The Big Finish
by Brooke Fossey
Cute (11/23/2019)
This is a cute, albeit predictable story. Although I enjoyed the book somewhat, I never connected with the characters in a way that made me say "you must meet my new friends". The summary on the back of the book tells you everything you need to know, and it's not hard to fill in the gaps, or see the ending. Unfortunately, this is a story that has been done all too often in the recent past. I gave it a three because the writing is engaging and believable.
Meet Me at the Museum
by Anne Youngson
enjoyable (4/30/2018)
Meet Me at the Museum is an enjoyable exchange of letters between two middle-aged people who start out as strangers and gradually progress into a powerful friendship. At times, the story is very informative about primitive peoples and their culture. At other times, quite relevant and current. Although there is not much movement in the story, I very much enjoyed getting to know the characters and their vastly different lives.
I love the format of the writing - the exchange of letters has had me since reading Jane Austen and Ella Minnow Pea by Mark Dunn. As this is Anne Youngson's debut novel, I trust that the next will be that much more engaging - Meet Me at the Museum was certainly gaining its stride by the conclusion.
I do have to say that I adored the conclusion. I love it when an author provides enough to allow me to continue to consider the possibilities, but not so much as to tie it all up in a tidy bow.
Happiness: The Crooked Little Road to Semi-Ever After
by Heather Harpham
charming (6/29/2017)
I admit, it seems strange to use the word charming to describe such a medically centered book, but it is truly nothing short. Although a difficult topic, Harpham manages to portray her deeply personal story with charm and grace. Her voice never loses its underlying positivity even in the face of traumatic medical decisions involving both of her children. In spite of this, I still felt as if I were disconnected from them, like I was on the outside looking in. Even so, I found Happiness to be an easy read, with an entirely lovable family.
The Gypsy Moth Summer
by Julia Fierro
great summer read (5/8/2017)
The premise of the Gypsy Moth Summer by Julia Fierro is an interesting one enhanced by the diversity of her characters. The addition of the moth facts and the parallels between the gypsy moths and the individual elevated my engagement and interest. Fierro paints a vivid picture of a world few of us have had access to; what it might be like to feel as if you are an outsider coming into that world, or maybe even born into - how one generation might pass that feeling down to the next. I you are looking for a book to take on vacation this summer, I highly recommend adding this one to your pile!
If We Were Villains
by M. L. Rio
captivating! (4/5/2017)
For those of you who are Shakespeare fans, this is an innovative tale of intrigue with a unique twist on language and method. For those who, so far, haven't come to love the Bard's style, this will convert you! Although I was able to predict the final result, the journey was so well composed, I found myself unable to walk away. Even when I did put the book down, the characters didn't leave me. Set in a small arts college, Rio develops characters and place in a way that makes you feel as if you are there - so vivid are the rooms, the grounds, and the people. And as twisted as this group of theater students is, I was connected to them.
Written almost like a play without the stage directions; I loved the inclusion of the original language. Rio has an incredible gift for prose allowing one inside this group of characters in a way few authors do. I can hardly wait for her next book!
The Typewriter's Tale
by Michiel Heyns
well-written, however flat (1/27/2017)
Although The Typewriter's Tale was well written and maintained its integrity to the subject, I found it to be less than engaging. I never developed an attachment to or a sympathy for Frieda, the main character, or to her employer (Henry James) for that matter. Accounts of authors are always intriguing to me, whether fiction or non-fiction. I hoped this fictional account of the relationship between an accomplished author and his typewriter would provide a platform from which one could imagine the intimacy that relationship implies. Unfortunately, the story fell flat for me.
Manderley Forever
by Tatiana de Rosnay
fascinating (12/23/2016)
Reading Manderley Forever by Tatiana De Rosnay instantly transported me back to one of my favorite homes in literature. Although this is actually the biography of Daphne De Maurier, I couldn't help but relate everything to my treasured memory of Rebecca and Manderley.
De Rosnay easily transitions from her own impressions of the time and place into Daphne's. I loved the novel-like quality of the writing, and the ease with which we were allowed into Daphne's quite eccentric life. Although I was not at all surprised by Daphne's lifestyle, it was most certainly quite risque 75 years ago.
I truly feel as if I know this person, as though we were acquaintances, even friends, not she simply the subject of a book I read. De Rosnay did an amazing job transporting the reader into Daphne's life, her mind, and her books.
This book is for anyone who loves biographies, Rebecca, or studies of real women who didn't fall in line with traditional female roles. For those who are not ready to have those roles shattered, I would recommend a different book. For those who have read or seen some of De Maurier's darker works, this book will enlighten and expose the inspirations affecting Daphne. I highly recommend this book for a few reasons. One, I love delving into the inspirations and writing habits of a beloved author and De Rosnay delivers a beautiful story. Two, for anyone who is learning to live with a different lifestyle choice, or knows someone who is, it honestly reveals an unveiled understanding and acceptance of living outside of societal expectations.
Her Name Is Rose
by Christine Breen
Lovely (3/12/2015)
On the first page of Her Name is Rose I immediately cringed thinking this was going to be another cancer story, like so many others. However, I was thrilled to discover that was not the case. Christine Breen has created a lovely story of a mother and daughter. Her Name is Rose is a quick read, not too intense, and quite benign. This makes it a good beach choice, or a perfect air travel companion. That being said, I would not recommend it for someone looking for something substantial or worthy of a book club discussion. The book addresses the emotional topic of adoption, yet somehow the reader never becomes emotionally invested.
Her Name is Rose is a pleasant read.
The Scavenger's Daughters: Tales of the Scavenger's Daughters, Book One
by Kay Bratt
Great read! (7/14/2013)
I have to admit, when I saw the cover - I judged. It looks like it is going to be one of those flowery, sappy books with absolutely no depth. I was wrong! This is an intelligent, albeit quick read. I loved everything about this story, from the poverty stricken, but gloriously giving couple, to each of their rescued daughters. In more than just the obvious way, this book is a fabulous reminder to not judge a book by its cover.
A Nearly Perfect Copy
by Allison Amend
A Nearly Perfect Copy (4/11/2013)
I read this book because I am fascinated by the art world and its many facets; however, very quickly, I found myself caught off guard by the dichotomy found within the walls of the story. I found the parallels to be a fascinating ride sweeping me through the pages of this well thought out story. It is an interesting, intelligent, thought provoking novel that reaches far beyond the art world. Much like Jodi Piccoult, Allison Amend makes you consider your stance on timely, moral issues. If you are interested in the art world, or the medical field, you will find this a great addition to your 'to read' shelf.
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