On The BookShelf

The Odds by Stewart O'Nan

2012-01-28T08:17:00.000-08:00

A contemporary story about a middle-aged couple who are on the brink of bankruptcy. They decide to visit Niagra Falls, the place of their honeymoon. While there they plan to play in the casino and hope to recoup some of their money. They do a bit of sight-seeing by day and play roulette by night.

An honest look at what it takes to save yourself from the brink of emotional and financial disaster.

Ladybookbug!

Fifth Victim by Zoe Sharp

2012-01-25T09:24:00.000-08:00

Charlie Fox, ex-Special Forces soldier has been assigned to bodyguard the daughter of a rich banker in the Hamptons. A series of kidnappings has the parents in the area concerned about the welfare of their offspring.

Charlie discovers that watching over a tough customer is not easy. She begins to look more closely at the crimes and discovers that it is an inside job. She is able to pinpoint the perpetrators after having a close call.

This is a fast-paced, well constructed thriller written by someone who knows her craft well.

Ladybookbug!

Need You Now by James Grippando

2012-01-23T07:41:00.000-08:00

This latest entry is a fast-paced thriller with all the bells and whistles.

Patrick Lloyd is an advisor on Wall Street. He and his girlfriend Lilly become immeshed in the loss of billions of dollars from some unsavory investors. Lilly soon realizes that the information she has could be deadly. She and Patrick join together in an attempt to reveal the truth.

Witness Protection, the mob, the FBI and some nebulous characters all come together to create this "hard to put down" mystery.

Lady Bookbug!

The Bungalow by Sarah Jio

2012-01-12T08:49:00.000-08:00

A gentle novel which takes place on the island of Bora Bora during WWII, this is the second entry for this author.

Anne, an upper-crust young lady decides to forgo her impending wedding nuptials in favor of traveling to Bora Bora to be an army nurse. During her tour of duty she discovers a little bungalow on the beach and it becomes a tryst for Anne and her new love.

A murder takes place and Anne and her friend witness it. Anne recovers the murder weapon and decides to hide it in the sand. She and her friend keep the secret for over 40 years.

While the ending is predictable, this is still worth a read.

Ladybookbug!

Lost December by Richard Paul Evans

2011-12-20T11:27:00.000-08:00

A new twist to an old old story, this latest entry by Mr. Evans is a light entry just in time for the holiday season.

Luke Crisp in on a journey. The reader will view it as a journey of destruction but Luke views it differently at first. He longs to be part of a group of friends, having been a loner for most of his life. He is taken advantage of and chooses to ignore it until he is left without friends and without money.

The prodigal son is an old story but worth telling again in a contemporary fashion. It reminds us how quickly life can change and how a second chance to redeem oneself is just around the corner.

Ladybookbug!

Growing Up Amish by Ira Wagler

2011-11-26T11:01:00.000-08:00

An interesting memoir into the daily lives of the Amish.

Ira is one of eleven siblings and tells his story beautifully. The reader is taken into the intracasies of living Amish and the stuggles Ira faces as he leaves the community and returns several times.

I visited his blog and found out more information about Ira. I wish he had included it in an epilogue, but was pleasantly surprised to learn about his accomplishments in later years on his blog. He has several essays he has written there as well and they are worth reading. Looking forward to reading more of his writings in the future, I remain....

Ladybookbug!

V is for Vengeance by Sue Grafton

2011-11-21T07:00:00.001-08:00

Another Kinsey Milhone masterpiece.

This story starts off with Kinsey witnessing a shop-lifting incident. This leads to an assignment by the financee of the perpetrator and suddenly she is up to her ears in trouble.

A fast-paced tumble into the underworld of the mob, this latest entry takes the reader into a well-organized thriving underground business. How two deaths, a lonely widower, an unhappy socialite and a gangster meld together is the stuff of good investigating.

I am beginning to see the parallels between Evanovich and Grafton. Since I like both writers, I am lucky to experience twice the enjoyment.

Read on!

Ladybookbug!

Martha's Entertaining by Martha Stewart

2011-11-03T13:30:00.000-07:00

I seldom review a book of this nature on my blog but I simply could not help myself.

This is a remarkable book. The photographs of people, places and food are exquisite.
The descriptions invite the reader to take part in the celebration and one can almost taste the food.

I came away with many wonderful ideas about table settings, locations and menus.

Thank you Martha for once again showing us that you do entertaining well.

Ladybookbug!

The Night Strangers by Chris Bohjalian

2011-10-11T10:37:00.000-07:00

I almost did not pick this book up because it is a ghost story. But, I have to tell you it was a fast-paced, well-written read and I really enjoyed it. Yes, parts of the story are familiar to me as concepts that have been looked at before. However, Mr. Bohjalian puts it all together very well.

The setting is an old house in northern New Hampshire. A young couple with twin girls moves in. The husband, a former airline pilot, and his wife, a lawyer hope to make a fresh start in their new home. Things start getting mysterious when the husband discovers a door in the basement with 39 bolts across it. Thirty-nine just happens to be the number of people killed in a tragic airplane crash that is all too familiar to the husband.

A group of herbalists in the small town take an interest in the twin girls and things start to move quickly as the girls become immeshed in learning the properties of herbs.

Another great read from a great author.

Ladybookbug!

The Affair by Lee Child

2011-09-29T10:01:00.000-07:00

Reading a Jack Reacher novel is about exciting as one can get. In this latest entry by Child, Jack moves back in time to the year 1997. He is still in the army and he's a mean son of a gun.

He's been asked to go undercover to try to determine what is happening at an army base in Mississippi. He is bent on finding out everything he can but when he arrives he realizes there is much more happening than meets the eye.

The local sherriff is very involved in everything that's going on and she and Jack begin working together to unlock the mystery. In the end it's about a conspiracy at the highest level.

Child keeps the reader guessing as to who is the mastermind. When all is said and done, we may not be so surprised after all.

For readers of the Jack Reacher novels--this is a must!

Ladybookbug!

Lethal by Sandra Brown

2011-09-26T07:01:00.001-07:00

As fast-paced as the tv series "24", Ms. Browns new novel is comparable. Honor Gillete, widow of a local police officer is taken aback when a man is discovered by her four year old daughter lying face down in her front yard.

Lee Coburn is a force to be reckoned with. He is the subject of a state-wide man hunt, having allegedly murdered seven people he is on the run and decides to take Honor and her daughter hostage, but not before ramsacking the entire house in search for something that her late husband had.

And so begins a consumate thriller with Coburn and Honor tracking across the countryside, one step ahead of the people that are searching for them. The local police and the FBI are also involved in the manhunt.

This entry will keep you reading on, just coming up for a breath of fresh air now and again. The makings of a great movie.

Ladybookbug!

In The Garden of Beasts by Erik Larson

2011-09-19T09:42:00.000-07:00

Erik Larson is one of those authors who can take a historic happening and create an interesting story. His other titles include Devil in the White City and Isaacs Storm, both of which are wonderfully written. This latest entry is no different.

We are taken back to the year 1933 when Hitler was rising to power in Germany. The story takes place primarily in Berlin. William Dodd has been appointed as United States Ambassador and moves with his family to the city. Many of us are well-read on the subject but Mr. Larson takes us there from a different perspective. Readers will become immersed in the day to day activities of an ambassador, his family, and the rise of the Third Reich.

I believe all of Mr. Larson's work should be required reading for high school students. His work would go a long way toward inspiring students to read more about the historic subjects he has chosen.

Whether or not you are a history buff--you will learn something from In the Garden of Beasts

Ladybookbug!

The Stranger You Seek by Amanda Kyle Williams

2011-09-12T08:00:00.000-07:00

This is the first work I have read by this author. More than likely I will try her again. My complaint with it was that it was a bit too graphic for me.

I did like the heroine, Keye Street, a former FBI profiler who has been enlisted by the Atlanta Police Department to help in solving a series of murders that have all the earmarks of a serial killer.

As Keye becomes more embroiled with the murders, she begins to realize that the killer is closer than she thought and she must be ever vigilant for the next strike.

A well written foray into the mind and actions of a serial killer. If you are into thrillers that keep you guessing until the end--this one's for you!

Ladybookbug!

I’ll Walk Alone by Mary Higgins Clark

2011-09-10T07:25:00.000-07:00

I have read EVERY book this author has written. Some have been great and others just lukewarm. This is one falls in between.

Zan, short for Alexandra Moreland is a successful interior decorator. She discovers that someone is getting into her credit card accounts and bank accounts and doing a considerable amount of damage in the process.

Zan is also the mother of Matthew who was abducted from his stroller while being babysat in a park. She is tormented by his memory and believes he is still alive although she has no evidence to the contrary.

Though not exactly thriller quality, it is an okay read. If you’re happy with a light foray into identity theft and kidnapping, you’ll not want to miss this one. I did not figure out who the culprit was until late in the book.

Ladybookbug!

Night Road by Kristin Hannah

2011-08-27T11:26:00.000-07:00

A prolific author-- her works include True Colors, Summer Island and my personal favorite, On Mystic Lake. I often keep a writing pad handy while reading her novels because there is sure to be a sentence or two that I’d like to remember.

This is the story of friendship and love. Three teenagers become friends. Mia and Zack are twins whose overprotective mother has harbored them in safety from the time they were born. She becomes anxious at the start of this novel as the twins are entering high school. Lexi moves into town and becomes best friends with Mia (who is a bit reclusive). The friendship endures all the trials and tribulations of the teenage years. Eventually Lexi and Zach become an item. The three teens become immersed in each others lives.

A tragedy occurs on a dark road after a night of partying and promises. Lexi rises up to the consequences of her actions and proves to be of strong character. We clearly see how powerful the bonds of love can be and that forgiveness gives us the ability to move forward

Kristin Hannah fans will not want to miss this one.

Ladybookbug!

The Worst Thing by Aaron Elkins

2011-08-22T06:20:00.001-07:00

Imagine you are a young boy. Imagine you are kidnapped. Imagine you are held in a dark, dank place with a metal cuff around your neck. Imagine you are released and left to a life filled with panic attacks and a fear of enclosed places. Imagine the worst thing that could happen to you. This is the story of Bryan Bennett in this new novel by Aaron Elkins.

Bryan chooses perhaps the most appropriate career choice, given his past experiences.
He becomes a trainer in hostage negotiations. He is careful not to get close to either the kidnappers or the victims, fearful that he will have a meltdown. He also cannot travel much to the disappointment of his wife.

As fate would have it, his company offers him an opportunity to present a program in Iceland. The Icelantic company specifically asks for Bryan and after much pursuasion by his boss and his wife, he agrees to go.

What happens next is sure to unravel Bryan and as a reader, we begin to experience his terror.

This is a well thought out novel and one you'll not want to miss.

Ladybookbug!

The Accident by Linwood Barclay

2011-08-13T13:23:00.000-07:00

There are mystery writers and then there are consumate mystery writers. Linwood Barclay falls into the second category and his latest tale is no exception.

The accident begins with a car accident. One car is perched on an egress ramp. Inside is a women who has expired. Apparently she was also drunk. Another car hit her head on and three people are dead as a result.

This is just the beginning of a series of unexplained circumstances. There is subterfuge, murder, blackmail, and lust in this story. At one point you might find yourself wondering just who the culprit is.

I really liked this story. It had me going around in circles a couple of times. I was as confused as the main character and did not connect all the dots until the very end.

If you love thrillers, you'll love this.

Ladybookbug!

Darkness My Old Friend by Lisa Unger

2011-08-13T06:37:00.000-07:00

Jones Cooper retired from the police force. He lives in The Hallows, a place riddled with mystery and darkness. Eloise is a psychic who comes to see him about a vision. He is skeptical but can't totally dismiss her either.

Meanwhile, 15 year-old Willow, a newcomer to The Hallows is disgruntled because her mother moved her from the city to this sparsley populated rural area. She is having difficulty making friends and feels quite isolated. One day she is walking through the woods and finds a man digging something. She is frightened and runs away quickly, dropping her cell phone.

In addition, Michael Holt has returned to town after the death of his father. He is in search of clues that might explain why his mother disappeared when he was a teenager.

All of these separate stories work together to form a good mystery. Readers of Ungers other books might recognize the town as it was the setting in Fragile as well.

Ladybookbug!

Back of Beyond by C.J. Box

2011-08-11T09:19:00.000-07:00

Cody Hoyt is a renigade police officer. Struggling with alcohol, he accidentally shoots the coroner. He's put on probation but that doesn't stop him from trying to solve a crime.

He hires an outfitter and together they embark on a trip through Yellowstone National Park to locate a horseback trip. Suddenly, they come across several victims and the hunt intensifies.

This is a well thought out thriller. Box keeps you guessing until the very end. It's a stand alone and I did miss Joe Pickett but it's definitely worth reading.

Ladybookbug!

The Sixes by Kate White

2011-08-08T06:39:00.001-07:00

A thriller from one of our popular mystery writers.

It all takes place on a sleepy college campus in Pennsylvania where Phoebe Hall has been asked to teach a course by her childhood friend who is the dean. It all begins with the discovery of a dead body in the river. The victim is someone Phoebe had a conversation with a few days before.

Phoebe is asked to look into the possibility of a secret society on campus that may be linked to the victim. Amidst danger to herself Phoebe gets closer to discovering what is happening.

A well thought out mystery that had me guessing till the very end.

Ladybookbug!

Rescue by Anita Shreve

2011-08-04T10:19:00.000-07:00

So—I LOVED The Pilot’s Wife and Light on Snow and Testimony were great as well. This latest entry is just okay.

It is the story of rescues. From the main character, a paramedic on a rescue squad, to the rescue of his soon-to-be wife and the rescue of his teenaged daughter. My guess is you might call it a drama. A mediocre story that did keep me moving on but it was not enlightening, nor was it compelling.

If you are a Shreve fan, you’ll not want to overlook this but I wouldn’t give it any stars.

Ladybookbug!

Split Second by Catherine Coulter

2011-07-18T08:05:00.000-07:00

What a disappointment! In spades! It was good to read about the Savitch Sherlock team but the story lines left a lot to be desired. The fact of the matter is if it can't really happen, then I don't want to read about it. The author had three story lines in this novel. It was all I could do to keep them straight. When she finally brought them to an end, I was disappointed in two of them and thought the other story line was just okay.

Read it if you must but don't expect a fast-paced thriller-it's just not happening.

Ladybookbug!

Trespasser by Paul Doiron

2011-07-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

A new author to this reader, Mr. Doiron is currently the editor-in-chief of Down East: The Magazine of Maine. Coincidentally, Maine is where this thriller takes place.

A young woman hits a deer on a lonely stretch of road. When the local ranger goes to investigate, the woman and the deer are nowhere to be found. The only thing there besides the vehicle is a large blood stain on the pavement.

Further investigation leads to the discovery of a body which reflects similar characteristics of a murder that happened seven years ago.

This is the second book in a new series by this author. The first is entitled The Poacher's Son Some references are made to the first book in this entry.

The author kept this reader in suspense until the very end. If you like a good murder mystery then this one's for you.

Ladybookbug!

Escape by Barbara Delinsky

2011-07-09T07:06:00.000-07:00

Emmy is a lawyer. She's in a job that she hates but is greatful with the economy the way it is that she has a job at all. He husband is also a lawyer with a high pressure law firm. They live in New York City and are controlled by the stressors of their lives.

On day Emmy decides to leave it all. She travels to a town in New England where she finds a safe haven. She reconnects with several old friends and takes time to discover who she is. Her husband is bereft and doesn't understand what it happening.

This is a story of escape to a better present and a better future and not letting technology get the better of us.

Ladybookbug!

Silver Girl Elin Hilderbrand

2011-06-27T06:06:00.000-07:00

Yes! This is a book by one of my favorite authors.

Silvergirl is all about Meredith Martin Delinn. She is married to Freddie, the perpetrator of yet another Ponzi scheme. Freddie is in jail and Meredith has decided to take a sabbatical in Nantucket at the home of her childhood friend Connie.

Unfortunately there are several people on Nantucket who lost their fortunes to Freddie and they are bent on restitution of sorts. Meredith is hardpressed to keep her anonymity and Connie does her best by supplying Meredith with a wig and new glasses.

Ms. Hilderbrand draws us all in again. I did not want to leave the story and got caught up in the lives of Dave, Connie, Meredith and Toby. Each comes to the plot with their own hangups but the reader doesn't mind. After all, it's what makes the story more interesting.

Not my favorite Hilderbrand book--that spot goes to Blue Bistro. Nonetheless it is a good read.

Ladybookbug!

The Blue Nowhere by Jeffrey Deaver

2011-06-06T13:50:00.000-07:00

If you are into computers-you will LOVE this mystery. It was actually written several years ago but I just came across it recently. I could not put it down.

It's about a real savvy computer genious who uses his abilities to get down and dirty. He manages to get into people's personal computers and with his focus on terminating their lives. The more people say no one can break through their protective walls, the more of a challenge they present and the more he wants to prove them wrong.

The authorities recruit a prisioner to help them thwart the hacker's plans. Gillette uses all his talents to try to capture the hacker.

This is an interesting plot and a scary one at that. A good quick read that has turns and twists to keep you guessing until the very last minute.

Ladybookbug!

Damaged by Alex Kava

2011-05-28T06:50:00.000-07:00

Maggie O'Dell, FBI profiler returns in this eighth novel about O'Dell. It opens with the discovery of a cooler filled with wrapped body parts found off the coast of Pensacola. She is joined by a cast of characters including her love interest Colonel Benjamin Platt, Liz Bailey (search and rescue for the Coast Guard), Liz's Dad, Liz's brother-in-law funeral director and the mysterious Joe Black.

Readers are thrust into the pending doom of a major hurricane about to hit the coast. Maggie is called in to figure out where the body parts came from. Col Platt is called to a nearyby military post to determine why soldiers are dying from a mysterious bacterium.

This was a good mystery. The premise was easy to follow, the setting was realistic and the characters were believable.

Worth the read!

Ladybookbug!

Cold Dawn by Carla Neggers

2011-05-26T13:19:00.000-07:00

This is the third book in the "Black Falls" Trilogy. We again visit the Cameron family as Rose Cameron, search and rescue expert, discovers a burned body near her home in Black Falls. Nick Martini is also a main character in this segment of the trilogy. He is a smoke jumper who was involved in an arson case in California. The trail leads him to Black Falls in search of a killer.

Having read all three books in this series, I think I can say that this entry was not my favorite. I had to keep stopping through the story to try to figure out who all the characters were. This did not have the intense mystery that I like about this author.

Read it if you must!

Ladybookbug!

Bill Warrington's Last Chance by James King

2011-05-16T08:29:00.000-07:00

The main character, Bill Warrington is an old man. Suffering from some form of dementia, he is hell-bent on redeeming himself. He sets off on a cross-country trip with his granddaughter in tow. His children are frustrated and disturbed by the whole thing and set about to try to follow the clues he has sent them to find him.

This is the first entry for this author and though not a book to necessarily write home about, it is an interesting story which could be true in this time of aging baby boomers.

Ladybookbug!

The Hidden by Bill Pronzini

2011-05-02T13:44:00.000-07:00

I must admit, I haven’t read Bill Pronzini’s books in quite a while but this one is worth the read.

If you are a mystery buff who loves the howling wind, the rain pouring down a dark winding road, and a serial killer, then you are in for a treat.

Shelby and Jack Macklin decide to give their marriage a jump start and take a friend up on the loan of his coastal cottage for a few days. They have some difficulty finding it, so they enlist the aid of a local police officer. While ensconced in the cottage they encounter some troubled neighbors and are caught up in a brutal winter storm.

While this entry is no Lee Childs or Harlan Coben, it stands up straight as a good mystery.

Ladybookbug!

The Sixth Man by David Baldacci

2011-04-25T07:26:00.000-07:00

Edgar Roy has been incarcerated at a supermax prison off the coast of Maine. He has been arrested for murdering six men, found in the barn on his property in a remote area of Virginia.

Ted Bergin has agreed to represent him and has called on his old friend Sean King and his partner Michelle Maxwell to assist him in the investigation. They find themselves right in the middle of a mystery when they discover Ted, shot to death.

A fast-paced thriller that has the reader second-guessing every character. You'll find this book hard to put down.

Ladybookbug!

A Heartbeat Away by Michael Palmer

2011-04-20T11:27:00.001-07:00

A consumate thriller by one of America's best writers, this latest entry by Michael Palmer will take your breath away.

It all begins with the President giving his State of the Union address in the Capitol building. Suddenly fumes are released and the lights go out. Mass confusion erupts and it takes all the effort the President can muster to reign it in.

In his desperation to solve the situation, the President must release a prisoner and hope that he can find the solution quickly.

If you love thrillers, you won't want to miss this one.

Ladybookbug!

Hell’s Corner by David Baldacci

2011-04-12T11:12:00.000-07:00

After a slow start, this book took off like a bat out of hell and kept this reader on the edge till the very end. I did have my predictions and they did ring true but this was still a thriller in the real sense of the word.

Stone and his Camel Club are back, mixed with a few new characters. The story line is plausible and a bit daunting. It’s difficult to tell you too much about it without “leaking” pertinent facts so suffice to say-read it!

It takes place in Washington, D.C. in an area aka Lafayette Park. It’s a small piece of land located across from the White House. A bomb goes off and the puzzle begins.

A great read from a consistently good author.

Ladybookbug!

Afraid of the Dark by James Grippando

2011-04-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

Jack Swyteck, criminal defense lawyer is back in this gripping tale of computer espionage and evil.

Sergant Vince Paulo has been given the charge of watching over 16 year-old Mckenna, the daughter of a good friend. Unfortunately, a tragedy occurs and Vince will have to live with it for the rest of his life. Jack enters the picture as the defense lawyer who will represent the person who murdered McKenna.

Vince and Jack join forces to uncover the dark side. They end up traveling to foreign ports in search of some answers.

Interesting plot but not one of his best.

Ladybookbug!

Now You See Her by Joy Fielding

2011-03-31T12:15:00.000-07:00

Marcy Taggart is at a milestone birthday. She has also suffered two great loses. She has decided to go on a pre-planned trip to Ireland by herself.

Unable to deal with the death of her daughter, two years prior, she firmly believes that she is alive and in Ireland. She shows her photograph to all she comes in contact with. She becomes embroiled in a series of mishaps and ends up at the police station. The police think she is a bit out of sorts. One thing leads to another and Marcy finds herself overhearing a kidnapping plot. In true Joy Fielding fashion, this is a fast-paced mystery with a surprise ending.

While a little light in the thriller category, you will find yourself wanting to read it in one sitting.

Ladybookbug!

Cold Wind by C.J. Box

2011-03-28T07:37:00.000-07:00

Another Joe Pickett novel set in the rolling plains of Wyoming, the new home of the wind turbine.

Joe's mother-in-law Missy is in a pickle. She's been accused of murdering her fourth husband, Earl. Joe's wife Mary Beth is less than pleased with his cavalier attitude about it all. As the story moves on, Joe realizes that he needs to get more involved and sets out on his own to investigate.

Nate Romanowski's character comes into play again. Hiding out in a remote area, someone discovers where he is and a tragedy ensues. Nate is bent on revenge and takes out all the stops to find out who perpetrated the crime.

Two crimes, two men intent on uncovering what happened, who did it and why was it done.

C.J. Box fans will not want to miss this one!

Ladybookbug.

Left Neglected by Lisa Genova

2011-03-26T07:21:00.000-07:00

Looking through the new books at the library in search of a good title, I came across Left Neglected. A smaller book in size than contemporary works of fiction, its' cover shows an apple with leaves on it, looking neglected.

Sarah Nickerson is a career-drive wife and mother of three. She does it all remarkably well with the help of her husband and a nanny. We are privy to her high-pressure job as she taps away at her laptop and texts on her phone. Her husband Bob has some stress of his own as hangs onto his job by a thread while searching for something new.

On a rainy day, a tragedy occurs, sending Sarah into a totally new environment where she must learn to re-think all that is familiar to her. He mother enters the picture after a long absence and Sarah's thoughts about rekindling their relationship change as well.

This story deals with an unfamiliar topic to me--Left neglect. This is a condition where a person cannot see or recognize the left side of the body. It happens to people suffering from strokes and traumatic brain injury, among other conditions. The author, whose background includes a doctorate in neuroscience, presents the intricacies of the phenomenon in an informative manner within the context of a story.

A book that is both entertaining and educational, Left Neglected, is one you will not put down quickly.

Ladybookbug!

Live Wire by Harlan Coben

2011-03-21T08:29:00.000-07:00

Here we go---another book by another one of my favorite authors. To begin with I REALLY like his stand-alone books. I am not a great fan of his Myron Bolitar character. That being said - you will want to read this book.

Coben goes a long way to develop the character of Myron. We see him as a lover, brother, son, uncle and partner in his business enterprise. As far as his business goes,his clientele has changed a bit over the years and he now represents musicians as well. It appears from the start that all the roads are connected. However, as the storyline progresses there are new twists and turns.

Although I was not motivated at the start of this read, I quickly became engrossed in the story and found it to be interesting. Coben kept this reader moving right along, wanting to find out how it all comes out in the end.

Ladybookbug!

Love You More by Lisa Gardner

2011-03-17T11:15:00.000-07:00

In the last title I read by this author, Live to Tell, my complaint was that she did not develop the character of D.D. Warren enough for my tastes. In this title, she brings back D.D. Warren and I was placated. Although Ms. Gardner does admit to not wanting to revisit characters in her books (see notes at end), I was pleased to read more about the character. Granted, the focus of the book is on the crime that was committed and I suppose some schools of thought agree with that premise.

In this book, we are introduced to a female state trooper who appears to have killed her husband, after being battered about. In addition, her 6-year old daughter has gone missing and the lady trooper is not talking. All local police officers converge on the scene and things become a bit complicated.

This is an interesting whodunit with lots of twists and turns. It is a quickly moving mystery, not one that is easily solved. As the author lets the reader in on what really happened, you can start to connect the dots. A good read for a rainy afternoon.

Ladybookbug!

Sing you home by Jodi Picoult

2011-03-14T07:12:00.000-07:00

If there's one thing you can always count on from this author--it's that the subject matter is always controversial. This latest entry is no exception. In it we deal with an alternative lifestyle and frozen embryos.

A closer look at our legal system and the fundamentalist's viewpoint present a well-rounded picture of both topics.

In addition to the story, readers also get to listen to a CD which contains ten songs the author has written the lyrics for.

If you are a Jodi Picoult fan, you won't want to miss this one. If not--try it you might like it and want to read the others.

Ladybookbug!

Minding Frankie by Maeve Binchy

2011-03-07T06:50:00.000-08:00

What a delightful story! Maeve Binchy is up to her old ways in this lovely foray into a community within the boundaries of Dublin. Occasional references to Quentins brings the story back to familiar places.

Frankie is a child who has been orphaned by its mother and left to be raised by its father. The whole community of characters becomes involved in the process. I found myself longing to meet them all, especially Emily.

If you are looking for a departure from blood, guts, mystery, suspense & horror, don't hesitate to pick up Minding Frankie.

Ladybookbug!

Tick Tock by James Patterson

2011-02-28T08:04:00.001-08:00

When have you read enough of James Patterson? Answer: Never!

In this latest entry from the master of storytelling, we are re-introduced to NYC detective, Michael Bennet. Patterson throws a love interest or two into this hair-raising tale.

I happen to love the character and really enjoyed his latest round of suspense.

For fans of JP and MB a MUST!

Ladybookbug!

How to Bake A Perfect Life by Barbara O'Neal

2011-01-24T06:33:00.000-08:00

Try something light for a change. Well, sorta light--at times it does read like a soap opera. This story is set among the lives of three people--Ramona, Sophia and Kate.

Ramona is the owner/operator of a bread-making establishment and interspersed among the chapters are some unusual recipes for bread. Ramona is a single mother to Sophia who is expecting her first child. Kate is the daughter of Sophia's husband by a prior marriage. Something unexpected happens and Kate comes to live with Ramona.

This is a story about the relationship between mothers,daughters,grandmothers, aunts, and stepchildren --all amidst the background of making bread. There are moments when it's time to grab a tissue but also moments that will make you smile.

A delight to read plus recipes to savor. What more could you ask for?

Ladybookbug!

A Dog's Purpose by W. Bruce Cameron

2011-01-18T12:07:00.000-08:00

If you LOVE dogs and I do, then this book is a MUST read! It is the story of a dog with four lives- so much for cats…..

He begins his life as a feral dog who is “adopted” and placed in a yard with many other dogs. His next life is as a companion to a boy. He then is trained as a search and rescue dog. His last life is the most memorable as he revisits the boy as a man and contributes to making the man’s life complete.

A well-written foray into the musings of life from a dog’s perspective, it certainly gave this reader pause to reflect what a dog’s life is really about.

Woof! Woof!

Ladybookbug!

Safe Haven by Nicholas Sparks

2011-01-10T08:26:00.000-08:00

One thing you can always say about Nicholas Sparks—he’s consistent. His stories are real. Some might say his writings are “sappy” but I find them a pleasant departure from murders and gruesome killing sprees.

Safe Haven is the story of an abused wife who finally gets the courage to leave her abuser. She moves to a southern town where she begins a new chapter in her life. She falls in love and things seem to be going well until something terrible happens. She finds herself second-guessing her decisions but is able to realize that love does indeed conquer all.

If you are into happy endings, then this one’s for you.

Ladybookbug!

Seven Year Switch by Claire Cook

2011-01-03T10:56:00.000-08:00

A delightful foray into the habits of a single mom and her daughter. This is a upbeat (for the most part) story about Jill, her struggles and her joys. Thrown in are a bit of intellectual musings about different cultures from which I learned a great deal.

A rainy day or a day at the beach are both fitting for reading this latest entry by Cook.
You won’t be bogged down with cloak and dagger or puzzlers. Rather your spirits will be lifted and you’ll walk away feeling better for having known Jill for a few hours.

Ladybookbug!

The Postcard Killers by James Patterson & Liza Marklund

2011-01-03T10:49:00.000-08:00

To me, reading James Patterson is an insatiable venture. Just when you think you’re filled to capacity, something new comes along and you must read it.

And so it is with Mr. Patterson, et.al’s latest entry into the “thriller” category. This is indeed in the thriller category. It’s a bit more graphic than some of his books so be prepared for it.

The story is fast-paced and hard to put down.

If you’re short on time and eager to add just one more Patterson to your bookshelf, then this one’s for you.

Ladybookbug!

Never Wave Goodbye by Doug Magee

2010-12-21T08:09:00.000-08:00

Imagine you are putting your child into a camp van and they are whisked off to sleep-away camp for two weeks. The only problem is that you find out later that the van that picked up your precious child was not the one from the camp.
And so begins this first novel by Doug Magee. A former photo-journalist, screenwriter, film producer and director, Mr. Magee has written nonfiction and children’s books but this is his first novel.

Four children are kidnapped. The local police and FBI are called in to solve the mystery.
All four families are interrogated. Police look for links in all the usual places. As the story unfolds the families start to suspect each other.

Something happens to the kidnapper and the children are forced to forage on their own, deep in the Adirondacks.

The premise of the story was interesting enough. The writing mediocre. It seemed to drag on in the middle of the book.

Okay but if you have something more pressing, it can be put aside.

Ladybookbug!

Little Green by Loretta Stinson

2010-12-02T15:44:00.000-08:00

To begin with let me say that as a rule, I love first-time authors. This title was no exception. The story is one many of us try to avoid and rightly so. It is about an abusive relationship.

The main character is Janie, a runaway, who has experienced a number of unsavory incidents in her efforts to survive. Ultimately she ends up with people who care and who exhibit great kindness. However in the interim she meets up with Paul whom she believes is the love of her life. She sees a glimmer of someone special underneath his drug induced exterior and clings to the hope that her love can change him.

This is a profound example of an abusive relationship, fraught with drugs, abandonment and lack of self-worth. It is not until the unthinkable happens that Janie realizes what she has submitted herself to and comes to her moment of truth.

Upon completing this book, I found myself grateful for my life and circumstances. Looking forward to more from this author.

Ladybookbug!

Pray for Silence by Linda Castillo

2010-11-27T12:55:00.000-08:00

This is Ms. Castillo’s second novel in her series about a female policy chief in Amish Country.

A heinous crime has been committed. Kate Burkholder, police chief is called in to investigate the crime. She notes there are some strange marks at the crime scene. These marks lead to a horrible fact.

Kate calls in her friend, State Agent John Tomasetti to help with the investigation. Together they plod through the clues, including a diary kept by one of the victims.

This was a thriller about a gruesome crime. In all honesty if they ever make this into a movie, I’ll be sitting there with my hand over my eyes.

Read it if you dare!

Ladybookbug!

Live to Tell by Lisa Gardner

2010-11-13T06:27:00.000-08:00

This thriller is about three women whose lives intersect in the midst of horrendous crimes. D.D. Warren, veteran police detective, Victoria Oliver, mother of a difficult child and Danielle Burton, children’s psychiatric nurse all have a stake in solving the mystery.

Two entire families are murdered and there appears to be no connection between the two. After careful scrutiny by Detective Warren, the reader is made privy to what ties the two incidents together. It then becomes a race against time before other people are drawn into the fray.

My only complaint about this latest entry by Gardner is that I would have liked more of a story line about D.D. Warren.

Ladybookbug!

Savor the Moment by Norah Roberts

2010-11-01T12:39:00.001-07:00

This is the third book in a quartet about four young women who own a wedding planning business in Connecticut called Vows.

Sometimes you just want to read something light. No violence. Nothing that keeps you on the edge of your seat. Just a gentle read. This series of books is just that.

Parker, Emma, Laurel and Mac are childhood friends who started the business together and run it out of a house. The stories take us through the rudiments of planning a wedding including flowers, photography and the cake. Roberts uses terms such as MOB and FOB to draw us all in and we may find ourselves wishing we too, could have a wedding planned by this foursome.

Looking for some beach reading---by all means read this series. By the way, the last book in the quartet, Happy Ever After, will be available in November.

Ladybookbug!

Stay by Allie Larkin

2010-10-14T14:53:00.000-07:00

A light, delightful story about a twenty-something girl who is despondent over the marriage of her best friend to the man she loved.

Savannah goes home after the wedding celebration and gets drunk on Kool-Aid and vodka. She then decides to address her feelings of abandonment and purchases a dog over the internet. She names the dog Joe and together they develop a mutual admiration society.

A new love comes into Savannah’s life and she must make a decision as to what direction her life should take.

Great reading for a lazy day at the beach!

Ladybookbug!

The Shadow of Your Smile by Mary Higgins Clark

2010-10-14T14:50:00.000-07:00

A gentle mystery—the kind that this author is noted for. She has never disappointed this reader. I’ve read everything she’s ever written, including her non-fiction memoir entitled Kitchen Privileges.

Her latest endeavor is all about a young pediatrician named Monica Farrell and her attempt to discover who her paternal grandparents were. An elderly lady has all the answers and wants to share them with Monica but unfortunately meets her demise before she can do so.

This is an interesting plot with many twists and turns and lots of unsavory characters.

If you are a die-hard Mary Higgins Clark fan, you must read this.

Ladybookbug!

The Ape House by Sara Gruen

2010-10-05T08:59:00.000-07:00

I believe one of the marks of a good author is their ability to draw the reader in from the first few chapters. And so……Ape House by Sara Gruen is just such a book. From the beginning she is able to have the reader commit to the plight of the bonobos. Although I never heard of this species before, I found myself interested in them right from the get-go.

This is the story of a group of intelligent apes who are being studied in a facility. A bomb goes off and the apes are displaced. They end up being exploited by an unsavory individual. Isabele has a penchant for bonobos. She has been working with them for years and considers them family. She must do everything she can to save them from the possibility of destruction. She joins forces with a newspaper reporter and together they work to free the bonobos.

I discovered I cannot just walk away from this book. I fully intend on reading the other non-fiction books the author recommends. Not quite the phenomenon of “Water for Elephants” but a good book none-the-less.

Ladybookbug!

Private by James Patterson and Maxine Paetro

2010-09-28T14:28:00.000-07:00

Okay—all you James Patterson fans—get ready, get set & read!

This latest entry by the master was fast-moving and fascinating. I particularly liked the mystery surrounding the use of cell phones, although all three mysteries were good.

I know there are several Patterson fans out there who are disappointed in the author because they feel he is just selling his “name” and that the quality of the books being produced has lessened. I do not agree. I like the format of his books. Short chapters help this reader move right along with the story. While the mysteries themselves may not always be intense, they still keep this reader captivated.

Maxine Paetro has written several stories in the Murder Inc. series and I have liked each and every one. The premise of this story is Private. It is a private investigative company. As such they take on a variety of “jobs” which prove to be interesting. One is illegal gambling within the ranks of a national sports league. Another is the murder of Jack’s best friend’s wife and the third is the murders of schoolgirls.

I, for one, am grateful that Mr. Patterson, along with other authors, keeps cranking them out.

Ladybookbug!

The Lion by Nelson DeMille

2010-09-07T13:26:00.000-07:00

Another item by Long Island author Nelson DeMille. This is a fast-paced, thriller by another one of my favorite authors. John Corey returns along with his wife Kate. They, along with several other characters have been targeted by a terrorist known as “The Lion”.
The story line is well-thought out but a bit gruesome. In fact, if they ever make movie out of this one, I’ll probably keep my hands over my eyes for much of it.

I found this latest entry to be a bit of a departure from The Gate House and pleasingly so.
I like to be surprised and this story is full of them.

Read it!

Ladybookbug!

Astrid & Veronika by Linda Olsson

2010-08-19T09:02:00.000-07:00

This is a first for author Linda Olsson and one should not miss it.

It is the story of Veronika, a young writer who rents a small house on the outskirts of Stockholm one very harsh winter and Astrid, a bit of an eccentric who lives next door and is known in the small town as a witch.

It is also the story of two bruised souls who reach out to each other and start a friendship that begins the healing process within each woman. As their stories are unraveled, the reader glimpses what is behind each woman’s sorrow and we find ourselves wanting to envelope them with our love and concern.

Their story is humorous, serious, entertaining and worth remembering.

A gentle read for a summer’s night.

Ladybookbug!

Storm Prey by John Sanford

2010-08-10T16:14:00.000-07:00

They’re back! Virgil, Weather and Lucas and they’re all involved in yet another crime.

This crime takes place in the hospital where Weather works and she is a witness to one of the robbers. Virgil is responsible for her well being while Lucas investigates.

The crime starts at the hospital with a robbery but it doesn’t end there. Sandford takes the reader through a maze of criminal events and adds a character or two here and there.
This reader found it very interesting to see how all the events were connected, recognizing that it would be very difficult to do if one were in the midst of the crimes.

This is crime writing at it’s’ best. You won’t want to miss the 20th entry in the Prey series.

Ladybookbug!

61 Hours by Lee Child

2010-08-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

This time Jack Reacher gets stranded on a bus somewhere in South Dakota. Members of the police force in a small nearby town come to the rescue. However, they must return to the town asap because of a situation.

Jack becomes entwined in the machinations of the small town and ends up protecting a witness in a drug-related case.

Reading Lee Child’s novels are much like watching an episode of 24. You almost need handrails to hang on. If you are into thrillers- you’ll not want to miss Child’s latest entry.
He keeps you on your toes right to the very end and leaves you wondering how you got there.

Ladybookbug!

Hannah's List by Debbie Macomber

2010-07-27T15:13:00.000-07:00

A gentle read by the supreme expert of gentle reads. This is the story of Michael, a widowed pediatrician whose wife died of ovarian cancer. She left a letter to her husband with her brother to be given to him one year after her death. In the letter she lists three women she feels would make great candidates to be his new wife.

Michael still struggles with the loss of his wife. He isn’t really thinking about embarking on a new relationship but Hannah’s letter encourages him to at least meet with each of the three women.

Although this story is a bit predictable, it is a refreshing change from the thrillers and mysteries which this reader is prone to.

Looking for something light and devoid of explicit sexual or murderous details—try this!

Ladybookbug!

Without Mercy by Lisa Jackson

2010-07-19T08:57:00.000-07:00

Blue Rock Academy, nestled in the mountains of Oregon, is a boarding school for wayward, financially endowed, youth.

Shaylee, sister of Jules, daughter of Edie, is sent there for rehabilitation. Unfortunately, all is not what is seems at the academy. Several murders take place and there seems to be an undercurrent of subterfuge prevailing.

Reverend Lynch is the leader of the Blue Rock Academy. He runs a tight ship and tries to keep all the students in line. However, there is an elusive side to him which bears scrutiny.

Jackson leads the reader along the mysterious path, keeping us guessing as to who the perpetrator is. When the mystery is finally uncovered, you may be surprised.

Ladybookbug!

Every Last One by Anna Quindlen

2010-07-15T12:22:00.000-07:00

Mary Beth Latham, mother of three teenagers, is someone who values family and friendship. Married to an ophthalmologist, Mary Beth runs her own landscaping business. Busy to the max, Mary Beth still has time to interact with all of her family members, including Ruby’s boyfriend Kiernan.

This is the story of incredible loss. It is also the story of incredible strength and perseverance in the midst of that loss. The author begins the book by drawing the reader into the family unit. We become a part of the closeness and recognize that this family cherishes their lives. While they are not exempt from the occasional spat, they are a family that is close-knit. Then, the unthinkable happens and Mary Beth is thrown into a whirlwind of emotions, not knowing how to deal with it all. She only knows that she must be strong for her son Alex.

Quindlen has again, made us understand how one learns to cope and move on after a great tragedy. The reader becomes one with Mary Beth and we empathize with her as she sands floors, bursts into tears and becomes undone. We never fail to encourage her to move forward, utilizing all the strength she has left. A story wrought with courage and determination.

Ladybookbug!

Shelter Me by Juliette Fay

2010-07-08T12:28:00.000-07:00

A brand-new author’s first novel and one not-to-be-missed. This is the story of Janie, a newly widowed young mother who must learn to move forward through her grief. During this period, two men enter her life. Father Jake who meets with Janie on Fridays to talk about her loss and Tug Malinowski who is building a porch on the front of her home.

The author seems to have a realistic grip on loss and abandonment feelings and this reader found herself connected to the main character from the get-go. I was so enveloped in Janie’s life, I did not want the story to end. From four-year old Dylan, to cousin Cormac, the reader becomes easily immersed in the story.

Looking for something to read on a rainy day—this one’s for you!

Ladybookbug!

Deliver us from Evil by David Baldacci

2010-06-29T13:03:00.000-07:00

Reggie Campion and her group of private vigilantes are in pursuit of a evil monger Evan Waller. They are not novices to exterminating evil doers and Reggie has had plenty of experience using her wiles to draw in the menaces and prepare them for the kill.

Unbeknownst to Reggie, a separate operative is also in pursuit of Waller. Mid way through the mission, they pull out but Shaw, one of their head honchos, decides to stay fearing for the safety of Reggie.

This is an intricate twisted tale of evil at its’ worst. Baldacci’s writing is very effective in making the reader acutely aware of just what evil is. Readers may find themselves not only rooting for the good guys but wishing they were one of them just to have the opportunity to exterminate Waller.

A fast-paced thriller!

Ladybookbug!

Money to Burn by James Grippando

2010-06-22T13:12:00.000-07:00

Michael Cantella is a whiz kid on Wall Street. He is in the prime of his life and very successful in the field of investment. He has it all, a successful career, a beautiful wife, and a sizable portfolio.

One day he opens his account to discover that all the funds have been transferred out and he and his company are flat broke. So begins an investigation into finding out who is doing this and why. Michael loses favor quickly with his superiors. He is virtually left on the street to fend for himself.

This novel takes the reader on a short course of Wall Street happenings. It is fraught with intrigue and suspense.

Another great read from a consummate thriller-writer.

Ladybookbug!

The Last Time I Saw You by Elizabeth Berg

2010-06-17T09:16:00.000-07:00

This is the story of a 40th High School Class Reunion. Pete Decker, football player extraordinaire and man-about-town is very excited about the prospect of luring his soon to be ex back into his arms again.

Candy Armstrong, the class beauty, has just been given a death notice but decides to attend the reunion after all. Dorothy has always dreamed of getting together with Pete and has high hopes for the reunion. Mary Alice decides to attend with the old gent she is caring for. Lester has some misgivings about the whole thing but his secretary persuades him that the reunion is just the ticket.

All of these personalities converge on the reunion with dreams and hopes of rekindling old relationships and starting new ones. This is a welcoming foray into what each one of us may expect from a class reunion.

Ms. Berg’s novels hit the emotional nail on the head and this one is exceptionally well done. Not to be missed.

Ladybookbug!

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo by Steig Larsson

2010-06-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

The girl’s name is Salander and she’s a wiz at the computer. She works for a security firm. A client requests her services to look into a journalist who has just been convicted of libel.

This story started off very slowly. In fact, this reader was just about to call it quits and pick up something more light when wham! The rubber met the road and the rest of the story went by in a flash.

A little more graphic than your average thriller, The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo requires all the reader’s wits to figure out who done it.

Ladybookbug!

Down to the Wire by David Rosenfelt

2010-05-24T07:29:00.000-07:00

Chris Turley, a reporter for the Bergen News is about to get the scoop of his life. Anonymous phone tips set the scene for this latest mystery from David Rosenfelt.
Chris becomes an overnight sensation, revealing story after story about corruption, buildings being blown apart and people dying.

Chris gets caught up in the notoriety and then the nightmare begins as the incidents escalate and more and more people are killed and the telephone calls take on a new twist as more and more people are at risk of being harmed.

This is a fast-paced thriller that is sure to keep you guessing until the very end. Just when you think you have it all figured out-- don’t be so sure -- you might be surprised.

Ladybookbug!

Caught by Harlan Coben

2010-05-18T13:59:00.000-07:00

There are several premises to this latest entry by Coben. One is that a well-liked teenage girl has gone missing. The other is that a well-loved social worker is caught in a sting entrapment designed to catch sexual predators. The two circumstances end up being connected in an unusual way.

I LOVE Coben’s stories and was all geared up to like this one as well. However, something is missing from this story. I’m not sure if it was the convoluted twists and turns of the story that set me back or the characters. It just did not have the same appeal that his other books have had. I did not find myself racing forward to get to the next happening in the story.

And in closing I would say-- if you want to read a mediocre mystery, then by all means add this one to your list.

Ladybookbug!

Untraceable by Laura Griffin

2010-05-10T06:46:00.000-07:00

A young PI named Alix Lovell takes on an abused woman named Melanie. She helps her get away to a safe place and so begins an interesting mystery.

Alix, along with her police friend Nathan embark on a crime laden with murder, abuse, arson, corruption, and kidnapping. Together they face the powers that be in an attempt to reveal who they really are.

This was a fast-paced mystery with all the trimmings.

Ladybookbug!

Americans in Space by Mary E. Mitchell

2010-05-03T07:59:00.000-07:00

A young widow with two children aged 14 and 2 is coping with the loss of her husband and the loss of a teenager in her counseling group. Kate appears to be handling her life on the surface but underneath it all she is unraveling.

In a desperate effort to escape the pressures of her life, Kate decides to take a sabbatical and plans to visit her parents in Texas. Things change and she heads in a different direction. Hunter and Charlotte, Kate’s children are coping with their own loss and both have to come to terms with it.

This was a run-of-the-mill story and reminded me of Laura Moriarity’s The Center of Everything.

Ladybookbug!

Not My Daughter by Barbara Delinsky

2010-04-29T11:50:00.000-07:00

This story is ripped right from the headlines. The author, however, brings the reader to the behind-the-scenes action from the start.

Four high-achieving high school girls get it into their minds to form a pact to get pregnant. They want to do this on their own with little or no interaction from the biological fathers in regard to bringing up the babies.

What starts out as a basic premise ends up recognizing that we seldom do anything exclusively. That is to say without impacting others in our immediate vicinity. Ms. Delinsky does look more closely at the interaction between mothers and daughters, particularly Lily and Susan (who happens to be the high school principal). My thoughts were she might have delved a bit deeper into the relationships of the other characters and the fathers of the babies.

This is an interesting foray into a contemporary topic and certainly one that bears re-examination. Good fodder for book discussions.

Ladybookbug!

Sizzle by Julia Garwood

2010-04-19T07:53:00.000-07:00

Lyra Prescott is a film student. As part of her final project she must film a documentary. While filming she is unaware that something sinister lies behind the movie. She and her roommate Sidney are both put in a precarious situation when a pair of thugs breaks into their apartment.

Enter FBI agent Sam Kincaid who stirs more than the pot when he becomes Lyra’s bodyguard.

This is the kind of romance-thriller that may remind you of Fern Michaels or Danielle Steele. If you are looking for something to fill a couple of nights-you may want to consider reading this book.

Otherwise, move on to something more challenging.

Ladybookbug!

A Face at the Window: a home repair is homocide mystery by Sarah Graves

2010-04-19T07:50:00.000-07:00

If you have never read one of the titles in this series, now is a good time to start. This latest entry pits Jake against a character from her past.

Her niece is kidnapped along with the babysitter. There are two thugs nosing around Eastport, Maine looking for Jake. Jake finds her at the bottom of a gravel pit with nowhere to turn. And in the midst of all this excitement, she is busy repairing the cement walk that leads to her house.

I guess I would consider these mysteries to be light although there is plenty of action in this story and it moves right along to the conclusion. This is definitely not a thriller and that’s okay, it doesn’t have to be. It is good mystery writing and has some invaluable home repair tips thrown in for good measure.

Ladybookbug!

Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah

2010-04-10T13:11:00.000-07:00

Meredith and Nina Whitson are sisters in this new novel by Kristin Hannah. Meredith runs the family business and Nina is a world famous photographer. They are both busy with their respective duties when their father becomes gravely ill. Meredith tries to keep everything going while caring for her father and mother. Nina comes back from the ends of the earth to help.

This is a story of family struggles, differences of opinion, a tale that needs to be told, and planning ahead for geriatric care for their mother.
I loved this book. I’ve read all of the author’s work and this is one of her best. The story meanders a bit in beginning but stay with it—you will not be disappointed.

Winter Garden is a story within a story with a surprising ending.

Ladybookbug!

House rules by Jodi Picoult

2010-04-10T13:08:00.001-07:00

Well, she’s done it again! Taken a controversial topic and built a story around it.
In this case it’s Aspergers Syndrome. Jacob Hunt is an 18-year old boy who has the condition. He lives with his mother, Emma, and his brother Theo.

He is working with a tutor when a terrible tragedy occurs. This results in a trial and the reader is familiarized with all of the participants in the case. Interspersed among the characters are brief synopses of other cases that have occurred throughout history.

This author REALLY researches her topics thoroughly. This book is no exception. Her attention to detail is remarkable. Even if there were no story to follow, this book is chock full of information about a topic that leaves many of us in the dark.

Even if you’ve read all of this author’s books, you’ll not want to miss this one.

Ladybookbug!

Good to a Fault by Marina Endicott

2010-03-29T07:58:00.000-07:00

I picked this book up because the title intrigued me. Essentially, it’s the story of a good person.

Clara Purdy, divorcee, has spent most of her adult life caring for her now- deceased parents. She lives in a small house by herself and works in an office. She is on the way to the bank on her lunch hour and is in an automobile accident. She walks away unscathed but the family in the other car has a myriad of troubles, some caused by the accident and some having nothing to do with it.

The Gages are homeless and have been living in the Dart that was involved in the accident. The father is out of work. The mother is harboring cancer in her body and is unaware of it. They have three children and a grandmother who live with them in the car.

Clara Purdy has a big heart and decides that she will take the family into her home and care for them. She quits her job and jumps into being a full-fledged nanny. Through many bumps in the road, Clara moves forward, relinquishing her own lifestyle for that of the Gage family.

This was a lukewarm story. I wouldn’t say don’t read it but--- don’t get your hopes up!

Ladybookbug!

The School of Essential Ingredients by Erica Bauermeister

2010-03-29T07:55:00.000-07:00

This book was suggested by a library patron. She said the descriptions of food were mouth-watering. She was right. I hasten to add that the descriptions of people were done equally well.

This is the story of Lillian. She owns a small restaurant, teaches a cooking class, and studies people both emotionally and how they relate to the food they are cooking.

Each chapter of the book introduces the reader to another person in Lillian’s cooking class. This style of writing is much like Maeve Binchy’s Evening Class and I enjoyed it just as much. In both cases, this reader thinks the books would make GREAT movies.

The writing in the book was a delight to read. I felt as if I knew each person. This is the author’s first novel but I’m certain it’s not her last.

Ladybookbug!

Noah's Compass by Anne Tyler

2010-03-22T06:56:00.000-07:00

So everyone’s talking about babyboomers. This is definitely a book for them.

Liam has reached the age of 60 and the private school he works for has effectively “fired” him (although he likes to say they downsized). He decides to make his life more simple by moving out of his larger apartment and getting rid of his excess stuff.

He moves into a smaller habitat and an incident occurs on his first night there. During the course of his recuperation, he tries to recall his memories about what occurred. In doing so, he begins to realize other memories that he has forgotten over the years.

This is a story about reinventing yourself. It is also a story about self-discovery.
Was this a great story? No. But it was interesting.

Ladybookbug!

Think Twice by Lisa Scottoline

2010-03-22T06:50:00.000-07:00

Think good twin -- think evil twin -- think fast-paced mystery. You've got it a great new entry from mystery writer Lisa Scottoline.

Bennie is a lawyer with her own top-notch firm. Alice is a scam artist who dabbles in the re-sale of illegal prescription drugs. Bennie & Alice are identical twins. Both are successful in their own particiular endeavors. That's where their likeness ends.

Alice, despondent about her lack of money and prospects, decides that the grass is greener on the other side of the fence and is determined to do something about it.
She maneuvers herself into Bennie's life and manages to trick everyone into believing she is Bennie. Meanwhile, Bennie is literally struggling for her life and is being thwarted at every step.

This author did such a fine job of portraying the evil twin that this reader disliked her from the start and kept hoping that Alice would trip herself up.

A good read from a seasoned writer.

Ladybookbug!

U is for Undertow by Sue Grafton

2010-03-15T06:50:00.000-07:00

I’ve been reading Sue Grafton’s series since the beginning in 1982 with A is for Alibi and have never been disappointed. Kinsey Millhone is as enchanting today as she was more than twenty years ago.

This latest entry is filled with plots and subplots, keeping the reader on their toes and motivating the reader to read on. There is an object being buried on a hillside with a six year-old boy witnessing the event. There is contact from Kinsey’s long lost relatives and decisions regarding re-connecting. There is an old kidnapping case resurrected. All work together to form a satisfying mystery and conclusion.

I like to think of Kinsey Millhone as the precursor to Stephanie Plum. Plum having a bit more fun. Both writers have gone a long way to make this mystery reader a satisfied customer.

Ladybookbug!

Never Look Away by Linwood Barclay

2010-03-15T06:35:00.000-07:00

The starting point of this new thriller by Linwood Barclay is an amusement park. Hence, the picture of a ferris wheel on the cover.

Jan and David Harwood are your average young couple living in Promise Falls, New York. They have a four-year old son named Ethan. David's parents live nearby and help with babysitting for their grandson.

Jan hasn't been feeling too well lately and is complaining to David about having suicidal thoughts. David is battling with the anticipated demise of the newspaper for which he works as a reporter. They plan an outing with their son at Five Mountains Amusement Park and that is where the trouble begins.

This was a great story. Just when you think you know what's happening--bang--the author throws a twist in the storyline and you find yourself back on the hunt again, trying to figure out who done what and when.

Mr. Barclay is one of my favorite authors and he has not disappointed me with this new entry.

Ladybookbug!

The Body in the Sleigh by Katherine Hall Page

2010-03-03T07:15:00.000-08:00

Every once in a while I like to take on a “light” mystery. This series about Faith Fairchild, married to a minister, chic caterer, mother of two small children is just that.
All of her titles contain the word body. I still remember her first The Body in the Belfry and thoroughly enjoyed this most recent. Although several references are made to previous books in the series, you can really read this as a stand alone though I suspect you might want to go back and read them all.

Faith discovers a body in a sleigh which sets off the mystery. Concurrent with this discovery is the baby left in the barn at a nearby goat farm. Is there a connection? Read the book and find out.

A delightful read.

Ladybookbug!

Next Stop, Reloville by Peter T. Kilborn

2010-03-03T07:09:00.000-08:00

This book is all about “reloes” a part of the subculture of America. Reloes are upwardly mobile professionals who relocate to different parts of the country, as well as Europe in an effort to move ahead in their careers.

Relovilles are located throughout the south and southeast and are recognizable by the amount of houses that transfer hands over the course of several years, suvs in the driveways, subdivisions often times devoid of sidewalks, mothers ensconced in the turmoil of shuttling their children here and there and dads commuting sometimes as much as 150 miles to work.

I picked this book up because I had never heard of the term, nor the people involved. It was a very informative book, well-written and chock full of examples of people who have lived this way of life for many years and some who gave it up in search of a “real” life.

Ladybookbug!

Once in a Blue Moon by Eileen Goudge

2010-02-23T16:32:00.000-08:00

Okay, I’ll be frank, the title of this novel is what caught my eye. If you like Susan Wiggs and Barbara Delinsky, you’ll like this story of two sisters who don’t always see eye-to-eye but who believe family is family.

Lindsay and Karrie Ann are separated by the foster care system at an early age when their mother is imprisoned and lose contact with each other. As an adult, Lindsay is constantly trying to locate her sister when Karrie Ann finds herself in need of her sister and contacts Lindsay instead.

What follows is an up and down ramble through their lives while they sort things out with the help of Honi, an old friend. This is a light romantic novel.

Ladybookbug!

Rainwater by Sandra Brown

2010-02-23T16:29:00.000-08:00

Before reading this latest entry by Ms. Brown, I was aware of the fact that this story is a total departure from her usual fare. With that in mind, I embarked in a new direction. I was not disappointed.

If one were to compare this entry with her usual mystery/thrillers, you might find yourself less than impressed but stick with it. It is a somewhat gentle story that takes place in the 1930’s in the west. Rainwater is the name of a well-to-do gentlemen who happens upon a small town . He takes up residence in a small boarding house and his influence affects the rest of the story.

I did like this book. The ending is a bit of a surprise but not unduly so. It is a quick read, being a small sized book of approximately 245 pages. If you’re up for a change, take a look.

Ladybookbug!

9 Dragons by Michael Connelly

2010-02-13T08:50:00.000-08:00

When a consummate mystery writer comes out with a new entry—what can you say? In this latest entry, Mr. Connelly becomes entangled with the murder of a store-owner. The murdered man appears to have an unusual set of tattoos on the bottom of his feet. Henry Bosch, detective, is assigned to the case. In an effort to discern what the tattoos mean, he forwards a copy to his daughter, living with his ex-wife in Hong Kong. And, so begins a mystery.

This was a good story and one which had this reader hooked about a few chapters in, reading voraciously until the end.

I think Connelly ranks right up there with Patterson and Baldacci.

Ladybookbug!

Secrets of Eden by Chris Bohjalian

2010-02-13T08:47:00.000-08:00

The setting is a small town just outside of Burlington, Vermont. A murder-suicide has been committed.

The author presents the crime and then gives a closer examination of several characters presented in the novel. Stephen Drew, Baptist minister who is guilt ridden over his failure to save his parishioner, Catherine Benicat, Deputy State Attorney who forces the reader to take a closer look at the crime and Heather Lauren, author of several books about angels and from whom excerpts from her writings are interspersed throughout the novel.

I happen to love everything this author has written. I’ve never been disappointed by any of his stories. This is one of his best. It was well-written and keeps you guessing until the very end.

Ladybookbug!

True Blue by David Baldacci

2010-02-08T08:01:00.000-08:00

Enter Mason Perry aka Mace Perry, former undercover policewoman who is now a former prison inmate. Her sister Beth is the chief of police of Washington D.C. Together they hope to find the people responsible for Mace’s incarceration.

A legal eagle has been found murdered and stuffed in the staff refrigerator, only to be discovered by a partner in the firm early one morning. Roy Kingman, the person who discovers the body ends up befriending Mace and together they work to uncover the perpetrators of the crime. This leads to the discovery of a network of people working under the radar.

This is a fast-paced mystery with short chapters, which helps the reader get through the book more quickly as well. I really liked the main character in this story and it is my hope that Mr. Baldacci brings her back in one of his future stories.

Ladybookbug!

Evil at Heart by Chelsea Cain

2010-02-08T07:58:00.000-08:00

I read this book as a stand-alone but I do think it would have been better to read the previous books entitled Sweetheart and Lovesick. Reading them would have set the stage for this thriller.

This story is a thriller in the truest sense of the word. Portland detective Archie Sheridan has been pursuing serial killer Gretchen Lowell for over a decade and has suffered drastic consequences.

This is a VERY graphic story. If you are the tiniest bit squeamish about descriptive details, I warn you not to read this book. However, if you enjoy a good thriller, then this one’s for you.

Ladybookbug!

A Change in Altitude by Anita Shreve

2010-02-01T09:07:00.000-08:00

Margaret and Patrick embark on an adventure to Kenya. Patrick, a doctor and Margaret, a photojournalist are not prepared for the dangers that befall them in Africa. A series of robberies results in their relocation to a cottage on the grounds of a large estate. They develop a friendship with Diana and Arthur who persuade them to join them in a climb of Mount Kenya.

Unfortunately, a terrible accident occurs during the climb which affects the climbers dramatically and they decide to climb back down the mountain. Margaret is profoundly affected by the tragedy and attempts to get beyond it by relocating their home to an apartment in the city.

In an attempt to assuage her guilt Margaret and Patrick decide to climb the mountain again and engage another couple to join them. It is during this second attempt that Margaret comes to grips with her feelings.

I’ve read all of Ms. Shreve’s novels. My favorite thus far was The Pilot’s Wife. I thought the movie version was very reflective of the book and I enjoyed it as well.

This book had a unique premise but I would not say I loved it.

Ladybookbug!

I can See You by Karen Rose

2010-02-01T09:05:00.000-08:00

Wow! Being an aficionado of Harlan Coben and Lisa Gardner, I am often hard-pressed to read a work by someone of the same caliber but I’ve discovered someone new in Karen Rose. Ms. Rose’s early works were romance novels but her more recent efforts are thrillers as one can easily discern by the titles alone such as Scream for Me and Kill for Me.

In her latest entry, Ms. Rose kept this reader glued to the edge of her seat. A very interesting series of crimes have been exposed and I was never quite certain who the perpetrator was. Actually, there we two persons who were on separate paths of destruction. One was thwarting the efforts of two of Minneapolis’ finest detectives and members of the “hat” squad. The other was murdering female computer gamers.

This thriller was very contemporary, bringing in all sorts of computer age technology to build the story and I appreciated it. I also believe lessons could be learned from this story. It captures the plight of lonely, isolated women, whose great escape lies within the realm of computer gaming.

Thank you Karen Rose for a really great read!

Ladybookbug!

Evidence of Murder by Lisa Black

2010-01-26T08:11:00.000-08:00

Theresa MacLean, forensic investigator is back again in this new series by Lisa Black.

Theresa suffered a great loss eight months prior to this latest murder. Unfortunately she has not worked her way through it and her superiors believe that fact is affecting her work adversely.

Jillian Perry, wife, mother and escort has been found frozen in the woods, not far from her home. Initially, there are no indications of foul play and several of Theresa’s contemporaries are content to think she committed suicide.

However, tenacious Theresa has a hunch that something does not ring true. Going against orders from her superiors to close the case, she follows through investigating Jillian’s obsessive friend, husband and family to find the cause of Jillian’s death.

Putting herself at risk, Theresa gets caught up in the investigation pursuing it to its’ conclusion.

This is a good murder mystery that will have you guessing how the crime was perpetrated and who the perpetrator was until the very end.

Ladybookug!

The Best of Times by Penny Vincenzi

2010-01-26T08:09:00.000-08:00

This author’s style of writing reminded me so much of Maeve Binchy.

This is the story of several different people. We are introduced to each in the beginning chapters. Each has their own story to tell. Suddenly there is a terrible motor vehicle accident on an ordinary afternoon, just outside London. Three people are killed and people’s lives are changed forever.

The author continues presenting each character and how their lives were affected by the accident. This is an intricate foray into how people can change as a result of a horrific accident.

Well written and enjoyable to read.

Ladybookbug!

While I'm Falling by Laura Moriarty

2010-01-14T09:44:00.000-08:00

I read the author’s two previous novels, The Center of Everything and
The Rest of Her Life. My favorite was The Rest of Her Life. Actually, I've written about it in this blog.
This latest entry was simply okay. I did not find it to be particularly exciting. In fact, it was a bit depressing.

It is the story of a mother and a daughter and how they try to support each other while their lives suffer drastic changes. Veronica’s parents’ divorce over infidelity. It would seem that the marriage was on its way to deteriorating long before the actual divorce. They both go their separate ways with the wife being less economically advantaged than the husband.

Through a series of complicated turns, the two end up with rumpled lives. At the end, they seem to find the right path and move forward.

Read it if you must.

Ladybookbug!

Remedies by Kate Ledger

2010-01-14T09:40:00.000-08:00

This is the story of Simon and Emily Bear. Simon is a general practitioner and has his own practice in his home. Emily is a partner in a public relations firm. They have one daughter. Their life seems completely idyllic on the surface.

However, as the story unfolds, the reader is made privy to what lies beneath the surface—anger, jealousy, disappointment and sorrow. We are witness to the unraveling of Simon’s practice and his demeanor. In addition, we have a first-hand look at the healing of Emily and the entire family.

This is a well-written story which invites the reader to take a closer look at how we all deal with pain.

Ladybookbug!

Bird in Hand by Christina Baker Kline

2010-01-04T12:14:00.000-08:00

I suppose there are only so many scenarios one could write about and then it’s about the setting, the characters and the dialogue. Such is the case with this story.

The book begins with an automobile accident on a dark, rainy night. One of the main female characters (Alison) is driving and her blood alcohol level proves to be just above the legal limit. Someone is killed and guilt raises its’ ugly head, pervading the sanctity of the rest of her life

We also have a threesome consisting of Ben, Alison’s best friend Claire, and Alison’s husband Charlie. The three connected in college, have travelled together and remain connected even though they have gone on to marry, move away from each other and get on with their lives.

Alison and Charlie seem to live a somewhat idyllic life, have two small children (a boy and a girl of course) and live in the suburbs. Alison is a stay-at-home mother although she does do some freelance editing. Charlie works in the city and commutes each day.

The scope of the tragedy masks the already deteriorating marriage of Charlie and Alison and the reader may assume that one leads to the other and perhaps it does. In all, this is not just the unraveling of a marriage but also friendship among the various characters. It is a testimony of how two people “in love” can cast all sense, security and loyalty to the wind- in pursuit of what they feel they are entitled to.

This was a well-written, albeit familiar story.

Ladybookbug!

The Last Resort-A Wanderlust Mystery by April Star

2009-12-30T10:57:00.000-08:00

Another new author to this reader. This was an okay mystery. The setting is an RV park. The story opens with David and Laura discovering a bottle in the water. Inside the bottle is what looks to be sand but as the story unravels, we discover that it is something else.

This was definitely NOT a Harlan Coben, nor a Lisa Gardner nor a Lee Child mystery. Those are fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat thrillers which I enjoy immensely. This was more in the line of Diane Mott Davidson, Dorothy Cannell, or Jill Churchill. What I like to call “light” mysteries.

The story was alright. Nothing too devious or too out of the ordinary. Quite predictable even down to the poisoning and what was used. This book had entirely too much verbiage for this reader. Just so you know this is the second book in the “Wanderlust Mystery” series. I, for one, do not think I’ll read another one.

Ladybookbug!

The Drowning River by Kim Byrne

2009-12-30T10:53:00.000-08:00

Another first time author—there have been many this year—and some have been good and some not-so-good.

The Drowning River takes place on the campus of a small New England college. Elsie Moloney has arrived at the college to take up graduate coursework. Upon her arrival, a fellow classmate spots her and exclaims, “I thought you were dead”.

The mystery surrounds the birth of twin baby girls two decades prior to the beginning of this story. One of the twins was kept by the birth mother and the other twin was adopted by another family. Neither of the twins ever knew she was a twin. One of the twins suffers a mysterious death at a bridge, while the other moves to the same campus to continue her graduate studies.

The reader is led on a path of deception which results in the uncovering of many secrets held by classmates in regard to the death of Hannah. It was quite a surprise to discover at the end of the book who the perpetrator was.

A good, fast-paced mystery.

Ladybookbug!