"Follow the Stars Home" is a compelling saga of the first voyage down the Mississippi by a steam-powered ship. The danger, challenges, and successes of this maiden voyage are brought vividly to life, as told by Mrs. Roosevelt, wife of the captain of the ship. Among the …more highlights of the story are the birth of Mrs. Roosevelt's son onboard, and the dangerous trip through the rapids of the river. Throughout the events of the voyage, we get to know the characters and root for their success. The author has a good feel for period detail and creates a compelling narrative of this historic trip.

I would recommend this novel for book club members who enjoy well-crafted historical fiction. (less)

"Peach Blossom Spring" spans three countries and several generations of a Chinese family with verve and warmth. I found the characters believable and compelling. The book begins around the time of the Japanese invasion of China and deftly follows the travails of the Dao …more family through their travels and search for refuge.

Threaded through the tumultuous plot is the idea of the importance of family members sharing their stories. The Dao family rely on a beautiful illustrated scroll to aid their storytelling and help them remember who they are.

Peach Blossom Spring is the story of one family that illustrates the history of modern China. I found it both sweeping in scope and powerful in its storytelling. (less)

This novel paints a vivid portrait of actress Katherine O'Dell, lovingly drawn by her daughter Norah. As Norah recalls her mother's life and researches the past, we gradually learn the harsh truths concealed by her mother's romanticizing of her life's events.

I was …more fascinated by the story of Katherine O'Dell, which is brilliantly told by author Ann Enright. The book is a superb character study filled with a host of interesting characters who surround our heroine. Dublin itself, the main backdrop for the story, is brought colorfully to life by Enright's vivid descriptions.

I recommend this book for book clubs. Enright's brilliant character study, vivid descriptions, and subtle unfolding of the plot provide rich material for a good discussion. The book overall provides an engrossing and satisfying reading experience. (less)

In 'D-Day Girls,' author Sarah Rose tells the forgotten story of women spies whose work was vital to winning World War II. These brave women, serving behind enemy lines in France, organized resistance networks, blew up German supply trains, gathered critical intelligence, …more and risked their lives every day.

Rose's account is well-researched and vivid, especially in the section on the D-Day invasion and the important role of these women in aiding the Allies' efforts. She also documents the rampant sexism that the female spies faced, in both England and France. The sexism persisted after the war, which meant the women often did not receive the recognition they deserved for their heroic acts.'D-Day Girls' tells the thrilling story of these forgotten heroes. (less)