This is a "feel good" book that allows the reader to explore how other women deal with change in their lives. Claire Cook creates interesting characters in realistic stages of life dealing with real issues that we as women face in the 21st century.

I liked this quirky romance, but I didn't love it. I enjoyed the growth in the main characters, Don & Rosie. I thought that the story was a bit drawn out in the middle and the resolution was too rushed.

While I learned a great deal about Vichy France and the provincial life leading up to WWII, during the war, and the years following the war, this was a long read. It was interesting at the beginning and the end, but it was a bit draggy in the middle. I am glad that I finished it, and do believe that it will provide an interesting book discussion.

While I enjoyed the historic backdrop and the character development, I feel that it got a bit draggy in the middle. I highly enjoyed the last 150 pages. They made the read worthwhile.

I enjoyed this venture into the aftermath of the sinking of the Titanic. This novel focuses upon the social, political, and financial consequences of this disaster. Alcott also throws in some interesting characters and a bit of romance.

Anthony Horowitz keeps the aura of Sherlock Holmes alive with his new series. I highly recommend this title to mystery lovers - especially those who love period pieces. Our book club readers really enjoyed this piece, even if they had never read a Sherlock Holmes story before. We also liked the 21st century sensibilities added to both Holmes and Watson.

This piece of historic fiction delivered on all accounts. The history was well blended into the tale. Both the character & plot development were well done. The romantic element was woven nicely into the story so that it didn't overshadow the historic or human elements.

Because of the topic, Early Onset Alzheimer Disease, this was not an easy book to read. It was made more difficult because it was narrated in first person by Alice, the victim of EOAD; therefore, making it even more challenging to follow the narrative. While I learned more about the science of this disease, I had a hard time connecting with the characters. While a few developed, most were self-centered, and it was hard to feel empathy for them.

I thoroughly enjoyed this fictionalized account of Ernest Hemingway's early life, told from the perspective of his first wife, Hadley Richardson. Paula McLain's writing allows a peek behind the scenes in the evocative life of Paris in the 20's. It also gives the reader a new perspective on Hemingway before he became famous for both his writings and his exploits.

I was mesmerized by this apocalyptic tale. I loved the interwoven tale of the survivors and the amazing way their lives were connected. Readers will be drawn to the characters and their plight as they begin the new age of the world. Highly recommended!

This was normal Grisham style with a great cast of characters and a plausible storyline. What sets this title apart is the strong female lead. I really enjoyed this title, and I recommend to both Grisham fans and those who have never read one of his novels.

This is an informative read. I appreciate Gawande's style. His interwoven discussions of medical practices with anecdotal evidence and historic perspective worked to convince me that we need a philosophical change for how our society approaches end of life issues.

I was not certain I could go into another story about Louisa after Will, but I am so glad that I did. Jojo Moyes creates finely drawn characters with realistic issues, choices, and fears. I love the quick dialogue, and the way Moyes draws you into the story with tears and laughter. I highly recommend this title, but only after you read ME BEFORE YOU. You MUST read them in order to appreciate the intricate story.

While this was a light holiday read, I didn't really enjoy it a great deal. While I found the Laura Levine story comical, I did not like the Joanne Fluke piece. My favorite was the "Gingerbread Cookies and Gunshots" by Leslie Meier. Because I liked both her writing style and the main character, Lucy Stone, I plan to read more of her books.

This foodie novel is great because it uncovers the intricacies of dealing with cancer treatments while developing a realistic family drama. While there is a romantic element & a Christian perspective, both serve as backdrops for the main story of the title characters - sisters who have never faced the effects from losing their mother to cancer. I enjoyed seeing the growth of the characters, and the story was enhanced, not overwhelmed, by the discussion of recipes, food pairing, and preparation of chemo-friendly dishes.

Another AMAZING tale from Jojo Moyes! Unlike ME BEFORE YOU & AFTER YOU, this novel flips between occupied France during WWII & current day London. As usual, Moyes presents finely drawn characters that readers can embrace & cheer along in the journey through the tightly woven tale of love, loss & sacrifice. I highly recommend this novel.

Paula Hawkins creates a tense thriller through the voices of three women... an ex-wife, the new wife, & a mercurial stranger. This reads a bit like the Hitchcock thriller Rear Window with a modern twist. What I loved about this book is that even while it develops the stereotype of the powerless woman, Hawkins moves us to see the strength of women when they fight together instead of fighting each other. I highly recommend this title - especially to book clubs.

This was an outstanding read. William Landay creates a murder mystery surrounded by a seemingly normal family... a family built on misunderstandings, lies, and mistrust. The only confusing element is the time-lapsed storytelling. The narrator begins with a testimony before a grand jury which becomes woven into the retelling of events. I highly recommend this title to anyone who enjoys Grisham's legal dramas. This would be a great choice for book clubs because there will be lots of responses to the choices the parents make.

Liane Moriarty is definitely one of my favorite authors. She presents such three-dimensional characters that a reader can invest in as the plot develops. I find myself thinking about her characters long after I finish the last page. While she presents just enough predictability to make a reader comfortable, she still surprises you with the directions that her plots and characters take by the end. This story made me reevaluate my life, relationships, and choices. I highly recommend this title.

While reading this title, I enjoyed learning more about small, natural science based vineyards. Laura Dave's lyrical writing brings the reader into the sensory setting of the family vineyard. This lush background becomes the setting for a story of siblings, parents, and lovers and the complicated relationships we share with them. Although there were some predictable elements, overall this was a good novel.

Tracy Chevalier does not disappoint with this one. Once again she is able to take characters that would appear to be secondary, almost dispensable characters, and turn them into sparkling characters that speak volumes with only a few words and thoughts. Both Elizabeth Philpot and Mary Anning jump off the pages through their words, relationships, and actions. I feel that I not only read a very satisfying tale about the power of the bonds between women, but also the early studies and discoveries in the field of paleontology. I highly recommend this title.

Daniel James Brown recreates the magic of the 1936 Gold medal-winning 8 man rowing team from the University of Washington. While I am not a fan of nonfiction, this piece kept me reading despite the fact that I knew how the story ended. Brown makes the reader want to find out the "rest of the story," not just the unbelievable ending race at the 1936 Olympics held in Nazi Germany. Most of this nonfiction narrative comes from the viewpoint of team member Joe Rantz. I would recommend this title to anyone interested in Olympic sports or anyone who likes to cheer for the underdogs. I enjoyed watching this collection of hard working young men and their coaches battle the sons of the privileged and the athletes who represented the Aryan superiority promoted by Hitler. It was uplifting to learn about the obstacles that the team had to overcome both individually and as a Washington team to reach their ultimate goal. This piece is well worth the read.

While the title is a jumping off point, Egan does not belabor the aphorism. I thoroughly enjoyed this read about how life changes when we least expect it. Alice, the main character, is a true example of the "sandwich generation" placed between raising a young family and aiding aging parents - while attempting to remake herself in a new, hip professional life. The family dynamics are realistic, but not daunting, and the growth of the characters is encouraging. An added dimension are the references to favorite books and authors, as well as the glimpse into the publishing world. I highly recommend this title.

I enjoyed this book, but what makes it a 3 instead of 4 is the predictability of certain elements of the plot. Ruth Ware does a nice job of unfolding the mystery while creating a modern twist on the big, creepy house on a deserted coast during a thunderstorm. This is Ware's debut novel. With her ability to write description and create interesting characters, I look forward to future titles.

Outstanding mystery! I have read one of Todd's books in his other mystery series, but this was the first in the Inspector Ian Rutledge series. It was a tightly written plot with just enough characters to make it interesting. The characters were genuine, not the overwritten, flamboyant characters seen too often in modern mysteries. I especially liked the depth of Inspector Rutledge's character. The only flaw was because of my ignorance of the area of Cornwall and some of the British elements. Beyond that, I think this title should appeal to most any mystery fan; I highly recommend it.

Although this was just a fun, fluffy read, I enjoyed the narrator's wit and expression. I know that the setting is anything but realistic, but her life as a mom of a toddler and tween was very real. I also learned about elements of the spiritual battle as it is waged within the Catholic faith. If you just want to read some escapist lit, this is a good series to check out.

This tale takes readers on a jaunt around NYC in the "It" dress of the season. The dress appears in expected & not-so-expected places on a variety of women. Readers get to peek into their lives along the way. I thoroughly enjoyed this quick, witty read. It has just enough conflict, humor, & romance to keep you guessing and reading. I recommend this as a quick, fun read.

Kristin Hannah finely crafts her characters so that by the end of her books, you are still thinking about them and the consequences of their actions. I enjoyed the story of Lexi and the Farraday family, but some events were a bit predictable and others were a bit contrived. I still would recommend this title.

This my first book by Emma Donoghue. I was completely drawn in by her very delicate character development. The characters evolve so subtly that at times it took my breath away when a new development was uncovered. I highly recommend this title that questions so many things we all take for granted...

While I found this title predictable, perhaps others will not. I liked several of the minor characters, and parts of the story were interesting, but overall I was not thrilled with this novel. I found the writing and character development to be a bit flat and uninspired. On a positive note, the foreshadowing worked well.

I expected a fluffy beach read, but what I got was a well-written family drama. The characters evolve, but the changes are realistic, not stereotypical. Because the chapters alternate between the 1st person narration of the husband & wife at the center of this story, it felt a bit predictable. As the tale progresses and the rather large portion of flashback is presented, the reader begins to see more developed characters with relatable emotions and responses. Beyond the characters, I loved the descriptions of Charleston, SC so much that I hope to take a short trip there in the fall! I highly recommend this title for female book clubs because there will be lots to discuss.

This was my first Lisa Scottoline novel; at first, I was discouraged by her long sections of narrative, but it pays off in the end because of her careful character development. After her meticulous development, she allows the reader to just set back and watch her intricate plot play out. I also enjoyed the narrator's connection with both the worlds of teaching and police work. I would not recommend this title to anyone who wants a quick read, but if you are looking for a satisfying story with a well thought out plot, pick this one up.

Since Noah Hawley is an experienced screenwriter, it came as no surprise that this novel was very cinematic. I enjoyed this element; it was easy to "see" the action, characters, & settings in the story. What I didn't enjoy was the crass, vulgar dialogue, especially from many of the male characters. While I understood that it was used to build a character, I still think that it was exaggerated and gratuitous in spots. Otherwise, this thriller was entertaining, and the social commentary on the power of the media was very interesting.

I highly recommend this debut novel that takes readers into the little known world of research & tourism in Antarctica. The pacing of the novel is well done, and the character development is realistic. Some readers might struggle with the fluid timeline, but Raymond does an excellent job of labeling each switch to help guide the reader. While there are political statements about global warming and damages to natural areas from tourism, Raymond is not heavy-handed with these topics. They occur quite naturally as they woven through the fabric of the tale.

This debut novel really kept me reading & guessing! The characters are quirky and believable as is the twisted plot. The fact that a bookstore is the major setting for the novel made it even more fun. I highly recommend this novel.

Interesting read - especially with the accuracy of the historic elements.

While this novel began in an almost stand-up comedy style, the heart of the story goes much deeper. Bunmi Laditan draws attention, mostly through humor, to the glaring differences between the ideal mother and the reality of motherhood - especially in social media. I could relate to the idea that we make our lives more difficult than they need be purely by focusing on what others say they are achieving. I recommend this title to new parents {as if they have time to read novels :)} or parents of young children, but any mother could relate to the trials of Ashley.

It was interesting to learn the history of the devastating wildfires in Maine in the late 1940's, but the I struggled with the characters in this novel. The relationship, while believable for the time period, just made me angry. I wanted to grab Gene out of the book and slap him silly!

This book goes way beyond its premise of forcing a family into a weeklong quarantine with little connection to the outside world. It develops a completely foreign family dynamic for the parents, two grown daughters, a fiance, and a new, unknown family member. I thoroughly enjoyed unwrapping the story with some well written dramatic irony (I knew things that the characters did not). I look forward to Francesca Hornak's next foray into fictional writing.

Once again Elin Hilderbrand visits Martha's Vineyard & Nantucket for this title. She paints both islands with her lyrical descriptions and fills them with interesting characters tangled in past relationships, old wounds, and new romances. The focus are adult twins who are divided by past mistakes and current missteps. A daughter and niece finds herself trying to grow up and understand her place amongst this fractured family. I found this read enjoyable as much for the settings as the characters and plot.

This was a fabulous read, but some basic knowledge about Russian history is needed to appreciate Count Rostov's years of house arrest in the majestic Metropol, the grand hotel located across from the Kremlin. Amor Towles crafts an intricate tale with characters that endear themselves to a reader. By the end of the novel, I wanted to share dinner with Rostov at the Boyarsky, meet the one-eyed cat, and explore the hotel with Nina. I highly recommend this tale, but be prepared to take your time getting into the story. Don't give up!

An excellent mystery/thriller! This was my first Mary Kubica novel, but it probably will not be my last. The character development and dual narration add just enough errieness to this woven tale, and Kubica leaves readers subtle clues throughout to lead us to a satisfying ending.

Excellent romance about trust and new beginnings. Highly recommended for any time of the year, not just the holidays.

This short novel doesn't have the trademark King violence or eeriness, but it does have a healthy dose of magical realism. The main character is dealing with a strange weight loss issue while his neighbors are dealing with a nasty case of discrimination. The two stories intertwine to provide a satisfying conclusion. I was intrigued by the reviews, and I was happy to see the level of storytelling King accomplishes in under 150 pages. I highly recommend this title - not because I agree with everything it presents, but because it forces the reader to question their own biases. It would be a great title for book clubs because of its compact nature and because of the issues it brings to light.

Fredrik Backman weaves a wonderful, yet painful, story about a town that is defined by its main sport - hockey. The quality of the writing, character development, and plot structure is evident because although hockey is at the center of the tale, anyone can relate. It is the culture of winning at all costs that is truly at the core of this conflict... so change the hockey to show choir, 4-H, baseball, rodeo, etc. and the story remains the same. How far will a town go to protect what is most important to them, and in the end the question is the same... what is really important to us? I loved this story; the only reason it is a 4 instead of a 5 is the language and vulgarity of the real and proverbial "locker room." While I understand the necessity for gritty realism in the story, I still was continually stung by sections of dialogue. Because of this, I would be wary of putting this book into the hands of teens, even though the content is so timely for young adults and teens.

The world Jon Cohen creates in Harry's Trees is one of love, loss, magic, redemption, and hope. I highly recommend this title for readers who still want to believe in the power of magic, hope, and love.

While I learned a great deal about Indian culture by reading this family narrative, I can't say that I enjoyed the story. The characters weren't as developed as I would have liked, and the structure of the story was extremely confusing. Each of the five family members told parts of the story from their perspective. I normally enjoy this structure, but the narrator changes were abrupt and without logical connections so it was easy to get lost in the narrative.

Amazing dramatization of the life of the goddess Circe, daughter of Helios and Perce. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey through the lives and adventures of Greek gods & goddesses, Titans, and Olympians. I cannot recommend this novel to everyone, but for readers with some knowledge of Greek mythology, I highly recommend it. I promise that you will not need to reference your copy of Bullfinch's Mythology because Miller has a way of weaving the characters into a very readable tale.

Kent Haruf makes the reader ponder if we are ever really too old for romance. This simply-told story made me look at late-in-life relationships in a whole new way. I highly recommend this title for those who appreciate a quiet love story.

This historic fiction set in southeastern Ohio is well written with characters that a reader can care about. Montgomery does an excellent job of weaving the historic elements into a believable tale of love, loss, and redemption. I especially enjoyed the glimpse into the early years of coal miners fighting for the right to unionize. The strong female characters were also a strong element in this tale. I highly recommend this title and can't wait to read the next installment in the Kinship series.

Another fabulous book by Jojo Moyes, but it is so very different than her others. This title centers on the courageous Packhorse Librarians of Kentucky. Moyes brings us a story rich in the trials of women in general in the late 1930's, but she embeds the tale into the program created by the WPA during the Great Depression. I highly recommend this title.

I highly recommend this timely title.
The audio version of this title was fabulous because the story is told in two distinct viewpoints, & the two actresses bring these voices alive as the girls live through one chaotic night of confusion, violence, and realization.

This debut novel from Rita Woods is amazing; I highly recommend it! She creates characters that come to life as their stories unwind and are aptly woven together. The voices of these women of color from different countries, regions, and circumstances pull the reader into the story that wanders between present day Ohio, Pre-Civil War New Orleans, and Colonial Haiti of the late 1700's. I went between the print version and the audiobook. I enjoyed the audiobook read by the talented Ella Turenne and highly recommend this version.

While predictable in spots, this romcom is excellent! It brings to light the very scripted reality of so-called reality TV. It also shines a light on fat shaming & biases toward all manner of real people living real lives. While readers might feel it is over-the-top with nonconformist lifestyles, I felt it was a well written vehicle to bring so may ideas to light. First & foremost, it was a fun read with a very likable main character, Bea. I highly recommend this title, but be forewarned that there are triggers like language & open door scenes.

Loved the realistic interaction between three sisters who are taking over the family business - wedding planning. Highly recommended read for fans of sisterhood stories with romance woven into them.

This twisted tale begins with the familiar woman scorned trope, but don't quit reading. The authors will send you spinning in "Part Two"! Well worth the read. I recommend this book for readers who don't want to figure it all out until the last page.

This is the first Lisa Jewell I have read; it will not be the last. She crafted an amazing tale that literally doesn't unfold completely until the last page. The best part is that she takes the reader along smoothly through the twists and turns with believable characters is realistic situations. I highly recommend this tale.

This book whisks the reader away to Tehran in 1953 - a year of change for both Iran and the young lovers, Roya & Bahman. I highly recommend this title to readers who love to learn about life in other places during other times. Also, readers who love to see stories that move, waver, and develop over time will love the backstories that fill in the blanks.

This debut holiday novel is outstanding. The characters were so well developed that I will remember them fondly for a long time. I highly recommend this British rom-com.

I highly recommend this title. The witty banter and the writing challenge set it apart from other romances.

An uplifting story of grace, redemption, & God's unfailing love in the midst of the messiness of life & sorrow. I highly recommend it for a quick, joyful read.

A funny, sweet romcom with no bad language or sex. Refreshing. Highly recommended.

Great new entry into the WWII historic fiction genre. It is a story of women who face adversity and choose to fight back. I highly recommend this title - especially to those who love foodie titles.

The cast of characters are truly unforgettable. The tale is woven effortlessly throughout to engage the reader in this Thursday Murder Club. It's members lives in a retirement community & peruse old cold cases as a hobby until murder comes to them.

I learned a great deal in this book of historic fiction about the politics and espionage of the Cold War. I had no idea that the publication & distribution of Doctor Zhivago was such a big project. I related to "typing pool" because my mother dealt with many of the same issues as a woman in the workforce in the sixties. I recommend it to those who like historic fiction.

Megan Miranda weaves a tale of deceit, secrets, and misunderstanding between neighbors, families, and lovers.

MMA competition is not a topic I was familiar with before reading Carmen Schober's novel. I enjoyed the journey of Adri and Max and all the other delightful characters in this tale. Highly recommended, especially if you find yourself in a reading rut. This one will challenge you to experience the intensive training that goes into this sport and the mindset of a young woman who feels that she has lost control over her life.