures. This seems very odd to the local people, but he is so likeable he soon makes friends. There is quite a shocking surprise at one point, and I loved this book!
Donna
The Great Wherever by Shannon Sanders
THE GREAT WHEREVER, Shannon Sanders’s debut novel, is a poignant inter-generational family saga set on a haunted farm. This family saga has such a unique premise. I loved getting to know the ghosts. Although they were funny at times, it was quite an emotional journey. I highly recommend THE GREAT WHENEVER to all those who enjoy beautifully-written historical fiction. I promise it will flit right into your heart.
Gerrie
The Memory of Borrowed Books by Meg Anderson
Thanks so much to Landmark for the book! I received this as an ARC and I read it in one sitting. Be prepared to make a few notes as you read because if you are truly a book lover you will find this book speaks to your heart and soul, "You really live with your books, don't you? Not just read them. They're really a part of you, aren't they?" If that dialogue made you yell out "Yes!", then this book will speak deeply to you and take you on a magical journey trying to save a library, solve a mystery and maybe find a new romance. Anderson writes a story that celebrates what those of us who love libraries and our books, and know that libraries are more than just buildings with books, that a library is the beating heart of the community.
Ella
Desolation Mountain by William Kent Kreuger
Classic Kreuger book. Totally enjoyed.
Ella
The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett
Funny, heartbreaking and learned more about prostitutes that I ever wanted to know (but in a good way). Also, we think women have come a long way, but so many stereotypes and prejudice remain.
Ella
Skylark by Paula McLain
This author never disappoints. Thoroughly enjoyed this book.
Kathy
The Elements by John Boyne
This book was difficult to read because it dealt with child abuse. Many in my book club could not finish it. However, I thought it was an amazing novel, so well crafted. It looked at the subject matter from different points of view and consisted of four interconnected stories. I highly recommend the book.
Kathy
Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See
Lisa See is always an excellent choice for historical fiction. She brings well-researched stories to life. This was a story of several Chinese woman sold by their families to be brought to Los Angeles. It's a brutal story, but one of resilience. I recommend the book highly!
Elizabeth
The Loneliness of Sonia and Sunny by Kiran Desai
How to describe this book? It’s dreamlike and magical. I didn’t always get the references, but the author paints such a picture of these haunting places, mostly in India, that I fell into them while reading. It was hard to keep the more minor characters straight though. It also was quite funny in parts.
Leslie Kathy
Properties of Thirst by Marianne Wiggins
The backdrop of this story is the internment of the Japanese in central California, but other major themes included the diversion of water from the agricultural area to Los Angeles and French cooking and even some old-time Hollywood film making...a lot to think about. The author's writing style was a bit unusual - sometime short, choppy sentences as the thought process might be written and other times longer, more descriptive sentences. It took some getting used to. The characters were well developed; the pace of the book was sometime slow, but overall it was an interesting read.
Vicki
Pompeii by Robert Harris
I loved the story about the aqueduct engineer and all the people he met, and the interesting way the author wove him into the story.
Lynda
Evil Eye by Etaf Rum
An in-depth characterization of a woman who experiences "generational trauma," unhealed psychological wounds that are passed down in families. Yara's parents immigrated from Palestine to America and raised her with traditional Arab values. Yara reaches a crisis point where she needs to find her own identity and independently move forward. A very moving story.
Donna
The Birthing Tree by Amanda Peters
Beautifully-written story that focuses on women, family, tradition and long-buried secrets.
Peri
The Lost Baker of Vienna by Sharon Kurtzman
Many books are written about the Holocaust and WWII. However, I have never come across books written about the aftermath. What was it like to live in Europe amid the destruction, shortages, starvation and trying to reconnect with family members and friends after the war? This book tells of that situation. In 2018, Zoe Rozensweig decides to investigate just that when her beloved grandfather dies. She discovers her relative Chana who, in 1948, was barely hanging on, trying to reestablish herself as a baker.
Rosa
How to Read a Book by Monica Wood
Violet made a poor choice several years ago when she got involved with Troy. Consequently, she gets in a car accident and kills Lorraine, a kindergarten teacher. She spends 22 months in prison where there is a book club coordinated by retired teacher Harriet. Frank is the widower who was left behind by Lorraine. These three characters form an unlikely friendship. This is a story about forgiveness and redemption. It is also a book about books, to be appreciated by book lovers. So heartwarming.
Sandy
The Secrets We Hide by Karin Slaughter
This one took me awhile to read. I thought it would be a little easier to figure out, but the ending was surprising.
Joanne
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
Great reading. Included personalities and their interactions with human conditions, art, architecture. Kindness was shown in many ways, and there was a surprising end.
Sally-Jo
The Personal Librarian by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
The story of J. P. Morgan's personal librarian, Belle da Costa Greene, a dynamic woman who had to hide her true identity (race) because of the time she lived in. I loved how assertive and strong she had to be to survive.
Eileen
Etna by Paul Joon
Poignant story about war and its aftermath told through the perspective of a dog.
Liz
The Midnight Library by Matt Haig
Nora’s life is in a downward spiral and she can’t take it anymore. She decides to end it all, and when she does at exactly the stroke of midnight she finds herself in a library. All the books there are regrets for her life and she now has the opportunity to go back in time and she what her other lives would like if she made different choices. I found this to be a very different type of story, which was way out of my wheelhouse, but I enjoyed it very much. It gives you a lot to think about.
Carol
House of Flame and Shadow by Sarah J. Maas
I have been reading the entire Crescent City Trilogy over the last week of August and now into September. I just finished Book 3 and am so glad it is done! I am looking forward to the new releases coming and understood that I needed to read this trilogy before reading the new books. Being in this world is crazy and fun. Fae and wolves and many other mystical creatures keep us on our toes, anxious and yet it is so enjoyable. I highly recommend this series if you haven't read it yet. High fantasy and fun.
Beth
Get Lost by Justin Halpern
I liked the interplay of the characters, although I would have liked to see more development of the main character. Halpern does create witty characters in outlandish situations. I laughed but also cringed.
Susan
Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth
I always enjoy reading Sally Hepworth's books and this one is no exception! This book is different than other book of her's as the main character is an 81-year-old woman.
Debbie
The Mad Wife by Meagan Church
THE MAD WIFE by Meagan Church immediately caught my attention. So much mention of S & H Green stamps and the joy involved in redeeming the stamp books for merchandise. The rules of daily life for a suburban housewife brought smiles on my face. My mother reigned as one of those housewives - the telephone call by a husband’s secretary telling the wife to stop everything and have a gourmet dinner ready for his boss. The neighborhood women meet once a week to play Spades when the children are taking a nap. But no baby-sitter watching the children, very careless treatment of children. What is the price of this regimented life? A doctor’s prescription on Miltown. Church employs many lines written by Sylvia Plath.
Debbie
An Inside Job by Daniel Silva
AN INSIDE JOB by Daniel Silva points at the inner working of the Vatican and the masterpieces of the art world with looks at organized crime and the world of international intelligence. Too much use of Italian names and villages and restaurants, they seem to run together. But the story needed these undeciphered names to create the story. A unguarded peek at valuable treasures hidden in plain sight. The detail of work done by Gabriel Allon in restoring old masterpieces shows that nothing of substance may be hurried. How many other lost objects of art remain in private hands or are hidden from the public?
Luella
The Friday Bookshop by Sawako Natori
A unique story of a small group of an owner and their employees at a bookshop who form a special bond and become a family of sorts. It's different but piques your interest.
Jennifer
Dolly All the Time by Annabel Monaghan
With a setting that painted a lovely picture, friendships and family relationships that were fraught, yet realistic, and characters you care about and root for, this book was a treat to read. I especially enjoyed the relationship that developed between Stewart and Gus.
Margaret
Sipsworth by Simon Van Booy
Delightful small book about an 83-year-old grieving widow who finds new meaning in life when she finds herself caring for a mouse. Even if you are squeamish about mice you will be rooting for this one. When heroic measures are taken to save a life (the mouse’s), a twist is revealed that you don’t see coming!
Jeanne
One Perfect Storm by Carley Fortune
ONE PERFECT STORM by Carley Fortune is a well-written, enjoyable story about two lifelong best friends, Frankie and George. When Frankie’s fiancé dumps her right before the wedding, George steps in and picks up the pieces. He takes Frankie on what was to be her honeymoon, and on their journey it unleashes intense emotions and feelings that were so heartfelt, I felt as though I was right there on the trip with them. When they discover that their relationship has to change from childhood friends to adults, and their feelings and love for one another exist, it’s magical. The author is to be commended for her writing style and capturing these moments. To me it was like a fairy tale.
Rose
Flashlight by Susan Choi
This is a powerful novel of a Korean man, Serk, born in Japan in post-war Asia. His family returns to Korea, but he refuses. Later, in 1978, he is married to an American woman and has a daughter, Louisa. While walking on a beach, Serk disappears, and Louisa is found on the beach alone. Believing he drowned, Louisa and her mother, Anna, return to the U. S. Years later, the truth of what happened is revealed. This is a story of grief and its aftermath, along a historical backdrop of a divided Korea. Very interesting and emotional.
Rose
Crash Into Me by Robinne Lee
Cecilia Chen is trying to figure out her marriage after her husband had an affair. The family moves from Paris to Los Angeles so he can pursue his career. Cecilia crashes her car into the car of Anouk, a model that she knew from years earlier. As Cecilia and Anouk become close, they begin an affair. Cecilia explores this new relationship while considering how to continue in her marriage.
I enjoyed THE IDEA OF YOU by this author, but I didn't really like this one. Cecilia was angry with her husband for cheating on her, yet she cheated on him. She feels betrayed by people at the end - and I could not have cared less.
Rose
Mountains Beyond Mountains by Tracy Kidder
Dr. Paul Farmer grew up poor, but proved a worthy student, attending Harvard Medical School and graduating with excellent grades. But, his heart was in ministering to the poor and the sick, and he made sure to listen to his patients, offering the best in care, even for those who could not afford to pay. Farmer spent the majority of his time in Haiti, creating the foundation, Partners in Health, along with Ophelia Dahl and other benefactors, to provide healthcare for the destitute. Due to his work, many, many people were saved. He traveled to Cuba, Russia, and Peru, as well as throughout the U.S. and Paris, where his wife and daughter lived. I was blown away by this man's charity and selfless love for every human.
Jane
Murder in the Marquee by Dana Mentink
Who done it all the way through. People disappear but no bodies can be found! A duck parade every day through the hotel. Saul took job to try and turn his life around. Kitty, is a young lady who doesn't want to be who her parents want her to be. She has her own dreams. Saul wants to reform and stay out of trouble to please his wife. Henry, the elevator man, wants to be on stage. Everything isn't as it seems.
Muriel
This Changes Everything by Lisa Scottoline
The plot moved along nicely with realistic conversations and interactions among the characters. The reader gets to know each well. As far as plot, tensions were heightened when Courtney was accused of her grandmother’s murder. Julia had to turn to whatever resources she could, even psychic powers, to help her best friend prove her innocence. Julia used those powers in a previous book to solve her first husband’s murder. It’s not necessary to have read that book to be comfortable with this one. I wasn't bothered by Julia’s ability to tap into inner resources others may share but not understand. Lastly, I liked the way Lisa’s book was centered on longtime friendships and family. Both add another dimension and quality to our lives.
Amy
The Half Life by Rachel Beanland
I really enjoyed THE HALF LIFE by Rachel Beanland. I loved the characters and the way the story unfolded, and I found myself really invested in their lives. It was an emotional and beautifully-written story that kept me interested from beginning to end.
Amy
The Foursome by Christina Baker Kline
I didn’t really care for THE FOURSOME by Christina Baker Kline. It was okay, but I never felt very invested in the story or the characters. I finished it, but it wasn’t a book that really stood out to me.
Liz
What We Found Instead by Heidi Reimer
Thank you Netgalley for this audio. Unbeknownst to either of them, Maggie and Eve are both in love with Karl. Up until now he has been able to keep his two lives separate. Once the women learn about each other and after a very rocky start, they become friends and prepare to move on without Karl. Things happen and when Karl reappears their lives are upended once again. This is a story about forgiveness, faithfulness, complex relationships and the power of female friendship. The narrator of this story drew you right in, with just subtle changes to her voice. You felt thrust into the middle of all the turmoil going on.
Julie
The Daffodil Days by Helen Bain
A fictional look at a period in the lives of Sylvia Plath and Ted Hughes when they settled in the small town of Court Green.
Terry
The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett
I enjoyed the characters and the writing. The audiobook was excellent.
Betty
Whistler by Ann Patchett
I liked the characters very much, especially Eddie. Good book to discuss with book group.
Wanda
Apostle's Cove by William Kent Krueger
A haunting mystery that is a page-turner during which one continues to wonder who done it. A mix of family, relationships and life of many over a 25-year span. William Kent Krueger is one of the best novelist that can bring it all together.
Cynthia
Good Joy, Bad Joy by Mikki Brammer
Joy has lived a long life and outlived just about everyone she knows. She’s led a good quiet life since her husband passed. She’s has her best friend left and her daughter and grandson. She tries her best to be good. Joy all the time and sometimes things go bad!
Joanne
Remain by M. Knight Shamalyan and Nicholas Sparks
I enjoyed reading this book about an architect who sees a dead woman in the house where he is staying. He desperately wants to help her, for it is obvious that she is troubled and confused about her circumstances. Wren is struggling to understand what happened to her, and Tate is struggling to cope with the death of his sister Sylvia. I can't wait to see the movie in February and see if it truly captures the essence of this story.
PJ
These Ancient Bones by Heather Graham
Shelly and Grant make the perfect partners for investigating curse tablets and whoever is behind them. The agents meet at a crime scene in St. Augustine, Florida where it appears that an activist for the little guy is brutally murdered and set on fire. But all it not what it seems. Shelly and others have paranormal powers that can "see" what others have seen before they die and leave behind a sense of what has happened. The book is very well written, and the twists and turns in Florida and also in Italy make it seem as though there are nefarious forces in both countries. I totally enjoyed this book and will search out the first in the series and also the next book when it comes out.
Judy
How to Get Away With Murder by Rebecca Philipson
A young girl is found murdered under a tree with initials carved in it and a how to get away with murder book beside her. Good book!
Denise
The Incredible Kindness of Paper by Evelyn Skye
The cover has an irresistible charm that drew me in, and I'm quite surprised this book hasn't received more attention. It is a sweet, kind, magical and hopeful read. I loved following the main character as she found her way toward the life and love that were right for her. A touching love story and the kind of happiness I hope for those I care about. It is undeniably sentimental; it left me with a sense of hope and a wish to find an incredible kindness of paper of my own.
Sharon
Lady Tremaine by Rachel Hochhauser
Cinderella told from perspective of the stepmother. Great story and believable!
Kathleen
Memorial Days by Geraldine Brooks
Very well written, insightful regarding the grieving process.
Judi
The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett
Engaging, intelligent and resourceful female characters coping with the Deppression in Mississippi combined to make this a wonderful read!
Lisa
In Every Possible Way by Alicia Thompson
Magical realism. Good story. Slow at times.
Delores
Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty
I loved this book! After a woman goes missing you learn a lot about her family during this time and if the husband had anything to do with it. And what she dealt with. Very intriguing but it was somewhat long.
Delores
Call After Midnight by Tess Gerritsen
Suspenseful thriller about a woman who is told by the State Department her husband is dead after only being married two months. Then she finds out he was not who he said he was and so she goes searching for answers.
Terri
The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett
Wonderful book! Could not put it down. Have given as gifts to several people. Hope the movie comes out soon.
Judy
The Pirate Queen by Ariel Lawhon
Listened to it. Readers are excellent and the story is great historical fiction.
Jan
Heart the Lover by Lily King
Enjoyable read. I like the second half of the book better than the first half.
sydney
Stoner by John Williams
This is a very special story. A classic.
Sharon
Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth
I am a member of two book groups and both groups loved the book. I, personally, felt that lessons were taught in a humorous, yet serious way. Some of Mabel’s actions were due to her unhappy and challenged childhood, but she always was a character who learned something new each day. One was compassion and another was understanding of those who surrounded her.
JoAnn
Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See
Another great book by Lisa See.
Dege
The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout
This is a book that makes you think - the impact that even our ordinary lives can have! The characters are so relatable, and the prose so quotable!! I sped through it in two days, and then was sad to leave it!
Jenny
Neve To Be Found by Jo Spain
The Japanese practice of Johatsu, where people voluntarily vanish from their lives, is a real business, and Jo Spain explores it in her book, NEVER TO BE FOUND. Some people just need to start over, and one British women brings this business back home to England. She's good at her job, and there is a reason why. She knows what she does is in the "morally gray" area, but she would never do something terrible, like help a criminal escape. Until one day she unwittingly helps a murderer. The race is on to correct her mistake, but can she? This book doesn't have a U.S. release date yet, but has been released widely on e-readers. The show runner for "The Walking Dead" purchased the film rights. Spain is a screen writer, and the book shows it.
Debbie
The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
THE FIRST LADIES by Marie Benedict and Victoria C. Murray reeks of sensational news. Eleanor Roosevelt shows as a weak female who allows her mother-in-law to control her life. This mother-in-law, Sara Ann Delano Roosevelt, convinced Eleanor not to seek divorce over the affair between Lucy Mercer and Franklin. The authors display Mary Mcleod Bethune as a powerful force, even though a Black woman. Mary started a school and received financial support for her school from wealthy and powerful men. The fictional account of these two women missed the mark, the story was weak with too much dialogue. A similar book by Vanessa Miller, THE LADIES HALL, another fictional account of two remarkable women, illustrates a better understanding.
Terry
Paper Ghosts by Sarah Addison Allen
Beginning of the story is full of teenage dialogue, somewhere in the middle the story clicks.
Ginny
Whistler by Ann Patchett
One of those books I did not want to see end because I was still enjoying the characters.
Jana
The True Meaning of Love by Danielle Steel
Loved this book about the Ukrainian War. She really knocked it out of the park!
Sandra
It Girl by Allison Pataki
Disturbing story of the rich taking advantage of the poor.
Abby
Skylark by Paula McLain
Interesting dual timeline story taking place in Paris in the 1660s and the early 1940s. Both storylines worked for me. The tunnels underneath Paris are the link between the stories.
Sheila
Florence Adler Swims Forever by Rachel Beanland
Excellent character development and truly immersive in the time period. I was surprised by the storyline. The title was a bit misleading.
Sheila
Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder by Caroline Fraser
A nonfiction book club choice. It won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize for Biography and the National Book Critics Award. It's an all-encompassing tale of Laura, her family, politics, ecology, etc. The book contrasts the idealized life in the "Little House" series with the gritty, often impoverished reality of her actual life. At 515 pages, it was not a summer beach read! And not all in my group finished it since it had so much detail. But it did enlighten us on the time period and the ecological effects of mass farming on the Prairie, among other things. A worthwhile read, but we only could recommend it to true history lovers.
Jackie
A Talent for Murder by Peter Swanson
A TALENT FOR MURDER is a gripping page-turner that will keep you hooked well into the night just to see who done it.
Lynn
Birds of Prey by Editors: Harlan Coben and C.J. Box
A mixed bag of short stories by a select group of mystery writers.
Francisca
Go Tell It on the Mountain by James Baldwin
This novel was Baldwin’s first major work. Published in 1953, it tells of one day in the life of John Grimes, a 14-year-old stepson of a fire-and-brimstone preacher in 1930s Harlem. It is semi-autobiographical in that Baldwin mined his own Harlem childhood. I love character-driven novels, and Baldwin excels in bringing the reader into John’s mind. I feel his outrage, despair, hope, fear, and joy.
Pauline
Atmosphere by Taylor Jenkins Reid
This book ia a loving tribute to the challenges and choices that make an astronaut. The lives they live and the NASA rules that determine their fate are a big part of this story as one follows the lives of Joan and Vanessa as they search for meaning.
Helene
My Friends by Fredrik Backman
One of the most beautifully-written books I have ever read. I think it’s his best. There’s so much beauty and pain, humanity and humor in it. And so many of his perfect sentences that sum up what could have taken several paragraphs.
Valerie
The Survivors Guild by Gabriella Saab
This novel went beyond the sinking of the Titanic with a story of two women, one a socialite and one a Lebanese immigrant, who survived and bonded by saving an infant from that fateful night. Once in New York, they start the Survivors Guild to help fellow survivors. They fight against family and societal expectations to find personal fulfillment. Loved this novel of friendship.
Carol
All Her Beautiful Deaths by A. Rushby
What an incredible read! Allison Rushby has written a beautiful, very haunting story that captivates the reader from its very beginning. This Gothic, historical novel is not my usual genre to read and is a first by this author. I was drawn to its subject, Victorian Memorial Photography, and the mystery that surrounding its followers.
Michele
The Berry Pickers by Amanda Peters
Great family story with lots of twists and turns.
Ann
The Way by Carey Groner
Very good post-apocalyptic novel.
Lee
Operation Bounce House by Matt Dinniman
Fantastic science fiction novel. Colonists fighting off an invasion from Earth.
Deb
The Things We Never Say by Elizabeth Strout
Elizabeth Strout never disappoints! I love her ability to write her characters as everyday people like you and me with real life problems and emotions. You just fall in love with Artie and how he handles all of the feelings and life's issues with grace. Loved this book so much!
Rose
Nothing But the Truth by Holly James
On the eve of her 30th birthday, Lucy Green sits at a bar waiting for her boyfriend to arrive. The bartender offers to make Lucy a new drink and she wishes for the best day for her birthday. When she wakes up, knowing she has an important meeting with a client and might receive a well-deserved promotion, she suddenly decides not to conform to expectations like wearing high heels, lots of makeup, or a tight-fitting suit. She dresses comfortably, shocking everyone at the firm with her appearance. Then, the big boss makes a pass at her and she rejects him. While speaking with her work pal, she realizes she can only tell the truth, which she attributes to the drink she had and the wish she made. Entertaining, but a little preachy.
Rose
Cece Downing's Start Over Summer by Soon Wiley
Cece recently lost her job as an actuary, told her fiancé that she didn't want to get married, and moved into an old pool shack because she had nowhere else to go. She has a crush on the man who lives a few houses away, and now works at an oyster farm. She must win over her co-workers who doubt her capabilities. When her fiancé continues to reach out, she decides to give him another chance. She accompanies him to his high school reunion where she discovers some disturbing information. This is a novel about a person searching for and finding themselves, rather than merely following a conventional path.
Rose
Dead Girls First by Zia Rayyan
Five years have passed since Jessica discovered the bodies of her brother, Marco, and his wife, Theresa, dead in their home, with their baby Dalia crying in the other room. Theresa was Jessica's best friend, and in addition to losing her brother and best friend, Dalia was given to another friend to raise. Jessica sees visions of Theresa and converses with her about the murder. Jessica feels guilt over the murders because she didn't answer Theresa's call that night; instead, she was with the brother of the couple's accused murderer. Now, the accused is dead and his brother swears that the accused was innocent. Jessica wonders if this is true, and with two friends she met at a grief counseling session, she does some pretty crazy things.
Rose
Strangers in the Night by Heather Webb
This book provides insight into the life and love of Frank Sinatra and Ava Gardner. It begins with their initial meeting. Frank was enamored, Ava was not. They meet several years later and the spark bursts into flame. However, Frank was married to Nancy and had small children. Nancy didn't want to grant the divorce. Frank's career spiraled downward, and he became depressed.
Frank and Ava do marry, but their marriage is marked by jealousy, infidelity, drinking, and arguments. Although their relationship was volatile, they loved each other deeply, each claiming that the other was the love of their life. An interesting look at two Hollywood stars. I enjoyed it since I like both of these personalities. It made me sad they couldn't make it.
Joann
The Amateur by Chris Bohjalian
For me, THE AMATEUR was more than a compelling whodunnit. As the death of a young golf caddie was investigated, dark secrets about Mira and her family were revealed. I kept telling myself, that I would read just one more chapter! Each of those chapters told the story of the bad choices that were made by a young rising star, rejection and the trial and verdict. Read on to find out who or what was to blame.
Luella
In My Own Time by Christopher Lloyd
Excellent book. A breath of fresh air. Real life, real experiences, just open, honest memories.
Bobbie
The Half Life by Rachel Beanland
Good characters and interesting story about Navy submarine families located in small town in Italy. Major concerns about what might leak from the nuclear subs. Author previous wrote FLORENCE ADLER SWIMS FOREVER, which I liked as well.
Sharron
Whistler by Ann Patchett
Didn’t think I would like this book, but I really enjoyed it. It is a character-driven story of everyday people in strained relationships.
Debbie
If We Were Villains by M. L. Rio
IF WE WERE VILLAINS overwhelms the reader with excessive lines from Shakespeare. The greatest fault rests in the absence of footnotes telling which play and what act and scene. The lines from Shakespeare closely followed the novel, but blogged down the narrative. The problem and reason for Oliver being in prison does not enter the story until much later. Of seven individuals enrolled in an Illinois school for the Arts, terrible events push these seven young adults to the breaking point. These Shakespearean want-to-be actors spend night and day living Shakespeare works. They exist in a fantasy world filled with drugs, alcohol, and sex. Such depravity pulls these students into Dante’s Inferno and some do not escape.
Ruthanne
Lilac Ink by Jean Grainger
This is the first in the Knocknashee Series by this (little known in the USA ) Irish author. Her books are reminiscent of Maeve Binchy. I thoroughly enjoyed this story set in Ireland pre-WWII. Starts the story of a young woman with a handicapped leg and her sister who treats both her and the children she teaches very harshly while concealing a secret. Once you start Grainger books, you are hooked!
Ruthanne
Yesterday's Paper by Jean Grainger
The second book in the Knocknashee Series delves more closely into WWII approaching while the main character develops a pen pal relationship with an American journalist. The town's other residents stories continue to evolve as well. Again Grainger's books make you want to keep reading the next book in this six book series.
Linda
Under the Falls by Richard Russo
A story of longtime friends in a small town, secrets from their childhood and an accident that eventually leads to truths and sadness.
Elizabeth
The Munich Affair by James Patterson and David Ellis
Great historical fiction about Hitler's private world and his ascent to power. One of Patterson's best books in my opinion.
Ann
We Chase Shadows by Richard Osman
British humor in a fast-paced plot.
Suzy
The Magician's Nephew by C. S. Lewis
I'm a huge fan of C.S. Lewis now after reading this sixth book in the seven book Narnia series. Beautiful imagery and lovely stories, I'm fully aware of some of the controversy about who and what the various characters represent. I choose to read these books as simple stories of good vs. evil. It's easy to find more in them, if you want to, and as I start the seventh book I am thinking more philosophically than I was while reading the first few books. I don't recommend them for children unless they are advanced readers and at least a little bit analytical.
Sandy
The Last to Drown by Noelle W. Ihli
One of the best I have read in a long time. Got nothing done yesterday but reading!!
Denise
Clutch by Emily Nemens
What stood out to me most about this book was the beauty and strength of the friendships formed in college. Through life's challenges and difficult moments, these friends continued to show up for one another. It was a beautiful reminder that the friendships we make early in life can become some of our greatest sources of strength and support.
Denise
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
What an incredibly beautiful, sweet, and kind book. There were moments of sadness that hit hard, but they were woven into such a thoughtful and tender story. I heard your interview with the author and really appreciated his warmth and the person he seems to be. I wasn’t surprised to find that his book was just as respectful, thoughtful, and full of heart.
Debbie
The House on Ember Row by Bill Keenan
THE HOUSE ON EMBER ROW by Bill Keenan presents an interesting story about wealth and power. What makes this novel outshine other books rests in the eloquent language of Bill Keenan. The characters and the settings supply many memorable scenes: the opulence of Ellison’s house, the beauty of the ocean, the terrible snowstorm. And, of course, the dimensional characters: Lawrence Ellison, James Wren, Evelyn Mercer, Quinn Whitaker, and Gordon. The brief chapters push to reader to continue reading, very similar to the writing of James Patterson, but Keenan does a better job. The words and descriptions remind me of Andrew Klavan, the reader is transported into the story. Quinn Whitaker reigns as a complicated individual.
Sean
Fractured by Karin Slaughter
Karin Slaughter is very good creating deplorable villains, relatable heroes, and real characters. All of those are on full display in this second in the Will Trent series. Will finds himself working with a new temporary partner from the APD, Faith, who brings her own bag of issues. Together they are trying to solve murders, a kidnapping, and more. The book does such a good job of taking you down the detectives path without making anything obvious, but when it clicks it all clicks. This book is also incredibly sad as we learn more about Will's childhood and current struggles along with what happens to those left behind. Overall, the book was extremely entertaining.
Rose
The Storyteller's Death by Ana Davila Cardinal
Isla's father becomes ill and her mother sends her to Puerto Rico to stay with her grandmother and great aunt. When she returns to New Jersey, she finds that her father died. Because of his death, her mother couldn't afford to send Isla to the private school she had attended, so Isla must now attend a public school. Her mother drinks heavily, which embarrasses Isla and makes her worry. Her mother sends Isla to Puerto Rico each summer where she hears tales of the family history. These tales are not shared openly; rather, they come to Isla in dreams, after her grandmother's death, when Isla is 18. Isla realizes that the gift of storytelling has now passed to her. Dead storytellers come to life acting out their stories in front of Isla.
Rose
Rachel to the Rescue by Elinor Lipman
This book is quite humorous! When Rachel is fired from her White House job, she sends a critical email about Trump to a large group instead of her friend. She gets hit by a car while leaving, and the driver was rushing to the WH to secretly meet with Trump. Rachel gets offered money to make the story go away, but she refuses. As she recovers from her injuries, she takes a job as an aide to a journalist who writes books defaming the president. She has a crush on the local wine store guy, and her roommates encourage her to act on it. As she works through the job, more details about the driver come to light, and Rachel might be able to take down the president with what she knows. A fun satire! The cover of this book is perfect!! So clever!
Rose
The Escape Game by Marissa Meyer and Tamara Moss
This YA murder mystery is framed by a reality TV series where contestants must solve cryptic puzzles to break out of escape rooms. However, season 4 ended when one of the contestants was found murdered. Now that season 5 is filming, the new contestants have formed teams and they are suspicious of Sierra, the sister of the dead contestant. They believe Sierra killed her sister, which she denies. The escape room scenario was fun, but many of the puzzles seemed extraordinarily difficult. The mystery and the killer reveal was surprising, but understandable. Not sure that I will read the second book in the series.
Rose
That Night by Gillian McAllister
While on vacation in Italy, Frannie calls her siblings and begs for their help. She hit a man with her car and he is dead. She refuses to let them call an ambulance, saying that she will go to prison and her young son will grow up without her. She convinces them to help her bury the body, reminding them they had all seen this man in the market and confronted him that day. They agree to keep this a secret. However, the cover-up causes them to unravel. They wonder if the other siblings can keep telling the lie. They wonder why Frannie was so adamant about not calling for help. They wonder if they can trust each other. As their lives spiral out of control, they look for a way out. I don't think I would bury a body for anyone!
Rose
With Friends Like You by Amy Chozick
Emily is a new mother to baby Holden, and lives with her Aussie husband in NYC. She feels exhausted and misses her dreams of becoming a poet. She reminisces about her college friend, Daisy, and decides she needs to find her. Daisy dropped out of college, became a sex worker and took drugs, which caused a rift in their friendship. After unsuccessfully searching for Daisy, Emily is surprised when Daisy appears next to her at the park one day. Daisy is living in a high rise building paid for by a wealthy foreigner, probably money laundering. Daisy convinces Emily to use the building as a pseudo daycare and spa for her mom friends. You keep waiting for something to happen, and when it does, oh my!! I didn't see that coming at all! Shocking!
Rose
Nightshade by Michael Connelly
Detective Stilwell has been sent from LA to Catalina Island due to police politics. He receives a call about poaching and begins investigating. Then, he hears that a body has been found in the harbor, weighted down and in a bag. He notices a key clue: a purple streak in the woman's hair. However, he is no longer on the homicide squad so he needs to investigate it some other way. He determines that the woman was fired from her job at a private club, and she stole a piece of art when she left. He pursues the theft angle while trying to untangle the murder mystery. I really enjoyed this first book in a new series.
Rose
Our Last Wild Days by Anna Bailey
Loyal May returns to Jacknife, LA to care for her mother who is exhibiting signs of dementia. She is a journalist, and when she left town at 18, she wrote a story about the Labasque family that betrayed her best friend Cutter Labasque. The Labasques are alligator hunters and have had their share of misfortune. Now, Cutter has been found face down in the swamp and no one seems to care but Loyal. She feels guilty over the article, and regrets that she can never apologize to Cutter. So, she decides to solve Cutter's murder. Working with the local paper staff, she ruffles feathers until she discovers why Cutter was killed. The swamps of Louisiana and the desperation of the town and its people came through very well in this novel.
Rose
The Ascent by Allison Buccola
Lee, formerly Ophelia, is married to Leo and they have an infant daughter, Lucy. Lee grew up in a cult and when she was 12, all the members left her behind. She was found wandering on a road, and none of the others were ever found. She stuck to her story that she was asleep when they left. After this event, she lived with her aunt and her family. However, she always wondered why she was left behind. Lee is extremely protective of Lucy, not wanting anyone else to stay with her. A new program about the cult is being broadcast and Lee is scared that Theo will find out about her past. Then, a woman approaches her claiming to be Lee's sister, Mona. Lee invites Mona into their home against Theo's wishes. Shocking twists!
Rose
Girl, Interrupted by Susanna Kaysen
Susanna Kaysen spent time in a mental institution as a teen, and she recounts the stories of what she and others experienced. This book shines a light on mental health, diagnoses, and treatment.
A short book that highlighted a very real issue.
Kathy
Tailspin by John Armbruster
This is a nonfiction book about a young man, Gene Moran, from Wisconsin who survived a four mile fall in the tail section of a B17 bomber during WWII. It chronicles his life before, during, and after the war. It's an amazing story of perseverance, family, and friendship.
Joline
Daughters of the Sun and Moon by Lisa See
Lisa See never disappoints! This is another wonderful novel about the lives of three very different Chinese women who immigrate to Los Angeles in 1870. I learned so much of the history of Asian immigrants to California who faced violence and hardship.
Michelle
A Hymn to Life by Gisele Pelicot
One of the most important books of the year I will read. What a horrible, wretched thing her husband did to her, a person she had been with for five decades. I am so glad she told her story in her own words. Her unwavering strength and ability to push forward is incredible.
Chris
Blue Ticket by Sophie Mackintosh
Fiction. Thought-provoking. A slow start. Excellent choice for a book group.
Barbara
Falling for Peachtree Bluff by Kristy Woodson Harvey
I loved going back to Peachtree Bluff! Kristy makes you feel like you are part of the town, and the characters seem so real. I didn't want this one to end. A great fall read!
Paula
Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy
Suspenseful read with interesting characters and plot twists. I enjoyed this book!
Karen
In Wonderland by Joyce Maynard
Coming-of-age and feels very personal.
Wanda
Wheels of Murder: The 1896 Bank Robbery That Shocked a Small Prairie Town by Jeffrey M. Suave
WHEELS OF MURDER delivers a thrilling true crime account of the 1896 bank heist in Sherburn, Minnesota. The narrative tracks the lead robber's getaway and the intense 150-mile pursuit that followed. The author's skillful blend of factual history with the tension of a gripping thriller makes this a great read. I'd recommend it to fans of suspense and the true crime genre.
Vesna
City of Widows by Nadia Hashimi
Loved this follow up to THE PEARL THAT BROKE ITS SHELL. Deep dive into to utter hardships and struggles that women were faced with in a country that did not value women. Well written, learned a lot about this never-ending fight women have to be seen and heard, and most of all to save their children.
Sue
Everything was Beautiful and Nothing Hurt by Ben Reeves
Not an easy book to read. Travis is death and he’s not happy about it. Any book about death is going to have sad parts. This book is full of them. The book flits about from character to character making it difficult to follow at times, but overall an interesting read and lesson in how to live life.
Kelly
Fallen for France by Elizabeth Letts
Interesting story of colonial soldiers from Morocco and Algiers in World War I. As in all of this author’s books, an incredible horse is a part of the story.
Linda
Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister
Camille Deschamps returns from maternity leave and is shocked when police arrive at her office. Her husband Luke is holding a gun on three hostages. Cam doesn’t understand. Luke is a writer. Niall Thompson is a hostage negotiator and gets one hostage released. Then two shots ring out. Luke is never found. Seven years later, Cam is still searching for answers. So is Niall. What really happened to cause a mild-mannered man to hold a gun on others? This was a great book and, once you start reading, you won’t be able to put it down until the last page!
Liz
The Goffle Road Murders of Passaic County: The 1850 Van Winkle Killings by Don Everett Smith, Jr.
This is a fascinating story of the first murders in Passaic County, NJ as well as the first execution. In 1850, Judge Van Winkle and his wife are brutally stabbed to death in the home in Hawthorne, NJ. A former farm hand is caught, tried, found guilty and although until the very end he claimed his innocence. He was hanged. Having lived in this area for many years, it was very interesting to learn about the facts surrounding this crime.
Joan
The Five Wishes of Mr. Murray McBride by Joe Siple
This book is awesome. One of my most favorites ever.
Chris
Sipsworth by Simon Van Booy
Heartwarming. A widow discovers a reason to keep living her life. A wonderful book.
Lynda
The Briar Club by Kate Quinn
This historical fiction novel happens during the 1950s in a town, Foggy Bottom, near Washington DC. Each chapter tells the stories (including secrets) of seven women who are staying at a boarding house. The novel is also a murder mystery. I loved the ending where each character's roles in the murders is revealed. And I learned about the McCarthy era from the story and the Author's Note.
Denise
Whistler by Ann Patchett
The impact of a parental relationship can be incredibly powerful. I really loved Eddie's character and the relationship he shared with Daphne. Their connection was one of my favorite parts of the book.
Linda
Culpability by Bruce Holsinger
Started well but down hill from there! Not one character was likeable -- too many orchestrated scenes. Have liked his books before -- this was not up to his writing standards or character development.
Emily
When Crickets Cry by Charles Martin
A novel that touches the heart deeply.
Vicki
All That’s Unseen by Emilee Hackney
This is a memoir about how Emile, who grew up in Appalachia and was raised Pentecost, went on to go to Harvard.
Jackie
One Wrong Word by Hank Phillippi Ryan
ONE WRONG WORD is a gripping cat and mouse thriller that will definitely keep you guessing at every turn.
Sandy
The Unknown by Riley Sager
In 1926, five women disappeared on a remote island in Vermont. Now many years later it is happening again. There are many rumors about what happened in 1926, but the prevailing opinion thanks to the diary of Daisy Rue, is that a séance gone wrong conjured up something supernatural that took them all one by one. A very intriguing story that will keep you up reading later in the night.
Debbie
The Calamity Club by Kathryn Stockett
Loved this book. Engaging, interesting and well written.
Kathleen
More Than Enough by Anna Quindlin
Well-drawn characters, emotional story with a happy ending. Excellent!
Maureen
The Lost Bookshop by Evie Woods
Loved the three characters and how their lives intertwined with each other.
Donna
Full Bloom by Francesca Serritella
This was an interesting read about life and how the past can affect your future. The idea of perfume and its intoxicating effects on person wearing it and others is very intriguing to the reader. Real estate, New York, money, humble glassblower and more all make this a must-read. Life gets in the way of everything yet somehow we get through it, right?! Enjoy this book - it is worth it, and this coming from a thriller reader!
Carol
Infinite Country by Patricia Engel
I was a bit disappointed by this story. I believe this book is overhyped. It is the tragic story of a broken family due to U. S. immigration laws. Very sad but nothing new or informative. Just a sad, very short book.
Donna
The First Ladies by Marie Benedict and Victoria Christopher Murray
This novel is about the civil justice and equality movement that First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt and civil rights activist Mary McLeod Bethune collaborated on and their friendship where they exchanged their secrets, hopes and concerns. It was an inspiring story of women supporting women and working to change the world. The book is well researched and the storyline provided an excellent book club discussion.
Maryann
The Paris Match by Kate Clayborn
As a believer in true love I enjoyed this book!!
Gabriel
The Swan's Daughter by Roshani Chokshi
THE SWAN'S DAUGHTER had the heirs of an older fairy tale - strange, silly, and dark in equal measure. The world was lush and overflowing with magic that could take any form imaginable, described in vivid prose. The love interest, Prince Arris, was soft, earnest, and deeply in love with life, if a bit airheaded. He and Delmeza's relationship was sweet, with a strong basis of friendship. More than that, I enjoyed how their relationship, along with those of their parents and several side characters, developed a commentary on control, autonomy, and trust within romantic relationships.
Gabriel
Memorial Club by Mozid Mahmud
This wasn't a bad story or a poorly written book, but it just wasn't one that I think will stick with me. There wasn't much that drew me into it and held me or left me thinking about it after I put the book down, though I did get to know more about Bangladeshi culture.
Liz
The Wife Across the Street by James Caine
Thanks NetGalley audio for this book. Sidney and her young son Ollie have escaped an awful life. Sidney hopes to find peace in her new home town, but when she tries to befriend the young mother across the street she realizes things may not be much better here. There are a lot of twists and turns in this psychological thriller; you will be kept guessing until the end. It is a very quick read. The narrator did a very good job with the different voices.
Nancy
Tom Lake by Ann Patchett
I listened to the audiobook with none other than Meryl Streep as narrator - fabulous! The story was a bit slow and there are several "reveals" but no huge secrets or mysteries. Ann Patchett is one of my favorite authors, but TOM LAKE can't rival BEL CANTO for sure.
Debbie
The Pirate Queen by Ariel Lawhon
I loved the book. Lawhon's imagery is impeccable and her characters so well fleshed out. I could see the scenery in my mind, could feel the wind and the mist as I read. It got a four-star rating because of the Celtic Knot format, and Lawhon herself acknowledged that it may prove difficult as an expository tool. I will definitely reread it, and this time follow Grace chronologically. (My ARC was received via NetGalley.)
Nancy
Best Offer Wins by Marisa Kashino
What can I say? Unlike any other book I've read. This was a GMA book club pick, and I heard the author's interview on that show. The premise piqued my interest, but the story and the main character were nothing like I thought they would be. Crazy and fun and unhinged all at the same time.
Nancy
The Frozen River by Ariel Lawhon
Great writing, story, and characters. This was my second time reading this (both times for book clubs) and as often happens, I get more from a story the second go round. I loved the setting and time period. I am not the biggest historical fiction fan, but I commend the author for speaking about the actual "history" and the "fictionalized" history and how she came about writing the story as she did. (This was in the Author's Note section.)
Jeanne
Beach Thriller by Jamie Day
BEACH THRILLER by Jamie Day is twisted and suspense-filled. I thought it was a bit creepy and scary with the “Watcher” lurking about. The author did a good job writing a complex plot with the storyline going back and forth to the past and present-day events. The ending surprised me.
Vera
Culpability by Bruce Holsinger
Family drama where 17-year-old was driving a self-driving car when there was an accident that killed two people. Who was responsible?
Francisca
The Great Divide by Cristina Henríquez
This work of historical fiction centers around the building of the Panama Canal and, particularly, the effects of the project on the local inhabitants of the area. The story involves three main characters, each with different perspectives. The main characters all showed courage and resourcefulness. And while I enjoyed the book, I found myself wishing the author had given me a bit more about the actual engineering project.
Lesley
A Room with a View by E. M. Forster
After reading E. M. Forster's HOWARD'S END, I fell in love with his writing style and depiction of early 20th century. While this novel resembles that work, in my opinion, it is not as well written. What it does have is travel to Italy, the beginnings of breaking down the boundaries which divide the British social classes with a hint at romance. I'd recommend if you are a fan.
Beth
A Fortune of Sand by Ruta Sepetys
Ruta Sepetys, known for her excellent novels for young adults that are enjoyed by adults as well, has finally written a novel for adults, her best yet, A FORTUNE OF SAND. Sepetys writes historical fiction about mostly unknown history, history that has somehow been lost over the years. A FORTUNE OF SAND explores little-known history of Detroit during the 1920s. Although most of the characters are fiction, their world that Sepetys describes is fact. She made up the Lennox family, but even some of the incidents that happen in their Grosse Pointe (a well-to-do suburb of Detroit) home really did happen.
Debbie
Orbital by Samantha Harvey
Science fiction does not interest me, but Samantha Harvey’s ORBITAL provoked many questions. Can you image being in a spaceship for nine months with five other astronauts? Where do you store the food, the clothes, personal belongings, and the scientific experiments? A glimpse at the mundane life of an astronaut. Is this sacrifice beneficial? The novel follows the life and thoughts pf six international astronauts during their nine-month journey of orbiting the earth. So many landscapes described. So amazing to look out the window and witness these events. A little too lengthy.
Debbie
A Cajun Christmas Killing by Ellen Byron
My first experience with Ellen Byron and her Cajun Country series. Of course, I started with book number three in the series, A CAJUN CHRISTMAS KILLING. What a joy to learn of holiday customs in Louisiana. Maggie Crozat, an aspiring artist in New York, returns home to Pelican, Louisiana, to assist her family with their family owned B & B. A rival business man and guest at the Crozat ends up stabbed to death, and everything points to Maggie or her boyfriend, Bo Durand. So many twists and turns and another death. The list of characters runs amok and needs a guide, as everyone seems to be related. I had not realized that haughty attitude in regard to pedigree in Louisiana. Many recipes at the end of the novel redeemed this story.
Debbie
Hallowe'en Party by Agatha Christie
Hercule Poirot remains one of my favorite detectives. Yes, he is very self-absorbed, but he delivers the goods in the end. This story features the murder of a thirteen-year old girl. Why? The girl, Joyce Reynolds, claims to have witnessed a murder. Poor Joyce seals her fate with this boastful claim. Agatha Christie must insert other tidbits to heighten the suspense of the story: forgery, scenic gardens, disappearance of an individual. So many characters and the harsh and breathtaking landscape. The list of potential murderers grows, but Poirot eliminates many from the list and skillfully finds the killer. A fun tale of a scary holiday. Just reread this novel for a book club, so many new clues popped out!
Shelley
Isola by Allegra Goodman
Well written, good story.
Jane
The Memory House by Mary Alford
Suspense abounds. Someone is sneaking into house Elise inherits from her dad. A secret tunnel is hidden along with other things. Reid, a cop, is assigned to keep Elise safe and to help solve the mystery. So many secrets. Who is Ivy? Choices and more choices. Elise's dad didn't treat her like his daughter, treated her like a patient. Her mother got her out of house to protect her. She became her own person. Surprises in store for you.
Deanna
Theo of Golden by Allen Levi
An absolutely beautiful book, with words so thoughtfully chosen and sentences that flow like music. As it says on page 191, “The magic of the story. The wonder of words. The fertility of imagination.” Those lines capture exactly how I felt while reading THEO OF GOLDEN. If only there were more Theos in the world.
Rose
The Last Time We Drowned by Saratoga Schaefer
Charlie is down on her luck after her best friend, Sage, dies. Sage was a published author of a reimagined classic featuring mermaids as characters. The book was a bestseller. The only problem? It was Charlie's idea. Charlie and Sage had discussed the idea and how the book would be, but all the time, Sage was writing down the ideas, planning to write the book herself.
Now, Charlie is offered a job on a luxury yacht, The Empress, along with other influencers to write social media posts. She replaces a woman who left the ship. But, as Charlie settles into her room, she starts noticing things that are out of place. She begins noticing other things that seem off.
Everything concludes with some interesting reveals. Not a fan of influencers.
Rose
Tell Them You Lied by Laura Leffler
Willow and Anna become friends in school because they both want to become artists. Willow is a photographer and Anna is a painter. The book begins on 9/11, and Anna is concerned because Willow is unaccounted for after the attacks. Then the book looks back at their toxic relationship.
Anna desperately wanted Willow's approval and validation, but Willow wanted something else.
Willow was so unlikeable, I couldn't believe Anna could be sucked in time and time again.
Not a favorite.
Rose
Holes by Louis Sachar
I have wanted to read this book for many years. A young man, Stanley Yelnats, is sent to a juvenile detention camp after being falsely accused of stealing shoes. The camp is supposed to build character, but while there, he and the other juveniles dig holes every day in the bed of a dried-up lake. If they find anything interesting, they must turn it in. Digging holes is supposed to help them build character, however, there is something else going on. An intermittent story is told alongside the digging narrative, providing insight into the curse of the dried-up lake. This novel shines a light on juvenile detention centers, highlighting the cruel treatment of the minors while the adults are poor role models.
Rose
Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck
I read this novella in high school and wanted to revisit it. It is the story of Lennie and George during the Great Depression. George looks after Lennie, a gentle giant who doesn't know his own strength. As George and Lennie discuss their dream of owning land, they get a job working on a ranch in California. However, after a tragedy, George must face the truth about his future with Lennie. So sad.
Rose
Their Double Lives by Jaime Lynn Hendricks
Kim is a waitress at a posh country club. Her dog needs an expensive surgery she can't afford, so when someone only known as "The Stranger" offers her a big payday to put a poison pill in a drink, she agrees. However, she discovers the intended victim is her ex-high school boyfriend, Tony, and she can't go through with it. But, shockingly, Tony's fiancée, PJ, dies at the dinner instead! An entire backstory is revealed as the story progresses, but it just seemed ridiculous and outlandish to me.
Rose
Flesh by David Szalay
Perhaps I am not the right audience for The Booker Prize-winning books, but I did not like this novel at all! István is the main character. His life is a series of mostly inappropriate sexual encounters. He is one-dimensional and for the life of me, I cannot understand how multiple women wanted to be with him. In my opinion, skip it.
Rose
Land by Maggie O'Farrell
This is a beautiful novel set in 1865 Ireland. Tomás and his 10-year-old son, Liam, are mapping the country of Ireland when they get separated and Tomás has a strange encounter. This changes everything for their family. The novel follows the family through many changes, including births and deaths. It follows the siblings as they live, sometimes making poor choices. There are some heartbreaking moments. I loved reading this!
Rose
The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton
Set in 1686 Amsterdam, Nella is wed to a merchant-trader, Johannes, an older gentleman. It was an arranged marriage, but Nella is determined to make it work. However, when she arrives, Johannes is not there. Instead, his sister, Marin, greets her. Johannes never advances toward Nella, which she can't understand. He offers her a wedding gift: a cabinet-sized replica of their house, which she needs to fill. She hires a miniaturist to create furniture and other goods for the replica house. However, the items the miniaturist sends are not the ones Nella requested. When Nella holds them, Nella gets a glimpse into the people of the house. She wants to talk to the miniaturist, but finding them proves elusive. Enjoyed it!
Rose
Wild Goose Chase by Sarah Adler
I needed a light book to read, and this hit the spot. Cal gets a call from his ex-girlfriend, Nicole, asking for help. She inherited a house from her aunt and there is a taxidermied goose in the attic. Cal promises to help her, but doesn't want to have the goose in his possession since it is illegal to harm a migratory bird. While trying to figure out how to dispose of the goose, he also needs help running his antique store since his partners went to Europe to elope. Annie is his partner's niece and she comes to help Cal manage the store. She has had a crush on Cal from a distance, but he doesn't treat her well initially. This changes when the goose goes missing and they must recover it. There is also a backstory for the goose!
Luella
The Fox of Kensal Green by Richard Tyrrell
A beautifully-written story about a man who was different and how his community surrounded him to protect and help him. Very heartfelt.
Sue Em
The Secrets We Hide by Karin Slaughter
Wow, this story has it all! Slaughter is a master storyteller and the North Falls series is her at her very best. At its heart, this book may be a police procedural with complex motivation, an unerring drive to make sense of the clues and the pursuit of justice. While that is a critical foundation, what makes this book phenomenal is the twisted relationships, familial ties and characters so real and flawed they break your heart. Pulsing throughout is the absolute heartbreak of domestic violence buttressed with not just facts and figures, but with understanding for the psychology of both those who abuse and those who stay. I cannot recommend this book highly enough. An intelligent thriller with heart, empathy and compassion.
Denise
The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife by Anna Johnston
While the main character of this book is a bit deceitful, the author does a wonderful job of showing the reader how his deception is both plausible and understandable. I enjoyed the variety of characters and found Frederick Fife’s borrowed life both heartwarming and bittersweet, especially because we, as readers, know the truth. What I loved most about the book were the relationships that developed along the way, and the ending leaves the reader with a tender sweetness of hope.
Christina
The Sea Child by Linda Wilgus
This was an enjoyable book about the 1800s in Cornwall England. I don’t often read many books about this time period and location, and I really enjoyed it. This historical fiction had mystery, romance, pirates and some mythical sea creatures. However, it is not a fantasy read.
Christina
Wreck by Catherine Newman
WRECK took a more serious tone than SANDWICH as Rocky was navigating trying to get a medical diagnosis for a condition that she developed as well as was dealing with some mental health issues of her daughter and herself. I enjoyed this book and am looking forward to the next in the series.
Christina
The Last One at the Wedding by Jason Rekulak
This was a great thriller that involved a father who hasn’t had the best relationship with his daughter, trying to rekindle their relationship after she lets him know she is getting married and wants him to come to the wedding at her finance’s family compound in New Hampshire.
Christina
Party of Liars by Kelsey Cox
I couldn’t put this one down - it was a quick read but had great storylines and I loved the ending!
Christina
Simplicity of the Sea by Jennifer Vido
This was a cute romance story that is the third book in the Gull Island series. This was my first book by this author, and I enjoyed the storyline and characters.
Christina
Skylark by Paula McClain
This historical fiction was awesome!
Christina
Evelyn in Transit by David Guterson
This was really an interesting read and very thought-provoking. This book was outside of my normal novels and I am glad that I read it.
Christina
The Stolen Life of Colette Marceau by Kristin Harmel
This was an unbelievable historical fiction. So good!
Christina
Ralph’s Party by Lisa Jewell
The book was good and had well-developed characters with multiple storylines, which came together during the last few chapters of the book. I really enjoyed the book and now have to add another book because it turns out, this was the first of a two-part series!!
Christina
Double Trouble by Joyce Carol Oates
This collection was published 20 years after she started her career which was written in a different style than her previous works. DOUBLE TROUBLE contains two shorter novels and two short stories all revolving around the theme of serial killers. I enjoyed it.
Christina
Wicked Altar by Jane Henry
This was my first dark mafia read and it starts off with an action-packed funeral. The intensity continues throughout the story. WICKED ALTER is the first in the McCarthy Family Legacy series and was very engaging with a great storyline.
Ivy
Where the Wildflowers Grow by Terah Shelton Harris
Colorful and painstakingly descriptive, this story of a small community of misfits sewn together by circumstance and flowers, literally, is a beautiful one of painstaking growth and miracles. WHERE THE WILDFLOWERS GROW will stay with the reader long after the last page.
Tessa
The Correspondent by Virginia Evans
I really enjoy epistolary novels. There is something so intimate about reading correspondence; it really shows the person who is writing. This novel focuses on Sybil Van Antwerp, who is nearing the end of her life. A former lawyer, she is slowly going blind and now spends her time now sending and receiving letters and emails to various people: family members, friends, famous authors, casual acquaintances, business dealings. By the end of the book, I feel that I know enough about Sybil to know that I would love to know more.
Denise
Good Joy, Bad Joy by Mikki Brammer
This is such a beautiful look at a lifelong friendship between Joy and Hazel. I loved how different they were from one another, yet they genuinely loved and accepted each other. Joy’s character development was wonderful to read. She begins as an obedient person who lets nearly everyone take advantage of her, and watching her find the strength to consider her own wants and needs was so satisfying. Yet she still felt true to herself by the end, thoughtful, kind, and accepting at her core. I also loved the unlikely friendships and the moral tension when Joy crosses a line for Hazel. You’re cheering her on while also questioning the choices she makes. I loved that complexity.
Jessie
Tender is the Flesh by Augustina Bazterrica
TENDER IS THE FLESH is horrific and haunting. I loved it. I was reading this in the middle of reading THE JUNGLE, and as someone who doesn't think much about where my food comes from, the accuracy between the slaughterhouse in TENDER IS THE FLESH and the processing plants in THE JUNGLE made my stomach hurt. The ghoulishness of humanity was stark in this novel. The book has sunk into my bones, and I'll probably spend a lot of time thinking about it this month.
Jessie
The Girl Who Broke the Dark by Evelyn Puerto
I had a hard time with the naïveté of the main character in the first half of the book, but things started to look up from the middle-to-the-end. I'm undecided if I want to continue with the series. I enjoyed the unusual magic system of the setting.
Luella
Brady vs. Belichick by Gary Myers
This book was well researched. It has always been my belief that it takes everyone on the team, on and off the field, to be a success. An interesting read.
Sandy
Kin by Tayari Jones
Vernice and Annie are two motherless daughters raised in Honeysuckle, Louisiana and have been best friends and neighbors since early childhood, but they are fated to live very different lives. This is a novel about mothers and daughters, friendship and sisterhood, and being a woman in the American South. Very good.
Paula
San Quentin Exodus by Bill Smoot
This is a good read. A young Black man, age 18, commits a murder. He is given a sentence 30 years to life. His first 30 years are in two different prisons. His life in these two prisons are interesting and he is a good prisoner not getting into any trouble. He makes some good friends. When he is up for parole he is denied. He is given another ten years. A woman who volunteers at the prison as a tutor knows his background. She knows the circumstances as to why he killed the man. She is upset with the decision. She devises a plan to help him escape. It is an amazing plan with lots of details.
