The Mistletoe Inn

3/5
I must have read this story before, it was definitely one I knew and was familiar with, but I still read and finished the book. It was a quick and easy read. Definitely predictable.

I did not Like they used the term “hearing impaired” that is not the correct term to use. The correct term is D/deaf or hard or hearing, HoH. I did like they included a HoH person. That’s not a lot of something you see.

I like reading this books at Christmas.

A Christmas Carol

5/5
Its just as good as I imagined. This was one of my must reads this Christmas, especially after watching The Man Who Invented Christmas. Quick read and just a heartfelt story many of have seen throughout our many Christmas.

I wanted to see how accurate which movie was to the actual book. The Man Who Invented Christmas seems pretty accurate but thats about his life as well. Disneys A Christmas Carol with Jim Carey and Colin Firth seems pretty spot on. Nothing beats reading the book tho.

Will be reading again.

The Brothers of Auschwitz

 

4/5
It was a brutal read. It will stay with me a long time. The brothers asked questions that I always wanted to know and they voiced their opinion. From the belief in God to why so many did not rise up.

It’s amazing what the siblings went through and I liked they did not end it when the war ended and the camps were liberated. I had tears several times, after they were saved. Truly heartbreaking what they went through afterwards as well. Why were there no mental help ?? So many dealing with so much.

What I did not like and took me some time to get used to, was the cadence of the book. The words did not flow well. Once I got used to that, it was much better. There also interjected words that were maybe sounds that didn’t always match what was going On in the book. Don’t know if it was the translation or just how the brothers remembered it.

If you can get passed the writing, I would recommend this book. What made it more heartbreaking is that it is a true story. A story that needs to be told, remembered, and learned from. Not to be repeated.

I wanted to add some more here, I thought it was great to hear from a Jews point of view why no one stood up and over took the guards. They were in the millions and the SSmen we not, when I read the answer from his point of view, I still wondered why. He was true about the Germans took away the ability to think, and dehumanized them. At that point in time all they could think about way finding something to eat. The Germans knew what they were doing without a doubt. I know there were resistance groups fighting back but imagine if the all fought back when the were all together in huge groups, before the starvation, before the dehumanizing. Yes, Germans had guns, but the were out numbered, by thousands.

An Anonymous Girl

 

4/5
I have to say I really liked this one. The authors did a great job of creating the perfect cat and mouse. I flipping pages and had to finish last night. Just when I thought I had it all figured out they threw a curve. Loved it.

I felt this was better then The Wife Between Us. I wanted to yell at Jess and pull my hair out for some of the not so bright moves she makes but applauded her in the end. She used what she learned to her advantage. Definitely recommend.

What I liked is that it was not a completely off the rails type of book but one that lead you to the end some of the other book from the past. Seems books have shifted some to become more exciting. Not all books need that, and this was one of those. Just enough twists and turns without being overly done. Well written.

The Night Portrait

 

4/5
First I want to say I did like the book. It just didn’t live up to they hype it was given. In my opinion. It was enjoyable and pretty easy read. But I lacked the up and down of a good book. It was enjoyable but seemed lacking.

I did like the dual story line. Would have liked to see some characters development. I did like the characters for the most part. Would have liked to learn more about them. There had to be more to Edith. I

I did like the fact that I was interested enough to actually look up some of the history involved in this book. Hans Frank, The Butcher of Poland who was executed in Nuremberg. Not a nice guy at all. The. the “Lady with Ermine” that was well done. When I looked up Cecilia’s portrait it listed the only four portraits painted by Da Vinci. One of them being the Mona Lisa, Lady with Ermine. Interestingly he paint a portrait of another mistress of the Duke’s Lucrezia Crivelli. Which is very interesting since she was also in the book. Ginevra de' Benci who is the only one in the public view in America. This I found and enjoyed. The author did her research as well as has some creative storytelling.

I did enjoy the book just missed the bumping road. It kept me interested and it was a pretty fast read.

All The Missing Girls

4/5

This was another book that intrigued me. The time, went forward two weeks then back one day, the day before for the two weeks. So we see the story sorta backwards. It was different, and seemed to be odd, but as we get to the end of the story we see many things that make you "ah, ok, wow" At a mid way I was wondering if the mystery would be ever solved and seemed to just kinda stales a bit, then bam, it all comes together and I was pleasantly pleased.


I did have part of Nic's story figured out, but the rest not so much. I understood what Nic was saying about you can't really ever go back. I liked the characters and especially like it was set in NC, which is somewhat local. Some of the things that were said and done in youth comes back to haunt.


There was one question that kinda, was not answered but maybe it was more of the, didn't want to see it so it wasn't there. Then again, maybe it was all a matter of prospective. I really liked this book and will read more from her.

Sawkill Girls

4/5
This is not a normal read for me, but I really liked it. There was the whole scene or two I did not like, and I know I may take some flack for this but, I am not a romance reader, especially gay romance. Sorry, I just don't like it. The scene could have been deleted and still get the right feel. I did skim over all that. 

It was a fast easy read that kept interested. If you liked A Wrinkle In Time, I think you would like this. That was the kind of feel it had. Loved, loved the moths. And the rock. Liked the girls but the moths and rock was awesome.

This book had me asking questions from the get go, and was pleasantly surprised how the conclusion went, very interesting. That is the part that reminded me the most of A Wrinkle In Time. The book even mentions it one one of the scenes.

This book was definably worth the read.

points for Wrinkle In Time

The Dark Backward

2/5
This was absolutely one of the worst books I have read. It did not keep my attention at all. When I was reading it I literally fell asleep every time. I did have high hopes and this book failed drastically. I felt like I was being lectured on things that were not that difficult to understand until he started writing.
I gave a second star because he did finally tie everything thing up and had closure. I skimmed the last part till the big reveal.

Was definitely not a book for me.

The Roanoke Girls

 

4/5
What a messed up book. I have seen it compared to Flower in the Attic, and I can see why. It is definitely one crazy messed up book but still good.

There were so much more to the characters then one would expect. Most dealing with a taboo issue that happened in the house. The story was good and kept me interested. When all the pieces came together, I have to say I was blown away, not expecting all that

What I questioned was the fact all these Roanoke Girls turned out healthy with no issues. Also why did no on do anything about it ?? After these questions and seeing how Lane actually was the one to get away. I did not agree with all her choices it understood them.

What a ride this book was, loved the twists towards the end. Definitely worth a read.

I Know Who You Are

4/5
Holy moly !!! What did I just read !?! I will start off by saying this is not a book for everyone. It definitely had the shock value. If you are easily offended or have issues with certain relationships, and abuse this is not for you. I want to give fair warning on this.

Aimee the main character has had a terrible childhood first a father who resents her for killing her mother in childbirth then a mother who kidnapped her and threats her horribly. There are scenes of abuse that just made me want to throttle her. Aimee eventually grows up and becomes successful.

As the plot twist starts to reveal itself, I’m pretty sure I have it figured out but kept telling me no, no way. As it turns out I was right and wrong at the same time. Definitely had a shock value. Just think maybe she could have chose to change parts of the twist.

The story kept me interested and found it hard to put down. I liked “Sometimes I Lie” better and hope her next one is just as good as her first. I know there are a lot if mixed reviews, and understand their complaints. This one just, is not for everyone.


Points for Never-ending Story, Mary Poppins, and Speak and Spell

The Other Mrs.

4/5
This one had me going, and made me realize there is so many in pain we may not see. It deals with two very important health issues. Kinda goes with the saying, 'Be kind because you don't know what battles someone is fighting.'
When I started putting the pieces together I thought for a doctor Sadie kinda is not all that bright and just some of the things she did and what she thought really did not seem to be that of a smart ER doctor. Especially when I cam to Imogen. I would have definatly done things differently. As the story moves along you catch glimpses of why Sadie is the way she is. I did put some of the puzzle together but wow, not all of it or all of the way it came together.

I will admit, I did not like Will from the beginning. Why ? The whole hair thing. I am not one for the man bun or any kind of man bun. Big turn off for ne. I also did not like the way he treated Sadie, she is a doctor but he treated her like a two year old. I guess I am just too independent for a lot of my own good.

When everything is revealed, I was wowed. Maybe I should have seen it all instead of just some of it. This is one of those that will stay with me awhile, because it could happen, or parts of it anyways. I am sure some of it was writing creativity. There were pages I just felt for the characters, and wondered who could do this to another person ?? It kept me interested, it kept me guessing, and it kept me on edge. I did however, still have many questions. It would have been nice to have had some of them answered. The biggest of course is how was she able to be an ER doctor ?? I do recommend this book.

The Turn of the Key

 

4/5
This story was not what I expected, that can be a good thing. I liked the story, and I liked the setting in Scotland. I honestly would not like a smart house myself, it did serve as a good setting. I was not sure what to think of "Rowan" but she seemed pretty much like someone I would know. Honestly ?? Who leaves their kids with someone they hardly know ??

There were not a lot of plot twists. They were not needed for this book. I did have most of it figured out except a things. It did have that creep book feel. I would say it was better then Dark, Dark Wood, but not as good as Woman in Cabin Ten. With Ruth Ware it tends to be a hit or miss kinda thing.

It was an enjoyable read, and kept me interested.

Cilka's Journey

 

4/5
This was a story that was hard to put down. It made me think. It made me look up the Russian Gulag. I learned. I wonder how much was actually fact and how much was creative storytelling. I also now want to know what happened to Josie and her baby. Idea for next book maybe.

I like the time switch she used between Auschwitz and Gulag. You got insight on both places. I liked that Lale and Gita were part of this book as well as Lale giving information about Cilka’s time In Auschwitz as well. I wanted to know what happened to Cilka since The Tattooist of Auschwitz.

People can be so cruel to each other for no reason. It’s difficult to understand why Russia would so vicious and cruel to their own people much less those the deem in need of rehabilitation through hard labor. What was allowed to happen was unbelievable. There seemed to be not real consequences for actions that deserved, yet the things that did have consequences made even less sense. My heart broke several times reading this book. The Russians were no better then the Nazis in that aspect. Yet there were some kind and inspiring characters as well.
I would also like to know what happened to the doctors that helped so much.

I definitely recommend this read.

The Night Olivia Fell

 

4/5
** spoiler alert ** This book was a mystery feel of Agatha Christie or Mary Higgins Clark. Not a lot of violence or a bunch of plot twist but just a good mystery who done it. I enjoyed this book. The alternating viewpoint I think adds to the story.

When I read the first couple chapters with Olivia, I thought her to be a typical teen that is somewhat spoiled and somewhat immature. As we learn more about her and her quests and different relationships you see her grow and she comes to understand why some choices were made. Several characters actually show growth.

I honestly don’t know how Abi was able to go every day to the hospital and see her child lying there and knowing she is not there a and only being kept alive because of the baby. I don’t know how realistic that is, but made for good reading.

Did I have it figured out ?? I did, then the author makes it easy for you to change your mind with all the things going on and the people hiding things.

It was a nice easy read, kept me interested and I enjoyed the story.

The Huntress

3/5
This was a book I thought would be better then it was. I read The Alice Network so I thought maybe this one would be better. I was wrong, and I was disappointed. There was so much potential behind the premises of this story. The hunter becomes the hunted, a female hero and villain, and a female protagonist. Something that I could have just loved to read. Where do I start with the disappointment ??

The first thing that I really did not like was the whole romance scenes of the story, they were not necessary, nor were they needed. I did not think it made the character any stronger or better. This was not a romance novel, nor did it have to be a long gay romance between one of our main characters and another pilot, in Russia. Then she made is seem like the whole regiment was gay, in 1940's Russia. This was a huge issue with me, it made no sense and made it seem these women were less stronger because they had to have a lover. Totally wrong. Were there gay pilots and soldiers ?? Maybe, I don't know. But I am pretty sure they were not that open about it. The solider/brother that was gay did not have the romance scenes and that was fine. They mentioned it a time or two but did not make it a huge part of his story. This was not a romance story so the whole love scenes I felt took away from the story and the strength of the pilot. Nina was a very strong person who survived so much, these did not seem the right direction for her.

The other thing that bothered me is the lack of more info on the aftermath of the war and the huntress' history. We know she was horrible, and then she just reappeared as a mom and went on with life. When the protagonist questions it, excuses were made and that was pretty much the end of it till the end of the story. It seemed like a lot of info may have been missing from her, and her story. We know how two of the character became friends and how that we finally know what happened to Seb, all of it. We just don't learn much about Anna/Lorlie. The whole Jordan photography, was a point I thought I would like as well, because I am a photographer. Unrealistic, it is not that easy to do what the author had us believing she did. Good camera, but otherwise, off base.

The story was long, there was a time or two I actually lost my attention to it. The story I think could have been shortened a bit, she over does some parts and it just drags to me. I remember this from The Alice Network. It was basically the same, I liked the characters but it was just was to long.

It was not an entirely horrible book, it had it's good points as well, I liked the characters. Nina being the tough pilot, that survived so much was a character I liked, especially married to Ian. Tony, Ruth, Jordan and her dad all characters I liked. I just thought, it could have been better.

The Death of Mrs. Westaway

4/5

This was a book that was definitely a slow burn. Not a lot of action, but had some really good twists and a red herring or two. I think it was better then the Dark Dark Woods, it not quite as good as The Woman In Cabin Ten.


I liked the characters and had most of it figured out, but there was still a twist or two. Overall I liked this book had a creepy feel to it and kept me interested.

Lost Roses

4/5

I loved Lilac Girls, and when I saw this I was a bit unsure if i would like it as much as I liked her first novel. You hear so often of the writers failed attempt at a second book especially if it is one of a series. I have to say, I was not disappointed with this second novel, and looking forward to the third. I was turning the pages quickly to find out what happens and who makes it out alive.

That being said, there were two things I wish she may added; What happened to Varinka ?? I had a love hate relationship with her and would have liked to know what happened to her. Good or bad. I also would l have see more of a deepening work from Eliza, I know her work was great and she worked to help those who needed it and eventually helped her friend, but she really did not see much happening, war wise. It was the great war, and her part of the world was not effected so much. I would to have liked to seen more there.

Don't get me wrong, the book was great. Held my attention and loved the surprises that were added. Loved it. Defiantly worth the read.

Sometimes I Lie

 

5/5
Holy moly !!! What a ride this was. And that ending, keeps you guessing.

When I read about this book I was excited to read it and a little nervous it would let me down. It did not. The author kept the twists and surprises coming. I had some of the things figured out but then she flipped it again and kept it going. Did not want to put this book down. Definitely a page turner. Loved how all three of the timelines come together.

Definitely will be reading more from her. Truly enjoyed this book

Luckiest Girl Alive

 

4/5
When I started this book I didn’t have great expectations. After reading many mixed reviews I still decided to read read it as I tend to like some books with bad reviews. I just figured I was warned and would not be too upset if I did not like it.

That being said I actually did like the story. I may not have gone through what Ani did but I do remember making some not so great decisions. I think a lot of what Ani feels she needs to do is bailed on the fact she needed those who did what they did to own up to it. In one years she faces two huge upsetting life altering events not far apart from each other. Though out the story she is constantly talking about how she bettered herself with the clothes, job, the blue blood Fiancé, with the huge ring. For those who wronged her, especially Dean.

It’s in the last chapter you actually see the growth and confession she really needs to help put the past where it belongs and stand up for herself a lot more to Luke, who doesn’t want to talk about “that night”. Luke who you see has some of the wrong traits that is not good for Ani.

Included are others that helped her one way or another her teacher Mr. Larson, and Nell. Her Mom and Dad on the other hand you have to wonder are they trying to help her or themselves.

I did like this story and was not disappointed. Had a good pace and even tho you want to smack TifAni you can remember being young and making stupid mistakes.

Murder on Black Swan Lane

 

4/5
The story was good, some of the characters were good but I had a hard time connecting to them and the story. It should have been a slam dunk of a story for me but it just seemed long and the characters I liked best were the two kids, the seemed to have the most personality of them all. I'm not saying it was a bad story, it just seemed long and their were not a lot of action til the end.

Maybe the second one will be better, I don't know but if i run across it i will pick it up and read it.

Hunting Prince Dracula

4/5

Loved this one as much as Stalking Jack the Ripper. Didn’t have all the same characters as the first one but introduced us to new ones. Thomas is still her someone that is the one who belongs together with her. The even each other out. Liked most of the new characters and hopefully they’ll find there way into one of the other books. Would love to see more of the uncle as well. I also liked that Audrey Rose did some growing in this book. It was a fun east read that kept me interested. The twist wasn’t huge, but was a good one. Definitely will be reading the next one in this series.

We Were the Lucky Ones

4/5

story was based on the true story of the authors family. I am amazed at how well this family did. I think this was a smart family. The family could have had it worse if some of the decisions they made were different. The courage, it took, truly amazing. The book was good, the authors updates, and notes made it better. I think she did a good job, and the story needs to be told so this kind of thing will not happen again.

Yes Again, Yes

 

4/5
This was my first giveaway, and I can honestly say, it was a good book. The characters, at one point it think I didn't like each of them, but then again I did. This being true especially for Anne. I did want them all to do well and successed in there endeavors. The story shows the power of family, and forgiveness.

My only complaints, the author was a little long winded in some parts of the story were it was not necessary. For me that took away from the story. The other I would have liked to know more about George. He I would have liked to seen in more parts of the story.

All in all it was a good book with a good story

Beneath A Scarlet Sky

5/5

I still have tears in my eyes, truly an amazing story told by an amazing author. I was hooked from the very beginning, and did not want to put it down, when I did put it down, I could not wait to pick it up again.

It was history, it was an adventure, it was a journey, it was a love story, it was just amazing. I loved the characters, I found Pino to be a strong brave and courageous man. His faith made the story even better, as I too believe faith is a strong thing.

This was a historical fiction that was close to what actually happened to Pina Lella during WWII in Milan and parts of Italy. I have read many historical fiction books and loved many, this one also touched my heart as the others and then some. My emotions were all over the place. Maybe because I know it was more real, or the people were real. It was truly a story that i won't forget, it's one of those stories that stay with you. The twist will have me wondering for a long while. I did learn some new things as this story takes place in Italy, and includes Mussolini. I was not to familiar with II Duce till this book. I did look up several things and people, they proved to be interesting as well as accurate.

The author's follow up, was a big plus for me. I wanted to know what happened to the characters including Pino. I will admit, that last line is a doozy.

I know you

3/5
This book was a decent book. Didn’t have a lot of twists and turns but it, did have a good reveal. The story was an easy fast read, that kept me interested. It moved a little slow. The ending felt a little rushed. I also thought they should have used Simon more especially considering what he did for a living.

All in all still a good book.

The First Mistake

4/5
I liked this book better then "The Other Woman" by the same author. I pretty much had everything figured out but still an enjoyable read. I liked that Alice actually grew during the story, it was nice to see her actually being proactive, and listening to those that gave good advise. I did not hate Beth, do did not come off as a mean person out for revenge but as someone who was wronged and wanted it to be made right. The ending helped make this book even more enjoyable.

Behind Closed Doors

4/5

The is probably my favorite of B. A. Paris. There were not a lot of twist and turns but there was a lot things going on. The secret about Jack and Grace is learned almost from the beginning. You probably had most of it figured out early on in the book.

Grace was amazing as well as Millie. I got angry and was on the edge the whole time waiting to see what would happen. I got mad and sad at the same time when it came to Molly but Karma takes care of that. Esther is the only one who has a clue, though she do much she in the end, proves to be a true friend.

I definitely recommend this book. The pages flew by and I did not want do put it down.

Lost Girls of Paris

** spoiler alert ** Rounded down 3 1/2
I liked this book. Kept me interested and I found myself routing for the girls. The reason for the half star ?? There were a couple of things in the book that was inaccurate time wise. The biggest was when Grace goes to the bar to meet a girl. She describes everything. One of which was the state seals. She said fifty state seals. There were not fifty states in 1946. Alaska and Hawaii were not states at this time. Therefore, there are only 48 states. The other one I didn’t catch as quickly and thought it sounded off so I looked it up. The cafe that Grace goes to,and sees the tv with the news broadcast of the accident. 1946 just after the war TVs I’m sure we’re not that readily available but I looked up the broadcasting. News broadcasting did not start till the 50s. This I looked up to make sure and broadcasting did not start till 1954.

Setting this two inaccuracies aside, and there may be more, these just the ones I caught. The book was good. The story flowed well. There were some excitement. I was yelling at some of the stupid things Marie did and dumbfounded when we found out who betrayed the girls and that whole section of the SOE.

I was not fond of the ending. I think it just was a quick ending that really didn’t seem to be realistic, or a good closure. I also didn’t like what happened to the pictures. The ending and the pictures did not go together but instead went completely opposite and left you unsettled.

The Wife Between Us

rounded up to 3 1/2

I liked the book for the most part. The first half just seem to go a bit slow. Was expecting that first twist, liked it. I sorta had it figured out.

The second half of the book was sorta like rereading the first half again but from a different view point. I liked the twists but seemed to lack something, they we not explosive or had that wow factor. Maybe i have been reading to many thrillers, or just expecting to much.

What I didn't like, was the Duke unfinished story, this left me not happy. You can mess with all the people you want leave the dogs alone.

The Paris Package

3/5
If you like the Tommy and Tuppence series by Agatha Christie, you may enjoy this. It was not your typical
Historical Fiction to me.

It started off well enough but the ending was just not there. This left it to be continued I think. We never find out what happens to several of the characters that part of the story.

Stella is the definition of a spoiled rush girl but actually grows through out the book. The package once revealed just fell short.

All I. All it was not a bad book, just could have been better. Will I read the second book ?? Do t know. If I do it’s because I want to see if characters I liked made it or were rescued.

points for Agatha Christie's Hercule Poirot

Pretty Girls

3/4

This book seemed long to me. It was liked an over abundance of things that slowed the story down. The saving grace was the last half of the book when things actually start happening. I did have it figured out rather quickly.

I enjoyed the second half a lot more then the first. That’s when things finally start happening and the pace got better. The story was good. Definitely unique up just seemed long.

The Nightingale

5/5

Wow. I had been wanting to read this book for awhile. When I finally got it, I was eager to read it. The first chapter I that was good and loved the quote. Then is somewhat slowed. Then it picked up again and found it hard to put down.

Isabelle awesome character. Loved her spunk and like her sister worried about her saying or doing the something at the wrong time. She shows incredible strength. I saving people and in what it took to save the downed pilots.

Vianne. I grew to like. She seems to easy going and doesn’t make waves. This changes as the story moves on. She also saves people. Jewish Children. One of the kids I liked she stood up for and tried to help but was. Ot successful, this saddened me. Her strength is the quiet and steadfast.

The story was really good and when reading have some tissues handy. This story focused more one the non Jewish people and more on those who where helping fight the Nazis and those who are left to survive the war.

Definitely recommend

Big Little Lies

4/5

** spoiler alert ** When I first started reading this I was not sure what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised. I kept reading to find out her did what. I wanted to know what happened. It was funny, but the further you read the more things took a more serious turn. Even with the serious parts I found myself laughing.

What Celeste endures just made me angry and baffled me why she would stay in an abusive relationship. She never tells anyone or actually gets help till a little further on. When she does finally see a councilor and they make a plan. I wanted to scream at her because so many woman never have the money to actually put into a plan like she did.

I loved that Jane had growth, and we learned about her past and Ziggy’s dad. She probably was actually my favorite character. I like when she finally stands up to the other parents and defends her child. Especially after she put him first and sought out a councilor for help.

Madeline I loved her spunk and thought she was more patient then I with with the ex and his wife. I think Abigail needed some tough love. Even more so when she had the website.

All in I I really enjoyed the book especially the twist towards the end. Blew me away was not expecting it but see why. I didn’t not feel any pity for who actually dies. With everything that was done, my sympathy level was low and was not unhappy. Will be reading more of her books.

Number the Stars

4/5

Started this book, and was drawn in pretty fast. I remember some of the kids i knew reading it and when I saw it at the thrift store pretty cheap decided to buy it. It's been in my TBR pile for awhile.

I can only imagine, as a child reading this, and then rereading it again as an adult. As the adult you know what is happening and how horrific the Holocaust was/is and value this book as it is told from Annemarie's point of view. I even liked the authors acknowledgements explaining, this story was a work of fiction, she did use some actual truth in the story. One of which is the handkerchief, I have never heard of it before and wondered if it was real, and turns out it was.

The resistance is also a part of the Holocaust that should be remembered as well, they were very important and gave up their lives fighting for what was right. Sadly, a lot were executed or sent to camps by Nazis and their own people.

Since this book was written for a younger audience it was a pretty fast read, but did hold my attention and had me wanting to Annemarie to to be successful in her quest.

The Break Down

4/5

Enjoyed this book, the second I have read from her and have like both. Kept my interested and keep my wondering who is doing what. I did figure out the main part of why Cass seemed a little off with her memory, thanks Lifetime movies. I did not figure out who the murderer was even though I had my suspicions. I, however, would not have waited that long to do something. I did like how Jane's husband is actually a nice guy and gives Cass some good advice.

All in all I was happy with he book, and looking forward to the next one.

Two for the Dough

4/5

Loved it. Loved Grandma Mazur !!! Laughed out loud many times. Easy, fast read that held my attention. Brought in new and older characters. Will definitely keep reading this series. Tho it is a little dated. Pagers and pay phones, not something you find in the nowadays settings. Thought it added to the story. I’m sure when it came out it wasn’t as dated, at that time.

Pastel Orphans

5/5

This book, wow, it may be a book of fiction, but the author did her research very well. I loved the points of view and Henrik grew up in front of us. He is truly an amazing person.

The story was incredible, and just very well written. While reading, it was very hard to put down but when i did it definitely took a few minutes to set that aside and come back to reality. The details are not left to imagine as she details them perfectly for you. It will take time to recover from this book. This is one of those stories that will stay with you. I have read many books in this genre and this is one of my favorites. No matter how many times you read how horribly one human can treat another, their is always that one that grabs your heart and wrings it and makes you hope, and cry and cheer and wish for the best. This is that book. All the way thru to the end. It's amazing the resilience of people. If I could have scored this book higher I would have.

The Girls in the Garden

4/5

I enjoyed this book. Kept me interested the whole way thru. Been extremely busy and finally decided to take the day and read. Did not guess who did it but had a sense of who it was. Some parts I thought were a little to grown up for the kids of that age, but then it could be that way in London. And I am a strict mom. But liked the story. Definitely will continue to read more of her books.

Murder Is Easy

4/5

Really enjoyed this book once I was able to read it without so many interruptions. Seems like every time I picked up this book to read there was one interruption after another.

This was my first Luke Fitzwilliam novel and I thought he was pretty good. I read reviews from people who did not like Fitzwilliam and was hoping I would not agree with them as I am an Agatha Christie fan. I'm happy to say I don’t agree with them. It is technically listed as a Superintendent Battle, but he only appears towards the end, with a little part.

Christie throws several red herrings in this novel, and keeps it interesting. At one point I thought I had it all figured out only to be wrong. Loved the finally twist. Loved the characters and setting. Kinda puts those small villages in an interesting view.

The Traitor

4/5

** spoiler alert ** I love WWII fiction history stories, as well as some biographies of those who have a story to tell from the same time era. This book did not disappoint.

I loved that Talya was not bold and brash but quiet and steadfast. Proving sometimes it’s the quiet strength that wins. She never gave up no matter how dire her situation. She was also very smart. After going to the war front as nurse she realizes just how much life can and will be different. Secrets need to stay just that, secrets. I have not heard of The White Rose, and was impressed with them and tho they may have seemed insignificant, makes you wonder just how important they really were.

Garrick was perfect example of what you expect of a Nazi soldier. He just plays his part so well and adds to the story. I went through many emotions with this book. Sad, angry and happy, just to name a few. It’s a story that will remind you why history should never be forgotten.

Definitely recommend this book.

Jar of Hearts

4/5
This one had me guessing and reguessing did she or didn’t she ?? I saw a lot of it coming was still second guessing who did what. Geo at times just seemed cold but then you see things that makes you wonder how much of what changed her ?? Especially since we get to see her at different ages or times in her life.

I really liked the different time periods and points of view. I have to admit I went thru several emotions reading this book. In the end you come away with all the answers. Good or bad, questions were answered.

Bonus points for the Dodge Neon and Merrell boots.

Definitely recommend.

“In every story, there’s a hero and a villain. Sometimes one person can be both.” Jar of Hearts
Sums it to me.

The Woman In Cabin 10

4/5
Finally one of Ruth Ware’ s book I liked. Friend kept telling e to read “the right one” of hers and I would enjoy it. This one I did. I enjoyed it. I ha e to admit the beginning started off with a bang then I was thinking maybe Lo is loosing her mind.

I had figured out some of who done what while other parts I did not. Easy enough read and kept me interested. Just need to read those pages of Lo, maybe crazy.

Loved the idea it was on a yacht and once out to sea there is not much you can do to hide or change things. The author did a great job of hiding the women in cabin ten.

An Unwanted Guest

4/5
Of all the books I have read that she wrote, this is my favorite one. Definitely has an Agatha Christie feel to it. That last little twist I saw coming but still loved it. It kept me interested and I liked the characters both good and bad. Page turner. Had to find out who did what.

The setting is just right. Several times I wanted to be warmer even though it’s about 75 degrees today. I’m not to fond all that snow and cold but made for a good story

Definitely recommend this book. Especially if you like Agatha Christie.

The Perfect Girlfriend

3.5 stars

kinda back and forth on the rating. It seemed really long in the beginning, but the ending.

That ending wow. The beginning was long and seemed to just not go anywhere but when it finally moves. I liked it. I did also like the gender switch and the fact it was taken to the airlines.

You know she’s the stalker but as you read more it’s an a ha moment. The end gave it the extra half star. I didn’t know whether to cheer for her or scold her.

Bring Me Back

4/5

This book was on my ‘to read’ pile for some time. Someone in another group was talking about this book and my curiosity got the better of me, so I decided to read this book on that recommendation.

I was pleasantly surprised. It was a fast read, that had me guessing till the end. I somewhat had an idea who did what, but not the same as book. Which is good. The ending was a good one and made you think about things such as time and who to spend it with.

I kept wanting to know what happened all those years ago. Did Finn kill her? Was she alive and hiding? So any questions that needed answers. The author delivered and delivered very well.

Everyone Brave Is Forgiven

3/5
This was another hard one for me to rate. To me it was too depressing and long. I know war is not supposed to be all rainbows and gummy bears but even the happy moments seemed depressing to me. I was not fond of either Mary or Hilda. I did like Alistar and Zackery. The racism does play a big part in this book and one of my favorite parts, through Mary Zach is taught to read and write even through his LD.

Mary does show some growth in the book, which is good, however Hilda and Mary both just didn’t impress me. Instead I found both of them to be spoiled, rich, girls.

It wasn’t a completely bad book. There were some good parts. I expected more of this book and it did not deliver.

Then She Was Gone

4/5

Very different then what I as expecting. I don’t know about others but it did put me through the emotional ringer. A lot of this book was predictable but still kept my interest and I still wanted to see what happens next.

Was a quick read and told from different viewpoints. Which kept it interesting. Loved the ending how clever Ellie was to let someone know where she was. Definitely recommend. I will be reading more of her books.

Stranger in the House

4/5

Wow, was not expecting this book to be as good as it was. Several twists and an ending that leaves you speechless.

I read her book the couple next door but this one is even better. Has the same two detectives as well. They are not a series as far as I know and that makes it better to me.

Definitely worth the read. Kept me guessing till the end.

The Perfect Mother

4/5

This was a pretty good book. No major twists or turns but a few surprises. It make you think about us as a society and how media can effect our view and opinions. At least me anyway I did like the nice surprise of Token. Did I guess who did it ? Actually no I did not.so that was good as well. It did keep me guessing if Winnie did it. Which is also a good thing. Overall I liked the book. Just wished it had more of twists and turns.

The Sleeping Beauty Killer

3/5
This one seemed long. It’s was all over the place with Laurie not having the same host. The ending I liked but was a bit predictable. I wanted to read all of this series one right after another but I think I’m gonna complete the series at a later date