The World Without You

 

“The World Without You” by Joshua Henkin

Published by Pantheon

Finished 8/31/21 – 2.5/5 stars

This is the story of a family coming together to memorialize their younger brother/son on the one year anniversary of his death in Iraq.  The storyline only held my interest part of the time, had no real climax within the story, and then felt like an incomplete ending that was a little rushed.  Maybe others will find it a little better but it definitely wasn’t for me.  Although I did finish it so it wasn’t horrible, just not very enjoyable.

When the Summer Was Ours

 

“When the Summer Was Ours” by Roxanne Veletzos

Published by Atria Books

Finished 8/21/21 – 4/5 stars

This is a love story that begins in Hungary, 1943.   As Eva’s wedding date approaches, she goes to relax at her family’s country home.  While there she befriends a gypsy who sweeps her off her feet.  A tragic event and World War II then interrupts their lives and Eva is left with neither man in her life, at least for a little while.  Whereas their lives all go in different directions, eventually their paths will cross again.  But which man is her heart’s true love?  Time will tell.

This is the first WW II historical fiction I’ve read that takes place in Hungary.  The city streets of Budapest and the small country town of Sopron make a beautiful setting, especially for a love story.  There is sadness and heartbreak but there is also love, courage, and determination.  I definitely recommend this one. 

Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

The Fallen

 

“The Fallen” by David Baldacci

Published by Grand Central Publishing

Finished 8/12/21 – 3/5 stars

 This is the first Baldacci book I’ve read in quite a while.  I’m not sure why I haven’t picked one up before now because I always enjoy the ones I read.  Like this one, full of twists and turns that I always love.  I changed my mind multiple times as to who the murderer was.  And yes, at one point I had it right….but then I changed my mind again.

 This is the 4th book in the “Memory Man” series.  I haven’t read the others yet but plan to (didn’t realize it was a series when I started).  In this book, Alex Decker, is on vacation when he comes across a murder scene.  Come to find out, there have been other recent murders in this little town that could be related.  Vacation over – time to work with local law enforcement to try and solve the case.