Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars:
5
Review by: Saraswati
This is the second time through this book for me. I enjoyed it just as
much this time as last. This is about the engagement and wedding of
Jules Cassidy and Robin Chadwick. This book is dedicated to mass equality and a lot of the story talks about love and equality. As
always, there is always suspense, intrigue, FBI, SEALs and
Troubleshooters thrown into the mix. A feel good, summer read.
Friday, July 26, 2013
Need You Now
Author: Beth Wiseman
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
I simply loved this book. I want to read more of her books.
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
I simply loved this book. I want to read more of her books.
Thursday, July 25, 2013
Dark of Night
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
This story is the finale of the James Nash & Tess Baily tale. It also includes back stories on the characters Dave Malkoff & Sohphia Ghaffai and Lawrence Decker & Tracy Shapiro. As always there is a lot of intrigue, conspiracies and FBI-SEAL-Troubleshooter intervention. Good summer read.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
This story is the finale of the James Nash & Tess Baily tale. It also includes back stories on the characters Dave Malkoff & Sohphia Ghaffai and Lawrence Decker & Tracy Shapiro. As always there is a lot of intrigue, conspiracies and FBI-SEAL-Troubleshooter intervention. Good summer read.
Deadly Forecast
Author:
Victoria Laurie
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest Psychic Eye book out. Our main character is planning her wedding when a serial bomber enters the scene. Using her psychic skills, along with her friends and FBI hubby-to-be they set out trying to stop the bomber before he attacks again. The wedding party planning back story is funny. It's cool to see that the wedding provided a venue to allow characters from her Ghost Hunters series to blend into the mix. The story gets intense for a cozy and has somewhat of a twist at the end. Enjoy this good summer read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest Psychic Eye book out. Our main character is planning her wedding when a serial bomber enters the scene. Using her psychic skills, along with her friends and FBI hubby-to-be they set out trying to stop the bomber before he attacks again. The wedding party planning back story is funny. It's cool to see that the wedding provided a venue to allow characters from her Ghost Hunters series to blend into the mix. The story gets intense for a cozy and has somewhat of a twist at the end. Enjoy this good summer read.
Magic for a Price
Author:
Devon Monk
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest book in this series. I thought the last book may have been the last in this series, but this one definitely brings more closure. Allie and gang are recouping from their big fight with the Agency. They find out that the Overseer is possessed and is killing all the Soul Complements like Allie and her Beau. In addition, the Overseer is heading to Portland to take over the magical world. Allie and gang, including her Dad in her head, are off to fight the battle. A surprise twist to the ending makes this interesting. Enjoy this good summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest book in this series. I thought the last book may have been the last in this series, but this one definitely brings more closure. Allie and gang are recouping from their big fight with the Agency. They find out that the Overseer is possessed and is killing all the Soul Complements like Allie and her Beau. In addition, the Overseer is heading to Portland to take over the magical world. Allie and gang, including her Dad in her head, are off to fight the battle. A surprise twist to the ending makes this interesting. Enjoy this good summer read.
40 Love
Author:
Madeline Wickham
Stars: 2
Review by: syd
I enjoy Madeleine Wickham writing as Sophie Kinsella much better.
Stars: 2
Review by: syd
I enjoy Madeleine Wickham writing as Sophie Kinsella much better.
The Inn at Rose Harbor
Author:
Debbie Macomber
Stars: 4
Review by: Rainbow
Great book. I can't wait for the next one in this series.
Stars: 4
Review by: Rainbow
Great book. I can't wait for the next one in this series.
Tuesday, July 23, 2013
The Yellow Birds
Author:
Kevin Powers
Stars: 4
Review by: Ann M
Written by an Iraq veteran, this book tells the story of two young soldiers' relationship and adaptation to going to war in Iraq.
Stars: 4
Review by: Ann M
Written by an Iraq veteran, this book tells the story of two young soldiers' relationship and adaptation to going to war in Iraq.
Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?
Author:
Philip K. Dick
Stars: 3
Review by: Michelle D
This book is the basis for the movie Blade Runner. About a bounty hunter who has to track down and kill androids that are disguised as humans. Interesting to see what the future world could be like. Discusses empathy - is that what makes us humans?
Stars: 3
Review by: Michelle D
This book is the basis for the movie Blade Runner. About a bounty hunter who has to track down and kill androids that are disguised as humans. Interesting to see what the future world could be like. Discusses empathy - is that what makes us humans?
The Story Sisters
Author:
Alice Hoffman
Stars: 4
Review by: Michelle D
About three sisters and their sad, dysfunctional lives. Reminds us of making the right choices in life, and how hard it is to make those choices.
Stars: 4
Review by: Michelle D
About three sisters and their sad, dysfunctional lives. Reminds us of making the right choices in life, and how hard it is to make those choices.
Calling Invisible Women
Author:
Jeanne Ray
Stars: 3
Review by: Michelle D
About a woman who wakes up invisible. But is she truly invisible, or not appreciated by the people around her. Interesting book.
Stars: 3
Review by: Michelle D
About a woman who wakes up invisible. But is she truly invisible, or not appreciated by the people around her. Interesting book.
Mr. Penumbra's 24-Hour Bookstore
Author: Robin Sloan
Stars: 3
Review by: Michelle D
Quirky book about a book store that involves a secret society. Sort of reminded me of The Da Vinci Code. Had a cool premise, but a let-down ending. Still liked it.
Stars: 3
Review by: Michelle D
Quirky book about a book store that involves a secret society. Sort of reminded me of The Da Vinci Code. Had a cool premise, but a let-down ending. Still liked it.
After Shock
Author:
Andrew Vachss
Stars: 2
Review by: BigDa
Determined to finish it. Had to pause a lot along the way to follow the author's meaning. .
Stars: 2
Review by: BigDa
Determined to finish it. Had to pause a lot along the way to follow the author's meaning. .
Breaking the Rules
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I have read this book before a long time ago but I still enjoyed it the second time through. This is the story of Izzy and Gillman and their warped new family. In most previous stories these two characters were almost always trying to beat each other senseless while still working together. A lot of dysfunctional family dynamics is brought into the story and ways to overcome your past. Still a good summer read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
I have read this book before a long time ago but I still enjoyed it the second time through. This is the story of Izzy and Gillman and their warped new family. In most previous stories these two characters were almost always trying to beat each other senseless while still working together. A lot of dysfunctional family dynamics is brought into the story and ways to overcome your past. Still a good summer read.
Into the Fire
Author: Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
Although I realized that I have read this book before, I had forgotten a lot of the story. The main story is about his recovery from an op that went wrong, severely injuring him and killing his wife. Brockmann is a strong suspense and romance writer, but this time I found the background stories more exciting than that of character Vinh Murphy. Still a good summer read.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
Although I realized that I have read this book before, I had forgotten a lot of the story. The main story is about his recovery from an op that went wrong, severely injuring him and killing his wife. Brockmann is a strong suspense and romance writer, but this time I found the background stories more exciting than that of character Vinh Murphy. Still a good summer read.
Killer Honeymoon
Author:
G.A. McKevett
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest installment of the Reid Mystery series and has our new couple on their honeymoon where they watch a person get murdered. Then they are off on a case in normal cozy fashion. The fun part is reading about two independent people in their forties who get married and now have to live together. Fun summer read.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Saraswati
This is the latest installment of the Reid Mystery series and has our new couple on their honeymoon where they watch a person get murdered. Then they are off on a case in normal cozy fashion. The fun part is reading about two independent people in their forties who get married and now have to live together. Fun summer read.
To Brie or Not to Brie
Author:
Avery Aames
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
I've enjoyed others in this Cheese Shop Mystery series more than this one--characters seemed too unbelievable suddenly, and it just didn't measure up to previous books of the series.
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
I've enjoyed others in this Cheese Shop Mystery series more than this one--characters seemed too unbelievable suddenly, and it just didn't measure up to previous books of the series.
The Eye of God
Author:
Marianne S.
Stars: 4
Review by: James Rollins
Dark matter and killer asteroids, punctuated with lots of action sequences. A fun beach read.
Stars: 4
Review by: James Rollins
Dark matter and killer asteroids, punctuated with lots of action sequences. A fun beach read.
Unseen
Author:
Karin Slaughter
Stars: 5
Review by: esjro
This is one of my favorite books in one of my favorite series. It was very suspenseful - if I did not have a job I would have read it in one sitting! Lena is back!
Stars: 5
Review by: esjro
This is one of my favorite books in one of my favorite series. It was very suspenseful - if I did not have a job I would have read it in one sitting! Lena is back!
Steaming into a Victorian Future: A Steampunk Anthology
Author:
Julie Anne Taddeo & Cynthia J. Miller, Eds.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
A collection of scholarly pieces on Steampunk, dealing more with the subculture than the fictional genre. I found the anthropologists' essays utterly fascinating, having attended Steampunk gatherings personally. While probably not to everyone's tastes, I would recommend it to anyone wanting to get a better handle on what "this Steampunk business is." (Thanks to my son's 4-H public presentation judges for that quote!)
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
A collection of scholarly pieces on Steampunk, dealing more with the subculture than the fictional genre. I found the anthropologists' essays utterly fascinating, having attended Steampunk gatherings personally. While probably not to everyone's tastes, I would recommend it to anyone wanting to get a better handle on what "this Steampunk business is." (Thanks to my son's 4-H public presentation judges for that quote!)
The King's Deception
Author:
Steve Berry
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
Cotton Malone to the rescue -- again. Lots of action, and what more do you really need from a summer thriller?
Stars: 3
Review by: Marianne S.
Cotton Malone to the rescue -- again. Lots of action, and what more do you really need from a summer thriller?
The Ocean at the End of the Lane
Author:
Neil Gaiman
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Gaiman has done it again. A very short book which packs a very big emotional wallop. I've read reviews which call it frightening, but I didn't find it so.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Gaiman has done it again. A very short book which packs a very big emotional wallop. I've read reviews which call it frightening, but I didn't find it so.
The Long War
Author:
Terry Pratchett & Stephen Baxter
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Second book of the Long Earth series. In spite of being able to access millions of alternate Earths by "stepping," humanity retains many of its faults, with bad consequences for other sapient species.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
Second book of the Long Earth series. In spite of being able to access millions of alternate Earths by "stepping," humanity retains many of its faults, with bad consequences for other sapient species.
The Cats of Tanglewood Forest
Author:
Charles de Lint
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
A delightful expansion of the story from the author's picture book, A Circle of Cats, with new art from Charles Vess. A wonderful fairytale for all ages.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marianne S.
A delightful expansion of the story from the author's picture book, A Circle of Cats, with new art from Charles Vess. A wonderful fairytale for all ages.
The Aviator's Wife
Author:
Melanie Benjamin
Stars: 3
Review by: P. Reads
This book was a good read; at times I had to remember it was fiction. It about the life of Anne Morrow Lindbergh from the time she meets Charles until his death.
Stars: 3
Review by: P. Reads
This book was a good read; at times I had to remember it was fiction. It about the life of Anne Morrow Lindbergh from the time she meets Charles until his death.
Maisie Dobbs
Author:
Jacqueline Winspear
Stars: 4
Review by: P. Reads
A friend recommended this because I like historical fiction. It takes place around the time of WWI in England. I enjoyed the book and was happy to discover, after reading it, that it is a series of books so I will read some other Maisie Dobbs books.
Stars: 4
Review by: P. Reads
A friend recommended this because I like historical fiction. It takes place around the time of WWI in England. I enjoyed the book and was happy to discover, after reading it, that it is a series of books so I will read some other Maisie Dobbs books.
Life After Life
Author:
Kate Atkinson
Stars: 5
Review by: Marybeth
Life After Life is fascinating, engrossing, and one of those books you don't want to end. The story of Ursula and her family is set against the backdrop of World War II and the historical element rooted the story in a reality that is challenged by the intricacies of fate and the age old question of "what if?" I so much enjoyed the twists and turns of the story as fate both intervenes and is manipulated throughout.
Stars: 5
Review by: Marybeth
Life After Life is fascinating, engrossing, and one of those books you don't want to end. The story of Ursula and her family is set against the backdrop of World War II and the historical element rooted the story in a reality that is challenged by the intricacies of fate and the age old question of "what if?" I so much enjoyed the twists and turns of the story as fate both intervenes and is manipulated throughout.
Barefoot Contessa Foolproof: Recipes You Can Trust
Author:
Ina Garten
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Another great offering if you love cooking.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Another great offering if you love cooking.
Barefoot Contessa Back to Basics: Fabulous Flavor from Simple Ingredients
Author:
Ina Garten
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Great recipes and lovely pictures.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Great recipes and lovely pictures.
50 Greatest Love Letters of All Time
Author:
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Only a romantic would enjoy.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Only a romantic would enjoy.
I am the Mother of Sons
Author:
Jayne Jaudon Ferrer
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
I loved this book! Memories of raising boys.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
I loved this book! Memories of raising boys.
Book of Decorative Painting
Author:
Priscilla Hauser
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Decorative painting is one of my passions. I love this book.
Stars: 5
Review by: Woman on the Go
Decorative painting is one of my passions. I love this book.
And The Mountains Echoed
Author:
Khaled Hossein
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy
I read a review on the blog that wasn't favorable, but I really enjoyed this book and the connections between the characters. He is an excellent writer and great at sharing his culture.
Stars: 5
Review by: Judy
I read a review on the blog that wasn't favorable, but I really enjoyed this book and the connections between the characters. He is an excellent writer and great at sharing his culture.
The Darien Disaster
Author:
John Prebble
Stars: 1
Review by: Mandy A
Disaster indeed. An account of a Scots colony outside the Isthmus of Panama in 1698-1700 that had some extremely bad misfortune in terms of invasion, disease, and numerous shipwrecks carrying intended residents or relief supplies for them. It was so, so incredibly dull and spent way too much time in the background of individuals concerned, over 100 pages. By then there wasn't enough space left to really account for what happened without making the book overly large and the last half just seemed too rushed.
Stars: 1
Review by: Mandy A
Disaster indeed. An account of a Scots colony outside the Isthmus of Panama in 1698-1700 that had some extremely bad misfortune in terms of invasion, disease, and numerous shipwrecks carrying intended residents or relief supplies for them. It was so, so incredibly dull and spent way too much time in the background of individuals concerned, over 100 pages. By then there wasn't enough space left to really account for what happened without making the book overly large and the last half just seemed too rushed.
Tuesday, July 16, 2013
Silence of the Llamas
Author:
Anne Canadeo
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
Fun. If you've been reading this knit shop mystery series, you know what to expect--if you've enjoyed them, this one won't disappoint.
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
Fun. If you've been reading this knit shop mystery series, you know what to expect--if you've enjoyed them, this one won't disappoint.
Vegan Lunch Box
Author:
Jennifer McCann
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
I don't usually review cookbooks, since I'm never sure if they really count as reading, but thought I'd give a heads up to anyone thinking about checking this one out. If you're a vegan who is into processed products to mimic real meat, this may be a great find for you. If you're looking for whole food, plant based, interesting alternatives to meat (but not soy made to look like deli meat), this is not going to be your book. Disappointing.
Not only was I overwhelmed with the use of fake meat products, defrosted frozen vegetable medley isn't something that is going to cut it as an appealing lunch to either of my kids. Although they may be nutritionally sound, there's nothing tasty or interesting about them--and I certainly don't need a cookbook to tell me how to defrost them!
Stars: 2
Review by: L.Z.
I don't usually review cookbooks, since I'm never sure if they really count as reading, but thought I'd give a heads up to anyone thinking about checking this one out. If you're a vegan who is into processed products to mimic real meat, this may be a great find for you. If you're looking for whole food, plant based, interesting alternatives to meat (but not soy made to look like deli meat), this is not going to be your book. Disappointing.
Not only was I overwhelmed with the use of fake meat products, defrosted frozen vegetable medley isn't something that is going to cut it as an appealing lunch to either of my kids. Although they may be nutritionally sound, there's nothing tasty or interesting about them--and I certainly don't need a cookbook to tell me how to defrost them!
Pandora's Lunchbox
Author:
Melanie Warner
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A good read for anyone who eats...although it may make you really re-think what you're eating!
Stars: 4
Review by: L.Z.
A good read for anyone who eats...although it may make you really re-think what you're eating!
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Friday, July 12, 2013
Anyone But You
Author:
Jennifer Crusie
Stars: 4
Review by: KM
Perfect beach read, quick and delightful, like a chocolate ice cream bonbon! Added plus is the dog focus if you're a dog lover---he's integral to the story.
Stars: 4
Review by: KM
Perfect beach read, quick and delightful, like a chocolate ice cream bonbon! Added plus is the dog focus if you're a dog lover---he's integral to the story.
The Evil Inside
Author:
Heather Graham
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
It's fun reading a spooky book about real places that interweaves historical events. This story takes place in Salem, where I visited in June. Of course it touches on the Witch Trials, ghosts,and things that go bump in the night. But a crime needs to be solved and the obvious suspect is innocent!
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
It's fun reading a spooky book about real places that interweaves historical events. This story takes place in Salem, where I visited in June. Of course it touches on the Witch Trials, ghosts,and things that go bump in the night. But a crime needs to be solved and the obvious suspect is innocent!
Cat's Claw
Author:
Susan Wittig Albert
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
The cop's side of investigating these kind of mysteries.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
The cop's side of investigating these kind of mysteries.
Time Flies
Author:
Claire Cook
Stars: 5
Review by: Gypsy P
I love Claire Cook ~ she's a wonderful author and her books are the perfect summer/beach reads. This book was one of my favorite Claire Cook books ~ highly recommend to take it along on your next beach trip.
Stars: 5
Review by: Gypsy P
I love Claire Cook ~ she's a wonderful author and her books are the perfect summer/beach reads. This book was one of my favorite Claire Cook books ~ highly recommend to take it along on your next beach trip.
Someday, Someday, Maybe
Author:
Lauren Graham
Stars: 2
Review by: Beachreader
Franny Banks tells of the struggles of being a young actress in New York, and trying to find her way. Her father wants her to come home after three years of trying, but Franny keeps believing she might get what she came for: to become a actress.
Stars: 2
Review by: Beachreader
Franny Banks tells of the struggles of being a young actress in New York, and trying to find her way. Her father wants her to come home after three years of trying, but Franny keeps believing she might get what she came for: to become a actress.
Big Brother
Author:
Lionel Shriver
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Tartu
I love her writing, but felt cheated by the "big reveal", though it did more for character development than anything else in the novel.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Tartu
I love her writing, but felt cheated by the "big reveal", though it did more for character development than anything else in the novel.
Angel Mine
Author:
Sherryl Woods
Stars: 3
Review by: Beachreader
Heather Reed after trying to raise her daughter Angel for three years on her own decides she needs help. She decides to leave New York where she worked as an actress and find Angel's father. Todd Winston Angel's father does not meet them with open arms.
Stars: 3
Review by: Beachreader
Heather Reed after trying to raise her daughter Angel for three years on her own decides she needs help. She decides to leave New York where she worked as an actress and find Angel's father. Todd Winston Angel's father does not meet them with open arms.
The Hit
Author:
David Baldacci
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Makes one wonder about the clandestine activities of our "trusted" government.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
Makes one wonder about the clandestine activities of our "trusted" government.
Defending Jacob
Author:
William Landay
Stars: 5
Review by: Carol
Real page turner with a most surprising ending.
Stars: 5
Review by: Carol
Real page turner with a most surprising ending.
Into the Storm
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Having both the SEAL team and a private team combat a serial killer makes for a good read. Although, I realized this is my second time through, there were parts I was really glad to re-read. Enjoy!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Having both the SEAL team and a private team combat a serial killer makes for a good read. Although, I realized this is my second time through, there were parts I was really glad to re-read. Enjoy!
When Tony Met Adam & Beginnings and Ends
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Two short story e-books from Brockmann used as interludes to the next big story. Again, if you can not understand love at all levels then these are not the stories for you. But Brockmann writes very strong love scenes and she very much supports her gay son. These shorts make you know what love is. Enjoy!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Two short story e-books from Brockmann used as interludes to the next big story. Again, if you can not understand love at all levels then these are not the stories for you. But Brockmann writes very strong love scenes and she very much supports her gay son. These shorts make you know what love is. Enjoy!
Force of Nature
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Again, an awesome re-read. I missed so much the first time. The relationship writing is very strong even if the story is a repeat, in some ways. Loved it the second time too!
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
Again, an awesome re-read. I missed so much the first time. The relationship writing is very strong even if the story is a repeat, in some ways. Loved it the second time too!
Where There Is a Witch There Is a Way
Author:
Madelyn Alt
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I had this book on the shelf and realized I read it before after a chapter or two. Still a neat read. Getting our characters in place for the big story is nice. Get to see true love in action.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I had this book on the shelf and realized I read it before after a chapter or two. Still a neat read. Getting our characters in place for the big story is nice. Get to see true love in action.
Hot Target
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
After starting this book I realized I have read it before, but only remembered parts. Still a great read and entry to Brockmann's world. Love is love. She writes very strong and it is cool to re-read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
After starting this book I realized I have read it before, but only remembered parts. Still a great read and entry to Brockmann's world. Love is love. She writes very strong and it is cool to re-read.
Heading For Trouble
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is her latest book that is filled with short stories that were included with other books. Again, she really supports her gay son so if you are not into alternative lifestyles, I would stay away. If you are into intense love stories with military suspense, then these are on the top. The funniest part is the author having a conversation with her characters. I know this is going through her mind and it is so cool to think we can actually be there. This lead me to read a bunch of her previous released books since its been so long.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is her latest book that is filled with short stories that were included with other books. Again, she really supports her gay son so if you are not into alternative lifestyles, I would stay away. If you are into intense love stories with military suspense, then these are on the top. The funniest part is the author having a conversation with her characters. I know this is going through her mind and it is so cool to think we can actually be there. This lead me to read a bunch of her previous released books since its been so long.
Matilda
Author:
Roald Dahl
Stars: 5
Review by: Mandy A
Probably one of my favorite books ever and that's pretty big since I first read it over 25 years ago. Matilda is a precocious 5 year old with mentally abusive parents who belittle her intelligence and kindness. She finds refuge in her local library and her first form teacher, Miss Honey, a kind but sad young woman. Matilda becomes determined to help her teacher at any cost when she discovers her school's feared headmistress raised her in a way much like she is. Supposedly inspired by Stephen King's Carrie but directed to younger readers and very positive.
Stars: 5
Review by: Mandy A
Probably one of my favorite books ever and that's pretty big since I first read it over 25 years ago. Matilda is a precocious 5 year old with mentally abusive parents who belittle her intelligence and kindness. She finds refuge in her local library and her first form teacher, Miss Honey, a kind but sad young woman. Matilda becomes determined to help her teacher at any cost when she discovers her school's feared headmistress raised her in a way much like she is. Supposedly inspired by Stephen King's Carrie but directed to younger readers and very positive.
Human Game: The True Story of the "Great Escape" Murders & the Hunt for the Gestapo Gunmen
Author:
Simon Read
Stars: 1
Review by: Mandy A
About the murders of almost 50 men who were executed on Hitler's direct orders after being recaptured from the infamous Great Escape. It was just so blasted dull. Book was short to begin with and the author had a tendency to veer between melodrama and academics so without a focus in tone the pace really suffered.
Stars: 1
Review by: Mandy A
About the murders of almost 50 men who were executed on Hitler's direct orders after being recaptured from the infamous Great Escape. It was just so blasted dull. Book was short to begin with and the author had a tendency to veer between melodrama and academics so without a focus in tone the pace really suffered.
Some Like It Hot: A Cat Deluca Mystery
Author:
K.J. Larsen
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Third book in this series written by three sisters. Every once in a while I get the feeling of which sister had which sister. This was still a fun read with the cozy expectations and more. I hope I get to catch their next book next summer. A cool summer read!
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
Third book in this series written by three sisters. Every once in a while I get the feeling of which sister had which sister. This was still a fun read with the cozy expectations and more. I hope I get to catch their next book next summer. A cool summer read!
Slow Burn: A Photodocument of Centralia, Pennsylvania
Author:
Renee Jacobs
Stars: 2
Review by: Mandy A
A series of photos with short captions chronicling Centralia, a PA town where an underground coal fire left unchecked caused mine collapses and gas leakage. Odd thing is the town became very divided between those that denied there were no risks of any kind to the fire and those who left out of health concerns or some other reason. The photos weren't the best either and it didn't really get into the whole debate of should or should not the town have been abandoned. For just a simple thing like this the Images of America book on Centralia is much, much better.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mandy A
A series of photos with short captions chronicling Centralia, a PA town where an underground coal fire left unchecked caused mine collapses and gas leakage. Odd thing is the town became very divided between those that denied there were no risks of any kind to the fire and those who left out of health concerns or some other reason. The photos weren't the best either and it didn't really get into the whole debate of should or should not the town have been abandoned. For just a simple thing like this the Images of America book on Centralia is much, much better.
At Home in Renaissance Italy
Author:
Flora Dennis & Marta Ajmar
Stars: 3
Review by: Mandy A
A little dry at times for a large coffee table style book, but plenty of well-presented photos and illustrations.
Stars: 3
Review by: Mandy A
A little dry at times for a large coffee table style book, but plenty of well-presented photos and illustrations.
Florentine Histories
Author:
Niccolo Machiavelli
Stars: 2
Review by: Mandy A
Wouldn't recommend it unless you were really into the subject as the author's style is uncharacteristically dull here. Just very dry and also only really focused on history during his lifetime.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mandy A
Wouldn't recommend it unless you were really into the subject as the author's style is uncharacteristically dull here. Just very dry and also only really focused on history during his lifetime.
Horseshoe Crabs and Velvet Worms
Author:
Richard Fortey
Stars: 4
Review by: Mandy A
A short life history of several species that have survived almost unchanged since prehistoric times or earlier. Mostly the horseshoe crabs, with also parts on the worms, coelacanth, musk ox, and various others.
Stars: 4
Review by: Mandy A
A short life history of several species that have survived almost unchanged since prehistoric times or earlier. Mostly the horseshoe crabs, with also parts on the worms, coelacanth, musk ox, and various others.
A Field Guide to Getting Lost
Author:
Rebecca Solnit
Stars: 4
Review by: kayaker
Solnit is a historian with a flair for the counter factual. For instance, she tells us that she became a historian to find the truth since it was an 'elusive entity' during her childhood. However, she goes on to say that the pursuit of knowledge with that element of truth is always a pursuit because the more you think you know the more you have to go for that knowledge. Ignorance is the limiting element.
Solnit's perspective on most of the topics in this book are turned upside down to get at the other side of the expected and widely held beliefs. She urges us to stop thinking that we know what will happen in the next hour, the afternoon, the next morning because we don't and, even if we did, Solnit proposes that we might not know if we can deal with what will happen. Each essay contains one or two, sometimes three, nuggets of interest that made me stop to think a bit harder about my own beliefs.
Stars: 4
Review by: kayaker
Solnit is a historian with a flair for the counter factual. For instance, she tells us that she became a historian to find the truth since it was an 'elusive entity' during her childhood. However, she goes on to say that the pursuit of knowledge with that element of truth is always a pursuit because the more you think you know the more you have to go for that knowledge. Ignorance is the limiting element.
Solnit's perspective on most of the topics in this book are turned upside down to get at the other side of the expected and widely held beliefs. She urges us to stop thinking that we know what will happen in the next hour, the afternoon, the next morning because we don't and, even if we did, Solnit proposes that we might not know if we can deal with what will happen. Each essay contains one or two, sometimes three, nuggets of interest that made me stop to think a bit harder about my own beliefs.
The Outside World
Author:
Tova Mirvis
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A look at how two Orthodox Jewish families balance belief and assimilation. This story is told with humor and originality.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A look at how two Orthodox Jewish families balance belief and assimilation. This story is told with humor and originality.
Equal of the Sun
Author:
Anita Amirrezvani
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
This story of 16th century Iran is based on the life and politics of Princess Pari Khan Khanoom.
Stars: 3
Review by: Smudge
This story of 16th century Iran is based on the life and politics of Princess Pari Khan Khanoom.
Tuesday, July 9, 2013
The Given Day
Author:
Dennis Lehane
Stars: 4
Review by: Dinah
This book gave a vivid picture of Boston as it existed in the early 1900's. Very enlightening.
Stars: 4
Review by: Dinah
This book gave a vivid picture of Boston as it existed in the early 1900's. Very enlightening.
Wallflower in Bloom
Author:
Claire Cook
Stars: 5
Review by: Gypsy P
Claire Cook is a delight ~ and she didn't disappoint in this book. Perfect summer read...light, easy and entertaining.
Stars: 5
Review by: Gypsy P
Claire Cook is a delight ~ and she didn't disappoint in this book. Perfect summer read...light, easy and entertaining.
The Madness of Mary Lincoln
Author:
Jason Emerson
Stars: 2
Review by: Mandy A
This book is a really good example of wasted potential. Meant to be an examination of the alleged extreme mental illness of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln all it ever manages to do is beat the proverbial dead horse. Newly discovered letters concerning her state of mind are not handled in a completely objective way and subjected to endless streams of psychobabble delivered from a layman's modern prospective. No real analysis or respect, just saying this or that over and over. Lost count of all the times he called Robert Todd Lincoln a "Victorian era gentleman" or the like. For all the shining reviews on back I expected better.
Stars: 2
Review by: Mandy A
This book is a really good example of wasted potential. Meant to be an examination of the alleged extreme mental illness of First Lady Mary Todd Lincoln all it ever manages to do is beat the proverbial dead horse. Newly discovered letters concerning her state of mind are not handled in a completely objective way and subjected to endless streams of psychobabble delivered from a layman's modern prospective. No real analysis or respect, just saying this or that over and over. Lost count of all the times he called Robert Todd Lincoln a "Victorian era gentleman" or the like. For all the shining reviews on back I expected better.
Orphan Train
Author:
Christina Kline
Stars: 5
Review by: bus driver 599
Enjoyable reading. Hard times and the lives of two females.
Stars: 5
Review by: bus driver 599
Enjoyable reading. Hard times and the lives of two females.
The Midwife: a Memoir of Birth, Joy, and Hard Times
Author:
Jennifer Worth
Stars: 5
Review by: bus driver 599
Just like BBC program- with more insight and human feelings.
Stars: 5
Review by: bus driver 599
Just like BBC program- with more insight and human feelings.
Fat Man in a Fur Coat
Author:
Alvin Schwartz
Stars: 1
Review by: BookWorm2
The title refers to what a bear may look like when approached from behind. This book talks about bears in terms of their interactions with humans. I have to say that I was absolutely disgusted by some of the information given. I had no idea how bears were taught to "dance" or how Grizzly Adams caught his bear friends. Not a feel good book. Supposedly geared to kids, but the content is more adult than some YA books.
Stars: 1
Review by: BookWorm2
The title refers to what a bear may look like when approached from behind. This book talks about bears in terms of their interactions with humans. I have to say that I was absolutely disgusted by some of the information given. I had no idea how bears were taught to "dance" or how Grizzly Adams caught his bear friends. Not a feel good book. Supposedly geared to kids, but the content is more adult than some YA books.
More Than It Hurts You
Author:
Darin Strauss
Stars: 2
Review by: Lrizza
This book dealt with Munchausen by proxy, which is very interesting, but the story veered off too much on different parts of the story. I didn't find the chapters about the doctor's father relevant or interesting. The author also focused on the child's father's job, maybe with a little too much boring detail. I wished the book focused more on the Munchausen by proxy storyline.
Stars: 2
Review by: Lrizza
This book dealt with Munchausen by proxy, which is very interesting, but the story veered off too much on different parts of the story. I didn't find the chapters about the doctor's father relevant or interesting. The author also focused on the child's father's job, maybe with a little too much boring detail. I wished the book focused more on the Munchausen by proxy storyline.
Killer Ambition
Author:
Marcia Clark
Stars: 4
Review by: rapidreader
If you like to read about fiction court battles this is the book for you. We all know Marcia Clark from the famous O. J. Simpson case.
Stars: 4
Review by: rapidreader
If you like to read about fiction court battles this is the book for you. We all know Marcia Clark from the famous O. J. Simpson case.
The Tender Bar
Author:
J.R.Moehringer
Stars: 5
Review by: kathyb
Fantastic book. I loved it from start to finish. I highly recommend it.
Stars: 5
Review by: kathyb
Fantastic book. I loved it from start to finish. I highly recommend it.
The Well of Lost Plots
Author:
Jasper Fforde
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
The third in the Thursday Next novels this is another Fforde triumph. This series is about a literary detective that is able to venture inside books. The amazing detail used by Fforde makes this series a true delight to read. Start with book 1 - The Eyre Affair and you will not be sorry!
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
The third in the Thursday Next novels this is another Fforde triumph. This series is about a literary detective that is able to venture inside books. The amazing detail used by Fforde makes this series a true delight to read. Start with book 1 - The Eyre Affair and you will not be sorry!
Sarah's Key
Author:
Tatiana de Rosnay
Stars: 5
Review by: Alicia E
Loved the book - and loved the movie! Tearjerker alert!
Stars: 5
Review by: Alicia E
Loved the book - and loved the movie! Tearjerker alert!
Paris
Author:
Edward Rutherford
Stars: 5
Review by: Alicia E
Made me want to go back to Paris and explore more areas! Wonderful book to enjoy the stories and learn history at the same time!
Stars: 5
Review by: Alicia E
Made me want to go back to Paris and explore more areas! Wonderful book to enjoy the stories and learn history at the same time!
Ghost Soldiers
Author:
Hampton Sides
Stars: 3
Review by: NancyW421
This is an older book, published in 2001, about the rescue of POWs in the Philippines during WWII. At first, it was hard to get into, but as I persevered, I found it interesting and well written. It was well researched, giving true accounts from the men involved, as well as good background for that time and place in history.
Stars: 3
Review by: NancyW421
This is an older book, published in 2001, about the rescue of POWs in the Philippines during WWII. At first, it was hard to get into, but as I persevered, I found it interesting and well written. It was well researched, giving true accounts from the men involved, as well as good background for that time and place in history.
Inferno
Author:
Dan Brown
Stars: 4
Review by: Alicia E
Dan Brown's book was exciting, but not quite as thrilling as his other books.
Stars: 4
Review by: Alicia E
Dan Brown's book was exciting, but not quite as thrilling as his other books.
Killer Honeymoon
Author:
G.A. McKevett
Stars: 3
Review by: mystery lover
I enjoyed this book. It had a few minor twists. The story did not entirely follow the usual mystery outline, for a change.
Stars: 3
Review by: mystery lover
I enjoyed this book. It had a few minor twists. The story did not entirely follow the usual mystery outline, for a change.
Saturday, July 6, 2013
Friday, July 5, 2013
Just Jennifer
Point Doom by Dan Fante (Bourbon Street Books, June, 2013)
After his life as a PI, sometimes enforcer, in New York City
hits rock bottom, JD Fiorella heads back to his childhood home in the Point
Dume section of Malibu where his father reworked film scripts for very little
credit, hating it the entire time. Eight
years after his father’s death, JD finds himself living in Point Dume with his
mother, in AA, trying to put his life back together without alcohol and drugs
this time. He becomes friendly with
Woody and takes a job as a used car salesman with Woody and thinks he might be
able to put his life back into some semblance of order when things start to go
wrong again, and in JD’s life, when things start to go wrong, they go wrong all
the way. After celebrating his first car
sales, JD leaves a restaurant to find his mother’s old Honda set on fire with
no idea who would have a grudge like this against him and assumes it was a
random act. JD agrees to meet Woody at his apartment to
offer some advice on a movie script Woody is writing and finds Woody brutally
murdered, pulling JD back into the life he thought he left in Manhattan. JD quickly becomes a person of interest in
Woody’s murder and promptly loses his job.
Just when he thinks things can’t get any worse, the investigation into
Woody’s murder takes a strange a sinister turn and begins to bring things that
JD thought were in his past into his present threatening any progress he has
made toward a more conventional, sober life.
Dark and gritty, this a book that will be hard to put down even as it is
hard to read because of the graphicness of some of the violence and the raw
honesty with which JD lives his life.
While trying to reform his life, JD makes no attempts to atone for his
past; he is who is and did what he did and can only try to move forward. Disturbing and fascinating at the same time,
JD is not a character who will be easily forgotten.
Just Jennifer
Modern life seems to revolve around time, the lack of it and
the speed of it. As a child, the time
between birthdays seems to drag on forever while the time between the last day
of school and the return shortly after Labor Day speeds by at a startling pace. While many people experience time in a linear
fashion, not everyone does and Hammond, a psychology lecturer, writer and
broadcaster, offers other ways to view time and perhaps change the shape of
it. Using current scientific,
physiological and psychological research, Hammond attempts to explain how we
see time and why we see time differently based on our circumstances. Even the book, arranged in six parts, does
not need to be read in a linear fashion.
Chapters on the illusion of time, why it speeds up for some people and
how we can manage our time better all illustrate how time is a very personal
thing and how we can individually shape how we perceive and use it. Hammond’s easy writing style present the
information in a fascinating manner; reading through this book like having a
discussion with a friend over a cup of coffee.
This is a book that is definitely worth, well, taking the time to read.
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Author:
Mark Haddon
Stars: 4
Review by: Car-Lay
An autistic boy discovers a dog that has been obviously killed. He decides to investigate and his life becomes very complicated. Written in the first person, we learn of his suffering and confusion "through the narrowly focused insights of a boy who hasn't the words to describe his emotional pain."
Stars: 4
Review by: Car-Lay
An autistic boy discovers a dog that has been obviously killed. He decides to investigate and his life becomes very complicated. Written in the first person, we learn of his suffering and confusion "through the narrowly focused insights of a boy who hasn't the words to describe his emotional pain."
Nickeled-and-Dimed To Death
Author:
Denise Swanson
Stars: 3.5
Review by: L.Z.
Same old story--small town girl tried her hand at the big city success, but is back in her small town, penniless except for the fancy car that she couldn't give up, and now solving mysteries and sorting out her love life. Still, its a fun, quick summer read. Can't complain.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: L.Z.
Same old story--small town girl tried her hand at the big city success, but is back in her small town, penniless except for the fancy car that she couldn't give up, and now solving mysteries and sorting out her love life. Still, its a fun, quick summer read. Can't complain.
The Wives of Henry Oades
Author:
Johanna Moran
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Henry & Meg Oades move to New Zealand where Henry has accepted a post as an accountant. Not too long after, Meg and the children are abducted by the Maori and enslaved. After an unsuccessful search, Henry, convinced they are dead, moves to California. When Meg and the children find him several year later, Henry has remarried. Meg and the children move into Henry's new home. This novel is the story of bigamy trials that ensue and the friendship that develops between the two wives. (The author based the story on a law case that may have been a hoax. Nonetheless, the book makes you think about bigamy as a less black-and-white way.)
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Henry & Meg Oades move to New Zealand where Henry has accepted a post as an accountant. Not too long after, Meg and the children are abducted by the Maori and enslaved. After an unsuccessful search, Henry, convinced they are dead, moves to California. When Meg and the children find him several year later, Henry has remarried. Meg and the children move into Henry's new home. This novel is the story of bigamy trials that ensue and the friendship that develops between the two wives. (The author based the story on a law case that may have been a hoax. Nonetheless, the book makes you think about bigamy as a less black-and-white way.)
Domestic Malice
Author:
Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
I cannot expect a cozy mystery such as Murder She Wrote ever rising to the category of "literature" but I am pleased with a trend I see infiltrating this genre. Now within a sanitized murder mystery (no sex, or foul language, little gore) is a social concept that provokes consideration. As the title suggests, the mystery involves a case of domestic abuse. With Cabot Cove as the cozy back drop, serious issues are interwoven in the story itself. It had me write to the author several times; something I don't usually do. I now look to cozies for more than included recipes and quaint history, but thought-provoking social concepts. Something new!
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Jambob
I cannot expect a cozy mystery such as Murder She Wrote ever rising to the category of "literature" but I am pleased with a trend I see infiltrating this genre. Now within a sanitized murder mystery (no sex, or foul language, little gore) is a social concept that provokes consideration. As the title suggests, the mystery involves a case of domestic abuse. With Cabot Cove as the cozy back drop, serious issues are interwoven in the story itself. It had me write to the author several times; something I don't usually do. I now look to cozies for more than included recipes and quaint history, but thought-provoking social concepts. Something new!
Magic Hour
Author:
Kristen Hannah
Stars: 1
Review by: Marybeth
Folks have recommended this author to me on occasion, so I gave her a try. While the writing is well done, the story was ridiculously predictable and quite far-fetched. The story is about a seemingly "feral" child who shows up in a town in the Pacific Northwest and her effect on two sisters who discover her. I don't think I will be reading anything else by her any time soon.
Stars: 1
Review by: Marybeth
Folks have recommended this author to me on occasion, so I gave her a try. While the writing is well done, the story was ridiculously predictable and quite far-fetched. The story is about a seemingly "feral" child who shows up in a town in the Pacific Northwest and her effect on two sisters who discover her. I don't think I will be reading anything else by her any time soon.
The Burgess Boys
Author:
Elizabeth Strout
Stars: 3
Review by: Marybeth
A good story, well written and topical. While Helen's story is not the central aspect, I could very much relate to her comments about having an empty nest and missing the children that were so much a part of her everyday life for so long. "She would linger in the living room for a few moments alone on Christmas Eve, ...tears filled her eyes, and then those Christmases gone."
Stars: 3
Review by: Marybeth
A good story, well written and topical. While Helen's story is not the central aspect, I could very much relate to her comments about having an empty nest and missing the children that were so much a part of her everyday life for so long. "She would linger in the living room for a few moments alone on Christmas Eve, ...tears filled her eyes, and then those Christmases gone."
Aunt Dimity and the Family Tree
Author:
Nancy Atherton
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This has our main character staying home and looking after her father-in-law as he moves to a house nearby. Like all the houses in this story there is a link between the old owners and Aunt Dimity. This is lighter than previous books and feels like a break from a lot of the drama in the past, but it's still an easy, fun summer read.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This has our main character staying home and looking after her father-in-law as he moves to a house nearby. Like all the houses in this story there is a link between the old owners and Aunt Dimity. This is lighter than previous books and feels like a break from a lot of the drama in the past, but it's still an easy, fun summer read.
Treasures of Greece
Author:
Emmanuelle le Pommelet
Stars: 1
Review by: Mandy A
Written and presented in a very odd manner with a reading level somewhere in the middle school range, the book's intent is to showcase icons of Greek art and architecture. It fails on both accounts. Miserably. Very few storied pieces are presented and the photos themselves are rather dull and blurry at times. Not at all impressive.
Stars: 1
Review by: Mandy A
Written and presented in a very odd manner with a reading level somewhere in the middle school range, the book's intent is to showcase icons of Greek art and architecture. It fails on both accounts. Miserably. Very few storied pieces are presented and the photos themselves are rather dull and blurry at times. Not at all impressive.
The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls
Author:
Anton DiSclafani
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
A 16 year old girl gets sent (in disgrace) to a horse riding camp for girls in Georgia during the Depression years. She is a very scandalous young lady! I couldn't put the book down!
Loved it!
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
A 16 year old girl gets sent (in disgrace) to a horse riding camp for girls in Georgia during the Depression years. She is a very scandalous young lady! I couldn't put the book down!
Loved it!
Pennsylvania German Farms, Gardens, and Seeds
Author:
Irwin Richman
Stars: 5
Review by: Mandy A
Utterly delightful. Focusing on PA's Landis Valley area, but covering a much wider swath, it is just what the title says. The agricultural folklore, history, practice, and origins of Pennsylvania German farming and food. Also goes into various pastimes, gender roles and the family, and gives a nice explanation of who the PA Germans are and why many technically aren't even German.
Stars: 5
Review by: Mandy A
Utterly delightful. Focusing on PA's Landis Valley area, but covering a much wider swath, it is just what the title says. The agricultural folklore, history, practice, and origins of Pennsylvania German farming and food. Also goes into various pastimes, gender roles and the family, and gives a nice explanation of who the PA Germans are and why many technically aren't even German.