The Book that Matters Most by Ann Hood

This author has written several books of note. While I have not read all of her work, I am familiar with her novel entitled The Knitting Circle. I enjoy her style of writing and her storylines.

In this latest entry the main character is a middle-aged woman named Ava. Her marriage has recently fallen apart and her two grown children are pursuing life separately from her intervention. She has
decided to join a book group where the members have made a decision to have each participant choose a book for each of the months of a year that has affected them profoundly and the rest of the group
will read and discuss it. If nothing else, this title should encourage all avid readers to consider which book matters most to them.

The story goes on to examine each of the integral people in the nuclear circle of Ava's life. We explore the life of Maggie who is residing in Paris and is dealing with a myriad of issues, some of which are self-inflicted. The reader is also briefly introduced to Charlotte and Hank with a smaller mention of Lily.

One of the main problems I have with the structure of this novel is the flipping back and forth as each character's life happenings are introduced. I prefer reading a novel from a singular perspective.
However, don't let my preferences stop you from reading this interesting title.

Ladybookbug!

Home by Harlan Coben

Harlan Coben is one of the consumate writers of thriller fiction it has been my experience to read. While many of his novels are stand-alone, he is also noted for his series featuring Myron Bolitar and his friend Win.

In this novel the premise is that two young boys were kidnapped from their homes over ten years ago. As the story opens Myron and his friend believe they have spotted the boys in London. What follows is an intricate plot about what exactly happened to the two young men.

In true Harlan Coben fashion, this novel takes an interesting twist at the end.

Good reading!

Ladybookbug!

Smooth Operator by Stuart Woods and Parnell Hall

To say that this author is prolific would be an understatement. Mr. Woods has numerous series to his credit, including those featuring Holly Barker, Will Lee, Ed Eagle and Stone Barrington. The most recent novel features a character known as Teddy Fay.

A good plot design goes a long way toward drawing readers into a story. Although the setting for Mr. Wood's latest entry is Washington, D.C., there is so much more going on behind the scenes and other locations come into play. Teddy Fay becomes embroiled in trying to figure out exactly why someone wants a particular bill to get passed. While readers may quickly jump to a conclusion--read on and explore other scenarios.

A good read from a consumate author of political thrillers.

Ladybookbug!

Once Upon A Wine by Beth Kendrick

The setting of this light-hearted novel is Lewes, Delaware. Ginger, aunt to Cammie and Kat, has just purchased a vineyard. The three decide to engage in a hopefully prosperous endeavor. Although none of the three know the first thing about making wine, they are willing to try. The reader suspects that anything the three have learned about winemaking is riddled with romantic excapades through the vines. There is also a scene where one of the characters remembers a "I Love Lucy" episode about winemaking.

Although the three struggle physically and financially, they are able to garner the gist of making wine and appear to enjoy it. There are some romantic interludes in this novel. All in all it is not melodramatic but rather a short simple story about love in the wine country of Delaware.

This author has a number of books to her credit. One title you might recall is The Lucky Dog Matchmaking Service.

Ladybookbug!