Author:
Carolyn Haines
Stars:
4
Review by: Saraswati
The latest book in this series takes off with our main character and
her fiance finding some quiet time after the last adventure. This does
not last long. The author loosely bases this story on a Mississippi
legend regarding a "Lady in Red" that was accidentally disinterred and
then reinterred at a local cemetery. I looked up the method described
in the book about using cast iron, a glass top and alcohol and it
appears to have been the way of things back in the day. In this story,
the legend comes back to those in the story. There is a lot of family
tree digging, hidden facts, lies, etc. It gets a little dark for a cozy
type series, but that adds to this book's unique character.
Thursday, June 27, 2013
Melissa's 50 Best Plants on the Planet
Author:
Cathy Thomas
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
First and foremost it is a beautiful book with photos by Angie Cao. The pages are color coded to match the food color. The book runs alphabetically and it was fun to see if there were any plants I have yet to try. There weren't many but the uses of the plants were neat. Each plant or fruit/veggie of the plant has its picture, nutritional info, believed to be health facts, fast fixes, 3 recipes (with nutritional info) and at least 1 picture of a finished dish. I read a review that disliked the book for its use of canola oil in a recipe but other than that the reviews are similar to mine. The recipes appear to run the gambit of very simple to somewhat complex. I'll be trying the "Couscous with Shrimp Green Beans" tonight. Looks like a light summer meal.
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
First and foremost it is a beautiful book with photos by Angie Cao. The pages are color coded to match the food color. The book runs alphabetically and it was fun to see if there were any plants I have yet to try. There weren't many but the uses of the plants were neat. Each plant or fruit/veggie of the plant has its picture, nutritional info, believed to be health facts, fast fixes, 3 recipes (with nutritional info) and at least 1 picture of a finished dish. I read a review that disliked the book for its use of canola oil in a recipe but other than that the reviews are similar to mine. The recipes appear to run the gambit of very simple to somewhat complex. I'll be trying the "Couscous with Shrimp Green Beans" tonight. Looks like a light summer meal.
Mad as the Dickens
Author:
Toni L.P. Kelner
Stars: 3
Review by: mystery lover
Easy read. Usual mystery with a little bit of twist.
Stars: 3
Review by: mystery lover
Easy read. Usual mystery with a little bit of twist.
Q is for Quarry
Author:
Sue Grafton
Stars: 2
Review by: Carla R.
Good mystery, but bored to death with details!
Stars: 2
Review by: Carla R.
Good mystery, but bored to death with details!
A Curious Man
Author:
Neal Thompson
Stars: 4
Review by: Mandy A
The only comprehensive biography of LeRoy Robert "Believe it or not!" Ripley. For a man as famous as Ripley was it's sort of amazing by itself so little has been published about him, but it seems that maybe he would have wanted it that way.
Santa Rosa's Roy Ripley became a cartoonist early on working for various newspapers and local publications. But it wasn't until his 30s, with a failed marriage, a burgeoning alcohol problem created to reduce his shame of public speaking and a severe stutter,and the sad early loss of his parents behind him that he published a cartoon entitled Champs and Chumps, the antecedent of his BION series. By the time of his death at age 59 Ripley had become one of the planet's most famous men thanks to his encouragement of the odd, bizarre, and quirky both in his own personal life and his work. A nice book whose main flaw is when it drags a little discussing Ripley's convoluted relationship with his younger brother Doug, whose lackluster attempts to be a part of his brother's empire are repeated constantly. But a fitting memorial to the man who gave us both our national anthem and several odditoriums in one lifetime.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mandy A
The only comprehensive biography of LeRoy Robert "Believe it or not!" Ripley. For a man as famous as Ripley was it's sort of amazing by itself so little has been published about him, but it seems that maybe he would have wanted it that way.
Santa Rosa's Roy Ripley became a cartoonist early on working for various newspapers and local publications. But it wasn't until his 30s, with a failed marriage, a burgeoning alcohol problem created to reduce his shame of public speaking and a severe stutter,and the sad early loss of his parents behind him that he published a cartoon entitled Champs and Chumps, the antecedent of his BION series. By the time of his death at age 59 Ripley had become one of the planet's most famous men thanks to his encouragement of the odd, bizarre, and quirky both in his own personal life and his work. A nice book whose main flaw is when it drags a little discussing Ripley's convoluted relationship with his younger brother Doug, whose lackluster attempts to be a part of his brother's empire are repeated constantly. But a fitting memorial to the man who gave us both our national anthem and several odditoriums in one lifetime.
Running Wild
Author:
Linda Howard & Linda Jones
Stars: 2.5
Review by: syd
Good summer read, but seemed to be written with a more Linda Jones influence than Linda Howard.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: syd
Good summer read, but seemed to be written with a more Linda Jones influence than Linda Howard.
If You Were Here
Author:
Alafair Burke
Stars: almost a 4
Review by: Tartu
Alafair Burke (daughter of best selling author James Lee Burke) has written another stand alone mystery/suspense novel. McKenna Jordan left the NY DA's office ten years ago after she accused a cop of using a drop gun to justify the shooting of a young man. At the same time, her best friend Susan disappeared and no one has seen nor heard from her since. When a would be thief is plucked from the tracks in front of an oncoming subway car, McKenna is certain the woman in the video is Susan and sets out to find out if her friend is still alive and perhaps living in Manhattan.
The plot is multi-layered, and the more layers McKenna peels back, the more she realizes she doesn't really know anyone as well as she thinks she does, including her husband of five years. There are a lot of twists and turns, almost too many, but McKenna, who has been a reporter since leaving the DA's office, uses her investigative skills from both jobs to untangle a ten year old mystery that is a life changer for everyone.
Stars: almost a 4
Review by: Tartu
Alafair Burke (daughter of best selling author James Lee Burke) has written another stand alone mystery/suspense novel. McKenna Jordan left the NY DA's office ten years ago after she accused a cop of using a drop gun to justify the shooting of a young man. At the same time, her best friend Susan disappeared and no one has seen nor heard from her since. When a would be thief is plucked from the tracks in front of an oncoming subway car, McKenna is certain the woman in the video is Susan and sets out to find out if her friend is still alive and perhaps living in Manhattan.
The plot is multi-layered, and the more layers McKenna peels back, the more she realizes she doesn't really know anyone as well as she thinks she does, including her husband of five years. There are a lot of twists and turns, almost too many, but McKenna, who has been a reporter since leaving the DA's office, uses her investigative skills from both jobs to untangle a ten year old mystery that is a life changer for everyone.
Their Eyes Were Watching God
Author:
Zora Neale Hurston
Stars: 4
Review by: Carol
Considering this was written in 1937,it is quite amazing and insightful.
Stars: 4
Review by: Carol
Considering this was written in 1937,it is quite amazing and insightful.
Whitehorn Woods
Author:
Maeve Binchy
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Dozens of short character sketches of Irish men and women who are all connected by the shrine of St Ann.
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Dozens of short character sketches of Irish men and women who are all connected by the shrine of St Ann.
While I'm Falling
Author:
Laura Moriarty
Stars: 3
Review by: Lrizza
This was a quick read. I've read two other books by the same author. It centers on a young college student who has to face the divorce of her parents, school problems, and homelessness.
Stars: 3
Review by: Lrizza
This was a quick read. I've read two other books by the same author. It centers on a young college student who has to face the divorce of her parents, school problems, and homelessness.
Left Neglected
Author: Lisa Genova
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
Excellent. I listened to it on CD. Based on a true injury, one I never heard of.
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
Excellent. I listened to it on CD. Based on a true injury, one I never heard of.
The Hit
Author:
David Baldacci
Stars: 5
Review by: Kathy G
Another good read. Suspenseful right to the very end.
Stars: 5
Review by: Kathy G
Another good read. Suspenseful right to the very end.
Wednesday, June 26, 2013
Friday, June 14, 2013
The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry
Author: Rachel Joyce
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Miss Lucy
A look into the inner thoughts and being of a man on a mission - thoughts about life and death and relationships. Somewhat slow in spots, but overall a good read.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Miss Lucy
A look into the inner thoughts and being of a man on a mission - thoughts about life and death and relationships. Somewhat slow in spots, but overall a good read.
Widow's Tears
Author: Susan Wittig Albert
Stars: 5
Review by: mysteryreader
Thrilling from beginning to end.
Stars: 5
Review by: mysteryreader
Thrilling from beginning to end.
State of Wonder
Author: Ann Patchett
Stars: 4
Review by: Lrizza
The story started out slow, but it picked up midway. The author was very descriptive in her account of the Amazon jungle. She made you feel like you were really there.
Stars: 4
Review by: Lrizza
The story started out slow, but it picked up midway. The author was very descriptive in her account of the Amazon jungle. She made you feel like you were really there.
Looking for Me
Author: Beth Hoffman
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
LOVED IT****** Her first book was good too: Saving Ceecee Honeycutt. Both different concepts, but both take place in the South.
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
LOVED IT****** Her first book was good too: Saving Ceecee Honeycutt. Both different concepts, but both take place in the South.
Summer of Roses
Author: Luanne Rice
Stars: 3
Review by: BookDancer
Summer reading wouldn't be complete for me without a Luanne Rice title. I love her beachy settings, romantic story lines and likable characters, and she usually spins a good yarn. This wasn't one of her best, with some underdeveloped plot lines and characters, but I did enjoy switching back and forth between Connecticut and Nova Scotia.
Stars: 3
Review by: BookDancer
Summer reading wouldn't be complete for me without a Luanne Rice title. I love her beachy settings, romantic story lines and likable characters, and she usually spins a good yarn. This wasn't one of her best, with some underdeveloped plot lines and characters, but I did enjoy switching back and forth between Connecticut and Nova Scotia.
Brain Rules
Author: John Medina
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Fascinating exploration of how the brain seems to learn most efficiently.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Fascinating exploration of how the brain seems to learn most efficiently.
Bossy Pants
Author: Tina Fey
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Absolutely hilarious! The book is well written, but listen to it as an audio book if you can. It is read by the author and it adds a whole new level to the text.
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
Absolutely hilarious! The book is well written, but listen to it as an audio book if you can. It is read by the author and it adds a whole new level to the text.
11/22/63
Author: Stephen King
Stars: 5+
Review by: syd
I highly recommend this book. If you are a Stephen King fan you will love it and if you have never read a Stephen King book before you will be pleasantly surprised. This doesn't have the gore/supernatural aspect as his other books (unless you count going back in time). The character development is great and the book draws you in immediately. Best book I have read in a long time & the audio was exceptional!!!!!!
Stars: 5+
Review by: syd
I highly recommend this book. If you are a Stephen King fan you will love it and if you have never read a Stephen King book before you will be pleasantly surprised. This doesn't have the gore/supernatural aspect as his other books (unless you count going back in time). The character development is great and the book draws you in immediately. Best book I have read in a long time & the audio was exceptional!!!!!!
Thunder Dog
Author: Michael Hingson with Susy Flory
Stars: 3
Review by: syd
This book was very insightful of a blind person and how they adapt with the use of a guide dog. Add being caught in the World Trade Center on 9/11 --What a story! Next time you see a blind person I am sure you will look at them very differently.
Stars: 3
Review by: syd
This book was very insightful of a blind person and how they adapt with the use of a guide dog. Add being caught in the World Trade Center on 9/11 --What a story! Next time you see a blind person I am sure you will look at them very differently.
Don't Bite the Apple
Author: Vanessa Waznis
Stars: 2
Review by: Marian
A strange story with a very unexpected ending. A bit disjointed.
Stars: 2
Review by: Marian
A strange story with a very unexpected ending. A bit disjointed.
Water for Elephants
Author: Sara Gruen
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A very touching story centered around the history of a circus during the 1930's.
Stars: 4
Review by: Marian
A very touching story centered around the history of a circus during the 1930's.
Looking for Me
Author: Beth Hoffman
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
Not as good as her first book, Saving CeeCee Honeycutt, but still very, very good!
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
Not as good as her first book, Saving CeeCee Honeycutt, but still very, very good!
The Brass Verdict
Author: Michael Connelly
Stars: 5
Review by: mysteryfan
I am a true fan of mystery writer Michael Connelly and this book was the best I've read by him. He presents the problems inherent in the court system, the pros and cons of being on the side of the defense lawyer. The plot was excellent and kept me turning page after page!
Stars: 5
Review by: mysteryfan
I am a true fan of mystery writer Michael Connelly and this book was the best I've read by him. He presents the problems inherent in the court system, the pros and cons of being on the side of the defense lawyer. The plot was excellent and kept me turning page after page!
Wednesday, June 12, 2013
Worth the Risk
Author:
Jayne Ann Krentz
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
This book contains two earlier Krentz books: The Challoner Bride and Wizard. These were written under the name Stephanie James. Both books reminded of reading a Diana Palmer book except the "saving the day" male is roughly the same age as the spunky, but naive lady. They were fast reads that were OK, but very predictable.
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
This book contains two earlier Krentz books: The Challoner Bride and Wizard. These were written under the name Stephanie James. Both books reminded of reading a Diana Palmer book except the "saving the day" male is roughly the same age as the spunky, but naive lady. They were fast reads that were OK, but very predictable.
Best Kept Secrets
Author:
Jeffrey Archer
Stars: 3
Review by: Judy
This is the third book of the Clifton Chronicles and the way it ended I think there will be a fourth. I rated the first one a 5, the second a 4, and the last one a 3.
Stars: 3
Review by: Judy
This is the third book of the Clifton Chronicles and the way it ended I think there will be a fourth. I rated the first one a 5, the second a 4, and the last one a 3.
Safe House
Author:
Chris Ewan
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Never read a book by this author, but it held my attention right from the first page. Many twists.
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Never read a book by this author, but it held my attention right from the first page. Many twists.
Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust
Author:
Immaculee Ilibagiza
Stars: 5
Review by: Kathyb
This is an uplifting story during an incredibly horrible event in history. I am embarrassed at how little I knew of this awful, unspeakable genocide. It is the story of forgiveness that I will never forget.
Stars: 5
Review by: Kathyb
This is an uplifting story during an incredibly horrible event in history. I am embarrassed at how little I knew of this awful, unspeakable genocide. It is the story of forgiveness that I will never forget.
Scent To Kill
Author:
Chrystle Fieldler
Stars: 1
Review by: L.Z.
Ugh! Worst fluff murder mystery I have picked up in a while, and I didn't have the heart to abandon a book part way through it so early into the summer reading program.
Awkwardly written, characters and their relationships to each other were unbelievable, and the "natural" and "organic" components seemed so artificially inserted that they detracted from the book way more than adding to it. This is a series that I think I'll steer clear of!
Stars: 1
Review by: L.Z.
Ugh! Worst fluff murder mystery I have picked up in a while, and I didn't have the heart to abandon a book part way through it so early into the summer reading program.
Awkwardly written, characters and their relationships to each other were unbelievable, and the "natural" and "organic" components seemed so artificially inserted that they detracted from the book way more than adding to it. This is a series that I think I'll steer clear of!
Aunt Diminty Goes West
Author:
Nancy Atherton
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The next book in this series of many, leaves our main character in shock after the events of the last book. It is decided that she is to return to the States and vacation in CO. A fun twist is seeing her English village transferred to the small CO town. I can really feel for the character when she is making the comparison and no one else sees or cares about it. This is just a nice cozy series to read. Enjoy!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
The next book in this series of many, leaves our main character in shock after the events of the last book. It is decided that she is to return to the States and vacation in CO. A fun twist is seeing her English village transferred to the small CO town. I can really feel for the character when she is making the comparison and no one else sees or cares about it. This is just a nice cozy series to read. Enjoy!
Aunt Diminty and the Deep Blue Sea
Author:
Nancy Atherton
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I really like this cozy series. I started it last summer and wanted to hold out for this summer, but I couldn't and I read a bunch more during the year. This series is about the adventures of an American couple, and now their children, living in a small town in England. As with any cozy, there is $, fun, murder and sleuthing. This series has a paranormal twist that makes it interesting. The series doesn't always end super happy, but you still feel good reading them. Nice, enjoyable and plenty in the series if you get started now.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I really like this cozy series. I started it last summer and wanted to hold out for this summer, but I couldn't and I read a bunch more during the year. This series is about the adventures of an American couple, and now their children, living in a small town in England. As with any cozy, there is $, fun, murder and sleuthing. This series has a paranormal twist that makes it interesting. The series doesn't always end super happy, but you still feel good reading them. Nice, enjoyable and plenty in the series if you get started now.
Assaulted Pretzel: An Amish Mystery
Author:
Laura Bradford
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is book 2 in the series and I am eagerly awaiting book 1. This is a fun cozy that relates the "English" to the "Amish." This one takes a twist (no pun intended - pretzel?) on a secondary character and what does it mean to be Amish. You have your usual touch and go love, a murder mystery, and some fun. I think this will be a good summer series to read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is book 2 in the series and I am eagerly awaiting book 1. This is a fun cozy that relates the "English" to the "Amish." This one takes a twist (no pun intended - pretzel?) on a secondary character and what does it mean to be Amish. You have your usual touch and go love, a murder mystery, and some fun. I think this will be a good summer series to read.
Mark of the Witch
Author:
Maggie Shayne
Stars: 2.5
Review by: Saraswati
Nothing like reading a series out of order. First book 3 then 1 maybe I'll get to 2 this summer. After reading 3 first, you know what will happen. The mystery behind an ex-priest that really wasn't was kind of intriguing. Not bad, but I would read in order.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: Saraswati
Nothing like reading a series out of order. First book 3 then 1 maybe I'll get to 2 this summer. After reading 3 first, you know what will happen. The mystery behind an ex-priest that really wasn't was kind of intriguing. Not bad, but I would read in order.
Beautiful Ruins
Author:
Jess Walter
Stars: 5
Review by: Jambob
One of those books you cannot stop reading and at the same time do not want to end. Italy, Hollywood, Liz Taylor , Richard Burton, love, betrayal.... a tossed salad that once it settles, all the pieces fall into place. Enjoy!
Stars: 5
Review by: Jambob
One of those books you cannot stop reading and at the same time do not want to end. Italy, Hollywood, Liz Taylor , Richard Burton, love, betrayal.... a tossed salad that once it settles, all the pieces fall into place. Enjoy!
What We Carry
Author:
Elizabeth Berg
Stars: 4
Review by: Barb
I liked listening to this audio book, and that it was read by someone other than Elizabeth Berg. Going through a nostalgic period in my life, it was nice to know that I wasn't alone with conflicting feelings.
Stars: 4
Review by: Barb
I liked listening to this audio book, and that it was read by someone other than Elizabeth Berg. Going through a nostalgic period in my life, it was nice to know that I wasn't alone with conflicting feelings.
Heat Rises
Author:
Richard Castle
Stars: 4
Review by: Barb
This audio book was a good listen in the car and enjoyed by both myself and my hubby. Of course, we are also Castle fans.
Stars: 4
Review by: Barb
This audio book was a good listen in the car and enjoyed by both myself and my hubby. Of course, we are also Castle fans.
Gone Girl
Author:
Gillian Flynn
Stars: 5
Review by: kellyham
Read it in less than a week. It kept my attention. I sat for hours till I finished it. Highly recommended.
Stars: 5
Review by: kellyham
Read it in less than a week. It kept my attention. I sat for hours till I finished it. Highly recommended.
Things Fall Apart
Author:
Chinua Achebe
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Acclaimed author Achebe reveals how life in an isolated village in Africa is governed by traditions, until European missionaries and governments change the rules, with tragic results.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Acclaimed author Achebe reveals how life in an isolated village in Africa is governed by traditions, until European missionaries and governments change the rules, with tragic results.
Animal Dreams
Author:
Barbara Kingsolver
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Besides a sensitive & insightful look at Native Americans and environmental issues (recurring themes in all Kingsolver's novels) this offers the most honest, straightforward view into the mind of someone in the beginning stages of Alzheimer's disease.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mary NK
Besides a sensitive & insightful look at Native Americans and environmental issues (recurring themes in all Kingsolver's novels) this offers the most honest, straightforward view into the mind of someone in the beginning stages of Alzheimer's disease.
The Dovekeepers
Author:
Alice Hoffman
Stars: 5
Review by: Bernie Remaly
I thought the book was excellent and I enjoyed the characters and how they interacted with one another. There were a few surprises at the end of the book regarding the relationships to one another. Fabulous book!
Stars: 5
Review by: Bernie Remaly
I thought the book was excellent and I enjoyed the characters and how they interacted with one another. There were a few surprises at the end of the book regarding the relationships to one another. Fabulous book!
The Scarlet Feather
Author:
Maeve Binchy
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Likeable characters, no big dramas. A story of Tom & Kathy, their friends and family, and one year in their start-up catering company.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Likeable characters, no big dramas. A story of Tom & Kathy, their friends and family, and one year in their start-up catering company.
The Time of My Life
Author:
Celia Ahem
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Stuck in a rut, Lucy's family arranges for her to meet her life - a rumpled, unattractive man. He's soon following her everywhere, determined to get her to face change. This is the story of how Lucy finally learns what is important. A fun read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
Stuck in a rut, Lucy's family arranges for her to meet her life - a rumpled, unattractive man. He's soon following her everywhere, determined to get her to face change. This is the story of how Lucy finally learns what is important. A fun read.
The World's Strongest Librarian
Author:
Josh Hanagarne
Stars: 4
Review by: Sign babies
Gets a little bogged down in the middle, but the end is worth pursuing.
Stars: 4
Review by: Sign babies
Gets a little bogged down in the middle, but the end is worth pursuing.
Just Jennifer
Night Film by Marisha
Passl (Random House, September 2013)
Seven years after Passl’s novel Special Topics in Calamity Physics was named a New York Times best book of 2006, she is back with an epic novel
that begins with the suicide of Amanda Cordova the twenty-four-year-old
daughter of a reclusive movie producer whose movies have become underground
cult classics and doesn’t let up until a disgraced journalist questions not only
his sanity, but his grasp on reality.
Scott McGrath threw the gauntlet down in an interview about Stanislas Cordova,
a Stanley Kubrick-esque movie maker.
Shortly after that, he finds his career in the toilet and becomes
obsessed with finding Cordova and revealing all his secrets. When Amanda is found dead at the bottom of an
elevator shaft in an abandoned building, her death is ruled a suicide, but
Scott is doubtful and becomes entwined with her last few years, trying to prove
that it was her upbringing that drove the child piano prodigy to her
death. Joining forces with two unlikely
young people, the coat check girl at the Four Seasons who may have been the
last person to see Amanda alive and a young man who knows more than he is
letting on, Scott reluctantly brings his charges with him to an upstate mental
facility Amanda escaped from and to the secret websites where Cordova fans post
theories about the movie maker and Amanda’s death along with the underground
venues where these movies are currently being screened. The deeper Scott digs into this hypnotic,
eerie world, the stranger the world he knows becomes as people disappear and
recant their stories, disavowing any knowledge of or contact with Amanda or her
father. Jeopardizing his visitation with
his daughter and whatever relationship he has been able to maintain with his
ex-wife, Scott finds himself straddling reality, dangerously close to
obsession, an obsession he realizes that began when he unknowingly saw the
young woman in her now famous red coat in the Park. Over six hundred pages may initially be off
putting, but readers are quickly drawn into the narrative as they follow along
with Scott in his quest to uncover the truth about Cordova. It almost seems as if there are two separate
endings, offering a “choose your own adventure” feeling, but they come together at the very end when
it looks as if Scott will get all his answers…or not.
Just Jennifer
Race Across the Sky by Derek Sherman (Plume, August 2013)
Caleb and Shane Oberest gained their love of running from
their father as children. As young
adults, they initially took similar paths as Caleb took a consulting career on
the East Coast and Shane a sales job with a pharmaceutical on the West
Coast. Their paths diverge when Caleb
becomes obsessed with ultramarathoning, running over one hundred miles at a
time, leaving his job and severing all
ties with his family to live in a cult-like situation near Boulder. Caleb subjects a strict regime each day,
running for hours, eating only twice a day and not having a relationship with
any member of the club, something he has no trouble doing until June and her
infant daughter Lily arrive, June a marathoner herself, Lily a very sick child
whom June is hoping will benefit from some of the holistic practices professed
by the leader of the house, Mack. When
Caleb realizes that Lily will die unless she gets more help and faster than
Mack is able to provide, he reaches out to his brother Shane who has begun his
own change in lifestyles as he awaits the birth of his first child and leaves
his sales job for a division director in the biotechnology company in which his
wife works. Shane’s initial reaction is
to get Caleb out of the house at any cost, but when he realizes his brother
will not leave without assurances that Lily will get the help she needs, he
appeals to the doctors in the labs at his new company hoping for a miracle that
will not only save Lily, but bring his brother home. Caleb and his housemates are preparing for
the penultimate marathon, one held in Yosemite on a course where men have died
in the past, one that Mack says Caleb must participate in if he hopes to bring
Lily to Shane to search for an alternate cure; neither can image at what cost
each of these men will attempt to reach their goals and what will the impact be
on their lives and families. With no
holds barred, Sherman details the effects of such physical strains on the body
and mind, in addition to the cult mentality to which Caleb has succumbed. Even as different as the brothers’ lives have
become, there are certain parallels drawn as each searches for where they
belong in the universe and in the smaller microcosm each inhabits. Disturbing at times, Sherman’s narrative is
propelled forward, making stops at aid stations along the way, each brother
being paced by someone through the difficult times much the way Caleb’s housemates
care for each other, trying to reach a summit that may not have been the
original goal.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Someday, Someday, Maybe
Author:
Lauren Graham
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
My favorite actress from Gilmore Girls and Parenthood wrote this novel about a young woman trying to break into acting in NYC. Light and fun.
Stars: 4
Review by: libraryaimee
My favorite actress from Gilmore Girls and Parenthood wrote this novel about a young woman trying to break into acting in NYC. Light and fun.
The Lincoln Lawyer
Author: Michael Connelly
Stars: 4
Review by: mysteryfan
I enjoyed the twists and turns of the plot all the way to the last page. Excellent mystery writer. He keeps you guessing until the final page.
Stars: 4
Review by: mysteryfan
I enjoyed the twists and turns of the plot all the way to the last page. Excellent mystery writer. He keeps you guessing until the final page.
Saturday, June 8, 2013
A Place Called Home
Author:
Jo Goodman
Stars: 3
Review by: syd
First time I read a book by this author--better than I expected. Dealt with real life issues.
Stars: 3
Review by: syd
First time I read a book by this author--better than I expected. Dealt with real life issues.
If You Were Here
Author: Jennifer Lancaster
Stars: 3
Review by: BookMom3
If you are looking for an easy, funny book this is it. Jennifer Lancaster has a writing style much like Janet Evanovich.
Stars: 3
Review by: BookMom3
If you are looking for an easy, funny book this is it. Jennifer Lancaster has a writing style much like Janet Evanovich.
Only Time Will Tell
Author:
Jeffery Archer
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy
This is volume 1 of The Clifton Chronicles and I was fortunate to get all three volumes at the same time. Archer is a great storyteller. Very enjoyable!
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy
This is volume 1 of The Clifton Chronicles and I was fortunate to get all three volumes at the same time. Archer is a great storyteller. Very enjoyable!
Seven Patients
Author:
Atul Kumar
Stars: 3
Review by: Sandi W
It was interesting to read about all of the hospital jargon and procedures - how much is true to life I am not sure, but it certainly sounded realistic. The seven patients themselves were somewhat interesting, but I did not really find myself liking any of the characters in this book - so more for curiosity value it gets a 3.
Stars: 3
Review by: Sandi W
It was interesting to read about all of the hospital jargon and procedures - how much is true to life I am not sure, but it certainly sounded realistic. The seven patients themselves were somewhat interesting, but I did not really find myself liking any of the characters in this book - so more for curiosity value it gets a 3.
Beautiful Redemption
Author:
Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
My granddaughter shared this series with me and I did enjoy it.
Stars: 3
Review by: Carol
My granddaughter shared this series with me and I did enjoy it.
Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend
Author:
Matthew Dicks
Stars: 5
Review by: Lrizza
I absolutely loved this book! It was written in the point of view of a little autistic boy's imaginary friend. When something bad happens to the little boy, Budo, the imaginary friend tries to save him, which, in turn, could be the end of Budo's existence.
Stars: 5
Review by: Lrizza
I absolutely loved this book! It was written in the point of view of a little autistic boy's imaginary friend. When something bad happens to the little boy, Budo, the imaginary friend tries to save him, which, in turn, could be the end of Budo's existence.
Another Piece of my Heart
Author:
Jane Green
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
I had read this before. Not a new book. Family conflict. It kept my interest even the second time around.
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
I had read this before. Not a new book. Family conflict. It kept my interest even the second time around.
The World's Strongest Librarian
Author:Josh Hanagarne
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Biography. I listened to it. Very interesting man. A lot about Tourette syndrome.
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Biography. I listened to it. Very interesting man. A lot about Tourette syndrome.
The Stranger
Author:
Camille Lackberg
Stars: 5
Review by: Pageturner
Latest in her series of mysteries (all of which I intend to read.) Lackberg is a master at intrigue.
Stars: 5
Review by: Pageturner
Latest in her series of mysteries (all of which I intend to read.) Lackberg is a master at intrigue.
Someday, Someday, Maybe
Author:
Lauren Graham
Stars: 3+
Review by: Marian
This is the first book of this author who is also an actor. The story centers around a young actor who is trying to get started in the business. It started a bit slow, but developed into a very good story with interesting characters and you cared about the ending. I enjoyed it.
Stars: 3+
Review by: Marian
This is the first book of this author who is also an actor. The story centers around a young actor who is trying to get started in the business. It started a bit slow, but developed into a very good story with interesting characters and you cared about the ending. I enjoyed it.
Fatal Invention
Author:
Dorothy Roberts
Stars: 4
Review by: kayaker
Dorothy Roberts, a law and sociology professor at UPenn is compelling in her evidence that our world is still highly racialized. Her cornerstone is the science of genomics and points to evidence that scientific rationale enables us to accept this racialized world even after the findings of the Human Genome Project. The validation of a biological division of races is countered by Roberts' argument that race is political, and, in fact, there is only one human race without division by skin tone. She brings the reader through the history of race in an abbreviated method followed by medical stereotyping, genetic surveillance, and the continued and enforced concept of biological race through the scientific and pharma worlds. Her advice to the geneticists? Explore the commonalities of the human race, not the differences as there are very few.
Stars: 4
Review by: kayaker
Dorothy Roberts, a law and sociology professor at UPenn is compelling in her evidence that our world is still highly racialized. Her cornerstone is the science of genomics and points to evidence that scientific rationale enables us to accept this racialized world even after the findings of the Human Genome Project. The validation of a biological division of races is countered by Roberts' argument that race is political, and, in fact, there is only one human race without division by skin tone. She brings the reader through the history of race in an abbreviated method followed by medical stereotyping, genetic surveillance, and the continued and enforced concept of biological race through the scientific and pharma worlds. Her advice to the geneticists? Explore the commonalities of the human race, not the differences as there are very few.
A Dog Walks into a Nursing Home
Author:
Sue Halpern
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A wonderful read about the values and virtues of therapy dog teams and a good look at the reality of aging and elder care.
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
A wonderful read about the values and virtues of therapy dog teams and a good look at the reality of aging and elder care.
The Body in the PIazza
Author:
Katherine Hall Page
Stars: 4
Review by: Jambob
I had to give this book a 4 instead of a 3 due to its description of the food with its included recipes...I am not sure if I read this cozy mystery or ate it up with my eyes. Beautiful descriptions of Rome and Florence while solving one murder mystery and trying to prevent another. But the dinner segments made my mouth water. A fun summer read and Buon Appetito.
Stars: 4
Review by: Jambob
I had to give this book a 4 instead of a 3 due to its description of the food with its included recipes...I am not sure if I read this cozy mystery or ate it up with my eyes. Beautiful descriptions of Rome and Florence while solving one murder mystery and trying to prevent another. But the dinner segments made my mouth water. A fun summer read and Buon Appetito.
Fly Away
Author:
Kristin Hannah
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
This is the sequel to Firefly Lane. You won't be disappointed.
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
This is the sequel to Firefly Lane. You won't be disappointed.
Looking for Me
Author:
Beth Hoffman
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
This is her second book. I really liked her first one and this one is good too. It is about a woman who goes against her mother's wishes to go to college and she opens her own antique/furniture repair shop. She does well in her business, but her relationship is strained with her mom. She is looking for her place in the world without having to feel guilty when she disappoints others.
Stars: 5
Review by: KeeRead
This is her second book. I really liked her first one and this one is good too. It is about a woman who goes against her mother's wishes to go to college and she opens her own antique/furniture repair shop. She does well in her business, but her relationship is strained with her mom. She is looking for her place in the world without having to feel guilty when she disappoints others.
And the Mountains Echoed
Author:
Khaled Hosseini
Stars: 1
Review by: KeeRead
I was looking forward to this book, since I liked both of his previous titles. The first 50 pages were good, but then it got boring and there were too many characters to keep track of.
Stars: 1
Review by: KeeRead
I was looking forward to this book, since I liked both of his previous titles. The first 50 pages were good, but then it got boring and there were too many characters to keep track of.
Six Years
Author: Harlan Coben
Stars: 5
Review by: Beachreader
A true page-turner suspense about a lost love filled with hidden secrets.
Stars: 5
Review by: Beachreader
A true page-turner suspense about a lost love filled with hidden secrets.
The Diary of a Young Girl: The Definitive Edition
Author:
Anne Frank
Stars: 4
Review by: Kathyb
At 49 I had never read Anne Frank's Diary. My 14 year old son was given the book by his Language Arts teacher. I decided to read it with him. I was so taken by Anne's journal entries and watching her mature that I ripped through it. Now I am waiting for my son (a reluctant reader) to finish. When he does we will reward him with a trip to DC to see the Holocaust museum!!!!
Stars: 4
Review by: Kathyb
At 49 I had never read Anne Frank's Diary. My 14 year old son was given the book by his Language Arts teacher. I decided to read it with him. I was so taken by Anne's journal entries and watching her mature that I ripped through it. Now I am waiting for my son (a reluctant reader) to finish. When he does we will reward him with a trip to DC to see the Holocaust museum!!!!
Relentless
Author:
Cherry Adair
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Another intrigue book by C. Adair. This one has spies, murder, Egyptology, and unexpected love. The only issue I have with this book is the quick love & marriage at the end. I like the strong female and the man that needs a little help. Yet in the end, after all the denial, why in the last pages does everything become a very happy ending? It felt like it had to be thrown in there just to make it publishable. Still, not a bad summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Another intrigue book by C. Adair. This one has spies, murder, Egyptology, and unexpected love. The only issue I have with this book is the quick love & marriage at the end. I like the strong female and the man that needs a little help. Yet in the end, after all the denial, why in the last pages does everything become a very happy ending? It felt like it had to be thrown in there just to make it publishable. Still, not a bad summer read.
Cat Trick: A Magical Cats Mystery
Author:
Sofie Kelly
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
Book #3 in the series. This a fun cozy about magical cats that "own" a librarian. It's neat to read a dialogue between the main character and her cats. A fun, easy mystery to read.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
Book #3 in the series. This a fun cozy about magical cats that "own" a librarian. It's neat to read a dialogue between the main character and her cats. A fun, easy mystery to read.
Tapestry of Fortunes
Author:
Elizabeth Berg
Stars: 4
Review by: Beachreader
I enjoyed this book very much. It's about four women who search their past to find their futures,fates and fortunes. But most important of all, they become best of friends in doing so.
Stars: 4
Review by: Beachreader
I enjoyed this book very much. It's about four women who search their past to find their futures,fates and fortunes. But most important of all, they become best of friends in doing so.
A Walk in the Woods
Author:
Bill Bryson
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Beautiful and humorous, this book spoke to my inner (and very neglected) hiker. Wonderful descriptions, colorful characters, and an unexpected pilgrimage theme inspired this couch potato to take some "steps" toward nature (re)discovery, starting with the Delaware Water Gap!
Stars: 4
Review by: BookDancer
Beautiful and humorous, this book spoke to my inner (and very neglected) hiker. Wonderful descriptions, colorful characters, and an unexpected pilgrimage theme inspired this couch potato to take some "steps" toward nature (re)discovery, starting with the Delaware Water Gap!
The Woman Who Heard Color
Author:
Kelly Jones
Stars: 4
Review by: Lrizza
This book alternated between current times and the early 1900's through WWII. It all focused around certain art that may have been destroyed or sold under Hitler's reign and the woman who was involved. The story was gripping at times. It felt like you were there in Munich along with the main character.
Stars: 4
Review by: Lrizza
This book alternated between current times and the early 1900's through WWII. It all focused around certain art that may have been destroyed or sold under Hitler's reign and the woman who was involved. The story was gripping at times. It felt like you were there in Munich along with the main character.
Little Bee
Author:
Chris Cleave
Stars: 4
Review by: SCL
This book was amazing and I was so excited to find a five star book. Until the very end, that is. I just did not like the ending at all. After processing for a while, I may decide that it was the logical end, but it sure wasn't the romantic one!
Stars: 4
Review by: SCL
This book was amazing and I was so excited to find a five star book. Until the very end, that is. I just did not like the ending at all. After processing for a while, I may decide that it was the logical end, but it sure wasn't the romantic one!
Cat's Cradle
Author:
Kurt Vonnegut
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
How to accidentally destroy the world. Still enjoyed it, 20+ years after the first time I read it.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
How to accidentally destroy the world. Still enjoyed it, 20+ years after the first time I read it.
Nightmare
Author:
Stephen Leather
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Book 3 of the Nightingale series, featuring Jack Nightingale, who has learned 1) he was adopted at birth, 2) his biological father was a Satanist, and 3) he only has a few weeks left to live as Daddy bargained away his soul before he was born. Great writing; much better than it sounds!
Stars: 4
Review by: Marianne S.
Book 3 of the Nightingale series, featuring Jack Nightingale, who has learned 1) he was adopted at birth, 2) his biological father was a Satanist, and 3) he only has a few weeks left to live as Daddy bargained away his soul before he was born. Great writing; much better than it sounds!
Sand Castle Bay
Author:
Sherryl Woods
Stars: 5
Review by: book lover
It was a great book! Hard to put down. There are two other books in this series: Wind Chime Point and Sea Glass Island. All the books by Sherryl Woods are great.
Stars: 5
Review by: book lover
It was a great book! Hard to put down. There are two other books in this series: Wind Chime Point and Sea Glass Island. All the books by Sherryl Woods are great.
In the Shadow of Blackbirds
Author:
Cat Winters
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
This is a young adult book that takes place during the end of WWI in San Diego during the Spanish flu epidemic. Spiritualism in the city was huge at this time and people flocked to photographers in hopes of having dead loved ones appear. The book veers into supernatural with an actual ghost, but the mystery surrounding the death of person (pre-ghost) is suspenseful and frightening. Each chapter includes an old photo in which a "ghost" appeared. Loved it!
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
This is a young adult book that takes place during the end of WWI in San Diego during the Spanish flu epidemic. Spiritualism in the city was huge at this time and people flocked to photographers in hopes of having dead loved ones appear. The book veers into supernatural with an actual ghost, but the mystery surrounding the death of person (pre-ghost) is suspenseful and frightening. Each chapter includes an old photo in which a "ghost" appeared. Loved it!
The House Girl
Author:
Tara Conklin
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
This book intertwines the stories of a slave girl in 1852 and a modern day woman working at a NYC law firm. I loved both characters and their stories. The historical aspect is very interesting: the lawyer tries to track down living relatives of the house girl slave.
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
This book intertwines the stories of a slave girl in 1852 and a modern day woman working at a NYC law firm. I loved both characters and their stories. The historical aspect is very interesting: the lawyer tries to track down living relatives of the house girl slave.
The Burgess Boys
Author:
Elizabeth Strout
Stars: 4
Review by: Happygirl
What I liked about this book: Strout has the ability to make the ordinary interesting. With the exception of the son who throws a pig's head into a mosque, this book is about normal people who go to college, get jobs in "the big city", get married, have kids, get divorced . . . or not. I felt like I was Olive Ketteridge when I read that book and here I feel like I am one of the Burgess kids, especially when one of the brothers tells the other he is tired of listening to him. It sounds so much like my own family. If I have any complaints, it's that the ending isn't crisp enough. After (whoops . . . spoiler alert!!!) it seems to drag on to the finish.
Stars: 4
Review by: Happygirl
What I liked about this book: Strout has the ability to make the ordinary interesting. With the exception of the son who throws a pig's head into a mosque, this book is about normal people who go to college, get jobs in "the big city", get married, have kids, get divorced . . . or not. I felt like I was Olive Ketteridge when I read that book and here I feel like I am one of the Burgess kids, especially when one of the brothers tells the other he is tired of listening to him. It sounds so much like my own family. If I have any complaints, it's that the ending isn't crisp enough. After (whoops . . . spoiler alert!!!) it seems to drag on to the finish.
Reunion at Red Paint Bay
Author:
George Harrar
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Miss Lucy
Do sins of the past go away if they are old enough?
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Miss Lucy
Do sins of the past go away if they are old enough?
Tempest in the Tea Leaves
Author:
Kari Lee Townsend
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is book 1 in the series. I had book 2 on my shelf and read it and was happy to see the library had books 1 and 3. This is a fun, light cozy about a city girl with a special talent. She moves to a charming upstate NY town to find her way. Instead she finds her way into intrigue and murder. She gets to use her talent to solve these mysteries. It reads like Evanovich light. Enjoy!
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is book 1 in the series. I had book 2 on my shelf and read it and was happy to see the library had books 1 and 3. This is a fun, light cozy about a city girl with a special talent. She moves to a charming upstate NY town to find her way. Instead she finds her way into intrigue and murder. She gets to use her talent to solve these mysteries. It reads like Evanovich light. Enjoy!
Wedding Night
Author:
Sophie Kinsella
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Laugh out loud book. Her books always put you in a good mood.
Stars: 4
Review by: syd
Laugh out loud book. Her books always put you in a good mood.
Wednesday, June 5, 2013
Tuesday, June 4, 2013
The Way Life Should Be
Author: Christina Baker Kline
Stars: 5
Review by: Angel1
Fast reading, enjoyable fun summer read. A young woman leaves everything and moves to Maine. Also, includes great authentic, Italian recipes.
Stars: 5
Review by: Angel1
Fast reading, enjoyable fun summer read. A young woman leaves everything and moves to Maine. Also, includes great authentic, Italian recipes.
And the Mountains Echoed
Author: Khaled Housseini
Stars: 3
Review by: Kathy G
This was a difficult read for me that finally came together at the end. Many of the chapters seemed disjointed.
Stars: 3
Review by: Kathy G
This was a difficult read for me that finally came together at the end. Many of the chapters seemed disjointed.
Through Frankie's Eyes
Author: Barbara Techel
Stars: 4
Review by: Gypsy P
Adorable, heartfelt story of a woman and her dogs ~ in particular her dachshund, Frankie, who ends up in a roller cart.
Stars: 4
Review by: Gypsy P
Adorable, heartfelt story of a woman and her dogs ~ in particular her dachshund, Frankie, who ends up in a roller cart.
Secret Daughter
Author: Shilpi Somaya Gowda
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
I just read this book for the second time and loved it as much as the first time.
Stars: 5
Review by: ADAR
I just read this book for the second time and loved it as much as the first time.
A Good Man
Author: J. J. Murray
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
If you like to watch The Bachelorette, then be sure to read this book about contestants on a Bachelorette-type reality show.
Stars: 3
Review by: Miss Lucy
If you like to watch The Bachelorette, then be sure to read this book about contestants on a Bachelorette-type reality show.