Author: Emily Giffin
Stars: 3
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: England
The sequel to Something Borrowed. This follows the story of Darcy, who readers met in the first book. It picks up where the last book left off and fills in some details on Darcy's life. Readers get the chance to really learn about Darcy and see her grow as a woman and character. I enjoyed this one more than the first one. And as with the first book, it asks what people will truly do when it comes to true love and what friendship can withstand.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Something Borrowed
Author: Emily Giffin
Stars: 3
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: NY
A book about 2 best friends and what happens when one falls for the others fiancee. The movie starring Kate Hudson came out a couple months ago and didn't get very good reviews (even though I've never seen the movie). However, I read a synopsis about the movie that perfectly fits the book: it asks the question of how far people are willing to go for true love, and what constitutes right and wrong when it really comes to true love. I enjoyed the book, and found it interesting to try to put myself in both women's positions. For any woman who has a best friend and/or true love, you can relate in some way to the characters. A quick, easy, good read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: NY
A book about 2 best friends and what happens when one falls for the others fiancee. The movie starring Kate Hudson came out a couple months ago and didn't get very good reviews (even though I've never seen the movie). However, I read a synopsis about the movie that perfectly fits the book: it asks the question of how far people are willing to go for true love, and what constitutes right and wrong when it really comes to true love. I enjoyed the book, and found it interesting to try to put myself in both women's positions. For any woman who has a best friend and/or true love, you can relate in some way to the characters. A quick, easy, good read.
A Little Bit Wicked: Life, Love, and Faith in Stages
Author: Kristin Chenoweth
Stars: 3
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: Oklahoma & NYC
A great read for any Kristin Chenoweth fan! She lets her fans into her life from her humble beginnings in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma all the way to her rise to fame on Broadway in New York. She covers all topics: her adoption, college, acting, singing, family, faith, friends, and love. She writes just as she speaks, and it reads as if she is sitting in front of you just telling you the story. A quick read, with funny and touching moments throughout.
Stars: 3
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: Oklahoma & NYC
A great read for any Kristin Chenoweth fan! She lets her fans into her life from her humble beginnings in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma all the way to her rise to fame on Broadway in New York. She covers all topics: her adoption, college, acting, singing, family, faith, friends, and love. She writes just as she speaks, and it reads as if she is sitting in front of you just telling you the story. A quick read, with funny and touching moments throughout.
Sh*t My Dad Says
Author: Justin Halpern
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: CA
ABSOLUTELY HYSTERICAL!!! I read this book in a few hours because I could not put it down. The author puts together a book about quotes and stories from his life involving his father. Justin (the author) moves back in with his parents at age 28 after being dumped by his girlfriend, and starts posting quotes his father says on Twitter. His friends, who have always thought his father was funny and quirky, encourage this idea and soon he has over a million followers. This leads to a book deal, and Justin writes this book based on the stuff his dad says. Each "chapter" is a hilarious story from his life with his dad and in between are quotes from his father on various subjects, starting from when he was around 4 and leading all the way to present day. I could not stop laughing out loud on every single page of this book. I annoyed anyone who was in the room with me while I was reading this. I was texting people quotes, reading them out loud to anyone who would listen, and have passed it off to several family members now. For anyone who wants a quick, easy read, and loves to laugh hysterically this book is for you!
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm237
Destination: CA
ABSOLUTELY HYSTERICAL!!! I read this book in a few hours because I could not put it down. The author puts together a book about quotes and stories from his life involving his father. Justin (the author) moves back in with his parents at age 28 after being dumped by his girlfriend, and starts posting quotes his father says on Twitter. His friends, who have always thought his father was funny and quirky, encourage this idea and soon he has over a million followers. This leads to a book deal, and Justin writes this book based on the stuff his dad says. Each "chapter" is a hilarious story from his life with his dad and in between are quotes from his father on various subjects, starting from when he was around 4 and leading all the way to present day. I could not stop laughing out loud on every single page of this book. I annoyed anyone who was in the room with me while I was reading this. I was texting people quotes, reading them out loud to anyone who would listen, and have passed it off to several family members now. For anyone who wants a quick, easy read, and loves to laugh hysterically this book is for you!
Sprinkle With Murder - A Cupcake Bakery Mystery
Author: Jen McKinlay
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Arizona
This is the 1st book in this series. In the standard for these types of mysteries there is a cupcake baker turned sleuth who is suspected of murder. Family dynamics makes it a fun, easy summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Arizona
This is the 1st book in this series. In the standard for these types of mysteries there is a cupcake baker turned sleuth who is suspected of murder. Family dynamics makes it a fun, easy summer read.
Smokin' Seventeen - A Stephanie Plum Novel
Author: Janet Evanovich
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Trenton, NJ
The continuing saga of Stephanie Plum, her wacky family & friends. More sexual than her other Plum novel. Very funny, easy read. Leaves you hanging for Explosive Eighteen coming out in Nov '11.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Trenton, NJ
The continuing saga of Stephanie Plum, her wacky family & friends. More sexual than her other Plum novel. Very funny, easy read. Leaves you hanging for Explosive Eighteen coming out in Nov '11.
Cleo: The cat who mended a family
Author: Helen Brown
Stars: 5
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: Australia
Stars: 5
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: Australia
The Paris Wife
Author: Paula McLain
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: Paris, France
Hadley Richardson was the first wife of Ernest Hemingway, and this book is written from her point of view. The setting is the 1920s when the young Hemingways moved from the Midwest to Paris, where Ernest, a promising writer, would join the community of artists and writers creating new and exciting works. Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald are just a few of those. Historical fiction based on fact, it is a story of the effect on their marriage of the pressures of this life. It also offers insight on the day-to-day life and work of one of our eminent authors.
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: Paris, France
Hadley Richardson was the first wife of Ernest Hemingway, and this book is written from her point of view. The setting is the 1920s when the young Hemingways moved from the Midwest to Paris, where Ernest, a promising writer, would join the community of artists and writers creating new and exciting works. Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald are just a few of those. Historical fiction based on fact, it is a story of the effect on their marriage of the pressures of this life. It also offers insight on the day-to-day life and work of one of our eminent authors.
And the Pursuit of Happiness
Author: Maira Kalman
Stars: 5
Review by: P Kerr
Destination: US
Wonderful graphic novel that provides a unique, fun and hopeful look at US history. Also has some facts that I bet you never knew. Definitely worth a look/read. On a side note, Maira Kalman, the author/illustrator of this book was the illustrator for White & Strunk's The Elements of Style.
Stars: 5
Review by: P Kerr
Destination: US
Wonderful graphic novel that provides a unique, fun and hopeful look at US history. Also has some facts that I bet you never knew. Definitely worth a look/read. On a side note, Maira Kalman, the author/illustrator of this book was the illustrator for White & Strunk's The Elements of Style.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Beatrice and Virgil
Author: Yann Martel
Stars: 3
Review by: Dawnr
Destination: Northeast USA
The book is filled with symbolism and wordy imagery.The story goes back and forth from a writer and a taxidermist-would-be-writer discussing his play that he is writing,and the fantasy of the play itself about 2 talking animals.The dialogue in the book moves the story along to a thought-provoking twist ending.
Stars: 3
Review by: Dawnr
Destination: Northeast USA
The book is filled with symbolism and wordy imagery.The story goes back and forth from a writer and a taxidermist-would-be-writer discussing his play that he is writing,and the fantasy of the play itself about 2 talking animals.The dialogue in the book moves the story along to a thought-provoking twist ending.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Beginner's Guide to Canadian Honours
Author: Christopher McCreary
Stars: 5
Review by: Taffrail
Destination: Canada
An easy guide to follow and a good introduction to Canadian honours; when to wear medals and a ribbon chart is included.
Stars: 5
Review by: Taffrail
Destination: Canada
An easy guide to follow and a good introduction to Canadian honours; when to wear medals and a ribbon chart is included.
The Weird Sisters - A Novel
Author: Eleanor Brown
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Ohio
This is not my usual read but it seemed interesting enough from the JJ blog. Being the middle sister, between a sister and a brother, I thought this should be kind of funny. It was like reading about 3 people's miserable life. Too much drama and too much reality for my tastes. The fiction part lies in the shiny, happy ending where everything turns out peaches and cream. Not my thing.
Stars: 1
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Ohio
This is not my usual read but it seemed interesting enough from the JJ blog. Being the middle sister, between a sister and a brother, I thought this should be kind of funny. It was like reading about 3 people's miserable life. Too much drama and too much reality for my tastes. The fiction part lies in the shiny, happy ending where everything turns out peaches and cream. Not my thing.
Gone
Author: Mo Hayder
Stars: 2
Review by: BigDa
Destination: England
I made a decision to stick with it.
Stars: 2
Review by: BigDa
Destination: England
I made a decision to stick with it.
All Creatures Great and Small
Author: James Herriot
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Destination: England
A fantastic read! Rich, flowing prose and lyrical descriptions transport the reader to a simpler time. A "must read" for animal lovers!
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Destination: England
A fantastic read! Rich, flowing prose and lyrical descriptions transport the reader to a simpler time. A "must read" for animal lovers!
The Last Child
Author: John Hart
Stars: 5
Review by: LP
Destination: US
Could not put the book down. Outstanding!
Stars: 5
Review by: LP
Destination: US
Could not put the book down. Outstanding!
Save Me
Author: Lisa Scottoline
Stars: 3
Review by: cocoran
Destination: Philadelphia suburbs
Save Me is a novel to which most mothers can relate. What would you do if you had only a split second to decide between saving your child or someone else's child when you were entrusted with the responsibility for that child? This is the first time that I have read a Lisa Scottoline novel, and, knowing that she has a Law Degree, I expected a dry, courtroom drama. Not so. The conflict in this drama is heart wrenching and it takes many twists and turns.
There is some character development throughout the story, but it does take unrealistic turns toward the end of the book. The writing is concise-if it isn't, I tend to skim when reading. However, I did not find myself doing that with this book. This is an easy beach read.
Stars: 3
Review by: cocoran
Destination: Philadelphia suburbs
Save Me is a novel to which most mothers can relate. What would you do if you had only a split second to decide between saving your child or someone else's child when you were entrusted with the responsibility for that child? This is the first time that I have read a Lisa Scottoline novel, and, knowing that she has a Law Degree, I expected a dry, courtroom drama. Not so. The conflict in this drama is heart wrenching and it takes many twists and turns.
There is some character development throughout the story, but it does take unrealistic turns toward the end of the book. The writing is concise-if it isn't, I tend to skim when reading. However, I did not find myself doing that with this book. This is an easy beach read.
The Heiress
Author: Lynsay Sands
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: England
I was disappointed in this book because almost 1/2 was from the previous book in the series. Easy read period piece with humor and mild mystery. A simple summer read.
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: England
I was disappointed in this book because almost 1/2 was from the previous book in the series. Easy read period piece with humor and mild mystery. A simple summer read.
The Quantum Thief
Author: Hannu Rajaniemi
Stars: 4
Review by: Karen
Destination: Mars--out of this world.
Loved this book, but had forgotten how much work good SF can be.
Stars: 4
Review by: Karen
Destination: Mars--out of this world.
Loved this book, but had forgotten how much work good SF can be.
PopCo
Author: Scarlett Thomas
Stars: 2
Review by: BJS
Destination: UK
The idea of the book was very intriguing - a code breaking toy creator, her grandmother a mathematician and her grandfather a code breaker and crossword puzzle maker. Her father a treasure hunter.
But the promise fell flat and it was a chore to get through the book.
Stars: 2
Review by: BJS
Destination: UK
The idea of the book was very intriguing - a code breaking toy creator, her grandmother a mathematician and her grandfather a code breaker and crossword puzzle maker. Her father a treasure hunter.
But the promise fell flat and it was a chore to get through the book.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
What Alice Forgot - A Novel
Author: Liane Moriarty
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Australia
Read this book after reading your post and having a close relative with memory loss due to a fall. The story was tough to get started with the two other sub-stories intermingled. Once I got going I was hooked. This story is more about the ability to start over and find a median between what we think our past was like (rose glasses) and our current situation (not what we expected) than dealing with memory loss. The story reminds me to truly see what we need in life and simplify. At first I thought the ending was too easy and fast for the buildup but then once I thought about it, it was just right for the idea being posed.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Australia
Read this book after reading your post and having a close relative with memory loss due to a fall. The story was tough to get started with the two other sub-stories intermingled. Once I got going I was hooked. This story is more about the ability to start over and find a median between what we think our past was like (rose glasses) and our current situation (not what we expected) than dealing with memory loss. The story reminds me to truly see what we need in life and simplify. At first I thought the ending was too easy and fast for the buildup but then once I thought about it, it was just right for the idea being posed.
A Thomas Jefferson Education
Author: Oliver DeMille
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Destination: USA
A call to be a mentor to students, so that they learn to self-educate, rather than "teaching to the test." A book which definitely makes one stop and think.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Destination: USA
A call to be a mentor to students, so that they learn to self-educate, rather than "teaching to the test." A book which definitely makes one stop and think.
House Justice
Author: Mike Lawson
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Washington, D.C. & Anaheim, CA
Politics, spies, CIA,and anti-hero, Joe DeMarco
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Washington, D.C. & Anaheim, CA
Politics, spies, CIA,and anti-hero, Joe DeMarco
The Reading Promise
Author: Alice Ozma
Stars: 4
Review by: bookmom3
Destination: Philadelphia, PA
Very inspirational read!
Stars: 4
Review by: bookmom3
Destination: Philadelphia, PA
Very inspirational read!
The School of Essential Ingredients
Author: Erica Bauermeister
Stars: 3
Review by: P Kerr
Destination:
This would be an enjoyable book for someone who loves to cook. I'm not big on the culinary arts so had trouble getting into reading it.
Stars: 3
Review by: P Kerr
Destination:
This would be an enjoyable book for someone who loves to cook. I'm not big on the culinary arts so had trouble getting into reading it.
Double Shot
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
A real twist to this story by the demise of a main protagonist. Can't wait to see where the story leads from here. Fun mystery series with great recipes.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
A real twist to this story by the demise of a main protagonist. Can't wait to see where the story leads from here. Fun mystery series with great recipes.
Sticks & Scones
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
This series keeps adding mysteries to mysteries that the main character falls into. Kind of expected ending but a twist for extra flavor. Good summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
This series keeps adding mysteries to mysteries that the main character falls into. Kind of expected ending but a twist for extra flavor. Good summer read.
The House of the Scorpion
Author: Nancy Farmer
Stars: 5
Review by: Fernanda L.
Destination: Mexico
This story was very imaginative with lots going on. Easy to read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Fernanda L.
Destination: Mexico
This story was very imaginative with lots going on. Easy to read.
The One that I Want
Author: Allison Winn Scotch
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
Destination: "Westlake" (somewhere in the Pacific Northwest I think)
A story of a young woman who has stayed in her hometown, and discovers that maybe the ideal life that she loves isn't so ideal. The emotion in this book is so real and raw that it can be easy to relate and feel as if you are in her life! Hard to put down, although a bit on the sad side!
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
Destination: "Westlake" (somewhere in the Pacific Northwest I think)
A story of a young woman who has stayed in her hometown, and discovers that maybe the ideal life that she loves isn't so ideal. The emotion in this book is so real and raw that it can be easy to relate and feel as if you are in her life! Hard to put down, although a bit on the sad side!
Sanctuary
Author: Nora Roberts
Stars: 4
Review by: deckreader
Destination: Island off the coast of Georgia
Kept my interest throughout the book.
Stars: 4
Review by: deckreader
Destination: Island off the coast of Georgia
Kept my interest throughout the book.
Look Again
Author: Lisa Scottoline
Stars: 5
Review by: LP
Destination: US
Outstanding book! Could not put it down.
Stars: 5
Review by: LP
Destination: US
Outstanding book! Could not put it down.
Saving CeeCee Honeycutt
Author: Beth Hoffman
Stars: 4
Review by: ddlesmom
Destination: Georgia
If you like The Secret Life of Bees you'll like this book as well. Great beach read.
Stars: 4
Review by: ddlesmom
Destination: Georgia
If you like The Secret Life of Bees you'll like this book as well. Great beach read.
The Hunger Games
Author: Suzanne Collins
Stars: 5
Review by: scrappy3
Destination: Future North America: Panem
Fantastic-couldn't put it down! Can't wait to read book 2, Catching Fire!!
Stars: 5
Review by: scrappy3
Destination: Future North America: Panem
Fantastic-couldn't put it down! Can't wait to read book 2, Catching Fire!!
The Butterfly's Daughter
Author: Mary Alice Monroe
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
Destination: Texas & Mexico
This book deserves a rating of a 20!!!
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
Destination: Texas & Mexico
This book deserves a rating of a 20!!!
Worth Dying For
Author: Lee Child
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Nebraska--the endless plains
A good guy doing bad things to bad guys. Perverse satisfaction.
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Nebraska--the endless plains
A good guy doing bad things to bad guys. Perverse satisfaction.
Too Perfect
Author: Julie Ortolon
Stars: 3.5
Review by: provo
Destination: St. Bart's
Surprisingly good summer read.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: provo
Destination: St. Bart's
Surprisingly good summer read.
Elite Fighting Forces: from the Praetorian Guard to the Green Berets
Author: Editor: Jeremy Black
Stars: 4
Review by: Taffrail
Destination:
A very good overview of special forces throughout history and throughout the world.
Stars: 4
Review by: Taffrail
Destination:
A very good overview of special forces throughout history and throughout the world.
Tough Cookie (A Culinary Mystery)
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: CO
The main character is getting stronger and stronger as the series moves on. Still has laughs and good recipes while evolving nicely. Easy summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: CO
The main character is getting stronger and stronger as the series moves on. Still has laughs and good recipes while evolving nicely. Easy summer read.
The Last Lie
Author: Stephen White
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: CO
Slow moving until the last 6 chapters.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: CO
Slow moving until the last 6 chapters.
When the Emperor Was Divine
Author: Julie Otsuka
Stars: 3
Review by: pla
Destination: Japanese Internment camps--US
Very sad.
Stars: 3
Review by: pla
Destination: Japanese Internment camps--US
Very sad.
The Things That Keep Us Here
Author: Carla Buckley
Stars: 5
Review by: Miss Lucy
Destination: Ohio
This is a story of bird flu (avian influenza) spiraled out of control. The Things That Keep Us Here is a novel, but the disease is real. First time author Carla Buckley has really thought this through, and the dangers involved in living (or not) through a pandemic are very scary! Hard to put down!!!
Stars: 5
Review by: Miss Lucy
Destination: Ohio
This is a story of bird flu (avian influenza) spiraled out of control. The Things That Keep Us Here is a novel, but the disease is real. First time author Carla Buckley has really thought this through, and the dangers involved in living (or not) through a pandemic are very scary! Hard to put down!!!
What Alice Forgot
Author: Liane Moriarty
Stars: 5
Review by: the reader
Destination:
I think this book would make an excellent book club discussion book. I read about it in Oprah's magazine and it was an amazing read!
Stars: 5
Review by: the reader
Destination:
I think this book would make an excellent book club discussion book. I read about it in Oprah's magazine and it was an amazing read!
Dreams of Joy
Author: Lisa See
Stars: 3
Review by: acorn
Destination:
A follow-up of her last book. Not as good.
Stars: 3
Review by: acorn
Destination:
A follow-up of her last book. Not as good.
The Anniversary Man
Author: R.J. Ellory
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NYC
Serial killer mimicking murders that happened 2 decades earlier. Baffling.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NYC
Serial killer mimicking murders that happened 2 decades earlier. Baffling.
Whatever Happened to Pudding Pops
Author: Gael Fashingbauer Cooer & Brian Bellmont
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
Destination:
If you grew up in the 70's or the 80's, this book full of kitsch will bring back many memories!
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
Destination:
If you grew up in the 70's or the 80's, this book full of kitsch will bring back many memories!
Crashing Through
Author: Robert Kurson
Stars: 5
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: California
This was a real page turner. It's about a man who lost his eyesight when he was three and is offered sight at forty-three. Very inspirational.
Stars: 5
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: California
This was a real page turner. It's about a man who lost his eyesight when he was three and is offered sight at forty-three. Very inspirational.
One Summer
Author: David Baldacci
Stars: 5
Review by: the reader
Destination: SC
This is a great summer read about a family learning to love again. Some sad parts, but Baldacci did a great job with this one.
Stars: 5
Review by: the reader
Destination: SC
This is a great summer read about a family learning to love again. Some sad parts, but Baldacci did a great job with this one.
The Sandman: Endless Nights
Author: Neil Gaiman
Stars: 5
Review by: Elaine
Destination:
A Graphic Novel with very diverse and cool illustrations and themes that get you thinking.
Stars: 5
Review by: Elaine
Destination:
A Graphic Novel with very diverse and cool illustrations and themes that get you thinking.
Agatha Raisin & the Wizard of Evesham
Author: M.C. Beaton
Stars: 5
Review by: G.G. Bell
Destination: England
Good mystery.
Stars: 5
Review by: G.G. Bell
Destination: England
Good mystery.
The Jefferson Key
Author: Steve Berry
Stars: 2.5
Review by: JamBob
Destination: NC
This March I attended a Nancy Drew Convention in Charlottesville, Va....mystery based on The Hidden Window wherein Nancy visits Monticello so we group ( of 55 ND fans) did too. I became utterly fascinated by Thomas Jefferson. What a ingenious Founding Father. I bought several books that I will read and review, but this one is a thriller loosely based on a Jefferson cypher. He was intrigued by codes and developed a cypher wheel which you may have seen in The Da Vinci Code. This book's best points were those discussing history starting with the attempted assassination of Pres. Andrew Jackson and the other Presidents that followed. But then it devolves into an action packed thriller written at times like a movie script with scenes happening at the same time in different locations. Its a fun summer read that should have emphasized the story more than the action. I got the feeling that the author really wants one of his books to be made into a movie and is writing his novels in that format.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: JamBob
Destination: NC
This March I attended a Nancy Drew Convention in Charlottesville, Va....mystery based on The Hidden Window wherein Nancy visits Monticello so we group ( of 55 ND fans) did too. I became utterly fascinated by Thomas Jefferson. What a ingenious Founding Father. I bought several books that I will read and review, but this one is a thriller loosely based on a Jefferson cypher. He was intrigued by codes and developed a cypher wheel which you may have seen in The Da Vinci Code. This book's best points were those discussing history starting with the attempted assassination of Pres. Andrew Jackson and the other Presidents that followed. But then it devolves into an action packed thriller written at times like a movie script with scenes happening at the same time in different locations. Its a fun summer read that should have emphasized the story more than the action. I got the feeling that the author really wants one of his books to be made into a movie and is writing his novels in that format.
Walking the Witch (The Otherworld Series)
Author: Kelley Armstrong
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Oregon & Washington
This story features the character Savannah Levine and her first time out as an adult. It has a lot of mystery, sadness and growing pains. The ending is a twist and makes you want to read the next book coming out soon.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Oregon & Washington
This story features the character Savannah Levine and her first time out as an adult. It has a lot of mystery, sadness and growing pains. The ending is a twist and makes you want to read the next book coming out soon.
A Catered Halloween (A Mystery With Recipes)
Author: Isis Crawford
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: NY State
A fun Halloween murder mystery with ghosts, haunted houses, twist and turns. A fun read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: NY State
A fun Halloween murder mystery with ghosts, haunted houses, twist and turns. A fun read.
The Main Corpse - A Culinary Mystery
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
Another in book in this series but this time the main character is getting bolder and more confident in her investigating skills while still keeping the cooking and fun going. Good summer book to read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
Another in book in this series but this time the main character is getting bolder and more confident in her investigating skills while still keeping the cooking and fun going. Good summer book to read.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
New this Week…
Here are some new titles coming out this week. Check them out from the library and see where they take you…
The latest entry in the best-selling series that includes Sizzlin' Sixteen and Finger Lickin' Fifteen finds bounty hunter Stephanie Plum leaning on her network of friends and supporters, including Grandma Mazur and mentor Ranger, when an assignment brings more trouble than anticipated.
The U.S. release of an internationally best-selling title finds Swedish Detective Inspector Joona Linna investigating the murders of three family members, whose killing was witnessed by a fourth intended victim, a traumatized child whose shock Linna hopes to penetrate through a controversial hypnotism session.
Unable to retain her professional detachment when her mother is abducted while babysitting her 4-month-old daughter, Georgia Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Faith Mitchell teams up with Will Trent and Sara Linton in a case that reveals unsettling truths. By the best-selling author of Broken.
Presents the story of vivacious Cora Cash, whose early twentieth-century marriage to England's most eligible duke is overshadowed by his secretive nature and the traps and betrayals of London's social scene. A first novel.
When her dream job turns into a living nightmare, causing her to become the prime suspect in a murder investigation, art gallery manager Alice Humphrey must prove that she has been set up--a deadly mission that plunges her into a high-tech criminal conspiracy that is shockingly linked to her own family.
Friday, June 17, 2011
A Catered Valentine's Day (A Mystery with Recipes)
Author: Isis Crawford
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: NY
A funny murder mystery. The interaction between the sisters makes it fun to read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: NY
A funny murder mystery. The interaction between the sisters makes it fun to read.
Chopping Spree
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Colorado
Another fun read by this author. It adds more family dynamics to set it apart from others in the series.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Colorado
Another fun read by this author. It adds more family dynamics to set it apart from others in the series.
Murder on K Street
Author: Margaret Truman
Stars: 5
Review by: Donna S
Destination: US
Amazing murder mystery with something for everyone - murder, politics, a little romance and a great ending. The story revolves around a 30-year friendship of two men, starting in college and ending with murder. A quick read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Donna S
Destination: US
Amazing murder mystery with something for everyone - murder, politics, a little romance and a great ending. The story revolves around a 30-year friendship of two men, starting in college and ending with murder. A quick read.
Letter to My Daughter
Author: George Bishop
Stars: 4
Review by: NewRetireeReader
Destination: Louisiana
Elizabeth, a 15 yr old, storms out of the house. Her mother, Laura, writes a letter about her adolescence.
Stars: 4
Review by: NewRetireeReader
Destination: Louisiana
Elizabeth, a 15 yr old, storms out of the house. Her mother, Laura, writes a letter about her adolescence.
After the Fire
Author: Robin Gaby Fischer
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: New Jersey
Many of us remember back in January 2000 when an early morning fire at Seton Hall University raged through a freshman dorm taking the lives of three freshmen and leaving many others injured. This book is the story of the two most seriously burned by that fire, 18-year-old roommates who somehow survived the flames. This non-fiction account then follows their tedious and painful recovery at St. Barnabas Hospital in Newark and finally at the Kessler Institute in West Orange. Fischer's writing is lively and spellbinding. (Her coverage of the story for the Star Ledger was nominated for a Pulitzer prize.) The book is full of personal stories about the two young men, their families, the medical personnel, and all of those whose lives they touched over the period. It is a beautiful story of friendship, survival, and devotion. It's a compelling read and very hard to put down!
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: New Jersey
Many of us remember back in January 2000 when an early morning fire at Seton Hall University raged through a freshman dorm taking the lives of three freshmen and leaving many others injured. This book is the story of the two most seriously burned by that fire, 18-year-old roommates who somehow survived the flames. This non-fiction account then follows their tedious and painful recovery at St. Barnabas Hospital in Newark and finally at the Kessler Institute in West Orange. Fischer's writing is lively and spellbinding. (Her coverage of the story for the Star Ledger was nominated for a Pulitzer prize.) The book is full of personal stories about the two young men, their families, the medical personnel, and all of those whose lives they touched over the period. It is a beautiful story of friendship, survival, and devotion. It's a compelling read and very hard to put down!
Tolstoy & the Purple Chair: My Year of Magical Reading
Author: Nina Sankovitch
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
Destination: Connecticut
The memoir of a woman who made the decision to read one book a day for a year in order to return to life after grieving for her sister who died several years earlier from cancer.
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
Destination: Connecticut
The memoir of a woman who made the decision to read one book a day for a year in order to return to life after grieving for her sister who died several years earlier from cancer.
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Hell at the Breech
Author: Tom Franklin
Stars: 4
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: 1897 Alabama
I've never read a book like this before. It was historical, based on dark events of dark days. The people decided to govern their town and created a bloody massacre based on the Mitcham War.
Stars: 4
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: 1897 Alabama
I've never read a book like this before. It was historical, based on dark events of dark days. The people decided to govern their town and created a bloody massacre based on the Mitcham War.
Bad Blood
Author: John Sandford
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Minnesota
Read it a second time - but couldn't put it down.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Minnesota
Read it a second time - but couldn't put it down.
The Girl who Played with Fire
Author: Stieg Larsson
Stars: 5
Review by: L.Z.
Destination: Sweden
Could NOT put this down, and now I can't wait for the next one!
Stars: 5
Review by: L.Z.
Destination: Sweden
Could NOT put this down, and now I can't wait for the next one!
Cutting for Stone
Author: Abraham Verghese
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: Ethiopia
Twin boys are born and raised in an Ethiopian medical center and eventually pursue medical careers. Along the way, we see medicine as practiced in a third-world country, a political coup that overthrows the government, a culture that blends aspects of previous colonists, visiting religious groups, and modern influences with the native East Africans. It is also a love story. This is a big book, but a real page turner!
Stars: 5
Review by: Jelsey
Destination: Ethiopia
Twin boys are born and raised in an Ethiopian medical center and eventually pursue medical careers. Along the way, we see medicine as practiced in a third-world country, a political coup that overthrows the government, a culture that blends aspects of previous colonists, visiting religious groups, and modern influences with the native East Africans. It is also a love story. This is a big book, but a real page turner!
The Seventeen Traditions
Author: Ralph Nader
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
Destination: Connecticut
A compilation of recollections and life lessons learned from immigrant parents raising a family in a small Connecticut town. The saddest part about reading this book was realizing that this kind of upbringing, imbued with family values, tradition, and personal responsibility, is a thing of the past. And we are no better off for its loss.
Stars: 3
Review by: BKF
Destination: Connecticut
A compilation of recollections and life lessons learned from immigrant parents raising a family in a small Connecticut town. The saddest part about reading this book was realizing that this kind of upbringing, imbued with family values, tradition, and personal responsibility, is a thing of the past. And we are no better off for its loss.
In the Woods
Author: Tana French
Stars: 3
Review by: bookmom3
Destination: Ireland
I liked this book but felt a little bit let down with the ending. It just wasn't "tied up" enough for me.
Stars: 3
Review by: bookmom3
Destination: Ireland
I liked this book but felt a little bit let down with the ending. It just wasn't "tied up" enough for me.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Killer Pancake
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
Fun murder mystery with twists and turns around the cosmetics industry. Easy summer reading.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
Fun murder mystery with twists and turns around the cosmetics industry. Easy summer reading.
Hit List
Author: Laurell K. Hamilton
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Tacoma, WA
Old school Anita Blake story. Had a lot of build up, but was disappointed by the ending. Felt like an updated version of a previous story. It did have some twists so that it left you feeling like this could be the last book in the series or maybe not. Easy summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Tacoma, WA
Old school Anita Blake story. Had a lot of build up, but was disappointed by the ending. Felt like an updated version of a previous story. It did have some twists so that it left you feeling like this could be the last book in the series or maybe not. Easy summer read.
In the Garden of Beasts
Author: Erik Larson
Stars: 4
Review by: sc2011
Destination: Germany
It was interesting to read about Germany during the rise of Hitler's regime from the perspective of the American Ambassador.
Stars: 4
Review by: sc2011
Destination: Germany
It was interesting to read about Germany during the rise of Hitler's regime from the perspective of the American Ambassador.
The Land of Painted Caves
Author: Jean Auel
Stars: 3
Review by: sc2011
Destination: Europe
It was overall an interesting book, but it was a long read and some sections were a bit slow.
Stars: 3
Review by: sc2011
Destination: Europe
It was overall an interesting book, but it was a long read and some sections were a bit slow.
Silent Mercy
Author: Linda Fairstein
Stars: 4
Review by: deckreader
Destination: NYC
I truly doubt that the NYC Police and the District Attorney's Office put this much time and energy into all their investigations.
Stars: 4
Review by: deckreader
Destination: NYC
I truly doubt that the NYC Police and the District Attorney's Office put this much time and energy into all their investigations.
A Man Without A Country
Author: Kurt Vonnegut
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Indiana
A love story about America, told with acerbic wit and insight about our leaders.
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Indiana
A love story about America, told with acerbic wit and insight about our leaders.
Red on Red
Author: Edward Conlon
Stars: 2
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NYC
Verbose. Although billed as "good literature."
Stars: 2
Review by: BigDa
Destination: NYC
Verbose. Although billed as "good literature."
A Dog's Purpose
Author: W. Bruce Cameron
Stars: 5
Review by: Acorn
Destination:
I am not a dog lover but this book was different and very good.
Stars: 5
Review by: Acorn
Destination:
I am not a dog lover but this book was different and very good.
Night Road
Author: Kristin Hannah
Stars: 4
Review by: Acorn
Destination: Seattle
Listened to this book. It kept me engrossed.
Stars: 4
Review by: Acorn
Destination: Seattle
Listened to this book. It kept me engrossed.
Room
Author: Emma Donoghue
Stars: 4
Review by: Acorn
Destination: US
I hesitate to rate this book. The premise was disturbing. I listened to it but do not think I could have read it. The voices were so great on the disc. Would love to hear other opinions.
Stars: 4
Review by: Acorn
Destination: US
I hesitate to rate this book. The premise was disturbing. I listened to it but do not think I could have read it. The voices were so great on the disc. Would love to hear other opinions.
The Bee Balm Murders
Author: Cynthia Rigg
Stars: 4
Review by: mystery lover
Destination: Massachusetts
Really good book--did not know who did it until the end.
Stars: 4
Review by: mystery lover
Destination: Massachusetts
Really good book--did not know who did it until the end.
Clutches and Curses
Author: Dorothy Howell
Stars: 4
Review by: the reader
Destination: Las Vegas
This was a funny, delightful murder mystery!
Stars: 4
Review by: the reader
Destination: Las Vegas
This was a funny, delightful murder mystery!
Minding Ben
Author: Victoria Brown
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
Destination: NYC (& Trinidad)
A teenager comes to the US from Trinidad alone and gets a job as a nanny for an awful family! Very much like the Nanny Diaries except for the Trinidad background and immigrant status of the nanny. Very interesting!
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
Destination: NYC (& Trinidad)
A teenager comes to the US from Trinidad alone and gets a job as a nanny for an awful family! Very much like the Nanny Diaries except for the Trinidad background and immigrant status of the nanny. Very interesting!
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo
Author: Stieg Larsson
Stars: 5
Review by: RLS
Destination: Sweden
Great characters; lots of twists & turns. Can't wait to read Mr. Larsson's 2nd novel in this series.
Stars: 5
Review by: RLS
Destination: Sweden
Great characters; lots of twists & turns. Can't wait to read Mr. Larsson's 2nd novel in this series.
The Namesake
Author: Jhumpa Lahiri
Stars: 4
Review by: NewRetireeReader
Destination: Massachusetts & India
Wonderful book about the Gangulis from the arranged marriage, and the relationship that develops between Ashoke and Ashima, then the birth and lives of their children, Gogal (Nikhil) and Sonia. It's interesting the learn about the Bengali culture.
Stars: 4
Review by: NewRetireeReader
Destination: Massachusetts & India
Wonderful book about the Gangulis from the arranged marriage, and the relationship that develops between Ashoke and Ashima, then the birth and lives of their children, Gogal (Nikhil) and Sonia. It's interesting the learn about the Bengali culture.
The Sisters Brothers
Author: Patrick DeWitt
Stars: 4
Review by: Fernanda L.
Destination: CA and OR
A quick, easy read. The story is a cowboy western with several humorous events thrown in.
Stars: 4
Review by: Fernanda L.
Destination: CA and OR
A quick, easy read. The story is a cowboy western with several humorous events thrown in.
Eternal on the Water
Author: Joseph Monninger
Stars: 5
Review by: P Kerr
Destination:
Wonderful, thought-provoking story. Really touched me for many reason.
Stars: 5
Review by: P Kerr
Destination:
Wonderful, thought-provoking story. Really touched me for many reason.
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter
Author: Tom Franklin
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Mississippi
Review: Captures the flavor of a small, backward town and its tensions between blacks and whites.
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Mississippi
Review: Captures the flavor of a small, backward town and its tensions between blacks and whites.
Lye in Wait
Author: Cricket McRae
Stars: 3
Review by: the reader
Destination:
Review: A light enjoyable mystery!
Stars: 3
Review by: the reader
Destination:
Review: A light enjoyable mystery!
Dirty Rotten Tendrils - A Flower Ship Mystery
Author: Kate Collins
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Indiana
Review: Next to most recent book in series, its a funny, light read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Indiana
Review: Next to most recent book in series, its a funny, light read.
The Cereal Murders (A Culinary Mystery)
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
Review: This is the 3rd book in this series and has some of the typical twists and turns of this genre. There are some special twists that makes this book interesting. A good, light, summer read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Destination: Denver, CO
Review: This is the 3rd book in this series and has some of the typical twists and turns of this genre. There are some special twists that makes this book interesting. A good, light, summer read.
Faith
Author: Jennifer Haigh
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Boston
Review: Although written by a woman, this book gives an accurate insight into the spiritual and emotional life of a priest.
Stars: 5
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Boston
Review: Although written by a woman, this book gives an accurate insight into the spiritual and emotional life of a priest.
The Whisperers
Author: John Connelly
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Maine
Review: Stick with it and questions will be answered.
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Destination: Maine
Review: Stick with it and questions will be answered.
Crooked Letter, Crooked Letter
Author: Tom Franklin
Stars: 4
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: Mississippi
Review: Great read,couldn't put it down. Very suspenseful.
Stars: 4
Review by: Judyangel
Destination: Mississippi
Review: Great read,couldn't put it down. Very suspenseful.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
another note about destinations
If your book takes place in more than one location, please choose the one you feel best represents the book. Thanks!
The Forgotten Garden
Author: Kate Morton
Stars: 3
Review by: Lisa McD
Destination: England
Review: I'd really liked the first book I'd read by Kate Morton (The House at Riverton), so I'd hoped this one would be as good. Not quite. The mystery was still compelling, but the dense atmospheric prose and repetitive flashbacks made for a very slow read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Lisa McD
Destination: England
Review: I'd really liked the first book I'd read by Kate Morton (The House at Riverton), so I'd hoped this one would be as good. Not quite. The mystery was still compelling, but the dense atmospheric prose and repetitive flashbacks made for a very slow read.
The Red Tent
Author: Anita Diamant
Stars: 3
Review by: ddlesmom
Destination: ancient Canaan, probably today's Palestine
Review: The Red Tent is a first-person narrative which tells the story of Dinah, daughter of Jacob and sister of Joseph, a talented midwife and proto-feminist. She is a minor character in the Bible, but the author has broadened her story. The book's title refers to the tent in which women of Jacob's tribe must, according to the ancient law, take refuge while menstruating or giving birth, and in which they find mutual support and encouragement from their mothers, sisters and aunts.
Stars: 3
Review by: ddlesmom
Destination: ancient Canaan, probably today's Palestine
Review: The Red Tent is a first-person narrative which tells the story of Dinah, daughter of Jacob and sister of Joseph, a talented midwife and proto-feminist. She is a minor character in the Bible, but the author has broadened her story. The book's title refers to the tent in which women of Jacob's tribe must, according to the ancient law, take refuge while menstruating or giving birth, and in which they find mutual support and encouragement from their mothers, sisters and aunts.
The Girl Who Played with Fire
Author: Stieg Larsson
Stars: 4
Review by: deckreader
Destination:
Review: High on adventure to a point of being far fetched at times.
Stars: 4
Review by: deckreader
Destination:
Review: High on adventure to a point of being far fetched at times.
Something Wicked This Way Comes
Author: Ray Bradbury
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Destination: Illinois
Review: I originally read this 30 years ago; I remember enjoying it, but -- WOW! Bradbury blew me away with the lyricism of his writing. Beautiful (scary) coming of age story.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Destination: Illinois
Review: I originally read this 30 years ago; I remember enjoying it, but -- WOW! Bradbury blew me away with the lyricism of his writing. Beautiful (scary) coming of age story.
The Devil She Knows
Author: Bill Loehfelm
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
Destination: New York
Review: Very well depicted setting, good plotting, pace a little slow. Some graphic & disturbing scenes.
Stars: 4
Review by: Tartu
Destination: New York
Review: Very well depicted setting, good plotting, pace a little slow. Some graphic & disturbing scenes.
Nine Dragons
Author: Michael Connelly
Stars: 3
Review by: Gayle M
Destination: Hong Kong
Review: If you like Michael Connelly and the Harry Bosch series, you will like this one.
Stars: 3
Review by: Gayle M
Destination: Hong Kong
Review: If you like Michael Connelly and the Harry Bosch series, you will like this one.