"The Girl Before" REVIEW

“The Girl Before” by J P Delaney

Published by Ballantine Books

Finished 12/26/16  -  4.5/5 stars

This book has been compared to other hit thrillers, and if you were to read it with those comparisons in mind, you might give it a lower rating because you were in the wrong mindset while reading it.  Yes, it is a psychological thriller and yes, it has the word “Girl” in the title, but that doesn’t mean it’s like “The Girl on the Train” or “Gone Girl”.  This is a completely different story and should be read without the predetermined comparisons.  You’ll enjoy it a lot more.

I give this book 4.5 stars.  The only reason I hold back from a full 5 is because there were a couple “scenes” I personally didn’t care for.  It didn’t stop me from absolutely loving it though.  I liked that it was told in two different perspectives – the girl that has lived in a very unique house in the past and the girl currently living there.  The chapter titles told you whose story you were about to read but one also had a slightly different writing style to help you remember which character you were reading (at times the storylines were quite similar so this came in handy).  I also liked that the chapters were short to give you plenty of stopping places.  Granted, I hated having to put this book down at all but when reading during Christmas time, there are other things a little more important.  I was still able to finish it in 3 days because the need to know what happened in the past and the curiosity of what will happen in the present will keep you reading anytime you have a free minute.  And if you think you can figure it out on your own….you are probably going to be wrong.

Thank you Net Galley and Ballantine Books for the opportunity to read this ARC in return for an honest review.  I’m anxious to hear what others think once the book comes out next month.

"Elizabeth Is Missing" REVIEW

“Elizabeth is Missing” by Emma Healey

Published by Knopf Canada

Finished 12/23/16  -  4/5 stars

 

This novel is told by Maud, a woman in her eighties who is suffering from Alzheimer’s.  It’s a mix of present day where she obsessed with where her best friend, Elizabeth, is and memories of the past where her sister, Sukey, is missing. As the story progresses, so does the Alzheimer’s and Maud begins to confuse the past and the present more and more.  Although told by Maud you are also able to see the affects the disease has on her family.  I do think the family suffers more than the patient when Alzheimer’s is involved.

I found the book to be very well written, especially knowing this is a debut novel for this author.  I thought she did a wonderful job giving insight into Maud’s deteriorating mind and the effects of those around her.  Although narrated by Maud, you are still able to feel the emotional strain on her daughter, Helen, as well.  The two mysteries are easily solved but I think of them as more of just a part of the storyline rather than the book being a mystery.  I definitely recommend it.

"The Winter in Anna" REVIEW

“The Winter in Anna” by Reed Karaim

Published by W W Norton & Company

Finished 12/15/16  -  rated 4/5 stars

We are introduced to Anna on the day of her death.  A painful, lonely suicide.  In the remainder of the novel we learn more about Anna through the eyes of the narrator, a long lost friend.  He tells us of his year spent in a tiny town as the editor of the local weekly paper with Anna as the photographer.  Through his stories, and the few Anna shares with him of her past, we are able to get to know Anna a little more and get a better understanding as to why she would take her own life.  Granted, she didn’t leave a note, but one isn’t needed.  You know what internal demons she faced and what event truly broke her heart in pieces.  A heartbreak one never fully recovers from.

I think this novel is beautifully written.  The words simply flow off the pages at times.  Even when occasionally the subject matter is dark, it doesn’t have that dark feel.  There are a couple slow parts in the book (which is why it is a 4 rather than a 5), however, because you are continually becoming more and more attached to the main characters, it’s easy to get through the slower parts.  You still want to keep reading until you know why Anna would want to take her own life, leaving her older children behind.  It was unthinkable to me, until it wasn’t.

Thank you to Net Galley and W W Norton & Company for an advanced copy of this novel.  

"Where'd You Go, Bernadette" REVIEW

“Where’d You Go, Bernadette”

By Maria Semple
Published by Back Bay Books
Finished 12/1/16 – 3.5/5 stars

Looking for a light and funny read?  This book will fill that need, and it’s a pretty quick read as well.  It is oddly written in that the majority of it is emails, faxes (really?), and letters with the remainder being narrated by Bernadette’s teenage daughter, Bee, filling in the gaps with her own memories.  Bernadette is quite quirky and entertaining (unintentionally) but my favorite parts were the storylines that included the moms from Bee’s private school (referred to as annoying gnats).  Those parts were hysterical to me.  Granted, if you are one of those moms you might not find it so funny J   I won’t give away the ending but will say, I’m not sure whether or not I liked it.  There were parts of the ending I enjoyed, but not sure how I feel about how it all turned out.  All my questions were answered, just not necessarily how I wanted them to be I guess.

"And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer" REVIEW

"And Every Morning the Way Home Gets Longer and Longer" by Fredrik Backman

A novella published by Atria Books (Simon & Schuster)

Finished  11/28/16 -  5/5 stars

What an absolutely beautiful novella, so heartfelt and touching.  Based on the letter to the reader in the front of the book, I believe Mr. Backman is losing someone dear to Alzheimers himself which is why I believe there is so much compassion built into this short story.  He’s pouring part of himself into Ted and Noah, the son and grandson of the older gentlemen slowly slipping away.  I think this novella is a tribute to his loved one, but I’m sure many can relate to the emotions involved.

When I first went to read this, it was the end of the day and I was exhausted.  As impossible as it may seem for such a short book, I feel asleep while reading and thus was confused about what I had read.  When I picked it back up the next day, I started over and read it straight through.  I’m so glad I did.  This is a story that needs to be read in one setting.  You won’t want to put it down anyway, but to experience the full emotions meant to be felt, it should be read straight through.

I have now read three out of four of Mr. Backman’s books and have loved each and every one.  And am over the moon to hear there is a new one coming out this spring for me to enjoy as well.  He just might become my new favorite author.  He always manages to make me both laugh and cry all in one book.

Thank you to both Atria Books (Simon and Shuster) and Net Galley for a copy of this wonderful novella in return for an honest review.  I greatly appreciate it.



"The Zookeeper's Wife" REVIEW

"The Zookeeper's Wife" by Diane Ackerman
Published by W. W. Norton & Co


Finished 11/27/16  -  3/5 stars

I’ve been meaning to read this book for a while.  When I saw they had made it into a movie coming out this spring, I decided to move it to the top of my list.  I think it could be a good movie, but felt it was just an OK book.  I thought the author did a very good job with the nature and animal aspects of the book – the writing flowed with great descriptions during those parts.  When it came to the people’s actions and descriptions, it felt choppy – it made it difficult to bond or relate with any of the characters.  Truly, at times I thought maybe the book was co-written because the styles seemed so different depending on the subject matter being discussed.

"Yes Please" REVIEW

 "Yes Please" by Amy Poehler

(audio book)

Finished 11/25/16  - 3/5 stars

I listened to this audio book to lighten the mood during our political turmoil and keep me away from the CNN channel during my commute.  It worked :)  I haven't mastered the art of listening without my mind wandering so I don't feel I should review it.  I did enjoy it though.

Happy Thanksgiving (a day late)

"Chaos" by Patricia Cornwell REVIEW

“Chaos” by Patricia Cornwell

Published by HarperCollins

Finished 11/20/16 – 4/5 stars

I was a non-reader in school, probably because some of the books I would be forced to read  didn’t interest me at all.  I started reading the Kay Scarpetta series in my early 20s and truly loved them.  Patricia Cornwell is one of the authors that brought out my love of reading as a young adult – I read the 1^st 10 books in the series as soon as they were released.  She is the reason that while on road trips, if I’m not driving, I’ll keep an eye on the side of the road for dead bodies.  Sad, but true.  And every time I drive down 64 in VA on my way to/from the beach, I think of her as I drive by a certain rest area that was in one of her books.  As my love of reading grew, so did the variety of books I would read so unfortunately I haven’t been able to read all of the recent Dr Scarpetta cases.  That didn’t stop me from enjoying this most recent one.  I didn’t have all the background information as those who have read all the recent books, but that’s OK.  I loved it anyway.  I think people would enjoy it more if they’ve been reading some or all of the series, but it can also be a stand alone book.

In this case, a young bicyclist is found dead on the side of a trail in a city park.  The body, helmet, and bicycle locations don’t add up and neither do the injuries at first glance.  Was it an accident or was she attacked?  Earlier that same day, an odd 911 call is received complaining about Dr. Scarpetta plus Det Marino receives an odd phone call as well causing even more confusion.  And to add more anxiety to her day, her estranged sister is coming into town from Florida.  It’s a whirlwind of a day for Dr. Scarpetta.

Thank you to Sullivan and Partners for an advanced copy of this book in return for an honest review.  And thank you to Patricia Cornwell for bringing out my love of reading 20+ years ago.  I might not have become the avid reader I am today if it weren’t for your novels.

If you want to read an excerpt to see if you’ll like it, go to the following website:

 http://www.patriciacornwell.com/chaos-excerpt-2/ 

If you want to just go ahead and buy it, here are some links to it:

Buy Links:

Amazon Hardcover: bit.ly/ChaosHardcover
Kindle: bit.ly/ChaosKindle
iBooks: bit.ly/ChaosiBooks
Nook: bit.ly/ChaosNook
B&N Hardcover: bit.ly/ChaosBN
GooglePlay: bit.ly/ChaosGoogleplay
Kobo: bit.ly/ChaosKobo
BAM: bit.ly/ChaosBAM
IndieBound: bit.ly/ChaosIndieBound

And if you want to connect with Ms. Cornwell, you can check out her website and/or follow her on social media (like I do):

Patricia Cornwell's Social Links:

Website: www.patriciacornwell.com 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/patricia.cornwell/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/1pcornwell

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1pcornwell/ 

 

"Only Daughter" Review

“Only Daughter” by Anna Snoekstra

Published by MIRA Books

Finished 11/8/16 -  3.5 of 5 stars

A teenage girl disappears in 2004 without a trace.  In 2014 a girl who looks similar pretends to be her to get out of trouble with the police.  Can she really pull it off with the missing girl’s family and best friend?  And just what really happened ten years ago?  The chapters alternate between 2004 and 2014, narrated by the real Becky and the pretend Becky.  I enjoyed the story but found parts of the book to be a little farfetched.  I do like that the author kept the ending a secret until pretty much the end of the book though.

"Missing, Presumed" review

“Missing, Presumed” by Susie Steiner

Published by The Borough Press

Finished 10/23/16 - 3/5 stars

A young lady goes missing from her flat in England.  There are no firm leads, just initial guesses by the police as they try to link this disappearance to other people and events.  As the story goes on, you come to think you may know what happened to her, but you won’t figure out the why.  At least I didn’t – I thought that piece pretty much came out of left field when revealed.  You know of someone’s involvement, but not to what extent or why until they confess.

The story is told by a total of five characters…..truly, I think it could have been done with just two or three.  The main narrator is one of the lead police officers who brings her own storyline of finding herself and what she wants out of life.  She definitely has relationship issues, but she’s my favorite character in the book.

I only give this book 3 out of 5 stars because I was expecting a lot more suspense with this type of storyline.  It was not a page turner.  And I didn’t like the way the mystery piece was wrapped up in a bow towards the end.  I liked how the police officers story ended though.

“Big Stone Gap” by Adriana Trigiani

Published by Simon & Schuster

Finished 10/13/16 – 3/5 stars

 

I read this for my book club this month.  Yes, somehow none of had read it or watched the movie prior.  The majority of the ladies in my book club gave it a 3.5 rating but I’m sticking with a solid 3.  A couple members have continued on with the series and one has since watched the movie (saying it wasn’t all that good).  This is a “one and done” series for me though – I truly just thought it was OK.  I enjoyed it, but it wasn’t anything special and I don’t feel the need to find out what happens next to the characters.  Having said that, I do think this would be a good book to read when you are ready for something light and fluffy.  Whether it is because there is just too much going on in life, you need a relaxing book, or you need something to help you recover from reading something dark…..this would be a good pick.   

"Small Great Things" Review

“Small Great Things” by Jodi Picoult

Published by Ballantine Books

Finished 9/30/16 – 5/5 stars

I am a huge fan of Jodi Picoult.  Every year she does extensive research on a topic and puts out a fabulous book based on that topic.  When I heard her next book was going to be about racism, I was intrigued.  It’s quite the hot topic – would she be able to pull it off seeing as how she’s a rich white woman?  I’d have to wait and see.  And then I start reading the book itself and found it to be written in the perspective of a professional black woman.  I said to myself “how on earth is she going to pull this off?”  Could she do it without a backlash from the African American communities?  Not that I don’t think authors can write in the perspective of another race, they do it all the time so that’s not an issue.  But could you truly understand them enough to be able to portray their thoughts and feelings regarding racism having never been in their shoes?  And then comes the next chapter and it is being told in the perspective of a white supremest.   Another challenge, but I knew she’d be able to pull that off – after all, she wrote a book in the perspective of a Nazi soldier at a prison camp (my absolute favorite Jodi Picoult book – The Storyteller).  So, how did she do?  Fabulous!!!  I loved this book!  Not only was the storyline great, but it makes you look within yourself.  I’ve always considered myself a non-racist but then this book points out the little things that make me stop and think – do I do that or how would I react to that if it were me?  As I said before……I love a book that makes me think.

Thank you to Net Galley and Ballantine Books for a copy of this book in return for an honest review.

"Oreads" Review

"Oreads" by John F Lavelle  

Published by Roundfire Books

Finished 9/21/16 - 5/5 stars!!

Wow!  This is a beautifully written book about a difficult subject - the lives of the poor in the mountains of West Virginia.  It is the story of Cassie, a young girl trying to survive in the land she loves.  The story begins when she is just 14 years old and continues into her early 20s.  She strives to have a better life than her parents provided her.  She wants the perfect life with the perfect man, but that would require her leave the comfort of the mountains and she's not ready to do that.  What struggles must she face?  What price must she pay?  All because she doesn't want to leave her home town to try and find a better life, away from the poverty of the Appalachians.

I honestly don't know how this book hasn't received more praise and publicity.  Hopefully it finds it's way into the right hands for it to then skyrocket in popularity (maybe even be made into a movie, because it would be great).  Lucky for me, the author found my blog and asked if I would read and review it.  I'm so grateful that he did.  It is a story that will stay with me for a long time.

And by the way.....it's pronounced Or-e-ads :)  

"The Doll Harvest" Review

“The Doll Harvest” by Ron Savage

Published by Driven Press

Finished 9/15/16 – 4/5 stars

 

One can’t pick books based solely on a national best seller list and expect to read all the great books out there.  There are MANY more that don’t make that list that are wonderful books.  Honestly, I don’t even follow those lists anymore.  I’ve never been into popularity contests anyway – I like what I like.  And what do you know……I like “The Doll Harvest” by Ron Savage.  It might not make it onto a list, but it is worth the read.

The cover of this book gives the impression that it would be in the horror genre, but it’s not.  So if you are like me and don’t read horror, you’re safe with this one.  It’s not a “who done it” either – you know who the good and the bad are right from the start. It is suspenseful though and does keep you reading later than you wanted because you don’t want to put it down without knowing what happens next.  Luckily, the chapters are fairly short thus providing good stopping points.  It’s just a matter of actually putting it down when you come to one.

There are a couple intertwined story lines in this book but the main one focuses on the kidnapping of a young lady.  She’s not taken for ransom money, or sex trafficking, or even just for the pleasure of the kidnapper.  She’s taken to harvest her body parts to sell on the black market.  Disturbing right?  I hope to God there is no such thing in the real world because it would be very scary to know there are doctors and patients out there willing to pay whatever it takes for a body part, knowing it’s not something you can just grow on a farm or in a lab (although that could be the case in the future).  They have to come from someone…..someone who just died. 

Thank you to Driven Press for providing me with a copy of this book in return for an honest review.  I wish this author great success.

"Lean on Pete" Review

“Lean on Pete” by Willy Vlautin

Published by Harper Perennial

Finished 9/10/16 – 3.5/5 stars

I came across this book because an author I enjoy reading and follow on Goodreads had read it for his book club and really enjoyed it.  Prior to that, I had never heard of it before.  That is how I find out about a lot of great books though – reviews by others on Goodreads.  Anyone can find out about books on the best seller list but reviews and recommendations by others introduce me to many more wonderful books, new and old.

This novel is about a 15 year old who is pretty much on his own – he doesn’t know his mother and his father is never around.  Throw in the fact that his father moves him around fairly often and therefore doesn’t have friends to lean on, he is truly raising himself.  He finds friendship at a local race track in an aging horse named Lean on Pete.  After a tragic event leaves him completely alone, he starts a journey to find the only other relative he knows – his aunt that he hopes still lives in Wyoming because that is where he is heading.  At times the journey seems a little repetitive in what he encounters, but overall a very good story.

Although this is a coming of age story and some consider it YA, I don’t think some of the content is suited for tweens or younger teens.  I consider this more for the older YA crowd.

"The Enchanted" Review

“The Enchanted” by Rene Denfeld

Published by Harper

Finished 9/7/16 – 5/5 stars

Wow!  I fell in love with this book on the first page due to the writing.  The subject matter can be difficult at times so it’s not a book for everyone, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. 

The story is told by an inmate living in the dungeon like cells of death row.  He’s been in the system since he was a young boy and copes with his history and new life without windows or true human interaction by becoming a mute and using his imagination to create a different world within the prison walls.  His imagination is not full of fairy tales though, rather it is insightful with a little twist of abnormal.  It’s hard to explain but trust me, it’s well done by the author.

If I could change one thing about this book it would be its length.  It’s a fairly short book so plenty of room to have expanded on the main character’s back story.  But as is, it is a great little book.

"The Cuckoo's Calling" Review

“The Cuckoo’s Calling” by Robert Galbraith (aka J K Rowling)

Published by Little Brown

Finished 8/31/16 – 3/5 stars

Let me first say that my opinion is not affected by a comparison to the way the Harry Potter books were written.  I think I read one and then my daughters read the others on their own.  Plus, those were children’s books so I don’t really think they should be compared.  I have, however, read a great deal of mysteries and found myself comparing this book to some of those.  Because of that, I am giving this book just an OK rating.  When I read a mystery, there needs to be suspense.  I like to be on the edge of my seat multiple times throughout the book.  It needs to be a true page turner.  Not necessarily the entire time but at least some.  Not only did this book not have that, I felt that part of the conclusions came out of left field.  There is nothing wrong with a surprise ending (I prefer them), but most of those come with some foreshadowing that you just didn’t realize at the time.  For this story, I had no issue with who the guilty party ended up being, but I did have a little issue with the way the detective apparently figured some of it out.  It seemed all wrapped in a bow in which half of the bow was made of magical ribbon.

With that being said, I did enjoy the story line and the characters.  Although not full of suspense, I did want to continue picking it up to find out what really happened so there were positives within the reading experience.  It’s a good book…..just not great.  This is the first in a series in which two more books have been released so far and the average rating seems to improve with each one so maybe I’ll enjoy the others more.

"Between Shades of Gray" Review

“Between Shades of Gray” by Ruta Sepetys

Published by Speak, an Imprint of Penguin Group

Finished 8/22/16, 4/5 stars

 

“Whether love of friend, love of country, love of God, or even love of enemy---love reveals to us the truly miraculous nature of the human spirit.” – Ruta E Sepetys

This is the story of a 15 year old girl taken from her home in Lithuania at the start of World War II.  Her father is sent to prison but her mother, 10 year old brother, and her are sent to work camps.  As expected, travel and living conditions are deplorable but strangers come together to fight for survival.  The bonds formed out of necessity turn into true emotional bonds.  The above quote says it all.

Whereas this is considered a Young Adult novel, adults will enjoy it just as much.  Parts of the storyline are predictable but that can happen when reading historical fiction.  Overall, it is a completely fabulous story that I highly recommend.

"Becoming Nicole: The Transformation of an American Family" Review

“Becoming Nicole: The Transformation of an American Family” by Amy Ellis Nutt

Published by Random House

Finished 8/19/16 – 5/5 stars!

 

When I saw the picture of Nicole on the cover of this book, I remembered seeing her in a documentary I watched a few years back regarding transgenders.  I immediately knew it was a book I wanted to read.  I don’t know any transgenders personally (that I know of) but I do know there are a couple at my daughters’ high school and that our county is one of those currently struggling to provide equal rights to those children in our school system.  I am very supportive of that cause and hope they do the right thing, but wanted to read more about Nicole’s journey to get a better understanding of what these children go through and the effects it has on them and their families.  This book definitely delivered.

Some people think a person’s sexual orientation or gender identity is a choice….it’s not.  It is not something you just change….you are born that way.  It’s a matter of accepting it and adjusting life to embrace one’s true self.  I believe this book can help people understand that.  Maybe open some doors and windows to those living close-minded lives, to become more accepting of others that aren’t like them, that might go against their religious beliefs.  Knowledge is the key – this book can provide some of that.

Whatever your beliefs, I hope you will take the time to read this book.  If nothing else, it will let you know what it’s like to be a little boy that wants nothing to do with being a boy.  He’s a “girl-boy” and prefers it that way until he can realize his dream of truly becoming a girl – to then dress how she wants, act how she wants, and be accepted as one of the girls.  Because truly, that is what she is.  The innocent minds of children can accept her as she is, it’s those darn close minded adults that get in the way. 

I give this book 5 out of 5 stars, not because it’s beautifully written or a great literary piece.  I give it 5 stars because it is a wonderful story of love and commitment, finding one’s self, supporting others, diversity, and acceptance.  It’s not preachy or critical, it’s honest and educational (without feeling educational).  It is truly moving.

"Insidious" by Catherine Coulter Review

“Insidious” by Catherine Coulter

Pulbished by Simon & Schuster

Finished 8/16/16 – 3/5 stars

I’ve see Catherine Coulter’s name for years but had yet to actually read one of her many books until now.  Unfortunately, I think the fact that I haven’t read her before is why this book is a 3 rather than a 4.  I enjoyed the stories (there are actually 2 separate, unrelated mysteries) and yes, this book can stand alone without having read the other 19 books in the series prior, however, I think I would have greatly benefited by having read some of the prior books.  If I knew more of the background of the main characters I would have been more attached to them and had better insights into their thoughts and beliefs.  The more you know a character, the more you understand them and the choices they make.  When an author writes a series, they can’t be too repetitive with information from prior books because those that have read the entire series already know the background and prefer not to have too much repeated – it takes away from the new story.  So, my take away from reading this book……I need to start from the beginning and go read the first in the series – “The Cove”.  Based on this book, I think I'll enjoy it and eventually read the entire series.

In this book, one of the FBI main characters is sent to CA to try and solve a case in which a serial killer is targeting young actresses.  Back in DC, two of the other main FBI characters are trying to find out who is trying to kill a very wealthy family friend.  They are two unrelated mysteries and both have little twists at the end.

If you have read her other FBI series, I would recommend you read this book as well.  If you haven’t, I think you need to join me in starting at the beginning because I have a feeling it will be worth it.

Thank you to Net Galley and Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy of the book in return for an honest review.

"A Whole Lot" Review

“A Whole Lot” by Bradley Wind

Published by Kindle Press

Finished 8/3/16 – 3/5 stars

 

This is the story of Abel, a young boy who became a savant after he experienced a head trama when his mother dropped him as a little boy.  He spent years in foster care before a family member could be located to take care of him.  Unfortunately, that family member has a lot to learn about motherhood and how to treat others in general.  As a savant, Abel doesn’t have a normal childhood – he’s too intelligent for regular school, has a difficult time getting along with others his age, and is obsessed with mathematical theories and formulas.  This book tells of how Abel tries to overcome obstacles thrown at him while trying to make a better life for himself.

Whereas I enjoyed the story, I feel like it fell a little short…..yet I can’t explain exactly how.  There were times the story didn’t seem to flow very well and at times there were just too many details related to Abel’s math theory, although I know that was a big part of the story so should have been expected.  Overall it was a good book, just not one of my favorites.

I was provided a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

"Whistling Past the Graveyard" Revuew

“Whistling Past the Graveyard” by Susan Crandall

Published by Gallery Books

Finished 7/19/16 – 4/5 stars

I’ve heard this book compared to “Secret Life of Bees”, “The Help” and “To Kill a Mockingbird” and it made me wonder if it could really stand up to such comparisons.  Those are all wonderful books so that is quite a statement.  I was skeptical because I’ve read other comparisons in reviews that I found to be completely without merit, as if trying to rope you in simply by mentioning a best seller when truly the books are nothing alike.   Well, in this instance I can tell you that those comparisons are absolutely correct.  Starla can easily be compared to Scout Finch and Eula can easily be compared to Aibileen Clark.  These are strong female characters in a story that takes place in Mississippi during 1963.

Starla is a feisty red-headed 9 year old girl living with her grandmother while her father is off working on an oil rig and her mother is in Nashville trying to become a singer.  When she gets herself in trouble, yet again, she decides to run away to Nashville to live with her mother rather than be sent to reform school.  That same evening, a black woman named Eula is on her way home from delivering pies she baked, sees someone abandoning a baby on the church steps, and decides to take it.  While driving home, Eula comes across Starla and stops to see if she’s OK.  Starla ends up climbing into the truck and from that moment on the two form quite a bond, helping each other through various struggles over the next couple weeks.  You will laugh, you will tear up, and you will fall in love with both Starla and Eula while you read about their journey.  And then I know you will recommend it to your friends because you will love the book as well.

"The Summer That Melted Everything" Review

“The Summer That Melted Everything” by Tiffany McDaniel

Published by St. Martin’s Press

Finished 7/12/16 - 4/5 Stars

I’m shocked that this is a debut novel.  The storyline is very original (as are some of the character names) and the writing is simply wonderful.  The only negative I have would be that occasionally it felt a little forced rather than simply flowing.  Overall though, it was great and I think this author has a lot to bring to the literary world.

The novel is narrated by Fielding Bliss, a very lonely old man fighting internal demons of his own.  He tells the story of when he was a 13 year old boy in 1984 - the year the devil, who appears as a young, homeless, black boy, came to the very small town of Breathed, Ohio.  Fielding’s dad and the sheriff don’t believe him to be the devil and try to find out who he actually belongs to, but as negative things happen the town becomes more and more convinced that he is in fact the devil.  As the novel switches between the adult Fielding and young Fielding, you are able to see how events of his youth have shaped his life.     

The timing of the release of this book couldn’t be better.  There are currently disturbing issues in America revolving around racism, homosexuality, stereotypes, and bullying.  A recurring theme within the novel is judging people based on their appearance and without truly knowing them - their thoughts, their fears, their struggles, their loves, and their losses.  The actions and re-actions based on these judgements effect the entire community.  Isn’t that true in real life as well?

Thank you to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press for an advanced copy of this novel in return for an honest review.  I greatly appreciate it and wish for wonderful things to come for this talented author.

"The True Story of Hansel and Gretel" Review

“The True Story of Hansel and Gretel:  A Novel of War and Survival”

By Louise Murphy

Published by Penguin Books

Finished 7/1/16 – 5 / 5 stars

I am truly at a loss for words as to how much I adored this book.  Yes, it’s another book taking place during World War II but it can’t be defined by that.  It is a story of love and compassion, putting your life at risk for others, and the struggle to survive.  Unlike other holocaust books I’ve read, this one takes place in a small village in Poland and the surrounding woods and fields.  A Jewish family escapes the ghetto and separates in order to try and survive.  The children’s names are changed to Hansel and Gretel to try to be accepted if they are found, and of course they are…..by a little old Gypsy woman named Magda.  The story follows their life with Magda as well as the life of their father and stepmother who left them at the edge of the woods so as not to be caught by the soldiers chasing them.  There are other characters intertwined as well, and most will tug at your heart strings.

The writing is absolutely fabulous.  There is one scene that takes place in a concentration camp, a horrific place, yet it was beautifully done.  As odd as this will sound, I think it was my favorite part of the book.  Obviously not because of what took place, but because of the way it was written – so full of love and compassion.  It will stay with me for a long time.

Another piece that will stay with me is Greta’s description of the Milky Way……”All those stars in that big streak that goes over the whole sky?  You see them?  Those are all the Jews who’ve died.  All of them died and went up in the air, and the stars are the stars that they wore on their coats.  The stars on the coats come off when their souls float up and the stars live up in the sky forever.”  And when disturbed by a shooting star falling, Hansel says ”They aren’t falling.  They’re going down to meet other people that are going up.”  Just beautiful.

"My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry" Review

“My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry”

By Fredrik Backman

Published by Washington Square Press

Finished 6/27/16 – 5/5 stars

 

I cannot tell you when I last loved a character as much as I love almost-eight-year-old Elsa – she is a quirky, smart little girl who is bullied at school and finds comfort in the stories her grandmother tells her about the Land-of-Almost-Awake.  I also adore Granny – she is a firecracker that will make you laugh out loud.  All the tenants in the building are uniquely special – wonderful characters, each with their own story to tell.  Some a little more intertwined than others.  This all comes to light as Elsa begins her “treasure hunt” to find and deliver letters from her recently deceased grandmother to tell others she’s sorry.  As Elsa delivers the letters, she learns more about the people in her building and a little more about Granny and her past.  This in turn gives her additional insight into the stories Granny would tell of the Land-of-Almost-Awake. 

This is an absolutely wonderful, feel good book.  I recently read his first book, “A Man Called Ove” and loved it, which is why I picked up this one when I saw it.  I’m so glad I did!!  And now I’ll have to pick up his third book that just came out last month – “Britt-Marie Was Here”.  Britt-Marie is one of the characters in “My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She’s Sorry” so obviously I’m anxious to get my hands on that one too.  This author has a talent for telling a good story so I’m sure it will be fabulous as well.

"I've Got Sand In All the Wrong Places" review

“I’ve Got Sand In All the Wrong Places”

By Lisa Scottoline and Francesca Serritella

Published by St. Martin’s Press

Finished 6/22/16 – 5/5 stars

Have you ever read a Lisa Scottoline novel?  If not, you need to.  I admit, I haven’t ventured into her two fictional series but I have read just about all of her stand alone fictional books and LOVE them.  This is not one of those books though.  This is a book from her non-fiction series that she has written with her daughter.  They are just as wonderful but completely different than what she normally writes.  They are a compilation of stories from their own personal lives, the majority of which are quite humorous with others that will warm your heart (and still make you laugh a little).  You know how you need a light read after finishing a book with a very heavy and/or depressing topic (i.e. – the holocaust)?  This is the perfect next book to read.  Or if life is just too stressful and chaotic so you need a book that is easy to pick up but then put right back down after a very short period of a time?  This is the book to read – the stories are short so you have lots of stopping points, if needed.  They are also great to listen to in your car while sitting in traffic.  And if you do choose the audio book route, they narrate the books themselves!  I highly recommend listening to your first one and then as you read the others on your own, their voices and personalities shine through even more.  Or you can just listen to all of them J   Either way, I highly recommend this book along with the others.  I just know you will enjoy them.

Thank you very much to Net Galley and St. Martin’s Press for providing me with an advanced copy of the book in return for an honest review.

"First Comes Love" review

“First Comes Love”

By Emily Giffin

Published by Random House

Finished 6/18/16 – 3/5 stars

 

This is the story of two sisters with quite different personalities whose relationship becomes very strained after an accident takes someone dear from their lives.  Fifteen years later they can begin to see how that fateful night has affected their lives, their relationships, and the need to make some changes.  I think of the book as a mix of a “finding oneself” story and a “coming of age” story….taking place in your late 30s.

 

I give the book 3 out of 5 stars -  I enjoyed it, but it’s not going to be on my list of favorites.  It’s more of a chick-lit book that will probably make a good beach/pool side read.  I thought the storyline itself was good, although not very realistic at times.  The character development was done fairly well – it was written with the narration alternating between the two sisters but I felt it was a little one sided as to who we had deeper insight into.  It was much more of Josie’s story than Meredith’s.

 

 To be honest…..I do not have any sisters, just sister-in-laws so I never experienced that sister bond growing up.  It could be that those with sisters will relate more to that aspect of the book and give it a higher rating.  Although I can tell you, based on my own daughters, I understand the bickering and competition part of their relationship.

 

Thank you to Random House for an advanced copy of “First Comes Love” in return for an honest review.

"The Chilren's Crusade" Review

“The Children’s Crusade”

By Ann Packer

Published by Scribner

Finished 6/7/16  -  3/5 Stars

 

When I read “The Dive From Clausen’s Pier” a few years ago I absolutely loved it and gave it 5 stars so was disappointed when I read “Songs Without Words”, which was just a 3 star read for me.  When I saw Ann Packer had a new book coming out last year called “The Children’s Crusade”, I was anxious to read it with hopes it would be as good as Clausen’s so I dove right in.  Unfortunately, I couldn’t get into it so I put it aside to try again another day – I couldn’t completely abandon it because I felt it had potential.  Fast forward a year and I was ready to give it another try – after all, sometimes you simply have to be in the right mindset to enjoy a book.  This time I finished it……but it was just another 3 star read for me.  I enjoyed it, but just didn’t love it.  I did like the majority of the characters (the mother is truly the worst character, no redeeming qualities) and there was plenty of dysfunction in the family to keep you “entertained” but I don’t think it quite flowed well together.  I’m not sure if it was the way it was written with chapters devoted to different characters or if the characters themselves just didn’t mesh well.  The storyline was good and the characters were well developed but I truly think if it had been written in a single point of view or simply narrated instead, it probably would have been more enjoyable.  Obviously, that’s just my opinion.  And I’m not giving up on Ann Packer – I’m sure she’s got another 5 star read in there for me one day.

Thank you to Net Galley and Scribner for the advanced copy in return for an honest review.  Granted, the “advanced” part didn’t really come in handy for me since it’s now a year later.  Sorry about that.    

"A Man Called Ove" Review

“A Man Called Ove”

By Fredrik Backman

Published by Washington Square Press

Finished 5/29/16

5/5 star read!!

I fell in love with Ove on page one and continued to love him through all 337 pages of this book.  He’s a grumpy, opinionated man who is definitely set in his ways.  He has a strong, stiff outer shell but if you can get under it you will find he has a heart of gold.  He may not come across that way, but he is one of those people who will do anything for anyone.

As the story says, Ove’s life began when he met his wife Sonja and it ended when she died.  Or so he thought.  As he begrudgingly allows others into his life, it begins to take on a new meaning.  Not that he can see that, but it does.  The story follows Ove’s life as he tries to accomplish one goal…just one…..but people, a cat, and life in general continue to get in the way of his goal.  You will laugh out loud at the way Ove’s handles himself (and others) but you will also have tears escape your eyes during touching moments as well.  And you will fall in love with Ove just like I did J

If you haven’t read it yet – go grab yourself a copy.  It’s well worth the read. 

"All the Missing Girls" review

“All the Missing Girls”

By Megan Miranda

Published by Simon & Schuster

Finished 5/25/16 – 5/5 stars

This probably would have been a 4 or 4.5 for me, however the way it was written brought it up to a full 5.  Imagine this….you are reading along, meeting the main character, having the stage set, and suddenly you jump ahead to “Day 15”.  Not a big deal, although you do feel like you’ve missed out on a lot of storyline (obviously).  At the end of that day the chapter ends with a cliffhanger…..do you get to turn the page to go to Day 16 to see what happens?  No.  Do you go back to “Day 1” to carry on from your initial reading?  No.  You go back to the morning of Day 14!  You are left hanging with the unknown.  Each day you go backwards, you get insight into the chapter you just finished reading.  And since it’s a mystery, you are pretty much changing your mind as to what happened and/or who is responsible just about each day.  It is an absolutely brilliant twist on the standard writing style with flashbacks.  Oh, and did I fail to mention that during the 2 weeks this story takes place there are flashbacks to 10 years ago as well?  Yep, it has that too.  But don’t worry, it is written well enough that you can follow along in reverse.  Knowing that was how it was written, I was actually nervous that I might get too confused but that was not the case.

This is the story of a young lady named Nic who receives a call from her brother telling her she needs to come back to their home town of Cooley Ridge, NC to help sell their father’s house.  She has spent the last 10 years trying to stay away from Cooley Ridge as much as she could so this is a request she would prefer not to accept, but she packs up and goes anyway.  When she left a decade ago, her best friend had just gone missing and hasn’t been heard from since.  Another girl from this small town goes missing shortly after Nic arrives home, bringing up the past investigation all over again.  Are the cases related or just a coincidence?  What happened to each of these missing girls are the mysteries that will unravel during the 2 weeks she is home.  I highly recommend that you read it to find out for yourself.

A HUGE thank you to Net Galley and Simon & Schuster for allowing me to read an advanced copy in return for an honest review.  I can’t wait for the book to come out next month so that others can enjoy it and let me know how they like it.