The Longest Ride by Nicholas Sparks

Another predictable romance by this prolific writer.

Ira is 92 years of age and has just ridden down an embankment in a snow storm.  He has black out periods that are interspersed with visits from his wife who died several years ago.  He uses the time to reflect upon his life.

Lucas is a bull-rider who meets the love of his life at a bull-riding event.  Together they embark on a romantic journey that has it's high points and low points.  Lucas is determined to continue to ride the bulls even though his life is at risk.  His girlfriend Sophia is working toward a degree in art and has plans to work at a prestigious museum.  Lucas, while admitting to being in love with Sophia, is reluctant to tell her of his previous injuries.

The story culminates with an art auction.

Nicholas Sparks fans who read everything he has written will want to read this one too.  The author indicates that the movie rights have already been picked up on the book.  So those of you who like to compare movies to books might also want to read this.


Lady Bookbug!

A Tap on the Window by Linwood Barclay

This is the story of a young dad whose son committed suicide right before the story begins.  He is bent on trying to find out what happened.  He is a bit of a pest as he tries to elicit information from some of his son's friends. Working as a private investigator has its perks and Cal uses everything he can muster to find out the truth.

One rainy night, while driving home, he picks up a teenage girl who says she knew his son.  The girl needs a ride and Cal agrees, hoping to get more information about his son.   The ride is short and things get complicated..  Things just don't seem perfect in the small sleepy town and Cal finds himself drawn into another mystery.

Linwood Barclay's books as a rule rank right up there with James Grippando and Lisa Gardner.  This story was a bit lukewarm but I did read it till the end.

Ladybookbug!

The Whole Enchilada by Diane Mott Davidson

This is the 17th novel in this series which features Goldy Schulz, caterer extraordinaire.  This time around Goldy's best friend drops dead following a birthday celebration.  Goldy is hot on the trail to determine why and who is responsible.

A surprise birthday party, the stabbing of some locals, and a near disaster all work together to create havoc in Goldy's life.  She is not dismayed and marches on to try to find out exactly who is behind it all.

I've read all the books in this series and I have enjoyed them.  I particularly like the recipes that follow each story and have actually tried some of them.  However, I would be remiss were I not to say that this entry was difficult to get through.  The story seemed too busy, almost too much happening.

Never the less, if you're a fan of Diane Mott Davidson, you'll want to read this too.

Ladybookbug!