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Tuesday, July 31, 2012
Saturday, July 28, 2012
In One Person
Author: John Irving
Stars: 2
Review by: Judy
Well written book but the subject matter about bisexuals and transvestites was too graphic for me.
Stars: 2
Review by: Judy
Well written book but the subject matter about bisexuals and transvestites was too graphic for me.
Let the Devil Sleep
Author: John Verdon
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
An example of the astute wisdom of the author: "It was surely one of the great ironies of human nature that when our passions most severely disorient us, we are most positive that we see things clearly."
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
An example of the astute wisdom of the author: "It was surely one of the great ironies of human nature that when our passions most severely disorient us, we are most positive that we see things clearly."
Friday, July 27, 2012
The Thackery T. Lambshead Cabinet of Curiosities: Exhibits, Oddities, Images, and Stories from Top Authors and Artists
Author: various
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Wonderfully quirky anthology of fantastic fiction and art from a host of international authors and artists.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Wonderfully quirky anthology of fantastic fiction and art from a host of international authors and artists.
Cinnamon Roll Murders
Author: Joanne Fluke
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
This one is a quick read. Still good, though.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
This one is a quick read. Still good, though.
Just Jennifer
What You Wish For by Kerry Reichs (William Morrow, July
2012)
For some women, having a baby is the next step after being
married for a while. For some, the
choice is to wait until their career is established; some choose not to become
mothers while still others must seek nontraditional ways to start a
family. Men have similar choices, though
often not the final say and what about single men who wish to start a family
but don’t foresee themselves marrying soon?
Kerry Reichs explores these different types of families and what women,
and men, give up in order to start a family or to not start a family. Dimple is a successful actress who is turning
forty and hears the tick of her biological clock; she has also just gotten the
role of a lifetime. Eva, a Hollywood
agent, can’t imagine ever wanting children, though she is supportive of her
cousin Wyatt’s decision to pursue adoption as a single dad. Wyatt has lost his first chance to become a
father in an adoption scam; when his second chance threatens his job as a school
principal he feels he may never have the joys of fatherhood. When Maryn underwent treatment for her breast
cancer, she and her husband Andy agreed to freeze some embryos. Now the two are divorced and Maryn wants to
implant some of the embryos, but Andy, who is running for city council, isn’t
sure what to do, though his headstrong wife Summer is vocally against Maryn’s
request. These lives intertwine and
collide, sometimes in surprising ways, as each person pursues his or her
individual dream. Maryn and Wyatt’s
stories are a little more compelling than Dimple’s, and would have stood well
in their own. Other characters in the
stories react in surprising ways to decisions made by those seeking a baby,
making this a truly character driven story.
Thursday, July 26, 2012
Calling Invisible Women
Author: Jeanne Ray
Stars: 4
Review by: KeeRead
A fun, quirky story about a woman who wakes up one day and finds herself invisible. Funny events in book make you laugh and wonder if being invisible is such a bad thing after all!
Stars: 4
Review by: KeeRead
A fun, quirky story about a woman who wakes up one day and finds herself invisible. Funny events in book make you laugh and wonder if being invisible is such a bad thing after all!
New York
Author: Edward Rutherford
Stars: 4
Review by: Dinah
This novel is based on the history of New York beginning with the Dutch settlers. It follows the history of one family up through to the present day and how they are able to survive, prosper, and cope with all the changes along the way.
Stars: 4
Review by: Dinah
This novel is based on the history of New York beginning with the Dutch settlers. It follows the history of one family up through to the present day and how they are able to survive, prosper, and cope with all the changes along the way.
The Reluctant Vampire: An Argeneau Novel
Author: Lynsay Sands
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book is one of many in the Argeneau series. It is the story of Drina and Harper. The background story deals with a newly turned teenager with special powers. I can see a future novel there in the making. Easy read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book is one of many in the Argeneau series. It is the story of Drina and Harper. The background story deals with a newly turned teenager with special powers. I can see a future novel there in the making. Easy read.
The Proof Is in the Pudding: A Della Cooks Mystery
Author: Melinda Wells
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This series is about a widow that is also a cooking teacher/TV cook. This is her 2nd profession, she was originally an English teacher that gave it up after being shot at by a student that earned an F in her class. This is the 3rd book in the series. We find our Chef being invited to be a replacement judge at a celebrity cooking challenge while trying to protect her honorary ward from being blackmailed by her ex-boyfriend. Needless to say a murder takes place and our Chef is out to find the killer and more. A fun summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This series is about a widow that is also a cooking teacher/TV cook. This is her 2nd profession, she was originally an English teacher that gave it up after being shot at by a student that earned an F in her class. This is the 3rd book in the series. We find our Chef being invited to be a replacement judge at a celebrity cooking challenge while trying to protect her honorary ward from being blackmailed by her ex-boyfriend. Needless to say a murder takes place and our Chef is out to find the killer and more. A fun summer read.
Fat Is the New 30
Author: Jill Conner Browne
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
The latest book from the leader of the Sweet Potato Queens.
Filled with hilarious and helpful tips on how to get the most happiness from life...also includes delicious and fattening recipes!
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
The latest book from the leader of the Sweet Potato Queens.
Filled with hilarious and helpful tips on how to get the most happiness from life...also includes delicious and fattening recipes!
The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Author: Deborah Moggach
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Having thoroughly enjoyed the movie, I read the book. This story is more about aging, loneliness, and the importance of family. It has some laughs, but is much darker.
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Having thoroughly enjoyed the movie, I read the book. This story is more about aging, loneliness, and the importance of family. It has some laughs, but is much darker.
Wednesday, July 25, 2012
I Suck at Girls
Author:
Justin Halpern
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
I didn't read his previous book (Sh*t My Dad Says), but I Suck at Girls was so touching and funny that I'm going to give his other one a try. Follow Justin's trials and tribulations with the opposite sex, from age 8 through 25. What a talented writer!
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
I didn't read his previous book (Sh*t My Dad Says), but I Suck at Girls was so touching and funny that I'm going to give his other one a try. Follow Justin's trials and tribulations with the opposite sex, from age 8 through 25. What a talented writer!
Catcher in the Rye
Author:
J.D. Salinger
Stars: 5
Review by: Elaine
A re-read from over the years and still terrific!
Stars: 5
Review by: Elaine
A re-read from over the years and still terrific!
The Confession
Author:
John Grisham
Stars: 5
Review by: deckreader
The story about an innocent young man on death row and the guilty man trying to save him.
Stars: 5
Review by: deckreader
The story about an innocent young man on death row and the guilty man trying to save him.
Bloodlines
Author:
Richelle Mead
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
Young adult series about vampires. An enjoyable fantasy. This one not up to par with previous ones in series.
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
Young adult series about vampires. An enjoyable fantasy. This one not up to par with previous ones in series.
Christmas, Present
Author:
Jacquelyn Mitchard
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Very sad book. Quick read. Deals with how someone facing death & saying good-bye.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Very sad book. Quick read. Deals with how someone facing death & saying good-bye.
Tuesday, July 24, 2012
Still Alice
Author:
Lisa Genova
Stars: 5
Review by: Little Red Hen
I read this on the recommendation of a dear friend whose wife has been my closest confidant, soul mate for 50 years. She has dementia; sometimes she remembers me, sometimes she doesn't. This book helped me cope with the cruel horror of this disease.
Stars: 5
Review by: Little Red Hen
I read this on the recommendation of a dear friend whose wife has been my closest confidant, soul mate for 50 years. She has dementia; sometimes she remembers me, sometimes she doesn't. This book helped me cope with the cruel horror of this disease.
The Lost Quilter
Author:
Jennifer Chiaverini
Stars: 5
Review by: Marian
An amazing story of a female slave during the Civil War. Extremely well done.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marian
An amazing story of a female slave during the Civil War. Extremely well done.
Summerland
Author:
Elin Hilderbrand
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Great story, as always with Elin Hilderbrand. I picked up Summerland thinking it was going to be light, fun, and fluffy. It's not. It is more of a serious book but good nonetheless.
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Great story, as always with Elin Hilderbrand. I picked up Summerland thinking it was going to be light, fun, and fluffy. It's not. It is more of a serious book but good nonetheless.
Squirrel Seeks Chipmunk
Author:
David Sedaris
Stars: 2.5
Review by: BookWorm2
An interesting read, but the situations were far less imaginative than I had hoped. A bit more like an Aesop's Fables for modern times, but nothing truly new.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: BookWorm2
An interesting read, but the situations were far less imaginative than I had hoped. A bit more like an Aesop's Fables for modern times, but nothing truly new.
Baby Love
Author:
Catherine Anderson
Stars: 3
Review by: syd
It started out much better than it ended.
Stars: 3
Review by: syd
It started out much better than it ended.
Some Assembly Required
Author:
Anne Lamott
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
I enjoyed Operating Instructions and expected to enjoy this one as well. Not so much...kept reading, in anticipation of a story or a thought or something that would have made it worth my time, but I never stumbled across that. Quite disappointing.
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
I enjoyed Operating Instructions and expected to enjoy this one as well. Not so much...kept reading, in anticipation of a story or a thought or something that would have made it worth my time, but I never stumbled across that. Quite disappointing.
Creole Belle
Author:
James Lee Burke
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
Another Dave Robicheaux novel, with a story about the conflict between good and evil, and some social commentary thrown in along the way.
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
Another Dave Robicheaux novel, with a story about the conflict between good and evil, and some social commentary thrown in along the way.
Prey
Author:
Linda Howard
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
Typical, predicable romance in quite a different setting.
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
Typical, predicable romance in quite a different setting.
Cake on a Hot Tin Roof
Author:
Jacklyn Brady
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
Second in a series. Fun, quick murder mystery
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
Second in a series. Fun, quick murder mystery
Lone Wolf
Author:
Jodi Picoult
Stars: 3
Review by: Ann M
Luke Warren's life was spent being and learning about wolves. He's in a car accident, in a coma, and his daughter, Cara, wants to keep him on life support, but his son, Edward, does not.
Stars: 3
Review by: Ann M
Luke Warren's life was spent being and learning about wolves. He's in a car accident, in a coma, and his daughter, Cara, wants to keep him on life support, but his son, Edward, does not.
Geology of the Eastern Coast: Investigate How the Earth Was Formed with 15 Projects
Author:
Cynthia & Kathleen Brown
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
What a wonderful book about how the east coast was formed with interesting, fun facts. In includes all aspects of geology from plate tectonics to climate. This would make a great text book for a middles school/High School Earth Science class or a supplementary book for a High School Geology class. There are some cute, easy experiments to add to the fun. (Some are hokey, though) This would also be a fun book for home schooling or kids that just like science.
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
What a wonderful book about how the east coast was formed with interesting, fun facts. In includes all aspects of geology from plate tectonics to climate. This would make a great text book for a middles school/High School Earth Science class or a supplementary book for a High School Geology class. There are some cute, easy experiments to add to the fun. (Some are hokey, though) This would also be a fun book for home schooling or kids that just like science.
The Body in the Belfry: A Faith Fairchild Mystery
Author:
Katherine Hall Page
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book has Faith questioning her lot in life. She is happily married with a child but she misses the excitement of her single life. While taking a walk with her baby and pondering life she stumbles across the body of a, not-so-loved, member her husband's congregation. This leads to finding out more about the local people than most want to know. There is a surprise about the person that comes to the rescue at the end. Read and enjoy!
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book has Faith questioning her lot in life. She is happily married with a child but she misses the excitement of her single life. While taking a walk with her baby and pondering life she stumbles across the body of a, not-so-loved, member her husband's congregation. This leads to finding out more about the local people than most want to know. There is a surprise about the person that comes to the rescue at the end. Read and enjoy!
Hex Marks the Spot: A Bewitching Mystery
Author:
Madelyn Alt
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This story has a lot of Amish folklore and symbolism in it as Maggie tries to solve the murder of a local Amish man. There is some interesting tidbits about the differences in PA Amish vs the Indiana Amish in this book. It is nice to see Maggie starting to accept her fate and use her powers. A fun, summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This story has a lot of Amish folklore and symbolism in it as Maggie tries to solve the murder of a local Amish man. There is some interesting tidbits about the differences in PA Amish vs the Indiana Amish in this book. It is nice to see Maggie starting to accept her fate and use her powers. A fun, summer read.
A Charmed Death: A Bewitching Mystery
Author:
Madelyn Alt
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
An early book in this series has our new to the paranormal main character, Maggie, trying to solve the mysterious death of a local teenager. In addition to coming to grips with her empath powers, solving a mystery Maggie is also trying to sort out her love life. Fun, summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
An early book in this series has our new to the paranormal main character, Maggie, trying to solve the mysterious death of a local teenager. In addition to coming to grips with her empath powers, solving a mystery Maggie is also trying to sort out her love life. Fun, summer read.
Promise Me This
Author:
Cathy Gohlke
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
Due to the 100th anniversary of the Titanic,,there are many releases of books that capture part of the tragedy interwoven into a fictional story. This author did some research and based her fictional characters on actual people on the ship then created a story around them, She is a Christian author who included christian principles within the narrative. Some of the events appeared far fetched to me and the book could have been written tighter but an interesting read nonetheless.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
Due to the 100th anniversary of the Titanic,,there are many releases of books that capture part of the tragedy interwoven into a fictional story. This author did some research and based her fictional characters on actual people on the ship then created a story around them, She is a Christian author who included christian principles within the narrative. Some of the events appeared far fetched to me and the book could have been written tighter but an interesting read nonetheless.
Killjoy
Author:
Julie Garwood
Stars: 5
Review by: Patti K
One of the HC librarians came into my job and I asked her for a book recommendation. She asked me what I'd been reading and she told me I might like Julie Garwood. I'd never read any of her books and, what can I say? I'm so glad I took her recommendation. Great book...great author. Looking forward to reading more of her books. And, yes, if you're wondering, I HAVE been living under a rock :)
Stars: 5
Review by: Patti K
One of the HC librarians came into my job and I asked her for a book recommendation. She asked me what I'd been reading and she told me I might like Julie Garwood. I'd never read any of her books and, what can I say? I'm so glad I took her recommendation. Great book...great author. Looking forward to reading more of her books. And, yes, if you're wondering, I HAVE been living under a rock :)
The Prince, the Showgirl, and Me: Six Months on the Set with Marilyn and Olivier
Author:
Colin Clark
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Every evening, after filming, Colin Clark recorded the day's events. This diary became the movie 'My Week with Marilyn'. However, this is not the love story that Hollywood invented, but a description of egos, personalities, how movies are made, and Marilyn Monroe.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Every evening, after filming, Colin Clark recorded the day's events. This diary became the movie 'My Week with Marilyn'. However, this is not the love story that Hollywood invented, but a description of egos, personalities, how movies are made, and Marilyn Monroe.
Saturday, July 21, 2012
The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks
Author:
Rebecca Skloot
Stars: 2
Review by: Mich D
The basic story is an interesting one - the cells of a poor woman were taken from her cancerous body and have been used to cultivate cells in culture, leading to advances in medicine and science. Her family, though, didn't know the whole story until the author tracked down more info. Seems like it should be a better book.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mich D
The basic story is an interesting one - the cells of a poor woman were taken from her cancerous body and have been used to cultivate cells in culture, leading to advances in medicine and science. Her family, though, didn't know the whole story until the author tracked down more info. Seems like it should be a better book.
Guernica: The Crucible of World War II
Author:
Gordon Thomas & Max Morgan Witts
Stars: 4
Review by: nanibev
The true, authenticated story of what happened at Guernico during the Spanish civil war. In spite of a non intervention treaty, German forces, as well as Italian, were very much a part of the conflict. The elite German Condor Legion wiped out an entire town, basically for "practice". The orders to ignore civilian populations and bonb indiscriminately are well documented. A disturbing but insightful read.
Stars: 4
Review by: nanibev
The true, authenticated story of what happened at Guernico during the Spanish civil war. In spite of a non intervention treaty, German forces, as well as Italian, were very much a part of the conflict. The elite German Condor Legion wiped out an entire town, basically for "practice". The orders to ignore civilian populations and bonb indiscriminately are well documented. A disturbing but insightful read.
New This Week
Black List by Brad Thor (Atria)
When his name is added to a
secret government list of individuals slated for assassination,
counterterrorism operative Scot Harvath engages in a high-stakes game of
survival while struggling to prevent a terrorist attack and learn who has
framed him for treason.
Broken Harbor by Tana French (Viking)
In the aftermath of a brutal
attack that left a woman in intensive care and her husband and young children
dead, brash cop Scorcher Kennedy and his rookie partner, Richie, struggle with
perplexing clues and Scorcher's haunting memories of a shattering incident from
his childhood.
Let the Devil Sleep by John Verdon (Crown)
Consulting with a young
documentary producer only to suffer a bizarre series of accidents shortly
afterward, decorated NYPD detective Dave Gurney discovers links to a serial
killer cold case that pits him against the nation's top law enforcement experts.
Where We Belong by Emily Giffin (St.
Martin ’s Press)
Her carefully constructed
life thrown into turmoil by the appearance of an eighteen-year-old girl with
ties to her past, New York
Mockingjay
Author:
Suzanne Collins
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
The third book in the trilogy. It does not disappoint, suprise ending and all.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
The third book in the trilogy. It does not disappoint, suprise ending and all.
The Stand
Author:
Stephen King
Stars: 2
Review by: Mary NK
A deadly airborne virus escapes from a secret Army research facility and rapidly disseminates killing 99% of humanity in a few weeks. As isolated survivors seek out others and try to reestablish some kind of civilization, opposing leaders emerge who will determine the future of mankind.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mary NK
A deadly airborne virus escapes from a secret Army research facility and rapidly disseminates killing 99% of humanity in a few weeks. As isolated survivors seek out others and try to reestablish some kind of civilization, opposing leaders emerge who will determine the future of mankind.
Gone Girl
Author:
Gillian Flynn
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary
This book is not what I expected. I expected a story like Scott Peterson but this story had a twist; however, I did not like the ending.
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary
This book is not what I expected. I expected a story like Scott Peterson but this story had a twist; however, I did not like the ending.
Feasting on Asphalt
Author:
Alton Brown
Stars: 2
Review by: Mary NK
I love Alton's mix of science + food; and his curiosity about how everything works. This travelog up the Mississippi has all that, plus recipes and stories of chefs & restaurants.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mary NK
I love Alton's mix of science + food; and his curiosity about how everything works. This travelog up the Mississippi has all that, plus recipes and stories of chefs & restaurants.
Fall of Giants
Author:
Ken Follett
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Although I'm not usually interested in the WWI era, this complex novel captivated me with the lives of disparate people drawn together by social issues, politics and war. Follett's genius is giving his characters lives we can care about. How he eventually brings together a Welsh coal miner, a British aristocrat, his Russian princess wife, her maid, Russian peasant factory workers, an idealistic German soldier and many others - I'll let you discover for yourself.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Although I'm not usually interested in the WWI era, this complex novel captivated me with the lives of disparate people drawn together by social issues, politics and war. Follett's genius is giving his characters lives we can care about. How he eventually brings together a Welsh coal miner, a British aristocrat, his Russian princess wife, her maid, Russian peasant factory workers, an idealistic German soldier and many others - I'll let you discover for yourself.
Pillars of the Almighty
Author:
Ken Follett
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary NK
Having enjoyed immensely Follett's Pillars of the Earth, I expected this non-fiction spin-off to expand on the architecture of medieval cathedrals. There are hundreds of gorgeous, detailed photos, but the text is excerpts from the fictional Pillars not necessarily related to the photos on the same page. The introduction, by a master stonemason contributing to NYC's Cathedral of St. John the Divine, is inspiring and proves that the ancient skills in "Pillars" are still alive and appreciated today.
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary NK
Having enjoyed immensely Follett's Pillars of the Earth, I expected this non-fiction spin-off to expand on the architecture of medieval cathedrals. There are hundreds of gorgeous, detailed photos, but the text is excerpts from the fictional Pillars not necessarily related to the photos on the same page. The introduction, by a master stonemason contributing to NYC's Cathedral of St. John the Divine, is inspiring and proves that the ancient skills in "Pillars" are still alive and appreciated today.
Star Island
Author:
Carl Hiaasen
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary NK
While mediocre pop singer Cherry recovers from yet another bout of "indigestion"; Ann, the stunt double hired by Cherry Pie's mother to fool the press, is kidnapped by a persistent (but mistaken) paparazzo, then rescued by Skink, former Florida governor-turned-ecologist-swamp-dweller. Throw in a 7' bodyguard with a weedwacker for a prosthesis, and identical (after numerous surgeries) twin publicists; and you're off on another wacky Hiaasen adventure.
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary NK
While mediocre pop singer Cherry recovers from yet another bout of "indigestion"; Ann, the stunt double hired by Cherry Pie's mother to fool the press, is kidnapped by a persistent (but mistaken) paparazzo, then rescued by Skink, former Florida governor-turned-ecologist-swamp-dweller. Throw in a 7' bodyguard with a weedwacker for a prosthesis, and identical (after numerous surgeries) twin publicists; and you're off on another wacky Hiaasen adventure.
D.C. Dead
Author:
Stuart Woods
Stars: 2
Review by: Mary NK
Another typical legal mystery starring dashing Stone Barrington. President Will Lee himself hires Stone & sidekick Dino to investigate the supposed murder-suicide of the former White House staffer.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mary NK
Another typical legal mystery starring dashing Stone Barrington. President Will Lee himself hires Stone & sidekick Dino to investigate the supposed murder-suicide of the former White House staffer.
Friday, July 20, 2012
A Discovery of Witches
Author:
Deborah Harkness
Stars: 3.5
Review by: bd
I'm kind of conflicted on this book. I really liked the premise and a lot of the underlying plot points - vampires, daemons, witches, DNA research, haunted houses - it was a lot of fun. But the whole romance thing really turned me off and I felt that it detracted from the story. Not the actual romance between the vampire and the witch, which is not typical of a fantasy book, but the trite mushiness of it. I've never read a Harlequin Romance but this was sort of what I envision it would be like, and it was annoying. But that said, I've already ordered the second book as I am looking forward to finding out what happens next on their journey.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: bd
I'm kind of conflicted on this book. I really liked the premise and a lot of the underlying plot points - vampires, daemons, witches, DNA research, haunted houses - it was a lot of fun. But the whole romance thing really turned me off and I felt that it detracted from the story. Not the actual romance between the vampire and the witch, which is not typical of a fantasy book, but the trite mushiness of it. I've never read a Harlequin Romance but this was sort of what I envision it would be like, and it was annoying. But that said, I've already ordered the second book as I am looking forward to finding out what happens next on their journey.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Deadly Sins
Author:
Lora Leigh
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
Book 2 in this series about cousins trying to find out who's keeping them from their inheritance by framing them for murder. This book focuses on Logan. Lighter in sexuality than some of Leigh's books but still not a bad summer read.
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
Book 2 in this series about cousins trying to find out who's keeping them from their inheritance by framing them for murder. This book focuses on Logan. Lighter in sexuality than some of Leigh's books but still not a bad summer read.
Seating Arrangements
Author:
Maggie Shipstead
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
I picked this debut novel due to all the hype about it. I was very disappointed and it took me forever to finish. This is a book about a family that "want to be aristocrats in a country that was not suppose to have aristocracy." This book was filled with characters whining about how life didn't give them everything they deserved just because they are who they are. 1st world syndrome at its best. How can you feel sorry for a character that was turned down at a country club because the club didn't like them? Meanwhile, he belonged to many others. How do you engage with characters that can't understand why life isn't always roses? I have enough true reality to keep me occupied. I don't need a hedonistic fake one to keep me entertained. This book just did not stand up to the hype.
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
I picked this debut novel due to all the hype about it. I was very disappointed and it took me forever to finish. This is a book about a family that "want to be aristocrats in a country that was not suppose to have aristocracy." This book was filled with characters whining about how life didn't give them everything they deserved just because they are who they are. 1st world syndrome at its best. How can you feel sorry for a character that was turned down at a country club because the club didn't like them? Meanwhile, he belonged to many others. How do you engage with characters that can't understand why life isn't always roses? I have enough true reality to keep me occupied. I don't need a hedonistic fake one to keep me entertained. This book just did not stand up to the hype.
Kiss of Pride: A Deadly Angel Book
Author:
Sandra Hill
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
I picked this up to read because I like Hill's campy, viking stories. This is 1st book in this new series about vampire-vikings that are eternally repenting for committing one or more of the 7 deadly sins. I was thinking, "Really?!?" On the side, she does joke about how everyone is jumping on the vampire band wagon. Very easy summer read.
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
I picked this up to read because I like Hill's campy, viking stories. This is 1st book in this new series about vampire-vikings that are eternally repenting for committing one or more of the 7 deadly sins. I was thinking, "Really?!?" On the side, she does joke about how everyone is jumping on the vampire band wagon. Very easy summer read.
Matchless - A Christmas Story
Author:
Gregory Maguire
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
A short tale about a boy and his mother. Includes the Match Girl.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
A short tale about a boy and his mother. Includes the Match Girl.
Leela's Book
Author:
Alice Albinia
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
An Indian saga of family, religion, and secrets. An appendix on the pronounciation of Indian names and Hindi religion would have been helpful.
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
An Indian saga of family, religion, and secrets. An appendix on the pronounciation of Indian names and Hindi religion would have been helpful.
Without Fail
Author:
Lee Child
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Another great Jack Reacher book. He is a huge ex-military one man army, but in this book, he does work closely with another. Unfortunately, Tom Cruise thinks he can play this character in a movie - that is pathetic!
Stars: 4
Review by: Mich D
Another great Jack Reacher book. He is a huge ex-military one man army, but in this book, he does work closely with another. Unfortunately, Tom Cruise thinks he can play this character in a movie - that is pathetic!
The Paris Wife
Author:
Paula McLain
Stars: 2
Review by: Mich D
About the first wife of Ernest Hemingway. I had a tough time reading this because she seemed like a complete pushover. I didn't like her character at all and I didn't sympathize with her.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mich D
About the first wife of Ernest Hemingway. I had a tough time reading this because she seemed like a complete pushover. I didn't like her character at all and I didn't sympathize with her.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Ridin' the Wind
Author:
Peter L. Adamski
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
40 short stories, all with a motorcycle theme.
Entertaining, all with surprise type endings.
a self published book by a Hunterdon (Hampton) resident.
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
40 short stories, all with a motorcycle theme.
Entertaining, all with surprise type endings.
a self published book by a Hunterdon (Hampton) resident.
Cat Daddy
Author:
Jackson Galaxy
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
About one third cat advice and the rest about his life as an addict, etc.
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
About one third cat advice and the rest about his life as an addict, etc.
Americans in Paris - Life Under Nazi Occupation
Author:
Charles Glass
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
Goes into great detail about this time. Lots of footnotes.
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
Goes into great detail about this time. Lots of footnotes.
Prey
Author:
Michael Crichton
Stars: 3
Review by: BookWorm2
A decent read, however, the story does get bogged down in technical descriptions quite a bit.
Stars: 3
Review by: BookWorm2
A decent read, however, the story does get bogged down in technical descriptions quite a bit.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
22 Britannia Road
Author:
Amanda Hodgkinson
Stars: 2
Review by: syd
I know people raved about this book. I found it a depressing book about a depressing time in Europe
Stars: 2
Review by: syd
I know people raved about this book. I found it a depressing book about a depressing time in Europe
Pepperoni Pizza Can Be Murder: A Pizza Lover's Mystery
Author:
Chris Cavender
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The 2nd book in this cozy series. The two sisters find themselves investigating a murder mystery on behalf of their friend/employee. The two sisters are also trying to find love and in one case, maybe love again. Easy, fun summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The 2nd book in this cozy series. The two sisters find themselves investigating a murder mystery on behalf of their friend/employee. The two sisters are also trying to find love and in one case, maybe love again. Easy, fun summer read.
Then Came You
Author:
Jennifer Weiner
Stars: 4
Review by: Ann M
The lives of 4 women, Jules, Annie, Betina and India come together through egg donation, surrogacy, marriage, death and birth.
Stars: 4
Review by: Ann M
The lives of 4 women, Jules, Annie, Betina and India come together through egg donation, surrogacy, marriage, death and birth.
Man Made
Author:
Joel Stein
Stars: 4
Review by: mystery lover
Joel Stein goes on a quest to become more manly when he discovers his wife is pregnant with a son. He works with firemen, trains with the army, camps with Boy Scouts, and much more. While he doesn't end up much more manly than when he started, his quest is hilarious and poignant!
Stars: 4
Review by: mystery lover
Joel Stein goes on a quest to become more manly when he discovers his wife is pregnant with a son. He works with firemen, trains with the army, camps with Boy Scouts, and much more. While he doesn't end up much more manly than when he started, his quest is hilarious and poignant!
Shadow Divers
Author: Robert Kurson
Stars: 5
Review by: nanibev
To read this book is to truly share in the actual adventure of 2 American divers as they struggle to identify the U-boat they discover sunken off the Jersey shore. Every step along the way is inspiring. A case where truth far outdistances fiction.
Stars: 5
Review by: nanibev
To read this book is to truly share in the actual adventure of 2 American divers as they struggle to identify the U-boat they discover sunken off the Jersey shore. Every step along the way is inspiring. A case where truth far outdistances fiction.
Bloodline
Author:
James Rollins
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Another Sigma Force adventure -- good techno-thriller.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Another Sigma Force adventure -- good techno-thriller.
A Dance With Dragons
Author:
George R.R. Martin
Stars: 3
Review by: BookDancer
I would rank this #4 out of the 5 books in the series so far. The myriad plot lines are advanced by way too much talking and not enough action. The "cast of thousands" character list is getting way too unwieldy, to the detriment of the main characters' development. That being said, this series is a stunning achievement in fantasy literature. If by book #4, after over 4000 pages, things are a little getting bogged down, we can still be amazed at the scope and breadth of this creation. Will be eagerly awaiting book #6, in hopes of the earlier quality of the first 3 installments.
Stars: 3
Review by: BookDancer
I would rank this #4 out of the 5 books in the series so far. The myriad plot lines are advanced by way too much talking and not enough action. The "cast of thousands" character list is getting way too unwieldy, to the detriment of the main characters' development. That being said, this series is a stunning achievement in fantasy literature. If by book #4, after over 4000 pages, things are a little getting bogged down, we can still be amazed at the scope and breadth of this creation. Will be eagerly awaiting book #6, in hopes of the earlier quality of the first 3 installments.
Unbroken
Author:
Laura Hillenbrand
Stars: 5
Review by: ddlesmom
Powerful story of survival and the human spirit during WW2
Stars: 5
Review by: ddlesmom
Powerful story of survival and the human spirit during WW2
Heaven Is for Real
Author:
Todd Burpo
Stars: 2
Review by: ddlesmom
Message is great but book not well written
Stars: 2
Review by: ddlesmom
Message is great but book not well written
XO
Author:
Jeffrey Deaver
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Plots within the plot, and clever misdirection in all of them
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Plots within the plot, and clever misdirection in all of them
Ghoul Interrupted: A Ghost Hunter Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series has ghostbusting trio returning to her fellow Ghostbuster's tribe in Arizona. There is a demon attacking the Whitefeather people and our trio go out on a mission to stop it. This along with a working on a new romance make it a fun read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series has ghostbusting trio returning to her fellow Ghostbuster's tribe in Arizona. There is a demon attacking the Whitefeather people and our trio go out on a mission to stop it. This along with a working on a new romance make it a fun read.
Lethal Outlook: A Psychic Eye Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series has our main character and her S.O. recuperating from their near death investigation found in the previous story. This book is much lighter than the previous and focuses on missing children cases and wedding prep. I think it was a nice linking story for the next big wedding one to follow.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series has our main character and her S.O. recuperating from their near death investigation found in the previous story. This book is much lighter than the previous and focuses on missing children cases and wedding prep. I think it was a nice linking story for the next big wedding one to follow.
The DaVinci Cook: An Angie Amalfi Mystery
Author:
Joan Pence
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book takes Angie and her Sister, Cat, to Europe to try and clear her sister's name. They get involved with an international murder mystery and both Angies S.O. and Cat's husband come to their rescue. Fun summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book takes Angie and her Sister, Cat, to Europe to try and clear her sister's name. They get involved with an international murder mystery and both Angies S.O. and Cat's husband come to their rescue. Fun summer read.
Sail
Author:
James Patterson & Howard Roughan
Stars:
Review by: Patti K
This was my first ever James Patterson novel. A friend loaned it to me a week or so ago and I put it aside..."Take a Voyage Into Fear" didn't sound like something I wanted to read before bed. I started it this morning and here I am 14 hours later ~ finished the book, LOVED the book ~ but didn't get any laundry done and don't have one piece of clean clothes for work in the morning. Oh well...fun day of reading.
Stars:
Review by: Patti K
This was my first ever James Patterson novel. A friend loaned it to me a week or so ago and I put it aside..."Take a Voyage Into Fear" didn't sound like something I wanted to read before bed. I started it this morning and here I am 14 hours later ~ finished the book, LOVED the book ~ but didn't get any laundry done and don't have one piece of clean clothes for work in the morning. Oh well...fun day of reading.
French by Heart: An American's Family's Adventures in La Belle France
Author:
Rebecca Ramsey
Stars: 2
Review by: Smudge
Memoir of an American family's four-year stay in the Auvergne region of France. Light reading with few culutural insights.
Stars: 2
Review by: Smudge
Memoir of an American family's four-year stay in the Auvergne region of France. Light reading with few culutural insights.
Further Adventures of Sherlock Holmes: The Titanic Tragedy
Author:
William Seil
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Bobjam
Holmes and Watson are on a secret government mission they must solve and get off the boat in time! Entertaining....could use more deductive reasoning. Thank goodness this detective never dies!
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Bobjam
Holmes and Watson are on a secret government mission they must solve and get off the boat in time! Entertaining....could use more deductive reasoning. Thank goodness this detective never dies!
15 Seconds
Author:
Andrew Gross
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
I love Andrew Gross. If you like fast paced, page turning thrillers without the gore but with lots of suspense, this guy has it!
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
I love Andrew Gross. If you like fast paced, page turning thrillers without the gore but with lots of suspense, this guy has it!
The House of Mirth
Author:
Edith Wharton
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Carol
Intense, meaningful, but tedious writing.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Carol
Intense, meaningful, but tedious writing.
Birds of a Feather
Author:
Jacqueline Winspear
Stars: 4
Review by: Barbie
This is the second in the Maisie Dobbs series. A bit slow to get into, but a good story.
Stars: 4
Review by: Barbie
This is the second in the Maisie Dobbs series. A bit slow to get into, but a good story.
The Next Always
Author:
Nora Roberts
Stars: 5
Review by: Patti K
I'm a long-time Nora Roberts fan ~ and this book didn't disappoint. Love Nora ~ loved this book. It's Book One in a trilogy ~ can't wait to read the rest.
Stars: 5
Review by: Patti K
I'm a long-time Nora Roberts fan ~ and this book didn't disappoint. Love Nora ~ loved this book. It's Book One in a trilogy ~ can't wait to read the rest.
Saturday, July 14, 2012
New This Week
Close Your Eyes by Iris Johansen (St.
Martin ’s Press)
Using carefully honed sensory
skills gleaned from a childhood spent blind to solve cases, music therapist
Kendra Michael is tapped by former FBI agent Adam Kyle, who is investigating
the work of a serial killer who may be responsible for the disappearance of
Kendra's ex.
Creole Belle by James Lee Burke (Simon and Schuster)
This book begins where the
last book in the Dave Robicheaux series, The
Glass Rainbow, ended. Dave is in a recovery unit in New Orleans
Fallen Angel by Daniel Silva (Harper Collins)
When a body is found beneath
Michelangelo's dome, Gabriel Allon is summoned to secretly investigate the
death that has been ruled a suicide--a case that brings about an unthinkable
act of sabotage.
The Sandcastle Girls by Chris Bohjalian (Doubleday)
Presents the parallel stories
of a young woman who falls in love with an Armenian soldier while aiding
victims of the Armenian genocide in the early twentieth century, and a young
woman who researches her Armenian heritage and discovers a terrible family
secret.
Tigers in Red Weather by Liza Klaussmann (Little Brown)
ick and her cousin, Helena,
have grown up sharing sultry summer heat, sunbleached boat docks, and midnight
gin parties on Martha's Vineyard in a glorious
old family estate known as Tiger House. In the days following the end of the
Second World War, the world seems to offer itself up, and the two women are on
the cusp of their 'real lives': Helena is off to Hollywood and a new marriage,
while Nick is heading for a reunion with her own young husband, Hughes, about
to return from the war. Soon the gilt begins to crack. Helena
When in Doubt, Add Butter by Beth Harbison (St. Martin ’s Press)
Dedicating herself to her
culinary patrons, private chef Gemma Craig goes home every night to boxed
cereals until an unexpected event compels a confrontation with the past and an
unexpected romance.
Home Front
Author:
Kristin Hannah
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
This book gives you an inside view of what military families go through when one is deployed and comes back injured. Although it is fiction, it has given me a new perspective on what our freedom costs.
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
This book gives you an inside view of what military families go through when one is deployed and comes back injured. Although it is fiction, it has given me a new perspective on what our freedom costs.
November Hunt
Author:
Jess Lourey
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
Really enjoy this "murder by month" series, and this book was no exception!
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
Really enjoy this "murder by month" series, and this book was no exception!
Catching Fire
Author:
Suzanne Collins
Stars: 5
Review by: Marian
The evil is horrible but it does not out-weigh the sacrificing that takes place so that good happens for the people of the districts. I am looking forward to book three.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marian
The evil is horrible but it does not out-weigh the sacrificing that takes place so that good happens for the people of the districts. I am looking forward to book three.
The Shoemaker's Wife
Author:
Adriana Trigiani
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Everything Italian: Alps, family, food, loyalty, immigration and more.
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Everything Italian: Alps, family, food, loyalty, immigration and more.
Afterglow
Author:
Cherry Adair
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
A fast paced para-military in the typical Adair style. Old lost love reunited, families betrayed, murder and mayhem all rolled in a sexy, easy read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
A fast paced para-military in the typical Adair style. Old lost love reunited, families betrayed, murder and mayhem all rolled in a sexy, easy read.
Friday, July 13, 2012
White Truffles in Winter
Author:
N.M. Kelby
Stars: 5
Review by: Smudge
The great chef Escoffier reminisces about love, war, and, of course, food.
Stars: 5
Review by: Smudge
The great chef Escoffier reminisces about love, war, and, of course, food.
Salmon Fishing in the Yemen
Author:
Paul Torday
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Fantastic and fast read with plenty of real world facts to feel like more than a fiction novel.
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Fantastic and fast read with plenty of real world facts to feel like more than a fiction novel.
The Hypnotist's Love Story
Author:
Liane Moriarty
Stars: 2
Review by: Tartu
I did not like it as much as previous novel, What Alice Forgot, and wondered several times, what the point was.
Stars: 2
Review by: Tartu
I did not like it as much as previous novel, What Alice Forgot, and wondered several times, what the point was.
The Last Kind Words
Author:
Tom Piccarelli
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
The characters were really great in spite of being so flawed; they were accepting of their feelings toward Collie and his impending execution and made no apologies.
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
The characters were really great in spite of being so flawed; they were accepting of their feelings toward Collie and his impending execution and made no apologies.
The Dog Who Danced
Author:
Susan Wilson
Stars: 4
Review by: smiley september
A lot of soul searching and sadness within the story. I had to place it down, so I wouldn't get depressed but started to realize that life can be hard in many different ways.
Stars: 4
Review by: smiley september
A lot of soul searching and sadness within the story. I had to place it down, so I wouldn't get depressed but started to realize that life can be hard in many different ways.
On Borrowed Time
Author:
David Rosenfelt
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
A different book theme for Rosenfelt but held my attention. Somewhat futuristic.
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
A different book theme for Rosenfelt but held my attention. Somewhat futuristic.
Betrayal
Author:
Fern Michaels
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Quick read but I could see this happening in reality.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Quick read but I could see this happening in reality.
50 Popular Beliefs That People Think Are True
Author:
Guy P. Harrison
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
WOW-NOT A BOOK for the strong believing and not willing to change mind. I picked this up thinking it was a "Ripley's" type book BUT NO! I was slapped in the face with reality. I almost felt it in reality. I tried to read this from cover to cover but was too bruised so I went at it as a "myth of the day" type thing. I may agree with the author's quote,"We all believe in silly things. What matters is how silly and how many." I kind of agree with. His "hatred: of those that still believe in the face of fact is even worst. He almost despises those that believe no matter what even though they hurt themselves and others. I agree to be aggravated or upset but I don't want to slap them around. I finally read this book a little at a time. I understood the falsehoods and the author's frustration but I still believe in the wonder of the world and what it will bring to us. A tough book but an eye opener. I recommend it just to make you think!
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
WOW-NOT A BOOK for the strong believing and not willing to change mind. I picked this up thinking it was a "Ripley's" type book BUT NO! I was slapped in the face with reality. I almost felt it in reality. I tried to read this from cover to cover but was too bruised so I went at it as a "myth of the day" type thing. I may agree with the author's quote,"We all believe in silly things. What matters is how silly and how many." I kind of agree with. His "hatred: of those that still believe in the face of fact is even worst. He almost despises those that believe no matter what even though they hurt themselves and others. I agree to be aggravated or upset but I don't want to slap them around. I finally read this book a little at a time. I understood the falsehoods and the author's frustration but I still believe in the wonder of the world and what it will bring to us. A tough book but an eye opener. I recommend it just to make you think!
Once Burned: A Night Prince Novel
Author:
Jeaniene Frost
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I know, another vampire book about Vlad and a semi-cozy...but it does give Vlad some "excuses" for his behavior and how he has made it up since. A somewhat powerful read that leads the reader right up to the next book due...Spring 2013. I guess I have to wait!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I know, another vampire book about Vlad and a semi-cozy...but it does give Vlad some "excuses" for his behavior and how he has made it up since. A somewhat powerful read that leads the reader right up to the next book due...Spring 2013. I guess I have to wait!
Tuesdays with Morrie
Author:
Mitch Albom
Stars: 2
Review by: Barbie
With so many deaths in my family lately, I cried through the whole book. Selfishly most of the tears was for myself rather than Morrie and Mitch.
Stars: 2
Review by: Barbie
With so many deaths in my family lately, I cried through the whole book. Selfishly most of the tears was for myself rather than Morrie and Mitch.
On the Island
Author:
Tracey Gravis-Graves
Stars: 5
Review by: Marian
A 16 year old cancer surviver and his 30 year old tutor crash land in the Indian Ocean. The story is about their efforts to live on an island until rescue...and beyond.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marian
A 16 year old cancer surviver and his 30 year old tutor crash land in the Indian Ocean. The story is about their efforts to live on an island until rescue...and beyond.
Plain Truth
Author:
Jodi Picoult
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A story centered around the Pennsylvania Amish and a complicated trial concerning the death of a newborn. As always, Picoult held my interest.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A story centered around the Pennsylvania Amish and a complicated trial concerning the death of a newborn. As always, Picoult held my interest.
Return to Sullivan's Island
Author:
Dorothea Benton Frank
Stars: 3
Review by: Marian
Easy summer read about growing up one summer in the low country.
Stars: 3
Review by: Marian
Easy summer read about growing up one summer in the low country.
Criminal
Author:
Karin Slaughter
Stars: 4
Review by: BookHunter
Slaughter is an excellent crime writer and this read was another thriller.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookHunter
Slaughter is an excellent crime writer and this read was another thriller.
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Vicious Circle
Author:
Todd Ritter
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Love Todd Ritter. Great local author. This is a book available on Kindle only.
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Love Todd Ritter. Great local author. This is a book available on Kindle only.
Gone Girl
Author:
Gillian Flynn
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Took a while to get into it but once I did it was one of the craziest, psychological thrillers I have ever read. I flew through it once I got past about 100 pages.
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Took a while to get into it but once I did it was one of the craziest, psychological thrillers I have ever read. I flew through it once I got past about 100 pages.
Fifty Shades of Grey
Author:
E.L. James
Stars: 2
Review by: Sarah F.
Interesting read. Expected more from the hype!
Stars: 2
Review by: Sarah F.
Interesting read. Expected more from the hype!
The Facts Speak for Themselves
Author:
Brock Cole
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Great book. Bit graphic for YA but dramatic, sad read for adults.
Stars: 4
Review by: Sarah F.
Great book. Bit graphic for YA but dramatic, sad read for adults.
The Last Stand: Custer, Sitting Bull, and the Battle of the Little Big Horn
Author:
Nathaniel Philbrick
Stars: 3
Review by: Sarah F.
Good overview. Not enough about Custer or Sitting Bull. Audio speaker is great!
Stars: 3
Review by: Sarah F.
Good overview. Not enough about Custer or Sitting Bull. Audio speaker is great!
The Last Man
Author:
P.T. Deutermann
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Masada, the legendary Jewish fortress, is the site of this novel, that mixes romance,intrigue,and a surprising ending.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Masada, the legendary Jewish fortress, is the site of this novel, that mixes romance,intrigue,and a surprising ending.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
Author:
John Boyne
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
Bruno is an innocent 9 year old who has no clue as to where he lives and what his father does.
The ending is really shocking.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
Bruno is an innocent 9 year old who has no clue as to where he lives and what his father does.
The ending is really shocking.
Lullaby
Author:
Ace Atkins
Stars: 4
Review by: Karen
Ace Atkins did a good job of capturing Parker's rhythm.
Stars: 4
Review by: Karen
Ace Atkins did a good job of capturing Parker's rhythm.
The Hunger Games
Author:
Suzanne Collins
Stars: 3
Review by: Barbie
How does someone think up such horrid brutality?
Stars: 3
Review by: Barbie
How does someone think up such horrid brutality?
A Glimpse of Evil: A Psychic Eye Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book has our crew staring their new jobs in Texas trying to solve cold cases. The tie in mystery is that of a series of missing children. There is is the usual skeptics and converts to the psychic eye. The story reads fast and has a lot of nice sides to make it fun.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This book has our crew staring their new jobs in Texas trying to solve cold cases. The tie in mystery is that of a series of missing children. There is is the usual skeptics and converts to the psychic eye. The story reads fast and has a lot of nice sides to make it fun.
The Hypnotist's Love Story
Author:
Liane Moriarty
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
After seeing another's post about this book, I picked it up for 2 reasons: 1-I enjoyed "What Alice Forgot" last summer and 2-One of my relatives is going through a stalker-chic thing right now. Unlike the fictional character, the real stalker is much more violent. I use to wonder what was going through the mind of a stalker and after reading this I think I have a pretty clear picture. In Moriarty style, there is an examination of conscience and reflecting on what's truly important in life. A great read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
After seeing another's post about this book, I picked it up for 2 reasons: 1-I enjoyed "What Alice Forgot" last summer and 2-One of my relatives is going through a stalker-chic thing right now. Unlike the fictional character, the real stalker is much more violent. I use to wonder what was going through the mind of a stalker and after reading this I think I have a pretty clear picture. In Moriarty style, there is an examination of conscience and reflecting on what's truly important in life. A great read.
Definitely Not Mr. Darcy
Author:
Karen Doornebos
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Falling in love with Mr. Darcy as a TV reality show.
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Falling in love with Mr. Darcy as a TV reality show.
The Orphanmaster
Author:
Jean Zimmerman
Stars: 4
Review by: line82
Couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed the mystery with a historical perspective.
Stars: 4
Review by: line82
Couldn't put it down. I really enjoyed the mystery with a historical perspective.
The Book Lover
Author:
Maryann McFadden
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
Couldn't wait to see how the intertwined plots would be resolved. The ending, however, seems a bit "fairy-tale-ish".
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
Couldn't wait to see how the intertwined plots would be resolved. The ending, however, seems a bit "fairy-tale-ish".
Die a Stranger
Author:
Steve Hamilton
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
A detailed account of events that take place in a few days.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
A detailed account of events that take place in a few days.
Vision Impossible: A Psychic Eye Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the next to the latest book in this series and really takes one for a loop. There is the background psychic stuff but the international intrigue make the read special. There is also the bottom line that true love can conquer most things. For a long standing series, this was an awesome read!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the next to the latest book in this series and really takes one for a loop. There is the background psychic stuff but the international intrigue make the read special. There is also the bottom line that true love can conquer most things. For a long standing series, this was an awesome read!
Ghouls, Ghouls, Ghouls: A Ghost Hunter Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This Ghost Hunter Mystery examines one's dedication to money or other things. Our team finds themselves in Scotland chasing a very evil ghost. A love affair being questioned, fighting for what is right and truly "sealing" the deal makes this an exciting summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This Ghost Hunter Mystery examines one's dedication to money or other things. Our team finds themselves in Scotland chasing a very evil ghost. A love affair being questioned, fighting for what is right and truly "sealing" the deal makes this an exciting summer read.
The Line Between Here and Gone
Author:
Andrea Kane
Stars: 5
Review by: BookHunter
An infant battles for his life while the search is on for his father to try to save him. This is a great suspense read you won't want to put down.
Stars: 5
Review by: BookHunter
An infant battles for his life while the search is on for his father to try to save him. This is a great suspense read you won't want to put down.
Lone Wolf
Author:
Jodi Picoult
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
Very hard to relate to the character who chose to go into the wild and live as a wolf. I wanted to keep reading to find out the big secrets that were eluded to by the other characters, but it took a loooong time to get to much of their story, and it wasn't all that surprising or moving once I got there. Not the worst book that I've read, but pretty far from the best.
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
Very hard to relate to the character who chose to go into the wild and live as a wolf. I wanted to keep reading to find out the big secrets that were eluded to by the other characters, but it took a loooong time to get to much of their story, and it wasn't all that surprising or moving once I got there. Not the worst book that I've read, but pretty far from the best.
The House Next Door
Author:
Anne Rivers Siddons
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A very different story from Siddons about a house where all the good of its residents seem to be destroyed. Is the house haunted or are the narrators peculiar?
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A very different story from Siddons about a house where all the good of its residents seem to be destroyed. Is the house haunted or are the narrators peculiar?
Flash and Bones
Author:
Kathy Reichs
Stars: 4
Review by: Liza
Not as much actual anthropology as I'd like, but enjoyable nonetheless
Stars: 4
Review by: Liza
Not as much actual anthropology as I'd like, but enjoyable nonetheless
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
I Am Half-Sick of Shadows
Author:
Alan Bradley
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
The latest Flavia de Luce mystery. She is a twelve year old chemist living in England at Buckshaw estate. Somehow she always gets involved in the local murder mystery! She is sassy and smart--the best pint size detective ever!
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
The latest Flavia de Luce mystery. She is a twelve year old chemist living in England at Buckshaw estate. Somehow she always gets involved in the local murder mystery! She is sassy and smart--the best pint size detective ever!
I Remember Nothing
Author:
Nora Ephron
Stars: 3
Review by: bd
Parts were laugh-out-loud funny, other parts were too esoteric. But I miss Nora just the same.
Stars: 3
Review by: bd
Parts were laugh-out-loud funny, other parts were too esoteric. But I miss Nora just the same.
Saturday, July 7, 2012
Outer Banks Mysteries and Seaside Stories
Author:
Charles H. Whedbee
Stars: 3
Review by: Mich D
Cute book that tells about legends in and around the Outer Banks, North Carolina. Includes a few ghost stories.
Stars: 3
Review by: Mich D
Cute book that tells about legends in and around the Outer Banks, North Carolina. Includes a few ghost stories.
Ghouls Gone Wild: A Ghost Hunter Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
4th book in this series brings our team to London to face one of the most powerful and vengeful spirits so far. Murder, romantic friction and twisted pasts make for an exciting read. No matter how powerful the spirits are, nothing is as powerful as the living taken over by greed.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
4th book in this series brings our team to London to face one of the most powerful and vengeful spirits so far. Murder, romantic friction and twisted pasts make for an exciting read. No matter how powerful the spirits are, nothing is as powerful as the living taken over by greed.
Carol Masek
Author:
Lisa See
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
Wonderful read emphasizing fascinating customs and personal relationships.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
Wonderful read emphasizing fascinating customs and personal relationships.
East Is East
Author:
T.C. Boyle
Stars: 4
Review by: bd
Classic T.C. Boyle...either you love him or hate him, I think. I had never heard of this book (published in 1990) and was surprised and excited to have discovered it by accident. In a nutshell: a half-Japanese fugitive jumps ship (literally) and ends up hiding out at an artist's colony on an island in Georgia. Dark and funny, edgy and loquacious (and there were several words I had to look up!) It's not a story for everyone, but I enjoyed it very much.
Stars: 4
Review by: bd
Classic T.C. Boyle...either you love him or hate him, I think. I had never heard of this book (published in 1990) and was surprised and excited to have discovered it by accident. In a nutshell: a half-Japanese fugitive jumps ship (literally) and ends up hiding out at an artist's colony on an island in Georgia. Dark and funny, edgy and loquacious (and there were several words I had to look up!) It's not a story for everyone, but I enjoyed it very much.
11th Hour
Author:
James Patterson
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Vintage James Patterson. Formulaic and a very easy read; no words to look up.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Vintage James Patterson. Formulaic and a very easy read; no words to look up.
Aunt Dimity's Death
Author:
Nancy Atherton
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the 1st book in the Aunt Dimity series. It was a very pleasant read. It starts with our main character, Lori, hitting rock bottom in her life. She then finds out that the main character from her childhood stories, Aunt Dimity, is real but unfortunately deceased. This leads her to an adventure that brings her childhood stories to life and allows her to heal. The story adds some history, paranormal activity and matchmaking to make it a very enjoyable, comforting read. I hope the rest of the series stays at the same level.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the 1st book in the Aunt Dimity series. It was a very pleasant read. It starts with our main character, Lori, hitting rock bottom in her life. She then finds out that the main character from her childhood stories, Aunt Dimity, is real but unfortunately deceased. This leads her to an adventure that brings her childhood stories to life and allows her to heal. The story adds some history, paranormal activity and matchmaking to make it a very enjoyable, comforting read. I hope the rest of the series stays at the same level.
Snow Child
Author:
Eowyn Ivey
Stars: 3
Review by: deckreader
Too supernatural for my liking but it kept my interest.
Stars: 3
Review by: deckreader
Too supernatural for my liking but it kept my interest.
Zero Day: A Novel
Author:
David Baldacci
Stars: 3
Review by: deckreader
Too many acronyms....too much about weapons, but kept my interest.
Stars: 3
Review by: deckreader
Too many acronyms....too much about weapons, but kept my interest.
Heartbroken
Author:
Lisa Unger
Stars: 4
Review by: BookHunter
If you haven't read any of Unger's books you should. This is thriller that I did not want to put down once I started.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookHunter
If you haven't read any of Unger's books you should. This is thriller that I did not want to put down once I started.
Queen Elizabeth and Her Church
Author:
John Hall
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
A look behind the scenes of royal coronations, the building and restoration of Westminster Abbey
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
A look behind the scenes of royal coronations, the building and restoration of Westminster Abbey
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail
Author:
Cheryl Strayed
Stars: 4
Review by: bookmom3
Couldn't put it down!
Stars: 4
Review by: bookmom3
Couldn't put it down!
Grace
Author:
Richard Paul Evans
Stars: 4.5
Review by: mystery lover
A young teenage boy helps a runaway. Good to see a story about someone caring about another person no matter what.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: mystery lover
A young teenage boy helps a runaway. Good to see a story about someone caring about another person no matter what.
Some Assembly Required
Author: Anne Lamott
Stars: 3
Review by: bd
I love Anne Lamott and have read all of her non-fiction, so this was a must-read for me. I enjoyed the story but got a little weary of it at times. There were a few lines that made me laugh out loud. Not her best but I'm still glad I read it.
Stars: 3
Review by: bd
I love Anne Lamott and have read all of her non-fiction, so this was a must-read for me. I enjoyed the story but got a little weary of it at times. There were a few lines that made me laugh out loud. Not her best but I'm still glad I read it.
The House of Velvet and Glass
Author:
Katherine Howe
Stars: 4
Review by: Jambob
This was an interesting read and one of the many fictional books created to commenorate the 100th anniversary of the Titanic. It is of course based in the early 1900's with flash backs to the late 1800's. The time is one where spiritualism became a fad and the setting is Boston. There is the intertwinning of drug use which was not illegal at the time. This is the author's second novel and she is an interesting story teller. The book would have been given a higher rating had she made the story a little tighter in fewer pages. But romance, nostalgia, precognition and the Titanic tragedy are all there!
Stars: 4
Review by: Jambob
This was an interesting read and one of the many fictional books created to commenorate the 100th anniversary of the Titanic. It is of course based in the early 1900's with flash backs to the late 1800's. The time is one where spiritualism became a fad and the setting is Boston. There is the intertwinning of drug use which was not illegal at the time. This is the author's second novel and she is an interesting story teller. The book would have been given a higher rating had she made the story a little tighter in fewer pages. But romance, nostalgia, precognition and the Titanic tragedy are all there!
Make the Bread, Buy the Butter
Author:
Jennifer Reese
Stars: 3
Review by: pla
If you like to read cookbooks, this was a chatty, fun read with easy recipes for familiar favorites.
Stars: 3
Review by: pla
If you like to read cookbooks, this was a chatty, fun read with easy recipes for familiar favorites.
Ghouls Just Haunt to Have Fun: A Ghost Hunter Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The 3rd book in this series has our team heading out to CA to film a TV show called, "Haunted Possessions." The show takes a back seat while the real haunting takes place in the hotel they are staying with. This story adds some international intrigue to make it fun reading. It also introduces us to a new member of the team and a new direction for the story line.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The 3rd book in this series has our team heading out to CA to film a TV show called, "Haunted Possessions." The show takes a back seat while the real haunting takes place in the hotel they are staying with. This story adds some international intrigue to make it fun reading. It also introduces us to a new member of the team and a new direction for the story line.
Doom With a View: A Psychic Eye Mystery
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The 7th book in this series has our dynamic duo being asked to assist the FBI in a multiple missing persons case. They are assigned to a very skeptical Agent that constantly test's their ability. This book was faster paced and had a few added twist to make it stand out from the other books in the series while maintaining the base story line. The end of the story leads the reader to another beginning and wanted to read the next book. On the side, I wish I had a "crew" to watch out for me like they do in the story.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The 7th book in this series has our dynamic duo being asked to assist the FBI in a multiple missing persons case. They are assigned to a very skeptical Agent that constantly test's their ability. This book was faster paced and had a few added twist to make it stand out from the other books in the series while maintaining the base story line. The end of the story leads the reader to another beginning and wanted to read the next book. On the side, I wish I had a "crew" to watch out for me like they do in the story.
New This Week
The After Wife by Gigi Levangie Grazer (Ballantine
Books)
As she pours out her grief and questions to a tree in her
backyard after her husband's death, reality show producer Hannah is astonished
when the tree appears to respond, prompting Hannah's discovery that she can
communicate with the dead.
Backfire by Catherine Coulter (Putnam)
When a San Francisco
15 Seconds by Andrew Gross (Harper Collins)
When a random act of violence plunges him into a nightmarish
world, Henry Steadman, a successful surgeon accused of murdering two people,
must clear his name and discover who is trying to destroy him in order to save
himself and his family.
The Great Escape by Susan Elizabeth Phillips (William
Morrow)
In this hilariously
heartwarming sequel to Call Me Irresistible, Lucy Jorik, the daughter of the
former president of the U.S.
I, Michael Bennett by James Patterson (Little Brown)
Detective Michael Bennett
takes his family to upstate New York in an
effort to escape a lawless crime wave erupting in Manhattan
Night Watch by Linda Fairstein (Dutton)
While assisting in the case
of a high-profile politician who has been arrested for allegedly attacking a
maid in his hotel, Alexandra Cooper begins to suspect a connection to a murder
case with ties to her boyfriend, restaurateur Luc Rouget.
You Know When the Men Are Gone
Author:
Siobhan Fallon
Stars: 4
Review by: Judy
Interesting novel reflecting the effects of war on families who are left at home.
Stars: 4
Review by: Judy
Interesting novel reflecting the effects of war on families who are left at home.
The KenKen Killings
Author:
Parnell Hall
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
This author keeps you interested throughout the book. One mystery writer that doesn't follow the usual format, so far.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
This author keeps you interested throughout the book. One mystery writer that doesn't follow the usual format, so far.
A Land More Kind Than Home
Author:
Wiley Cash
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
told in the first person - except it was several "first persons" - in a laconic but surprisingly riveting manner.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
told in the first person - except it was several "first persons" - in a laconic but surprisingly riveting manner.
The Dukan Diet Cookbook: The Essential Companion to the Dukan Diet
Author:
Dr. Pierre Dukan
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
Being from a family with known insulin resistance, I've been researching this disease and diets for years. I saw this book on the new book list and decided to see if it was something new. Sorry to say it's just Atkins but French. The only program difference I saw was that during maintenance you need to maintain 1 day as all protein vs keeping a balance. Dr. Dukan does believe that we overeat and gain weight due to psychological reasons such as pleasure. (No mention of the body's ability to adapt or homeostatic imbalances.) His diet is based on finding foods that fulfill the psyche and nutritional need. The recipes are modern and appear to be relatively simple. There are the "Dr. Dukan" products that are used but he provides the reader with the QR code so you can go right to the ordering website. The recipes do not have any nutritional information along with them nor do they tell you when they should be use best. On the plus side, he does add more plant protein info into the mix. In the end...SSDD. I will post comments as I try some of the recipes.
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
Being from a family with known insulin resistance, I've been researching this disease and diets for years. I saw this book on the new book list and decided to see if it was something new. Sorry to say it's just Atkins but French. The only program difference I saw was that during maintenance you need to maintain 1 day as all protein vs keeping a balance. Dr. Dukan does believe that we overeat and gain weight due to psychological reasons such as pleasure. (No mention of the body's ability to adapt or homeostatic imbalances.) His diet is based on finding foods that fulfill the psyche and nutritional need. The recipes are modern and appear to be relatively simple. There are the "Dr. Dukan" products that are used but he provides the reader with the QR code so you can go right to the ordering website. The recipes do not have any nutritional information along with them nor do they tell you when they should be use best. On the plus side, he does add more plant protein info into the mix. In the end...SSDD. I will post comments as I try some of the recipes.
Wanted: Undead or Alive
Author:
Kerrelyn Sparks
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series tackles the age old taboos of inter-species (Vampire vs Were) love affairs and female independence. This along with a good vs bad fight makes for a fun para-normal read. In the end, love conquers all at least in fiction.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series tackles the age old taboos of inter-species (Vampire vs Were) love affairs and female independence. This along with a good vs bad fight makes for a fun para-normal read. In the end, love conquers all at least in fiction.
Orange Is the New Black: My Year in a Women's Prison
Author:
Piper Kerman
Stars: 4
Review by: bd
While the story kept me interested and engaged, I felt somewhat disconnected to the author. There were short glimpses of her emotional state as she dealt with serving a 13-month term in a minimum-security federal prison, but left me wanting to know more about how she felt, not just what happened. But a good read overall.
Stars: 4
Review by: bd
While the story kept me interested and engaged, I felt somewhat disconnected to the author. There were short glimpses of her emotional state as she dealt with serving a 13-month term in a minimum-security federal prison, but left me wanting to know more about how she felt, not just what happened. But a good read overall.
Swan
Author:
Frances Mayes
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
The descriptions were beautiful, but the story had no resolution. Maybe I just prefer stories that have an ending.
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
The descriptions were beautiful, but the story had no resolution. Maybe I just prefer stories that have an ending.
The Extraordinary Education of Nicholas Benedict
Author:
Trenton Lee Stewart
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A prequel to the Mysterious Benedict Society trilogy. The writing is superb as always, and although classified as a children's book, has much to interest adults a well.
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A prequel to the Mysterious Benedict Society trilogy. The writing is superb as always, and although classified as a children's book, has much to interest adults a well.
Beautiful Ruins
Author:
Jess Walter
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
An eminently readable novel weaving both different time periods and several plots into a satifying conclusion
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
An eminently readable novel weaving both different time periods and several plots into a satifying conclusion
Till Death Do Us Purl
Author:
Anne Canadeo
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
Fun mystery. If you've liked the others in this series, you'll likely enjoy this one, too!
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
Fun mystery. If you've liked the others in this series, you'll likely enjoy this one, too!
Death of a Kitchen Diva
Author:
Lee Holis
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
Quick, fun read. Author may have tried a little too hard to have every demographic represented in the characters, but in a way, that added some humor to the story.
"First in a new series;" I'm not holding my breath until the next one comes out, but I'd probably pick it up if I stumble across it on the library shelves!
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
Quick, fun read. Author may have tried a little too hard to have every demographic represented in the characters, but in a way, that added some humor to the story.
"First in a new series;" I'm not holding my breath until the next one comes out, but I'd probably pick it up if I stumble across it on the library shelves!
Grace Among Thieves: A Manor House Mystery
Author:
Julie Hyzy
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest installment of this series has Grace recouping after her latest, unexpected crisis. While do so, there is a film crew at the House, a thief and a murderer. The story really sends Grace on a loop-d-loop. Fun, enjoyable, easy read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
The latest installment of this series has Grace recouping after her latest, unexpected crisis. While do so, there is a film crew at the House, a thief and a murderer. The story really sends Grace on a loop-d-loop. Fun, enjoyable, easy read.
The Columbus Affair
Author:
Steve Berry
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Christopher Columbus, _converso_ and putative founder of a Jewish homeland in the New World. These are ideas that have been bounced around previously by academics, but never within the context of a thriller. Interesting premise.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Christopher Columbus, _converso_ and putative founder of a Jewish homeland in the New World. These are ideas that have been bounced around previously by academics, but never within the context of a thriller. Interesting premise.
Vets Might Fly
Author:
James Herriot
Stars: 1
Review by: Judy
Very disappointing. I really enjoyed his other books but this was boring.
Stars: 1
Review by: Judy
Very disappointing. I really enjoyed his other books but this was boring.
A Place in the Country
Author:
Elizabeth Adler
Stars: 4
Review by: BookHunter
Excellent story and another great book by Adler. It had me captivated from the moment I started to the finish.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookHunter
Excellent story and another great book by Adler. It had me captivated from the moment I started to the finish.
The Union Quilters
Author: Jennifer Chiaverini
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A historical fiction about a group of women and their families in Pennsylvania and the effects the Civil War had on them. A good story with interesting information on the war.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A historical fiction about a group of women and their families in Pennsylvania and the effects the Civil War had on them. A good story with interesting information on the war.
Tough Customer
Author:
Sandra Brown
Stars: 3
Review by: Marian
Another intriguing story by Sandra Brown. Likable characters with a good story line.
Stars: 3
Review by: Marian
Another intriguing story by Sandra Brown. Likable characters with a good story line.
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies
Author: Jane Austen & Seth Grahame Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
For Jane Austen fans with a sense of humor. The familiar society of the Bennets and Darcys is hindered only by a plague of zombies attacking the gentle folk on their daily rounds of morning visits, teas, balls and weekend visits. Elizabeth and her sisters are revealed to be fierce warriors trained in the Deadly Arts to vanquish and behead every Unmentionable in their path, garden or kitchen. A wacky & well-crafted back story of characters who daily balanced social teas with ninja attacks.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
For Jane Austen fans with a sense of humor. The familiar society of the Bennets and Darcys is hindered only by a plague of zombies attacking the gentle folk on their daily rounds of morning visits, teas, balls and weekend visits. Elizabeth and her sisters are revealed to be fierce warriors trained in the Deadly Arts to vanquish and behead every Unmentionable in their path, garden or kitchen. A wacky & well-crafted back story of characters who daily balanced social teas with ninja attacks.
Fall of Giants
Author:
Ken Follett
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Follett repeats his success with historical fiction, this time shining light on everyday life during World War I. Blending the lives of Welsh miners, Russian peasants, British aristocrats, German soldiers and an American diplomat, Fall is a social, political and economic epic with several love stories woven in at opportune moments.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Follett repeats his success with historical fiction, this time shining light on everyday life during World War I. Blending the lives of Welsh miners, Russian peasants, British aristocrats, German soldiers and an American diplomat, Fall is a social, political and economic epic with several love stories woven in at opportune moments.
The Age of Miracles
Author:
Karen Walker Thompson
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
The earth's rotation is slowing. As people struggle to cope with longer days & nights, stronger gravity and other changes, 12 year old Julia also struggles to cope with peer pressure, her parents strained marriage, a troubled boyfriend. Told from Julia's point of view, the gradual changes are confusing but often seem less important than a friend who moves away.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
The earth's rotation is slowing. As people struggle to cope with longer days & nights, stronger gravity and other changes, 12 year old Julia also struggles to cope with peer pressure, her parents strained marriage, a troubled boyfriend. Told from Julia's point of view, the gradual changes are confusing but often seem less important than a friend who moves away.
Bonefire of the Vanities: A Sarah Booth Delaney Mystery
Author:
Carolyn Haines
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series takes us to the aftermath of their latest caper. Our dynamic duo is called to "watch over" an elder, very wealthy woman, by the resident precog. While watching, there is murder, intrigue, love and adventure. The end has a twist I didn't see coming, and I saw a few. Have fun and read this book!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series takes us to the aftermath of their latest caper. Our dynamic duo is called to "watch over" an elder, very wealthy woman, by the resident precog. While watching, there is murder, intrigue, love and adventure. The end has a twist I didn't see coming, and I saw a few. Have fun and read this book!
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Just Jennifer
The Other Woman by Hank Phillippi Ryan (Forge, September
2012)
If you have never read a mystery by Hank Phillippi Ryan it
is time you did and The Other Woman is a brilliant place to start. This is the first book
to feature news reporter Jane Ryland and Detective Jake Brogan. Jane Ryland thought she had it all as a
rising television star with Channel 11 news in Boston ; when the station is hit with, and
loses, a slander suit after Jane refuses to reveal her source, Jane finds
herself jobless and a known in the local press as “Wrong-Guy Ryland”. The editor at the Boston Register is willing to give Jane a chance as a favor to Jake
Brogan who has worked with Jane in the past and with whom Jane shares a mutual
attraction, though they both know, especially know, they must not even give a
hint of impropriety. The first
assignment Jane is given is to cover the Senate candidate, and former
governor’s wife, Moira Lassiter, who has all but vanished from the campaign
trial. Not pleased with the puff piece
assignment, Jane keeps her mouth shut, happy to have any assignment at all, but
beings to poke around more than her editor asked. Jake is working on two murder cases, both
women found dead near bridges in the Charles River . Residents of Boston
are concerned there is a serial killer loose, but Jake assures them that the
deaths are unfortunate coincidences and there are a lot of bridges spanning the
Charles River .
When a third body is found, Jane is stunned as it is the body of the
witness she protected at trial. Jake
suspects the woman is Jane’s source, as does her newspaper. As Jane learns more about the latest death,
she realizes there may be a way to clear her name without admitting to her
source and is able to convince Jake he may need to take a closer look at the
first two deaths as Jane thinks she has found a connection between the three
young women. At the same time, Jane is
tracking down leads as to why Moira has been staying out of the spotlight and
what her husband Owen has been up to in his spare time.
Ryan misses no detail.
Everything in this story is there for a reason and it is up to the
reader to figure out why and what importance a person or event has. The plotting is tight, the pacing tense but
brisk. The outcome of the Bridge Killer
is not impossible to figure out, though there is one nice twist for Jane. What comes out of Jane’s investigation into
Moira Lassiter is surprising as are the details surrounding Owen’s campaign for
Senator. Jane and Jake are
well-developed characters who can go in as many directions as Ryan chooses to
take them. A pitch-perfect thriller with
the best words to see in a description of a book: First in a New Series.