Bitter is the New Black

Author: Jen Lancaster
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: Illinois

 A memoir written by a self proclaimed "condescending, smart-ass, surly ex-sorority girl", who made an extremely large income as a VP at a big company and then was laid off and consequently lost her swanky apartment, had to sell all her designer handbags, borrow money from her parents, and move to what she calls "the 'hood". This book is her first and it is laugh out loud funny. Jen holds nothing back and she tells the 100% true story of her life and is not afraid to admit she was as bad as she comes across in the book. (As she so eloquently points out on the back cover of her book and in the prologue--she is the "tragic hero of the book, and the bitch had it coming".) 
  Her first 3 books have gotten such rave reviews so I read those 3, and I have to say I loved all 3 and found myself finishing each one in a matter of a day and a half and laughing hysterically at some of the things she comes out with. Bitter is the New Black is her first, then Bright Lights, Big Ass, followed by Such a Pretty Fat--all of which I highly recommend. She even has her own website which she updates daily. Great reads and she's hilarious!

Evening Star

Author: Carolyn Brown
Stars: 3
Review by: mystery lover
Destination: 1917 Oklahoma

Historical romance.

When the Killing's Done

Author: T.C. Boyle
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Channel Islands off the coast of CA

 T.C.Boyle's unique style of prose takes on the fight between environmentalists and animal rights fanatics.

The American Heiress

Author: Daisy Goodwin
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
Destination: England

Cora Cash, a wealthy American heiress, travels abroad with her mother in the 1890s to find and marry a titled Englishman.   This is an excellent historical fiction novel mixed with a little romance.   Scandal, intrigue, secrets, history, bold characters...this book is a delight!   I couldn't put it down--you will love Cora...even as a Duchess!

Shanghai Girls

Author: Lisa See
Stars: 4
Review by: Barbie
Destination: China & California

Good.

Bone Appetit: A Sarah Booth Delaney Mystery

Author: Carolyn Haines
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Mississippi


This is the follow up of Greedy Bones. Sarah and her PI partner, Tinkie, are recouping from their life changing adventures.  They decide to take a mini-vacation and wind up having to solve a mystery.  While they still face the aftermath of the previous book these ladies face danger with hope and belief.   A nice semi-light read after the darker previous book.

Greedy Bones: A Sarah Booth Delaney Mystery

Author: Carolyn Haines
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Mississippi

The darkest Sarah Booth mystery yet.  Laced with a feel of Hot Zone,  this mystery leads to a very sad time for Sarah just when things appear to be going so well.  It also makes you ponder what is really important in life and what we are willing to do to get it.  A lot of loss in this mystery but there is a glimmer of light at the end of this book.

Wishbones: A Sarah Booth Delaney Mystery

Author: Carolyn Haines
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Hollywood & Costa Rica

 Sarah Booth's dreams of becoming an actor have come to fruition.  As with most things, be careful for what you wish for.  She and her PI partner, Tinkie, go on a wild mystery chase.  They learn that sometimes the easiest path is not the correct path.  There is also love in the air and a kicker at the end that leads into the next book in the series.

A Catered Thanksgiving: A Mystery with Recipes

Author: Isis Crawford
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: NY

The most recent Simmons Sister mystery was a little tough to get through.  It felt like someone took the game Clue and tried to make it a book.  It was ok, but got sluggish in parts.  The series does have a way with people and obsessions that make it slightly different.

A Catered Birthday Party: A Mystery with Recipes

Author: Isis Crawford
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: NY

 Another mystery for the Simmons sisters to solve.  The real catch of this story is the extreme animal lovers and all the industries and obsessions surrounding them.  

Harry Potter & the Chamber of Secrets

Author: J.K. Rowling
Stars: 5
Review by: P Kerr
Destination: England & magical places

Sooooo glad I finally started reading these books.  They are a delight :)

Ella Minnow Pea

Author: Mark Dunn
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Destination: Island off the southeast coast of US

 About an island town that bases its principles on the guy who wrote the phrase, "The quick brown fox...". They have the alphabet hanging in town and when a tile falls, they think it is a message and they can no longer use that letter.  But then, more tiles fall.  The story is told in letters back and forth.  Creative and fun.

The Sultan's Seal

Author: Jenny White
Stars: 5
Review by: smudge
Destination: Istanbul, Ottoman Empire (Turkey)

This story of murder and intrigue takes place when the Ottoman Empire and the power of the sultans are disappearing as foreign powers and new ideas are taking over.  Not only is the story good, it is well told.

Say When

Author: Elizabeth Berg
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Destination: Ohio

Another good story by Elizabeth Berg.  This time the story is told from the man's point of view.

I Shudder: And Other Reactions to Life, Death, & New Jersey

Author: Paul Rudnick
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Destination: NY & NJ

Hysterical book written by the guy who did the screenplay for the movies In and Out, Adams Family Values and lots more.  Parts are non-fiction about his life in NJ and in NYC, but it is interspersed with fictional accounts about this character whom I can't even describe - maybe Felix Unger to the nth degree.  Very funny book!

Robopocalypse

Author: Daniel H. Wilson
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Destination: the whole world

Great book about the war between humans and robots.  Supposedly going to be made into a movie by Spielberg.

Precious Blood

Author: Jonathan Hayes
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NYC

 A first novel introducing Edward Jenner, a medical examiner, ready to jeopardize everything in order to capture an elusive serial killer.

Little Bee

Author: Chris Cleave
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Barbie
Destination: Nigeria & England

 I really enjoyed the writing in this book, the character development and the twists that make it stand out. Not to give away secrets or magic, I do warn that the well written descriptive passages of brutality did make me gasp. However, the love between the female characters will always prevail. Not a book I would have picked up on my own, but a book that I am glad to have read.

Thunder Dog

Author: Michael Hingson with Susy Flory
Stars: 4.5
Review by: JamBob
Destination: World Trade Towers on 9/11  (NY)

Finally read my "could not put down" book of the season. When I listened to the reports of survivors from 9/11 one story caught my ear immediately and that one involved a blind man leaving the 78th floor of Tower One with his guide dog. What an incredible story of determination that begins from birth for this man and his dog. His story is interposed between the events of 9/11 about his life and how he got a job in the Tower in the first place. Truly extraordinary! Of course we learn to marvel at the guide dog herself named Roselle. What amazing animals these dogs are along with inspirational people who train them.

After reading this book your eyes will be open to the world of handicapped people and their struggle to become productive members of society despite the aura of prejudice that surrounds them, unneccessarily created by people without disabilities. It is a short book and I highly recommend it to everyone for an inside view of the Towers that day, the life and death perspective of the survivors, the monumental will to live despite not knowing any of the circumstances at the time and in the face of overwhelming tragedy.  Everyone in that stairwell was "blind" that day and Michael's physical disability actually becomes his asset. But you will fall in love with Roselle whose training and determination did not fail her when she was asked to reach over and beyond her animal instincts to conquer fear in a situation no trainer or handler could have anticipated. 

So why the 4.5 stars? It is not prose but a quickly written type of narrative, it concentrated more on the life of the man than the events of 9/11 and I felt there is one misplaced political line referring to Pres. Bush and his whereabouts that day. HOWEVER, based upon the life achievements of this man and the dog(s) that guided him through life....this book is a 10!

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks

Author: Rebecca Skloot
Stars: 4
Review by: queenbee
Destination: VA

Wow...very intense...excellent...alarming. Elements of racism, science, religion, ethics, family, history. Biography meets science with lots of things to think about.  Glad I was born here, and now.

Now You See Her

Author: James Patterson
Stars: 3
Review by: queenbee
Destination: Key West

Any book that takes me to Key West is a good book, and this one was pretty good. Patterson and his co-writter M.L. put together a decent thriller with a strong main character that kept me reading well past my bedtime to get to the end. I have been disappointed at some of Pattersons books, but this is a nice, easy, entertaining one.

Vampire Academy

Author: Richelle Mead
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol M.
Destination: 

 OK.  There's a school for wizards, a school for spies, and now a school for vampires. What next?

Congratulations to...

... Debster, our Week #12 Prize Winner!!!

Cleopatra

Author: Stacy Schiff
Stars: 4
Review by: Reader
Destination: 

Informative while keeping my interest from beginning to end.  Well written.

Waiting for the Moon

Author: Kristin Hannah
Stars: 4
Review by: deckreader
Destination: Maine

 Romantic, quick read, good ending.

State of Wonder

Author: Ann Patchett
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
Destination: Brazil's Amazon jungle

 I listened to this on audio in the car.  The first third was very slow, but once Marina got to the jungle the story became so involving that I was reluctant to stop the car! Action, danger, mystery, intrigue...I would have given it a 5 if not for the slow start!

Dancing for Degas

Author: Katheryn Wagner
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Destination: France

Alexendrie, a fictional character, becomes a ballerina because of her love of dance and the need to provide for herself and family.  She becomes the favorite model of Degas with whom she falls in love.  However, she must choose between love and a financially secure future.  The story accurately portrays the period of Degas, a difficult person, when he was painting ballet dancers.  The story about a ballerina's life is very interesting however, a very few sources about a dancer's life are cited in the bibliography so it is difficult to know what it true and what is not.  The story was interesting although the ending was disappointing.

Burnt Mountain

Author: Anne Rivers Siddons
Stars: 3
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: Georgia

 A quick read. A good beach book.

A Deadly Row

Author: Casey Mayes
Stars: 3
Review by: JamBob
Destination: NC

An interesting cozy whose heroine is a puzzle maker for newspapers. The narrative flows and the mystery is interesting...I guessed the culprit, but enjoyed reading it to the end.

Cold Vengeance

Author: Preston and Child
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Scotland, NYC, and Louisiana

 An intricate plot involving quirky characters with a promise of a sequel.

Only the Good Spy Young

Author: Ally Carter
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol M.
Destination: 

A delightful teen-age series.

The Bronx Zoo

Author: Sparky Lyle & Peter Golenbock
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: Bronx, NY

A hysterical look into what is now infamously known as "The Bronx Zoo" era of the Yankees. Sparky Lyle lays it all out there for readers and depicts just what is was like playing for the Yankees in 1978--it truly was a zoo. With the infamous volitale relationship between Steinbrenner and manager Billy Martin, the fights between Billy and Reggie Jackson, and all the clubhouse shennigans, it's a wonder the Yankees went on to win as many championships as they did during this era. At one point in the 78 season they were 14 games behind Boston, and they came back, not only to be #1 in the division, but to win the World Series! If you're a Yankee fan this book is for you. It gives you an inside look into the beginning years of Steinbrenner's ownership (and how out of control he was) and the comments made by some of the best and most loved Yankees will have you laughing out loud. Third baseman Graig Nettles summed up the book perfectly when he said, "some kids want to grow up and run off with the circus, and some kids want to play baseball, and I get to do both."

The Professor and the Madman

Author: Simon Winchester
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
Destination: London


 The story of the creation of the Oxford English Dictionary, begun in 1857,(taking 70 years to complete)and the two men who played primary roles in it's development. Very interesting story though I found the writing to be somewhat convoluted.

61 Hours

Author: Lee Child
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: South Dakota

A thriller that leads to an uncertain conclusion.

The Bride Wore Scarlet

Author: Liz Carlyle
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Italy, England, & Brussels

The latest book in the MacLachlan family & friends series. It is the story of Anaïs de Rohan & Geoff Archard, Lord Bessett.  Secret societies, special psychic gifts, evil, lust, romance and humor make this a very nice summer read.

Ham Bones: A Southern Belle Mystery

Author: Carolyn Haines
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Mississippi

 The continuing story of Sarah Booth Delaney, defunct Daddy's Girl, turned PI.  This time she is the center of her investigation.  The story wants her to give up the past while having the past shoved in her face.   The end sets us on a new path and venue.

Merciless

Author: Diana Palmer
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Texas

This is the story of Jon Blackhawk and Joceline Perry.  In typical Palmer style a strong male sets out to protect a younger female.  There is a slight twist in the story that becomes apparent very quickly.  Still not a bad summer read.

Retribution: A Dark-Hunter Novel

Author: Sherrilyn Kenyon
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Las Vegas, NV

 The story of the Dark-Hunter Sundown.   This book changes pantheons and focuses on Native American lore.  It is a nice change of pace.  The love story is a little fast paced but the continued question of destiny - your choice or the choice of others makes it a good read.

Congratulations to...

... acorn, our Week #11 Prize Winner!!!

Already Home

Author: Susan Mallery
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
Destination: Texas

Some believable, but some completely unbelievable characters.  A quick, fun read, but nothing super special.

The Prostitutes' Ball

Author: Stephen J. Cannell
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Hollywood

 Shane Scully has a new (GQ) partner in what looks like an open and shut case - but is not.

All He Ever Wanted

Author: Anita Shreve
Stars: 3
Review by: smudge
Destination: New Hampshire

 I found this to be an upsetting book.  On the surface, it's about love, passion, obsession and jealousy.  However, the story is what evil people may do to others in the name of love.

Swim Back to Me

Author: Ann Packer
Stars: 2
Review by: acorn
Destination: US

Short stories.  Just OK.

Into the Wild Nerd Yonder

Author: Julie Halpern
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
Destination: Texas

This Young Adult novel describes the main character's transition in moving beyond the labels given to high school students.  It's an enjoyable read.

A Hard Death

Author: Jonathan Hayes
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Florida Everglades

 Yet another "forensic pathologist" enters the list of best-selling thrillers.

The Big Picture

Author: Douglas Kennedy
Stars: 5
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: Connecticut & Montana

Excellent.  Very suspenseful.

Groundswell

Author: Katie Lee
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
Destination: Mexico

A mindless, fun beach read...written by the very young ex-wife of Billy Joel!

The Friday Night Knitting Club

Author: Kate Jacobs
Stars: 3
Review by: Spring J
Destination: NY

I did the book on CD.  It made me want to learn to knit.  I have already started a scarf.  The book is a little cheesy. But it celebrates women getting together, which was the point back in the day for knitting and quilting.

Burnt Mountain

Author: Anne River Siddons
Stars: 3
Review by: Barbie
Destination: Georgia

As always, an enjoyable Siddons read, however I must have missed something along the way, and I didn't really understand the ending. Or perhaps I just didn't like the ending. Enjoyed reading about the South.

Sweet Jiminy

Author: Kristen Gore
Stars: 5
Review by: mystery lover
Destination: Mississippi

Very good book about life and people in the southern USA--past and present.

To Be Sung Underwater

Author: Tom McNeal
Stars: 5
Review by: bookmom3
Destination: Nebraska

 I loved this book.  Maybe the best book I've read this summer.  I can easily see this book made into a movie.

The Dante Club

Author: Matthew Pearl
Stars: 4
Review by: BookWorm2
Destination: Boston, MA

Despite a slow, textbook-like start, this mystery is an interesting and compelling read...especially knowing that it was written in a similar vain to the Shaara books in that the core information (and personality traits) of the 4 main characters is non-fiction though the story itself is fiction.

In the Land of Second Chances

Author: George Shaffer
Stars: 5
Review by: smudge
Destination: Nebraska

Vernon L. Moore, a mysterious saleman, arrives in the town of Ebb.  Befriending the inhabitants, he listens to their stories and asks them intriguing questions that help them see their lives differently.  An excellent story complete with humor, logic, mystery, and strong women.

Split Second (An FBI Thriller)

Author: Catherine Coulter
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Washington, DC

Savich and Sherlock are back but the story is really about Agts Lucy Carlyle and Cooper McKnight.  Set a very special serial killer on the loose, add a little paranormal activity, chases, and romance and you have a great read.

Bones to Pick: A Southern Belle Mystery

Author: Carolyn Haines
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Mississippi


 5th book in the aka A Mystery of the Mississippi Delta series.  The story line is getting more complex as the characters come into themselves.  More self realization and personal conflicts along with the murder mystery.  The ghost aspect really makes the series fun and sometimes thought provoking.  Not high thoughts, but thoughts nonetheless.

The Wedding

Author: Nicholas Sparks
Stars: 3
Review by: Holly B.
Destination: NC

 The Wedding is the sequel to The Notebook.  It's essentially about a couple who have been married for thirty years.  When the husband misses their wedding anniversary, he begins to clearly see his wife's discontent. 

Room

Author: Emma Donoghue
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Destination: US

 About a boy who has been raised by a woman who was abducted.  His whole world is the room that they are being kept in.

State of Wonder

Author: Ann Patchett
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: Minnesota & Amazon Jungle

 Marina Singh, a research scientist with a pharmaceutical company, is sent to Brazil to find out what happened to her predecessor and the status of research on a fertility drug being investigated by her former mentor for the company.  Mystery and an abundance of tropical flora and fauna accompanies her as she travels via an Amazon tributary to her own "heart of darkness."  There are beautifully drawn characters and stunning descriptions of the jungle as Marina makes her way in an adventurous and life-changing voyage.  I liked it even more than her award-winning Bel Canto.

The Little Balloonist

Author: Linda Donn
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Destination: France

 The story of one of the first female balloonists, Sophie Blanchard.

In Siberia

Author: Colin Thubron
Stars: 5
Review by: Little Red Hen
Destination: Siberia

This is another in my hot summer/cold reading choices. I read it with a huge National Geographic map, although the front and end papers have a drawing of the territory the author covered. Traveling by train, foot,  & truck his descriptions of this large mass of land, the people he finds, the places he descends into are rich, poetry really. If you were not sighted and heard this book, the experience would guide you through a place of mystery and misery. Colin Thubron was searching for what remained after the Stalin years, was there faith, tradition? This is one adventure I am happy to have in my armchair.

Dead Men Don't Ski

Author: Patricia Moyes
Stars: 3
Review by: Little Red Hen
Destination: Italy

This hot summer, I am reading about cold locations. In this Henry Tibbett mystery, the British police inspector and his wife, Emmy, are on a ski vacation mixed with smuggling, murders, and romance. It is a fast,undemanding read.

Loving Frank

Author: Nancy Horan
Stars: 2
Review by: Miss Lucy
Destination: WI

 This account of Frank Lloyd Wright's life with his mistress, Mamah Borthwick Cheney, could have been shorter.  It felt like it was dragging along in spots.  But it gave me an appreciation of the architect and his work.

Joy for Beginners

Author: Erica Bauermeister
Stars: 3
Review by: acorn
Destination: USA

 Good read.  Interesting women.

Summer in the South

Author: Cathy Holton
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
Destination: Tennessee

I enjoyed reading this book, but was disappointed in end when the author didn't resolve all of the mysteries. 

The Last Lecture

Author: Randy Pausch
Stars: 4
Review by: Spring J
Destination: PA & VA

 I have seen Randy Pausch's last lecture on the internet as well as his time management lecture.  I find him inspiring and real.

Untold Story

Author: Monica Ali
Stars: 3
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: Brazil & Illinois

Untold Story is a fantasy in which Diana, Princess of Wales, fakes her death with the help of her loyal Secretary and takes on a new persona in the American Midwest. She moves to a small town in Illinois, works part time with an animal rescue organization, and has a circle of friends, who know her as Lydia.  Constantly on her mind is the possibility of being discovered. While I thought much of the book was plodding and the characters, for the most part, indistinguishable, the plot finally gained interest in the final third.  I was attracted to the book by its author, Monica Ali, who wrote the brilliant Brick Lane.  Sadly, I was disappointed.

Everything

Author: Kevin Canty
Stars: 2
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Montana


 Sparse. A pretty good picture of how screwed up love between people is.

Theodore Boone: The Abduction

Author: John Grisham
Stars: 2
Review by: provo
Destination: NC


 His first book of Theodore Boone was much better.

Iron House

Author: John Hart
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NC, NY, Spain


Hard to put down. A story of two brothers, living at Iron House, a home for orphans - separated and then reunited.

Congratulations to...

... P Kerr, our Week #10 Prize Winner!!!

New This Week

Here are some new titles coming out this week. Check them out from the library and see where they take you…

Northwest Angle by William Kent Krueger (Atria Books)

Discovering a murdered teen while stranded by a gale on the remote Lake of the Woods, detective Cork O'Connor and his daughter, Jenny, also discover a mysterious baby boy whose life is threatened by powerful adversaries.

The Leftovers by Tom Perrotta (St. Martin’s Press)

When a bizarre phenomenon causes the cataclysmic disappearances of numerous people all over the world, Kevin Garvey, the new mayor of a once-comfortable suburban community, struggles to help his neighbors heal while enduring the fanatical religious conversions of his wife and son.

The Stranger You Seek by Amanda Kyle Williams (Bantam Books)

In the sweltering heat of an Atlanta summer, a killer is pushing the city to its breaking point, preying on the unsuspecting, writing taunting letters to the media, promising more death. Desperate to stop the Wishbone Killer before another victim meets a shattering end, A.P.D. lieutenant Aaron Rauser turns to the one person he knows can penetrate a deranged mind: ex–FBI profiler Keye Street.

Kill Me if You Can by James Patterson and Marshall Karp (Little Brown)

A poor art student in New York City discovers a duffel bag full of diamonds in the chaos during an attack at Grand Central Station and is pursued by the Ghost, an assassin who had murdered the bag's owner.

Ghouls Just Want to Have Fun: A Tressa Jayne Mystery

Author: Kathleen Bacus
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Iowa

3rd book in this series, formally called  A Calamity Jayne Mystery.  I found it difficult to get through. It got boring. This is a book in the Stephanie Plum tradition without the fight over boyfriends.  The ending picked up and it turned out to be an ok read.

Heart of Evil: Krewe of Hunters

Author: Heather Graham
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: LA

Book 2 in this series.   This book kept you guessing.  Every time I thought I knew who did it - They died.  Using the paranormal to question paranormal makes this a good read.   Looking forward to the 3rd book - Sacred Evil to see how things turn out.

Spell Bound: The Otherworld Series

Author: Kelley Armstrong
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: CA & FL

 The continuing story of the development of Savannah Levine.  I got the sense that this was a middle book setting the stage for a big bang end book.  There was a lot of character development and new characters added and a hanging type ending.

Hallowed Bones: A Mystery of the Mississippi Delta

Author: Carolyn Haines
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Mississippi & New Orleans, LA

 5th book in this series.  The PI business is really taking off and the cast of characters are sent to NOLA.  More character development and personal info in addition to the mystery and light humor.

Night Veil: An Indigo Court Novel

Author: Yasmine Galehorn
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: New Forest, Washington

 2nd Book in this series.  There is a lot going on in this book and it is really a set up for the, hopefully, future big battle book. 

Kitty's Big Trouble

Author: Carrie Vaughn
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: CO, KS, CA

The latest book in the Kitty Norville series it had some of the normal humor expected of the series and the added mystery of "what if" history changes.  A lot of mind play in this book.

Splintered Bone: A Mystery of the Mississippi Delta

Author: Carolyn Haines
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Mississippi

 Book 3 in the series.  The main character and her partner are really coming together and developing their PI business.  The little paranormal conscience adds humor to the mystery. 

The Exile of Sara Stevenson

Author: Darci Hannah
Stars: 4
Review by: Holly B.
Destination: Scotland

 When Sara Stevenson from an affluent family becomes pregnant by her poor lover, she is exiled by her family to a remote lighthouse on the Scottish coast.  There she encounters the lighthouse keeper with his own dark secrets from the past. Although this story is an historical fiction, it has supernatural elements so it becomes somewhat of a ghost story towards the last third of the book.   

Child 44

Author: Tom Rob Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: queenbee
Destination: Soviet Union

A mystery thriller with some odd people, but different and contagious. Books with women and children being murdered are not the kind I usually read or recommend, but the setting and the ending are both pretty good and I was glad I kept with it after I read the first chapter or two.

Ghost of Greenwich Village

Author: Lorna Graham
Stars: 3
Review by: queenbee
Destination: NYC


Good first book, easy, cute and actually well written about a young girl from the midwest who goes to live in the same apartment building her deceased mom lived in as a girl. She befriends a writer who has been dead for 30 years who is looking for someone to finish his stories. Far fetched, but okay.

Faith

Author: Jennifer Haigh
Stars: 4
Review by: queenbee
Destination: Massachusetts

 A book of fiction, that reads as fact. The scandal that rocked the Roman Catholic community in 2002 is examined through the experience of a family with three adult children, the oldest of which is a priest accused of inappropriate behavior. Secrets are uncovered and sadness for all involved.

Drinkers of the Wind

Author: Carl Raswan
Stars: 5
Review by: ralphs
Destination: Arabian Desert

There is a part of the story, when the author is a child, when he desires to find the world beyond the hill. Reading this book, which was an amazing adventure story was like discovering the world, beyond the hills of home.

The Snowman

Author: Jo Nesbo
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Norway

Unique plot with crafty misdirection.

A Rough Road

Author: Patrick J. Bird
Stars: 3
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: NY


A four-year-old Boy contracts polio in 1940 and is sent to a Reconstruction Home, where he spends the next year and a half.  During that time (this is before Sister Kenny and her revolutionary "hot packs" treatment) young Paddy is immobilized for a while when his legs are encased in plaster casts.  Once they are removed, he undergoes therapy for his weakened legs. Loneliness and sorrow for his far-away family add to Paddy's difficulties, but many at the facility are kindhearted and ease his ills.  Life gets interesting for Paddy when a somewhat older street-wise boy with spina bifida becomes his roommate.  Their exploits are hilarious.  This fictionalized autobiography is fast-moving and accurate in its portrayal of the polio treatment at the time.  The facility where Paddy stayed is now the Helen Hayes Hospital, renowned during the polio epidemics in the mid-20th-century and today as an outstanding rehab hospital.  This book would be of interest to younger readers as well as adults.

East of Eden

Author: Steinbeck
Stars: 5
Review by: Carol M.
Destination: 


 WOW! Fabulous!

Murder, She Wrote: Skating on Thin Ice

Author: Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Stars: 3
Review by: JamBob
Destination: Cabot Cove, Maine

During he hot summer days I enjoy reading a book that provides a refreshing chill. Since this book takes place "Mainely" at an Ice arena in Cabot Cove during the winter..it provied me with some "mental" air conditioning. The mystery is simplistic with an array of characters that could have done the "cold" deed. Its a quick, cool read on a hot summer day. Got the book in large print so it was EZ on the eyes too.

Elizabeth I

Author: Margaret George
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Destination: England

The story opens with the first attack by the Spanish Armada and ends shortly after the death of Elizabeth I. 

Just Jennifer

The Burning by Jane Casey (Minotaur, September 2011)


Detective Constable Maeve Kerrigan is a very motivated member of the murder task force trying to catch a serial killer who has been stalking, and murdering, the young women in Kensington. Dubbed The Burning Man, the killer beats women to death and then sets their bodies on fire, taking a piece of their jewelry as a trophy. When Kelly Staples stabs a man she believes to be the Burning Man in an alley, a chain of events is set off that has long reaching effects on many lives. When a fourth body appears while the stabbing victim is still in surgery, it is clear that Kelly Staples, acting out of fear, stabbed the wrong man. When a fifth body shows up, everyone is convinced that the Burning Man has struck again, but as Maeve begins to look at the evidence in the newest murder against the others, she sees a shift in the pattern, a shift that makes her believe they may be dealing with a copycat. Jane Casey has already taken UK and European by storm; this fast-paced psychological thriller will win her many new fans on this side of the Atlantic.

Just Jennifer

Hamlet’s Blackberry: Building a Good life in the Digital Age by William Powers (Harper Perennial, July 2011)


Technology and the ability to stay connected 24/7 can be a wonderful thing; it can also be very debilitating as we find ourselves always on, always connected, unable to escape and finding ourselves more and more dependent on electronic devices. Rather than making us more productive and connected, is it possible these devices offer us more ways to waste time and make us more isolated than ever? William Powers cites examples from great thinkers such as Plato, Seneca, Shakespeare, Ben Franklin and Thoreau, making a case that connectedness can be a very productive, wonderful thing when it is tempered with disconnectedness and a retreat back into the pre-Internet ages. Powers includes Franklin’s thirteen desirable virtues, which Franklin used in combination with a copy of Hamlet’s erasable tables. Powers shows that living purposefully can be achieved by balancing modern technology with the ability to turn off, step back and reconnect with ourselves and those around us. A very approachable, readable disourse, we will all find something our ourselves in Hamlet’s Blackberry.

New This Week...

 Here are some new titles coming out this week. Check them out from the library and see where they take you…

Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness by Alexandra Fuller (Penguin Press)

Traces the stories of the author's parents' respective childhoods in Kenya and England, recounts her own upbringing in Africa, and offers insight into the impact of their beliefs and the waning of the British empire on her parents' marriage.

Flash and Bones by Kathy Reichs (Scribner)

Forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan investigates a possible FBI cover-up with ties to the disappearance of a NASCAR crew member's sister, a right-wing extremist group, and a secret substance.

The Eighty-Dollar Champion: Snowman, the Horse that Inspired a Nation by Elizabeth Letts (Ballantine)

Traces the mid-20th-century story of the champion equine jumper and the Dutch farmer who rescued him from the slaughterhouse, recounting how the farmer discovered Snowman's jumping talents and trained him to compete against the world's most expensive thoroughbreds.

The Measure of the Magic: the Legends of Shannara by Terry Brooks (Del Rey)

Panterra Qu, a newly anointed Knight of the Word who has been entrusted with the last black staff and its powers, must protect thousands of lives that are put in danger when centuries of protective magic disappears.

Just Jennifer

The Call by Yannick Murphy (Harper Perennial, August, 2011)


In rural New England, there is a veterinarian who has the same worries as a lot of people: that his business will not do well, that he will be unable to afford the taxes on his house and have to move, that he will not be able to keep his wife happy and his family safe. But, there is a certain comforting rhythm to his life that keeps everyone grounded, until he takes his twelve-year-old son Sam hunting and Sam is shot by a grouse hunter, falling out of a tree blind and slipping into a coma. The veterinarian tries to maintain a sense of normalcy for his wife and two daughters while they wait for Sam to awaken, but the spacecraft hovering in the sky is not reassuring him that everything will be okay. An unknown man, but not really a stranger, comes into their midst asking for a favor that will change the way the veterinarian thinks about his family and will make the veterinarian and his wife redefine many things in their lives, including their definition of family and forgiveness.

The narrative is framed by each call the veterinarian receives, or doesn’t receive. It is deceptively simply and at first glance doesn’t look as though the sections will convey enough to create a compelling story, but they slide together slowly, interlocking, creating a story told with honesty and an unexpected intensity.

Now You See Her

Author: James Patterson
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Florida & NY
 
Easy reading and formulaic.

The Hypnotist

Author: Lars Kepler
Stars: 3
Review by: deckreader
Destination: Sweden

If you can get past the violence the investigation process and hypnotism keeps you interested.

Congratulations to...

... babygirlshaina, our Week #9 Prize Winner!!!

Island

Author: Thomas Perry
Stars: 5
Review by: KM
Destination: Caribbean

I was just reviewing this for a write up and was delighted to realize I felt an immediate fondness for different parts of it--I could've read it all over again! Reads and feels like a dated book (1987), but the writing doesn't disappoint. A highly creative premise and story that keeps you glued and uttering "hunh," to yourself. Best described by Carl Hiaasen: "...a fearsomely funny oasis where Gilligan wouldn't survive the first luau, but where Ivan Boesky or Oliver North might feel right at home. A wild and terrific book."

Eyes Wide Open

Author: Andrew Gross
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NY & CA


A novel written as a memorial to his son.

Fourth Sunday

Author: B.W. Read
Stars: 4
Review by: acorn
Destination: Washington, DC

Author is really 6 real women who are a book club.  Each wrote one part of the book. Very interesting format.

Sh*t My Dad Says

Author: Justin Halpern
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary H
Destination: CA & Washington state

Very Funny.

Delicious

Author: Susan Mallery
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary H
Destination: Seattle, Washington

Good beach read.

Quinn

Author: Iris Johansen
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary H
Destination: Georgia


The book gives closure to the end of the mystery surrounding the death of Bonnie.

Eve

Author: Iris Johansen
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary H
Destination: 

This book provides the story of Eve's early life and the birth of her daughter Bonnie.  It was an interesting story.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas

Author: John Boyne
Stars: 5
Review by: ddlesmom
Destination: Germany

Set during World War II, a story seen through the innocent eyes of Bruno, the eight-year-old son of the commandant at a concentration camp, whose forbidden friendship with a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence has startling and unexpected consequences.

The Hunger Games

Author: Suzanne Collins
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
Destination: futuristic North America

 Excellent start to the trilogy. Can not wait until book #2 comes in for me.

New This Week...

Here are some new titles coming out this week. Check them out from the library and see where they take you…

It’s a short list this week but never fear, the Fall list is just around the corner!

The Omen Machine by Terry Goodkind (Tor)


A deep underground machine awakens after thousands of years and foretells ominous events including a catastrophic prediction involving Richard Cypher and Kahlan Amnell.

Ready Player One by Ernest Cline (Crown)

Immersing himself in a mid-twenty-first-century technological virtual utopia to escape an ugly real world of famine, poverty, and disease, Wade Watts joins an increasingly violent effort to solve a series of puzzles by the virtual world's creator.

In the Heart of the Canyon

Author: Elisabeth Hyde
Stars: 4
Review by: KM
Destination: Arizona

About whitewater rafting. Read this in audiobook format. It took me a while to accept the narrator, but eventually the story took hold of me and I no longer concerned myself with the quality of the performance. This book has an interesting, surprising ending. It will put you on the river to some extent, but the primary focus is on the characters. If you're into psychology and relationships with a little adventure on the side, this book may be for you.

Dominance

Author: Will Lavender
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Destination: Vermont

The best thriller I've read in a very long time with a MAJORLY unexpected twist in the last two paragraphs!

Chihuahua of the Baskervilles

Author: Esri Allbritten
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
Destination: Colorado

Fun little mystery about a vengeful (dead) chihuahua.

The Glass Castle

Author: Jeannette Walls
Stars: 5
Review by: NancyW
Destination: Arizona, WV, NYC

This book is a vivid description of Ms Walls early life. The details are fascinating, as are the descriptions of places that she lived. It makes me think about people and their motivations. For instance, how does someone coming from such a dysfunctional family become a successful author? My answer is that her parents always valued books and learning, even if they didn't provide the necessities of life.

Have a Little Faith

Author: Mitch Albom
Stars: 5
Review by: NewRetireeReader
Destination: NJ, Illinois


A great book, Albom profiles two people: a rabbi for whom he has been asked to write a eulogy, and an inner-city convict turned pastor. Two very different worlds, two different religions, but one strongly shared similarity: faith.

I Was a Dancer

Author: Jacques d'Amboise
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: NYC & around the world

This memoir by former principal dancer with the New York City Ballet, Jacques d'Amboise, is an inside look at the world of classical ballet in the 20th century. It is full of insider stories of the great choreographer George Balanchine, impresario Lincoln Kirstein, and the renowned dancers of the era.  It is a fascinating study of the development of a young neighborhood tough into the brilliant dancer on whom the fabled Balanchine created the most works. This is a big book with lots of photos, and I loved it.

The Hunger Games

Author: Suzanne Collins
Stars: 2
Review by: Littérateur
Destination: fictional future country of Panem

Maybe it's because this is at its essence a book for kids. Maybe it's because I couldn't look at this book as a novel concept, given that the Japanese cult classic, Battle Royale, is a favorite film of mine. To be quite honest, I still have a hard time believing author Collins came up with the idea for the book on her own, given that Takami Koushun's novel was published over a decade ago, and its film adaptation has garnered international acclaim. Overall, I was not a fan of this book.

The greatest weakness that I perceived in Collins's novel is her inability to properly complement the dark themes of the gladiator competition with the characters of her protagonists and their Capitol audience. I imagine the author might argue that it was her intention to portray ignorance and bloodthirstiness in her reality-TV audience, but most of the Capitol's characters felt unrealistically one-dimensional and downright silly. The Games' participants, as well, similarly lacked a sense of depth as characters (surprisingly, given the enormity of the difficulties they faced).

Finally, I believe that the story suffered from predictability. Just like the young protagonists of Harry Potter, heroine Katniss Everdeen runs into a multitude of lucky situations that take the Games far beyond their standard run. At the beginning of the Games, we understand that there are some very difficult actions that each participant will have to take if they want to survive, yet Collins enables Katniss to happily progress through the tournament while avoiding the most heart-wrenching and morally ambiguous possibilities.

House of Daughters

Author: Sarah-Kate Lynch
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Destination: France

A story of sibling rivalry, love, and understanding against a year at a Champagne house.

The Queen's Conjurer

Author: Benjamin Woolley
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S
Destination: England

A brief biography of John Dee, onetime advisor to Elizabeth I, who ended up dying in poverty with his reputation destroyed.

On Black Sisters Street

Author: Chika Unigwe
Stars: 4
Review by: acorn
Destination: Africa & Belgium

 4 African women  leave for different reasons and end up as prostitutes in Antwerp.  Could absolutely be non-fiction.  Current times.

Maine

Author: J. Courtney Sullivan
Stars: 2
Review by: Barbie
Destination: Maine

I would have liked more beach and less family angst.

Miss Peregrine's Home for Peculiar Children

Author: Ransom Riggs
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Destination: Wales

Great little fantasy book based on REAL photographs.  About a boy who discovers the truth behind his grandfather's childhood stories.  Building a story around the photos is fantastic!

Split Second

Author: Catherine Coulter
Stars: 4
Review by: the reader
Destination: 

Great FBI thriller read.  Lots of action.

Shut Your Eyes Tight

Author: John Verdon
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NY

 Like a puzzle, the plot unfolds in different hues and colors until the final piece is inserted to make sense of the Who-Done-It?

The Red Leather Diary

Author: Lily Koppel
Stars: 5
Review by: mysterygirl
Destination: NY, England, France, Italy

 I really enjoyed it!  Very interesting to go back in time to the early 30's to experience NYC & Europe along with Florence, she is quite a character!  Loved how Lily sewed up the ending.  This is a must read for all who enjoy history and living vicariously through a real life main character.

A Woman's Story

Author: Annie Ernaux
Stars: 4
Review by: smudge
Destination: France

This is a sparely written, very short, portrait of the writer's mother. The story begins with the mother's death and travels backward to paint a picture of the emotions that created their mother-daughter relationship.  It was, for me, a sad story because "her voice, together with her words, her hands and her way of moving and laughing, which linked the woman I am to the child I once was" made me mourn what will one day be true for me and my children.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

Author: J.K. Rowling
Stars: 5
Review by: P Kerr
Destination: To Magical Places

Now that the final book and movie are done, I've decided to (finally) begin reading the Harry Potter series. I now understand what all the fuss is about.  What a delightful ride ~ can't wait to start on Book #2.

People of the Book

Author: Geraldine Brooks
Stars: 5
Review by: SCL
Destination: Sarajevo & Italy

While a book about an old book may sound boring, this was anything but.  The modern forensic search for clues entwined with stories of old was fascinating.  I learned some history and was entertained as well.  I highly recommend that you give it a try.

Stay

Author: Allie Larkin
Stars: 4
Review by: BJS
Destination: Westchester, Rochester

 Good book for dog lover romantics.  On par with Must Love Dogs.

The Long Quiche Goodbye

Author: Avery Aames
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
Destination: Ohio

 Silly, hard to believe, pretty far fetched...a fun, quick read!  Set in a small Ohio town, it's a murder mystery that revolves around a cheese shop owner and her community.  First in a series that I will probably continue reading.

Tigerlily's Orchids

Author: Ruth Rendell
Stars: 1
Review by: acorn
Destination: 

Not worth the time.

An Uninvited Ghost

Author: E.J. Copperman
Stars: 3
Review by: JamBob
Destination: NJ "Down the shore"

I must give this author credit for creativity...there are so many cozy mysteries now that finding a new theme is difficult. This author plants the scene at a NJ Guesthouse near the shore with live-in ghosts of people who died in the house before being purchased by Alison with her daughter, Melissa. The ghosts help her solve murders but its not as easy as you may think...the newly deceased are bound by laws and limits that make for comical scenes and problems to be solved, hence my praise for this author's creativity. This is the second book in what I hope is a "long-lived" (pardon the pun) series.

Arsenic and Old Lace

Author: Joseph Kesselring
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: Brooklyn, NY

Such a wonderfully written and hysterical play. While I was in high school this was one of the plays we did, and I remember just laughing so hard and loving it. Recently I was able to watch the movie and decided to reread the play for old times sake--and I'm so glad I did. It made me laugh just like it always did. The general plot is about the Brewster family in the 1940s in Brooklyn, NY. Aunt Martha and Aunt Abby Brewster are sweet old ladies who take care of many neighbors and members of the community, but have one little quirk--they poison men and bury them in their basement. Add to that 3 nephews--1 named Teddy who thinks he's President Teddy Roosevelt (and yells "charge!" with his sword drawn every time he runs up the stairs because he is charging up San Juan Hill), another named Johnathon who is a horrible person and a maniacal murderer, and the last named Mortimer who is a play critic and stuck in the middle of all of this. Mortimer sums up the family best when he says "Insanity runs in my family. In fact, it practically gallops!" Great fun, laugh out loud funny, and a quick read--definitely worth it!

Gideon's Sword

Author: Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child
Stars: 2
Review by: Mich D
Destination: NY & China

A bit disappointing because I really like other titles by this author.  About a guy working alone who has to track down something hidden on a man coming from another country. The main character has lots of great spy skills, but the action was unbelievable and I didn't like the main character too much so it was hard to root for him.

Tales from the Yoga Studio

Author: Rain Mitchell
Stars: 4
Review by: BJS
Destination: California

I really enjoyed this one.  Good chick lit title that deals with the value of friendship especially when you are at a point where change is happening in your life.

Salting Roses: a novel

Author: Lorelle Marinello
Stars: 4
Review by: BJS
Destination: Alabama

Cinderella story with a twist.

Before I Go To Sleep

Author: S.J. Watson
Stars: 5
Review by: Miss Lucy
Destination: England

The main character, Christine, wakes every morning with no memory of the last 20 years of her life.  Think of the Drew Barrymore movie 50 First Dates projected 20 years into the future.  But this book is not as happy and fluffy as the movie.  There is a good deal of mystery involved as the reader reconstructs Christine's life at the same time and pace that she does herself.

For 3/4 of the book, I thought I had it all figured out, but boy, was I wrong!  This is an awesome debut by S.J. Watson, and I hope he writes more books of this quality in the future.

Familyhood

Author: Paul Reiser
Stars: 3
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: CA

The third book in Paul Reiser's "--hood" collection. Not as funny or entertaining as his first two books, but still a decent read. Like the first two, you can hear his voice on every page, and there were a few spots that made me chuckle, but compared to his first two, it just didn't match up. Again, he uses his own life experiences, but this time I found this to be more of a confessional of how much he loves his kids and how he loves being a parent, more than the true adventures of "familyhood". With the first two he takes you on the really funny ride of being in a couple and the new adventures of being a parent. And you can tell that while he is happy in both of those stages, he also lovingly pokes fun at himself and sort of asks, why do we do this to ourselves? But, in this book I found it more to be a, 'my life is so wonderful, everyone should have kids, my kids are so fantastic, brag book'. And while there were parts that made me chuckle, it just wasn't the same feeling. He went from, why do we do this to ourselves? in his first 2 books, to almost preaching why shouldn't we do this to ourselves? Every parent thinks their child(ren) are great (as they should), but to put a whole book out there to talk about it is kind of annoying. I was looking for the same kind of funny book about the adventures and trials and tribulations of raising a family, and all that it means to be in "familyhood", not so much how rosy and wonderful it feels to be a parent and how fantastic his 2 individual children are. It wasn't a horrible book by any means, and still a quick read, but it just wasn't as funny as his first 2, and I was expecting different from him. It left me wanting a little more from him.

Babyhood

Author: Paul Reiser
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: CA

The second book by Paul Reiser, and even better than his first. In his first book he takes you on the journey of what it means to go from single life to "couplehood" and now he takes you into the world of babies and kids. Again, drawing on his own real life experiences and life observations he takes the audience on a funny ride of "babyhood". Again, very witty and laugh out loud funny in spots. Just like in his first book, you'll find yourself saying, 'Oh that is so true' and 'Glad to know it's not just me'. If you were/are a Mad About You and/or Paul Reiser fan, than you will completely appreciate his books--you can hear his voice on every page. It's as if he is speaking the entire book to you. A great, funny, easy read.

Couplehood

Author: Paul Reiser
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: LA, California

Paul Reiser writes a funny and witty book on what it's like to date and marry, and be a "couple". He uses his real life experiences with his wife, and draws on actual life observations to show the difference between single life and "coupledom". A very quick read and laugh out loud funny in spots. This is the first of his 3 books.

The Last Letter from Your Lover

Author: Jojo Moyes
Stars: 5
Review by: deckreader
Destination: London

A love story mixed with a bit a suspense.  Hard to put down.

Rules of Betrayal

Author: Christopher Reich
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Afghanistan

A doctor is enlisted to be a neophyte spy and meets up with his ex -wife who is working for the enemy (or is she?)

Plum Lovin'

Author: Janet Evanovich
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Destination: Trenton, NJ

Stephanie Plum is the queen of sheer zaniness. In this Between the Numbers short novel, she is forced to team up with the gorgeous but spooky Diesel to capture her only bailbond skipper, Annie, who refuses to be found until all her clients are assured a happy Valentine's Day. Stephanie finagles dates for a shy butcher, a 40-year old virgin, and a mom with a house full of kids and animals. Diesel's special "Unmentionable" powers don't stop Annie from being kidnapped by a local mob boss; nor do they prevent one of Annie's unhappy clients, another "Unmentionable", from making everyone in his immediate vicinity break out in hives. Meanwhile, Annie's last client, Stephanie's sister's boyfriend, needs the forces of Lulu, Connie and Grandma Mazer to get up enough nerve to get married.

The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society

Author: Mary Ann Shaffer
Stars: 4
Review by: Spring J
Destination: England

Listened to this book on CD. I enjoyed it thoroughly.  The characters leapt off the "page".

The Man Who Loved Books Too Much

Author: Allison Hoover Bartlett
Stars: 3
Review by: Little Red Hen
Destination: California

This story would not have been possible with the Kindle. It is easy to understand  John Gilkey's obsession with owning rare books even if it meant stealing them; also understandable is Ken Saunders, a rare book dealer/detective who is determined to prevent Gilkey's damaging ways. If you love the pleasure of book books, you will be fascinated with the clever Gilkey and identify with the anger of antiquarian book dealers who see their volumes disappear.

Handle with Care

Author: Jodi Picoult
Stars: 3
Review by: queenbee
Destination: New Hampshire

 A sad story of a little girl born with osteogenesis imperfecta, a brittle bone disorder. Makes you look at your aches and pains in a new light. I even made the Blueberry Peach Buckle featured on page 410 to serve to friends yesterday.

American Pastoral

Author: Philip Roth
Stars: 5
Review by: BKF
Destination: NJ


Were you in high school or older in the early sixties? Antiwar? Demonstrator? This novel captures an unsettling time in our history,  experienced by one seemingly 'perfect' family. Beautifully written. A remarkable novel. HIGHLY recommended.

Juliet

Author: Anne Fortier
Stars: 5
Review by: LateNightReader
Destination: Virginia, Italy


I was drawn to this modern twist of the Romeo and Juliet tale. I enjoyed Anne Fortier's writing and the characters that she created. A very enjoyable read!

Fahrenheit 451

Author: Ray Bradbury
Stars: 5
Review by: Fernanda L.
Destination: US

Written in 1953, this book could very well have been written today.  I enjoyed the book so much that when I finished it, I started all over again and reread it.

Congratulations to...

... Barbie, our Week #8 Prize Winner!!!

Daughters-In-Law

Author: Joanna Trollope
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Holly B.
Destination: England


This story is about the difficulties of the in-law relationship as seen through the eyes of three brothers, their wives and their parents.  I've read other works by Joanna Trollope and this one is just as interesting as the others.  I rated it 3.5 because I was not fully satisfied with the ending.

Then Came You

Author: Jennifer Weiner
Stars: 5
Review by: acorn
Destination: NY, NJ


I loved this book.  About adoption, surrogacy, and true up-to-date experiences. 

The Help

Author: Kathryn Stockett
Stars: 5
Review by: Barbie
Destination: Jackson, Mississippi
Even better the second time around.

Now You See Her

Author: Joy Fielding
Stars: 1
Review by: Little Red Hen
Destination: Cork, Ireland


Reading this required a stretch of the imagination. Would these characters really meet up with others who so neatly and unbelievably carry the story forward? The best part is the end. I was glad when I reached it.

Speak

Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: Syracuse, NY


Really good book--written for YA, but still can and should be read by adults. About a girl entering her freshman year of high school and while dealing with all the trials and tribulations that go along with that experience alone, she is also dealing with a past sexual assault. The author does a brilliant job of showing her emotions, thoughts, and feelings in a very real way--truly like a victim. At the end of the book are statistics about such violent acts in our country and why we need to dicuss such important issues with our young girls/women. Very moving and very thought provoking. A friend of mine who is a 7th and 8th grade English teacher recommended it to me, and she wishes she could teach it to her kids. There's something to be said for the classics, but there's more to be said for important issues like this.

The End of Everything

Author: Megan Abbott
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
Destination: 

The plot idea was interesting, but the execution was too obvious.

Cutting for Stone

Author: Abraham Verghese
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Ethiopia

Against the backdrop of revolution and misery, this is the story of male twins growing up amidst tragedy.

Bella Tuscany

Author: Frances Mayes
Stars: 5
Review by: Little Red Hen
Destination: Italy

This is about more than buying and remodeling a villa in Cortona. It is a read rich with references to other writers, garden history, recipes. It is a primer on the Tuscan way of life, how villages are  human, how people talk with each other, about the importance of eating together, of careful selection of wine and olive oil. It is a fast and delightful read.

The Land of Painted Caves

Author: Jean Auel
Stars: 1
Review by: Carol M.
Destination: 
Although there were highlights, as a whole it was boring.  A long-awaited disappointment.

The Arrivals

Author: Meg Mitchell Moore
Stars: 3
Review by: acorn
Destination: Vermont
First book for this author.  Good family story.

Never Knowing

Author: Chevy Stevens
Stars: 4
Review by: the reader
Destination: Vancouver Islands

Best book I have read this summer.  Exciting.

Uppity

Author: Bill White
Stars: 3
Review by: BobBookWorm
Destination: The world of Major League Baseball

Written by a local resident (Chalfont PA), details early life and the racism pervasive in the South at the time.  Continuing through his major league career for 13 seasons, and his role as Phil Rizzuto's sidekick on the Yankee broadcasts.  Great insight into Bart Giamatti former Commissioner and father of the actor Paul.  Great inside stories about the Scooter.  Finally explores racism that still exists in the executive suites of Major League Baseball and the elimination of the role of the Commissioner of Baseball.  A good reminder to those who forget including me.

From the Grounds Up

Author: Sandra Balzo
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Milwaukee, WI

The 5th book in this series.  More solo action from our main character and less dependence on romance.   Although it does add subtle humor to the book.   Makes you really think about family and business.  Fun summer read.

Brewed, Crude, and Tattooed

Author: Sandra Balzo
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Milwaukee, WI

4th book in this series.   Much darker and our main character gets to be a sleuth on her own.   Gay sons, demolished businesses, blizzards, murder....Good summer read!

Stardust

Author: Neil Gaiman
Stars: 4
Review by: nanibev
Destination: Faerie


The occasional fairy tale is good for the soul and Neil Gaiman is an absolute master at creating "other" worlds.  

New This Week...

Here are some new titles coming out this week. Check them out from the library and see where they take you…

The Magician King by Lev Grossman (Viking)

In this sequel to The Magicians, Quentin and his friends are now the kings and queens of Fillory, but the days and nights of royal luxury are starting to pall. After a morning hunt takes a sinister turn, Quentin and his old friend Julia charter a magical sailing ship and set out on an errand to the wild outer reaches of their kingdom. Their pleasure cruise becomes an adventure when the two are unceremoniously dumped back into the last place Quentin ever wants to see: his parent's house in Chesterton, Massachusetts. And only the black, twisted magic that Julia learned on the streets can save them.

Star Wars: Fate of the Jedi: Ascension by Christie Golden (Lucas Books)

As Luke and Ben Skywalker pursue the formidable dark-side being Abeloth, the Lost Tribe of the Sith is about to be sundered by an even greater power—which will thrust one Dark Lord into mortal conflict with his own flesh-and-blood. On Coruscant, a political vacuum has left tensions at the boiling point, with factions racing to claim control of the Galactic Alliance. Suddenly surrounded by hidden agendas, treacherous conspiracies, and covert Sith agents, the Jedi Order must struggle to keep the GA government from collapsing into anarchy. The Jedi are committed to maintaining peace and ensuring just rule, but even they are not prepared to take on the combined threats of Sith power, a deposed dictator bent on galaxy wide vengeance, and an entity of pure cunning and profound evil hungry to become a god.

Girls in White Dresses by Jennifer Close (Knopf)

Attending an endless series of bridal showers for their friend Kristi, three bridesmaids struggle with private challenges, including Isabella's unhappiness at a job where she is nevertheless very successful, Mary's relationship with a man who prioritizes his mother and Lauren's attraction to a man she despises.

The Ideal Man by Julie Garwood (Dutton)

Dr. Ellie Sullivan has just completed her residency at a large urban hospital. While jogging in a park nearby, she witnesses the shooting of an FBI agent in pursuit of wanted criminals, a couple identified as the Landrys. The only person to see the shooter's face, Ellie is suddenly at the center of a criminal investigation. Agent Max Daniels takes over the Landry case. A no-nonsense lawman, he's definitely not the ideal man that Ellie has always imagined, yet she's attracted to him in a way she can't explain. Ellie heads home to Winston Falls, South Carolina, to attend her sister's wedding. Shortly after she arrives, though, she receives a surprise visitor: Max Daniels. The Landrys have been captured, and she'll be called to testify. But they've been captured before, and each time the witnesses are scared into silence-or disappear before they can take the stand. Max vows to be Ellie's shadow until the trial, and it isn't long before sparks fly.

Family Fang by Kevin Wilson (Ecco)

Performance artists Caleb and Camille Fang dedicated themselves to making great art. But when an artist’s work lies in subverting normality, it can be difficult to raise well-adjusted children. Just ask Buster and Annie Fang. For as long as they can remember, they starred (unwillingly) in their parents’ madcap pieces. But now that they are grown up, the chaos of their childhood has made it difficult to cope with life outside the fishbowl of their parents’ strange world. When the lives they’ve built come crashing down, brother and sister have nowhere to go but home, where they discover that Caleb and Camille are planning one last performance–their magnum opus–whether the kids agree to participate or not. Soon, ambition breeds conflict, bringing the Fangs to face the difficult decision about what’s ultimately more important: their family or their art.