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Reviews by Nikki M. (Fort Wayne, IN)

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The Last List of Miss Judith Kratt: A Novel
by Andrea Bobotis

Don't miss this Southern story! (7/13/2019)

This was classic Southern fiction at its best! Quirky characters, interesting plotline, and great writing. I loved the device of using objects to propel the story forward. Well done!

The Guest Book
by Sarah Blake

A bit disappointing... (5/8/2019)

I was excited to receive an early access copy of this one, but it just didn't quite live up to the hype for me. I think sometimes you anticipate a great book, and then your expectations are unrealistically high. That usually leads to disappointment, which is what happened in this case.

Other reviewers loved it, so take my opinion with a grain of salt!

The Lost Man
by Jane Harper

Good Aussie Mystery (12/6/2018)

The setting of "The Lost Man" plays a key role in the plot of this mystery. A very lonely, stark desolate Australian landscape matched the characters lives and actions. I felt the entire novel had a sense of sadness and loneliness. I did not see the surprise ending coming!

Our House
by Louise Candlish

Creepy! (6/29/2018)

I did whip through this one quickly, but I found it a bit predictable. I could see the twist coming a mile away. Worth a read, maybe on a beach!

Force of Nature: Aaron Falk Mystery #2
by Jane Harper

Above-average suspense! (11/2/2017)

This novel had good strong characterization and an interesting Australian setting. I enjoyed the author's sophomore effort as much as I did the first, "The Dry", also set in Australia. I will keep an eye out for future reads from Jane Harper!

Love and Other Consolation Prizes: A Novel
by Jamie Ford

Brings history to life! (7/19/2017)

I really enjoyed this novel based in 1909 Seattle. You could really envision all of the events as if on a movie screen in front of you. I would recommend you read the book BEFORE it gets made into a movie! Excellent.

The Essex Serpent
by Sarah Perry

Seriously good read! (3/16/2017)

I can see why this has so much buzz across the pond. I am sure it will see much success here upon its release. The characters were amazingly realistic and fleshed out. Pick this one up and give it a few pages to pull you in, you won't regret it!

The Girl Before
by JP Delaney

Another thriller with "girl" in the title! (12/8/2016)

I have to say that I didn't care for this thriller very much. The characters were not likeable, and some of the scenes were quite disturbing. I almost felt claustrophobic during most of the novel. Unfortunately, I would not recommend.

This Must Be the Place: A novel
by Maggie O'Farrell

Don't miss this one! (8/16/2016)

"This Must Be the Place" by Maggie O'Farrell can only be described as a perfect novel. I am in awe of O'Farrell's ability to create such a masterful story. It is beautifully constructed, with characters you really come to know and care about. Best book I've read in some time...

Lady Cop Makes Trouble: Girl Waits with Gun #2
by Amy Stewart

Love these characters! (6/15/2016)

I sure hope that Amy Stewart is busy writing away with more Constance Kopp adventures. What a fun, interesting book that is a fantastic follow-up to the first book, "Girl Waits With Gun". The characters are all so interesting and fleshed-out. I look forward to her next in the (hopeful!) series... (No pressure, Ms. Stewart!)

The Forgetting Time
by Sharon Guskin

Five glorious stars! (12/19/2015)

This novel was fascinating, thought-provoking, page-turning magic. It has been a very long time since a novel has touched me so deeply. Beautifully done!

The Shore: A Novel
by Sara Taylor

Amazing novel via interlinked short stories! (6/19/2015)

This is a wonderful, non-linear read that takes you on quite a journey. Beautiful writing that requires (& deserves) your full attention. Recommended!

The Book of Speculation
by Erika Swyler

Great beginning, disappointing ending... (4/14/2015)

The beginning of the book drew me in right away. Both storylines were fascinating. As the story progressed, and tarot cards/mysticism became more prevalent, I began to lose interest. The ending was a bit too far-fetched for me.

The Weight of Blood
by Laura McHugh

Debut author? No way! (2/28/2014)

This page-turning story set in the Ozarks reads like a seasoned author wrote it. I can't wait until discussion on this one opens up. Lots to talk about! Great read!

The Housemaid's Daughter
by Barbara Mutch

Underwhelmed... (11/20/2013)

While "The Housemaid's Daughter" was an enjoyable enough read, I feel that I've read this same story many times before. It was a little too predictable for me.

The Mouse-Proof Kitchen
by Saira Shah

Heartbreakingly beautiful.... (7/29/2013)

This was much harder to read than I thought it would be. Very tough subject matter, especially if you know someone in a similar situation. I would recommend, but be prepared to shed a few tears...

Ordinary Grace
by William Kent Krueger

Don't miss this one! (5/11/2013)

There was nothing ordinary about the grace with which this book was written. I would've happily continued reading as many pages as William Kent Krueger had written. It will be a while before another book measures up to this one. Don't miss it!

Fever
by Mary Beth Keane

Poor Typhoid Mary! (3/5/2013)

I found this historical fiction fascinating, illuminating one of history's "infamous" characters, "Typhoid Mary". I wavered between feeling so sorry for Mary to being angry at her! This was all such new science when they discovered Mary was a healthy "carrier" of typhoid. I'm glad the author didn't get too bogged down in the science, and instead focused on the lives of Mary and those connected to her. Very interesting and thought-provoking, too!

The Edge of the Earth
by Christina Schwarz

Something is missing... (10/25/2012)

This was a quick read and, while parts were very interesting, I just wasn't quite vested in the characters or the story. Perhaps it was all of the "scientific research" of ocean life that was included, but I felt the author's research was over-arching to the story.

The Light Between Oceans: A Novel
by Margot L. Stedman

Perfect novel--not to be missed! (7/21/2012)

This novel had it all--characters you felt you knew and cared about, beautiful writing, compelling story! Very satisfying read--highly recommended...

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