Books most popular in the United States●Historical

Release date: 2017-07-25 $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: 2023-03-21 Genre:Fiction & Literature $14.99

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: 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: 2022-06-14 $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: 2023-03-07 Genre:Fiction & Literature $14.99

Release date: 2015-02-03 Genre:Fiction & Literature $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: 2021-02-02 Genre:Fiction & Literature $11.99

Comments

1. Beautifully written story but no fairytale ending - I have heard such wonderful things about the author and my book club decided we’d tackle this thick tome. The story of this woman’s life is incredibly compelling and paints a bleak picture of life for women in the Great Depression and into the Dust Bowl. As a native Texan who drives through this tiny town every other year (headed to Colorado), I was intrigued to read about the town during its time of prosperity. But the life of a woman who’s always been told she’s unlovable is a tough road. I still encourage you to dive in & swim to the finish, if only to see what those days required of a brave woman.
2023-03-07

2. Just okay. - I was surprised to see so many rave reviews about this book- I thought it was just okay. I love stories about characters surviving hardships, (books like White Oleander & The Glass Castle are some of my favorites.) So I thought I would really enjoy this. However, I was put off by the typical “insecure woman protagonist meets handsome hero & suddenly becomes empowered because he told her he thinks she’s beautiful!”trope. The characters felt flat & uninspiring. The last third of the book was really hard to get through, the plot point with the workers strikes just dragged on, it felt like I was reading the same scenes over & over for about pages. The writing style was also just okay- a little too much melodrama for me. There was a lot of repetition in the writing, a lot of unnecessary adjectives- it felt like the author was picking words straight out of the thesaurus & just plugging them into each sentence, but it didn’t always work, & at times, the inconsistent narrative voice took me out of the story. I saw it through to the end but really skimmed through the last pages or so. I wish it had been more impactful, but I wasn’t invested enough in the characters. I really wanted to love it, but it just wasn’t quite there for me.
2022-12-21

3. Good insight into the dust bowl - This is a great historical fiction book that gave me a better idea about how life was like for survivors of the dust bowl. I was confused at intimacy part in the beginning but it got better after. The main character is a strong headed woman willing to do anything for her kids. It did seem like everything that could go wrong did go wrong. I give it stars because it kept me wanting to read and I learned something new.
2022-12-05

4. Okay - I was a little weary to read this book because of the varying reviews. However, I didn’t hate it. It opened my eyes to the hardships faced by those during that era and made me feel grateful and blessed for all that I have. It is a bit of a slow read in my opinion. The ending broke my mama heart and I did shed a few tears. I feel as though some parts were very repetitive and some parts carried on for a little too long. All in all, it was an okay book and I’m not sure if I would recommend this one to anyone.
2022-11-05

5. You have to read this book!!! - This is the best book I have read in years and I am an avid reader!! Absolutely loved it! The plot keeps you hanging on and you just can’t put it down. It’s so easy to get attached to the characters, I found myself paging ahead at times because I was so worried for them. What was going to happen next?! I don’t often read books twice but this one might be the exception. I highly recommend this book!!!
2022-09-13

6. Finding a voice has never been so moving. - Thoroughly engaging, real women are the backbone of Hannah’s works. The Four Winds brings the Dust Bowl era to life through Elsa & Loreda. Leaning into the challenges of the mother-daughter dynamic on multiple fronts, Hannah crafted a moving story of family, faith, love, loss, LIFE! Highly recommended.
2021-12-01

7. Well written… - At the beginning, it was a crush of a lonely young and inexperienced woman… then it wasn’t. The passing of time was key to this story as was the settings, the Dust Bowl and the cotton fields of the promised land, California. The story between mother and daughter, husband and wife, migrant and “boss”… so intertwined and perfectly done too. Highly recommend this novel.
2021-09-08

8. Grapes of Wrath Knockoff with Codependence - This book was just death and suffering, with a snotty teenaged daughter to boot. I was unable to empathize with a lead character who rebels suddenly and stupidly against her biological family “out of emotional desperation” only to get stuck with a drunk, a daughter she lets insult her at every turn, and oh, the Dust Bowl. Hundreds of pages of dirt, loss, and hopelessness. Finally I skipped to the last chapters just to end it.
2021-08-15

Release date: 2021-06-29 Genre:Fiction & Literature $12.99

Comments

1. Captures the imagination from a historical standpoint - This story sheds a light into the world of high society, art, travel and segregation in the s. The secret of living as a white person afforded Belle a great life but cost her soul. A True but sad historical fiction that is intriguing. My view of the past is forever changed in a way that was needed! Great book you will not want to put down!
2023-02-04

2. Loved a lot about this book - Great story that makes me want to know about Belle, JPMorgan, their amazing library and collections. And architecture. Loved learning about this wonderfully successful woman of color! Am Definitely going to read some non- fiction about this topic and these people. Some parts of the story felt simplified and repetitive…made me curious about why the story was told that way. I’m sure there was a reason.
2023-01-12

3. Too didactic in tone; not my cup of tea! - Stopped reading after the abortion. Fascinated by the historical character, but the authors went a bit too far in the assumption that there was an unwanted child. The Belle of this book is far too haughty and self-absorbed. I’m reading the biography instead.
2022-08-08

4. Beautifully written - I read this book after seeing it in the gift shop at the JPMorgan library in NYC. It was amazing to read the book and reflect on photos I took while visiting. Belle’s story is amazing and written so well, I thank Marie and Victoria for their work and passion poured into this masterpiece.
2022-08-03

5. Engrossing - The Personal Librarian was one of the best books I have read. It captured my interest immediately and sustained it throughout. I was fortunate to visit The Morgan Library & Museum in NY which enhanced my appreciation of both the book and this gem of an institution. I strongly recommend the book and, at a minimum, a virtual visit of the Library.
2022-05-14

6. Outstanding, Captivating, Phenomenal! - I have come to fall in love with Belle de Costa Greene as a audacious, courageous, African American woman who I did not know of. This historical fiction brings to life an era in American history that should remind us of the imperfect imbalance in our society today. The Personal Librarian tells the story of a courageous woman, who had to do what she had to do to not only survive, but thrive.
2021-08-08

Release date: 2023-03-07 $14.99

Comments

1. A Page Turner! - Sarah Penner is back, but this time it’s a book about Seances and summoning the dead in order to find out who did it? It’s a fast paced book that will keep you entertained as the President of the London Seance Society is murdered and the experts are called in to discover the truth. Can they figure it out or will it stir up more questions? This story alternates between Lenna in Paris and Mr. Morley in London . Lenna is taught by Vaudelline D’Allaire, famously known for being able to hold seances for the purpose of summoning the spirits of those who had been murdered to find out who killed them. Lenna wants to be able to learn how to do this, in order to find out not only find out who murdered her sister, but could make money helping others do the same. Can Lenna learn from Vaudeline and will it turn out the way she expected? Mr. Morley is Vice President in the Department of Spiritualism at the Seance Society in London. The President of the society was killed at a seance, so it was up to Mr Morley to get things straightened out. Mr Morley asks Vaudelline to come back to London to perform the seance? Can she discover who in fact killed him? Was it a colleague like rumored? What will be discovered as Lena and Vauldelime investigate? I loved the character development in this book as it makes you think about them in one light and by the end, an entirely different opinion is formed! This makes for page turner as you want to know more as Lenna and Mr Morley reveal the secrets! Such a well written, and highly entertaining book! Perfect for those who held seances at sleepovers in the ’s and ’s.
2023-03-07

Release date: 2020-09-15 $7.99

Comments

1. Outstanding as always for Follett - I keep thinking that Follett’s books cannot possibly get better and, as always, I am pleasantly disappointed that they are! I’ve read ever book of Follett’s with my first taste being Eye of the Needle some years ago. Never disappointed. Always drawn in to where I feel I know all the characters personally - the good and the evil ones. This story is a riveting conclusion to the Pillars series and was a wonderful prequel.
2022-09-23

2. Yes and no - It’s been several years since reading Pillars of the Earth and l was intrigued with this prequel story. All the plot twists were well done but the constant sexual activity descriptions were over done! Except for the historical setting and lifestyle, I wouldn’t have finished the book. A woman’s bodice ripper by a male author. Sorry
2022-08-10

3. Oh Brother... - While I am a huge fan of Follett, this book was more than a challenge to finish. I would have to agree with other reviewers that it does not feel authentic to Follett’s work. I’m sorry to be negative - “The Morning and The Evening” reads more like a grocery store Romance novel. This teetered on ridiculous...
2021-01-28

4. The Bad Guys Lives the Best Years of Their Lives - I’ve started to notice a trend with Ken Follet’s “Kingsbridge” series. The bad guys lives the best years of their lives. It makes for a depressing and unfulfilling read because there’s no repercussions until the good people have suffered, lost every battle, and given up. Then the antagonists finally screwed up somewhere and pay a small price for all the evil they’ve committed at an old ripe age that garners only a few pages of turmoil. Less than .%/.% of the series was written for the karma on the antagonists. Follet’s message is clear: a good person does not have the ability to save another. Evildoers achieves greatness and you wait for them to implode upon themselves.
2021-01-11

5. Mr. Follett does it again - I devoured this most recent installment of the Kingsbridge saga just like the others. What the characters lack in depth and nuance, they make up for in tugging at heartstrings and stoking fires of anger and resentment. Follett is a master storyteller, as he proves here once again.
2020-12-29

6. Dark age characters speak in st century dialogue - Granted we don’t wish the author to emulate Canterbury Tales, but really, this book reads more like a Made for TV movie. Book is comprised mainly of dialogue and sounds like it was written for YA audience. Predictable plot and thin characterization.
2020-12-26

7. Needed more character development - The book was good but felt rushed. There could have been more development of the characters. The story was also almost too predictable, there were few events that I didn’t see coming. Skipping over the year was disappointing, it was an eventful milestone in the church and should have been mentioned. At the end of the book there could have been a few more pages to tie it to the first book in the series. Overall, a joy to read. Sad to see the series come to an end.
2020-11-14

8. Great book - Just a great read that immerses you in the year in England. The characters are beautifully detailed and you become a front row observer of lives well lived, and long gone. This book works beautifully to set up the King’s Bridge series. Do yourself a favor and go for it. It’s one of those books you are quickly hooked into, that you will want to binge, though I tried to stretch it out. Just a wonderful read...enjoy!
2020-11-06

9. Volume is excellent! - After reading the Kingsbridge trilogy and then the Century trilogy I thought that Follett was probably done with this genre, so I was pleased to pre-order and immediately read the prequel. It is a terrific read as were the others, only disappointing because it ended. I hope he has the energy and motivation to do another such series!
2020-10-26

10. Same story again - Another story where the two main characters love each other but can’t be together for whatever reason. Pretty much a retread of every book in this series. What’s more disappointing is the presence of a nunnery and the significant role it plays. Not that I have an issue with a nunnery at all. But there is NO mention of a nunnery in PILLARS. The nunnery doesn’t assume a role until WORLD WITHOUT END. PILLARS was years long with no mention of nuns in Kingsbridge. Yet this prequel puts the nunnery front and center years prior? An oversight by the author and editors.
2020-10-26

11. Bad Love Story - I've read nearly every one of his books and this is comparatively disappointing. It is one long love story wrapped in not terribly interesting English history. I would not have read it had I know. Read the last page of the book and you'll know then entire story. If you start reading this will disappoint you greatly. This is a sign of a faulty book. My guess is that the entire book is ghost written.
2020-10-18

Release date: 2022-11-08 $5.99

Comments

1. Enthralling & Engaging Story! - Loved reading the enthralling and engrossing story. While Alys and her husband, Captain Shore, and Alinor go on with their lives at the wharf, trouble is just around the corner when Livia drops in to see her son and asks him for a dangerous favor involving Captain Shore, but in return, Matthew asks and is given the lands and deeds to Foulmire in the Tidelands, the land Alinor loved and fond memories of. Read the highly recommended, wonderfully written, and riveting storyline. Can't wait to read the next story in the series by the phenomenal author, Philippa Gregory.
2022-12-05

2. Historical Fiction - Dawnlands by Philippa Gregory is a sensational Historical Fiction book set in . Elinor and her family face many challenges in this rd volume of The Fairmile Series. Gregory transports her readers to by bringing history and her characters to life. In my opinion there’s no better way to feel, experience and understand history than to read well researched Historical Fiction. In the latest book of this series we share the lives of the characters in this marvelous book of the English Civil War. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. I appreciate the opportunity and thank the author and publisher for allowing me to read, enjoy and review this book. Stars
2022-11-08

Release date: 2023-02-07 $14.99

Release date: 2022-05-03 $14.99

Comments

1. Potential not reached - I really feel like this book had potential to be great but, the stories seemed shallow. Additionally, I could not finish the book because of how frequent there seemed to be notes where the author intended to elaborate. I tried to keep reading but, half way through the book it became too aggravating.
2023-02-09

2. Meh - While the writing is good, the story is not. Seems good writing is enough for a race to today, but this has no substance in characterization. Rather, every character seems to be a stereotype we’ve read about before, and each telling their own version of the story is just a gimmick that does nothing to enhance the depth. Hard pass sadly.
2022-11-27

3. This rambling novel isn’t finished? - Apparently the authors notes are still in the text. Examples: “More about Tommy,” and, “Give example.” These notes are sprinkled into the text about / of the way through. I was somewhat exasperated with the fact that this novel doesn’t seem to go anywhere or have any clear direction, but the notes made me give up. I would like a refund, but don’t expect that will happen. Steer clear of this one.
2022-09-14

Release date: 2022-02-08 $16.99

Release date: 2016-09-06 $9.99

Comments

1. A gentleman worth spending time with - This book is a delight! Narrated in the almost-tongue-in-cheek tone of Downton Abbey, it is the story of an old world gentleman who finds himself in a challenging circumstance: under house arrest in the wake of the Russian Revolution. He is challenged to maintain standards of decorum and to sustain a positive outlook on life. The story of how he does so is told with Russian culture and Soviet history as the backdrop. At its core, A Gentleman in Moscow is a story about the triumph of the human spirit. I can’t recommend it more highly.
2022-04-16

2. A life well lived - I do not write reviews often, but this is a special book. I have been looking for it for two years. It might be called a feel good classic, but it goes far beyond that. There is plenty of pain—things not to feel good about—but one man rises above it and touches the lives of many others along the way. A delicately woven story of love and loss told by a master story teller, A Gentleman In Moscow will not disappoint the seeker of a few hours escape from the reality of our complicated times or a reminder that other times were also complicated.
2022-02-13

3. Lovely read - I very much enjoyed this wonderful book. The vivid descriptions and great story invite you in to get lost in Moscow a lifetime ago. It is a great escape from modern day accompanied with historical context to learn just how Moscow used to be. I especially appreciated the pleasant positive ending that differed from the more popular tragic endings nowadays.
2021-08-07

4. Like it so much - I like it so much I’ve read it months ago and it really was great and feels so real (that I thought it was real too)I’m waiting now the release of “Lincoln highway” and expect the same perfection!( this review is from a fan of Russian literature and the word “ Moscow” was the first reason of my reading and it didn’t let me down).
2021-06-27

5. a year old girl’s opinion nobody asked for - Three stars. Why, you may ask? Oh I’ll tell you why, plain and simple. Boring. Yes, it is boring, well written? Yes, the vocabulary and the dialogue is all great, but there simply is no action. The man is always just cruising around the hotel and always doing the same thing over and over again. I read the synopsis and thought it would be an eventful, action filled book. What we are essentially looking at is a man who is restricted from exiting a hotel located in Moscow. This brings for a very anticlimactic plot because the man and the readers only get to know what is going on inside the building. I almost considered returning it because I have so many other books to read, but yeah, this definitely wasn’t my favorite book. If you are looking for good historical fiction, check out Ruta Sepetys, she is an excellent historical fiction author! And of course they are loads more to discover too!
2021-03-15

6. Boring. Irrelevant. Well-written but empty. - In the hundreds of historical fiction novels I’ve read, most have a captivating story where characters are placed in the middle of great historical events. This book is the antithesis of that. Our protagonist is seemingly shielded from a period of time in Russia when there is so much happening. While the Revolution, the purges, WW, the Cold War are all happening we are trapped with an out of touch man doing unimportant things in an unimportant place with unimportant people. If your interest is how to be a good waiter in ’s USSR then this book is for you. If you’d like a story that means something, I’d look elsewhere.
2021-02-24

7. A Gentleman in Moscow - One of the best books I’ve read! It is very well written, and you must follow the story closely in the beginning as the author gives a bit of background and history. Towles transitions beautifully between the past and present tying them both together into an intricate and endearing story. So glad that I read this....didn’t want it to end!!
2020-05-09

8. The least fluid read I’ve ever - I’m not sure if the book style of writing changes after a few chapters or what. But I read the sample chapters before buying and thought the book would be great and interesting. But the writing is so unnatural to read I can’t stay interested. Like reading the King James Bible or something. Just doesn’t flow for me. I can’t finish it so a waste of money for me.
2019-11-13

Release date: 2020-07-21 $12.99

Comments

1. Learning to Survive through Imagination of Books - The history of WW needs to be remembered how hate tried to erase a group of people. I can’t fathom having the ability that the characters had to survive. The story that the author used intertwining the young woman with the woman she becomes…. Is spell binding. War changes every one. As I write this review I think of the Ukrainian people are going through a this present time. I watch and pray people on both sides caught in this conflict.
2022-03-10

2. Wow! - So, I never write book reviews but I had to for this one! I haven’t been so moved by a book in a long time! Kristin Harmel is such an amazing author and I have read other books by her after finishing this one. Eva is a character you will be cheering on from the start and her journey will really touch you! I finished it in days because I couldn’t put it down! MUST READ!!!
2021-06-15

3. Another home run! - Another home run by Harmel! I could not put this book down. She brings the characters to life in such a dynamic way that makes you root for them, cry with them and want to hug them. The historical perspective woven through the story is intriguing. This one will stay with me for years.
2021-03-10

4. Catchy but with gaps - It’s an interesting story. But it leaves one flat when the story line jumps more than months and with no idea how was to journey in Switzerland. Or if she manages to find any of the kids she saves. Besides it should say based on facts of history. ( the war, the forgery, but that’s the extent of it). But all the rest is fiction. Not really based on a true story.
2020-10-13

5. Great read! - There are many books describing the atrocities committed at the hands of the Nazis. I would read every single one in the memory of the million lost. This book is gripping and keeps you on the edge to the very end. It makes us pause and reflect on thing we so take for granted in today’s society. We must be grateful for our freedom, something many lost during WWII.
2020-08-23

6. Outstanding - If you've never read any books by Kristin Harmel, now is the time! She is a wonderful author with great stories to tell. The Book of Lost Names is a historical fiction novel, inspired by a true story from WWII. Eva has a talent for forgery, which she uses to help Jewish children escape the Nazi wrath. This book goes back and forth between the past and present, while Eva relives her war time experience from many years ago. I loved reading this beautiful and touching story about a woman's bravery to defeat evil and did not want it to end.
2020-08-09

Release date: 2008-05-06 Genre:Fiction & Literature $12.99

Release date: 2022-03-29 $12.99

Comments

1. Bull’s Eye - This was by far the best , most enthralling, book I have read this year. The fact that most all of it is true makes it even better. For Americans to read this book is even more important, especially with the war raging in Ukraine. To understand the present we must learn about the past.
2023-02-26

2. The Diamond Eye - So interesting and timely. I love Kate Quinn’s historical fiction. It’s horrifying but not difficult to imagine a woman in Ukraine being called to protect her homeland and family today. Some of the current countries have swapped roles but the threat to freedom and family is sadly the same.
2022-04-25

Release date: 2022-02-15 $12.99

Release date: 2015-09-01 $1.99

Release date: 2017-06-06 $9.99

Comments

1. One of the best books I’ve read to date - Truly heart-wrenching but extremely well-researched and written. Couldn’t put it down. I loved the fictionalized story used to tell the true events of this atrocity in history to make for a smooth cohesive read. So incredibly changed by this story and book. A must read.
2022-07-05

2. Captivating - From the first page I was caught up in the lives of these children. The weaving of the story is excellent and the surprises and historical parallels are captivating. I was born in on the west coast but my parent’s told stories of people like Georgia. They warned me there were people who would take children for monetary gain. Very interesting as the connections continued over several generations in this well told story based on facts. Loved the painful but positive ending and the love for grandparents .
2022-06-27

3. A beautifully written book - I had to make myself slow down when reading this very moving and powerful book otherwise I would miss the Author’s incredible use of language. Her phrases, stream of consciousness thinking by her main characters, and description of the surrounding environments are brilliant. While the story is a tragedy in US history, the Author approaches the subject with characters that you can truly feel and just want to embrace. Wonderful and captivating read.
2022-05-13

4. Captivating - Emotionally gripping. Learning that the fictional characters in this book were based on real events in the not-too-distant past made this book more powerful to me even after reading it. It’s written in chapters that alternate two of its character’s POV, each in different generations. It was sometimes hard not to skip over a chapter in order to find out right away what happened after the end of the last one. Each chapter left me wanting to know what happened next, most particularly with those told by Rill.
2021-12-04

5. Near to my heart! - My mom was an orphan . Her mother died shortly after her birth from the flu epidemic. Her father was not well either. He realized he couldn’t care for a newborn baby girl and other older children. Mom was adopted by a local family, while other children were raised in an orphanage. Mom was fortunate because her parents provided her with a wonderful life. This story explained so much of her feelings and the other children. The story is compelling and I love it to the very last page. Highly recommend that you read it. “Dance to your own music in life! “
2021-08-03

6. Amazing book - The only down side of this book is you can’t put it down. You can’t stop reading it. So don’t start if you have things to do. It is been a while since I clicked with the book. English is my second language, so sometimes it is hard for me to get in to the reading, but this book... I can “see and feel it”.
2021-04-14

7. Heartbreakingly real - ‘Before We Were Yours’ reached into my soul and horrified me, then raised me up to hope that our world can be better. The Georgia Tanns of this world must be stopped. Awareness of how far people selfishly go for their own benefit is vital to eradicating such evils. Sadly human trafficking is still in our news every day. Adoption is beautiful when done to truly help children. Thank you for a gripping story, though fiction, that reminds us to be aware and alert to such wrong doing.
2020-12-05

8. Heartbreaking story.. - I had been wanting to read this book for awhile, the begging was a little slow for me to really get into the book, but finally I was drawn into the characters story and could not wait to see how this book unfolds. It is a very heartbreaking story of children who were born into a poor river family, even though they were poor they were loved and had one another, but the children were basically stolen away, they were abused and tortured by the adults that took them, however this story proves that the love of siblings runs deeper than anything.
2020-11-13

9. Disappointed - I like historical fiction but this book falls flat. I found it boring. I was surprised it was so highly rated and and New York Times best seller. it reminds me of a driving miss Daisy and fried green tomatoes but lacking any depth in the characters. It was predictable. It ended exactly the way I thought it would.
2020-04-16

10. River Gypsies - This book is captivating with a mystery at every turn. The fact that it is Historical fiction tells the tale of the River Gypsies who lived on the river during the depression. They had no property to live on so they moved to the River and literally lived on the water in a shanty. I learned about a culture I never knew existed. Multiple orphanages in the black market and how it affected so many lives. This was definitely a good read.
2019-08-26

Release date: 2021-03-09 $11.99

Comments

1. Great story- hard to put down! - An excellent read! Fascinating historical fiction with interesting, believable characters and intriguing plot twists that keep you riveted. Highly recommend — I loved the way the story is centered on and evolves around relationships while offering a glimpse into the crucial roles women filled in WWII.
2023-03-13

2. Historical fiction deep dive - This book seems great for historical fiction super fans. I’ve dabbled in historical fiction and am not that familiar with the author’s other works. So I felt like I was in a bit over my head with this epic read, which I felt dragged on at times. I was also lost with some of the historical British references and lingo, even though I lived in England for a few years myself. Although I appreciated how well-written the story was.
2022-04-28

3. One of my favorites - I loved this book, could not put it down. I am drawn to WWII books and different views from the different countries involved. Learning about the decoding was something else very new to me and so informative, so involved. Development of these characters by the author was so thorough and well done, I felt like they were my friends and/or acquaintances in real life.
2021-07-10

4. The Rose Code - I got lost in this novel. The story follows three very different women. Mab from Shoreditch who is determined to better her life. Beth with her brilliant mind and overbearing mother. Then there is Olsa the sassy debutante from Canada. Like so many others during this time, war creates unlikely friendships and can tear those friendships apart in a moment. The story pivots between the war years and the days leading up to the royal wedding in . The story ties real events into the story and gives us readers an idea of what life was like at top secret Bletchley Park. Although we will never know everything. There are plot twists and intrigue along the way. The story is an excellent choice if you are interested in the stories of women during war and a peek into the world of code breaking.
2021-06-19

5. I could hardly stand to keep reading it and yet couldn’t put it down!! - Fantastic characters! This book was funny, interesting, and utterly heartbreaking. Just when I thought I couldn’t take anymore and put the book away, I’d pick it up again and read some more! I have never had such a love/hate relationship with a book. This is Kate Quinn’s best book yet!
2021-03-18

Release date: 2022-11-29 $14.99

Release date: 2017-06-06 $10.99

Comments

1. ..and I’m not a big fan of modern fiction! - I stick with mostly the classics….Brontë sisters, Austen, Lousia May Alcott, you get it. I truly did NOT want this book to end. The author spins a captivating tale right from the beginning, and melds the two timelines together seamlessly. I’m about to start another book by this same author!
2022-07-31

2. Could have been written better - The basic story of this book is interesting. But I found that all of the cliche’s in the book were annoying. And if she mentioned the Luger or Lagonda one more time.......Where was the editor? I read a lot of books and maybe that is why I thought that it was not that great. It has lots of potential to be better if it could be written differently. I finished it ONLY because my book club is reading it.
2020-07-25

3. COMPELLING READ! By Cincy Kid ! - Haven’t read a book so intense and heart-wrenching yet also so heartwarming- as what Ms. Quinn has very eloquently written. This is beyond () STARS- I will definitely be reading more of her work. These () women show why the female gender is the stronger- us men are “wimps ” in comparison! JB
2019-02-05

4. I want to read it OVER sand OVER again! - I could have never imagined how good this book was going to be. I honestly picked it not knowing what it was truly about but I saw it was a book club pick so I tried it. And I’m glad I did! I love this time era and I also love reading about the holocaust and the nazis and ww. It was a thrilling storyline, one I could relate to in ways, it was heartbreaking and hilarious (I found myself laughing out loud) and surprising all in one. I would recommend it to certain people and not others due to the vulgar language and the very detailed sexual encounters. That would have been my only complaint because this is a book EVERYONE should be able to read.
2018-10-29

5. The Alice Network - Between the tough language, gratuitous violence and sexuality, I didn’t enjoy this book as much as I thought I would. Definitely dark and not much redemption even until the end. I love this genre and time period but just could have done without so much of it. Too much soul-selling.
2018-09-25

6. The Alice Network - Great story. Compelling read. Characters are developed beautifully. The juxtaposition between the two female characters was fascinating showing how far woman’s options have come. The material provided at the end of the book adds to the story by sorting out fictional from factual people in the book. Learned a lot about history while reading a novel.
2018-07-27

7. The Alice Network - Fascinating tale bringing real heroism to light. A page-turner I could not put down. This talented story crafter interweaves the intrigue and suspense of a WWI spy with post WWII upheaval through the life of Charlie, a young girl whose lost cousin in France sends unlikely friends on a journey that embraces adventure, then danger as she finds her inner voice and strength. It fills in the fictional backdrop to the real historical figure of the least known but most effective spy of WWI. A MUST READ.
2018-03-16

8. Exceptional - In the era of the introduction of many WWll stories, this one stands at the top of the list. The author deftly interweaves facts and historical tidbits together with her story to make it virtually a history novel. A book you won't want to put down and will rue the day you finish it. Enjoy!
2017-07-08

9. Kate Quinn’s skills in making the transitions from factual inclusions told in a fictional character’ - A dual-perspective story blends two tales: the first of Charlie who, in is pregnant, unmarried, and while in Europe to remedy that situation at her parents’ behest, decides to discover just what happened to a beloved cousin who disappeared in Nazi-Occupied France and the tale of Eve, joining the fight against the Germans as a trained operative in a female-heavy spy network, The Alice Network, until treachery brought its downfall. Fascinating reading as Quinn gives us Charlie’s story: the death of her brother brought the whole family low: and reignited her questions about her cousin Rose and just how (or why) she disappeared in German-occupied France during the second world war. Deciding to find answers to her questions despite her parents’ plans for her trek to Europe unlocks a series of twists, turns and strange parallels between the young student and the now middle-aged former spy Eve. A series of betrayals and surprises brought the unlikely Eve to the place she is now. Nearly a recluse, bitter and disillusioned, she also has questions about the end of the Alice network, and perhaps some of those answers and her own experience will help Charlie solve the mystery of Rose’s disappearance. With her only regular human contact being her ‘man of all things’ Finn, the three set out to find answers and uncover secrets long buried. Charlie’s story is told in first person, Eve’s in third: the strange correlations that keep popping up between the two in terms of life experience and losses. With one of Charlie’s only clues being a man named René and a restaurant become the impetus for Eve’s teaming up with Charlie to find answers. Oh the twists, turns and bits of information and history dropped throughout this book are wonderful: some heartbreaking, others using humor, all highlighted by the sense of purpose and determination displayed by Eve, her compatriots and others working to resist the threats. Spy stories are obsession worthy – they usually have everything: drama, intrigue, danger and enemies: hard to resist that combination. But Quinn did one more thing here: she brought us characters that are flawed yet wholly human, determined to finally get answers, some long overdue: while billed as a search for Charlie’s cousin, what emerges even more strongly is the rediscovered courage, pride and purpose for both Charlie and Eve as they unravel the knots to get to answers, settle questions and tell stories of courage, danger and betrayals of the past. Perfect for readers who want a perspective from history that is not well-known, Kate Quinn’s skills in making the transitions from factual inclusions told in a fictional character’s voice are unparalleled: each informing the other as the tension, emotion and information are revealed. I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via Edelweiss for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
2017-06-06

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: 2021-10-05 $12.99

Comments

1. Best Journey You’ll Take - I just loved this story. Just when you think there’s no divine justice, there it is. This will be a highly recommended book to my friends and one I shall read again. I used to believe no one analyzed things like me. I was wrong. I wish the world were still like it was the ’s.
2022-08-25

2. A beautiful allegory; morality through and through - This is a masterclass in story telling, with an air of Huckleberry Finn and his adventures, even originating in the bowels of middle American, but stretching the great big city with the hopes of turning back the other way all the way to where sun is high and bridge, majestic.
2022-05-08

3. Unreadable - Not because this book poorly written; Amor Towles is a talented writer. However some flaming idiot has decided that instead of using opening and closing quotation marks around dialog, as does virtually every other book you’ll ever read, they’ll open dialog with an M-dash, and then not even bother to close it at all. Readers are free to guess for themselves where dialog ends and description resumes. This weird punctuation is so distracting to this reader that it renders the book unreadable — literally. (And yes, that was an example of an M-dash used properly.)
2022-03-25

4. Relationships Matter - Beautiful character development with activity for each that straddled tension between doubt and faith, wrong and right and the path of forgiveness and redemption. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the author’s ability to bring the internal thinking of the characters to life in full color.
2022-03-19

5. Boring - Ironic that the characters talk about the glacial pace of The Count of Monte Cristo. This book is flat-out boring and the characters are unbelievable. The meditations of -year olds on life’s great truths and the profound dialogue of an -year old become grating. I don’t get why people like this book. Gave up on it.
2022-01-22

6. A wonderful read! - I first found Amor Towles when I read A Gentleman In Moscow. I loved his writing. I loved his way with words and expression and flow. I felt as if I were right in the middle of his story, watching from a distance. This book, The Lincoln Highway is now my favorite book of Towles! Such a journey. Again, his way with words is so exceptional and so rewarding to read! I can’t wait for his next book and my next adventure!
2022-01-17

7. Somewhat Unexpected and Different - Having read Towle’s other books with great satisfaction (particularly A Gentleman from Moscow), I found this novel to be very different in tone and far less compelling. I found the jumping of narrative from one character to another distracting. Also, the young protagonist’s language, thoughts and actions seemed beyond his years. The boy was either a budding genius or a mystical, unexplained figure that I, being neither, couldn’t quite grasp. But, the author certainly has a way with language that often requires further thought.
2022-01-07

8. Lincoln Highway - Thoroughly enjoyable book for the interesting characters and the Odyssey of a cross country trip in . Towles has a wonderful way of expressing thoughts and ideas that caused me to want to highlight sentences on nearly every page. Am not sure I enjoyed this as much as Towles other two books, but still wouldn’t have missed this journey with an ace storyteller. Highly recommend.
2022-01-07

Release date: 2023-01-17 $14.99

Comments

1. A Fractious Flirtation - This is a cold hard story about pseudo princesses who have no idea how the real world works. They are wrapped up in their one dimensional debutant society living for the next party. The main characters are drifters who desperately need a cause that anchors them—even if the cause is seditious. These women are dull, one dimensional and totally misdirected as they mete out the days of their lives seeking purpose. I kept waiting for the tale to grip me. It never did.
2023-02-20

Release date: 2021-02-09 $13.99

Comments

1. Good book, but left loose ends - I really enjoyed the history and characters in this book and was absorbed by them. WWII history is one of my favorite time periods to read about. My only reason for holding back a star was the fact there were several loose ends that didn’t get resolved. (Spoiler alert) like what happened to the story line with Paul after Odile leaves? That made no sense to me to have no follow up. And no resolution with her best friend? Also, what was the point of the love interest for Lily if that doesn’t get explored? I was definitely invested in the story and characters so much, that these unresolved issues has left me irritated. So maybe the author accomplished what she set out to do and has kept me engaged after finishing the book.
2021-12-03

Release date: 2022-07-19 Genre:Fiction & Literature $7.99

Comments

1. The secret life of sunflowers - I really enjoyed this book. The characters are well written. I learned more about Vincent Van Gogh and became a fan of his art. As an artist and a woman I love reading stories about strong women and the lives they create from the tragedy in their lives. I highly recommend this book.
2022-10-02

2. Excellent, engrossing read - Loved this book! It delves into the stubborn, caring and dare I say, the early feminism of the sister-in-law, of Vincent Van Gogh. Who struggled with the terrible depression of her husband and brother in-law, the conditions of mental health care during those dark days. Then we spring forward to present day and Emsley, who has fallen into hard times and through the loss of her grandmother, finds strength and redemption in Johanna Bonger’s struggle. Excellent, engrossing read. Do not miss this one.
2022-07-19

Release date: 2022-01-25 $11.99

Comments

1. So relaxing and fun - I love a good historical fiction and this definitely was one. Perfect for a calming read to help distress from the day. All the characters were great, flaws and all. I was dying to know about all the little mysteries and was rooting for a happy ending for them all. If you need a romance palate cleanser or just something to unwind with this is definitely it.
2022-02-22

2. Historical Fiction at its best - The Magnolia Palace is perhaps the finest novel written by Fiona Davis. While I have read all her other books,this one resonated with me perhaps for the subject matter. The weaving together of hjstorical facts within the fictional context makes for compelling reading. In my opinion it is worthy of a Five star rating.
2022-02-05

Release date: 2023-09-26 $15.99

Release date: 2018-09-04 $11.99

Comments

1. Poorly Written and Unfinished - The true story of this couple deserved so much more than it got with this novel. It somehow took a true story of love and survival in one of the darkest times in recent history and turned it into a teen romances novel. I was left with sadness when I finished the book, not from the book itself, but for the story that could have been told. I am truly bewildered that this has good reviews.
2023-01-05

2. Overly romanticized - In the beginning of the book I was intrigued but as the story went I felt as if i was reading something unfinished. Everything going in the story was down played for the sake of a love story. It just felt very unfinished and rushed towards the end to the happy endingDefinitely better holocaust books out there.
2022-01-21

3. AMAZING!!!! - This book was incredible! I have been addicted to it for the past few weeks. It takes me to a completely different and horrifying world, I felt like I was in Lale’s shoes and I was really there experiencing what he did, it was scary. This book is told incredibly well and it is a book a will put on my favorites list and recommend to others. I like reading books about the holocaust, it helps me to reflect on humanity. I plan to read the authors other works very soon! If you are looking for a good book and a new favorite author look no further than here!
2022-01-08

4. Incredibly beautiful account of undying hope - Accounts of the Holocaust are always desperately difficult to read but this story shared the will to survive through a beautiful love story of two desperate survivors sharing their accounts of surviving the death camp of Auschwitz. We must never forget….
2021-07-24

5. Poorly Written/Factually Flawed - I can tolerate bad writing, but minimizing the experience at Auschwitz and making it seem like it wasn’t that bad in excusable. There’s so much glossing over the actual horrors that took place there in an effort to write a Holocaust romance novel. It’s actually quite offensive.
2021-04-03

6. Compelling - The feelings and thoughts expressed by the character, Lale, in the face of unbelievable choices and horrendous circumstances grabbed me right at the beginning. There are many Holocaust stories and books. This one is a top of my list, must read for the realism of one person’s journey through that horror.
2021-02-22

7. Sad, but loved it - It is a tough read in places, but hard to put down. A man taken to Aushwitz death camp schemes his way to a ‘secure’ position tattooing numbers on new arrivals. He uses his elevated position to help others around him. In the terribleness of what is happening in the camp he falls in love. Very well written.
2020-07-12

8. Tatoist of auschwitz - As i sit in quarantine & read Lale & Gita”s story, i have experienced sorrow, inspiration, & joy. The horror & loss of so many innocent lives during the holocaust is something the world should never forget. Thank you for telling their story- i will remember. The inspiration that they survived such horror & were able to love & build a life... may it give others who are struggling hope for tomorrow. May we each be a vessel to help those around us in need in any small or great measure we can within our ability at the moment. Lale”s heart to help others is an example to follow. Blessings to you Debra
2020-05-02

9. Amazing. So amazing. - Where to start with this book...? It is an amazing story. The characters are real and this was their life. It tells of their perseverance and love. It also lets us in on the horrific things the people went through in the camps (if they even survived). This is one book I can say I do plan on reading again, and I never say that about novels. It’s heartbreaking and wonderful at the same time. Hard to read at times because it can be sad but, it’s also impossible to put down.
2020-04-29

10. An Extraordinary Story in Extraordinary Times - I poured over this novel in the course of several days. Having read many books on the subject of The Holocaust and concentration camps, I found the tale of Lale and Gita to be a compelling love story. At times, the events seem to be hard to fathom especially Lale’s bartering for gems, food, and the many fortunate situations that preserved his life. A cat with nine lives, indeed. The screenplay and subsequent book by Heather Morris was a somewhat fictionalized account of an extraordinarily dark time in history. She brought light, love, and humanity to it. Worth the read.
2019-10-28

Release date: 2019-10-08 Genre:Fiction & Literature $9.99

Comments

1. Mesmerizing - This mesmerizing story accurately reflects the s in Appalachia country, especially in the areas of religion, poverty, women’s rights, domestic abuse, the mistreatment of African Americans, and the coal industry. The story of female friendship was heartwarming. I was saddened when I finished this story because I didn’t want it to end!
2022-06-12

2. The Giver of Stars - An authentic telling of life in a small Kentucky town! The protagonists were all women and each had an unforgettable journey of living each day in this environment! They had romances, trials & trails to deal with their buddies supporting them! This is also the telling of how the town dealt with it’s first library & it’s female custodians!
2021-06-18

3. Page Turner!! - I loved the pace, setting & detailed descriptions of the challenges that faced each character & watching their evolutions but most of all, I just fell in love with the main characters in this wonderful novel. I enjoyed being sent back in time and to a place where life was slower and nature was fully appreciated but it also made me thankful of the rights I enjoy as a “modern woman” in present time! This was chosen as a Book Club book and I enthusiastically give up thumbs up!!! What an enjoyable read!!
2020-11-16

4. Rural Kentucky, Feisty Women, Traveling Libraries - Fascinating! - A well crafted story of rural Kentucky built around a little known government program in the s that used small traveling libraries to promote literacy. But that hardly does this novel justice. Because it’s about so much more. Alice Van Cleve is a young, English woman who marries the son of a wealthy American coal mine tycoon, to escape her too-proper life and critical parents. Alice and Bennett settle into her father-in-law’s home in rural Kentucky. Although her home life turns our disappointing, Alice soon volunteers for the fledgling library program where she meets a small group of disparate women who slowly become a tight circle of friends. One is Margery O’Hare - a gutsy mid-thirties single woman who speaks her mind, flaunts the conventions of society, and is even more interesting a character than Alice. There’s also a young woman whose polio disability and overprotective mother have closed down her life. A tomboy eager for time away from an all-male household. And a quiet, dignified black woman who knows much more about libraries than all the others put together. But the story is less about the library program itself than about the lives of women in rural America in the s. The deeply ingrained expectations that shape their lives, the limitations imposed by a conservative society, and the consequences — both good and bad — when women begin to behave more independently. The story is also set against the growing labor movement in America. The Van Cleve mines — with their sub-standard housing, over-priced company store, and unsafe mining conditions — are relentless in their efforts to resist unionization. And like many men with money and power, Mr. Van Cleve expects (demands!) to get his way in all areas of his life. Especially dangerous in someone who so fiercely holds grudges. It’s a suspenseful read, with unexpected twists and turns. And yet, there is also a central love story that is tender and lovely. A well-executed historical novel that will show you a slice of historical America you've probably never seen.
2020-05-20

5. The Giver of Stars - Beautifully written about a slice of little known American history. The decription of eastern rural Kentucky mountains in the ’s made you feel like you were right there with the characters and their pack animals as these women delivered their library books to the rural inhabitants. I couldn’t put it down. An excellent pick for our bookclub!
2020-01-30

6. The Giver of Stars - We’ve come a long ways ladies. The oppressiveness our “foremothers” endured was disgraceful. This book reminds us all of everyone’s equal rights and our right to be treated with human decencies. The characters were beautifully developed, unique and strong in their own right. I want all my grand daughters to read this book and appreciate their own strengths and know there is nothing they cannot do. Sit back, relax and enter Kentucky in the late ’s as an observer. You will not be sorry.
2019-10-26

Release date: 2019-03-19 $11.99

Comments

1. stars - I absolutely loved this book and the style in which it was written. The Alice character was a little too much at times but her perspective was greatly influenced by the trials that she went through with her autistic son. I loved Thomas and Alina. I’ll miss those characters. Just downloaded multiple books by Kelly Rimmer. Five star author.
2023-03-15

2. Absolutely Thought Provoking and Engrossing - This book has absolutely held me to my points end bringing me and then down. The conclusion is an honest bittersweet and it is beautiful to read. I have no complaints with this book, none at all. I’ve learned so much about the history in Poland, and much about the History of the world. And I feel as though this is an important read for everyone, not just for the profound story but for the history intertwined.
2023-02-05

3. A Great Story About Resilience Regret and Closure - My mother and grandparents lived in Europe during WW and this story brought to life some of the terrible tragedies and heroic efforts to salvage human dignity. The author wrote a wonderful story about family tragedy, honor, and personal growth dealing with challenges.
2021-05-18

4. Captivating Story - Well Written Page Turner - I always enjoy historical fiction - this is a well written and incredible story of a strength and love in the face of devastating evil. It makes you put in perspective your own struggles. I always find it beyond comprehension to imagine living through and surviving the horrors of WW II Europe. This book makes you think and reflect on life. It’s not always easy to be reminded of the devastation and what innocent people had to indure - it’s always unimaginable - but important to read. I highly recommend this book.
2020-10-26

5. Amazing!! - This story was so touching! It is one of those books that stick with you and you think about long after you’ve put it down. It’s a great reminder of so many little things in life - the things we take for granted and it’s an eye opening reminder of what our ancestors have done for us and how grateful we should be to them. And the love story - astounding!!!!!! Nicely done, Kelly Rimmer!
2020-10-02

6. Beautiful and Moving ... Authentic autism perspective - I just can’t get this book out of my head. As a parent of a child with autism, I watch Netflix specials, television dramas, etc., and have never quite felt like they got my family situation. I would love to be a part of producing this as a movie. Never once have I connected to a story as I did with this one. Kelly Remmer did her research and managed to weave a story that is so beautiful and moving, I can’t stop recommending it to family and friends. Especially those who have never quite understood our situation. Gorgeous story. Highly recommend. Might even be in my top books of all time.
2020-08-11

7. Such a good read - I loved this book. It is well written and it was hard to put down. It’s heartwarming love stories that keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end. One story from modern day and the realities of life, and one story from the ’s that intertwine with each other. Aside from the love, the stories of WWII are always so sad but so important to remember what people went through during that horrific time and how resilient people can be.
2020-02-02

8. Could not put it down! - A great story that takes place during World War II, a time that is so hard for any of us to imagine. This book does a nice job of unexpectedly reiterating the sacrifice and work that couples should put into a marriage and family too. Something I wasn’t expecting but delightfully surprised.
2019-12-29

9. The Things We Cannot Say - This is the first book I’ve ever reviewed after reading all my life. It is a beautiful story of heart wrenching pain - in a time in space so sad you can hardly bear to experience it through the author’s words. Yet the absolute power of faith based love brings you hope and dries your tears.
2019-12-28

Release date: 2022-12-06 $11.99