Author:
Julia Stuart
Stars:
5
Review by:BookWorm2
Much like The Tower, The Zoo and The Tortoise, Ms. Stuart has created
a fantastic story rife with legitimate facts regarding both London's
history and aristocracy. A delightful read with a slight Sherlock
Holmes flavor towards the end.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
By the Light of the Silvery Moon
Author:
Tricia Goyer
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
2012 marked the 100th year since the sinking of the Titanic. Many authors of fiction wrote books with this event as a back drop to the story. Ms. Goyer is a Christian author who used the biblical story of the prodigal son to play out on the Titanic. With dexterity she wove facts and descriptions of the world's most famous ship into a story of forgiveness, acceptance and romance. I have read many books about the Titanic mostly non-fiction. It was pleasant to read about it as if you were visiting this ship with all the sights sounds and wonder of a passenger on a maiden voyage.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
2012 marked the 100th year since the sinking of the Titanic. Many authors of fiction wrote books with this event as a back drop to the story. Ms. Goyer is a Christian author who used the biblical story of the prodigal son to play out on the Titanic. With dexterity she wove facts and descriptions of the world's most famous ship into a story of forgiveness, acceptance and romance. I have read many books about the Titanic mostly non-fiction. It was pleasant to read about it as if you were visiting this ship with all the sights sounds and wonder of a passenger on a maiden voyage.
VB6: Eat Vegan Before 6:00 to Lose Weight and Restore Your Health...for Good
Author:
Mark Bittman
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
I waited a while to receive this book (many holds before me in the line!) and had high expectations for it. It was okay. Mark Bittman has an entertaining writing style, even in describing nutrition and research. That being said, as someone who has been dabbling in vegan-ism for the past few years, I did not find much new information or many impressive recipes in this book. For someone who has done any research in plant based nutrition, or has even limited experience cooking/eating this way, you're not going to find much in this book. If this is a new concept for you, then this is probably a great book for you! Lots of explanation of the "why" and plenty of practical ideas to get you started on your way to better life and healthier eating.
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
I waited a while to receive this book (many holds before me in the line!) and had high expectations for it. It was okay. Mark Bittman has an entertaining writing style, even in describing nutrition and research. That being said, as someone who has been dabbling in vegan-ism for the past few years, I did not find much new information or many impressive recipes in this book. For someone who has done any research in plant based nutrition, or has even limited experience cooking/eating this way, you're not going to find much in this book. If this is a new concept for you, then this is probably a great book for you! Lots of explanation of the "why" and plenty of practical ideas to get you started on your way to better life and healthier eating.
Just Jennifer
How to Be a Good Wife by Emma Chapman (St. Martin’s Press, October
2013)
From all appearances, Marta Bjornstad is a perfect wife: her
husband Hector, twenty years her senior, takes care of her, her son Kylan has
grown into a fine young man and she keeps an impeccably clean house and cares
for Hector often referring to an outdated book, How to Be a Good Wife, which was presented to her on her wedding
day by her mother-in-law. Marta has no memory
of her life before Hector and knows of their meeting and early days only from
what he has told her, that he rescued her from a near drowning and that her
parents had been killed in a car accident.
Marta is often on edge and considered depressed, sometimes seeing things
or hearing things; Hector makes her take pills to combat these feelings, but
Marta’s visions are becoming stronger and lately she is beginning to sense that
her visions may not be dreams but vivid memories of her past life. As Marta tries to regain her sense of
normalcy, it seems everyone around her is determined to push her deeper into
despair until she has nothing left.
Tense and haunting, it is often hard to discern which of
Marta’s realities is the truth or is her visions truly are a result of her
being mad. Clues about the truth are slowly
revealed and then just as quickly countered by an alternate story to cast
doubt. Marta’s attempt to please Hector
and in turn his mother, seems to Marta at first the least she can do for all
Hector has done and provided for her, until she realizes Hector may not be at
all what he seems. As Marta’s story unravels
so does Marta; the story is alternately dark and eerie with glimmers of hope
until Marta firms herself to do the one thing that she knows will finally set
her free.
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Scrapped
Author:
Mollie Cox Bryan
Stars: 2
Review by:L.Z.
I hate to start a book and not finish it, but this one was so hard to get through...perhaps because I picked up something that wasn't the first in the series, but honestly...I think that my third grader has a better writing style and a more interesting vocabulary.
Stars: 2
Review by:L.Z.
I hate to start a book and not finish it, but this one was so hard to get through...perhaps because I picked up something that wasn't the first in the series, but honestly...I think that my third grader has a better writing style and a more interesting vocabulary.
Home: A Short History of an Idea
Author:
Witold Rybczynski
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary NK
A fascinating examination of what makes a house, a home; how the feelings of comfort, coziness & belonging came to be associated with a mere shelter. Witold theorizes that Dutch women, keeping their houses clean & neat, were a major force in this transformation.
Stars: 3
Review by: Mary NK
A fascinating examination of what makes a house, a home; how the feelings of comfort, coziness & belonging came to be associated with a mere shelter. Witold theorizes that Dutch women, keeping their houses clean & neat, were a major force in this transformation.
If I Die in a Combat Zone, Box Me Up and Ship Me Home
Author:
Tim O'Brien
Stars: 5
Review by:smudge
This short memoir of an infantry soldier in Vietnam debates morality and courage while fighting a war that was unlike any other American initiative. Powerful and well written.
Stars: 5
Review by:smudge
This short memoir of an infantry soldier in Vietnam debates morality and courage while fighting a war that was unlike any other American initiative. Powerful and well written.
Dream When You're Feeling Blue
Author:
Elizabeth Berg
Stars: 5
Review by: TML
This book on tape is exceptional. It is a beautiful look back in time to the early 1940's during WWII to a family in Chicago and how their lives at home, relationships, and choices were impacted by the war. I highly recommend it.
Stars: 5
Review by: TML
This book on tape is exceptional. It is a beautiful look back in time to the early 1940's during WWII to a family in Chicago and how their lives at home, relationships, and choices were impacted by the war. I highly recommend it.
Memoirs of a Poet
Author:
Timothy Taylor Woldt
Stars: 3
Review by: BookWorm2
A noble first attempt by a budding poet. All of the poems stem from real-life experiences. A fast read.
Stars: 3
Review by: BookWorm2
A noble first attempt by a budding poet. All of the poems stem from real-life experiences. A fast read.
Can You Keep a Secret?
Author:
Sophie Kinsella
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Kinsella's books are always a good read.
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Kinsella's books are always a good read.
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Tuesday's Child
Author:
Fern Michaels
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Very different from a typical Fern Michaels book.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Very different from a typical Fern Michaels book.
Tiny Beautiful Things: Advice on Love and Life from Dear Sugar
Author:
Cheryl Strayed
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Miss Lucy
This was actually a re-read for me (something I hardly EVER do) from the early Spring. I liked this book then and I like it even more now. In the early Summer, I had read and reviewed (4 stars) Strayed's bestseller Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail. Feeling that I knew Cheryl better, I wanted to re-read this book of excerpts taken from her advice column, Dear Sugar, on the writers' website therumpus.com. I was impressed on my first read with how Cheryl got right to the heart of the questioners' dilemmas, often even telling them that they already knew what they should do, based on things they said in their letters.
On my second read, I was again blown away by her ability to get right to the heart of every person's question. I also understood her advice more, based on what I read about her in Wild.
Before writing Wild and Tiny Beautiful Things, Cheryl fulfilled a dream of hers of writing a novel, Torch. I'm in the middle of reading that right now, so stay tuned for my third review of Ms. Strayed's works.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Miss Lucy
This was actually a re-read for me (something I hardly EVER do) from the early Spring. I liked this book then and I like it even more now. In the early Summer, I had read and reviewed (4 stars) Strayed's bestseller Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail. Feeling that I knew Cheryl better, I wanted to re-read this book of excerpts taken from her advice column, Dear Sugar, on the writers' website therumpus.com. I was impressed on my first read with how Cheryl got right to the heart of the questioners' dilemmas, often even telling them that they already knew what they should do, based on things they said in their letters.
On my second read, I was again blown away by her ability to get right to the heart of every person's question. I also understood her advice more, based on what I read about her in Wild.
Before writing Wild and Tiny Beautiful Things, Cheryl fulfilled a dream of hers of writing a novel, Torch. I'm in the middle of reading that right now, so stay tuned for my third review of Ms. Strayed's works.
All the Summer Girls
Author:
Meg Donohue
Stars: 3
Review by: Book Dancer
References to Philly and Avalon, NJ will appeal to readers looking for local color! There aren't many novels out there set at the Jersey shore.
Stars: 3
Review by: Book Dancer
References to Philly and Avalon, NJ will appeal to readers looking for local color! There aren't many novels out there set at the Jersey shore.
The Full Cupboard of Life
Author:
Alexander McCall Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Another charming visit with Mma Ramotswe and friends. Love listening to these gentle tales while driving. Sometimes I'll go a little further just to keep listening!
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Another charming visit with Mma Ramotswe and friends. Love listening to these gentle tales while driving. Sometimes I'll go a little further just to keep listening!
The Wheel of Fortune
Author:
Susan Howatch
Stars: 3
Review by: Deck Reader
Interesting story, but too long.
Stars: 3
Review by: Deck Reader
Interesting story, but too long.
Dad Is Fat
Author:
Jim Gaffigan
Stars: 5
Review by:libraryaimee
If you have kids you will love this book by stand-up comedian Jim Gaffigan! He is raising five kids in a two bedroom Manhattan apartment with his wife. His stories are hysterical!
Stars: 5
Review by:libraryaimee
If you have kids you will love this book by stand-up comedian Jim Gaffigan! He is raising five kids in a two bedroom Manhattan apartment with his wife. His stories are hysterical!
Best Staged Plans
Author:
Claire Cook
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A funny book about mid-life crisis, retiring, and love.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A funny book about mid-life crisis, retiring, and love.
Sea Glass Island
Author:
Sherryl Woods
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Another delightful Ocean Breeze title. Must be read while sitting in your beach chair at the ocean's edge!
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Another delightful Ocean Breeze title. Must be read while sitting in your beach chair at the ocean's edge!
Wind Chime Point
Author:
Sherryl Woods
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
From the Ocean Breeze series, this is a perfect beach read, especially if you're on the beach!
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
From the Ocean Breeze series, this is a perfect beach read, especially if you're on the beach!
The Waiting
Author:
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
It is a story of the Amish, but even more the story of a woman, sometimes triumphant, sometimes struggling, carried through turbulent times by a plain faith.
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
It is a story of the Amish, but even more the story of a woman, sometimes triumphant, sometimes struggling, carried through turbulent times by a plain faith.
Vanya
Author:
Myrna Grant
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
This is a book of faith and persecution in Russia for Christians.
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
This is a book of faith and persecution in Russia for Christians.
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Please Look After Mom
Author:
Kyung-Sook Shin
Stars: 2
Review by: BookDancer
South Korean blockbuster best-seller about a Mom who goes missing in a subway station and the different reactions of family members dealing with their subsequent loss and guilt. Great idea; should have been a 5 but was disjointed, confusing and preachy. Maybe something got lost in the translation!
Stars: 2
Review by: BookDancer
South Korean blockbuster best-seller about a Mom who goes missing in a subway station and the different reactions of family members dealing with their subsequent loss and guilt. Great idea; should have been a 5 but was disjointed, confusing and preachy. Maybe something got lost in the translation!
The Night is Watching
Author:
Heather Graham
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I enjoy this mystery series since it is paranormal with skepticism. This one felt like I read it before, but I haven't. This story used theater, mannequins, and old-west history and current murders with a ghostly twist. It was enjoyable, but still felt like it's been done before.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I enjoy this mystery series since it is paranormal with skepticism. This one felt like I read it before, but I haven't. This story used theater, mannequins, and old-west history and current murders with a ghostly twist. It was enjoyable, but still felt like it's been done before.
The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic and Madness at the Fair that Changed America
Author:
Erik Larson
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Fascinating dual accounts of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and the serial killer at large throughout the Exposition. I lived in Chicago for 5 years and never knew about its version of "Jack-the-Ripper." Great non-fiction read.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Fascinating dual accounts of the 1893 Chicago World's Fair and the serial killer at large throughout the Exposition. I lived in Chicago for 5 years and never knew about its version of "Jack-the-Ripper." Great non-fiction read.
The Things They Carried
Author:
Tim O'Brien
Stars: 4
Review by: Avid Reader
This was my son's summer reading book. I picked it up to see what he was reading, and it peaked my interest. This book gave me a glimpse of the cruel reality of the Vietnam War.
Stars: 4
Review by: Avid Reader
This was my son's summer reading book. I picked it up to see what he was reading, and it peaked my interest. This book gave me a glimpse of the cruel reality of the Vietnam War.
Meet Me at the Emotional Baggage Claim
Author:
Lisa Scottoline & Francesca Serritella
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A series of very short chronicles taken from their column. Some are very funny.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A series of very short chronicles taken from their column. Some are very funny.
The Diplomat's Wife
Author:
Pam Jenoff
Stars: 3
Review by: Barb
Lots of intrigue and mystery with some history thrown in, not always quite believable. It was a good, quick summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Barb
Lots of intrigue and mystery with some history thrown in, not always quite believable. It was a good, quick summer read.
Let the Dead Sleep
Author:
Heather Graham
Stars: 3
Review by: Jambob
Dark and dank New Orleans where evil dwells and good will struggle and triumph. An antique (evil) Italian bust must be found and destroyed before it adds more lives to its wake of destruction.
Stars: 3
Review by: Jambob
Dark and dank New Orleans where evil dwells and good will struggle and triumph. An antique (evil) Italian bust must be found and destroyed before it adds more lives to its wake of destruction.
Latte Trouble
Author:
Cleo Coyle
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Book 3 in this series, has our main character still sleuthing, but re-addressing her personal life as she tries to help an employee. I really learned a lot about coffee and I hope to learn more.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Book 3 in this series, has our main character still sleuthing, but re-addressing her personal life as she tries to help an employee. I really learned a lot about coffee and I hope to learn more.
Someday, Someday, Maybe
Author:
Lauren Graham
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
Talented actress Lauren Graham, who played Lorelei, Rory's mother, on Gilmore Girls, narrates the audiobook of her debut novel. Just like on Gilmore Girls, Lauren speaks at breakneck speed, but once I got used to that, and got my head around her not BEING Lorelei, I got hooked on this story and its characters. Franny, the protagonist, has given herself a deadline by which time she has to make it in New York as an actress, before she'll call it quits. Follow her progress as she struggles on the peripheries of success. While I laughed with Franny, and sighed at times, THIS wannabe actress/novelist thoroughly enjoyed the tale, and was sad to see it end.
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
Talented actress Lauren Graham, who played Lorelei, Rory's mother, on Gilmore Girls, narrates the audiobook of her debut novel. Just like on Gilmore Girls, Lauren speaks at breakneck speed, but once I got used to that, and got my head around her not BEING Lorelei, I got hooked on this story and its characters. Franny, the protagonist, has given herself a deadline by which time she has to make it in New York as an actress, before she'll call it quits. Follow her progress as she struggles on the peripheries of success. While I laughed with Franny, and sighed at times, THIS wannabe actress/novelist thoroughly enjoyed the tale, and was sad to see it end.
New York Days, New York Nights
Author:
Stephen Brook
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
A series of essays about living in NYC during the late 70's, early 80's. Boy, have things changed. Written by an English long term visitor to the city.
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
A series of essays about living in NYC during the late 70's, early 80's. Boy, have things changed. Written by an English long term visitor to the city.
The Character of Cats
Author:
Stephen Budiansky
Stars: 2
Review by: Pam B
A little too scientific for me.
Stars: 2
Review by: Pam B
A little too scientific for me.
How to Eat a Cupcake
Author:
Meg Donohue
Stars: 3
Review by: Barb
A nice, light summer beach read about two young women who put their past hurts aside to become the sister-like friends that they used to be........all over a cupcake bakery.
Stars: 3
Review by: Barb
A nice, light summer beach read about two young women who put their past hurts aside to become the sister-like friends that they used to be........all over a cupcake bakery.
The Union Street Bakery
Author:
Mary Ellen Taylor
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A good mix of baking, family, and finding answers from the past.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A good mix of baking, family, and finding answers from the past.
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Sandrine's Case
Author:
Thomas H. Cook
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Present to the past..over and over. Interesting, but annoying.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Present to the past..over and over. Interesting, but annoying.
Amity & Sorrow
Author:
Peggy Riley
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
This is a novel about a woman who escapes from her husband and polygamous family with her two daughters. One daughter is very disturbed and cannot readjust to life outside the cult. It is a crazy story, but so, so good!
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
This is a novel about a woman who escapes from her husband and polygamous family with her two daughters. One daughter is very disturbed and cannot readjust to life outside the cult. It is a crazy story, but so, so good!
Friday, August 16, 2013
The Choice
Author:
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
I loved it. It's about the wonderful world of the Amish. A loving story of love and forgiveness.
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
I loved it. It's about the wonderful world of the Amish. A loving story of love and forgiveness.
Thursday, August 15, 2013
A Painted House
Author:
John Grisham
Stars: 4
Review by: Reader
Not a legal thriller, and very enjoyable also.
Stars: 4
Review by: Reader
Not a legal thriller, and very enjoyable also.
Death of a Red Heroine
Author: Qiu Xiaolong
Stars: 4
Review by: Reader
A View of China's policies around the 90's in a good novel.
Stars: 4
Review by: Reader
A View of China's policies around the 90's in a good novel.
Friends Forever
Author:
Danielle Steel
Stars: 3
Review by: PattiK
The theme was too repetitive with the characters.
Stars: 3
Review by: PattiK
The theme was too repetitive with the characters.
Redshirts
Author:
John Scalzi
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
My Hubby got this book out after seeing Mr. Scalzi on w00tFest. My Hubby said that this was a must read book. Loved it. Imagine finding out you exist because somewhere you are part of someone's story. I know this has been done before but now throw in a campy Sci-Fi series like StarTrek and you got a funny book. Enjoy!
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
My Hubby got this book out after seeing Mr. Scalzi on w00tFest. My Hubby said that this was a must read book. Loved it. Imagine finding out you exist because somewhere you are part of someone's story. I know this has been done before but now throw in a campy Sci-Fi series like StarTrek and you got a funny book. Enjoy!
Through the Grinder: A Coffeehouse Mystery
Author:
Cleo Coyle
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the 2nd book in this series and I was impressed by it. It's a cozy with a lot of emotion and not necessarily a happy ending. This series is based around a very old, family run coffee roaster & house. There are great coffee recipes and coffee trivia included. In this book the main character needs to find out if her new love interest is really a serial killer. Good read!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the 2nd book in this series and I was impressed by it. It's a cozy with a lot of emotion and not necessarily a happy ending. This series is based around a very old, family run coffee roaster & house. There are great coffee recipes and coffee trivia included. In this book the main character needs to find out if her new love interest is really a serial killer. Good read!
The Beach House
Author:
Mary Alice Monroe
Stars: 5
Review by: Ann M
Great book about a mother and daughter reconnecting after many years and working through their relationship.
Stars: 5
Review by: Ann M
Great book about a mother and daughter reconnecting after many years and working through their relationship.
Acceptance: A Legendary Guidance Counselor Helps Seven Kids Find the Right Colleges - And Find Themselves
Author:
David L. Marcus
Stars: 5
Review by: Miss Lucy
Self-described by the author as narrative nonfiction blended with a reader-friendly how-to guide, this book is amazing. I could hardly put it down - something I usually don't experience with nonfiction. Smitty is the guidance counselor from Heaven... he's everything we thought a guidance counselor would be, before we got to high school and realized we were dreaming. This book chronicles Smitty's final year as guidance counselor, with his high school senior class of 2008. Follow along as he works his magic with a select handful of students, as he advises, cajoles, and gently steers each student to be the best he or she can be, and as he seems to know just which colleges each should pursue.
If you are a rising high school senior, or a parent of one, you will love this book right now.
Stars: 5
Review by: Miss Lucy
Self-described by the author as narrative nonfiction blended with a reader-friendly how-to guide, this book is amazing. I could hardly put it down - something I usually don't experience with nonfiction. Smitty is the guidance counselor from Heaven... he's everything we thought a guidance counselor would be, before we got to high school and realized we were dreaming. This book chronicles Smitty's final year as guidance counselor, with his high school senior class of 2008. Follow along as he works his magic with a select handful of students, as he advises, cajoles, and gently steers each student to be the best he or she can be, and as he seems to know just which colleges each should pursue.
If you are a rising high school senior, or a parent of one, you will love this book right now.
Wednesday, August 14, 2013
From the Grounds Up
Author:
Sandra Balzo
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
Could've been any number of characters.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
Could've been any number of characters.
Death Angel
Author:
Linda Fairstein
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
No one writes NYC crime like Fairstein. Her research into the settings she chooses is meticulous.
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
No one writes NYC crime like Fairstein. Her research into the settings she chooses is meticulous.
A Lady Cyclist's Guide to Kashgar
Author:
Suzanne Joinson
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Barb
Two tales that weave themselves together. I enjoyed reading about the daring and adventuresome lives that some people have.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Barb
Two tales that weave themselves together. I enjoyed reading about the daring and adventuresome lives that some people have.
Proof of Heaven: A Neurosurgeon's Journey Into the Afterlife
Author:
Eben Alexander, M.D.
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm
The messages presented by Dr. Alexander are that, for the Christian, death is not the end, and that true born-again Christians have an eternal home to look forward to.
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm
The messages presented by Dr. Alexander are that, for the Christian, death is not the end, and that true born-again Christians have an eternal home to look forward to.
Assaulted Pretzel
Author:
Laura Bradford
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm
About the people in Heavenly, Pa. A good mystery.
Stars: 4
Review by: Bookworm
About the people in Heavenly, Pa. A good mystery.
When I Stop Talking, You'll Know I'm Dead: Useful Stories From a Persuasive Man
Author:
Jerry Weintraub
Stars: 4
Review by: LateNightReader
The full title of this book is When I Stop Talking, You'll Know I'm Dead: Useful Stories From a Persuasive Man. I'm not sure how "useful" the stories are, but they sure are interesting! Surprisingly, I had never heard of Jerry Weintraub before. He has worked with such a variety of people over the past 50+ years, many of the stars that I have enjoyed during my life. I enjoyed the stories about Elvis, John Denver, Dorothy Hamill, Bobby Fischer, to name a few. It is interesting how he worked to make his career and theirs happen and he does this in short chapters that flow pretty quickly.
Stars: 4
Review by: LateNightReader
The full title of this book is When I Stop Talking, You'll Know I'm Dead: Useful Stories From a Persuasive Man. I'm not sure how "useful" the stories are, but they sure are interesting! Surprisingly, I had never heard of Jerry Weintraub before. He has worked with such a variety of people over the past 50+ years, many of the stars that I have enjoyed during my life. I enjoyed the stories about Elvis, John Denver, Dorothy Hamill, Bobby Fischer, to name a few. It is interesting how he worked to make his career and theirs happen and he does this in short chapters that flow pretty quickly.
I'd Like to Apologize to Every Teacher I Ever Had: My Year as a Rookie Teacher at Northeast High
Author:
Tony Danza
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A recommended read for anyone who knows a teacher, wants to be a teacher or has an opinion about teachers.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A recommended read for anyone who knows a teacher, wants to be a teacher or has an opinion about teachers.
The Last Newspaperman
Author:
Mark Di Ionno
Stars: 4
Review by: BKF
About a newspaper reporter who stumbles into the Lindberg kidnapping case and finds himself in the middle of the action, a romance gone wrong, and other major happenings during that time period. It's always interesting to read about local places and events in a novel... Hopewell, the Hindenburg, Flemington, etc.
Stars: 4
Review by: BKF
About a newspaper reporter who stumbles into the Lindberg kidnapping case and finds himself in the middle of the action, a romance gone wrong, and other major happenings during that time period. It's always interesting to read about local places and events in a novel... Hopewell, the Hindenburg, Flemington, etc.
The Winter Ghosts
Author:
Kate Mosse
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Lyrical tale of loss and redemption set in Languedoc following WWI. Hated it to end!
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Lyrical tale of loss and redemption set in Languedoc following WWI. Hated it to end!
The Newcomer
Author:
Robyn Carr
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
Excellent book. Much better than the first one in the trilogy.
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
Excellent book. Much better than the first one in the trilogy.
The Accidental Demon Slayer
Author:
Angie Fox
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the first book in a series. The main character is a pre-school teacher that has OCD down pat. There she is, getting ready for her very-well planned 30th B-day party and all hell breaks loose - literally. The rest of the story is about her coming into her powers to try and stop a high level demon. Fun, easy, summer read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is the first book in a series. The main character is a pre-school teacher that has OCD down pat. There she is, getting ready for her very-well planned 30th B-day party and all hell breaks loose - literally. The rest of the story is about her coming into her powers to try and stop a high level demon. Fun, easy, summer read.
Demons Are Forever: Confessions of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom
Author:
Julie Kenner
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I had to go back to this middle book because I didn't read it. It filled in a lot of gaps in the later books... a lot of explanations that helped explain the later books. The main character now has a daughter that is the same age as when she started demon hunting. What's a mother to do? Plus have a 3 yr old and a dead husband come back to life. Enjoy, but reading the books in order does help.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I had to go back to this middle book because I didn't read it. It filled in a lot of gaps in the later books... a lot of explanations that helped explain the later books. The main character now has a daughter that is the same age as when she started demon hunting. What's a mother to do? Plus have a 3 yr old and a dead husband come back to life. Enjoy, but reading the books in order does help.
Mrs. Kimble
Author:
Jennifer Haigh
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Car-Lay
I really enjoyed the character development in this novel. It Is the story of three women who marry the same duplicitous man, Ken Kimble. Ken, a "serial husband", is revealed through the eyes of each woman he seduces. The women are of different generations and have different expectations of men and marriage. The women are not victims and Ken is just an ordinary man who happens to satisfy the needs of these women when they meet. We see through the relationships in Mrs. Kimble, the changes in our perception of marriage, divorce and family dynamics from the 1960's to the 90's.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Car-Lay
I really enjoyed the character development in this novel. It Is the story of three women who marry the same duplicitous man, Ken Kimble. Ken, a "serial husband", is revealed through the eyes of each woman he seduces. The women are of different generations and have different expectations of men and marriage. The women are not victims and Ken is just an ordinary man who happens to satisfy the needs of these women when they meet. We see through the relationships in Mrs. Kimble, the changes in our perception of marriage, divorce and family dynamics from the 1960's to the 90's.
Undead and Unsure
Author:
MaryJanice Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I really thought this series was over books ago but with the ability to alter timelines, anything is possible. Once again Betsy is trying to find her way as Vampire Queen and not ending the world as we know it. Find out what her new role is by reading the book! Enjoy!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I really thought this series was over books ago but with the ability to alter timelines, anything is possible. Once again Betsy is trying to find her way as Vampire Queen and not ending the world as we know it. Find out what her new role is by reading the book! Enjoy!
Bomb Shell
Author:
Catherine Coulter
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Saraswati
I got hooked onto this series when my Hubby bought me the first Sherlock/Savich book. As with any series, it has its ups and downs. I get this is a lead in to a new series but it did add some twists. It's always interesting to have two or more story lines come together. A good summer read!
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Saraswati
I got hooked onto this series when my Hubby bought me the first Sherlock/Savich book. As with any series, it has its ups and downs. I get this is a lead in to a new series but it did add some twists. It's always interesting to have two or more story lines come together. A good summer read!
The Last Word: Books by the Bay Mystery
Author:
Ellery Adams
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
This was an awesome cozy. It is about book #3 so I have some catching up to do but I don't know why I really liked it. It could be the quotes at the start of every chapter or it could be that it semi-followed the cozy format. There was the standard murder, inquiry, all solved in the end but the reading just seemed a little bit higher level. Hope others read the series.
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
This was an awesome cozy. It is about book #3 so I have some catching up to do but I don't know why I really liked it. It could be the quotes at the start of every chapter or it could be that it semi-followed the cozy format. There was the standard murder, inquiry, all solved in the end but the reading just seemed a little bit higher level. Hope others read the series.
The Humans: A Novel
Author:
Matt Haig
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Got this book because it was listed as one of the "Must read" sci-fi books this summer and someone in our group rated it highly. I thought about this book a lot and think it is either a 1 or a 5 rating and I still go back and forth and here is why (run on sentence-not an English major :) )
First I have to get over the fact that a super intelligent race of beings that lives galaxies away from ours is actually interested in us. Plus since they were super intelligent, they should know we adapt or perish. Just like today - Technology moved too fast and we have issues that correspond. So why care? Then if logic rules this life form why is the alien so whiny?
Now to the story. I loved the humor of misunderstanding our mixed "moral" codes, the use of high level math, the trying to learn what it is to be human. I wanted to show this to all my fellow math/sci teachers until I pondered on the book. In the end I felt let down. In this day and age where geeks, math & science are looked down upon, how can you say that these things do not make us human? How many fish, dogs, etc. do you know who can do combinatorial calculations? I get that emotions do set us apart from other animals but so does logic. Non-human animals do not ponder why prime numbers are what they are. Why can't logic, math, science, etc. be beautiful and human? I enjoy being a geeky human that can look at a tree and see both its beauty of being plus the mathematical progressions in the leaves, plus the thermodynamics of why this tree is what it is, plus... I feel that if love and poetry are what make us human, there are a lot of humans left out in the cold.
Again, I really like the book until I thought about it. I also read about the author and his trials so... I just get tired of being told that because I can do logical things that I'm not truly human. I would love others' input. I know it's fiction but it can influence a lot of people. Please post comments or read the book!
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Got this book because it was listed as one of the "Must read" sci-fi books this summer and someone in our group rated it highly. I thought about this book a lot and think it is either a 1 or a 5 rating and I still go back and forth and here is why (run on sentence-not an English major :) )
First I have to get over the fact that a super intelligent race of beings that lives galaxies away from ours is actually interested in us. Plus since they were super intelligent, they should know we adapt or perish. Just like today - Technology moved too fast and we have issues that correspond. So why care? Then if logic rules this life form why is the alien so whiny?
Now to the story. I loved the humor of misunderstanding our mixed "moral" codes, the use of high level math, the trying to learn what it is to be human. I wanted to show this to all my fellow math/sci teachers until I pondered on the book. In the end I felt let down. In this day and age where geeks, math & science are looked down upon, how can you say that these things do not make us human? How many fish, dogs, etc. do you know who can do combinatorial calculations? I get that emotions do set us apart from other animals but so does logic. Non-human animals do not ponder why prime numbers are what they are. Why can't logic, math, science, etc. be beautiful and human? I enjoy being a geeky human that can look at a tree and see both its beauty of being plus the mathematical progressions in the leaves, plus the thermodynamics of why this tree is what it is, plus... I feel that if love and poetry are what make us human, there are a lot of humans left out in the cold.
Again, I really like the book until I thought about it. I also read about the author and his trials so... I just get tired of being told that because I can do logical things that I'm not truly human. I would love others' input. I know it's fiction but it can influence a lot of people. Please post comments or read the book!
Until the End of Time
Author:
Danielle Steel
Stars: 1
Review by: Jambob
Boring, improbable romance and foolish circumstances. Ms. Steel must be running on fumes for her story lines. Skip this one.
Stars: 1
Review by: Jambob
Boring, improbable romance and foolish circumstances. Ms. Steel must be running on fumes for her story lines. Skip this one.
The Forgetting Tree
Author:
Tatjana Soli
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Very off-beat plot but I was hooked to the very end.
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Very off-beat plot but I was hooked to the very end.
This Town
Author:
Mark Liebovich
Stars: 1
Review by: BigDa
Inside stories about money grubbers posing as policy makers.
Stars: 1
Review by: BigDa
Inside stories about money grubbers posing as policy makers.
Tapestry of Fortunes
Author:
Elizabeth Berg
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Elizabeth Berg writes stories I enjoy reading. Although this is not her best book, it was a good story.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Elizabeth Berg writes stories I enjoy reading. Although this is not her best book, it was a good story.
The Oracle Glass
Author:
Judith Merkle Riley
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Superb historical fiction, set in the Paris of Louis Quatorze. A fictionalized account of the "witches" of Paris, who were involved in the Affaire des Poisons, an attempt by the King's mistress to poison him.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Superb historical fiction, set in the Paris of Louis Quatorze. A fictionalized account of the "witches" of Paris, who were involved in the Affaire des Poisons, an attempt by the King's mistress to poison him.
The Second Messiah
Author:
Glenn Meade
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
Archaeological thriller set in the Holy Land. An ancient scroll is discovered at Qumran, just as a new Pope is chosen. Both events upset factions within the Church, leading to mayhem.
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
Archaeological thriller set in the Holy Land. An ancient scroll is discovered at Qumran, just as a new Pope is chosen. Both events upset factions within the Church, leading to mayhem.
Meg: Origins
Author:
Steve Alten
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
Novella detailing the backstory of the author's "MEG" series, aka "Jurassic Shark" in the words of one reviewer.
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
Novella detailing the backstory of the author's "MEG" series, aka "Jurassic Shark" in the words of one reviewer.
Prime
Author:
Jeremy Robinson & Sean Ellis
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
The origins of Chess Team, an extra-elite military team which features in a number of Robinson's other books.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
The origins of Chess Team, an extra-elite military team which features in a number of Robinson's other books.
Bloodman
Author:
Robert Pobi
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
I can't say that I "enjoyed" this book, as it deals with a horribly disturbing series of murders, but it kept me guessing, and the ending was COMPLETELY unexpected, though the author did leave plenty of clues.
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
I can't say that I "enjoyed" this book, as it deals with a horribly disturbing series of murders, but it kept me guessing, and the ending was COMPLETELY unexpected, though the author did leave plenty of clues.
Crunch Time
Author:
Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
#16 in the Goldy Bear mystery series, and her most recent before the new title due soon.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
#16 in the Goldy Bear mystery series, and her most recent before the new title due soon.
Tuesday, August 13, 2013
Fatally Flaky
Author:
Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
#15 in the Goldy Bear mystery series. Goldy needs to figure out who killed her godfather while also trying to cater a wedding for Bridezilla.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
#15 in the Goldy Bear mystery series. Goldy needs to figure out who killed her godfather while also trying to cater a wedding for Bridezilla.
Sweet Revenge
Author:
Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
#14 in the Goldy Bear mystery series. Murder among antique map dealers and a very tasty-sounding recipe for Potatoes au gratin.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
#14 in the Goldy Bear mystery series. Murder among antique map dealers and a very tasty-sounding recipe for Potatoes au gratin.
The Lost Army of Cambyses
Author:
Paul Sussman
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Archaeological thriller set in Egypt, complete with lost tombs and terrorists.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Archaeological thriller set in Egypt, complete with lost tombs and terrorists.
We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves
Author:
Karen Joy Fowler
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
I was intrigued by the title, and I wanted to love this book. But it didn't happen. It was an enjoyable read, but I just couldn't get very emotionally involved with the characters. I don't know why. They were likable and interesting, and the book had enough twists and turns, but it just never grabbed me. It's the story of Rosemary, a girl (now a young woman) who grew up in an unusual family situation. Bit by bit, we, along with Rosemary, put together memories and pieces of the past in order to make sense of it. Not only that, but Rosemary has to learn how to integrate her past into her adult identity.
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
I was intrigued by the title, and I wanted to love this book. But it didn't happen. It was an enjoyable read, but I just couldn't get very emotionally involved with the characters. I don't know why. They were likable and interesting, and the book had enough twists and turns, but it just never grabbed me. It's the story of Rosemary, a girl (now a young woman) who grew up in an unusual family situation. Bit by bit, we, along with Rosemary, put together memories and pieces of the past in order to make sense of it. Not only that, but Rosemary has to learn how to integrate her past into her adult identity.
Because of Mr. Terupt
Author:
Rob Buyea
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
Even though this book is Juvenile Fiction, I enjoyed it very much. Imagine having the perfect fifth grade teacher, who impacts each of his students in a positive way. Imagine being that first year teacher, and the satisfaction that comes from being able to reach out to your students in meaningful ways. Then, one day, something unexpected happens to throw everyone off balance. See how the students grow and mature in dealing with the situation.
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
Even though this book is Juvenile Fiction, I enjoyed it very much. Imagine having the perfect fifth grade teacher, who impacts each of his students in a positive way. Imagine being that first year teacher, and the satisfaction that comes from being able to reach out to your students in meaningful ways. Then, one day, something unexpected happens to throw everyone off balance. See how the students grow and mature in dealing with the situation.
Return to Sender
Author:
Fern Michaels
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
A typical, light, summer "romance novel" with the usual extraordinary, successful characters.
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
A typical, light, summer "romance novel" with the usual extraordinary, successful characters.
Saturday, August 10, 2013
Strip Tease
Author:
Carl Hiaasen
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
A political message ensconced in hilarious sexual wrapping.
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
A political message ensconced in hilarious sexual wrapping.
The Fate of Mercy Alban
Author:
Wendy Webb
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
Spooky, creepy dark passageways, secret hiding places and an age old family mystery. A few dead bodies and a mother and daughter trying to hold it together at an ancestral estate Mansion. I looked over at my clock and realized I finished reading the book at mid-nite! Chills.....
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
Spooky, creepy dark passageways, secret hiding places and an age old family mystery. A few dead bodies and a mother and daughter trying to hold it together at an ancestral estate Mansion. I looked over at my clock and realized I finished reading the book at mid-nite! Chills.....
The Chaperone
Author:
Laura Moriarty
Stars: 5
Review by: Smudge
A well written, and very good story about growing and understanding.
Stars: 5
Review by: Smudge
A well written, and very good story about growing and understanding.
Wolf Hall
Author: Hilary Mantel
Stars: 2
Review by: Barb
I found this long book of historical fiction difficult and cumbersome to read. There were so many characters, many with the name of Thomas, and the author often used the pronoun "he" without reminding the reader who "he" was. The book has received wonderful reviews and awards, and I found some of it enjoyable when I could follow the story
Stars: 2
Review by: Barb
I found this long book of historical fiction difficult and cumbersome to read. There were so many characters, many with the name of Thomas, and the author often used the pronoun "he" without reminding the reader who "he" was. The book has received wonderful reviews and awards, and I found some of it enjoyable when I could follow the story
Best Kept Secret
Author:
Jeffrey Archer
Stars: 2
Review by: Carol
Rather disappointing as I for closure was hoping, but left with a cliff-hanger ending.
Stars: 2
Review by: Carol
Rather disappointing as I for closure was hoping, but left with a cliff-hanger ending.
Summer Sisters
Author:
Judy Blume
Stars: 3
Review by: NancyW421
Good light beach read about friends who go away every summer to Martha's Vineyard, since they were 13.
Stars: 3
Review by: NancyW421
Good light beach read about friends who go away every summer to Martha's Vineyard, since they were 13.
Touch & Go
Author:
Lisa Gardner
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
This book was thrilling and amazing. Best I have read in awhile. The mystery remains until the last few pages. Very well written novel.
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
This book was thrilling and amazing. Best I have read in awhile. The mystery remains until the last few pages. Very well written novel.
Same Kind of Different as Me
Author:
Ron Hall & Denver Moore
Stars: 5
Review by: Lrizza
Compelling memoir. It was filled with emotion and spirituality. This book will stay with me for a very long time.
Stars: 5
Review by: Lrizza
Compelling memoir. It was filled with emotion and spirituality. This book will stay with me for a very long time.
The Week Before the Wedding
Author:
Beth Kendrick
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Funny, fast read. Predictable but very enjoyable.
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Funny, fast read. Predictable but very enjoyable.
Trust & Deception
Author:
Melissa J. Troutman
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
A Christian fiction thriller! Sounds like an oxymoron, but Ms. Troutman pulled it off flawlessly! It kept me on the edge of my seat, and showed God's presence in an FBI agent's dangerous life.
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
A Christian fiction thriller! Sounds like an oxymoron, but Ms. Troutman pulled it off flawlessly! It kept me on the edge of my seat, and showed God's presence in an FBI agent's dangerous life.
Meet Me in Venice
Author:
Elizabeth Adler
Stars: 3
Review by: Car-Lay
This was an easy book to listen to on tape in the car. The story has mystery, romance, betrayal, intrigue and supporting girlfriends who help the main character through heartbreak and deceit.
Stars: 3
Review by: Car-Lay
This was an easy book to listen to on tape in the car. The story has mystery, romance, betrayal, intrigue and supporting girlfriends who help the main character through heartbreak and deceit.
Kitty in the Underworld
Author:
Carrie Vaughn
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest Kitty Norville book and it has Kitty being kidnapped by a strange band of supernaturals. Can this group be trusted; can they defeat a common enemy; is this the end or just the beginning (a song in there somewhere :))? Read to find out.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest Kitty Norville book and it has Kitty being kidnapped by a strange band of supernaturals. Can this group be trusted; can they defeat a common enemy; is this the end or just the beginning (a song in there somewhere :))? Read to find out.
21st Century Dead: A Zombie Anthology
Author:
Christopher Golden (ed.)
Stars: 4
Review by: Michelle D
Short zombie stories. Really good if you like the genre. One of the authors wrote Robopocolypse, which is being made into a movie. Another wrote Ender's Game. Great writing, fun read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Michelle D
Short zombie stories. Really good if you like the genre. One of the authors wrote Robopocolypse, which is being made into a movie. Another wrote Ender's Game. Great writing, fun read.
Paddington Here and Now
Author:
Michael Bond
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Written 50 years after the first Paddington book, this book follows the same delightful formula as the first. A delightful read!
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Written 50 years after the first Paddington book, this book follows the same delightful formula as the first. A delightful read!
The Last Nude
Author:
Ellis Avery
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
Paris in the late 20's, artist Tamara de Lempicka, a model that inspires her best paintings, love, money, manipulation, betrayal... it's all here.
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
Paris in the late 20's, artist Tamara de Lempicka, a model that inspires her best paintings, love, money, manipulation, betrayal... it's all here.
The King of Torts
Author:
John Grisham
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
I learn something interesting about the law everytime I read a John Grisham book.
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
I learn something interesting about the law everytime I read a John Grisham book.
A Week in Winter
Author: Maeve Binchy
Stars: 4
Review by: Car-Lay
This is the first book I've read by Binchy and I really enjoyed it. Her character development is very good and she introduces her characters one by one, each with their own chapter. They all meet for a weeks vacation in an old, beautifully renovated inn on the Atlantic coast of Ireland. Each chapter is a like a short story but she does not spend much time developing the interactions between the characters while they are staying at the inn. That is the only thing I found lacking in the book and I felt it ended abruptly. Maybe I just wanted to know more about what happened next for the characters!
Stars: 4
Review by: Car-Lay
This is the first book I've read by Binchy and I really enjoyed it. Her character development is very good and she introduces her characters one by one, each with their own chapter. They all meet for a weeks vacation in an old, beautifully renovated inn on the Atlantic coast of Ireland. Each chapter is a like a short story but she does not spend much time developing the interactions between the characters while they are staying at the inn. That is the only thing I found lacking in the book and I felt it ended abruptly. Maybe I just wanted to know more about what happened next for the characters!
If You Were Here
Author: Jen Lancaster
Stars: 4
Review by: line82
Good beach read. Typical Jen Lancaster channeling John Hughes.
Stars: 4
Review by: line82
Good beach read. Typical Jen Lancaster channeling John Hughes.
The Heist
Author:
Janet Evanovich & Lee Goldberg
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Enjoyed this campy, funny book. It has the Evanovich humor but feels a little more substantial than the Plum series. This book is about an FBI agent being paired up with a known con-man to try and catch even bigger criminals. The con-man is there as a way to get out of jail and the FBI agent is there because she follows orders. They are set to have a 5 year relationship so there are definitely more books to come. First they have to try and con a con. Enjoy!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Enjoyed this campy, funny book. It has the Evanovich humor but feels a little more substantial than the Plum series. This book is about an FBI agent being paired up with a known con-man to try and catch even bigger criminals. The con-man is there as a way to get out of jail and the FBI agent is there because she follows orders. They are set to have a 5 year relationship so there are definitely more books to come. First they have to try and con a con. Enjoy!
The Christie Curse
Author:
Victoria Abbott
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
A fun cozy read for a new series. A young woman follows in the heels of her deceased predecessor to find a written play authored by Agatha Christie when she disappeared from society for 11 days. Resourceful, spunky, with a quirky family to keep you interested and looking for the second book in the series.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
A fun cozy read for a new series. A young woman follows in the heels of her deceased predecessor to find a written play authored by Agatha Christie when she disappeared from society for 11 days. Resourceful, spunky, with a quirky family to keep you interested and looking for the second book in the series.
The Worst Hard Time
Author:
Timothy Egan
Stars: 4
Review by: Mystery Girl
Hauntingly written book about the trials and tribulations of those who endured the devastation referred to as, the Dust Bowl.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mystery Girl
Hauntingly written book about the trials and tribulations of those who endured the devastation referred to as, the Dust Bowl.
The Quilter's Daughter
Author:
Wanda E. Brunstetter
Stars: 5
Review by: bookworm
The wonderful story of an Amish family. You can't help but fall in love with the Amish. A great book.
Stars: 5
Review by: bookworm
The wonderful story of an Amish family. You can't help but fall in love with the Amish. A great book.
The Search
Author:
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Stars: 5
Review by: bookworm
My heart was touched by this book. It is the story of two young Amish women. They find everything in the end - young love, forgiveness, and healing.
Stars: 5
Review by: bookworm
My heart was touched by this book. It is the story of two young Amish women. They find everything in the end - young love, forgiveness, and healing.
The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency
Author:
Alexander McCall Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
I've been wanting to read this forever and finally listened to the audiobook. It was a great story and family friendly! My husband and son listened to the last disc with me and loved it...we all enjoyed the accent of the reader too!
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
I've been wanting to read this forever and finally listened to the audiobook. It was a great story and family friendly! My husband and son listened to the last disc with me and loved it...we all enjoyed the accent of the reader too!
Friday, August 9, 2013
My Lucky Life In and Out of Show Business
Author:
Dick Van Dyke
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A wonderful memoir of an amazing performer with not a speck of sensationalism or "dirt" in sight. The audio book is narrated by the author himself. A must read (or listen) for any fan.
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A wonderful memoir of an amazing performer with not a speck of sensationalism or "dirt" in sight. The audio book is narrated by the author himself. A must read (or listen) for any fan.
The Cavedweller
Author:
Dorothy Allison
Stars: 3
Review by: Lrizza
The book was a little boring at times. The characters were well written. The author made them seem like real people.
Stars: 3
Review by: Lrizza
The book was a little boring at times. The characters were well written. The author made them seem like real people.
Tainted (The Blood Lily Chronicles)
Author:
Julie Kenner
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Unlike regular TV, I didn't have to wait until next week to find out the ending of this trilogy. Lily has to make a decision as to whether she becomes Queen of the Demons or sacrifices herself, in a not too pleasant way, to stop Armageddon. A big battle between good and evil wages on. Does Lily make the right choice? Read the series to find out.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Unlike regular TV, I didn't have to wait until next week to find out the ending of this trilogy. Lily has to make a decision as to whether she becomes Queen of the Demons or sacrifices herself, in a not too pleasant way, to stop Armageddon. A big battle between good and evil wages on. Does Lily make the right choice? Read the series to find out.
Torn (The Blood Lily Chronicles)
Author:
Julie Kenner
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Book #2 in the trilogy has Lily/Alice trying to figure out a way to stop Armageddon. In this book Lily plays a double agent working for good by pretending to work for evil. She is also trying to save her real sister and protect Alice's sister. Can she do what she needs to do and still stay on the side of good? Need to read the next book in the series.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Book #2 in the trilogy has Lily/Alice trying to figure out a way to stop Armageddon. In this book Lily plays a double agent working for good by pretending to work for evil. She is also trying to save her real sister and protect Alice's sister. Can she do what she needs to do and still stay on the side of good? Need to read the next book in the series.
Turned (The Blood Lily Chronicles)
Author:
Julie Kenner
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Book 1 in this trilogy introduces the main character Lily who is now in Alice's body. Lily is turned into a demon hunter and believes that she is fighting for good, but is she? Need to read the next in the series.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Book 1 in this trilogy introduces the main character Lily who is now in Alice's body. Lily is turned into a demon hunter and believes that she is fighting for good, but is she? Need to read the next in the series.
Just Jennifer
Justice for Sara by Erica Spindler (St. Martin’s Press,
August 2013)
Ten years ago, Kat McCall, then seventeen, was acquitted by
a jury of her peers in the murder of her sister Sara, but not their friends and
neighbors in the small town of Liberty, Louisiana. Kat has returned to Liberty, haunted by her
sister’s murder, still unsolved, hoping to get some answers; she is not
expecting the town to roll out the red carpet for her, but she is met with more
hostility than she expected. Detective
Luke Tanner, acting chief of police and son of man who was chief of police ten
years ago believes Kat and agrees to reopen her sister’s case and that of the
Liberty police officer who was killed the same night as Sara and whose murder
has still never been solved. While the
people in Liberty don’t forget, they also protect their own and Kat is no
longer one of them. Kat, haunted by the
past, becomes the target of some vicious pranks; a softball bat (the murder
weapon) left on a bed, tied with a red ribbon, a keyed car and a letter with
the message “What about justice for Sara?” As Kat searches for answers, she
comes to learn more about her sister and about herself, is able to heal and
solves a ten-year-old mystery as she forces a town to take a look at itself and
how it cares for its own. Taut plotting
keeps the suspense high as Kat faces her worst fear: maybe something she did contributed to her
sister’s death.
Just Jennifer
Save Yourself by Kelly Braffet (Crown, August 2013)
Patrick Cusimano’s father is in jail after a drunken driving
accident that killed a first-grader.
Patrick and his brother Mike think they are now doing the best they can:
Mike is working at a warehouse and his moved his new girlfriend Caro into the
house; Patrick is working the overnight at the crumbier convenience store in
town. Patrick, the one who finally
called the police on his father, is taking things more to heart than Mike,
especially after Layla Elshere, a goth teenager walks into his life and tries
to befriend him. Layla’s father is a
charismatic minister and is not pleased with the way Layla has been conducting
herself. Layla’s younger sister Verna, a
freshman in high school has become the target of some very cruel classmates and
Verna is afraid to turn them in after the to-do that ensued when her father learned
a biology teacher was teaching sex ed.
As she tries to insulate herself against the cruel treatment she is
receiving, Verna finds herself drawn to Layla’s circle of friends who, while
protective of Verna grown even darker and ever more dangerous as time passes.
Damaged characters populate this novel and readers watch
helplessly as bad choices are made and hopelessness becomes accepted and the
feeling that “this is my reality, deal with it” sets in. As the title suggests, some characters can be
saved while others are beyond redemption, but some are innocent bystanders who
get caught up in the fervor of it all.
The book beings and ends with a tragedy and in between, some try over
and over to fight and survive while others just let things happen to them.
Just Jennifer
The Edge of Normal by Carla Norton (Minotaur, September
2013)
Six years after she was rescued from three years of
captivity, twenty-two year old Reeve LeClaire is still trying to reclaim her
life. She still has weekly therapy
sessions with Dr. Ezra Lerner, has a job at a Japanese restaurant and feels
reasonably confident she can handle the impending Thanksgiving dinner with her
family. Dr. Lerner is called away from
San Francisco to help a recently rescued young girl who had been held captive
and tortured. Before Tilly’s family will
agree to hire Dr. Lerner, they want to speak with Reeve first. Reeve is understandably hesitant but
realizing her family still sees her as a victim, she heads to Jefferson County
where she learns Tilly is one of three young girls to have been recently
kidnapped, but Tilly’s captor convincingly claims to have no knowledge of the
other two girls. Tilly and Reeve form a
bond over their shared experience and Tilly reveals there was a second man who
did most of the torturing, but she is afraid to reveal this to the police, even
though she is unable to identify him.
Tilly’s captor is killed while in custody sending warning signs through
the investigative team and to Reeve who starts looking into some things she
thinks the team may have overlooked; someone is watching and waiting, though,
and time may just be running out for two little girls and even for Reeve.
Tightly plotted this is a complex psychological thriller
that explores victims, survivors, their families and the minds of the
captors. Reeve’s decision to help Dr. Lerner
is an impulsive one for her, but she quickly acclimates when she has someone
else to focus on besides herself.
Smartly plotted and fast-paced, The
Edge of Normal has characters to root for along with some truly evil villains.
Just Jennifer
Some Nerve: Lessons Learned While Becoming Brave by Patty
Change Anker (Riverhead, October 2013)
When Patty Chang Anker turned forty, she realized how many
things made her fearful; some of these things she could name: water was easy,
as was the fear that her two adopted daughters, ten-year-old Gigi and
five-year-old Ruby would get hurt, experience disappointment or be
unhappy. Patty, who was raised in a
typical Chinese American home, one that stressed education and doing things in
a proper manner, decided that in order to help her daughters grow up not
fearful she had to face her fears head-on and began to blog about them,
learning she was far from the only woman---especially among mothers---with
these fears. Deciding that she would
like to be more fearless, Patty embarked on a journey to try new things and
conquer her fears. As she makes her
journey, some things don’t go quite right (she breaks foot while boogie
boarding) but she makes some happy discoveries (after decluttering her office,
she remembers why she fell in love with her house) and she sees changes in her
daughters are they too clear out some of the favorite toys they have outgrown,
make room for a new piece of furniture in the bedroom and go back into the
ocean after being roughly tossed and tumbled about.
Almost everyone will recognize a bit of themselves in Patty,
even if it is just being so busy that we have lost sight of the simpler
pleasures in life. Patty is indeed
fearless in the telling of the story, seeing herself and her reaction to things
with good humor, but also reflecting upon her past to try and learn more about
her fears, how she learned to be afraid, enabling her to move forward with a
more joyous life.
Peach Pies and Alibis: A Charmed Pie Shoppe Mystery
Author:
Ellery Adams
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest book in this series. The main character, Ella Mae, is coming into her special powers and she must use them to try and stop a killer on the loose. This book has a lot of sub-story build up for future books in this series. Pie recipes are included.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest book in this series. The main character, Ella Mae, is coming into her special powers and she must use them to try and stop a killer on the loose. This book has a lot of sub-story build up for future books in this series. Pie recipes are included.
Demon Ex Machina: Tales of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom
Author:
Julie Kenner
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The 5th book in this series has the Soccer-Mom demon hunter dealing with her husband and daughter's attempts at "helping" her defeat demons. Meanwhile, her son is going through the terrible two's. A past secret regarding her first husband comes to light and a battle is put forth. Can our Soccer-Mom overcome evil while teaching self-defense classes? Read and find out. Fun, summer read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The 5th book in this series has the Soccer-Mom demon hunter dealing with her husband and daughter's attempts at "helping" her defeat demons. Meanwhile, her son is going through the terrible two's. A past secret regarding her first husband comes to light and a battle is put forth. Can our Soccer-Mom overcome evil while teaching self-defense classes? Read and find out. Fun, summer read.
Deja Demon: The Days and Nights of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom
Author:
Julie Kenner
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I thought I finished this series but I was wrong. This is book #4 in this series and the Soccer Mom is having problems juggling her "normal marriage," her protege Daughter, her once dead 1st husband returned, preparing for the big town-wide Easter Egg Hunt and her on-the-side job of killing demons. Hiding her other nature from her current husband takes a toll. Can she save the world and her marriage? Read and find out. Fun, summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I thought I finished this series but I was wrong. This is book #4 in this series and the Soccer Mom is having problems juggling her "normal marriage," her protege Daughter, her once dead 1st husband returned, preparing for the big town-wide Easter Egg Hunt and her on-the-side job of killing demons. Hiding her other nature from her current husband takes a toll. Can she save the world and her marriage? Read and find out. Fun, summer read.
The Shining Girls
Author:
Lauren Beukes
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
This book was listed as one of the top, 2013 summer, sci-fi reads. It was a rough one for me to read but I stuck it out. It had the feel of The Time Traveler's Wife and Being John Malkovich, but without the empathy & love of one and the comedy of the other. The book is about a time traveling serial killer that sees a "shining girl" in one time and has to kill her in another. The shine he sees indicates that she will be one of his. One of his victims survives to fight the fight against him. The book was difficult for me to read since each chapter is about a different character and/or a different time and felt disjointed. I didn't think the ending was worth the build up either. Not what I expected and was disappointed.
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
This book was listed as one of the top, 2013 summer, sci-fi reads. It was a rough one for me to read but I stuck it out. It had the feel of The Time Traveler's Wife and Being John Malkovich, but without the empathy & love of one and the comedy of the other. The book is about a time traveling serial killer that sees a "shining girl" in one time and has to kill her in another. The shine he sees indicates that she will be one of his. One of his victims survives to fight the fight against him. The book was difficult for me to read since each chapter is about a different character and/or a different time and felt disjointed. I didn't think the ending was worth the build up either. Not what I expected and was disappointed.
Bad Monkey
Author:
Carl Hiaasen
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
The latest adult read from Hiaasen. Love his campy, dry humor. This book has the main character trying to reestablish his career by solving a murder that may not really have happened. The bad monkey is a story in and of itself. A great summer read!
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
The latest adult read from Hiaasen. Love his campy, dry humor. This book has the main character trying to reestablish his career by solving a murder that may not really have happened. The bad monkey is a story in and of itself. A great summer read!
Thursday, August 8, 2013
The Impossible Lives of Greta Wells
Author:
Andrew Sean Greer
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
Imagine having 3 alternate lives through which you rotate, spending a few days at a time in each one. One is in the present, another in 1918, and the last in 1941. You are the same age in each one, you live in the same place, and the same people to whom you are closest are in your other lives as well. But what is going on in each life is different from the others, due to circumstances and events and social mores of the times. Greta Wells experiences this alternate-life travel (different from time travel) for three months of her life.
Like time travel books, this concept can make your head spin, but in a good way. This book is quite enjoyable, and I plan to read it again in order to better get my head around some of the happenings. I'm looking forward to that.
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
Imagine having 3 alternate lives through which you rotate, spending a few days at a time in each one. One is in the present, another in 1918, and the last in 1941. You are the same age in each one, you live in the same place, and the same people to whom you are closest are in your other lives as well. But what is going on in each life is different from the others, due to circumstances and events and social mores of the times. Greta Wells experiences this alternate-life travel (different from time travel) for three months of her life.
Like time travel books, this concept can make your head spin, but in a good way. This book is quite enjoyable, and I plan to read it again in order to better get my head around some of the happenings. I'm looking forward to that.
Mourning Gloria
Author:
Susan Wittig Albert
Stars: 4
Review by: mystery lover
Good book. Side story about herbs is interesting but not what I expected.
Stars: 4
Review by: mystery lover
Good book. Side story about herbs is interesting but not what I expected.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
The Poacher's Son
Author:
Paul Doiron
Stars: 4
Review by: books&beads
I really enjoyed this one. It was interesting to read a mystery inside the perspective of a game warden set in Maine. Well written and some twists I didn't see coming.
Stars: 4
Review by: books&beads
I really enjoyed this one. It was interesting to read a mystery inside the perspective of a game warden set in Maine. Well written and some twists I didn't see coming.
Friday, August 2, 2013
One Heart To Win
Author:
Johanna Lindsey
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Johanna Lindsey is as good today as she was 20 years ago. So many authors I feel lose their writing that pulls the reader into their books.
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Johanna Lindsey is as good today as she was 20 years ago. So many authors I feel lose their writing that pulls the reader into their books.
The Murderer's Daughters
Author:
Randy Susan Meyers
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Excellent read. First book by this author.
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Excellent read. First book by this author.
Victoria's Secret Gardens of Love
Author:
Victoria's Secret
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Lovely stories, poetry, artwork, part of the collection. Most of the collection has scented pages. Very pretty books in slipcases to keep forever.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Lovely stories, poetry, artwork, part of the collection. Most of the collection has scented pages. Very pretty books in slipcases to keep forever.
Victoria's Secret Images of Love
Author:
Victoria's Secret
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Beautiful short stories, prose, poetry, lovely artwork.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Beautiful short stories, prose, poetry, lovely artwork.
Victoria's Secret Beauty of Love
Author:
Victoria's Secret
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Very romantic, poetry, short stories, lovely artwork.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Very romantic, poetry, short stories, lovely artwork.
Victoria's Words of Love
Author: Victoria's Secret
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Short stories and poetry. Lovely artwork. Part of a collection.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Short stories and poetry. Lovely artwork. Part of a collection.
Bridal Bouquet
Author:
Sheila Pickles
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Another book featuring verse and prose, also scented. Lovely to read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Another book featuring verse and prose, also scented. Lovely to read.
The Language of Flowers: Penhaligon's Scented Treasury of Verse and Prose
Author:
Sheila Pickles
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Reader must like verse and prose. Lovely artwork. The book is scented with a pleasant fragrance.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Reader must like verse and prose. Lovely artwork. The book is scented with a pleasant fragrance.
Akiane: Her Life, Her Art, Her Poetry
Author:
Akiane Kramarik & Foreli Kramarik
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
If you like art, this amazing young girl has painted pictures that will amaze you. Very talented. Lots of pictures in this book of her incredible work.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
If you like art, this amazing young girl has painted pictures that will amaze you. Very talented. Lots of pictures in this book of her incredible work.
400 Soups
Author:
Anne Sheasby
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Many new and unusual soup recipes to try. From many countries.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Many new and unusual soup recipes to try. From many countries.
400 Sauces: Dips, Dressings, Salsas, Jams, Jellies & Pickles
Author:
Catherine Atkinson, Christine Frances, & Maggie Mayhew
Stars: 4
Review by: Woman on the Go
Many tried and true sauces for all kinds of food, a few new ones I am going to try.
Stars: 4
Review by: Woman on the Go
Many tried and true sauces for all kinds of food, a few new ones I am going to try.
Low Fat & Salads
Author:
Supere Cookery
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Many really great and interesting salads. Lots of ideas.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Many really great and interesting salads. Lots of ideas.
The Queen's Vow
Author:
C.B. Gortner
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A fictional account of Isabella of Castille's life to 1492.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A fictional account of Isabella of Castille's life to 1492.
Reflected In You
Author:
Sylvia Day
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
This is the second book in the Crossfire series and it was even better then the first.
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
This is the second book in the Crossfire series and it was even better then the first.
Sisterland
Author:
Curtis Sittenfeld
Stars: 2
Review by: Happygirl
"Excessively eventful, but without real meaning." That's a quote from this book that sort of describes the book.
Stars: 2
Review by: Happygirl
"Excessively eventful, but without real meaning." That's a quote from this book that sort of describes the book.
The Secrets of Shakespeare's Grave
Author:
Deron R. Hicks
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
An adorable cozy mystery for 8-12 year olds. I bought this book for my grandchildren but got caught up in the mystery myself. Clues, family, love and honor, integrity, humor...kids will love it and I did too!
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
An adorable cozy mystery for 8-12 year olds. I bought this book for my grandchildren but got caught up in the mystery myself. Clues, family, love and honor, integrity, humor...kids will love it and I did too!
Inferno
Author:
Dan Brown
Stars: 2
Review by: P.Reads
I was disappointed in this Dan Brown book. I have read many of his others and loved them.
Stars: 2
Review by: P.Reads
I was disappointed in this Dan Brown book. I have read many of his others and loved them.
Stories I Only Tell My Friends
Author:
Rob Lowe
Stars: 3
Review by: Lrizza
I enjoyed hearing about the filming of The Outsiders, one of my favorite movies. It seemed like he glossed over the hurdles in his life. I believe that much of the work Rob Lowe got was based on luck and who he knew, more so than talent.
Stars: 3
Review by: Lrizza
I enjoyed hearing about the filming of The Outsiders, one of my favorite movies. It seemed like he glossed over the hurdles in his life. I believe that much of the work Rob Lowe got was based on luck and who he knew, more so than talent.
Dancing Dogs
Author:
Jon Katz
Stars: 2.5
Review by: syd
Eclectic collection of dog short stories--some were very good and others I absolutely didn't like.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: syd
Eclectic collection of dog short stories--some were very good and others I absolutely didn't like.
Redemption Mountain
Author:
Gerry FitzGerald
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
A very vivid portrait of a mining town in West Virginia. Believable characters and situations and no pat answers.
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
A very vivid portrait of a mining town in West Virginia. Believable characters and situations and no pat answers.
The One Good Thing
Author:
Kevin Alan Milne
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
If you liked the movie Pay It Forward, you will like this book. The protagonist is a devoted husband and father, who performs at least six acts of kindness every day. But there are elements of his past that his family does not know about, although they eventually find out the hard way. It's very well written and has clever twists you won't expect.
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
If you liked the movie Pay It Forward, you will like this book. The protagonist is a devoted husband and father, who performs at least six acts of kindness every day. But there are elements of his past that his family does not know about, although they eventually find out the hard way. It's very well written and has clever twists you won't expect.
The Interestings
Author:
Meg Wolitzer
Stars: 4
Review by: Marybeth
I really enjoyed Meg Wolitzer's novel about a group of young teenagers who meet at an art camp in the seventies. The story follows 6 of them as their lives intertwine or drift apart as they age into their 50's. I respect the author's choice to make all the characters and particularly the main character, Jules, flawed, but very human. I do have to add that the first half of the book was written in a tighter, more engrossing fashion with the second half being not as cohesive. Overall, though, a very enjoyable, well written book with a compelling story.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marybeth
I really enjoyed Meg Wolitzer's novel about a group of young teenagers who meet at an art camp in the seventies. The story follows 6 of them as their lives intertwine or drift apart as they age into their 50's. I respect the author's choice to make all the characters and particularly the main character, Jules, flawed, but very human. I do have to add that the first half of the book was written in a tighter, more engrossing fashion with the second half being not as cohesive. Overall, though, a very enjoyable, well written book with a compelling story.
The Fourth Hand
Author:
John Irving
Stars: 3
Review by: Marybeth
Irving's The Fourth Hand tells the story of an anchor man who loses a hand when it is bitten off by a lion and the ultimate way that this event changes him. It is quintessential Irving in that the story is somewhat bizarre, at times raunchy, humorous, but always interesting. I only gave the book a 3 (I enjoyed it) rating because it is not one of Irving's best, I would recommend it if you are a fan. If not, then always start with The World According to Garp.
Stars: 3
Review by: Marybeth
Irving's The Fourth Hand tells the story of an anchor man who loses a hand when it is bitten off by a lion and the ultimate way that this event changes him. It is quintessential Irving in that the story is somewhat bizarre, at times raunchy, humorous, but always interesting. I only gave the book a 3 (I enjoyed it) rating because it is not one of Irving's best, I would recommend it if you are a fan. If not, then always start with The World According to Garp.
Thursday, August 1, 2013
Red Dust Road
Author:
Jackie Kay
Stars: 5
Review by: KM
This autobiography left an indelible mark on me. Takes the reader through Scotland and Nigeria in a lyrical, fascinating way as the author seeks out her birth parents. I liked having my American perspective shifted by seeing issues like race and culture through the eyes of someone from another country. Also, the juxtaposition of two very different climes and cultures was intriguing. Her writing style along with her quest kept me enthralled as if I were reading a mystery novel. Lastly, it has a lot of heart.
Stars: 5
Review by: KM
This autobiography left an indelible mark on me. Takes the reader through Scotland and Nigeria in a lyrical, fascinating way as the author seeks out her birth parents. I liked having my American perspective shifted by seeing issues like race and culture through the eyes of someone from another country. Also, the juxtaposition of two very different climes and cultures was intriguing. Her writing style along with her quest kept me enthralled as if I were reading a mystery novel. Lastly, it has a lot of heart.
Animal, Vegetable, Miracle
Author:
Barbara Kingsolver
Stars: 5
Review by:Smudge
Full of information that will help us eat healthier foods while leaving a smaller footprint. I'm a convert!
Stars: 5
Review by:Smudge
Full of information that will help us eat healthier foods while leaving a smaller footprint. I'm a convert!
Defending Jacob
Author:
William Landay
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
Very intense! The book ends and you still have no idea what happened and who did it! Very suspenseful and an excellent read.
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
Very intense! The book ends and you still have no idea what happened and who did it! Very suspenseful and an excellent read.
Austenland
Author:
Shannon Hale
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A short, delightful read about a woman whose past relationships have all been doomed by her obsession to find her own "Mr. Darcy". This book will be released as a major motion picture in August starring Kerri Russell. I highly recommend this!
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A short, delightful read about a woman whose past relationships have all been doomed by her obsession to find her own "Mr. Darcy". This book will be released as a major motion picture in August starring Kerri Russell. I highly recommend this!
The Lies We Told
Author:
Diane Chamberlain
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Oldie, but goodie. I am going to look for more by this author.
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Oldie, but goodie. I am going to look for more by this author.
Here I Go Again
Author:
Jen Lancaster
Stars: 5
Review by: line82
Laugh out loud funny. Great snarky summer read.
Stars: 5
Review by: line82
Laugh out loud funny. Great snarky summer read.
Charlotte au Chocolat: Memories of a Restaurant Girlhood
Author:
Charlotte Silver
Stars: 2
Review by: KM
A biography. Distinctive, but there is a sadness or even melancholic nuance underpinning the writing. I was disappointed--expected something lighter, more fun. A great thing about being in the summer reading club is I felt I should finish it, (something to do with being school-age again and having a book report due!) So, I hung in there and at least discovered that the last few chapters are brighter and more interesting. I felt better for having completed it. Reading to the end made the experience of this book better for me, but still, I give it a 2.
Stars: 2
Review by: KM
A biography. Distinctive, but there is a sadness or even melancholic nuance underpinning the writing. I was disappointed--expected something lighter, more fun. A great thing about being in the summer reading club is I felt I should finish it, (something to do with being school-age again and having a book report due!) So, I hung in there and at least discovered that the last few chapters are brighter and more interesting. I felt better for having completed it. Reading to the end made the experience of this book better for me, but still, I give it a 2.
Bared to You
Author:
Sylvia Day
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
This book was very similar to Fifty Shades of Grey so anyone that enjoyed that trilogy will thoroughly enjoy the Crossfire books.
Stars: 5
Review by: PattiK
This book was very similar to Fifty Shades of Grey so anyone that enjoyed that trilogy will thoroughly enjoy the Crossfire books.
The Omnivore's Dilemma: The secrets Behind What You Eat
Author:
Michael Pollan
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A good, but sobering, look at how your food really goes from farm to table. A good read that will get you thinking.
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A good, but sobering, look at how your food really goes from farm to table. A good read that will get you thinking.
Holiday Buzz
Author:
Cleo Coyle
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A fun installment of the Coffeehouse Mystery series, with a second murder thrown into this one. A little refreshing to think about ice, snow, and winter during these hot summer months.
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A fun installment of the Coffeehouse Mystery series, with a second murder thrown into this one. A little refreshing to think about ice, snow, and winter during these hot summer months.
Night Terrors
Author:
Dennis Palumbo
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
The story line didn't grab me, but the style of writing did; so I finished it and was glad I did.
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
The story line didn't grab me, but the style of writing did; so I finished it and was glad I did.
Wife 22
Author:
Melanie Gideon
Stars: 4
Review by: Ann M
Alice Buckley felt her life was in a rut, her husband lost his job, she thought her daughter had an eating disorder, and she thought her son was gay. She gets an invite for an on-line survey about "Marriage in the 21st Century" and her interaction with Researcher 101 took a personal turn.
Stars: 4
Review by: Ann M
Alice Buckley felt her life was in a rut, her husband lost his job, she thought her daughter had an eating disorder, and she thought her son was gay. She gets an invite for an on-line survey about "Marriage in the 21st Century" and her interaction with Researcher 101 took a personal turn.
Literally, the Best Language Book Ever: Annoying Words and Abused Phrases You Should Never Use Again
Author:
Paul Yeager
Stars: 1
Review by: Miss Lucy
This book was "annoying!" Being an avid grammar geek, I had high hopes and expectations when I picked up this book. I even felt great satisfaction when the author's gripes matched my own pet peeves, such as using "google" as a verb, and saying "PIN number." I also cringe at most workplace lingo, such as "I have a two o'clock" and "crunch the numbers." I totally agree (a phrase he would hate, by the way) with his diatribe on height humor - "It's hard to imagine that the person wants to hear what you have to say about something he or she has been well aware of ever since first grade when the mocking started."
But after a while it seemed like almost everything people say annoys him. For example, he objects to "If it isn't broken, don't fix it," because it's only possible to fix something that is broken, therefore the phrase is illogical. Exactly - that's the point! He would rather we say, "If something is working in an acceptable manner, then we shouldn't waste our time trying to improve it." Or, how about his objection to "There's plenty of time left in the game," because it's usually used when the game is almost over. He suggests saying, "Despite the limited time left, the outcome of the game is not yet certain." Oh, please.
It was a struggle to get through this book, but, hey, I can count it toward my goal, so I persevered.
Stars: 1
Review by: Miss Lucy
This book was "annoying!" Being an avid grammar geek, I had high hopes and expectations when I picked up this book. I even felt great satisfaction when the author's gripes matched my own pet peeves, such as using "google" as a verb, and saying "PIN number." I also cringe at most workplace lingo, such as "I have a two o'clock" and "crunch the numbers." I totally agree (a phrase he would hate, by the way) with his diatribe on height humor - "It's hard to imagine that the person wants to hear what you have to say about something he or she has been well aware of ever since first grade when the mocking started."
But after a while it seemed like almost everything people say annoys him. For example, he objects to "If it isn't broken, don't fix it," because it's only possible to fix something that is broken, therefore the phrase is illogical. Exactly - that's the point! He would rather we say, "If something is working in an acceptable manner, then we shouldn't waste our time trying to improve it." Or, how about his objection to "There's plenty of time left in the game," because it's usually used when the game is almost over. He suggests saying, "Despite the limited time left, the outcome of the game is not yet certain." Oh, please.
It was a struggle to get through this book, but, hey, I can count it toward my goal, so I persevered.
Only Time Will Tell
Author:
Jeffrey Archer
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
A compelling plot with many unanswered questions. Very much looking forward to the second in the series.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Carol
A compelling plot with many unanswered questions. Very much looking forward to the second in the series.
The Last Romanov
Author:
Dora Levy Mossanen
Stars: 3
Review by: SCL
The Romanov story. We all know that, this "historical fiction" book should bring out a few details or offer some new imagining of what was happening within the family. Right? Wrong. Filled with extinct animals, magically growing plants, instant healing, seers, and more, it should have been in the fantasy category. However, that horrified fascination thing kicked in and I just had to keep reading. I did know the basic story, but I just had to know what "behind the scenes" magic this author could come up with. Be warned that I wouldn't count on it for any historical accuracy, but it is a good read if you can suspend reality a bit (or a lot).
Stars: 3
Review by: SCL
The Romanov story. We all know that, this "historical fiction" book should bring out a few details or offer some new imagining of what was happening within the family. Right? Wrong. Filled with extinct animals, magically growing plants, instant healing, seers, and more, it should have been in the fantasy category. However, that horrified fascination thing kicked in and I just had to keep reading. I did know the basic story, but I just had to know what "behind the scenes" magic this author could come up with. Be warned that I wouldn't count on it for any historical accuracy, but it is a good read if you can suspend reality a bit (or a lot).
The Body in the Ivy
Author:
Katherine Hall Page
Stars: 4
Review by: Jambob
This author has an entire series of mysteries whose titles begin with. The Body in the ....... This is the second one I read this summer and I intend to get more of her books. This mystery was constructed as an homage to Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None. A reunion of women who all went to college together on a remote island. The story was intriguing and I enjoyed all the clever references to the Christie mystery.
Stars: 4
Review by: Jambob
This author has an entire series of mysteries whose titles begin with. The Body in the ....... This is the second one I read this summer and I intend to get more of her books. This mystery was constructed as an homage to Agatha Christie's And Then There Were None. A reunion of women who all went to college together on a remote island. The story was intriguing and I enjoyed all the clever references to the Christie mystery.
The Gilly Salt Sisters
Author:
Tiffany Baker
Stars: 4
Review by: books&beads
I enjoyed the book very much. It has substance, but light enough for a summer read. Jo and Claire Gilly live on a salt farm. The townsfolk believe that the sisters are bewitched and so is their salt. Shifting alliances, secrets revealed, and tragedies, kept me reading to the end.
Stars: 4
Review by: books&beads
I enjoyed the book very much. It has substance, but light enough for a summer read. Jo and Claire Gilly live on a salt farm. The townsfolk believe that the sisters are bewitched and so is their salt. Shifting alliances, secrets revealed, and tragedies, kept me reading to the end.
The Lemon Orchard
Author:
Luanne Rice
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Excellent prospective on the Mexican problem in the Southwest. Fiction, but it really rings true.
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
Excellent prospective on the Mexican problem in the Southwest. Fiction, but it really rings true.
The Boys in the Boat
Author:
Daniel James Brown
Stars: 5
Review by: BKF
An uplifting story of nine boys, with focus on one particular boy, who first rowed together for the University of Washington and went on to compete in the 1936 Olympics. A wonderful book that encompasses history, Germany in the 30s, the Depression, the Dust Bowl, the art of rowing and boat building, but most of all... the human spirit.
Stars: 5
Review by: BKF
An uplifting story of nine boys, with focus on one particular boy, who first rowed together for the University of Washington and went on to compete in the 1936 Olympics. A wonderful book that encompasses history, Germany in the 30s, the Depression, the Dust Bowl, the art of rowing and boat building, but most of all... the human spirit.
The Dinner
Author: Herman Koch
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
Very, very disturbing! But I had to read to the end.
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
Very, very disturbing! But I had to read to the end.
The Golem and the Jinni
Author:
Helene Wecker
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
I'm not sure whether to class this as a fantasy, a romance, or historical fiction -- it's best considered a combination of all three. A golem and a djinn end up in 1890's NYC, and attempt to get on with their lives. A quiet book, written in a slow, deliberate style.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
I'm not sure whether to class this as a fantasy, a romance, or historical fiction -- it's best considered a combination of all three. A golem and a djinn end up in 1890's NYC, and attempt to get on with their lives. A quiet book, written in a slow, deliberate style.
A Study in Sherlock
Author:
Laurie R. King & Leslie S. Klinger, eds.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Wonderful collection of stories inspired by Conan Doyle. Not a single clunker in the lot!
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Wonderful collection of stories inspired by Conan Doyle. Not a single clunker in the lot!
The Kalahari Typing School for Men
Author:
Alexander McCall Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Book 4 in the series, No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. By now the characters are old friends.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Book 4 in the series, No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. By now the characters are old friends.
Morality for Beautiful Girls
Author:
Alexander McCall Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
#3 in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. I really need to go to Botswana. Who would have thought?
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
#3 in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. I really need to go to Botswana. Who would have thought?
Tears of the Giraffe
Author:
Alexander McCall Smith
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
#2 in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, which I'm enjoying on audiobook.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
#2 in the No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series, which I'm enjoying on audiobook.