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Reviews by Maryanne

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A Lonely Death: An Inspector Ian Rutledge Mystery
by Charles Todd

A Lonely Death (11/23/2010)

The Ian Rutledge detective series never disappoints. In this latest installment, the main character continues to evolve. As the voice in his head moves further into the background, Ian Rutledge becomes an even more sympathetic, human character. I always look forward to a …more

The Map of True Places
by Brunonia Barry

Map of True Places (5/19/2010)

I enjoyed this book. It's a fast, fairly light read with interesting characters. The literary connections, the setting of Salem, MA, and the details related to caring for an ailing parent add to the appeal of the book. I had no expectations (not having The Lace Reader) when …more

The Bricklayer: A Novel
by Noah Boyd

The Bricklayer by Noah Boyle (12/28/2009)

Steve Vail (aka the Bricklayer) joins the ranks of Jack Reacher, Harry Bosch, and Joe Pike. I thoroughly enjoyed this newest entry in the thriller fiction genre. It's a fast-paced, entertaining read. I hope this is the beginning of a series.

The Lieutenant
by Kate Grenville

The Lieutenant by Kate Grenville (9/23/2009)

This book explores the huge themes of friendship, the conflict between cultures, and courage. As one man discovers himself he finds that he has it within him to follow his conscience no matter what the cost. All intertwined with the magic of language, mathematics, and …more

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo
by Stieg Larsson

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (9/27/2008)

After several false starts, I eventually managed to get past the very slow beginning. (I trusted there had to be a reason why this book is a best-seller all over Europe.) Once I'd reached the halfway point, it was almost impossible to put this book down. I'll be waiting …more

Madapple
by Christina Meldrum

Interesting, but... (4/8/2008)

Although Madapple is a compelling read, I just can’t give it more than a 3 rating. Parts of it are beautifully written. The research is extensive and impressive. The structure of the book adds to its appeal – present day court scenes alternated with past-tense narrative. …more

A Golden Age
by Tahmima Anam

A Golden Age by Tahmima Anam (2/7/2008)

I didn't expect to like this book nearly as much as I did. Tahmima Anam has created a main character that one cannot help but care for; Rehana has stayed with me since I finished reading the book several days ago. The setting of the book, the Bangladesh War of Independence, …more

BookBrowse Book Club

Daughters of Shandong
by Eve J. Chung

Based on the author’s family story, comes an extraordinary novel about a mother and her daughters’ escape from Taiwan.

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The Lilac People
by Milo Todd

For fans of All the Light We Cannot See, a poignant tale of a trans man’s survival in Nazi Germany and postwar Berlin.

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Lessons in Chemistry
by Bonnie Garmus

Praised by Parade and The New York Times Book Review, this debut features a 1960s scientist turned TV cooking star.

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