Author:
Tasha Tudor, Richard Brown, & Barbara Werden
Stars:
5
Review by:Woman on the Go
An accounting of Tasha's life, loves, passions, love for her Corgis, garden, cooking. Her simple country appearance. Wonderful peek into her world. Loved this book.
Tuesday, July 30, 2013
Three Cups of Tea: One Man's Mission to Promote Peace One School at a Time
Author:
Greg Mortenson & David Oliver Relin
Stars: 4
Review by: NancyW421
I really agree with the author's philosophy that educating girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan is a good way to promote peace.
Stars: 4
Review by: NancyW421
I really agree with the author's philosophy that educating girls in Pakistan and Afghanistan is a good way to promote peace.
A Quiet Vendetta
Author:
R.J. Ellory
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Vengeance; violent; vulgar; villainous; verbose.
Stars: 4
Review by: BigDa
Vengeance; violent; vulgar; villainous; verbose.
The Silver Star
Author: Jeannette Walls
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
A very fast summer read, but full of themes too similar to her previous books: a bi-polar mother, neglected kids, small working class town, bad guy.
Stars: 3
Review by: libraryaimee
A very fast summer read, but full of themes too similar to her previous books: a bi-polar mother, neglected kids, small working class town, bad guy.
King Leopold's Ghost
Author:
Adam Hochschild
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
A detailed history of the colonization of the Congo under Leopold of Belgian and the activities that went on. Not for the squeamish as Leopold and his minions were determined to squeeze out every bit of ivory and rubber from the Congo by using "enforced" native labor.
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
A detailed history of the colonization of the Congo under Leopold of Belgian and the activities that went on. Not for the squeamish as Leopold and his minions were determined to squeeze out every bit of ivory and rubber from the Congo by using "enforced" native labor.
Bad Girls of the Silver Screen
Author:
Lottie Da & Jan Alexander
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
Tons of black & white photos. The writing could have used some editing.
At times, it seemed disjointed.
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
Tons of black & white photos. The writing could have used some editing.
At times, it seemed disjointed.
A Different Sun: A Novel of Africa
Author:
Elaine Neil Orr
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
About a white, American 19th century missionary couple in west Africa.
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
About a white, American 19th century missionary couple in west Africa.
Unstuff Your Life
Author:
Andrew Mellen
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
One of those decluttering books. This one is very good (and I have read many). It has no photos/illustrations, just solid info.
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
One of those decluttering books. This one is very good (and I have read many). It has no photos/illustrations, just solid info.
Mission to Paris
Author:
Alan Furst
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
Pre-WWII novel of undercover activities. Written by same author as Spies of Warsaw which was recently on PBS. Hope to read all of his books.
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
Pre-WWII novel of undercover activities. Written by same author as Spies of Warsaw which was recently on PBS. Hope to read all of his books.
Women From the Ankle Down: The Story of Shoes and How They Define Us
Author:
Rachelle Bergstein
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
Title says it all.
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
Title says it all.
Sandstorm
Author: James Rollins
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
One of those rogue government agent type of books, but the setting was good. I have read another of this author's books and hope to read them all.
Stars: 3
Review by: Pam B
One of those rogue government agent type of books, but the setting was good. I have read another of this author's books and hope to read them all.
Atonement
Author:
Ian McEwan
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
Starts off slowly. After I finished the book, I saw the film version. Stayed closely to the story. The scene at Dunkirk was especially moving.
Stars: 4
Review by: Pam B
Starts off slowly. After I finished the book, I saw the film version. Stayed closely to the story. The scene at Dunkirk was especially moving.
Off the Menu
Author: Stacey Ballis
Stars: 2
Review by: Smudge
A little too heavy on romance and too light on cooking.
Stars: 2
Review by: Smudge
A little too heavy on romance and too light on cooking.
Call the Midwife
Author:
Jennifer Worth
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
If you have been watching this series on TV you would recognize the characters. Takes place in England after WW2. A biography. Very good picture of the times.
Stars: 4
Review by: ADAR
If you have been watching this series on TV you would recognize the characters. Takes place in England after WW2. A biography. Very good picture of the times.
The End of the Point
Author:
Elizabeth Graver
Stars: 3
Review by: Barb
Slow moving at first, but a decent tale of a family with summer property on the coast of Massachusetts. The writing is good, and the story takes on the meaning of a family's life.
Stars: 3
Review by: Barb
Slow moving at first, but a decent tale of a family with summer property on the coast of Massachusetts. The writing is good, and the story takes on the meaning of a family's life.
The Golem and the Jinni
Author:
Helene Wecker
Stars: 4
Review by: Carol
Extremely farfetched, but fascinating.
Stars: 4
Review by: Carol
Extremely farfetched, but fascinating.
A Deadly Grind
Author:
Victoria Hamilton
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the first book in this story line. Hamilton is better known for her Historical/Regency romances under her real name. This is the story about a woman that loves vintage kitchen stuff from mixing bowls to furniture. She goes to an estate auction and wins a Hoosier Cabinet. (Never knew what they were named nor what an important role these cabinets played in kitchen history. Didn't realize that kitchen cabinets are a new thing. Furniture like the Hoosier created a space & time savings for hard working women back in the day.) In any cozy there is murder, mystery, romance, deceit and case closed. The story took a little while for me to get into, but it did pick up. Already have book #2 on my wait list.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
This is the first book in this story line. Hamilton is better known for her Historical/Regency romances under her real name. This is the story about a woman that loves vintage kitchen stuff from mixing bowls to furniture. She goes to an estate auction and wins a Hoosier Cabinet. (Never knew what they were named nor what an important role these cabinets played in kitchen history. Didn't realize that kitchen cabinets are a new thing. Furniture like the Hoosier created a space & time savings for hard working women back in the day.) In any cozy there is murder, mystery, romance, deceit and case closed. The story took a little while for me to get into, but it did pick up. Already have book #2 on my wait list.
The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens who made England
Author:
Dan Jones
Stars: 3
Review by: Mandy A
An account of the English ruling family from the kings Henry II to Richard II. Quite readable overall but a bit high handed at times when the author gets on his favorite topics.
Stars: 3
Review by: Mandy A
An account of the English ruling family from the kings Henry II to Richard II. Quite readable overall but a bit high handed at times when the author gets on his favorite topics.
The Irresistible Blueberry Bakeshop & Cafe
Author:
Mary Simses
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
I liked the plot, but didn't like the main character much making it a little hard to enjoy the story and setting.
Stars: 3
Review by: Tartu
I liked the plot, but didn't like the main character much making it a little hard to enjoy the story and setting.
The Book of Secrets
Author:
Elizabeth Joy Arnold
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Tartu
I didn't love the plot, but it was framed using children's books and a code created using childhood books giving it some added interest.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: Tartu
I didn't love the plot, but it was framed using children's books and a code created using childhood books giving it some added interest.
Do You Believe in Magic: The Sense and Nonsense of Alternative Medicine
Author:
Paul A. Offit, M.D.
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
I love every book by this man! He writes very accessible and interesting books on health and medicine. I love that no matter the book topic he can always squeeze in a chapter discrediting Jenny McCarthy!
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
I love every book by this man! He writes very accessible and interesting books on health and medicine. I love that no matter the book topic he can always squeeze in a chapter discrediting Jenny McCarthy!
Born to Bite
Author:
Dorothy Howell
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
This book is an anthology with 3 short stories: Dark Secret by Howell, Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby and Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley. As the title suggests, there are vampires featured in each story; each with the author's take on what it means to be a vampire. As with most short stories these feel rushed and thrown together. Still an OK, mindless, summer read.
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
This book is an anthology with 3 short stories: Dark Secret by Howell, Highland Vampire by Diana Cosby and Never Been Bitten by Erica Ridley. As the title suggests, there are vampires featured in each story; each with the author's take on what it means to be a vampire. As with most short stories these feel rushed and thrown together. Still an OK, mindless, summer read.
What's A Witch to Do?
Author:
Jennifer Harlow
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is a first book in this off-shoot series. This author is known for her F.R.E.A.K.S series about the paranormal. The F.R.E.A.K.S. are minor characters in this mystery. This is a story about a High Priestess that finds out there is a hit being put out on her. Meanwhile she is trying to raise one of her sister's two children and plan a wedding for the other. There is some campy humor and when it gets too Evanovich-like, the author jokes about it - "What would Stephenie Plum do?" She also has time to find love. Fun read and I am looking forward to the next installment.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is a first book in this off-shoot series. This author is known for her F.R.E.A.K.S series about the paranormal. The F.R.E.A.K.S. are minor characters in this mystery. This is a story about a High Priestess that finds out there is a hit being put out on her. Meanwhile she is trying to raise one of her sister's two children and plan a wedding for the other. There is some campy humor and when it gets too Evanovich-like, the author jokes about it - "What would Stephenie Plum do?" She also has time to find love. Fun read and I am looking forward to the next installment.
Song of the River
Author:
Sue Harrison
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Part of a series of books about the people who inhabit Alaska during 6000 BC.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
Part of a series of books about the people who inhabit Alaska during 6000 BC.
Saturday, July 27, 2013
Just Jennifer
Longing of Wayward Girls by Karen Brown (Washington Square
Press, July 2013)
Summers in New England are meant to be lazy, safe days, but
children can often be cruel; a young girl goes missing shortly after Sadie and
her best friend have played what they thought was a harmless trick on Francie,
an event that continues to haunt Sadie twenty years later, living a good life in
the same town, married to a good man with two children. When a man from her past returns to town,
memories of childhood, specifically the events of the summer from when she was
twelve. As Sadie, who looks similar to
Francie and often gets mistaken for her, gets caught up in the past, trying to
assuage the guilt she still feels and trying to ease the pain of the child she
most recently lost, she finds herself doing things she never imagined she would
be capable of, all of which lead to a surprise ending that many will not see
coming. Haunting and familiar at the
same time.
Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand
Author:
Carrie Vaughn
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I thought I had kept up with the series, but found out it moved on without me. This book has Kitty getting married to her ex-lawyer now mate. They decide to elope to Vegas. While there they meet up with very unique acts that include paranormal things beyond Kitty's belief. Intrigue and mayhem ensue. Unfortunately, the strange follows her home. So now onto the next book.
Stars: 3
Review by: Saraswati
I thought I had kept up with the series, but found out it moved on without me. This book has Kitty getting married to her ex-lawyer now mate. They decide to elope to Vegas. While there they meet up with very unique acts that include paranormal things beyond Kitty's belief. Intrigue and mayhem ensue. Unfortunately, the strange follows her home. So now onto the next book.
Safe Haven
Author:
Nicholas Sparks
Stars: 4
Review by: books&beads
Lovely romantic story, held my interest to the end, which had some unique surprises.
Stars: 4
Review by: books&beads
Lovely romantic story, held my interest to the end, which had some unique surprises.
Whiskey Beach
Author:
Nora Roberts
Stars: 2
Review by: Avid reader mom
I'm typically a big Nora Roberts fan, but this book is very slow to start and predictable. It does get better, but I felt it was a bit long for the content amount.
Stars: 2
Review by: Avid reader mom
I'm typically a big Nora Roberts fan, but this book is very slow to start and predictable. It does get better, but I felt it was a bit long for the content amount.
Crazy Love
Author:
Leslie Morgan Steiner
Stars: 5
Review by: Avid reader mom
Excellent book. This book tackles a very tough subject.....domestic violence. It is well written and touches on other family issues. The style of writing makes it easy to be engrossed, so much that I was up until dawn to finish it. I feared that the ending would be disappointing, but it was a realistic finish. This book is a window into domestic violence from the victims point of view. It's great that the author chose a character that is educated and not from what people think would be the perfect storm of the typical victim. Kudos to bringing this subject to light!!!!
Stars: 5
Review by: Avid reader mom
Excellent book. This book tackles a very tough subject.....domestic violence. It is well written and touches on other family issues. The style of writing makes it easy to be engrossed, so much that I was up until dawn to finish it. I feared that the ending would be disappointing, but it was a realistic finish. This book is a window into domestic violence from the victims point of view. It's great that the author chose a character that is educated and not from what people think would be the perfect storm of the typical victim. Kudos to bringing this subject to light!!!!
Just Jennifer
Accused: A Rosato & Associates Novel by Lisa Scottoline (St.
Martin’s Press, October 29, 2013)
Mary Dinuzio has just been promoted to partner at her
Philadelphia law firm and for her first case is presented with a very unusual
client with a very unusual request.
Precocious thirteen-year-old Allegra Gardner, daughter of one of
Philadelphia’s most powerful families has come to Rosato and Dinuzio to hire
them to prove that the man in prison for her sister’s murder six years earlier
is innocent. Lonnie Stall, who was
rumored to have been stalking Fiona and was seen fleeing the cocktail party
where Fiona was killed, covered in blood.
Allegra’s parents are against the investigation and do everything they
can to stop her from hiring the law firm, but Rosato & Associates have
always taken the cases of the underdog, and Allegra has access to a trust fund
and Mary Dinuzio is willing to take on one of the most powerful families as her
first opponents as a partner, she just hopes this decision will not make it her
last. Fast-paced and fun, Accused is filled with wonderful
characters from Mary’s very Italian extended family to the upright and proper to
the women with attitude at Rosato and Associates. The plot is breezy and fast-paced with just
the right amount of twists and turns and humor to make a quick, enjoyable read
with a surprise ending.
Summer at Tiffany
Author:
Marjorie Hart
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A true account of two women from Iowa who find summer jobs at Tiffany & Co. As the first women on Tiffany's sales floor, the author offers insights into Tiffany and New York in 1945.
Stars: 4
Review by: Smudge
A true account of two women from Iowa who find summer jobs at Tiffany & Co. As the first women on Tiffany's sales floor, the author offers insights into Tiffany and New York in 1945.
To Heaven and Back: A Doctor's Extraordinary Account of Her Death, Heaven, Angels, and Life Again: A True Story
Author:
Mary C. Neal, M.D.
Stars: 2
Review by: Bookworm
She writes about God, how He loves us, which is true, but what about Jesus? I feel that we need a personal relationship with Him, also.
Stars: 2
Review by: Bookworm
She writes about God, how He loves us, which is true, but what about Jesus? I feel that we need a personal relationship with Him, also.
Nearing Home: Life, Faith, and Finishing Well
Author:
Billy Graham
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
What a wonderful book this is. It gives us hope for the future. Joy can be ours as we age if we place our faith in Jesus.
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
What a wonderful book this is. It gives us hope for the future. Joy can be ours as we age if we place our faith in Jesus.
The Struggle
Author:
Wanda E. Brunstetter
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
I couldn't put it down. It was wonderful. I look forward to her other books. It's about the wonderful Amish People. This woman - Hannah - suffered, but in the end found joy and peace.
Stars: 5
Review by: Bookworm
I couldn't put it down. It was wonderful. I look forward to her other books. It's about the wonderful Amish People. This woman - Hannah - suffered, but in the end found joy and peace.
A Bear Called Paddington
Author:
Michael Bond
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
An adorable children's classic. So nice to release the inner child to a story as sweet and heart-warming as this!
Stars: 5
Review by: BookWorm2
An adorable children's classic. So nice to release the inner child to a story as sweet and heart-warming as this!
The Bridgertons: Happily Ever After
Author:
Julia Quinn
Stars: 4
Review by: Rebecca S.
The perfect ending.
Stars: 4
Review by: Rebecca S.
The perfect ending.
Half Priced Homicide
Author:
Elaine Viets
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is one of the latest in this series. It was a nice change from the way the original cozy started. This book actually had an...ending (read for yourself.) There is still more to tell so on my waiting list they go.
Stars: 4
Review by: Saraswati
This is one of the latest in this series. It was a nice change from the way the original cozy started. This book actually had an...ending (read for yourself.) There is still more to tell so on my waiting list they go.
Unstoppable
Author:
Suzanne Brockmann
Stars: 2.5
Review by: Saraswati
This is one of her recently republished books. It contains two previous stories in one book: Love with a Proper Stranger and Letters to Kelly. I liked the Stranger story better because it didn't reek of being like Diana Palmer. However, reading the Author's note, Letters was her favorite. Both are easy reading and semi-intense. After reading many of her books, I can now tell that these were her entry level titles and it's nice to see how things grew from there.
Stars: 2.5
Review by: Saraswati
This is one of her recently republished books. It contains two previous stories in one book: Love with a Proper Stranger and Letters to Kelly. I liked the Stranger story better because it didn't reek of being like Diana Palmer. However, reading the Author's note, Letters was her favorite. Both are easy reading and semi-intense. After reading many of her books, I can now tell that these were her entry level titles and it's nice to see how things grew from there.
Tote Bags and Toe Tags
Author:
Dorothy Howell
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
I read earlier books in this series and hoped the main character would grow up - just a little...Sigh, but no. "Homer Simpson" syndrome comes to mind. I do little, stuff fall into my lap, I still live OK but I need to complain because it's not good enough. The whining about just working, not even hard work, makes me a little sick. Thank goodness for the side characters and stories. Like a moth to a flame, I keep reading the next one hoping I don't get burned. If you can handle campy, whining then this is a fun summer read.
Stars: 2
Review by: Saraswati
I read earlier books in this series and hoped the main character would grow up - just a little...Sigh, but no. "Homer Simpson" syndrome comes to mind. I do little, stuff fall into my lap, I still live OK but I need to complain because it's not good enough. The whining about just working, not even hard work, makes me a little sick. Thank goodness for the side characters and stories. Like a moth to a flame, I keep reading the next one hoping I don't get burned. If you can handle campy, whining then this is a fun summer read.
Dear Lucy
Author:
Julie Sarkissian
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Author's first novel. Very strange concept, but I had to finish it.
Stars: 3
Review by: ADAR
Author's first novel. Very strange concept, but I had to finish it.
Tommy Land
Author:
Tommy Lee with Anthony Bozza
Stars: 4
Review by: Gypsy P
I was surprised by this book. It started out slightly raunchy ~ ok, actually more downright vulgar. But by the end I had a new understanding and respect for the man/musician, Tommy Lee. Enjoyed it. Not for the faint of heart.
Stars: 4
Review by: Gypsy P
I was surprised by this book. It started out slightly raunchy ~ ok, actually more downright vulgar. But by the end I had a new understanding and respect for the man/musician, Tommy Lee. Enjoyed it. Not for the faint of heart.
Long Division
Author:
Jane Berentson
Stars: 4
Review by: Lrizza
If it weren't for the footnotes, I probably would've given this book 5 stars. I don't know why authors do that. It was a bit distracting. But it was a cute, funny, light story. Identified with the character in many ways.
Stars: 4
Review by: Lrizza
If it weren't for the footnotes, I probably would've given this book 5 stars. I don't know why authors do that. It was a bit distracting. But it was a cute, funny, light story. Identified with the character in many ways.
Bad Dog (A Love Story)
Author:
Martin Kihn
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Very entertaining--especially if you have a Bernese mountain dog.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: syd
Very entertaining--especially if you have a Bernese mountain dog.
The Paris Wife
Author:
Paula McLain
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Car-Lay
This is the story, in her voice, of Ernest Hemingway's first wife, Hadley Richardson, and their time together, mostly in Paris during the 1920's. They were the "Golden couple" in with the lively group including Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. But Hadley was not prepared for the fast-living and free-loving life style of Paris and Spain. "This is the heartbreaking portrayal of love and torn loyalty." Although a work of fiction, the narrative is supposedly faithful to known facts.
Stars: 4.5
Review by: Car-Lay
This is the story, in her voice, of Ernest Hemingway's first wife, Hadley Richardson, and their time together, mostly in Paris during the 1920's. They were the "Golden couple" in with the lively group including Gertrude Stein, Ezra Pound, and F. Scott Fitzgerald. But Hadley was not prepared for the fast-living and free-loving life style of Paris and Spain. "This is the heartbreaking portrayal of love and torn loyalty." Although a work of fiction, the narrative is supposedly faithful to known facts.
We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves
Author:
Karen Joy Fowler
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
An amazing book about a family told from the youngest daughter's perspective. She has a brother and a sister, both of whom leave the family when she is still young. Her sister is not a typical sister, but you don't learn that until halfway through the book. I loved every minute of it! Quirky and fascinating.
Stars: 5
Review by: libraryaimee
An amazing book about a family told from the youngest daughter's perspective. She has a brother and a sister, both of whom leave the family when she is still young. Her sister is not a typical sister, but you don't learn that until halfway through the book. I loved every minute of it! Quirky and fascinating.
The Good Thief's Guide to Amsterdam
Author:
Chris Ewan
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
More a guide to his meandering mind.
Stars: 3
Review by: BigDa
More a guide to his meandering mind.
Just Jennifer
Mother, Mother by Karen Zailckas (Crown, September 17, 2013)
Josephine Hurst has her life, and her family under control,
though not in a good way. She is home
schooling her son Will who is a genius, but has been recently diagnosed with
Aspergers and epilepsy, has all but given up on her idle daughter Violet who
has been experimenting with Eastern philosophies and ways of life and dabbling
in a some herbal, hallucinogenic drugs and is pretending that it is normal that
her older daughter Rose has run away from the family to live with her
boyfriend, estranging herself from the family.
Josephine has just committed Violet to a psych ward claiming Violet attacked
Will; Violet knows she had taken some bad seeds, but also knows there is no way
she would ever harm her brother and works hard to regain control so she can
leave the hospital. Her father is no
help as he has begun heavily drinking and is possibly involved with another
woman. Salvation appears imminent as
Violet begins receiving letters from Rose promising that Violet can come and
live with her and her boyfriend in New York.
As Violet begins to investigate Rose’s whereabouts, added by social
services who were called in after the attack on Will, she becomes drawn into a
web of lies and psychological abuse that she could never imagined. She knows the perfect family façade that
Josephine has created is non-existent, but she has no idea just how twisted her
mother is and to what lengths she will go to protect her image of a perfect
family. Deeply disturbing with twists
and turns, Mother, Mother will have
readers thinking they know the solution, but a final twist proves even more
unsettling than imagined. A disturbing
first novel by the author of the dysfunctional memoir Smashed.
Just Jennifer
The Wrong Girl by Hank Phillippi Ryan (Forge Books,
September 10, 2013)
In the second suspense novel to feature Boston newspaper
reporter Jane Ryland and detective Jake Brogan, are both investigating cases
involving adoption and the foster care system, cases that would seem completely
disparate but take make interesting and unexpected twists and turns that force
the two back into an uneasy working relationship that could cost both of them
their jobs if their superiors were to learn the two are also lovers. Jane has been approached by her friend Tinker
who has recently been reunited with a woman whom the adoption agency says is
Tinker’s birth mother, but whom Tinker is doubtful of because of things her
adopted mother told her. With Jane’s
help, Tinker returns to the adoption agency where the two begin to ask
questions and Jane begins to suspect that the agency is falsifying records and
purposely reuniting children with the wrong birth parents. In a parallel story, Jake is investigating
the brutal murder of a young woman, leaving two toddlers who he learns are her
foster children. An empty cradle in the
apartment that was the scene of the murder has Jake concerned there is another
child in danger, but the two children are too young to offer much
information. Soon Jake finds himself on
the same trial as Jane, and when Jane begins to receive threatening phone calls,
is almost run off the road, and has her apartment broken into, Jake must
separate his feelings for Jane and keep her safe, knowing that a killer is on
the loose, and onto Jane, and that Jake must find the person before more
people, and innocent children, are hurt.
A compelling suspense novel with the additional layer of how we come to
believe what we are told about our families and how those things become the
truths we base our lives on. Ryan, a journalist, is an impeccable
storyteller, revealing what is necessary at the time, hinting at the rest to
create tension and suspense.
Just Jennifer
The Thinking Woman’s Guide to Real Magic by Emily Croy
Barker (Pamela Dorman Books, August 1, 2013)
Nora Fischer is an ABD (all-but-dissertation) grad student
whose advisor has lost faith in her and whose ex-boyfriend has just invited her
to his upcoming wedding to another woman.
At a weekend getaway, Nora takes a walk through the forest behind the
guest cabin she and her friends are staying in and stumbles upon a glamorous woman,
Ilissa, living in an incredible dream world and finds herself drawn deeper and
deeper into Ilissa’s mysterious and sometimes magical world. Feeling more confident, attractive and
talented than ever, Nora is shocked when Ilissa’s son Raclin proposes marriage
hurtling Nora into an evil world that is not at all the world into which she
was initially drawn; Nora puts all her hope into a reclusive magician called Aruendiel
with whom Nora must join forces and dig deep into her arsenal of knowledge and
learning to escape the clutches of the evil pair and return to the world which
is not seeming so dire and dreary to her all of a sudden. Part fairy tale, part fable part morality
tale, The Thinking Woman’s Guide to Real
Magic is almost allegorical as Nora thinks her present life is in the dumps
and going nowhere until she spends ten months in an unfamiliar and often evil
place missing those people who were driving her crazy and gaining new
perspective on how her life can lived with a new self-confidence if she is able
to return to it.
Just Jennifer
Just What Kind of Mother Are You? By Paula Daly (Grove
Press, September 3, 2013)
We have all had that moment in our lives that we desperately
wish we could have back and change the course of events. Lisa Kallisto has such a moment as her
seemingly perfect life is turned on its end when her best friend’s thirteen-year-old
daughter disappears on her watch. Lisa’s
life is a busy one as she takes care of three busy children and juggles their
never ending schedules, runs a busy animal shelter and tries to give her marriage
the attention it both needs and deserves.
When Lucinda is to spend the night with Lisa’s daughter after school,
but doesn't when Sally stays home from school sick, and vanishes rather than
arriving at either house, she is not reported missing until the next day. Lucinda is the second pre-teen young girl to
vanish in the area, the first escaping and returning after being raped and traumatized,
leaving the tiny Cumbrian village in Northern England in fear for their young
girls. Obsessed with guilt over Lucinda’s
disappearance, Lisa begins her own investigation and as she does, small details
or the families’ lives come to the surface, past transgressions and grudges
begin to emerge as a portrait of less than perfect families comes to light all
leading to a most shocking conclusion.
Adding to the depths of this chilling and all too real feeling novel is
the personal life of the Detective Constable Joanne Aspinall lives with her aunt
and is not just the police woman investigating the crime, but a well-developed
character in her own right. Heart wrenching,
thrilling and eye-opening at once, Just
What Kind of Mother Are You? will have
readers assessing their own lives and remembering to pay attention to the
little things.
Serving Victoria
Author: Kate Hubbard
Stars: 2
Review by:Mandy A
Billed as Life in the Royal Household the book contains, in chronological order, mini biographies of various servants to Queen Victoria and her family. Those hoping for an upstairs downstairs sort of thing though would be greatly disappointed as the book is more a biography of Victoria instead of those that served her. Too little on the people themselves and how they operated.
Stars: 2
Review by:Mandy A
Billed as Life in the Royal Household the book contains, in chronological order, mini biographies of various servants to Queen Victoria and her family. Those hoping for an upstairs downstairs sort of thing though would be greatly disappointed as the book is more a biography of Victoria instead of those that served her. Too little on the people themselves and how they operated.
A Hundred Summers
Author:
Beatriz Williams
Stars: 3
Review by: Marybeth
A Hundred Summers is a quintessential "beach read.' It was pretty predictable, kind of corny, fast reading, but also enjoyable and romantic. It's the story of long time friends whose lives intertwine during a period of 7 years and takes place during the 30's. One caveat - while the author suggests the element of historical fiction in that the hurricane of 1938 that hit New England is mentioned, that element is inconsequential to 98% of the book.
Stars: 3
Review by: Marybeth
A Hundred Summers is a quintessential "beach read.' It was pretty predictable, kind of corny, fast reading, but also enjoyable and romantic. It's the story of long time friends whose lives intertwine during a period of 7 years and takes place during the 30's. One caveat - while the author suggests the element of historical fiction in that the hurricane of 1938 that hit New England is mentioned, that element is inconsequential to 98% of the book.
The Great Gatsby
Author:
F. Scott Fitzgerald
Stars: 4
Review by: Bernie Remaly
I liked it and thought it was much better than the movie.
Stars: 4
Review by: Bernie Remaly
I liked it and thought it was much better than the movie.
The Shop on Blossom Street
Author:
Debbie Macomber
Stars: 5
Review by: Bernie Remaly
I like her books! Just fun reading!
Stars: 5
Review by: Bernie Remaly
I like her books! Just fun reading!
The Good House
Author:
Ann Leary
Stars: 4
Review by: P.Reads
I really enjoyed this book. It is about a middle-aged New England woman who goes through life in denial about her drinking problem.
Stars: 4
Review by: P.Reads
I really enjoyed this book. It is about a middle-aged New England woman who goes through life in denial about her drinking problem.
Friday, July 26, 2013
The City of Akhenaten & Nefertiti: Amarna and its People
Author:
Barry Kemp
Stars: 5
Review by: Mandy A
By far the best comprehensive book on the Egyptian city of
Amarna available now. Abandoned after the death of its "heretic" pharaoh
about 3200 years ago, Amarna was built to celebrate the sun disk, and
featured many architectural innovations (including the first
identifiable us of pre-fabricated building materials / bricks).
Although there isn't much of the town left (I've seen it), Kemp conducts
a very full examination of the main and subsidiary buildings, a period
history, an examination of the region's topography and history, all
sorts of things while being both readable and informative at once. Only
tidbit missing is that it was written weeks before DNA testing confirmed
the mummies of Akhenaten, his son / successor Tutankhamen, and several
other relatives.
Stars: 5
Review by: Mandy A
By far the best comprehensive book on the Egyptian city of
Amarna available now. Abandoned after the death of its "heretic" pharaoh
about 3200 years ago, Amarna was built to celebrate the sun disk, and
featured many architectural innovations (including the first
identifiable us of pre-fabricated building materials / bricks).
Although there isn't much of the town left (I've seen it), Kemp conducts
a very full examination of the main and subsidiary buildings, a period
history, an examination of the region's topography and history, all
sorts of things while being both readable and informative at once. Only
tidbit missing is that it was written weeks before DNA testing confirmed
the mummies of Akhenaten, his son / successor Tutankhamen, and several
other relatives.
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Coast Trail
Author:
Cheryl Strayed
Stars: 2
Review by: BookDancer
Not too wild about Wild! Enjoyed Bill Bryson's Appalachian Trail account much more.
Stars: 2
Review by: BookDancer
Not too wild about Wild! Enjoyed Bill Bryson's Appalachian Trail account much more.
The Light Between Oceans
Author:
M.L.Stedman
Stars: 5
Review by: Barb
I finally got around to reading this book that was recommended
to be in January. It was beautifully written. A young couple lives on an
isolated island off the coast of Australia. When a tiny baby washes on
shore, they make a decision that changes the lives of many. The story is
full of love. A great read.
Stars: 5
Review by: Barb
I finally got around to reading this book that was recommended
to be in January. It was beautifully written. A young couple lives on an
isolated island off the coast of Australia. When a tiny baby washes on
shore, they make a decision that changes the lives of many. The story is
full of love. A great read.
Room
Author:
Emma Donoghue
Stars: 4
Review by: Barb
This was the second time I read this book, for two different
book clubs. It was just as good the second time, and I was able to pick
up on things that puzzled me the first time. A young woman is abducted
and held hostage in a backyard shed where she is raped repeatedly by her
abductor, and gives birth to a baby boy. The love that Ma has for Jack
is dedicated and touching. A good read.
Stars: 4
Review by: Barb
This was the second time I read this book, for two different
book clubs. It was just as good the second time, and I was able to pick
up on things that puzzled me the first time. A young woman is abducted
and held hostage in a backyard shed where she is raped repeatedly by her
abductor, and gives birth to a baby boy. The love that Ma has for Jack
is dedicated and touching. A good read.
The Wolves of Willoughby Chase
Author:
Joan Aiken
Stars: 5
Review by: BookDancer
I missed this children's classic the first time around. Now
that I'm sharing favorite books with my grand-daughter, it's fun to
discover new titles we can both enjoy. This has it all; adventures,
brave heroines, a county manor in England, a wicked governess, and
especially, the wolves at night which prowl and howl when the sun goes
down. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
Stars: 5
Review by: BookDancer
I missed this children's classic the first time around. Now
that I'm sharing favorite books with my grand-daughter, it's fun to
discover new titles we can both enjoy. This has it all; adventures,
brave heroines, a county manor in England, a wicked governess, and
especially, the wolves at night which prowl and howl when the sun goes
down. Looking forward to the next book in the series!
The ABC Murders
Author:
Agatha Christie
Stars: 4
Review by: BookWorm2
A wonderful Poirot mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.
Stars: 4
Review by: BookWorm2
A wonderful Poirot mystery that keeps you guessing until the end.
Tapestry of Fortunes
Author:
Elizabeth Berg
Stars: 3
Review by: Ann M
A little to happily ever after for me.
Stars: 3
Review by: Ann M
A little to happily ever after for me.
Speak
Author:
Laurie Halse Anderson
Stars: 4
Review by: YA Fan
This is the first novel I read by this author, and Chains and
Forged will be my next two. Laurie Halse Anderson received the 2009
Margaret A. Edwards Award honoring her significant and lasting
contribution to writing for teens. When reading this controversial novel
on rape, I felt as though Anderson was handing the reader pieces to a
puzzle that didn't immediately fit together. That's what kept me
reading. "SPEAK is cautionary tale about the emotional aftermath of
rape. It tackles bullying, depression, rape, sexual harassment, and
family dysfunction."-The Author
As a parent, I was most affected by the behavior of the main character's
parents. They were entirely self absorbed, too wrapped up in their
careers to notice that something was drastically wrong with their child.
Neither of them took the time to have a discussion with the main
character, they only talked "at" her.
Although this Young Adult novel was published in 1999 and was a National
Book Award Finalist for Young People's Literature, it is still the topic
of controversy. You can follow this link to read about the controversy
and Anderson's response as of 7/08/2103
http://madwomanintheforest.com/really-again-speak-labelled-pornography/
Stars: 4
Review by: YA Fan
This is the first novel I read by this author, and Chains and
Forged will be my next two. Laurie Halse Anderson received the 2009
Margaret A. Edwards Award honoring her significant and lasting
contribution to writing for teens. When reading this controversial novel
on rape, I felt as though Anderson was handing the reader pieces to a
puzzle that didn't immediately fit together. That's what kept me
reading. "SPEAK is cautionary tale about the emotional aftermath of
rape. It tackles bullying, depression, rape, sexual harassment, and
family dysfunction."-The Author
As a parent, I was most affected by the behavior of the main character's
parents. They were entirely self absorbed, too wrapped up in their
careers to notice that something was drastically wrong with their child.
Neither of them took the time to have a discussion with the main
character, they only talked "at" her.
Although this Young Adult novel was published in 1999 and was a National
Book Award Finalist for Young People's Literature, it is still the topic
of controversy. You can follow this link to read about the controversy
and Anderson's response as of 7/08/2103
http://madwomanintheforest.com/really-again-speak-labelled-pornography/
Wild: From Lost to Found on the Pacific Crest Trail
Author:
Cheryl Strayed
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
I feel like I hiked the Pacific Crest Trail with Cheryl. My feet and back empathize. Cheryl had some bad stuff happen in her life, and she wasn't happy with the direction in which her life was going, so, in her late twenties, she quit her job, moved out of her apartment, and hiked the Trail alone (although she did make some friends along the way). Her memoir is very well written -- you will feel the pain, the hunger, the thirst, and the fear that she felt and overcame. The best part is when she camped by a pond, and what happened when she woke up!
Stars: 4
Review by: Miss Lucy
I feel like I hiked the Pacific Crest Trail with Cheryl. My feet and back empathize. Cheryl had some bad stuff happen in her life, and she wasn't happy with the direction in which her life was going, so, in her late twenties, she quit her job, moved out of her apartment, and hiked the Trail alone (although she did make some friends along the way). Her memoir is very well written -- you will feel the pain, the hunger, the thirst, and the fear that she felt and overcame. The best part is when she camped by a pond, and what happened when she woke up!
12th of Never
Author:
James Patterson
Stars: 4
Review by: Megank102
Great book! This series is uniquely written and really gets
readers thinking. I loved the ending and can't wait until the next book!
Stars: 4
Review by: Megank102
Great book! This series is uniquely written and really gets
readers thinking. I loved the ending and can't wait until the next book!
The Storyteller
Author: Jodi Picoult
Stars: 5
Review by: YA Fan
This was a very informative and thought provoking novel which I did not expect from Jodi Picoult. I was anticipating a light read where I could read quickly, but this had many twists and turns including stories within stories. By allowing the reader into the minds of all of the characters involved, Picoult reminds us of the lessons we may have forgotten or never learned regarding the Holocaust.
Stars: 5
Review by: YA Fan
This was a very informative and thought provoking novel which I did not expect from Jodi Picoult. I was anticipating a light read where I could read quickly, but this had many twists and turns including stories within stories. By allowing the reader into the minds of all of the characters involved, Picoult reminds us of the lessons we may have forgotten or never learned regarding the Holocaust.
Brush with Death
Author:
Karen MacInerney
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
From the Gray Whale Inn Mystery series. Much like her others, a fun read.
Stars: 3
Review by: L.Z.
From the Gray Whale Inn Mystery series. Much like her others, a fun read.
Memoirs of a Geisha
Author:
Arthur Golden
Stars: 5
Review by: Carol
Beautiful! Hard to believe it was written by a man.
Stars: 5
Review by: Carol
Beautiful! Hard to believe it was written by a man.
Red Velvet Cupcake Murder
Author:
Joanne Fluke
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
Good beach reading.
Stars: 3.5
Review by: mystery lover
Good beach reading.
Notorious Nineteen
Author:
Janet Evanovich
Stars: 4
Review by: mysteryfan
I love Janet Evanovich! Reading one of her Stephanie Plum books is a lean back, put your feet up, and relax, perfect summer read, especially for Jersey girls like us.
Stars: 4
Review by: mysteryfan
I love Janet Evanovich! Reading one of her Stephanie Plum books is a lean back, put your feet up, and relax, perfect summer read, especially for Jersey girls like us.
All Through the Night
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.
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.
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?