100+ Books in 2025 discussion
2024 Lists
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Nan's 2024 Reads
A Military Match by Patricia DavidsA faith-based contemporary romance that features a veterinarian's assistant and student, Jennifer Grant, and Avery Barnes, a man in the cavalry unit.
There's history between the pair, and Jennifer felt Avery broke her heart because he doesn't have the faith she does. She believes they have to be on the same page, spiritual-wise.
Now, they are working together with each of them teaching the other one special equestrian skills. Will they be able to find common ground? Can they work together without becoming involved?
If Avery admits his feelings, will Jennifer reciprocate? Especially if he doesn't find God in his life? Will his grandfather interfere once again in his love life or even in his life?
3. Dreamers of the Day by Mary Doria RussellAs relevant today as when it was written, this historical novel of the Middle East in the 1920s shows how this area was subdivided (recreated) by such historical figures as T.E. Lawrence, Gertrude Bell, and Winston Churchill.
The story is through the memories told by Agnes Shanklin, a woman who lived in Cleveland, Ohio. Her travels to Egypt after her family (sister Lillian and her mother among others) die during the 1918 Spanish flu pandemic. Shaking off the voice of her Mumma, listening to the voice of the saleswoman, Mildred, in Halle's Department Store, and finally, listening to herself, Agnes and her dog Rosie experience the trip of a lifetime. A trip full of repercussions for the lands she visits, and even repercussions for herself.
This reader thought she knew some of this history of this region from 1947-48, but after reading this novel and checking further, many of the seeds of the problems seen today were sown back in 1921 at the Cairo Conference. Definitely worth the read.
4. Quick and Dirty by Whitley CoxA contemporary romance that finds a travel writer traveling to an elite resort (this reader knows it is an elite resort for the 1% because the word elite is used multiple times (10-12 times) throughout the story) to check out said resort and its reclusive owner.
Parker, the female protagonist, has just been publicly dumped by her lover of three years on New Year's Eve at his party. Parker is both hurt and angry at Xavier's callous actions, and by the time she arrives at this exclusive resort, she's willing to f**k the first guy who smiles at her (and she does).
Thus begins the ten-day romance of Parker and Tate McAllister, the "manager" who happens to own the place. It's not until she officially meets Tate, the male protagonist, that she realizes what she has done. Can she stay neutral as she discovers all the realities of Tate? Is it possible to fall in love in ten days? How did she turn into such a snob? What will happen when Xavier suddenly shows up wanting to get back together?
A fair amount of WTT (green eyed characters, tucking incident, billionaires and millionaires, winks, smirks, among others), and a few misused words (me for met, for example), but overall, an enjoyable read especially considering the price).
5. Let it Crow! Let it Crow! Let it Crow! by Donna Andrewsin a reality show. He has been attacked and isn't able to participate in a show showcasing the talents of being a blacksmith, specifically making swords and blades.
Who attacked him and why is just the beginning of this mystery. Then after one of the other blacksmiths is killed, the mystery increases. Was the contestant murdered because in a certain light he looked like Faulk? Has he caused too much trouble by trying to blackmail the other contestants?
It's Christmas time, but there are problems ahead for the cast and crew of this reality show. It won't go on if Meg can't solve the murder.
Like other novels in this series, there is humor; there is Meg's wacky family; and there is a threat to Meg's life. Will she solve the murder in time, or will she become a victim, too? Thankfully, there are crows who recognize good guys from bad.
6. Bound (True Desires) by Sasha WhiteThis contemporary erotic romance features Katie, who wants to leave her hometown of Chadwick, and Joe Carson (definitely not of Petticoat Junction fame), who has recently moved to Chadwick.
Both work at the same place, a casino in Chadwick, and that's where the story starts. Told in the first person, Katie has been lusting after Joe for some time, and she decides to let out her 'inner bad girl' and entice him as he spends his days there in the surveillance room. She knows he is alone there, and voila! He takes the bait.
Their relationship develops quickly as he takes control. He is a dominant, and Katie soon realizes she likes submitting to his every desire. Not only likes submitting, but going out of her way to pleasing him in all ways.
On Joe's part, he wants this relationship even more than Katie, but what will happen when she moves away? Can this relationship work then? Or will she find another man in her new place of residence? Could this be love or just lust?
One niggling thing is the fact that Katie is very self-centered. Her best friend Jules even points it out at one point. As an example: she wins a huge pot of money at poker, cleaning out all the other card players at this high-stakes game; later, the same weekend, a little setback occurs and all she can say how bad her week has gone because of this tiny issue. Like boohoo, poor little me!
Spicy (read: graphic), erotic situations throughout the novel as well as many of the usual What-the-tuck trends (smirks and winks among them) are there. Biggest issue for this reader were the incredible number of typos (misused words, missing letters, or extra words). Editing or proof-reading (another set of eyes) would have caught most of them.
From my notes while reading:
Lots of misused words like him for he, that for than, etc.
Obviously, since it was not underlined in red with spellcheck, it was okay except it isn't."
Boy, the typos (mis-used words, extra words, missing words, and misspelled words) are getting more frequent!
7. Quotidian by Mary WilkinsonA literary novel about a woman who is not content with her life and is slowly feeling the walls closing in on her (or are the rooms?). It reminded this reader of the short story, The Yellow Wallpaper, but it's much deeper and more lyrical in style.
The protagonist is unnamed, but she talks of events in her life along with her invisible friend, Miss C. as her life spirals out of control.
Written from the protagonist's point of view, the language is poetic, lyrical, and deep. Short, pithy pieces (chapters) take some thought, the book's small pieces are not to be rushed by flipping pages. Many of her ruminations about events and emotions echo those of many a woman trapped in a marriage slowly eroding.
A couple quotes of note:
"When did all the tomorrows become yesterdays?" page 134
"...I said, Dear, don't call me Dear, you called me Dear, and I really hate being called Dear..." page 99
8. Knock Out by Sarah MacLeanThis is the third novel in the Hell's Belles historical romance series (will there be another?). Having not read the previous two books in the series, there were moments when it was obvious that this was a sequel and it would have been easier had the the previous ones been read. Having said that, the story line could easily be followed and enjoyed.
Lady Imogen is an atypical woman. She loves to make and deal with explosives, and she doesn't want to be married. She is a member of the Hell's Belles, women who fight for justice for women and the less fortunate in the East End of London.
Into this group enters a detective from Scotland Yard, Thomas Peck. He's trying to shut down these vigilantes as they appear to be the bad guys, always in the places that are being destroyed. What is going on? That's what Tommy is trying to figure out while also becoming involved with Imogen.
Love the characters especially the female protagonist, who is intelligent and skilled in chemistry. No shrinking violet this one. Tommy Peck is from a lower class, but he's out to save Imogen from harm.
Definitely, a fun romance that exposes corruption in the titled class. This reader plans of reading the previous two to discover the other people in the Hell's Belles group.
An extended review to be posted at pedometergeek.wordpress.com, my personal review site by 2/5/24
9. My Best Friend's Mardi Gras Wedding by Erin NicholasMardi Gras, the grand gesture, the wedding, and love...and all the other elements of this contemporary romance set in New Orleans.
Victoria (Tori) is best friends with Andrew, who is getting married to Paisley in New Orleans during the time of Mardi Gras. Tori visited the year before and met Josh Landry, a bartender who meets his match in Tori. There just seems to be something between them, but neither acts upon it besides a few kisses. If in a year, she returns, then they agree to meet at the bar where they met.
It's Mardi Gras, a year later, will they meet up? Or has the chemistry burnt itself out for either or both? For Josh, he's become celibate, hoping for her return. For Tori, she's there for the wedding of her best friend, but also looking forward to seeing Josh again if he shows.
When she accidentally kisses Andrew, thinking it is Josh, it sets off a series of issues for Tori, Josh, the bride, and the groom. What is going on, and will there be a happily ever after for anyone? Whose grand gesture will be the one that proves true love?
Some spicy scenes, some humorous scenes, quite a few What-the-tuck trends (winks, smirks, and actual tucking behind the ear incidents for which the WTT trends were named by this reader), and a few typos (missing or misused words...for example, a instead of and), but overall a fun romance with some unique perspectives.
10. Demon Copperhead by Barbara Kingsolver've never read David Copperfield, but I can imagine that it is as dark and difficult read as this novel was to read. Yet, this novel, set in modern times, had its moments of grace, too.
Addiction, redemption, love, grief, foster homes, and death...this has it all. Told from the perspective of Demon (Damon), it begins like the Dickens original, with Demon's birth from a single (teen-aged) mother who has her own demons of addiction. The Oxycontin and opioid drugs play a big part in this story. Will Demon escape from his roots, or will he have an early death like many of the people from his area of the country? Will his art save him, or will his football injury damn him?
Ewing, Virginia, the White Rocks, and the Sand Cave are all mentioned as well as other familiar places are mentioned.
Did I love it? No, but so glad I read it. It was depressing at times.
11. What the Lady Wants by Jennifer CrusieWho killed Armaud Lewis? That's what Mae wants Mitch Peatwick, Private Investigator, to discover? Of course, she has it all figured out, or at least she thinks she does. That's why she hired the "sleazy PI."
Romantic suspense with lots of characters (Stormy? Claud? Gio? Carlo? June? etc) who might have killed the man if only the pair can find that last diary. In fact, everyone's a suspect except Mitch, but even he has secrets. But what happens when Mitch falls for Mae? Or when Mae falls for Mitch?
Humor and mayhem throughout and a few surprises for the pair.
12. Secrets in Death by J.D. RobbEveryone has secrets, and some are deadly. Lt. Eve Dallas is in an upscale bar (owned by Roarke, of course) with a friend when she tries to save the life of a woman, Larinda Mars. How could a murder take place in a crowded bar and no one sees a thing (or a who)? It's up to Eve and her Homicide crew to find out who killed Larinda Mars and why.
Larinda Mars is a collector of secrets and makes people pay to keep those secrets secret, but somebody is tired of paying and paying and paying. Who wants Mars gone and the secrets secured? Eve will have to wade through the many suspects to find her killer.
This series just keeps getting better and better, and every plot is unique. Yeah, there are some smirks, but how can a reader not appreciate the chemistry between Eve and Roarke?
13. Dark in Death by J.D. RobbIn this 46th novel in the series finds Eve Dallas looking for a killer who is writing his/her own story. Following the path of another author, this killer seems to bring those characters (and the story) to life by killing a main character.
By reading the author's original stories, Dallas focuses on the plots to determine who might be next. Her homicide crew (and with the help of Roarke's extensive library) all contribute to catching the killer (an anti-hero) before too many more lives are lost including that of the original author, who penned the novels in the first place.
Will this killer outsmart Dallas? Or will she catch the killer first? An intriguing plot and a fast paced read.
14. The Bill of Obligations: the Ten Habits of Good Citizens by Richard HaasA must read for any person who wants to be a good citizen; it's written by a man who has served in both Republican and Democratic administrations. Moreover, it is written in an unbiased, straightforward manner about the crisis of our rights-based democracy and the deterioration of our democracy (and how best to work toward fixing it.
The ten obligations are as follows:
Be informed
Get involved
Stay open to compromise
Remain civil
Reject violence
Value norms
Promote the common good
Respect government service
Support the teaching of civics
Put country first
The information on each of these obligations is laid out in a manner that left this reader thinking. Not a long book, but lots of notes; lots of quotes by leaders from the past (Madison, for example) and present (George W. Bush, Barak Obama, for examples).
15. Leverage in Death by J.D. RobbThis 47th novel in the series doesn't disappoint. Lt. Eve Dallas and her homicide crew is investigating a series of murders that appear, at first, to be a suicide. Why would a man wear a suicide vest into a meeting that is announcing a merger suddenly detonate a bomb?
So begins a case that has Dallas and Roarke working closely together as Peabody and McNabb are heading to the Oscars with Nadine. Can the pair work together? Will they solve the murders that just keep piling up?
Another unique case from the pen of J.D. Robb.
16. Only For You by E.L. Todd 17. Forever & Always by E.L. Todd
18. Edge of Love by E.L. Todd
Boxed set (called Forever & Always) of the continuing saga of the romance of Scarlet and Sean, two best friends who like to have sex...err, love each other, I think except when they are livid with the other. Cliff-hanger ending, but this reader won't be continuing the series.
19. Gork, the Teenage Dragon by Gabe Hudson4.5 stars actually--Cute coming-of-age story as told by the protagonist, Gork The Terrible.
Gork is a dragon, albeit a soft-hearted one (big hearted is how he puts it). He doesn't have any of the Will To Power he is expected to have IF he is to find his Queen, make her his, and go on to conquer a planet. Following his adventures from birth through his Crown Day (the day he must find a queen who will accept him) is often humorous, is often fraught with danger (for the small horned dragon), and is often silly (as teens can be when looking for acceptance).
Yet, can he deal with those around him who wish him harm and survive the day? Will he learn that his greatest weakness might just be his greatest strength? An interesting fantasy novel, that happens to be the debut novel by Gabe Hudson.
20. The Good Luck Girls of Shipwreck Lane by Kelly HarmsTwo young women with the same name, Janine Brown, living in the same city in Iowa, believe they are winners of the Home Sweet Home Network's "No Place Like Home Free House Sweepstakes.
Janey and her Aunt Midge, who has entered Janey and herself multiple times, drive to Maine to collect after being congratulated with balloons and banners while Nean, who has wished it into happening, boards a Greyhound bus and travels there in the meantime, breaking into the house.
So begins this novel that finds these two young women (and Aunt Midge, who may be the best character in the novel) living together and cobbling together an uneasy friendship/family.
Each will learn to lean on each other, and each may find romance in uncommon ways.
A heartfelt novel with many memorable moments.
21. Promises of Mercy by Vella DayThis is the first erotic romantic suspense novel I have ever read. It has a little bit of everything.
Amber Delacroix, an oncology nurse, is a suspect in a murder. She's also dealing with Chris's accident. He's in a coma and may not survive, and then he dies (and again, she's under suspicion of his murder).
The paramedic, Stone, who worked on Chris, is a caring man and finds he's interested in Amber. His roommate Cade is the police detective in charge of these murders, but once he realizes Amber isn't the mercy killer, his feelings for her change. Which one will become the love of Amber's life? Is it Stone, who is sweet and caring? Or is it Cade, who is more forceful? Or will it be something more?
Who is the murderer? Will Cade catch the murderer before he or she kills again?
A few What-the-tuck trends (winks, green-eyed character, smirks) and some graphic sexual scenes (the town is called Rock Hard after all) so be forewarned if this bothers you, but overall, not too many typos...so I'd read the author's works again.
22. Me Before You by Jojo MoyesLouisa Clark is an ordinary girl, who gets a new job after being let go from a job she loved. A six-month job that will change her and will change the man she is taking care of. Louisa has to work works, which helps out her family greatly.
Will Traynor's mother hires Louisa, if reluctantly, to become a caregiver for Will, who has had a life-changing accident leaving him a quadriplegic. Will is angry and treats Louisa like an arse (as he admits he is), but with the help of his medical caregiver Nathan, Louisa makes incremental inroads into helping him.
When Louisa finds out inadvertently just why she's been hired, she sets out to make changes. Will they be enough?
Heartbreaking, yet hopeful story worth reading.(Of course, I may be the last person to read this one.)
23. The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell by Robert DugoniThe story of a young boy, who is born with red eyes (ocular albinism), his mother and father, and the remarkable life he has.
His mother has a strong faith, and she believes that it is all "God's will" and that he will have an extraordinary life.
Samuel is bullied for his red eyes, called a devil boy and Sam Hell (his name is really Samuel James Hill) from the time he enters school through much of his life. It is only with the unconditional love of his parents, his first friend, Ernie Cantwell, and a new girl in school, Mickie Kennedy that Sam gets through school.
Told from the perspective of Sam himself, the story unfolds and has the reader quickly turning the pages (or it had this reader reading late into the night).
24. Stings and Stones by Jennifer EstepA series of short stories and novellas featuring Gin Blanco (AKA the Spider) and crew (Finn, Bria, Fletcher Lane). Most I have read before, but it was great re-reading them again. In the e-book edition, there is a teaser for Only Hard Problems; the book includes Spider and Frost, a cross-over novel.
Lots of references to some of Estep's other books (Bigtime series), too.
A great way to dip a toe into the Elemental Assassin series and the Mythos Academy series to discover the magic of Estep's writing. Then read them all.
25. Oath and Honor: A Memoir and a Warning by Liz CheneyA powerful read, will have the reader racing through the pages.
What a powerful memoir of the events leading up to January 6, the insurrection on January 6, the aftermath, and the results of the Select Committee! It's a must read!
Liz Cheney writes candidly and cogently about the events, and how she felt her oath to the Constitution outweighed party loyalty, her position as a representative to Congress, and her continued belief (warning) about the man who should NEVER hold the office of the president again (and why). She was willing to sacrifice her reputation, knowing she'd probably lose her re-election bid by choosing the right thing to do. (The same was true for other representatives who stood on principles and voted for impeachment.)
If only there were more people willing to hold that oath to preserve and protect the Constitution above any person...
Her defense of the republic continues to this day with her support of those who do not believe the lies Trump continues to tell, and those who stand up to the truth.
Powerful testimonies from those who told the truth and jeopardized their lives and so much more.
If nothing else, the epilogue should be read for the warning Cheney presents.
Some quotes of note:
"One leader ceding power to the next, gracious in defeat, pledging unity for the good of the nation--that is what is required by fidelity to the Constitution and love of country. We depend upon the goodwill of our leaders and their dedication to duty to ensure the survival of our republic. Only a man unacquainted with honor, courage, and character would see weakness in this." p. 364
"...the events of January 6 demonstrated that Donald Trump MEANT what he said. He actually intended to achieve the most extreme things he was suggesting. And on the morning of January 6, 2021, he believed that his schemes would allow him to continue in the presidency despite having lost the election." p.365
"Those words--WE THE PEOPLE--describe our power and our responsibility." (p. 368)
26. Only Hard Problems by Jennifer EstepZane, now the Arrow in charge of the Imperium's elite fighting force, has only hard problems in this tale. He may be heir apparent to his family's wealth and power, but he's just discovered there may be another heir, a sister he never knew he had. He's a Regal with psionic powers, always acting the fool to confound others, but actually he's dealing with a ruthless, powerful man, a grandmother who's planning his engagement to a woman he cares little for, and a group of unknowns called the Techwave making extremely lethal weapons.
He is also obligated to go to a summer solstice celebration, that will only add to his problems. Bring them all together, and there is lots of action including sound effects. All the action is seen through Zane's perspective. Will the problems be solved, or will there be more problems crop up? Is Zane a hero, a zero, or somewhere in-between?
A couple bonus chapters from the previous book in the series, Only Good Enemies, from Zane's perspective, round out the novel. A fun series from the pen of Estep; looking forward to the next one in the series.
27. When We Were Sisters by Emilie RichardsA touching story of two sisters united by their shared experiences in the foster care system.
Cecelia is now an internationally known rock star, and Robin is a stay-at-home mother, who has put aside her photography career, for her husband and two children.
When an opportunity arises, after a car accident, Robin becomes involved in a documentary with her foster sister, Cecelia, retracing some of the experiences of their (and other) care in a system that doesn't always protects those they serve.
Some secrets will come out in this odyssey; some relationships will be tested, and some moments will be heart-wrenching. Will there be a happily-ever-after for either or both of them? Definitely worth the read.
28. Queen Takes King by Gigi Levangie GrazerTwenty-fifth wedding anniversary party of the New York Power couple shows a man and wife dancing divinely, and the photo ends up in the paper the next day along with another photo of the husband leaving a woman's apartment the same day. Thus begins the story of a very public, very acrimonious divorce in which one up-manship is the goal.
The wife has had it with Jackson Power (Jacks) and his affairs, and she's suing him. Both remain living in the upscale Manhattan apartment, they divide it up while he tries to reconcile with her (and keep his mistress happy with the promise of marriage).
It plays out like a chess game, and each move brings them closer to checkmate, but who will win this game? Ancillary characters like their daughter, the tv personality (mistress), the seducer, etc. make the novel come alive. Fun story.
29. The Ride of her Life by Elizabeth Letts
The true story of a Maine woman, Annie Wilkins, who decides to take life by the horns (actually, saddle) and ride her horse to California in 1954. Alone, without family, having lost the family farm, and given about 2-4 years to live because of her lung condition, she decided to live our her mother's dream to see California.
With all her clothes on her back, eleven dollars in her pocket, notebooks for chronicling her journey, her beloved dog Depeche Toi, and her Morgan horse Tarzan, she heads out in November 1954.
As she continues, she finds the kindness of strangers and a way to make money with her newfound fame by selling note cards and keeping up her correspondence with friends,
Fascinating reading of a time when people were more welcoming and willing to be generous helping this 63 year old woman.
30. The Light in Hidden Places by Sharon CameronSet in Poland during World War II, this is the fictionalized story of sixteen-year-old woman, Stefania, who, along with her younger sister Helena, save thirteen Jews from the Nazis. She risks her life daily by providing them with food in the ghetto before hiding them in the attic of the girls' apartment.
To make it more heroic, she is forced to give one of her rooms to two German nurses. All she wants is to protect her "charges" from being discovered. Getting a job in a factory helps in procuring food for them, but at the same time, she is leaving her sister and these people vulnerable. Will she be shot or hung for her "crimes," or will she return home to find them gone, rounded up and killed?
Even knowing the final outcome, the author wrote a novel that kept this reader on the edge of her seat with every twist, every encounter, and every close call. Another story of heroism in the face of great adversity, lest we forget!
31. If You See Them (Young, Unhoused, and Alone in America) by Vicki SokolikThis nonfiction should open the reader's eyes (and for this reader, it did) to the plight of many young people who slip through the cracks of society because they are young, unhoused, and alone.
These kids have left what parental home they have for various reasons such as abuse, addiction, mental health issues, or even a lack of personal safety. They could not take it any longer, or they've been kicked out by the adults, who should be protecting them. Often called "runaways" these kids are technically called "unaccompanied homeless youth" by the government. These kids end up couch-surfing at friends or living in parks, or on the streets making do. They also may be in schools barely subsisting on free breakfasts Because of this status, they are not even foster care children (with the rights accorded to foster care children).
The author, Vicki Sokolik, discovered one of these kids because her (biological) son, Cameron mentions Amanda, a girl in his class. Although she's a high achiever (on a college tract in high school), she's about to drop out of school to work full-time to pay for an apartment. She and her boyfriend David are living with his brother, sleeping on his couch temporarily. It is this couple and a family, who are living in a motel while trying to save for the money to acquire an apartment, that begins the impetus for the philanthropic program of Starting Right, Now (SRN) that the author (and her family) eventually starts. A program that helps unaccompanied homeless youth acquire homes allowing them to become productive adults.
The stories of some of the people, who have participated in this program, are told either through their own words, Vicki's words, or mostly, a bit of both. The stories are heart-wrenching and poignant. There are triumphs as Vicki learns to navigate the laws that affect these youth, and as her nonprofit gets off the ground, she and one youth work to get a law changed to help all kids in these situations. But there are often setbacks as well.
This book wakes the reader up to the issues facing homeless youth, and it is worth reading about the lives of Amanda, Sergio, Shaq, Courtney, Amari, Skye, and the others (too many to list them all). Many write in their own words about their lives before and after being connected to SRN, and some of their stories are both heartbreaking and triumphant.
Vicki doesn't make herself out to be something special; she is just a person who sees beyond the surface of the people her nonprofit helps, and she wants to make them successful.
32 Anna, Rachel, and Charlet (The Highlander series) by Marti TalbotThree novellas set in the Scottish Highlands which features Anna, Rachel, and Charlet respectively.
Anna is abused by her father, who also abuses his wife (chaining her to her room) and younger daughter. He then sends her off to marry Kevin, the laird of the MacGreagor clan, but first he beats her nearly to death and chops off most of her hair, hoping she will either die or offend the man. Kevin, for his part, needs to marry, but is love with a mystery woman (a fierce warrior) he once saw. Will they marry or will she die first? Will he ever see his mystery woman again? Can there be a happily ever for the pair, assuming she survives the ordeal of her father's beating?
Rachel is the younger sister of Anna, and this is her tale of life with the MacGreagor clan. After what she has experienced at the hands of her father, she wants nothing to do with any man, thus she never wants to be married. Yet there is one who desires her, but will she change her mind? Rachel would rather live freely, come and go as she likes, and has become adept at stealing and spying. Is it possible there could be a romance, or will she die for not being cautious enough? Especially when there is possibility of a war between the clans?
The third novella features the red-haired Charlet, who was given by an emissary of the English king to protect and raise her as a newborn. Now of marrying age, (like the other strong women in the other two novellas), she really doesn't desire to be married even though every young clansman seems to want to take her as his bride. Added to this there are some English men who want her killed. How can the MacGreagor laird protect her from those who want kill her? What is so important about her? With all these men fighting for her hand in marriage, will there be a war between the clans? Who is the traitor and why?
As romances, they are very clean stories (the author writes that there are passionate kisses, but mostly kisses on the head and listening to heartbeats and being held). The names of the characters seem too modern at times (Scottish clans had a strict naming pattern, which is not seen here), and there may be the anachronism of the marriageable ages of the girls because young girls were often married at 13 or 14 (and several 16-year-old girls were just considering that they might be married in a few years).
33. After You by Jojo MoyesFollowing up the novel, Me Before You, this is the second book in the trilogy, and Louisa Clark is floundering after the death of Will.
First, she travels to the European continent and then returns to the flat in London she purchased. She meets (Ambulance) Sam when she falls from the roof of the building of her flat, and then she meets Lily, the previously unknown daughter of Will.
Between those two, her life is further changed/disrupted. To deal with her grief, she goes to a Move On group. There, the counselor (Marc) asks the various members questions, eliciting feelings and thoughts about how they are dealing with these deaths (mothers, wives, friends, etc.). As Louisa attends, she creates a circle of friends, which offsets her difficulty with her boss. She's offered a fabulous job in New York, but will she take it? Will her grief lessen, or has Will's death affected her too much? Will Lily ever settle down? Will Sam become more than a friend?
Starts a bit slow, but picks up rapidly. Looking forward to the third book in the series.
34. How to Marry a Matador by Ginny BairdA cute romance between a young businesswoman and a businessman/matador. Waking up to find herself married to Fernando, Jess knows it is a mistake. Or is it?
The chemistry is there; the hot sex is there, but is it enough? Jess wants to get the marriage ended, but does she really? Fernando doesn't want to end the marriage, but can he convince her otherwise?
35. The Summer Book Club by Susan Mallery
Three woman come together as friends through the summer book club. The only rules for the club is 1) no sad books, 2) no pressure, and 3) yes to wine. Their choice for this summer is romances.
Carrie is living in Bar Harbor, Maine when her sister and brother tell her to leave, that she's too dependent on "taking care of them." That they don't need her, and she should go "collect her inheritance." Distraught at this and her last boyfriend running out on her after she helped him (fixed him) out, she heads to California (Los Lobos).
There she meets Laurel, who is divorced with two young girls. She's dealing with her daughters...one who misses her Daddy SO much, the other who begins to hate all men.
Cassie also meets Laurel's best friend, Paris, who chased off the best (bravest) man she knew over her anger issues.
As the three women become better friends, they also find men who may be interested in them. Can Cassie make a life in Los Lobos and discover a man who might care about her (and not need fixing)? Can Laurel teach her daughters, particularly her older daughter, that all men are not bad (and don't abandon their family)? Can Paris forgive herself and find love again with her ex (and his son)?
A light, summery read with a bit of romance and lots of family connections.
36. Connections in Death by J.D. RobbIn this 48th novel, Eve Dallas, Delia Peabody, her homicide crew, and Roarke are solving the murder of a man, who used to be a member of a gang. He's now turned his life around when he is killed of an apparent overdose. Who did it, and why?
More murders ensue while Dallas and crew investigate the gangs and their members. Will the Eve make all the connections? Will there be a gang war over turf? Will Dallas solve the murders and clean up the area at the same time?
Robb keeps the series fresh with each novel.
37. Still Me by Jojo MoyesThe third book in the trilogy finds Louisa Clark moving to New York City to take a job as an assistant to a young woman married to a fairly wealthy man. Because it's a second marriage for the man, the bride, Agnes, has to deal the petty jealousies of the other rich men's lives. Louisa becomes a "friend," as long as she helps Agnes.
At the same time, Louisa is trying to maintain a long-distance relationship with Ambulance Sam. She learns to embrace New York City, but will NYC embrace Louisa's singular style? Will she and Sam be able make their relationship work, or will the distance destroy it?
A satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.
38. Vendetta in Death by J.D. RobbNot all superheroes are good, and in this 49th novel in the In Death series, Eve Dallas and crew are tracking down a killer who is a vigilante called Lady Justice.
It is a vendetta! Torturing and killing men who have raped, abused, and/or cheated on women is on the agenda for the murderer. Even though these men may be "bad men" Dallas must stand for these victims and chase down their killers.
Who is behind these murders, and will the NYPSD Homicide track down the killer before any more men are killed?
Robb keeps her plots fresh, finding new ways to murder people in unique ways for unique reasons.
39. Golden in Death by J.D. Robb"God in the hands of angry sinners" could be an alternate title for the fiftieth novel in the In Death series as Eve Dallas and crew as they take on the two apparently random deaths from a quick, lethal poison delivered in plastic golden eggs. What links these two deaths together besides the identical method of the murder?
How many people will die from these seemingly random packages being sent to people out of the blue?
As Dallas and Peabody work together with the homicide and EDD squads, they discover a decades-long friendship at the heart of it. What more will they discover?
Suspenseful plot, and a bit scary if this poison were to fall in the wrong hands. How does the author continue to come up with such interesting and different ways to kill people?
40. Earls' Trip by Jenny HolidayThis is a historical romance (rom-com) with a twist. Three friends (two earls and a viscount) take a yearly two-week trip away, but this year it's a bit different. Saving two young women from a marital disaster has them joining the men, sorta. The men, especially Archie, want their usual earls' trip routine (rules and make the request that the two ladies stay away) until they don't.
Archie, Lord Harcourt with the help of his two friends (Lord Marsden and Lord Featherfinch), rescues his childhood playmate, Clementine, and her younger sister, Olive.
Clementine may be grown, but she's still the "wild child" that Archie remembers. Yet, she's also different. She's a strict vegetarian, and she's adamant against every marrying. As Archie soon realizes, he wants to get closer to Clemmie. She may let him, but only up to a point. More than that?But can he change her mind? When the two weeks end, what next?
There's a slow start to the story; it takes time to distinguish the characters (or it did this reader as I took notes so that I wouldn't get confused). Eventually, the story was quite decent, a relatively clean romance with few What-the-tuck trends (a smirk or two).
41. Shadows in Death by J.D. RobbA blast from the past! Roarke's past comes up in this novel that has Eve Dallas and all the homicide crew, past and present, working to find the killer of a woman.
When Dallas and Roarke end up in Washington Square Park dealing with the gruesome death of a young woman, Roarke sees a man from his past. The man, who always claimed to be the firstborn son, the rightful heir, of Patrick Roarke. The fact that he is seen sets off the events of the suspenseful story.
There's no love lost between the man and Roarke, and Roarke knows Cobbe plans on killing him, Summerset, and/or his love and his life, Eve. Can Eve and crew catch the man even her boss and her commander left slip through their fingers twenty years ago? Or will she or Roarke die trying? Will Eve get justice for the woman and for the many other people this man has killed?
Another outstanding, keep-the-page-turning plot from the author. Plenty of action and plenty of twists.
42. Scam Me If You Can by Frank W. AbagnaleThis reader doesn't read horror, but this book scared me (in a good way). The scary part was all the ways a person can be vulnerable to scams, and they are outlined by a man who used to perpetrate scams on others. Now, he works for the other side and wants to help people avoid getting caught by scammers.
Read as a book group read through the library, it's a book that everyone should get for themselves (including a copy for myself). Already, I have gained benefit from it.
He has others and they will be read as well. 4.5 stars
43. The Woman in the Library by Sulari GilletiWhat a mesmerizing read, a real who-dun-it (huge thanks to Marti, who suggested I read it!).
A woman is murdered in the Boston Library, and the four people sitting at the same table in the Reading Room can't leave because of it. During this time, they become acquainted, eventually becoming friends. One of them is a murderer, but the question is which one.
This is a story within a story within a story, and it will have readers racing through the pages to figure it out.
44. On a Night Like This by Ellen SussmanThis is the debut novel by Ellen Sussman, and it's been on this reader's shelves for years. Frankly, I picked it up during a large purchase from the local Friends of the Library's book sale so that it (and others) wouldn't be pulped by Goodwill, but knew I wanted to read it after reading the dust jacket.
Why did I wait so long? This was a marvelous read, a story about a single mother (Blair), her 16-year-old daughter (Amanda), and a man (Luke) from high school.
As the novel opens, Blair knows she is dying from malignant melanoma, and her biggest concern is for her daughter and what will happen to her after she is gone. With both of her parents gone and the father never in the picture, it's a valid concern.
Into this mess, Luke Bellingham re-enters her life when he is given the task of trying to re-connect with classmates with the a list known as "List of Lost Souls." Blair is one of them, and she always intrigued him and he impulsively calls her.
For Blair, she wants no treatment, but to live her life as fully as possible in the time she has. Sex, drink, and her job as a chef. Will she find a way to balance them all? Including helping her daughter? What about the effect Luke re-entering her life?
Luke, too, has had his issues over the years. He's been a successful screenwriter, but his wife Emily walked out on him three months ago, leaving him bereft. Will he get back together with her, or will his budding relationship with Blair change things for him?
As for Amanda, as an increasingly angsty teen, can she even tolerate Luke being in her mom's life? What next for Amanda as her mom gets sicker and sicker?
Touching story with a few twists for each of the protagonists. There are enough flaws in each of them that makes this story real and a fast read. So, so glad I finally read it, despite the emotional moments throughout (especially those at the end). 4.5 stars
45. Once Upon a Time, There Was You by Elizabeth BergA family separated and brought back together when the daughter uncharacteristically disappears. While the parents are divorced (and frankly, each, on their wedding day, wondered if they were making a mistake getting married at all), their daughter holds them together and separately.
It's only when she disappears, that Irene reaches out to John, who immediately flies to San Francisco. Finding out that Sadie was kidnapped and then marries her boyfriend immediately after she's been released, only compounds the tension in the family. Yet, there are positives.
Will there be a reconciliation for John and Irene? Will the marriage of Sadie and Ron be un-done? Is there a happily-ever-after for any of them, or all of them?
Overall, a decent read, but I have enjoyed others of her more.
46. His Stolen Bride by Shelly ThackerLaurien, a novitiate in a convent in Tours is suddenly removed to be married. Laurien becomes a pawn in the negotiations to form an alliance between France and Scotland when she is stolen by Darach Glenshiel and Malcolm MacClennan on her way to her wedding to a man she doesn't even know (except that he is abusive, nearly choking her when they first meet).
Thus begins this historical romance of a reluctant bride who tangles with a Scottish warrior. She is beautiful and feisty; he is aloof and handsome. She only wants to escape and return to the convent. He only wants to secure the alliance, but will they come to respect each other? Will they come to love each other or will the comte de Villiers (and his soldiers) finally find her?
A few twists and turns, and not too many What-the-tuck trends.
47. Possession by Jessica HawkinsA man walks into a bar and discovers a waitress (not much of a start for a review or a joke, but...).
Millionaire (with all the requisite What-the-tuck trends) Beau Olivier goes into a dive bar, and there he is taken with one of the waitresses, Lola. Before the night is over, he makes her an offer to possess her for one night, to have her for his own (despite the fact she is involved with Johnny). Not just chump change, but life-changing money (money they might be able to purchase the bar they work in). Will Lola take the deal? What does Johnny want her to do? Is Beau on the level, or a predator?
Interesting story that leaves the reader with Beau driving away, Johnny and Lola wondering what next. Spicy, erotic tale with some overtones of domination and submission.
48. Faithless in Death by J.D. RobbWow! How does Robb do it? Write a timely novel about some of the things happening in the USA and keep it fresh (and different) every single time? Sometimes, it seems as if she is prescient with the Urban Wars and now with those who want women to be only baby carriers, homemakers, and subservient in all ways to men ("barefoot and pregnant").
It might be the subject matter of the murder of an artist who is killed for her sexual orientation, for loving the person she loves, but it is more than that. It is the repressive nature of the Natural Order group, which kidnaps, uses, and abuses women to grow their organization which had this reader in tears more than once. Of all the books in the series, this one hit harder than all the rest as Eve Dallas and her ever-expanding crew not only track down the killer, but take down evil.
Or as the last several lines of the novel say: "Love, she thought, doomed some--she saw it nearly every day.
"But... And bullpen full of cops or not, she took Roarke's hand.
"Some, love saved."
49. Hamnet by Maggie O'FarrellA historical novel set during the time of the plague (the "pestilence") about the family of Shakespeare although his name is never directly said.
His wife Agnes, his children, Susanna, Judith, and Hamnet, and his extended family live in Stratford as he eventually develops his career writing plays, poetry, and his theatre in London. The loss of their son, Hamnet, to the plague affects the whole family thereafter. Will the family ever recover? Will there ever be reconciliation?
50. Domination by Jessica Hawkins (part of box set)The second book is the same as the first: a million dollars for sunset to sunrise for Lola and Beau. He wants her, and she and Johnnie have found the price of owning the dive bar, Hey Joe, is more expensive than they thought.
It's more than that, Beau has a hold over Lola; she might be falling for him, but then he might just be falling for her, too. Even as he dominates her, expecting her to submit, there is something else going on. When they get themselves into a life-threatening situation, Lola's admission may just doom them, or will it? Especially after a frank discussion ensues that changes everything.
A cliffhanger ending leading to book three.
Some sexual acts and plenty of What-the-tuck trends including a green-eyed millionaire protagonist with chiseled jaw who smirks, winks, and even tucks hair behind Lola's ears.
51. The Pisces by Melissa BroderTheo one night on the beach. Sitting on a rock, a swimmer approaches Lucy. There is a connection there, but her group, led by Dr. Jude, wants only her and the rest of the women to be thoughtful before any dating.
Who is Theo, and what does it mean for Lucy? He is enigmatic; he is mysterious; he is drop-dead gorgeous and young looking.
Spicy, sex scenes, discussions of addiction, situations of suicide attempts, and magical realism round out this erotic novel. Because of these issues, there may be triggers for some readers, so be forewarned.
3.5 stars actually
52. Provocation by Jessica HawkinsThis is the third book in the Explicitly Yours series in which Lola, after being emotionally crushed by Beau in the previous book, is taking matters into her own hands.
Lola loves him, but she also hates him for what he did to her. So she's going to make the man dance to her tune now and take her power back. Leaving Johnny was easy enough, but keeping Beau at bay while learning to play the "game" is difficult.
Can she pull off the power game, or will she succumb to him? Will he ever admit to loving her?
She returns to the Cat Shoppe, the place where they first met, and gives him the lap dance of his life (furry cat ears and all). Will he be able to restrain himself from touching her? Or will she tempt him too much? Another cliffhanger ending leading to the last book in the series.
A fair amount of What-the-tuck trends, but overall a decent read. 3.5 stars
53. Obsession by Jessica HawkinsThe whole series in one package tells the story of Lola 's and Beau's relationship, mostly from Lola's point of view,
What's the price of a person? Can a person 's love be bought? Or can one own another? That's ultimately the theme of this series as Beau learns what is important. So, too, for Lola. Can love exist for two strong-willed peropket?
Some minor typos, and quite a few What-the-tuck trends throughout. Read the last three books as a set.
54. The Secret Life of Sunflowers by Marta MolnarThe story of Johanna Bonger, Vincent van Gogh's sister-in-law, tells of a woman determined to get van Gogh's art into the world after the death of her husband, Theo van Gogh. Told through her diary, which was given to Emsley Wilson by her grandmother, Violet Velar.
The story is told through the diary, but also through current events in Emsley's life. How did Violet come to have this diary? And what are the secrets the box the diary is in, hold? As Emsley is cleaning out her grandmother's house, she discovers treasures galore including the people Violet has surrounded herself.
There is some romance, but mostly it is historical fiction at its best as the author slowly reveals the life and love of Johanna and Theo, which is interspersed with Emsley's story.
A few What-the-tuck trends throughout especially in chapters featuring Emsley.
1. A Holiday by Gaslight by Mimi Matthews
A Holiday by Gaslight is a historical romance set during the Victorian era. In fact, it's set during the year in which Prince Albert died (casting a pall over the Christmas holidays at Appersett House).
It is a story of social mores gone wrong as times are changing. Sophie Appersett is a "lady" but the gentleman, who is courting her, is not. Mr. Edward (Ned) Sharpe is a draper's son, a tradesman. Sophie has no dowry because her father has spent it putting in gaslights in their country home, but her younger sister (the beauty), Emily does.
As the novel opens, Sophie meets with Edward and calls off the courtship. He seems too inflexible, and "they don't suit each other," according to Sophie.
Edward, on the other hand, is devastated. He's trying really hard to be a true "gentleman," following the advice of a book on etiquette. He spoke to her father to get his permission to court her in the first place. Her father sees dollar signs (and more ways to improve his ancestral home) and agrees. For her father, Sophie agrees to try again despite Edward's reticience.
When forced together at the house party, the pair finds more common ground. Sophie wants change as she's read in Charles Darwin's Origin of the Species. Will Sophie change her mind about Ned? Will Ned let go of some of his "rules?" Do they have a chance at real love?
And what of the spoiled Emily? Will she make a titled match? Or will she also have her trials in regards to courtship?