Reviews by Donna W. (Wauwatosa, WI)

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The Wives of Henry Oades: A Novel
by Johanna Moran
excellent historical fiction (11/30/2009)
The author used some real life legal facts to create an excellent historical fiction book. The Wives of Henry Oades is an easy read, and it was such a vivid telling of the story that I could picture myself in many of the scenes. The main characters were likable and I could feel sympathy for both women. A great book club read which would surely lead to an interesting discussion about the morals at the turn of the century.
Serena: A Novel
by Ron Rash
Vivid Language, Interesting Characters (9/2/2009)
The vivid language and interesting characters make this a fast moving drama. Serena grabs a hold of the reader's attention from her first introduction, and her greed and ruthlessness are balanced by Rachel's sweetness.

The author uses beautiful phrasing, and wonderful descriptions. He has developed a taut drama that builds to a speeding climax.

There is a lot of information about the logging business, and this is countered with information about the environmental movement which brings in a good counter balancing perspective.

I enjoyed the book and found it to be thought provoking. I still will find myself thinking about the characters, and wondering what made Serena tick.

All in all, a good read.
Sweeping Up Glass
by Carolyn Wall
Wonderful Book (8/10/2009)
From the very first page the language created such clear pictures that I was immediately drawn into each scene. The setting is the 1930s in Kentucky, and I could feel what the times were like.

Olivia is the appealing main character, and the surrounding characters add great dimension. The book has such an honest feel to it that one can't help but get attached to all of them.

It was a great read.
The Housekeeper and the Professor: A Novel
by Yoko Ogawa
Wonderful Story (3/27/2009)
I picked this book up, and didn't stop reading until I was all done! It was a wonderful, gentle story with great characters. An unlikely relationship between a brilliant professor and his housekeeper and her son leads to a beautiful friendship. The math references added to the story, and really didn't distract. A completely enjoyable read.
Valeria's Last Stand
by Marc Fitten
Valeria's Last Stand (3/2/2009)
This was a charming story mainly about a romantic triangle but with political undertones. The characters are endearing and many of the situations are humorous. It was an easy read, and because it was written in a fable format it had a somewhat different feel to it. Definitely worth reading.

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The Hunter's Daughter
by Nicola Solvinic

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