Books most popular in the United States●Family

Release date: 2023-03-14 $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: 2023-03-07 $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 Genre:Fiction & Literature $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: 2023-03-07 Genre:Fiction & Literature $14.99

Release date: 2021-05-04 Genre:Fiction & Literature $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: 2023-03-21 Genre:Fiction & Literature $14.99

Release date: 2022-09-15 Genre:Fiction & Literature $0.99

Release date: 2011-08-30 Genre:Fiction & Literature $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: 2022-04-19 Genre:Fiction & Literature $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: 2020-07-14 $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: 2013-02-26 Genre:Fiction & Literature $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

Release date: 2023-03-07 $12.99

Comments

1. Another amazing read from Susan Mallery - I can’t remember the last time I read a book all in one sitting. I loved Finley and Jericho right from the start and was determined to dislike Sloane no matter what. As usual, Susan Mallery has a way of turning everything around and showing the good in people without it being completely unrealistic and sappy. She also tackles a difficult topic with tact and insight. Don’t hesitate to pick up a copy of The Sister Effect. You won’t be disappointed!
2023-03-19

2. Let’s Get Started on The Rest of Our Lives - I always love reading a Susan Mallery book and this is another great story but on the more serious side. I liked the characters Finley, Aubrey, Sloane, Molly, and Lester and then we have Jericho, Antonio, Gil, Lauren and Kelly, plus so many others. I really felt for Finley being put in a situation where she’s raising her sister’s daughter and is an amazing and supportive mom figure to Aubrey especially with the aftermath of what she’s still dealing with from Sloane in putting her in her current situation. Finley is finally getting her head above water and then it seems like here we go again.. She has a lot of feelings towards her family and when we find out what has gone on in the past with Sloane, her mother Molly and now her mom wants her grandfather Lester to move in, and Finley is just supposed to smile and agree knowing how they all treated her in the past. Then we have Jericho who Finley works with on his houses and he has a lot going on in his life himself between his ex-wife and his brother and his mother who just wants everyone to get a long and he isn’t on board with that at all. I loved that Finley and Jericho started a friendship and could honestly talk to each other with what was going on in their respective lives and get some advice from the other and maybe see the situation through a different perspective. Each finds out a lot more about their situations and Finley finds out that lies were told yet both Finley and Jericho are both told by family to just forgive the person and the situation, but there is a lot to forgive for both of these characters. When Sloane’s friend Ellis has an accident that is the last straw for her and her hard fought sobriety is on the line and this is when everything changes for Sloane, Finley and Jericho. Sloane definitely needed a wake up call and I wish it hadn’t happened the way it did but it put everyone in a much better place and it gave Finley the nudge that she needed to get on with her life. I appreciated the epilogue, and we were given a glimpse of where these characters are after the story ended and it was a great update. This story, in my opinion, deserves more than five stars.
2023-03-16

3. Amazing read! - Susan Mallery has grown so much over the years as an author. She is never afraid to tackle tough issues and she always does it with style and grace. This book is amazing! Yes there may be triggers for some but she writes Finley and Jerichos family drama from so many points of view. I could not put this book down!
2023-03-08

4. Another great read - Susan Mallery’s book The Sister Effect is for me another winner from one of my favorite authors. Although there were a few tough spots to read and could be triggering for someone who has had to deal with alcoholism. There is a HEA which I believe she did a wonderful job on how she wrapped up the story. I was left feeling very satisfied with the way it ended and I don’t always get that “ Oh yeah, that’s perfect” feeling when finishing a book. I seriously read this one in one day, it was hard to put down. This one is worth the read
2023-03-07

Release date: 2021-04-27 Genre:Fiction & Literature $11.99

Release date: 2021-09-14 Genre:Fiction & Literature $12.99

Comments

1. Eh - I love books about big families but this one was a chore to get through. Joy is a delightful character and the issues she’s is dealing with are very relatable. The rest of the characters, however, don’t bring a lot to the table. As others have mentioned, the introduction of COVID at the very end was unnecessary.
2022-12-03

2. No actual moral struggle but still cried aw - I’m so sick of the trend where a novel has no actual moral struggle this trope in contemporary literature is quite tired. Still entertaining none the less. May have cried a few times aw family stuff is always so sweet. Sometimes you need a novel just like this.
2022-10-03

3. Not my favorite - I enjoyed Big Little Lies which was written by this same author , so I was hopeful to like this book… but I was really disappointed. So much fluff and unnecessary details. At one point I really was interested in the outcome of the story… but When the mystery was finally solved, I was disappointed in the outcome and I don’t think involving the pandemic was necessary.
2022-02-01

4. Needs to be edited by half…. - Apples Never Fall by Liane Moriarty is a twisted who done it that is very odd. The first half of the book is all about character development, the next quarter of the book is the actual who done it part, and the last quarter of the book begins with telling you exactly what happened and then goes on to finish character development by updating you about each character in the book. Very odd in deed. I like who done its but this one I can’t honestly recommend as I just could not become a fan no matter how hard I tried. I wish her editor had edited half of the book away, as there was soooooo much fluff, not just fluff but unnecessary fluff. Sorry for the poor review but this is the nicest I could make it. Keep in my this is just my opinion, maybe you could like it. @LianeMoriarty LianeMoriarty ApplesNeverFall ApplesNeverFallByLianeMoriarty Bookstagram @BooksPaigeRead BooksPaigeRead
2022-01-31

5. Well written but the protagonist is hard to root for - I liked this author’s writing style, but some of the poor judgment calls the main character makes are disappointing and perhaps over-simplify things a little. That said, I really enjoyed some of the plot twists and genuinely did not see them coming.
2021-12-29

6. Moriarty Fan Disappointed - As an avid Moriarty fan, I couldn’t wait to devour her newest release. This is unlike anything else she’s written. / of the book is unnecessary fluff. Although she writes dialogue that is so raw and nuanced, there just is no plot around it. It drones on for long, nearly intolerable stretches that left me wondering- when is something going to “happen” to drive the plot forward? It was a struggle to finish, but I persevered because I have such a fondness for her work. I wouldn’t purchase this book again.
2021-12-15

7. Struggled! - This took me ages to get through, there just wasn’t enough of a plot to drag me in. I love this author, her character descriptions, and jumping from one narrative to another, but this one just wasn’t a hit for me. Not sure how I feel about bringing COVID into the story at the end also.
2021-11-30

8. Very engaging - I like Liane’s books as they are easy to slip,into the work when other things are going on around you. I was very engaged in this book and loved it from start to finish. I don’t know what book other reviewers read. I feel like they maybe didn’t really read this one. I liked how details were interwoven and thought that was creative. I liked how the end was a little different than her usual book. I really enjoyed all of it.
2021-11-26

9. Fun and funny and keep me guessing - I don’t usually enjoy back and forth times lines but this one had to be written that way and it was great. I feel I I knew all the characters mad liked them warts and all. The plot sucked me in but I did not guess where it would turn. A family with grown kids undertakes a deep dive of self reflection into their individual broken personalities during a murder investigation. Very enjoyable!
2021-10-23

10. page turner - compelling mystery wrapped up in a delicious story of family life with four children . A telling of cherished memories and the sometimes overwhelming urge to beat those siblings when it came to the parent’s love and attention. All of this overlayed by a story of a marriage both ordinary and extraordinary. A must read.
2021-10-22

11. Never ceases to entertain - I was introduced to Liane Moriarty through a book club I joined. I was hooked! Life stepped up it’s pace and I lost time for reading but have now recently retired and this was the first book I chose to get back to what I enjoy most - the telling of a good story. I could not have chosen a better book. She spins the web of the tale like no other and the quick twists and turns lead down a route that fascinates and entertains. Just as you think you’ve figured out the course the direction changes and you are off again trying to grasp how the story will wrap up. This book in particular was brilliant in that you start it thinking it’s about one character when in fact the focus is on a completely different character - one you never suspect. I’ve been and avid reader all of my life and pride myself in my ability to figure out the “who dun it” before the book reveals it. Ms. Moriarty has kept me guessing right up to the reveal in each of her tales - not only do I enjoy the telling of the story - I love the challenge! Anxiously awaiting her next work.
2021-10-11

Release date: 2018-06-19 Genre:Fiction & Literature $9.99

Comments

1. Fair story however too much irrelevant info - The story, plot was good and well thought out. However I felt there were too many characters implanted that had no bearing on the story and in fact superfluous. In other words the book could have been more captivating without the authors need to add more pages and characters irrelevant to the story or plot
2018-08-07

2. Delightful, unpredictable love story - Characters well developed and portrayed. I started this book thinking it was a beach story and was surprised that it was a “murder mystery.” The reader really has no idea as to the culprit as many characters have motive or are harboring huge secrets. Though the story really is contained within two days, you are taken back to earlier years a few times (often that can be confusing, but not in this story). I wish there was more as I was left with several “what happens nexts” and I wanted to follow a couple of characters. Thoroughly enjoyed the read, one of my favorites by this author.
2018-07-14

3. The Perfect Couple - I think it was an enjoyable book. Though I did not almost did not read. Your reference to the young man who died after jumping and breaking his neck. There was no need to put that in the book. It hits home- He grew up in Hingham MA. and many readers in Hingham and Scituate will recognize. I have read all your books but this maybe my last.
2018-07-14

4. He said. She said. Over and over again... - Disappointing, repetitive plot points. Written for a junior reader except for some sex scenes. Listening in Audible, the poor writing was obvious with line after line of dialogue ending in “he said and she said”. The beginning of the book was better written than the rest of the novel. The main character Celeste’s magical thinking made me think of a five year olds belief in Santa Claus”.
2018-07-07

5. Weak Tea - I read it, but can’t say I enjoyed it much. The characters were shallow and I couldn’t care for any of them. The law enforcement’s dialogue was silly, at best. Especially the final conversation between the Chief and the detective. Iike the author character who’s st book was rejected, I’m rejecting this one.
2018-07-07

Release date: 2018-02-06 Genre:Fiction & Literature $11.99

Comments

1. Can’t get enough! - I hate spoilers, so I will get to the point. This book will hook you. From the moment I started reading, I couldn’t put it down. The main character descriptions and internal struggle they face.. just makes you feel like you are really there with them. Another great book by Kristin Hannah.
2023-03-17

2. Being alone is is far more than a state of being - And in this story you see how the main characters relate to Alaska. A land of beauty and filled with contrast. For Ernt it stands for freedom yet it becomes his prison and he tries to t take his family prisoners too. For Cora , Alaska becomes her purpose as she learns skills and starts be accepted by fellow Alaskans. Then for Leni it becomes her home filled with challenges, beauty, love, and a way to escape all the real and imagined monsters that lurk around. The Great Alone is a story of family and how no matter how much you love someone we are basically all alone….
2023-03-09

3. Love Never Dies - Absolutely did it again KH!!! The emotional roller coaster you put me on once again was so worth the ending!! I couldn’t put this book down. Another favorite for sure. My husband has always said he wants us to move to Alaska to live off the land!! After reading this book I will stay in Texas!!
2022-09-02

4. Could not put it down - I read this book in a day. Such a great adventure story and also sad, but I just had to know how it would end, so I could not put it down. I highly recommend this book, and I’m onto another book by Kristen, Fire fly lane. I have loved and read, the nightingale, true colors and of course the great alone.
2022-06-01

5. Amazing - I truly could not put this book down. It is now my favorite book and belongs with the great classics. This book is one that will stay with me forever. I’ve never reread a book but I hope to reread this one in the future just to relive it again. I’ve never been so captivated by a book before. I read this on my iPhone but I will be buying a hard copy just to have. It’s THAT good.
2022-02-14

6. Difficult. - I bought this book after reading the Authors book, The Nightingale. I was really looking forward to her writing again. I read The nightingale in mere days. With The Great Alone I had to fight my way through. I wasn’t hooked from the start. I was well over half way finished with the book before it truly grabbed my attention. But I had spent the money- I was finishing the book. I am glad I did. I believe the second half of the book is a whole lot better than the first half. Looking forward to choosing another book by this Kristin Hannah.
2021-12-19

7. Heart Wrenching! - This is a most read! The emotions this book gave me tore me apart! I have never felt so angry, sad, happy, and distraught all in one book. On top of that I now want to visit Alaska! Great characters, such an amazing story! I can’t recommend it enough. You will binge read this book.
2021-10-23

8. This book will repeatedly take you apart & put you back together again ... - Literally my life: “For as long as I can remember, books have been my safe place.” It’s hard to not like a book that has that to say, or a fictional young adult with that sort of wisdom. Love and fear. The most destructive forces on earth. Fear had turned her inside out, love had made her stupid.” That quote is definitely befitting of this story. There’s no way I could find the words to do this reading experience justice so I’ll just say it packs real feels … all of them. Those of family love, friendship, loyalty, romantic love, complete and utter heartbreak and repeated satisfaction. This is one of those reads where the characters can be so frustrating … but I found their end results extremely satisfying. Very well played and I love how complete this tale is, it did not leave me wanting more. Would love to see this made into a movie or mini-series. stars. Note: I listened to the audiobook; -star performance.
2021-06-09

Release date: 2023-06-13 Genre:Fiction & Literature $5.99

Release date: 2023-03-21 Genre:Fiction & Literature $14.99

Release date: 2023-01-03 Genre:Fiction & Literature $14.99

Comments

1. Disappointing - It has been a long time since I have read a Danielle Steel novel, but I definitely don’t recall them being so poorly written. This book repeats the same characterizations so often that I questioned whether I was missing something. There is no character development, no plot depth and frankly, is the first book I can say, I wish I hadn’t bothered to read.
2023-01-23

2. It’s okay - The beginning of the book is very good. The story loses steam as you read on, with a lot of repetitive sentences. I felt like the last third was written very quickly without much thought or talent. I love Danielle Steel books, although they are getting shorter and shorter…..more like a longer “short story “.
2023-01-08

3. Engaging & Enthralling! - Loved reading the enthralling and engrossing story about a man, Charles, who falls asleep while driving home to one of his wife's lavish parties, drops off a cliff, plunges into the the water, and slowly climbs the cliff. Charles stumbles down the road, up to a cabin, meets a beautiful, giving woman, Aude, and wants to disappear from his life without a trace from his money hungry wife, a job he hates, and even his two adult children he loves. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and another must read story from the phenomenal author, Danielle Steel.
2023-01-08

4. Without A Trace - I loved the storyline. Another great read by Danielle Steele. The story kept me interested throughout, lots of suspense with a happy outcome. Because of the author’s creative writing and interesting storyline’s, I always purchase her next book. Unfortunately though, there is so much content being repeated over and over throughout the story. It was already mentioned numerous times during the chapters prior and again a few chapters later. That was never the case with her books from years ago. It’s like getting half the book for what I paid for.
2023-01-06

Release date: 2022-06-14 $12.99

Comments

1. A fabulous fabulous read you won’t want to put down! - It’s just a really nice book. Good plot with some interesting twists and turns.. a few you’ll guess but some are unexpected. It makes you feel good to read this book.. you’ll find yourself smiling and at other times perhaps shedding a tear.. but you’ll come to live t(e characters and the hotel.. a great read.. I literally didn’t want to put it down and finsshed from cover to cover in less than hours.. Enjoy!
2022-07-15

2. May be Hilderbrand’s best work yet! - Wow! Elin Hilderbrand strikes gold again with her newest Nantucket-based beach read! What a glorious escape from the rainy April weather! This is the first time I’ve been granted an ARC of an Elin Hilderbrand novel & I could not wait to start it. Thank you to Little, Brown & Company for this little surprise in my NetGalley account! “The Hotel Nantucket” features all the things-romance, mystery, supernatural circumstances, amazing characters & settings that will make you feel as if you’ve been transported to a vacation destination far away! Similar to her novel “Golden Girl,” Hilderbrand introduces a supernatural aspect into her latest novel. We meet Grace, who was a chambermaid at the hotel a century ago. She is now stuck haunting the hotel after dying in a fire there in . Her character allows us to see a glimpse into the rest of the characters’ lives as she flits about the hotel-a charming addition to the plot. I loved Lizbet, the hotel’s new general manager, who has also recently experienced a broken heart. She was so likable & easy to root for, as she navigated returning the hotel to its former glory while avoiding her ex. Then there was Kimber, with her two children & dog, who need a place to stay for the summer. We later find out she is a secret hotel blogger who is there to rate Nantucket’s new addition. Her storyline was woven so intricately into the book that I never suspected anything about her other than a potential stalker ex-husband. I was thrilled to find out Kimber’s identity & see her find happiness in the end. While these ladies were my favorites, I also loved reading about Chef Mario, Richie, Zeke, Ms. English, Alessandra, Edie & the entire staff of the Hotel Nantucket. There was so much to unwrap & so many plot lines woven so well together. I now hope for a sequel so we can find out how The Hotel Nantucket fairs in its second season under the ownership of Ms. English & Paul! I felt as if I was saying good bye to friends when I turned the final page, but Hilderbrand’s own “Blue Book” at the end was a welcome surprise! Add this to the top of your summer TBR list when it hits shelves in June!
2022-06-14

Release date: 2020-06-16 Genre:Fiction & Literature $12.99

Comments

1. Loved until the end - I love Ellin Hilderbrands work. Her books are engaging with well developed characters and just the right amount of details in the story development. This book has an interning use of key words used to set the timeline at the begins of each chapter. This treatment really resonated with me. It put me right into the time period. The relationships of characters took me on a roller coaster ride of emotions; happy, sad, passionate, devastated, lagging, and crying. This book was so easy to read I flew through it in a matter of days. I loved every page until the last. Although I absolutely loved the book — it was not my favorite ending.
2023-02-01

2. Having a political cake and eating it too - I liked the main characters, I liked the references to real people and places- at first. Then I felt a little pandered to as a white woman. When real-life events, places and people were particularly significant and controversial in a particular year, they were written out of history even though we were very much thinking and talking about them in our real lives. This is strange, given one of the main characters is a politician. Too bad.
2021-08-08

3. A Heartbreaking Story that pulls you in from the start - This feels like a Nicholas Sparks story but told well from a woman’s perspective. Elin Hildebrand does a beautiful job creating the characters on the backdrop of Nantucket. Her writing makes you feel like your watching the novel play out through a boat window. It’s sad and happy and much like what life is. It will make you cry if you’ve experienced some of these life events. Good quick read.
2021-04-13

4. One of My Favorites! - This review contains a spoiler I always love how Elin name-drops in her stories! She gives her readers wonderful recipes, top fashion designs, trendy restaurants, and beautiful vacation destinations worth researching. Summers excels here as well! As for the storyline, the ending caused big tears to well up and spill down my face. It is so sad....However, I am so thankful that Elin left Mallory’s “transition” up to the reader to imagine. She spared us by not using words to describe the physical pain, the gut-wrenching loss, the what-now. Once again, Elin, an awesome story. ricecho //
2021-03-01

5. Great book and definitely a page turner - This book made me want to be in Nantucket the whole time. I could practically smell the ocean while reading this book. I could hardly put the book down, I was so intrigued by Mal and her life. While I wished to see her end up with Jake, sometimes the endings we least expect make the best endings. A wonderful book with great detail and beautiful writing.
2021-01-07

6. Engrossing, a new take on an old theme - Full disclosure: I love the movie Same Time Next Year, so I might have been predisposed to love this book. I appreciated how the author integrated the parallels to the classic movie into her work to a degree. I also liked how she provided some pop-cultural context each year. Though admittedly, some characters are richer than others, the author gets you vested in their lives. One is reminded that people are complicated, sometimes surprising. Above all else, life takes some interesting and unexpected turns. This is a great beach chair read. But wear sunscreen because it’s hard to put down.
2020-08-25

7. Summers - Cooper is the best brother to have. Fray and Mallory should married and lived happily ever after. Leland was always jealous of Mallory, it just took so long for Mallory to figure it out. Jake wanted it all, he was weak, a successful wife and a once a year fun time, he could have left Ursula before it even started, he and Ursula had parted ways before Jake made the first trip to Nantucket. It’s fast easy to read but predictable.
2020-08-04

8. Not so good. - When a book doesn’t keep me interested, I tend to speed read and skip a lot. In this case, I don’t think I missed anything. The location backdrop was beautiful but the point of the book was boring and sad and worst of all, very predictable. I kept hoping that it would get better, but it didn’t and it ended so abruptly that I was left sort of frustrated. Love her books but not this one.
2020-08-02

9. Disappointing Ending - This is my first Elin Hilderbrand novel. I must admit that I devoured the book and loved it until the very last page. The suspense kept me reading until the very last sentence. I am disappointed in the ending of this story. To me, it felt like Ms. Hilderbrand simply walked away from the entire storyline and didn’t finish it. I have some of her earlier books. I hope the continuity of the storylines aren’t as jumbled and haphazardly written.
2020-07-23

Release date: 2023-06-13 Genre:Fiction & Literature $14.99

Release date: 2021-07-06 Genre:Fiction & Literature $9.99

Comments

1. Well written but… - This is a very well written book that drags us through a very disturbed series of relationships across years and years of misery. Every relationship described in this book whether between adults and adults or children and adults or children and children is very disturbed. Well, there are two exceptions but they are not central characters. I admit I couldn’t stop reading it but I didn’t like the people, well with the exception of Peter. I didn’t like the people. It’s a book full of mistakes and painful returns to mistakes and it just isn’t my kind of book.
2022-08-16

2. Trigger warning - Trigger warning: child sexual abuse. If the vulgar description of child abuse wasn’t bad enough to make you burn it the rest of the story is overly descriptive for no reason. I had to reread the first chapter because it was hard to keep focus/my attention. Overall worst book I’ve read
2021-10-29

3. Those Branch Off Convos - It’s definitely a page turner! That, l loved. First time reading a book by this author. A little over-descriptive for my taste, kind of like when you have a conversation and it branches off a crazy direction only to come back to the point. I found myself asking “wait, who’s this again?” often because of the back and fourths. The story line was -raw, in such a humane way. A good summer read.
2021-09-29

4. Vibrant and lyrical - This author has an amazing turn with words and the plot kept me hooked the whole time. The characters were intense, passionate, and vibrantly real. The human interest was compelling and moving. I loved it. Note: If you are triggered by any sort of sexual trauma this is not the book for you.
2021-09-16

5. ... - Oh man! I love hated this book. I was surprised that I could following along considering how jumpy the story line was for the majority of time. I liked that though. I had to re read the first few pages again to fully understand what she choose(in my opinion) It was really an interesting layout. I wouldnrecommend it!
2021-08-25

6. Well written - I really like how the author describes minutia of every day life. The characters came to life under her careful craft, and I enjoyed being out of glimpse into another way of life. I didn’t fully understand some of the main characters conflict or the depth of her love affair, but it didn’t stop me from enjoying the book I found love affair to be a little
2021-07-26

7. Great…and then, Not - If I was reading this book in the traditional manner, not online, it would be across the room on the floor after reading the last paragraph. I was hoping for a better ending. I enjoyed the beginning, but the author’s love of description became too much; the plot and characters became lost in minute detail. My opinion. Too many characters to care about without enough development of each of them. Too many things left unanswered. It felt as if the point of the book was to focus on creating a visual image for the reader of the surroundings; eventually I became bored and began skipping lines, looking for activity.
2021-07-26

8. Good story, bad ending. - Enjoyed the story and the lead character. Was really interested in her life and this is definitely a page turner. However the ending was horrible. I’m really not even sure what happened. The description of the book says she has to make a choice. The ending doesn’t make it clear what choice she made. Dissatisfied and disappointed.
2021-07-13

Release date: 2018-04-17 Genre:Fiction & Literature $12.99

Comments

1. Slow getting into - This book wasn’t like the typical books I’m used to reading. The kind that grab your attention from the jump. The first half of the book is spent telling everyone’s story, in a way. I actually almost stopped reading it but had heard so many good things, so I kept on. LISTEN. I am SO glad I did. Once I got to all the twist and turns (about halfway in), the slow first half actually made sense. I am so glad that I didn’t give up on this book. It was literally jaw dropping, as it hits you with the most twisted unexpected ending. Even once you think you’ve got it figured out. If you find yourself wondering if you should read it or if you’re debating on quitting the book because of how slow the book starts.. READ THE BOOK. You won’t regret it
2022-09-12

2. Build ups - I select books based off personal preference and reviews. This book had more reviews on how great it was vs not. And boy was I disappointed. Most of the time I was flipping through it to stop the bleeding. Everyone said predictable but I was morbidly dissatisfied with it all. Not sad about wasting money on a book, more sad I wasted time trying to finish this one.
2022-03-21

3. First book of - This is a great book to read! I wanted to start reading again in so I did some research and started with this one! I am so happy to say it is so good and keeps you on your toes! You think you have everything figured out until you don’t. Twist and turns throughout that make you want to keep reading! So good.
2022-01-30

4. Expect to be bored - The book started interesting and ended interesting. But throughout the middle, it was so boring I thought it was going nowhere. Has almost nothing to do with the missing girl other then the beginning and the end of the book. Twists were not as shocking as I’d expected. Not a book I’d recommend
2022-01-27

5. Twists and turns - I love this book. It was such easy reading. Not too descriptive not too floral. I have to keep forcing myself to stop reading it before I read it and it was finished and I would be upset. Some things I sort of figured out and other things were complete surprises. Great book. Want to read more of Lisa Jewell
2021-10-21

6. Wow. Just wow. - This is NOT my normal genre at all. I normally stick to young adult dystopian series...The Hunger Games, Divergent, Matched, the like. But I saw this recommended in a TikTok and I decided to try it because I haven’t read a good book in years. This book was such a breath of fresh air and it is written in such a way that leaves me feeling uneasy after having read it...still full of the plot lines and the mysteries and the characters and the emotion. Please, if haven’t yet, do yourself a favor and read this book!
2021-02-08

7. This book kept me on my tippy toes - If you love suspense this is definitely the book to read, actually this is the author to come to. I’ve read about of her books and this is my favorite so far. I couldn’t put the book down and when I had to I always thought about what was going to happen next in the book. Took many good twist and turns , never suspected what was going to happen and that’s what I like ! Keep me wondering so I can keep reading !
2021-01-12

8. Poop - This was the best book about a mushroom girl who fell in love with a tree bark boy, they had tree bark mushroom babies. It is also so conflicting because they come from two different natural tribes of the Elfen peoples. I highly recommend this for people who are looking for mature, personal, and poetic wrights. I also recommend this for people who believe robots and cats are stronger that nature’s forces and educational TV/ - The year old book reviewer (Shota Tontinkles)
2020-12-30

9. Interesting storyline that kept me intrigued! - I read this book in about a day (mostly because I’m in quarantine with limited WiFi access, so the next best thing is to read lol). I really enjoyed this book though. The author did a great job telling the story from different points of view. I didn’t quite expect the ending to be what it was, but it made sense in hindsight! I highly recommend this book!
2020-07-20

Release date: 2017-02-07 Genre:Fiction & Literature $11.99

Comments

1. [Korean] Just amazing - 코로나 격리 기간 정서적으로 나에게 가장 큰 영향을 주고 있는 이민진 작가. 그녀가 살아온 삶의 궤적과 파친코라는 책을 집필하게된 동기 및 과정을 알면 알 수록 그녀가 더 크게 느껴진다. 굴곡진 삶 속에서 전개되는 주인공들의 극적인 관계 및 갈등 그리고 내면세계 등이 책에서 더 깊고 자세하게 묘사되기 때문에, 그 감동이 TV 드라마와는 비교가 되지 않을 만큼 크다. (한가지 아쉬운 점이 책에서 한수의 비중이 캐릭터의 무게감이나 매력도에 비해 적다는 것인데, 이는 드라마 제작시에 다행히 고려가 된 것 같다.) 주인공 '선자'가 남편인 아이삭 목사의 무덤을 찾아가 자신의 삶을 반추하는 장면으로 소설은 마무리가 된다. 분명히 절제된 감정을 가진 강인한 그녀보다 대부분의 독자가 더 많은 눈물을 흘렸을 것이다. 대한민국 사람이라면 꼭 읽어야할 필독서라는 생각이 든다. 특히 나와 같은 재외국민들은 자신들이 살아온 삶의 역사에 대해 한번 잘 생각해보고 읽으면 더 큰 가치를 느낄 수 있을 것 같다.
2022-05-02

2. When no place is home. - This is a novel about a great many things but the strongest thread is about the search for a shared humanity and the crushing struggle to escape poverty. Min Jin Lee also covers what it means to be loved and have value in one place or another. There is also the wrestling match between the blissful ignorance of youthful optimism and where it collides with the seasoned incredulity and cynicism of experience. The competing perspectives at the same time highlight the common desires for love, belonging, and purpose, and pride. Pride is a looming presence; it kills and it leads to unnecessary suffering. Min Jin Lee’s storytelling techniques are amazing and give the book added depth and intrigue. The sprawling narrative takes you through generations of events and time in a way that you forget to notice the leaps forward and never want it to end. There are crushing moments and then truly beautiful ones that come together to create a whirling emotional roller coaster. I was reminded of “Grave of the Fireflies” in certain parts. My mouth gaping in shock at a sudden turn of events, in others tears brimming on the edge, and still with room left for laughter and joy elsewhere. This book is gripping and powerful in the same way that a Marquez novel is. The type of story that leaves a permanent imprint on you. Every page oozing with the perfect balance of drama and life. What makes it even more relevant is the issue of racial prejudice that mirrors America’s own zealous bigotry and something I was not fully aware of within the Asian community. There were moments were I thought you could swap Black for Korean and the story would have echoed experiences in Jim Crow or present day America. This book is as complete as they come and a new entry into my all time favorites.
2022-01-21

3. Mesmerizing, I couldn’t put it down - This is an amazing book! I can see why it was a National Book award finalist. The characters are so richly developed by the author that I found myself thinking about them even when I wasn’t reading the book. The pages flew by as each character’s story unfolded. My only regret is that I’m sorry to have finished it so quickly.
2021-01-05

4. Phenomenal! - Just from the opening line I could tell this book would be brilliant - “history has failed us, but no matter.” “Panchinko” is a novel filled with delicate insight into womanhood, racism, religion, and the meaning of home. Told primarily from the perspective of Sunja and her descendants, the changing narratives allows for each of these concepts to be explored in depth whilst maintaining a sense of gentleness. If you do not have a great deal of understanding of th century Korean and Japanese history/relations, this book provides and illustration of Korean experiences as immigrants facing hardship and prejudice. An excellent read to understand the ordeal that many Koreans experienced yet is often under examined and under appreciated.
2020-06-27

5. A good read - I found this book to be thought provoking and emotionally stirring. It touches on many social and personal issues that are relevant today, including racism, nationalism, identity, self-worth, and the ties of family. These issues are the water in which this multigenerational family swims. It was a great opportunity to get a glimpse into a culture I haven’t had a lot of opportunity to observe—enlightening. I learned a lot while being entertained and I enjoyed the writing style and characters immensely. I will definitely recommend Pachinko.
2020-05-26

6. Three quarters excellent, last quarter bad - I am fortunate to be married to a wonderful Korean woman with a story that mirrors Pachinko. So I understand the nature of the Korean mother and their devotion and sacrifice for their family. This book was on point for the first three fourths, then it fell apart. The focus on debauchery and gratuitous sex of a younger generation was both suspect and a turn off. I clearly understand that the descendants of the Pachinko generation were conflicted and confused, but those that I know went to Stanford, Harvard, Columbia and became doctors, lawyers and financial tycoons and did not become alcoholics, drugs users, or prostitutes as depicted in the final chapters of this book. Perhaps this was autobiographical on the part of the author, but it does not represent the younger Korean generation that I know. Because of this I struggled to finish the book and still have an uncomfortable feeling about the last parts, because I don’t believe it represents reality.
2019-09-05

7. Often underwhelming. - Though it invokes discussion and utilizes moving imagery, on multiple occasions while reading it I found myself just waiting for the end. Then once the end came, it was unsatisfying in tying up the multiple story plots that were brought into play. Overall, would not likely recommend to a friend.
2019-04-28

8. Best book I’ve ever read. - Amazing plot and characters. Intriguing story. I read a lot of books and this is now my favorite. Will definitely read again and will read more from this author. This book made me sad. I can honestly say that I love this book. Would recommend to everyone. Read it, you won’t regret it.
2019-02-01

9. A moving masterpiece - I genuinely did not think I would love this book so much. Initially I read this book because I was intrigued by the Korean and Japanese aspects of the book and wanted to get a good story out of it. We follow four generations of a Korean family and their struggles, losses, experiences, and family connections through the entire novel. I loved every minute of this book and love the characters even more. Min Jin Lee really gave us a heartfelt story about family and identity and endurance. Everything I read was so well thought out and I sympathized with everything that was thrown at me. The circumstances of the characters and their responses to them were really what shaped the story. Sacrifice and love play huge roles in the book, and that is ultimately what makes it so special.
2019-01-25

10. Introspective - Multi-generational tapestry of Korean immigrants in Japan that spoke directly at my heart as an immigrant myself. The struggles and triumphs of uncharted life are beautifully illustrated in times of war and hope. This novel is a living history book about family, love and despair that will keep you hooked from beginning to the end. Based on author’s extensive research and creativity, the novel comes to life with relatable characters and familiar surroundings that makes you wonder how the life is for these immigrants in the land of privacy and order called Japan.
2019-01-18

11. More than I could have ever expected - What an accomplishment. I am more educated about Korea and Japan than I ever was in school after reading this novel, but it didn’t feel like a history lesson. It felt raw and real and you see the fishing village, feel the starched shirts Sunja wore and my face even felt the flame of shame that is so ingrained in their cultures. I read some reviews that didn’t like the swift change of point of view, but that is what makes this book so amazing. Enjoy the story! I understand WWII and even issues I didn’t were issues in the s and s more than ever before through characters that expanded my perspective on history. Beautifully written!
2018-12-11

12. Excellent story - I enjoyed reading almost every minute of this story. Being in Japan while reading it somehow made the plot more meaningful. There were a few times that I was annoyed by the prose, and while that’s probably true of all books, for some reason (maybe grumpy old age) I took one star off for that. Even so, I highly recommend it!
2018-11-19

Release date: 2020-03-10 Genre:Fiction & Literature $12.99

Comments

1. Not what i thought was going to happen - Before buying the book and reading the description, in my mind I thought it was going to elaborate on her waking up in a different life - that, that was going to be what the book was about . But i never would have guessed how the actual story plays out & what happens.
2023-03-16

2. Bait and switch. Spoiler alert here: - Spoiler alert. This book is about someone dying a painful graphic death from cancer. Not cool. Readers should know in advance what they are choosing to read. Tragic death holds trauma. Do not surprise readers with that. Book description is not accurate. It’s a good book but I didn’t appreciate that.
2023-02-22

3. Quite literally one of the worst books ever - I won’t even waste my time writing a coherent review because this book was not. It was incredibly ridiculous…the ending was just…WHAT. I will give it to the author, the idea for this was amazing, it really does sound like a phenomenal story on the blip on the back of the book, but dear god if I could forget this book, I would.
2022-12-29

4. Unexpected emotional twist! - At first I was upset at the twist this story had but then fell in love with how emotional and sweet this ended up being. I started reading not knowing it was going to be such a sad story but I did smile in the end with the way things fell into place. Ending being about friendships truly made this so great. Her friendship with Bella was beautiful and Bella cared so much for her. I would a sequel and to know where and with who Dannie ends up. Dr. Shaw or maybe Aaron!?!
2022-12-27

5. Amazing, I have no words - When I fall for. Book, I fall for it hard. This is what happened here in less than hours I finished this book. I laughed, I cried, and I understood so much that I can’t believe it’s over. I’m so glad I read it and hope many more people read it and enjoy it as much as I did.
2022-08-10

6. Hmmm - Yet another story about the privileged and pathetic class. Oh dear let’s weep over a glass of barolo as we feast on the name dropping restaurant fare. Shall it be Paris or Morocco while we celebrate greed as a trait to aspire to. A clueless angst ridden story with shallow characters who have no idea what loss is that floods the lives of people on a daily basis. Perhaps the author may benefit by living in a country where the children make their home in garbage dumps or where families survive in toxic environments or constant wars. OMG tragedy, the wine glass is empty…give me a break E
2022-06-16

7. Gave me tears and joy - It’s an amazing book with the lovely New York City in it. I learned so much from these two amazing best friends. I cried a lot but also laughed and made me realized of so many things we don’t think about because of ours rush speed lives. Please read it, it will give you something special too.
2022-05-03

8. It was ok - Thought it was ok. I was getting kind of frustrated at how the main character is basically obsessed with work and always having things in order. It felt boring and lacked dept. it’s a very easy read as well. The ending was not what I expected, but I just didn’t personally relate to the ending.
2022-01-08

9. Everything from light hearted fun and love, to heart shattering grief - I love how realistic this novel is; From Dannie’s work, to her relationship struggles with David and Greg/Aaron, to her close friendship with Bella. The way the tone and diction makes you fall into a deep connection with each character is exquisite, and you can see their true colors come out. Everything from light hearted fun and love, to heart shattering grief; by far my favorite novel.
2021-11-01

10. I wish I hadn't read it, save your time. - This book had some good ideas that never came together. The plot is so ill-placed that it ended as quickly as a bad sitcom that was canceled mid-season. One of the worst parts is that the entire story is from only the main character’s POV. Literally no one else. There’s a total of about twenty pages of dialogue from all the other characters combined. The love interests are at their core the same person, and they're both treated as disposable. Even the main character describes her best friend as a vapid hippie but implodes when they're separated. The plot and writing are painful because the book is peppered with erroneous name drops of different high-end clothing designers, tourist trap overpriced NYC restaurants, and parts of the city that have no bearing on the story. No character development, multiple changes in story direction for no reason, and a lack of a solid ending. I wish I hadn't paid for this book because I wouldn't even read it for free now or recommend it to anyone unless I dislike them.
2021-10-26

Release date: 2022-11-01 Genre:Fiction & Literature $5.99

Release date: 2020-01-21 $12.99

Comments

1. Amazing book for our time - If you have been one to ignore the reason behind why so many people come to our country illegally, this is a must read. If you have a heart at all, you will fully understand after this read. I’m so grateful this topic was faced and addressed head on in this book. So candid and real for what is going on today. Thank you!
2021-10-28

2. Viajar al Norte - The early controversy around this book had me reluctant to read it. The charge being that the author was speaking in a voice that was not her own, an experience she did not know, and culture she did not grow up in. But is that not what all creative writing is? Pulling a little bit from ourselves, what is around us, and filling in the rest with imagination and dexterity with the written word. So I tried it and was grateful for doing so. Migration to the US and EU by displaced groups is a hotly debated topic, whether legal or otherwise. Who should come, why should they be allowed, how many, and when. Politicians hold the final say in the rules but the conditions on the ground are what move to ignore them. For too long the wrong narrative has been told about this situation and held up any progress on immigration reform. That’s why it is so refreshing to read a book like “American Dirt” or “The New Odyssey” that tell the stories of who make dangerous and costly effort towards any possibility of hope. Because the alternative is often death with no help from an apathetic or corrupt government. Whether the experience of the author is % authentic or not, the stories need to get out there so all of us who are in a position to help can understand the why.
2021-04-20

3. A book to Remember - An unforgettable story of how a comfortable middle class life can change in an instant. This book tells the story of living in a country controlled by cartels. The harrowing journey people will make to escape the horror of their circumstances. The brutal inhuman treatment of innocent people. It is at times heartbreaking and hard to understand ,but also speaks of the spirit and resolve of people to get out and find a better life . This is a story for our time. A must read!!
2021-02-02

4. American Dirt - A powerful, riveting story of the journey that defines a migrant woman’s life. The heartbreaking and the hopeful events are intertwined, opening a vista into a world unknown to most People born into the American middle class. American Dirt is a simple title for an unfathomably complex relationship of personal attachment to people, place, and lifestyle. So many stories within this story of a courageous journey.
2021-01-29

5. Stronger Than They Thought! - Painful, poignant, powerful story of love, survival, and hope for the future. Mother and a young son’s harrowing journey of losing their entire family to the horrors of the Mexican cartel and escaping to the USA. If this doesn’t touch your heart, nothing will. Neither knew that they could do what was necessary but knew they had to survive.
2021-01-23

6. Beautiful - It’s not every day that a story captures my attention from start to finish the way this novel did. Jeanine has an amazing gift for store telling that made me so invested in the characters and what they had to endure. I recommend this book to everyone and I’m excited to read more work by this author!
2021-01-06

7. Trail of Tears - When we hear about illegal immigration, it is numbers of unambiguous people looking for a better life. The thousands of people are faceless and ready to invade our country. This book shows us the blood, sweat and tears of the journey along with the pain and problems that compels them to flee their homelands. The drug cartels have so much power and corrupt every level of government. This book holds your attention and begs you to continue reading to the end.
2021-01-01

8. Is this a Telenovela!? Or a book - Extremely fictitious it damages the cause way more than it helps. If you portray this story what about the millions of the other stories? does that make them less worthy because of the book exaggerated story? We need real story’s from real people. Sorry but I hated this book.
2020-12-23

9. It’s a NOVEL, people! Not a memoir. - Great, hair-raising story from start to finish. I couldn’t put it down! I highly recommend it. Cultural appropriation? I didn’t see it. At no point did the author suggest it was her personal story. Like all good writers, she researched her subject and wove what she learned into the storyline. It is common for novelists to write about topics beyond their own experience. I don’t see how this is an issue.
2020-11-06

10. Absolutely Amazing - As an immigrant myself having come to this country fleeing persecution and poverty I am so grateful someone put this story so palpable and made it so compelling that I couldn’t put it down from the moment I started reading it. Looking back, at my time spent in America, now as an American citizen I can’t help but to think how many people are still in the same situation and this book made me gain a new respect for those poor souls fleeing tragedy, and desperation trying to give their children a new, safer future.
2020-09-25

11. Simply well done - This story captivated me almost immediately. Coming from illegal immigrant parents myself and reading this book had me in tears. My parents stories were brief but I’m almost certain they encountered the same obstacles as the sisters. I loved it and the reader had was done so well.
2020-07-31

12. Captivating story! - Excellent book! I spent many nights not being able to put it down. It’s definitely on my top list of tops books I have ever read. Ignore all the negative reviews. You won’t regret reading this story. Even though it’s a work of fiction, it’s definitely given me a new perspective.
2020-07-02

Release date: 2023-01-03 Genre:Fiction & Literature $13.99

Comments

1. Oh so good! - I didn’t know what to expect and was delighted by what I experienced as I read. The women engaged me in their struggles and their reasoning. The men pretty much outraged and repulsed me while showcasing their weaknesses, as all bullies do. But the pages kept turning and I was hopelessly caught by the brilliant story telling of this amazing author. Kudos on your debut novel. Well done!
2023-01-30

Release date: 2008-09-24 $2.99

Comments

1. When Will There Be Good News? - Thirty years ago a young mother and her three young children are walking home with the family dog in Devon, a rural area of Scotland. A random stranger armed with a knife approaches, kills the mom, the year old daughter, the baby and the dog. Only year old Joanna escapes, running into the wheat field at her wounded mother's urging. Thirty years later a plucky year old, Reggie Chase, talks her way into a baby sitting job for the one year old son of Dr. Joanna Hunter. Reggie is smart, but from a dismal family situation. Around the same time former police officer Jackson Brodie gets on a crowded train, intending to return to London. He has, however mistakenly hopped on the train going the opposite direction. The three story lines come together when that train collides with a car on the track as it passes through Edinburgh. Author Kate Atkinson is brilliant at fleshing out the details of the lives of her myriad cast of characters. The issue becomes not so much Who Killed Who, but how the various characters will deal with the circumstances they have been handed. Several of the characters seem to have a literary bent, frequently recalling bits of poetry or literature that comes to their minds as the story unfolds. The plot has several interesting story lines and some surprising twists and turns toward the end of the book. Quite the satisfying read and I am eager to enjoy more from Ms. Atkinson as the opportunities arise!
2013-03-27

Release date: 2020-10-06 Genre:Fiction & Literature $9.99

Comments

1. Not great - This book could’ve been so much better. A lot of time was spent explaining the events of the first books in the trilogy and it really didn’t add much depth to the outstanding issues. She added a few more characters but they didn’t add anything to the story line. The first two books were enjoyable. The third was unnecessary.
2021-06-01

2. These reviews didn’t lie. - I don’t trust reviews very often because I like to make my own judgements. However, in this case I should’ve listened. I read the first two and liked them! Had to finish the trilogy but should’ve just read some cliff notes. I was boggled with all the parts of this particular book that felt irrelevant to the entire story and it was a long trudge to the finish line. In the end, happy I read the series. Wish the story would’ve just been a single book.
2020-12-30

3. Waste of time - I should have known not to purchase this book because I was so disappointed in the endings of the st two books. I was so hoping this one would be better but most of it was just rambling on about side characters. She did wrap up most of the storylines in - pages about % of the way into the book and then it was so hard to finish because it was like she started a whole new book. I had to make myself finish the book.
2020-12-07

Release date: 2022-06-07 Genre:Fiction & Literature $11.99

Comments

1. A Great Vacation Read! - Nora’s life wasn’t perfect, her husband had left her and the kids, leaving her to be a single mom. When her script was chosen to be made into a movie and filmed at her house, she jumped at the opportunity. Arthur, her son didn’t like all the attention at school it had brought, while her daughter, Bernadette thinks it’s cool! When filming is over, one of the actors, Leo, goes missing. Nora finds him sleeping on her front porch. She is not pleased and is totally annoyed. Leo at first reminds her of her ex-husband. Eventually, he asks to stay for a week and is willing to pay $/day. Between what she was paid for the movie and this additional pay, this would help her out immensely with her financial situation. She agrees, but is uncertain of the situation. Will this cause further disruption or will this guest will help her to see what is missing in her life and get her to live life a little? A fun light read that will have you turning the pages to find out! Definitely a great Summer read for those who love a good rom-com! A perfect book for your beach or pool bag!
2022-06-07

Release date: 2021-01-05 Genre:Fiction & Literature $11.99

Comments

1. Incredible - It’s clear that Audrain has a talent for suspense—I couldn’t put this book down. And unlike other thriller-suspense novels, you feel as if you know the main character, Blythe. You’re living through her generational trauma, allowing you to better understand what she’s seeing and why she’s framing her life in the ways she does. Only criticism: Would have liked more from the ending. Otherwise, this is a must read novel.
2022-09-06

2. An Honest Review - I absolutely love this book, and I'm typically not much of a reader. It was a difficult yet captivating book to read that left me wanting more. It had the right balance of well-developed, yet predicable moments, and blunt, unexpected twists. Although I am not a mother, I felt every ounce of Blythe's experience, to the point of hatred for a young girl. My only complaint is that people are rating the book unfairly. Books should not be rated poorly because your trauma made them difficult to read. The book is raw and unapologetic, expect that.
2022-08-03

3. Devoured this. So spot on. - There are withdrawals after reading this book. You immediately search for another something by the author… and then think maybe you can find something similar to no avail. You don’t have to be a mother to be altered by this book. Absolutely perfect and rivals any Gone Girl On The Train varietals.
2022-03-29

4. Gripping, heart-wrenching, beautifully written thriller that grabs you from beginning to end. - If you’re a woman who’s feeling pressured by family and friends to become a mother, yet you’re not ready, then start reading The Push. Then press the book into their hands. The brave ones won’t be able to put it down. The cowards will shoo it away in denial and fear.
2021-06-20

5. Intense - A very good read... gets more intense with each page that’s turned. It was hard to put down. It was a little confusing understanding who certain characters were with the way the storyline was written. Sometimes you’re reading Blythes story or her childhood others it’s Cecelia’s childhood etc- very dark and sad..this book made me dislike Violet so much. I wish there was more to this book..I’m hooked!
2021-03-18

6. A psychological page turner! - The Push is a dark psychological drama on the making and breaking of a family, and one women's experience of motherhood being nothing she hoped for but everything she feared. This debut novel is an absolute page-turner depicting mother-daughter relationships across generations. Majority of the women honestly don't deserve to be mothers and deal their emotional and physical blows on the daughters they try to raise. The story centers around Blythe who must sleep with one eye open in fear of her own daughter, Violet. Blythe struggles with her complicated feelings for Violet who trashes, cries and torments her on a daily basis. Is Violet truly a violent child who would harm others? This is an unsettling read, but beautiful. It doesn't shy away from parenthood fears and the not so fun times of being a mother. The Push is disturbing, addictive read with an ending that is haunting.
2021-03-05

7. Psychologically gripping - I couldn’t put this down until I finished and the dark twists and heart racing turns their circumstances and traumatic experiences were. It was surreal trying to absorb just exactly how terrifying it is to think about these things happening and how anyone could survive the aftermath of it all is almost unimaginable. The worst nightmare of any family’s to live with
2021-01-22