Adult Summer Reading 2018: What our Community is Reading
Spend your summer reading great books and you could win some fabulous prizes!
Reader Reviews
Looking for some great reads? Check out these recommendations from members of our community.
A Discovery of Witches by
Excellent!
This is the first book of a trilogy. It was recommended to me by my boss. It is not a book I would have chosen, but now I am reading the last book in this trilogy. It is an historical love story between a witch and a vampire. It covers the difficulties they encounter with their families and friends. Plus their adventures to locate a magical book that holds the answer to their past.Behind Closed Doors by
Excellent!
This book was a page-turner from the first chapter. It was about a newly-married couple. Grace and Jack, who seemed to have the perfect life, but their reality was nothing short of horrific. The novel is narrated in first person by Grace, and goes between past and present to weave the story together. It was a great summer read - couldn't put it down!A Court of Frost and Starlight by
Excellent
An amazing new book in the Court of Thorns and Roses series. This book hooked me from the very first page, all the way until the end. The universe that Maas has created is simply amazing!House Rules by
Good!
I enjoyed this book. The characters were very relatable and the mom was amazing. It was a quick and easy read. It's a serious topic where a child with autism is accused of murder, but there are so many funny parts. I was laughing out loud at some parts.The Girl of His Dreams by
Excellent!
This series of books are very, very well written. It's the kind of book that makes you want to get home, so you can read some more!The Bridge on the Drina by
Excellent!
The bridge built centuries ago takes center stage in this story of the people of Bosnia, covering centuries prior to World War I.Jurassic Park by
Good!
The book behind the movies. So much better than the movie.The Secret of the Old Clock by
Excellent!
Go back and read a book from your childhood! What a wonderful experience it was to re-read the first Nancy Drew book, reminding me why I love mysteries so much as an adult.Quietly in Their Sleep by
Excellent!
Another great Commissario Guido Brunetti mystery - takes place in Venice. I love the characters in these mysteries and the flavor of the city that comes through!Murder in Paradise by
Good!
Good book. I really enjoy his short books all in one book. Three quick reads.Gift from the Sea by
Average
The opening chapters were of interest, but the book seemed to be repetitive and I found my interest wavering. Good perspective for women - things we already know but may not think about. Mainly of interest for females.The Last Mrs. Parrish by
Excellent!
At first the book is typical with the theme "it's always greener on someone else's lawn." However, it has a great twist and a great ending. If you liked "Behind Closed Doors," you will like this too, although it's not as dark, but still a great ready Enjoy!The Magnificent Esme Wells by
Good!
A coming of age story set in the 1930s to 1950s, Esme is the daughter of an aspiring movie actress and a crook who dream of bigger things. The story unfolds between the early Hollywood era and the birth of Las Vegas. Movie moguls and gangsters abound as Esme grows up to become the sensation she longed to be. Interesting storytelling intertwined with historical accuracy.How Hard Can It Be? by
Average
This book didn't hold my interest. I did not finish reading it.The Last Kashmiri Rose by
Good!
This mystery was a good introduction to a new series. I enjoyed the Indian atmosphere created by the setting and loved the star detective, Sandilands!The Pearl by
Excellent!
The Pearl is a stunning exploration of the strengths and undeniable flaws of human nature. The novella examines the fates of Kino, Juana, and Coyotito after Kino acquires a "monstrous pearl." Initially celebrated by his neighbors, Kino finds himself forced to defend his family as greed consumes his community.The Family Next Door by
Excellent!
Great mystery! The story focuses on young moms in one neighborhood. Fast paced, kept me intrigued till the end!The Duchess by
Excellent!
Great story. Good balance of conflict and solutions. A sense of irony and unseen twists.The Glitch by
Average
Characters were not well developed. The story had many layers, and at times difficult to follow.Beard in Mind by
Excellent!
A romance novel that features a heroine suffering from OCD. A real and empathetic portrayal of the disease, while still an engaging story. Sweet and thought-provoking.My Side of the Mountain by
Excellent!
I loved this book as a kid, and I love it as an adult. Just read it aloud for the whole family and everyone was entranced.Catch Me by
Excellent!
This book was suspenseful until the very end. The main character, Charlie, escaped a childhood of pain and torture by her mentally ill mother, going to live with her aunt and forgetting most of the horror of her childhood. As an adult, Charlie's best friends were murdered exactly one year apart on January 21st. Convinced that she's next, Charlie went into hiding and trained so she would not go down without a fight. This is one of those novels where everyone is a suspect and you will definitely be shocked throughout. I enjoyed this book and would highly recommend it. Very entertaining summer read - I could not put it down!Before We Were Yours by
Good!
Riveting story based on a true situation concerning adoption.A Discovery of Witches by
Good!
Vampires and witches with demons thrown in, first of a 3 book series. This is a fun summer read that ties science, history, and fantasy together.After Anna by
Excellent!
Exciting and suspenseful. About a widower and a single father who remarries and thinks he's happy. His world falls apart when her daughter moves in. She hasn't seen her daughter since she was a baby. You think the book is going to end one way, never saw that ending coming.Echo by
Excellent!
What a wonderful book! Three stories and a folktale were all woven together with talent and poignancy, linked by a magical harmonica.The Forgotten by
Excellent!
A new author for me. I thought the story line was very thought-provoking. The main character was larger than life. The Forgotten is about human trafficking and how our hero, John Puller, an army CID saves the day. I will be reading more stories by David Baldacci. I find this military genre very interesting and his style of writing intriguing.Gift from the Sea by
Good!
Reading the Gift from the Sea, a beloved classic, will put you in a beach and spiritual mood. I enjoyed the way Anne was able to collect the shells and be able to name them and then write her wisdom around them.This Is How It Always Is by
Good!
What can parents do for their child who is born one sex but prefers the other? The author gives valuable insight to the hurt, sadness. lies, and unknowns the parents and siblings face until an unexpected experience gives them guidance toward how to "choose the left, right, or middle" journey.To Everything There Is a Season by
Good!
A very interesting biography of Pete Seeger. The testimonies in the Afterword summed everything up very well.The Nightmare by
Good!
Suspenseful - plot was a little long (probably due to translation); otherwise, pretty good.Drawing Conclusions by
Excellent!
I've been reading the whole series and this is one of the best yet! They are hard to put down.A Question of Belief by
Excellent!
This whole series is so intelligent and well-written!! They are all a joy to read!The Life She Was Given by
Good!
Story set in the 1930s and 1950s. A young girl is sold to a circus for a freak show. Years later the story begins to unfold.Glass Houses by
Good!
Don't stay out after dark - the vampires come out. Small college town with quirky characters. A story with deep dark secrets and some that are hungry for flesh and blood.The Good Fight by
Excellent!
Reliving the 1960s! This book is about a young woman discovering a passion for justice and of the unsung heroes she encounters along her journey. Great to hear about stuff that marked history.Flight Patterns by
Excellent!
Very good book. I learned a lot about bees and also about fractured families and the importance of family, and what we do for love.Homegoing by
Good!
I love the structure of the book. Telling the story of generations in Africa and their experiences in the U.S.The Huntsman by
Average
Sad and dark in parts due to the time period, how various people were treated, and how others do not stand up for what is right. The drama is full of details, but emphasizes how communication leads to doubt, accusations, and the transfer of one's guilt to others. "Life at the top" does not always bring happiness.The Home Cook by
Good!
Cook book - so, she's an amazing chef but I don't think this book is for "the home chef." The recipes are amazing, but some are very fussy.The Breakdown by
Excellent!
This is the second book by this author that I have read this month, and it is equally entertaining and scary. This is a modern-day Gaslight, set in England. It is told in first-person by Cass, a newlywed teacher who fears she is going mad, but soon discovers things aren't nearly what they seem. This novel was very entertaining and had me guessing until the very last chapter. Highly recommended.First Grave on the Right by
Excellent!
Funny, creative mystery! This was an interesting take on the Grim Reaper, "ghosts" and our ideas about death - the departed helping to solve mysteries!Star Wars - Lost Stars by
Excellent!
Though a "young adult" novel, I found this to be an enjoyable read. It is the story of two friends and how their lives unfold and entwine. It is set in the Star Wars universe.Catalyst by
Good!
I enjoyed this book. It is a good summer read for Star Wars fans, especially if you'd like to improve your vocabulary! (inchoate, synosure, ecumenopolis, pellucid, fusillades).Sweet Revenge by
Good!
I enjoyed this even though I didn't realize it was the fifth in the series. Will have to go back and read the first 4 books.Sisters Like Us by
Good!
A fun summer read with realistic characters you can connect with. I will definitely read more in this series.The Widower's Notebook by
Excellent!
Sad but uplifting. After 40 years and a happy marriage, Jonathan Santlofer's wife dies with no warning. Very, very, well written.Prisoner B-3087 by
Excellent!
A story of the Holocaust but told from a child's point of view. He was 10 when the war started and 16 when it ended. I that time he was in 9 different concentration camps just trying to stay alive. It's a story about strength, courage, and the will to survive.The Rules of Magic by
Average
If you like magic potions and witches, this is a book for you. It's a book about 3 siblings who believe they are cursed. If they fall in love, something terrible would happen. But love comes in all different forms and when the siblings finally realize it, it may be too late. Just an "all right" kind of book!Southern Lights by
Good!
Typical Danielle Steel book. Just enough conflict, drama, and romance. The book is about a divorced female lawyer, raising a teenage daughter by herself. She takes on a high profile case that puts her daughter at risk and she is forced to seek help from her ex-husband. Good book, easy read.Beastly Things by
Excellent!
Another great Commissario Brunetti mystery - one of the best yet! The final chapter is beautifully written - describing the funeral of the murder victim.Beard Science by
Excellent!
My 4th or 5th time reading this book. "I can't admit I'm wrong about two things in one day!"First Sight by
Good!
Easy summer read. Fast pace and good plot twists.Accidental Heroes by
Good!Who Lynched Willie Earle? by
Excellent!
This book, written for pastors, questions the responsibility for changing the racist environment in the U.S. - and comes to the conclusion that, unless each and every one of us individuals is actively outraged and working to become the intentional friend of our ethnically-diverse neighbor, we, each, are responsible - whether we consider ourselves racist or not. It is our responsibility to become vocally and socially active in combating division.Doctored Evidence by
Excellent!
I just love this series of books. I'm attempting to read through the entire series. I get the feeling I'm going to go through withdrawal when I get to the end! Doctored Evidence was another great one!!The Wrong Sister by
Excellent!
Loved the book. Kept me wanting to keep reading. The ending was totally unexpected.First Grave on the Right by
Poor
As far as a murder mystery goes, not much of a book. As for the paranormal aspect, it was way over the top, especially the end portion about the son of Satan.The Identicals by
Excellent!
Long book, but just enough drama and plot twists to keep you reading. The book is about identical twins separated when their parents divorced. Many years later the twins are back together to deal with a tragedy, what kept them apart and their perspective drama.Just One Look by
Good!
Cohen is a great writer who connected all the details to make them believable. An old photograph starts off the suspense. How did it get into the package of new prints and who put it there?The Great Believers by
Good!
A very good read. This book takes place in the mid-1980s and present time. I enjoyed the author's style of writing.My Dream of You by
Average
The death of a colleague and close friend awakens Kathleen to realize she is in mid-life and her sad life has become more painful. She quits her job in London and takes a risk by going to Ireland and researching a famous love life from long ago. Will this give her new energy, meaning to life itself, and happiness that she seems to have only experienced in small segments over the years?The Song Remains the Same by
Excellent!
I really enjoyed this book about a woman who survives a plane crash but loses her memory. She goes on a journey to piece back together who she is as a person as well as who she wants to be.Force of Nature by
Good!
This was perfect for a light summer read. Most of the story takes place in the bushland of Australia where a group of women try to survive not only in the wilderness, but in the midst of their families' and colleagues' latest personal challenges. Just as the story gets started we find out that one of the women never makes it out with the others. Has she gotten out on her own? Has she gotten hurt or something worse? While we follow a pair of detectives looking into why, the author takes us back to the day it all began, creating a dramatic jump back and forth in time. While the back stories of the cast of characters kept me engaged, I found it even more interesting that these particular trails even had a back story of their own. There are many hidden surprises along the way and being a hiker myself, it really kept me in suspense. Although the ending was creative, it left me with a few unanswered questions. Turns out it is book two of a series! I found this book to be a really fun read and now plan to read more of the series. I would definitely recommend it.Everybody, Always by
Excellent!
The message is simple, love everybody always. It's not always easy, but it could make a difference in the world around us. Bob Groff teaches us to become love!Into the Wild by
Excellent!
This is the story of Chris McCandless as he defies his family's expectations and wanders across the country, finding jobs to support his immediate needs and engaging with the people he meets. The wilds of Alaska provide the background for his tragic death as he misjudges what nature holds in store for him. Tramping through towns and lands, Chris encounters the people and their lives as he becomes part of it for a short while. His story is told by those people who remembered him as he journeyed on their paths and the journals he kept.Long Time Coming by
Excellent!
Great book - great story of the trials of love. Good romance.Die Trying by
Excellent!
This book will keep you guessing until the end!The Lost Letter by
Excellent!
This was a fascinating story that goes back and forth from World War II in Austria to present day America. Story of unending love.Third Grave Dead Ahead by
Good!
This series is so much fun! Each book is engaging - and each ending leaves you anticipating the next book. Have ordered the 4th and can't wait to get into it! Charley stays true to form, winning new friends and eliminating the bad guys in each episode...although her injuries do seem to be getting worse in each book. The big war is coming, or so we're told, and Charley is just beginning to find out what powers she possesses.Orange Is the New Black by
Excellent!
The book is very different than the TV show. It treats all inmates with so much respect, dwelling on the deep unfairness of the judicial and prison systems.Mating in Captivity by
Excellent!
So much to think about! This author gives a fascinating peek into the lives of many couples.Baby Teeth by
Poor
Psychological suspense, but it's slow and hard to keep up with. Very confusing.Harry's Trees by
Average
A novel about grief and friendship.The Street of a Thousand Blossoms by
Good!
Young orphaned Japanese brothers living at the wrong time in the wrong place. Brought by grandparents, the boys are faced with the devastation and survival in their country as Japan goes to war with the United States. Putting their dreams by the wayside, time shows them struggling with whom they want to be as they become of age and struggling with family expectations.Gone Girl by
Excellent!
Gave it an "excellent" for its suspense, twists and turns, and an unsuspected ending. So where has his wife gone? All the clues are definitely pointing to the husband who has reasons to want to get rid of this wife.It Can't Happen Here by
Good!
Political satire about the rise of an American fascist. Eighty years after this was written, I urge you to read it.Gone Girl by
Good!
I wanted to believe the heart-broken husband when his wife goes missing, but evidence starts turning up to surely convict him until.....Great twist to the story line which also becomes complex as all the loose ends need to be wrapped up.The Life List by
Excellent!
Excellent story about a young woman who's beloved mother passes away. Her mother's will leaves her an inheritance with the stipulation that she must complete the remaining goals on a life list she made when she was 14. Going about this forces her to re-examine her relationships and purpose in life.The Good Fight by
Excellent!
Great book and easy to read. Not the ending I expected.Crow Boy by
Good!
This interesting YA time travel book takes place in Edinburgh's Mary Chase Close, a popular underground tourist destination in Scotland, bringing the past alive.Bruno, Chief of Police by
Good!
Bachelor, cook, farmer, tennis instructor - and chief of police! Bruno is one of the more interesting detectives I've come across. the setting in the south of France is also beautifully depicted.
Reader Reviews
Marley and Me by
Good!
Told from the perspective of a frustrated, but loving, owner. Marley was out of control, but so loved and he protected his family.The After Wife by
Good!
Entertaining story about love, loss, friendship, and special abilities. Funny and sad.First Grave on the Right by
Excellent!
A delightful, quirky book. Looking forward to reading the next in the series. Solves the mystery, but leaves you in suspense - wanting more of what you've just read. A wonderful read for Summer, Fall, Winter or Spring!The Apartment by
Good!
This novel is about a married couple living in South Africa who, after being robbed at gunpoint in their home, decide to do a house swap to Paris for a vacation to heal. The apartment in Paris turns out to be nothing like what was promised, and their seemingly peaceful vacation turns into horror. The chapters alternate between Steph, the wife, and Mark, the husband, as they tell their version of their stories in the first person. I listened to this book on audio, and I enjoyed how they had different voice actors for each of the characters. This was a creepy story, and I found it entertaining.Those Girls by
Excellent!
It's a very twisted book. I feel for these 3 girls and all they've been through. It was a page turner. It was super emotional. They went from one nightmare to another.Espresso Shot by
Average
Typical "part of a series" book. In this one, the amateur sleuth owns a coffee shop, has an ex-husband, a new boyfriend, a grown child, the usual list of friends who help her solve the crimes/mysteries.The Red Tent by
Good!
Fictional account of biblical women's society through the eyes of Dinah, the only daughter of Jacob.Any Dream Will Do by
Excellent!
I enjoyed reading that you can change and there is good in everyone. Forgiveness is always in us. Love heals all.A Higher Loyalty by
Excellent!
Forget your politics. This is a great story of living up to your personal values and beliefs.Prince Charles by
Excellent!
An insight into the life of Prince Charles that many people don't know about. While overshadowed by the Queen and outshined by Diana, he is energetic in obtaining his goals and very much a forward thinker. It changed my outlook and opinion on this next heir to the monarchy.This Beautiful Life by
Good!
This novel shows the unintended consequences a decision can bring to not only yourself, but your loved ones.The Late Show by
Good!
This review is based on the audiobook. The book itself was entertaining, if not mostly predictable. It was about Renee, a young detective who made some enemies in the police department and ends up on the overnight shift, where she investigates 2 cases that turn out to be related to each other, and to her. The novel was ok, but the narrator was monotonous, and I think that might have negatively affected my opinion of the book. The book itself was good, but the audiobook was just average.Make Them Pay by
Good!
The author kept the suspense going by linking the various characteristics of extended family members intertwined. Each of the kin possesses his/her own quirks, motives, and objectives - sometimes with dangerous outcomes. It dealt with people of substantial connections and money. The book was enjoyable but a few actions seemed "out of place."Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by
Excellent
Based on a true story, life in Savannah would have been quite interesting if one was part of this piece of the neighborhood and social circle. Entertaining and being entertained with the southern style and ambience. The community members each had their role to play out and then: who would be invited to the annual Christmas party - and the reason for being invited.How to Start a Fire by
Excellent!
A captivating story of three women. Their unlikely friendship begins in college, and we are taken through twenty years of the ties between these very quirky and vastly different personalities. It is their imperfections that will keep you turning the pages!Me Before You by
Excellent!
An excellent story. I'm glad I read the book before I knew anything about the story (which has also been made into a movie). Very moving and will leave you thinking about it long after you have finished the book.My Patients Like Treats by
Average
I thought this would be a funny read, but it was just OK.The Hangman by
Good!
Because this was a novella without the complexity and length of the usual Inspector Gamache mysteries, I felt it seemed a little formulaic - but it was a good, quick visit to old friends.Sharp Objects by
Good!
A reporter returns to her hometown to investigate a murder of a young girl. Her family is extremely dysfunctional and mysterious.Past Perfect by
Excellent!
Wonderful story with a sense of mystery. Many twists and turns, fun read.Fairytale by
Good!
Conflict ran throughout the story. Not a book to read if dealing with breast cancer.Fall from Grace by
Excellent!
Great story - plot moves along, well developed characters. Loved the story - great beach book!Gift from the Sea by
Average
The first time I read this book was some 30 years ago and I was in a life transition and I appreciated the affirmations contained in the book. This time, after reading "The Aviator's Wife," I heard much of here story with different ears. Part of that may also be a factor of being older. But I saw the effects of a privileged life - too much wealth, too much time on her hands, too much self-absorption. It didn't ring as sweet this time.Power Game by
Good!
Mentally and physically enhanced humans are used by various factions of individuals for power, money, and greed. Trying to live in some kind of normal community and controlling their individual attributes, the opposition constantly is a threat. High action.Those Girls by
Good!
This was a well-written novel written in various first-person perspectives about 3 sisters who endure torture and abuse throughout their lives from various men. It is a dark book, and emotionally exhausting. It is not a light read, and it highlights the relationship among the sisters and how each copes with their past differently.The Family Gathering by
Good!
This was a quick easy read for the summer. I found it a bit predictable, but I enjoyed the characters and the feel-good story.The Immortalists by
Good!
If you knew the actual date of your death, how would you live your life? This book is about a family choosing the fine line of destiny and choice, reality and illusions. What this world offers and what happens in the next.Christmas at Two Love Lane by
Excellent!
How matchmaking works if you know where to look. Nice look into southern thinking about the New York City life.Death of an Addict by
Good!
Another interesting Hamish Macbeth mystery, this one delving into the drug world, with Hamish going undercover - fun stuff!Universal Harvester by
Average
This book had so much potential to be great, but it was just confusing and all over the place. It kept jumping from present to back and then back again. Even when something interesting happened, it skips the interesting part and goes right to the aftermath. One of the best things I can say about this novel is that it was short.Mudbound by
Excellent!
This book is based on a true life story. To be more awakened and enlightened, a must read! A gripping and exquisitely rendered story of forbidden love, betrayal, and murder set against the brutality of the Jim Crow South. The movie is also an eye-opener.Skipping Christmas by
Good!
A short story on how past traditions are affected by current situations - our family, neighbors, and community. Is change bad and can we celebrate in different ways or do we always have to conform? Perhaps in families, everyone's feelings, needs, and expectations have to be known and communicated during the stress of holidays.A Higher Loyalty by
Good!
This book is read very well by the author in the audio version. It presents a unique look at former FBI director James Comey's career and some of the significant events and interactions that led to his firing in the early months of the Trump presidency.The Marriage Lie by
Excellent!
Fast-paced, page-turning book that you won't put down. A great thriller!The Jewels of Paradise by
Good!
This is a stand alone novel by Leon. It was quite interesting, although it took some time to get into it.Goodbye, Sweet Girl by
Good!
Story of a young woman whose husband is a threatening force in her life and how she tries to escape and leave her marriage.In the Name of Honor by
Good!
At first it seems like a straight-forward guilty act, but the participants have many secrets. Interesting that this information is held in so many scenarios when at the end, most of them are revealed. Ready to leave the military life for one of a civilian, Captain Paul Terry is assigned the case and seemingly has only a short time to prepare. Of course, Brian's sister wants to help with the defense. Another facet is thrown in as Terry and Meg become involved.A Bend in the Road by
Excellent!
Nicholas Sparks is an excellent story teller. Love his books! A story about loss, looking for justice, shocking secrets and, finally, love.Bring Me Back by
Excellent!
You will not be disappointed. All her books have kept you in suspense and on the edge of your seat. A psychological suspense....you will think you know the ending, but in your mind you will question everything and everyone.Tall Tail by
Excellent!
Always a good read. I haven't read a Rita Mae & Sneaky Pie book I didn't like!Black Beauty by
Excellent!
It becomes obvious why this book is a classic. Through the words and insight of A. Sewell, the character, feelings, thoughts, and life of Black Beauty become "real." The reader can sympathize with this character and almost forget that it is not a human.Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire by
Excellent!
Audio book - this is our summer series. We love Harry Potter and have read, listened to, and watched movies over and over again.The Island by
Excellent!
A story about a family that experiences a number of difficult losses and how they work through it. The family takes an extended respite on Tuckernuck Island for the summer. Entertaining, easy to read, satisfying summer book.A Highland Christmas by
Excellent!
This was a sweet departure from the Hamish MacBeth "Death of a ___" series. Although there was a mystery, no one died, but the life of the Scottish Highlands was highlighted more than ever.Clock Dance by
Excellent!
This book is about a woman named Willa, who we meet as a child. Willa's story is told in twenty year increments. The events in her life change and shape her, and she experiences second chances most people wish for. Anne Tyler's gift is creating ordinary characters, who are extraordinary.Thrawn by
Excellent!
The origin of the character Thrawn from Star Wars. Great because it highlights his intelligence. I really liked him by the end, a surprising contrast to his movie persona.As Bright as Heaven by
Excellent!
As always, Susan Meissner is at her best!True Believer by
Good!
This was a fast poolside read. A little supernatural story with a times a predictable story line.The Woman in the Window by
Good!
The first half of this book was particularly slow going and a bit confusing. The narrator is a child psychologist who is mixing heavy-duty medication with merlot. I can't go on without revealing too much about the plot. If you like thrillers, this is a good one to read.Thinnest Air by
Excellent!
A page-turning mystery/psychological thriller. A beautiful newly-married young woman disappears into thin air. With no clues to go on, her sister, along with the local police, tirelessly search for answers. Told from the perspective of both women, this very well-written tale will keep you guessing and reading away.The Shoemaker's Wife by
Average
This book was very long and a little drawn out, but it's a good old-fashioned love story. However, it's not only the love for a person but a love for their country as well. It's about two Italian people who love each other on sight, but never seem to be on the same page. However, they constantly "bump" into one another throughout the book and remember their first encounter. It brings you back to 1900 when America was young and people worked hard and stayed close to their families at all costs.One Summer Day in Rome by
Good!
This novel tells the story of three different couples at three different stages in their lives. It was interesting to read about their adventures in Rome, although I found it distracting to keep switching between the different story lines.Heaven Adjacent by
Excellent!
This novel was a beautifully written story of a woman who chooses to slow down, leave a high-powered job and move from the city - to join the human race rather than the rat race.When Dimple Met Rishi by
Excellent!
A sweet story about two Indian-Americans exploring life away from their traditional-minded families, examining their own values and goals on a college campus.All by Myself, Alone by
Average
Many characters to follow, each with their own conflicts, hard to remember each connection.Before and Again by
Excellent!
Loved this book! Great character development! Could not put it down - always rooting!Sanctuary by
Excellent!
An action-packed thriller. Language a little rough, but it fits the characters. Not for the very young or faint of heart!!Sally's Cookie Addiction by
Good!
Great pictures and lots of variations.The Only Girl in the World by
Excellent!
Although slightly disturbing, this memoir of a young girl in the hands of a father who was raising her to be "super human" is a story of strength and hope triumphing.Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by
Excellent!
Love Harry Potter. We listened to the audio book while driving around town. very interesting and original story.Holly and Ivy by
Excellent!
Gives a good insight to loss of loved ones and that you need to grieve but then move on with your life. Just think of the happy times.The Saturday Night Supper Club by
Excellent!
This delectable novel set in Denver's hottest kitchens will have you quickly turning the pages, hungry for more!The Children's Blizzard by
Excellent!
On January 12, 1888, a warmer day seemed to enlighten the souls of those residents in the upper mid-west. Children trekked off to school eager to see their teacher and neighbors. But most were fooled by the inviting sky and were caught in the treacherous folds of a blizzard. David Laskin did an excellent job of telling this story and to imagine it being true. Great insight into the people who settled this part of the USA, why they came, and what they found upon arriving.No One Tells You This by
Good!
Memoir written by a 40-year-old woman who chooses a different path in life. She finds peace with herself as she decides to be single and childless.Bossypants by
Excellent!
I listened to this book on audio, read by Tina Fey and I loved it! It was humor mixed with life lessons she learned as a woman in a men-driven business. Her stories about early SNL days and her honeymoon were hilarious and the fact that she herself was reading it only made it funnier. I would highly recommend the audio version of this book.Second Grave on the Left by
Good!
The second in a series of 13(?), this is a fun summer read for adults. All the main characters from the first book are back. A very quick-moving story as Charley bounces back and forth, handling issues with work, family, and the son of Satan.The Universe Has Your Back by
Good!
Inspirational, but also practical in terms of everyday strategies to help increase positivity and "letting go."The Summer Wives by
Good!
A story that goes back in time and into 1970, a family and its secrets!Beartown by
Excellent!
I don't like hockey, but I thought I'd give Beartown a try. I could not put down this honest, sometimes dark, but often beautiful book.The Call of the Wild by
Excellent!
The journey of trials and tribulations through the eyes of a dog's life. The reader becomes aligned with the dog and along side of him for survival.Friction by
Excellent!
Looking for a thriller, romance, and action?
This book is great!16th Seduction by
Excellent!
Great book! James Patterson holds your interest until the end.Killing Floor by
Excellent!
Great book - full of action!The Subway Girls by
Good!
This novel takes place in the 1940s and present time. A present-day marketing strategy goes back in time to the Subway Girls. Every month a new girl was picked and her photo and info about her was displayed in the subways.By Invitation Only by
Excellent!
I enjoyed reading this story of two very different families coming together for a wedding. The author give rich descriptions of life in the "low country." And the interesting plot kept me from putting down this book!And One Last Thing... by
Good!
A fun romance - great vacation read. Intelligent.Always Forever Maybe by
Excellent!
Haunting tale of how fast an amazing first love can become toxic and abusive. This book shows how a young girl is blinded by love, but learns to overcome her troubles.Jar of Hearts by
Excellent!
Thriller - from the minute this book started it kept me on the edge of my seat. What happened that fateful night? Have all the answers risen to the surface? Did the past catch up with her? Her first love a serial killer? Obsessive, compulsive, deep dark buried secrets. A must-read!The Last Secret of the Deverills by
Good!
The final book in the Deverill family trilogy was not a disappointment. This multi-generational saga revealed all the family's secrets.Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by
Good!
A non-fiction drama unfolds as the characters in Savannah vie for their place in the local neighborhood. Some have their heritage to rely on, new money status, or those who have moved there and are awed by this society, local gossip, and the unfolding, almost unbelievable events. It is at the end of the story that I had to remember the story actually transpired and would have been exciting to have been part of the Christmas parties and entertainment!Sharp Objects by
Good!
Camille is a broken crime reporter who has sadness in her past. Her past includes time in a mental hospital which being a crime journalist may not be good. Young children have been murdered and as Camille and as she looks into this, she turns to alcohol. She seems to have a chaotic relationship with her mother and step-sister, who seems to have a dark side.Sharp Objects by
Good!
Flynn does a great job of creating a mood and tone that is complex as Camille's chaotic family and soon-to-be-introduced new sister of some sort. Once in a mental hospital, Camille has to deal with the death of her sister years ago and her now life as a crime reporter which adds layers to her already broken life, plus alcoholismThe Woman in Cabin 10 by
Good!
The voyage could not have been more tranquil and relaxing as journalist Lo Blacklock travels to her next destiny, but a week later when the weather turns bleak so does the mood on the ship. Lo sees a woman go overboard, but why is no one missing? And she is not believed. Good suspenseful story.Sleeping Beauties by
Good!
A pandemic sweeps a small town in West Virginia, causing sleeping ladies to become wrapped in mysterious cocoons. If they are awakened, they are filled with murderous rage, violently seeking revenge on their men. There is a stunning beautiful woman who appears to be the catalyst for all the action. The cocooned women slip into an alternate universe, creating a world without men. This is a well-written epic by story-teller master Stephen King and his son Owen. Lots of characters interact in this tale of fantasy and suspense. An ultimate battle of the sexes.Redwood Bend by
Excellent!
Robyn Carr stays true to her pattern of delivering an engaging romance in the sweet little town of Virgin River. Eighteenth in the series, this one is another quick, yet fulfilling, read.The Haunting of Maddy Clare by
Good!
Very entertaining ghost story with a love interest angle and a murder mystery. Well-crafted.