Books most popular in the United States●Fiction & Literature

Release date: 2023-03-14 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Family $13.99

Comments

1. DEEPLY MELANCHOLY NOVEL OF A FRACTURED FAMILY - If I had had a better idea of how this sad book would unfold I never would have started it. As a person who has struggled for decades with suicidal depression, I didn’t need to read about these women’s circumscribed lives, capacity for self-deception, and willingness to inflict harm on their daughters, not to mention husbands and lover. Suffocating.
2023-03-19

2. A Great Book Club Pick! - This book will rip your heart out before slowly putting it back together and developing into a heartwarming story. A well told story that highlights many issues including childhood neglect/ abandonment, trauma, and depression and the dangers of not getting help for them. This book highlights the ups and downs of William’s life and how his childhood experiences shaped his adulthood. William felt he was never recognized as a child until boys on the basketball court invited him to play. His parents didn’t pay much attention to him, due to his parents grieving about his sister’s death. Therefore, William knew he had to create the life he wanted on his own. Thanks to advice he was given early on about basketball, he was able to be successful in high school, where he was awarded a scholarship to play for Northwestern University. William found support in his college girlfriend Julia, who supported him along with her family throughout college. William and Julia ended up getting married. William’s life is consumed with basketball, teaching, grad-school, his wife and a new baby, but will this be enough? Is this the life that makes him happy? This book will have you turning the pages to find out. I loved how even though the book was focused on William, the author chose to have each chapter from a different perspective, including William. Each chapter that was not from the perspective of William was from a person who was important to William, such as his wife, daughter, sister-in-law, on their perspectives and how he affected their lives. This author does a good job of capturing the struggles and grief of the characters! This book is not for the light-hearted as it dives into heavy-hitting topics. Even though this book will leave you feeling satisfied in the end, it’s one of those stories that leaves a lasting impression! Perfect for those who are fans of Elizabeth Strout and Elizabeth Berg as this book reminds me a lot of books written by them. A great book club pick as well as this will lead to many interesting discussions.
2023-03-14

Release date: 2022-04-05 $14.99

Comments

1. First Stars - I’ve never given any of the thousands of books I’ve read five stars. Mostly because there could have been a little tweak here or there. An ending not as strong, characters too complex, unnecessary story lines, etc. This book was just right! From the first page to the last it was all just right. Loved it!!
2023-03-22

2. Guy says READ THIS BOOK - Best Read in years! Since my wife was worried I might find it “too girly” - it seems important to also note that I am a guy. I hope this review may help more women get the men in their life to give this one a go! It has been ages since a novel so instantly grabbed my attention and and so continuously kept me engaged. A great story of love, loss, perseverance, family, and the power of being true to yourself and to others wrapped in a layer of humor that makes it such an easy read. The writing is intelligent, witty, thoughtful, and emotionally engaging from the first page to the last. You immediately fall in love with the protagonists and despise the villains in just the right measure. Never too sappy or too mean spirited. My only critique is that it went too fast leaving me sated by the story but sad that it had to end.
2023-03-14

3. Every woman should read this book! - I simply could not stop reading this book. I even read the part at the back where she thanks people. Because I just didn’t want to put it down. Her sense of humor and irony, and some of the silliness and all of the clarity. It is just so well written, and I’ve never met a book like it. It defies categorizing. it’s realistic and down to earth, and yet magical at the same time.
2023-03-14

4. Self Lessons - I’m not a person who blindly follows the pack when choosing what to read. But I’m glad I picked up Lessons after so many reviews and an insanely long hold line at the library. Garmus drew me into the story with quirky characters living in familiar, yet unfamiliar ways. Their struggles seemed all too familiar today; women not being taken seriously for being intelligent and fiercely loving. The unfamiliar was made less so by the gently pithy descriptions of rowing and chemistry. Like the women in Elizabeth Zott’s audience, I began to feel those strange things were within my grasp. Then Garmus somehow manages to tie all those desperate pieces and people together in a most satisfying way. Thank you! I’ve recommended Lessons in Chemistry to all my friends.
2023-03-13

5. Beautifully Written - Lessons in Chemistry really outdid itself. I was not expecting this book to blow my mind away - but I’m fact it did. It was written so thoughtfully by someone who’s smarter than smart - there was not a boring page or line in this novel. I also loved the relentless advocacy for equal rights for women.
2023-03-13

6. really good - i liked this book a lot and how the main character was a girl, the us cover isn’t that great though, considering the ant said they hate books about women having pink covers and the u.s release has a pink cover. when i bought it in print i ordered a uk print because the cover just looks better in general
2023-03-03

7. Made my top book list of all time - As I explained to a friend, this is a story about a woman standing up for herself, and those she loves, trying to do right in the world and right the world in the process. It made me laugh out loud. Its truth made me cry. Perhaps it will resonate with those who know beyond a shadow of a doubt that one should never underestimate a woman.
2023-03-01

8. A bit silly - I’ve never met a chemist who speaks the way Elizabeth speaks. There was just so many eye rolling moments. As a woman in science the sexism, racism, and elitism is not so avert. It’s systemic and quiet. It’s a cute story and love the ending and plot but it’s drowning in unnecessary words.
2023-02-20

9. It’s never just Chemistry - The writing is straight forward . It immediately plunged me into the story. I was never weary or tempted to skim over a character or an explanation. I am certainly no scientist but, found every word to be the frustrating truth of the world I grew up in. Good karma and new adventure to a great writer! Jenn Jackson
2023-02-19

10. Read It! - Highly recommend this book…layered storylines and laugh out loud funny at times, while reminding this female reader how far we’ve come as women. A well written book with a boatload of social commentary…without shoving the writer’s commentary down your throat (which I detest). Well done!
2023-02-18

11. Complicated Feelings - I loved many of themes in the book (female rights, exercise as therapy, strong single parent, wonderful side characters who I loved especially the dog and Mad) and the story moved me to tears many times. But the authors relentless attack against God left me feeling not so good about the book. She could have had that in the story but she kept hitting it so hard and she portrayed people of faith as pedophiles or crazy, murderous lunatics. It was such a turnoff, I now won’t be recommending it because I don’t want to discourage people from their faith . The novel is so unbalanced in its attack against God that it left me feeling morose at the end.
2023-02-17

12. Don’t Miss Reading This Book! - One of the best books that I’ve read in a long time!! The characters were unique, complex and memorable while the story was captivating and unexpected. Such an enjoyable read about an intelligent, strong woman forging her own path in the world and challenging gender, cultural and societal norms. Share it with your daughters and granddaughters!
2023-02-08

Release date: 2019-03-05 $13.99

Comments

1. Great. But I wish it was more raw and real. - Good Book. I have to say that I started reading this book, because “Almost Famous” is my favorite movie ever. My number one. And I like rock and I have a podcast where I talk about rock from this times, weekly. And I also love Fleetwood Mac. So I had high expectations and this was my first book by this author. I have to say that it was not what I expected. But it was very good. I feel that the format made difficult for the author to build the characters deep enough for you to actually connect with them. I feel like some (even though I like them all), specially Wareen, who I really like, he feels a little bit like a caricature sometimes. Graham thought, got raw enough that he made me cry with him. He was my favorite and the one I felt more real. But then others were a little bit too on the surface for the complexity they were supposed to have, for example: Camila, Billy and Karen. I needed the author to get deeper inside of them to understand them better. Daisy was ok, you are able to understand the girl, she is just a bit unlikeable too often. She victimizes herself at some points too much, but you get why and she redeems herself. Her parents story is unnecessary, if the author was going to build such a difficult to believe relationship between the parents and the girl, we needed way more context, or nothing at all, or just an open note of how those two are a couple of psychopaths directly. Because there’s not another way to understand her parents. But the rest is very good, the tour feels real. I have to say that I got hooked pretty late in the book when Graham and Karen broke up, because that was the moment where the book landed for me. When it landed and felt real.
2023-02-24

2. Couldn’t put it down - It’s incredible that a book written strictly “interview-style” can hold my attention for so long. I absolutely loved this book. Read it in one sitting! I don’t know if it’s because Almost Famous is my favorite movie, Fleetwood Mac is my favorite band, or simply that it’s a story unlike anything I’ve read before, but either way it got me HOOKED. The writing is incredible. You can tell how different each character truly is just through their words, which really paints the story. The band is so convincingly real it made me question if the Aurora album was on spotify. I would give anything to see this come to life! I have nothing bad to say about it, other than it worsened my Fleetwood Mac obsession!!!! Highly recommend
2023-01-07

3. Run of the mill - The book gets stars for being a well written, flowing read. It holds your attention, absolutely. But it is so anti climatic. The ending is boring and really cliché. If you need something to just… occupy your brain for a bit without expecting much from the content emotionally, this is a good read for when you feel like that.
2022-12-28

4. Daisy Jones & The sSix - Brilliant! As the band broke through into the big time, I felt the thrill of their expectations. As Daisy and Billy mixed ambition, brooding love and great talent, I felt the magic. Without hearing a note I felt the music - heard the songs of Zeppelin, Jefferson Airplane and Fleetwood Mac.
2022-07-19

5. everyone has to read this book - i am not joking when i say that this book gives me life. i was instantly hooked from the very beginning. the writing is a different format (told in a documentary style) but i absolutely loved it. there was no slow parts (because of the documentary style) and i just loved the story. the writing was beautiful and it was just such an amazing book that after you finish you just sit there for a couple of days figuring out what to read next because nothing can come close to this book. all good things from me
2022-03-27

6. I felt like I was deep into bingeing a documentary show about the band. - Such a unique way of telling a story, I felt like I was deep into bingeing a documentary show about the band. The story felt a bit predictable and repetitive at times, but the last couple of chapters are what bring it all together to make it such a great story and what really made me love it. The twist at the end, the perfect back and forth of perspectives happening in real time that brought it all to a close leaving you full of feels. Chefs kiss
2022-03-11

Release date: 2023-03-07 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Family $14.99

Comments

1. Tepid goings on in Brooklyn Heights - While ‘Pineapple Street’ is an engaging and easy read, the whole theme of a WASPy old money Brookyn Height family and their travails comes off as a bit forced. Names of renowned and not so renowned Brooklyn establishments are thrown around with abandon and minimal context. And the life events confronting everyone come off as ‘Dynasty’ like. Enjoyable for what it is.
2023-03-18

Release date: 2020-01-06 $3.99

Comments

1. Beauty out of tragedy! - This is one of the most inspiring books I’ve read in a long time. The author made Edward and Shay as well as the deceased passengers seem real. The living and supporting people for Edward and the deceased passengers seem real, too. I highly recommend this book to anyone who has a heart.
2021-08-10

2. Dear Edward - This book will remain in my top five of greatest books of all time. Characters that you would recognize on the street if you ran into them. Passages where I would have to put the book down to saviour and allow to imprint on myself. A beautiful book all the way around and one that because it’s so good I can’t even pick up another book for a little while because I know it will pale in comparison.
2020-01-30

3. Beautifully done - The protagonist becomes a part of your soul. His grief, confusion and pain is described so articulately that you can feel it your bones. His life line and clearly his soul mate, Shay seems to be the one blessing in his life after the terrible tragedy he walked out of. But the older they get and the more they share it is obvious to any that Shay needed saving herself so it was fate that these two lost but exceptionally compassionate and brilliant kids came together and made a substantial difference in each other’s lives and in those who had also needed a saving grace.
2020-01-25

4. Emotional and thoughtful read - Edward is a twelve year old boy traveling to California with his mother Jane, father Bruce and fifteen year old brother Jordan. The family is moving to accommodate Jane’s new job as a screenwriter. The family has always lived in New York City. We start the story with everyone trudging through the Newark airport, security, and Jordan’s newfound independence. They then board the plane, Jane in first class and the rest of the family in the back. There are brief descriptions of some of the other passengers and crew that we will meet throughout the story. Each has their own reasons for traveling to Los Angeles; some to start new lives, some for work, some for vacation. At the end of the first chapter, we move to evening of the same day when the NTSB is at the crash site of Trinity Airlines flight trying to make sense of the disaster. One person has survived this horrible crash, and that is twelve year old Edward. Now known as the “miracle boy”, we follow Edward’s story as he tries to piece back together his life. In addition and alternating with Edward’s story, we follow the time that the plane was in the air learning more about those other passengers and crew, and how that Airbus A ended up in pieces on the ground of a remote part of Colorado. Napolitano carefully unravels this story in bits to allow us to try to absorb what tragedy occurred on that June day in . She feeds us bits of the time on the plane over the course of the next five years of Edward’s life. It is not an easy road for Edward, nor the passengers as the plane heads to its demise. Edward’s story is fascinating though, and teaches us that in every tragedy there is a chance for hope and rebirth. The book tends to be a slower read as the story unfolds. There is so much to absorb regarding Edward’s feelings. It’s not an easy read, and there are times you wonder how this boy even survives. It is beautifully written, giving us characters surrounding Edward who have their own feelings to resolve. This book is a keeper. One that made me stop and think and be thankful for what I have. . stars on Goodreads
2020-01-14

Release date: 2017-06-13 $14.99

Comments

1. A life of deceit - Could not put it down, I found myself being angry, compassionate and so sad for Evelyn. So well written, easy to follow, left me wanting more and wondering if Monique ever told her Mom the truth. Evelyn living a life she thought she wanted more than anything, giving up her soul, body and mind to get it only to not have the people and life she finally loved ripped from her.
2023-03-23

2. Easy yet engaging read - If you’re an avid reader or have a higher reading level, this book may come across easy and predictable to you. I was able to finish it in about days and really liked getting to know all of the characters. The plot of the book seems very realistic and makes you wonder if this happens in real life.
2023-03-20

3. oh my god yes. - This book is IMPOSSIBLE to put down. I read through this book in hours exactly. This book flows so nicely and has an amazing plot, it truly makes you feel like Evelyn is a REAL person. The way she writes about the characters feelings and the way she writes imagery, is truly beautiful.
2023-02-10

4. Loved Every Minute! - Evelyn’s story is so complicated, dramatic and honest and I never wanted to put the book down. I loved that this book wasn’t about the men or the husbands but about Evelyn’s journey to become her true self. The way this book took us through her evolution was original and brought a few tears along the way. Must read!
2023-02-09

5. political biased and racist - I listened to an hour of the book and thought the story was okay except for the political biased and racist comments the author put in. The worst part is that the comments do not advance the plot at all and could have easily been left out. I am not interested in listening to this type of book anymore when there are so many better written books out there.
2022-12-22

6. Something with a twist! - Groundhogs day meets the Maze Runner but with murder. Definitely a book to keep you guessing and a few twists you really can’t see coming! A good balance of giving you the answer and leaving you hanging to fill in your own ideas, as any good fiction book should! This would be a great read for book club discussion
2022-11-14

7. WOW / - Ok, so when I found this book, I thought it would just be typical and I would just read to see some drama. Boy was I wrong. I am not a person who loves reading, but this book was fantastic. I am probably too young to read this book but it was so compelling that I couldn’t stop myself. My favorite book I have read to date! Finished in only days and even though I stayed up late it was all worth it in the end. No matter what your style is it is an amazing piece of art and you should give yourself the chance to read it.
2022-11-02

8. The husbands of Evelyn Hugo - Evelyn Hugo was a ruthless, spoiled, selfish person who used her money to get whatever she wanted. She would never have been a friend of mine and I had no respect for her character. However, the book was entertaining and kept me interested to see what she would unbelievably do next - I believe she had a mental disorder and totally manipulated all the people around her. She only loved herself!
2022-10-03

Release date: 2023-03-25 $5.99

Release date: 2023-03-07 $14.99

Release date: 2021-05-18 $1.99

Comments

1. Ehh - It had SOOOO much potential but it didn’t do it for me. I really dislike the narrating maybe if it was written from the characters point of view I might have liked this more. I’m not sure. I love the background of the story for sure but I just couldn’t get into it. Low key a little disappointing.
2022-11-04

2. I couldn’t finish… - Idk…I love CL books usually but I couldn’t even get through this. Jess just isn’t my kind of girl. River was hard to read but still intriguing but then Jess was so blah…made no effort, had a bland personality. Just not my vibe. Maybe I’ll try again later. Off to read some OG CL books!
2022-05-31

3. A Love Letter to Science. - Admittedly it has been a very long time since I have read a Christina Lauren book. Too long. Way too long. The Soulmate Equation is brilliant, poignant, funny, adorable - all the things you want in a C-LO book!! I adored this cast of characters and am glad that I finally read this book. Omigah. The epilogue!!!!!
2022-03-14

4. Cute - I liked this book. I read it in one day. The concept was original, but the technology / app detail set up was a bit lengthy / tedious. Fans of vintage C-Lo will instead wish to get to the good stuff sooner...the swoon, the lust, the general romance novel content....as opposed to C-Lo’s more recent women’s fiction writing style. I liked Juno and Fizzy...would love to read a Fizzy romance!
2021-05-31

5. Another one! - Just when I think Christina Lauren has already written the cutest romantic comedy they give us another! This easily became one of my top Rom-com books. They never fail to create relatable characters and a story that captivates me so much that I HAVE to finish in one sitting. Love love love!
2021-05-21

6. Fun Weekend Read! - I had fun reading The Soulmate Equation. I loved Jess and River with a little bit of push and pull. This story line is different to what I am use to reading and I could not get over it. I was engrossed in this story that I may have stayed in PJs all weekend to finish this book. Jess and River have an interesting start. I love the whole DNA match concept. This story had me laugh, made me wonder if Jess will find love, and then at the end I was a smiling book nerd. The Soulmate Equation is a new read that I definitely recommend!
2021-05-20

7. Loved the unique storyline! - I adored this for many reasons...I love single parent romances, I love grumpy heroes, and I love a fun best friend side character. Not to mention that the grandparents were pretty cool and June, the kid was just as cool. I pretty much devoured this book. I found it to be original, fun and romantic. The premise behind the genetic matchmaking is what made this story stand out for me. I haven't read anything like it and I thought it was well done. Add all the reasons I mentioned above and that's why I this book was a hit for me. I highly recommend it!
2021-05-18

Release date: 2009-06-23 $1.99

Comments

1. The Fixer Upper - First time reading this author, but definitely won’t be the last. This lady knows how to tell a story. Even though it was a nice, long one, I wasn’t ready for it to end. Loved all the characters, well not so much Dempsey’s father and his wife, but you can only choose your friends, not your relatives. Anyway, I believe anyone who loves a good story will enjoy this book.
2018-08-17

Release date: 2021-05-04 $11.99

Comments

1. Fun, sweet read, kind of improbable story - I really liked this book and was invested in what was happening. The relationships were sweet and interesting. There were some unanswered questions about what was happening that feel like plot holes if you think about them too hard, but if you just enjoy the book for what it is, it’s a good read!
2023-01-23

2. A fun read - This book was a fun entertaining novel I would say mostly about a step mother’s relationship with her step daughter as they try to navigate a complicated event. It’s emotional but not too gut wrenching that you have to pause and cry. I would suggest it to anyone who wants to have a moment to escape :)
2022-12-30

3. Boring - I finally finished this book & I can honestly say I did not like it. I was hooked in the beginning because of all the suspense but as the book goes on it gets really boring. So boring that I put it down for two days then came back & forced myself to finish it, hoping for a great ending that never happened. Not to mention the daughter Bailey is VERY unlikeable. Wouldn’t recommend.
2022-08-24

4. Thrilling! - Definitely a page turner, I enjoyed the story very much. I feel like Laura tried to be as location specific as she could but there were a few details that she neglected. The story itself seemed really simple in the beginning, but unfortunately lost me a few times towards the end. Overall, it’s a quick and easy read, wouldn’t be surprised if this turns into a movie/tv series!
2022-03-29

5. Not that good - I didn’t enjoy the book, found the moral of the story a bit stale and used by many authors before. Too many inconsistencies or mistakes. No legal bar in San Francisco is open at am, especially in a “boutique” hotel. No bar will serve you old fashioned in a martini glass. Labradors is the most friendly dog breed and make bad guard dogs. There is a middle seat on almost every plane. Monterey is not located on the peninsula, not even close. It’s not possible to get thousand dollars in cash on a minute notice. The main character goes to length to “hide” by using somebody else’s credit card, but then uses Uber as soon as she gets to Austin. And so on. I just get irritated when authors feed you lies like that or think we are stupid and won’t notice.
2022-03-04

6. Good Bones - Storyline was decent, but a bit sporadic. A good idea for a book and a nice final page but it didn’t strike me as much of a page turner. I wanted to know the answer to the obvious questions, but I only completed the book out of commitment to reading it all the way through once I started. Then again, I have never written a book. Props to Laura Dave.
2022-01-08

Release date: 2022-10-18 $15.99

Comments

1. What a gem of a story. - Loved this book so much! I grew up in rural Virginia and thankfully missed the drug world but know it’s there. This book is so much more than that. The lovely Community of people living off the land and supporting one another. The beauty of nature and space. The yearning and sadness and struggles of growing up and negotiating the world. Just beautiful.
2023-03-19

2. Sad but worthwhile - This story is difficult to get through because it delves into a life of poverty and all the challenges that come with poverty, drugs, hardship, family failure. But in Kingsolver fashion, it’s also a love story to the people and mountains of Appalachia. I am always left with beautiful natural scenes at the end of her books and this is no exception. You cannot help but love and root for Demon and pray for escape and happiness.
2023-03-15

3. Save your money - Did not like the abundant dependence on vulgarity to create characters and storyline. Way OVERDONE AND UNNECESSARY TO THE STORY LINE. Book lagged into unending nothingness. I was determined to finish book, but after hundreds of pages; I had to be nice to myself and do something I rarely do…..just stop. I had lost total interest in how it might end and what might happen to the characters next. The beginning had promise, but didn’t deliver.
2023-02-06

4. An excellent story. - Kingsolver doesn’t any punches in this novel set in Appalachia. The loss of coal mining jobs, the oxy epidemic in the region, foster care seen through the eyes of Damon (called Demon) I couldn’t stop reading it. In my opinion, this book is Kingsolver best work since ‘ThePoisonwood Bible’.
2023-01-11

5. Demon Copperhead - Could not finish this book when it became too oppressive. I read Shuggie Bain last year (/) despite the extreme sadness, but this narrative became repetitive. Childhood poverty and the failures of society to deal with it are on full display in Demon, but I just could not finish it.
2023-01-08

6. Kingsolver at her best - An amazing tapestry of captivating fiction and fact from modern day backwoods VA. I laughed out loud, cried, wanted to move to Lee County and hoped my daughters would never come close to such a place. This is a wonderfully sobering follow up to Beth Macy’s Dopesick. A book to be appreciated on so many levels…
2022-12-31

7. Love foe Lee County and Demon Copperhead - I stumbled on this book and was flabbergasted to find the setting in my hometown of Lee County, VA. My parents moved us to Nashville when I was a child but we make many trips a year to this beautiful, unappreciated heaven on earth the Author so poignantly described. Highway is worth the drive. She has also perfectly described the sad nature of the small, rural towns and the heartbreaking scenes of generations of our Appalachian ancestors. This book made me cry and swell with pride to be from such a remarkable heritage. Ms. Kingsolver truly made Demon Copperhead come to life.
2022-12-31

8. Stunning - One of the best novels I have read in many years, but not for the faint of heart or those not up for a painful ride. Alternately sad, devastating, dark, funny and ultimately, uplifting. A laser focus on pressing social issues and the resulting destruction of kids and families, told through an incredibly authentic narrative.
2022-12-16

9. Extraordinary read! - I loved the humor and forthrightness of young Demon. I missed the humor once he got tangled up even more in the web he could not escape. Kingsolver nailed the football culture of small town high school! I had such longing for Demon and Tommy in their recovery of all things living and resilient. They are champions. There is hope still out there. I only hope there is enough time for those hurting from life made way too hard.
2022-11-15

10. Extraordinary. - Authentic & beautifully written, Demon Copperhead is NOT your Grade summer reading requirement -it’s the literary version of a great song covered by an equally great artist (think: Johnny Cash covering NIN ‘Hurt’). This spin on the Dickens classic is at once fresh and new & hauntingly familiar. Ms. Kingsolver’s work proves that the societal issues of Victorian London are alive & well in Gen-X Appalachia. Next up: the author’s take on Great Expectations, set in Boston, circa (hey, a girl can hope, right?).
2022-11-10

11. Gave It A Try, and…. - This idea of using a Dickens novel and rewriting it based on its premise is not new, despite what Oprah or some reviewers might think. It was done far better years ago in the another large book - The Quincunx. It too was filled with glumness and nothing good ever happening. This book is overwhelmingly depressing about a sad topic we have heard much about already. Not sure what purpose it serves at this point other than to depress the reader. Hard pass, despite the excellent writing. The topic deserves more than just a depressing novel.
2022-10-28

Release date: 2023-05-23 $14.99

Release date: 2012-02-15 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Classics $2.99

Release date: 2017-07-25 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Historical $9.99

Comments

1. A Solid , even . Stars!! - I really enjoyed this well researched and well written story. A very, very sad and tragic account of child abuse at the hands of those meant to love and protect. A lot of animal cruelty and abuse as well but, sadly, accurately depicts the reality of the way things really were back in the early first half of the th century.
2022-11-14

Release date: 2022-10-04 $14.99

Comments

1. Enlightened - This book was informative where bees were concerned. A bonus! Was enlightening to learn how children, as well as adults, grapple with family and friends’ reactions to their lifestyle. It was heartbreaking and loving. I will not reveal the surprising twist in the book as other reviewers have. I just recommend this book highly. As a grandparent, I learned how to react, speak with (should the need arise) to my grandkids if/when they are confronted with this type of situation with themselves or their friends. As a Christian, I will not judge, I will simply listen, accept and love.
2023-03-19

2. So you think you know what trans youth need - First, this book (as you learn at the end from the authors) comes from both women wanting to speak their truth with a truly talented co-author. Their final, layered story will not only challenge whatever you think you know about other people’s choices and why they make them. The interwoven thread of bees lives and the use of their honey is fascinating! A must read!
2023-03-07

3. LOVE LOVE LOVE - I read the reviews for this book after I had already bought it. And as a Christian, I had concerns about the transgender aspect of the book. However, I decided to try to read it anyways. I was pleasantly surprised when I fell in love with the book and ALL of the characters. This book perfectly portrays how we should love others for WHO they are and not WHAT they are. Highly recommend to any and all people.
2023-03-01

4. Mad Honey - I learned so much about Transgender in this book! It was well researched and explained in a compassionate way! With grandchildren and great-grands it’s good information to have so you can help dispel ignorant opinions about people who are different! Thanks to Jodi Picoult and Jennifer Boylan for writing this! Elaine I Hampton NH
2023-02-19

5. What? (Spoiler alert) - I generally like Jodi Piccoult, and I did enjoy the deep dives into beekeeping and transgender issues, however, the resolution in this story is beyond incredulity. Totally out of left field to have the “best friend” of both main characters not only be the killer but to remain silent while her “best friend since I was six” gets arrested and tried for murder. Just No.
2023-02-18

6. Grabs your attention and won’t let go - I’m a fan of Jodi’s work and often grab her latest without reading the blurb, like I did with Mad Honey! It was super interesting and unputdownable from the fist sentence; and me having no knowledge of its subject matter made THE pivotal moment even more impactful! Really great characters and definitely a book club discussion must-read!
2023-02-04

7. Transgender Agenda - Mad Honey started out well, but was ruined by the woke, regressive, political agenda of transgenderism. It’s no surprise that “transgender” was not mentioned in the book summary as the authors and publisher knew it would not appeal to the authors’ primary audiences. The deceitful attempt to force and normalize this lifestyle on unsuspecting consumers is not only sickening, it’s evil. At least have the decency to give consumers the choice before they waste their hard earned money on a political agenda they don’t agree with or support.
2023-01-27

8. Mixed Review - If learning about a new subject (to me at least), I would give this book an A . Unfortunately I had the feeling that I was also reading a teenage romance novel. Since the main characters are teenagers, maybe that is to be expected. But I would have enjoyed learning more about Ava’s angst (Lily’s mother) learning that her son identified with being a girl at a young age and the decision to have surgery.
2023-01-11

9. Awful - If you want to read about a trans love affair go for it . But the timeline is confusing and ineffective, and the ending is predictable. As a side note, the authors clearly wanted to normalize being trans, but instead made a great case as to why it is dangerous medically to tamper with young adolescent hormones.
2022-12-22

10. Nope. - This book jumped all OVER the place. The timeline went from place to place to place all while writing from different characters perspectives. The “who dunnit” aspect was highly predictable and overall a huge let down. Most importantly, this book is really just a push to touch on every hot topic possible. While informative, it surely wasn’t believable or convincing.
2022-11-28

11. Pretty good, Love the perspective. See review - I’m going to break this down into a few parts. . Writing . Plot/Storyline . Character Development . Ending. TLDR: Good writing, good storyline, a little worldly with some convoluted stories. It took longer than needed, but good level. Somewhat good ending, some may say predictable. . Novelist is a generally good writer. This isn’t literary artwork, but it is well-written enough that it is easy to read. Some parts were longer than needed, and flipping to the past so frequently aided to frustration at times others, a good concept. . Plot/Storyline: If you have polarising views and abstract books you don’t enjoy, You won’t want this. This book required a certain level of empathy: TW Domestic violence, Transgender issues. The author did a good job creating an exciting story while educating the reader about women’s problems and intersectionality. . Character Development: Decent. The author wanted you to make assumptions through the book only to change and challenge them later. Interesting strategy. . Ending: Good story with good themes. Ergo the -star rating.
2022-11-22

12. A must read for your winter list! - Wow what a ride! This book was not at all what I expected & I was pleasantly surprised. I don’t want to give away too much in my review, as I feel going into it blind makes the thrill of the reading that much better. The interweaving of the beekeeping into the plot of the story was an exceptionally creative way to tie up everything in a nice bow, right down to the title. As stated above, I want to be vague, as that will make reading “Mad Honey” all the more sweeter for the reader. Make this a must read on your list this winter!
2022-11-11

13. Not great - Too predictable and too wordy. Had to “fast forward” several times because I just got bored. Also, FACT CHECK PLEASE! I know it’s a small thing but there was a mention of a kid getting a full ride as a hockey goalie at “UC-Boulder”. First, we refer to our school as CU-Boulder and second, we don’t have a hockey team!!!
2022-11-08

14. Disappointed - Very disappointed in this book. As a senior I am not interested in a trans love affair. I believe there should have been a content warning about trans subject matter. I wish I could get a refund to my account - I spent . out of my fixed income. I will not be buying anymore of her books…she has lost a fan.
2022-11-02

15. Great story but “plot twist” was obvious. - Chilling and progressive, this story is so well written. She covers the inner conflict of an abused mother so well, and really draws you in with her timeline. Somehow she manages to tie in amazing bee keeping and relate it to murder. The only reason it didn’t get a star rating is because it was obvious to me who was at fault the entire time…. And the ending consequences seemed unrealistic. However, worth reading every page.
2022-10-20

16. Loved!!!!! - My Review: Loved!!!!! It definitely lived up to all the hype. It was hands down my top read of the year. Maybe even ever!!!!! I don’t know how any author is going to top this one. So, I want to start off by saying that Jodi Picoult is one of my favorite writers of all time. I just love her books so much. I have read many of her books and they all have been such a joy to read. Whenever I pick up one of her books I get so lost in them. I lose all track of my surroundings and time. Like a tornado could hit and I wouldn’t even notice. I also have to make sure I have everything done beforehand otherwise nothing will get done until I’m finished with the book. Let’s talk about this book for a minute. What a brilliant story. The characters were all phenomenal and they blended so well together to make this a fantastic and beautiful read. Jodi Picoult took a hard topic and wrote it with such a gentle touch. I was in tears and very emotional during most of this book. Tissues were by my side during most of this read. This book was part mystery, part love story, and part learning who you are all wrapped up in one. This book had it all. Once again Jodi Picoult writes a gripping and compelling read that I would totally recommend. In conclusion, the plot, the characters and all the twists in this book made this book an enjoyable read. I would definitely recommend it and happily give it Hearts
2022-10-17

17. Mad Honey - This is a very thought provoking book. Without giving anything away it opened my eyes to the journey many people face regarding their true self. However, the ending felt very unjust and I felt angry about the final lack of accountability for one character. She destroyed so many lives and basically faced no consequences while the lives of others were permanently changed in a heartbreaking and permanent manner.
2022-10-15

18. Sign of the times - This book is about Olivia, who has divorced Asher's father due to domestic violence. Olivia is worried that Asher could have inherited his father's tendencies. This book is about Asher who falls in love with Lily, who is found dead from a traumatic fall. This book is about Lily and her mother, Ava. Ava, who only wants her child to have a meaningful life and relocates the both of them to get away from Lily's father. This book is about a murder trial with Asher facing a lifetime in prison and the secret that Lily and her mother have kept from the community. This book dropped me in my tracks, completely surprised me and I barely caught my jaw before it hit the floor. Using a mix of past and present, the events that lead up to Lily's death is parceled out to the reader, resulting in a very suspenseful read. Not only is it suspenseful but it is also a book that educates. Once again, the author tackles a volatile issue that is prominent in the United States today. I give kudos to the authors for opening my eyes and "hearing" what needs to be said in regards to our world today. I have written an honest review in exchange for the DARC I received from Penguin Random House and NetGalley.
2022-10-10

Release date: 2023-03-21 $14.99

Release date: 2022-07-05 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Literary $13.99

Comments

1. What Goes Unsaid - Gabrielle Zevin left no stone unturned, bandage in-place, or social trope in her inventory while delivering an electric novel. Books like this are as complete a dialogue about life and all of its pain, joy, and the mess in-between. Like a reflection in an indigo lake, her characters fascination with being gamers, mirrors why some of us are readers. Though we see events from many stages of life, it’s Zevin’s exploration of the uncertainty and anxiety of youth that serves as a driving theme in the story. Specifically, the almost violent point where the idealized perceptions of youth meet the compromising reality and judgements of the world. On a deeper level we see how the singular passion of youth occasionally manifests as creative genius. For many there is a treasure chest of topics to enjoy in the video gaming world she builds for us. Including the highs, lows, and intricacies of the gamer’s experience. I am particularly enthralled by Zevin’s leveraging video games as a larger representation of every fascinating and depressing thing about the real world. We are challenged to weigh the pros and cons between the two “realities” and how we face life in each. Zevin’s voice and characterizations are refreshing and hard to shake. Her style crafts the kind of story that puts the joy in reading. It’s the book you wish could write and our glad to have read. Her masterful use of the omnipotent perspective gives us characters with real depth and dynamic qualities. The themes blend perfectly together pulling us from one revelation to another. As Zevin clearly states this book is a love song in many respects. A love song to artists and makers as well as the creative process. For me it was a reminder that life is for living, here and now. That if we are present and fully engaged we will see the magnificence of being and, when the end comes, exude the gratefulness that it happened at all.
2023-03-21

2. What If? - The story was well-conceived, and shared with the reader many of the dimensions of the gaming, and the creative, experience. It did so honestly, and paralleled Fikry’s style of rich and complicated people intersecting and drifting apart. It was easy to locate oneself in the text. Those intersections where richly-imagined characters met were the primary focus of the writing, and threw sparks while they invited the sharing of paths. The novel blurred the boundaries between the lived and the imagined, and preferred neither. This was a tale worth telling.
2023-03-20

3. Meh - This felt like a saga to me - like, there’s no big rising action to a big payout in the end. It’s more little stories cobbled together over years and stays pretty flat. Maybe you’re into that sort of thing. It’s just not something I enjoy. Then, add to that, characters that aren’t really likeable and an oddly-rushed ending, and I was just glad it was over. I grew up in this time period and expected to love it because it was about video games, but I guess I was expecting something more like Ready Player One. Oh well.
2023-03-14

4. Great start, but died off - This book was interesting to start but for majority of it, it felt like I was just reading a timeline of a gaming company. Nothing felt significant or made me want to continue reading. The battle between Sadie and Sam just became annoying and I lost my interest in the characters…
2023-02-19

5. Surprisingly touching. - I can’t find words to describe how this book made me feel, but I’ll try. The writing is absolutely lovely. Poetic and haunting. The imperfectly flawed characters felt like friends. I will genuinely miss reading about them. I highlighted so many lines that spoke directly to me. I never would have thought a book about gaming could move me as much as this one did. I loved it.
2023-02-12

6. OverHyped - The toxic life of Sadie Green (Spoiler Alert) To me personally this book was over hyped. At several points in the the book I was like are we really going there. I mean it was she had a checklist she had while she was writing it. Examples: Toxic relationships, homophobia, racism, sexism, gun violence, and much more. Honestly a lot of it just through the book of track. She could have used these topics properly, but it just the writer was just as toxic as her characters. Some examples throughout it was: “She said that marriage was an antiquated institution that oppressed women. ” I saw this like three to four times throughout reading it. “So, like, all you have to do is own your own company?” “Right. Then the men have to do what you want,” Sadie said. “I’m the seventh Anna Lee in Equity.” “There are a million Anna Lees in this town,” “Even if there were “a million Anna Lees,” Then you even have an Instructor having a relationship with one of his students while being married to another women and child. Even after Sadie he was having relationships with many other students. I also found it funny how Sadie called Kojima out for being sexist, but plays Leisure Suit Larry. Leisure suit Larry is far worst in the sexist department than Metal Gear Solid just Google it. “I don’t want to play a game that’s a collection of some guy’s fetishes,” Oh but you do Sadie. And that is just a little bit of toxicity throughout the book. I definitely wouldn’t recommend this book to anyone. The main reason I even finished reading this book because of Sam. I knew he wasn’t going to get the girl at the end, but it was nice to see his character to the end. Also, she just throws a bunch of game titles throughout the book. I would say this is more from a programmer’s side of the gaming which I really did enjoy.
2023-01-15

7. Not good, not bad - I felt some of the relationships in the book were contrived and there was much character development as would be expected. I didn’t laugh, I didn’t cry. I felt tired and hopeful. By the last pages, I wanted it to end. When it did end, I was a little disappointed with the ending.
2023-01-06

8. If you grew up a gamer… - This is the perfect book for the gamer who finds themselves at the beach. Listen to the waves, let the nostalgia of a classic video game wash over you while the story of a lifelong friendship unfolds. There was good character development early on, and I enjoy the story the author was trying to tell. There is a side of me which feels that the story is somewhat incomplete and there are chapters which are glossed over, but then again, maybe its by design. How often have you filled in the backstory for a video game character in the absence of the full story being given to you?
2022-09-17

9. Unexpectedly a new favorite - “What is a game? It’s tomorrow, tomorrow, and tomorrow. It’s the possibility of infinite rebirth, infinite redemption. The idea that if you keep playing, you can win. No loss is permanent, because nothing is permanent, ever.” While reading a good bulk of this book, I thought I would end up giving it stars. It’s been different to what I’m used to. The story is there, but I thought it could be slow at times, sometimes a little over descriptive. I started this book a week ago. Tonight, about % through, I could not put it down, and I would read in to the early hours. I used to have an old habit of needing to finish a book as soon as I picked it up, and I’ve only done that maybe once or twice this year. I had to keep reading this book. It was all necessary to take the story where it needed to go. NPC broke me in such a beautiful, heartbreaking way. And I couldn’t leave it there, so I stayed up to AM to finish this incredible book. The last page bringing tears to my eyes. Bittersweet tears. This is quite possibly now one of my favorite books. “Why wouldn’t you tell someone you loved them? Once you loved someone, you repeated it until they were tired of hearing it. You said it until it ceased to have meaning. Why not? Of course, you goddamn did.”
2022-08-05

10. Don’t have to know about gaming but - You don’t have to know about computers or gaming, but it’s a lot of the book. The characters build their lives around gaming as their careers, so if that’s annoying then don’t read it. It didn’t bother me that much. I didn’t like the characters very much though. Solid stars. No more and no less.
2022-07-26

Release date: 2022-05-03 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Literary $14.99

Comments

1. Heartwarming - I genuinely enjoyed this book. The author did a great job intertwining what seemed to be two completely different storylines and what came together was nothing short of compelling. I enjoyed reading the evolution of each character and never once did I imagine someone could give so much charm to an octopus and yet I was very much enamored by the sweet creature. It’s a great read, especially if you’re looking for something light and sweet.
2023-03-14

2. Delightful - I read this book in two days. It’s charming and the perspective of the Octopus is welcome and well executed in the context of the story. The story has clever quirks as it unfolds and just enough unknowns to compel the reader to forge ahead. The characters a vividly explained and oh so likable. I am excited to read future books by this author!
2023-01-24

3. Just read it. I can’t think of a way this story would not bring pleasure. - My wife recommended that I read this book. I started times before it grabbed me. I did not think I could read a book with an Octopus as a character. Once I chilled out and let the writing take me, I was amidst a great story with wonderful characters, living near the sea. I loved it all and did not want it to end. Cheers to wonderful writing and the ride it can offer.
2023-01-17

4. Love, love, love - From the opening words, I knew this would end up capturing me. I was enchanted by Marcellus’ narration and loved how the author weaved his story with Tova’s. Honestly, it is now one of favorites that I will come back to and read again. I love seeing people in different ages and stages of their life connect to tell such a lovely story.
2023-01-06

5. A balm to the soul - This book is beautifully written and profoundly moving. There is so much about life right now that feels bleak and overwhelming. To say this unique story of grief, forgiveness, acceptance and growth was cathartic would be putting it mildly. Whatever type of book you’re looking for next, this is it. Bravo, Shelby, you have a remarkable gift and I thank you for sharing it.
2022-07-13

6. Wonderful read - This was such a lovely novel to read!! I loved Marcellus’ wit and snark. He was perfect. The end of this novel made me cry happy tears and I truly enjoyed every second of reading this book. My only wish is that I had taken my time reading it! It was just so great that I couldn’t stop reading!!
2022-06-06

Release date: 2023-02-21 $14.99

Comments

1. Couldn’t put it down - Very well-written, gripping, and thoughtful reflection on so many issues in today’s world—wrongful incarceration, the endless murders of young women and the failure to prosecute them properly, the pros and cons of true crime podcasting and amateur sleuthing, cancel culture. Highly recommended, I finished it in three days. Couldn’t put it down (even at the gym :-)
2023-03-12

2. Relentlessly grim tale of obsession - Makkai writes well, with a strong sense of place, but by midway through, the unreliable narrator’s dogged pursuit of vengeance against a teacher who she believed had murdered a classmate becomes more unhinged than compelling. The novel would be improved by cutting at least pages.
2023-03-06

3. An engaging read - A bit of a slow start but then I was fully engaged. It has a thriller genre quality to it but operates outside that genre’s trappings. It’s very different in tone and style from The Great Believers but not quite of the same quality. Very glad I read an electronic version — made it much easier to keep track of all of the classmates.
2023-03-05

Release date: 2022-06-14 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Historical $13.99

Comments

1. Amazing book, one of the best I have read - I loved this book, more than I can express. Not just her equestrian history during the Antebellum, but her depiction of racism in the present tense was incisive and important. I am surprised that she did not make mention of how she came about describing what happened to Theo. What inspired her to write it.
2023-01-10

2. Refreshing, enlightening, enthralling. - Strong historical fiction yet very captivating. Reads like a friend telling us a great story that is filled with mystery and excitement. It also weaves in the realities of racism in the mid to late ’s and shows us how this racism is still happening today. Great animal characters that give love and loyalty unconditionally.
2022-10-29

3. Wish it stayed focused on Lexington - The Lexington storyline was amazing, I wish that was the focus of the book in its entirety. Instead the author piled on every current issue of our era: racism, sexism, global warming, police brutality, homosexuality. Then she finished the book up with starting of covid. I am excited to learn more of Lexington so for that I’m thankful. While I am an avid horse lover and have many friends & family that are, I’d recommend skipping and just reading about Lexington.
2022-08-09

4. Delightful - Every bit as exciting as Seabiscuit and then some. I live in Lexington and see this horse just about every day. He is on a sign and he is blue. I knew little about him until reading Horse. The discovery,education and enlightenment I received from this book makes that blue horse come alive.
2022-07-03

Release date: 2015-02-03 $11.99

Comments

1. Thank you - A view of WWII through the eyes of women. So much of it brought back memories of the stories my father told my siblings and me. He hated trudging through his time in the war, but was determined that the atrocities were never forgot. Thank you, Kristin, for making sure that, between the lines of a wonderful, touching story, the ugliness of war will not be forgotten.
2023-03-19

2. A must read captivating story - This book and author will quickly become your favorite! There are many books that take place during this time period but none that I feel capture it as accurately as Hannah has done! This is one of those can’t put down books that you beg to have a movie made from it. The way the characters are brought to life is truly beautiful.
2022-12-28

3. Phenomenal - This is the best book I have ever read. Period. I’ll start off by saying I read a lot of thrillers. A lot. So this isn’t something I would have probably picked out on my own but thank you to my book club girls for choosing this one. And let’s just say I am now the proud owner of every novel by Kristin Hannah. And on another side note — Mind you I am not a cryer, I didn’t even cry at my own wedding—- which I am still madly in love with my darling husband —I digress. This book had me WAILING. I mean ugly sobbing making the saddest noises in bed -trying to catch my breath crying. Thank god I was home alone bc I was a spectacle. I never knew a novel could make me feel on this level. I was captured. By everything. By the writing style itself. By the characters. By the ups and downs and the tenacity shown through everyone trying to make a difference in such different ways. I love this book. Everything about it. Thank you Kristin.
2022-12-19

4. Takes a bit to get into it. But well rounded, to what this horror filled time must have been like - I’m glad I read it. It’s definitely heartbreaking, but it would be fairly odd to read a book during WWII and it not be. Glimpsing into the sights, sounds, smells, pain, horror and so long that the mass of humans had to endure is astounding. The author did a great job, helping you get a picture of what it would have been like to fight for what’s right, behind the scenes and the risk that took. The characters were relatable and still so beyond what any of us could only pray we, each, had the courage to be. It’s odd that something so devastating can simultaneously been endearing and moving.
2022-05-04

5. Thought evoking - This book was difficult to read at times. It is tragic to hear stories of what people endured during these times and to think about how cruel it all was, what people are capable of. The love and hope and strength of the characters through it all is inspiring. I am holding my boys extra tight and appreciating life more since reading this
2022-02-25

6. If you have a sister, must read - Overall, I loved this book. I pictured my and my sister’s relationship throughout the whole thing and it left me in tears at the end; streaming down the face tears. Like some mentioned, the characters did get annoying and you wanted them to grow up no have necessary conversations earlier, but it only added to the emphatic ended.
2022-02-17

7. Beauty in a time of nightmares - This book brought to life a war that I’d read about in history books. Neighbors and friends ripped from their homes and individuals dangerously risking their lives to save the ones they could save. I cried multiple times at the unfair toil of war and the unbreakable bond of sisters and friends and lovers.
2022-01-02

8. Brilliantly written - I never knew how deeply the nazis impacted non-Jews in France. I learned something new about history through this book. The strong female characters were quite inspiring. It was also a great reminder of how hard life really could be. We think and were hard, but it pales in comparison of what others have suffered through. Highly recommend.
2021-12-30

Release date: 2023-02-07 $14.99

Comments

1. Someone Else’s Shoes - I get really tired of reading books about silly women making silly decisions because of silly men, for silly reasons. Only one woman in this book was anyone I enjoyed reading about, the rest were utterly vacuous, annoyingly dependent, weak willed, and eventually just too boring to want to find out what happens to them in the end.
2023-02-16

Release date: 2016-06-07 $12.99

Comments

1. Absolutely a masterpiece - It was such a fantastic book. I was constantly guessing what Blair was going to do and who she was going to pick. It showed a very realistic meaning of true love and how sometimes you just grow apart and change and how that’s ok. It shows how you can love more than one person and how that can change the course of your life forever. I don’t give books / very often but this one was well deserved. Reid’s writing is so detailed it makes you feel as if your living the story yourself and immerses you into the world of the characters and feel what they feel especially the heartbreak that leads to healing and finally peace. million percent recommend!
2023-03-22

2. bittersweet, lovely quick read! - a quick paced novel about navigating the roller coaster of love found within one’s life. stunningly insightful in moments of digestible language, taylor jenkins reid gives us a beautiful story that i think anyone can take something from. a storyteller at heart, reid portrays the human concept of growth in life and in love in a beautiful way, while toeing the line between heartbreaking and heartwarming. truly delightful read.
2022-12-28

3. Read this in days! - This is the fourth book I’ve read by Taylor Jenkins Reid. Although my favorite is still Daisy Jones and the Six, I think this one is now my second favorite. I read this book in two days! I couldn’t put it down! I had to find out who she was going to pick! Jesse or Sam? Is there such a thing as two true loves, or can there truly only be one?
2022-12-22

4. I don’t even know where to begin.. - All I can say is that this book was amazing. Just by reading the first sentence of the book. I knew this was gonna be an emotional ride and it totally was, but this was a roller coaster that I didn’t regret going on. This book is like a blessing and a curse. It like stepping into a nightmare, but realizing that ur safe once u open ur eyes. Idk I sound stupid, but this WAS AND IS THE BOMB.
2022-11-20

5. Amazing - Never have I ever read a book in a day....until this one. I realized how much time was passing & kept thinking “okay I’ll stop after this chapter.” but I physically couldn’t. I just kept turning pages, next thing I know it’s hours later & I’m finished with the book. Absolutely amazing read!
2019-01-05

Release date: 2017-11-14 $1.99

Release date: 2012-02-15 $2.99

Release date: 2011-08-30 $1.99

Comments

1. I should have listened - People said the ending sucked. It couldn’t be that bad. I’m going to do the unthinkable: when the year old protagonist, who was at the start, lands in Manhattan assuming the identity of a dead shipmate from a British merchant ship torpedoed by the Germans, he is arrested, read his Miranda rights (), and charged with first degree murder. End of book. Period No sequel offered. Nothing. But. Read it if you want...
2018-10-25

2. Only time will tell - Worst ending I've seen - totally unbelievable ending . Villian disappeared; kills off another with a heart attack; and main character gets into very unbelievable "semi-plot, while rest of characters become bunch of loose ends. Ending following the "non-wedding" ruined the book for me and made it a waste of time.
2016-10-09

3. Enjoyable... - Until the end, I enjoyed this story. Having spent many hours on ships, the rescue did not ring true. Then, the grand finale when "Tom" was read his Miranda Rights... The Miranda Rights did not come into law until , twenty years after the character's arrest in the book. Although a fictional story, these small details detracted a lot from the story for me, sad to say.
2016-03-21

4. Amazing Read! - This book is so well written and it embodies everything I love about stories and reading. It has an excellent storyline and plot with amazing characters. It is suspenseful which kept me reading well into hours I should have been sleep. I don't regret one wink of sleep I missed due to reading it. As a lover of drama, suspense, comedy, interesting characters and intelligent writing this is perfect. I loved that it was set in Europe. I learned a lot while investigating the jargon used. After I read this and learned it was part of I knew I would be reading each book. I just finished Sins of a Father (book -which did not disappoint) and will beginning Best Kept Secret after I post a review about Sins of a Father (another stars).
2016-02-18

5. Dead End (?) - I read the first of this Harry Clifton series more because I lived in Bristol for a while. It took me a while to realise that the author had a number of characters running almost in parallel. At first, I found this annoying, since if I put the book down for a couple of hours, I had to recall which character I was "living". While the linkage between them became clearer as the book proceeded, at the end "Harry's" future looks very uncertain. The book leaves many questions unanswered in this between-the-World-wars, drama, and at times the character development is at best convoluted, and at worst, downright confusing. I will buy the next in the series, "The Sins of the Father", and hope this might bring this book's characters more to life.
2014-09-16

6. Horrible Ending - Read "Sons of Fortune" and loved it. It had a most satisfying ending so I decided to try this one. It read so well that I thought I had a new author to read. I enjoyed it immensely until I reached the ending. It was almost as of he lost his creativity and didn't know what to do. It was a most dissatisfying ending and left a bad taste in my mouth. I won't read another of his books.
2014-01-31

7. Another heroic success for Archer! - Very much enjoyed this novel, read as a precursor to Sins of the Fathers, due out tomorrow. As with all literary things Archer, compelling plot, well developed characters that you are either sympathetic to, or despise. Powerful story that at times has you gasping as you see the character unwittingly headed over the cliff, or the villian hiding behind thevpillar, proverbial dagger unsheathed ...ready to purchase the next volume ! Cordially, Mike Waschull
2012-05-06

8. Time will tell - At first I enjoyed the writing as it seemed to provide man authentic description if the period and the characters were interesting. However the plot development seemed a little strained as the book progressed. When I noticed a sequel was planned I realized why the ending was created but I felt manipulated and unsatisfied . I also thought Harry, the main character, acted out of character in his response to the last tragedy he faced.
2011-09-24

Release date: 1992-04-30 $1.99

Comments

1. Heartbreakingly Good - I loved this book in all it’s innocence, pain and violence. It’s not a story untold but it is so well written it’s worth reading. This is not a happy story but the main character is resilient and brave, each emotion easily relatable. The author truly took care to make each character feel real, so much so I really felt I was slowly growing up with the characters as they navigated the hardships of life.
2023-03-23

2. Engagingly real - I saw the movie years ago and the saw the book and had to read it! The characters are so real you can almost imagine "Bone" growing up before your eyes. Not for the weak of heart as it has some tough scenes played out but with the writers skill of story telling it is just amazing to read
2012-07-29

3. You won't want to put it down. - I had to read this book for my first college English class and it was amazing. You get so in tune with all the characters and the ones you love in the beginning might be the same ones you hate in the end. When you find yourself wishing you could read faster just so you know what happens next is when you realize that this book is a great read.
2010-06-21

Release date: 2022-09-15 $0.99

Release date: 2013-02-26 $13.99

Comments

1. Great blending - Multiple stories in one. The grandmother's, the story the grandmother writes, Sage's, Leo's, and the two brothers'. different voices and perspectives, completely different stories all blended so carefully and masterfully to make different genres: Horror/Fantasy, Historical and Modern Romantic Mystery. Page turning, engrossing and thought provoking. Absolutely loved it.
2017-05-24

2. One of the best books I have ever read - This book is the best book I have ever read on the holocaust. The way Jodi Picoult weaves the characters into the story and how they all become intertwined is absolutely amazing. You can't help but feel what Sage, the main character is going through. I kept asking myself, what would I do if I was Sage. I still don't have an answer.
2015-09-25

3. Brilliant and moving! - When they say a picture is worth words I declare this book to be worth pictures. This story is painted vividly and I could visualize the characters well enough to feel as if they are sitting in the room next to me, I must say that this story is significantly better than any realistic-fiction books I have read. It is written so beautifully that you can feel the hunger, smell the pastries, touch the fear. I highly recommend this book and commend Picoult for a wonderful read.
2014-11-05

4. Riveting! - I've never read a Jodi Picoult novel as fast as I read this one - I devoured it. Very well written with a tapestry of intertwining characters and plot twists - the last one was a total and perfect surprise. Having heard and spoken with a Holocaust survivor, I had her pictured as I read, which made it all the more real to me. This is a sensitive and thought-provoking story of one of the most horrid, cruel times in the last hundred years.
2014-08-28

5. Flat and Stale - I looked forward to reading this book as I have read many books surrounding the Jewish Holocaust (due to my family’s history) and there are so many well-written books on this topic. This book is probably the worst I have read in this genre. I wish I had not wasted my money (another benefit if I had gone to the library and checked the book out instead). First: The main character (Sage - which is ironic and would have been amusing had this book been a comedy) isn’t even likable. Her “woe is me” attitude is unbelievable given the context this book deals with the Holocaust. Second: The book is slow. Third: The friendship between Sage and Joseff doesn’t feel natural, nor believable due to the lack of substance. Fourth: The vision of Jesus in the bread loaf? Really, that was just plain silly. Lastly, the only good part of the book is Minka’s story and there is nothing new or fresh. It’s not written with feeling in my opinion. The book is just flat. This is the nd book of Picoult's that I've tried to read and I guess it boils down to the fact that I don't like her writing style so it’s time to move on. I seriously don't know how this book got so many -star ratings.
2014-06-05

6. Just ok! - I am a huge fan of Jodi Picoult's but this book and the Lone Wolf have both been hard for me to get into the storyline. The Lone Wolf I trudged thru and finally ended her. This , The Storyteller ended up being good but it took so long to get to the meat of the story that I almost gave up! It ended up being a beautiful story.
2013-11-20

7. WOW! - This novel captivated my attention from the beginning. Picoult had me laughing, crying and flipping the pages wondering what was going to happen next. She did a fascinating job describing the different angles of the human mind and conjuring the doppelgängers in all of us. possibly one of the best books i have ever read!
2013-11-15

8. The Storyteller by Jodi Piccoult - This book was an amazingly realistic portrayal of one woman's experience in the Holocaust, as told by her granddaughter. As a child of Holocaust survivors myself, I could relate and connect to this book so much because it made me feel as if I was in the Lodz ghetto and experiencing the daily terror of Auschwitz when children were senselessly killed and innocent men and women were brutalized. I loved the way the author Jodi Piccoult interleaved the contrasting German Nazi's perspective on becoming an SS Officer with the perspective of a Holocaust survivor. Though this book is fiction, it is based on truth and is a very vivid portrayal of a hellish time in history, and yet it touches the human element so sensitively. It also raises questions of morality, euthanasia, revenge, and survival. Love, friendship, trust and loyalty are recurring motifs throughout this novel. The ironic twists and turns also make this book so enjoyable. This is one of Jodi Piccoult's best books, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to learn more about the Holocaust and it's impact on our world today.
2013-09-16

9. The best! - The best book I've read. It is thrilling, traumatizing and a page turner for sure! I started it on a hour plane ride and read continuously for hours. You would love it although I was sad reading about the torture at the camps. It reads like a history documentary but with strength and determination of a woman.
2013-08-03

10. Great book - It was hard to get into this book at first, but I'm glad I stayed with it because it eventually grips you. It's so difficult to read about the atrocities of the Holocaust, but this book tells both sides of the story. The characters are well developed and unique...and the ending had an unexpected twist.
2013-06-12

11. Fascinating read - I picked up The Storyteller and couldn't put it down. It is a fascinating read with all kinds of twists and turns. I cried many a time while reading this book. There were parts that were extremely hard to read without crying. The story within the story was amazing. I don't know how you wrote it because it is at times painful to read but I am so glad you did. Thank you Jodi.
2013-06-11

12. Too lengthy - I usually love Jodi Picoult books but this one left me a little disappointed. It is extremely well written and informative and really brings tears to your eyes when reading the atrocities that occurred during the Holocaust. At the same time- it is too drawn out and long and some of the story lines that come together at the end could have been omitted. All in all it is a good read but I skipped entire chapters- would have been better if a little shorter.
2013-05-15

13. Storyteller - I enjoyed the suspense of this story. So have only read two books by her, including this one and both have been good. I learned a great deal about the holocaust that I never knew and it was eye opening and I found myself wanting to learn more. I could have done without the fictional piece that was written by one of the characters, but in the end it came together.
2013-05-07

Release date: 2023-03-07 $14.99

Release date: 2002-10-22 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Literary $1.99

Comments

1. Boo!! - I LOVE The Secret History! It was one of my favorite books and I loved The Goldfinch too. Perhaps that is a hard standard to live up to. I had to make myself finish this and seriously couldn't believe the ending. Just meh. Bleh. Like...really??? How many hours do I not get back? I don't want to spoil it but there are just so many unanswered questions and unresolved issues...but worse, is by the time you've meandered through the denseness of the excessive nonessentials...it's hard to care any longer; you're just happy to be done.
2016-05-05

2. Disappointing! - Donna Tartt is my favorite author. I read The Goldfinch and The Secret History before I read The Little Friend and I was so disappointed in it. I got about a third of the way through when I was just so bored I couldn't read anymore. I picked it up again a few weeks later and draaaaaged through it to the end. It constantly FEELS like something is about to happen, but it never does. Tartt goes into so much detail about trivial things I figured it must MEAN something. But it never did. This book just wasn't ABOUT anything. And there's NO RESOLUTION. It dribbled on with no ending. The opposite is true of her other books. The Secret History is my all time favorite book. I recommend it over The Little Friend. I was left feeling very frustrated, like I had my wallet stolen after I just cashed my check.
2015-06-04

Release date: 2010-05-04 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Classics $1.99

Release date: 2020-07-14 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Family $2.99

Comments

1. Intriguing - A GOOD FAMILY is an intriguing story about secrets and loyalty. The characters are well-crafted, and their complicated interpersonal dynamics kept me turning the pages. I found the conclusion to be both surprising and satisfying, a pleasant end to an enjoyable tale. Disclosure: I received a free, uncorrected proof of this book.
2020-07-16

Release date: 2022-04-19 $9.99

Comments

1. Highly Recommended! - Loved reading the engaging and amazing story by the best selling author, Danielle Steel. Veronique Vincent, a well known and most sought after model, is in the explosion at the airport in Brussels with her mother. When the explosion goes off, it kills her mother, a man Veronique was dating, and leaves Veronique with half of her face disfigured, shrapnel fragments all over her body. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and riveting story of a young woman's struggle.
2022-04-24

2. Another great one from Danielle Steel - Beautiful is a wonderful book. The book introduces you to Veronique Vincent. A beautiful and much sought after top model at age twenty-two. Experienced and gorgeous to boot, all the top designers love working with her. Veronique has the world by the tail but in one day, she loses her mother and boyfriend and her gorgeous looks. How does Veronique rebuild her life? You must read the book to find out. As always, Danielle Steel is a masterful storyteller and the book will keep you engaged. Thank you to netgalley and randomhousepublishing for allowing me the opportunity to read the eARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
2022-04-24

3. It Was Ok - I’d like to start my review by saying, I’ve probably read most if not all Ms. Steel’s books. What always has me coming back to read her books is the storyline she creates for her readers. I can understand why some of her stories were made into movies. With that said, I’ve been disappointed with her writing style for the past five years or so. I always feel that the author is constantly repeating herself with the same context that was already mentioned in the story. Is this style used to fill the pages quickly? I hope to see longer stories written with less word filler.
2022-04-23

4. Beautiful - I miss the Danielle Steele author of old. I liked this book well enough but the characters were to surface, unlike the books she used to write. This book reminded me of her earlier work and I did appreciate it in that way. It seems to me that her work in the last years were short stories. While their is sadness here there is redemption, too. Linda Connally
2022-04-20

Release date: 2023-04-05 Genre:Fiction & Literature > Short Stories $0.99

Release date: 2020-09-29 $11.99

Comments

1. Thank you - This book has given me new perspective. I found it at a very synchronic time, and it has now contributed to my regaining my yearning for life. Experience is beautiful; there are so many things to do, so many things to be. One of the most important parts of life is to be loved, and to be someone who loves. I am that, and I have been lucky to have been that, and I will continue to do that. I recommend this book to anyone who is unsure. May you be sure within your unsureness. Xo
2023-03-17

2. Perspective - This book came into my life at precisely the right moment. In a time when I felt lost, directionless, and on the verge of giving up, this book provided the perfect remedy: perspective. I encourage anyone, at any point in their lives, to read this book. The story is more relatable and moving than any other I’ve seen before. It saved my life. And I hope it can also save yours.
2023-03-08

3. Beautiful Novel - The Midnight Library causes you to appreciate and value your life, show sympathy to those that have desired to take theirs, and to be mindful on how we treat one another. This is a beautiful book. One that encourages us to take the limits off of ourselves and simply live/enjoy our life.
2023-03-06

4. Uplifting and real life story - A great read for those of us who might think that things in our life should be better or different. Nora has this one life, with all of its troubles and also all of its possibilities. She learns by experiencing other lives that she might have lived, none of which were perfect! And in so doing, she learns how to really live, finally.
2023-02-19

5. Ham-fisted at best - The premise of this book has the potential to be interesting and allow for interesting ways to reexamine ones life, but the ultimate conclusion is completely unsatisfying because the terms of the game the author sets up are ridiculous for actually trying to examine what it means to live a happy life. Haig’s non-fiction self-help is more useful than its thinly veiled edition in fiction.
2023-01-28

6. absolutely perfect - So I wanted to read this book because I might’ve seen it somewhere, and I’m so glad that I did. This book was just beautiful to read. Everytime when I think of the one week holiday that I read this book on, the book comes to mind along with highlight’s of the trip. Adding on, the entire story ends up telling a very valuable life lesson which has changed the way I think in some situations, which is amazing. The Midnight Library is definitely in the favorite book list and it won’t leave. See, when you read this, and you finish it, you’ll feel dissatisfied in a way where you miss the book, and you wish you never read it in a week (hopefully it’s clear that that’s meant to be positive). Read the book, its phenomenal and dazzling, and worth every word, you’ll also fall in love with the storytelling/writing style, characters, and anything in between
2022-12-17

7. Great read! - I feel like this could be a movie. I really enjoyed the multiple lives Nora went through. Her journey from wanting to die, from realizing she wanted to live was an exceptional read. I hope that Nora, as a character finds true peace, and finds the life that she really wants to live. I would recommend this book to a friend.
2022-12-17

8. If you know, you know - Some people have complained that this book has a predictable ending and I do agree with that. However, I didn’t really see it coming until the last few chapters. That said, books aren’t meant to appease everyone and this is one of those books that you’ll either relate to massively because you’ve had the same thoughts or just not get. If you’ve ever wished you could change any of your regrets, this book will be relatable to you.
2022-12-13

9. Best Book - At first I wasn’t sure I was going to like this book however, as I read the author melding this book into “life” it gave me an appreciation for “life” we just never know the outcome of our choices but whatever they may be we have to appreciate being alive.. this book was a great reading
2022-10-26