Thankfully Pagan Kennedy dedicated several years of her life and her notable skills as a researcher and journalist to write this amazing non-fiction work titled, The Secret History of the Rape Kit. It is without question a compelling account of, not only the history of the …more rape kit, but perhaps more importantly, reveals the extent to which sexism and misogyny impacted the social justice system of the '70's and 80's. More specifically it documents how police departments and American society failed female victims who experienced sexual assault, abuse and rape. Kennedy describes the rape kit as the "work of audacious genius" and much of the book focuses on finding and honoring this genius, Martha "Marty" Goddard. It seems highly improbable that without the extensive efforts of Pagan Kennedy to uncover the facts about Goddard's work, the truth about Goddard and the rape kit's origin would ever have been acknowledged. This book is richly layered with topics that cross genres, from mystery, biography, social commentary to crime story. Pagan Kennedy's book is profoundly moving and inspirational. By honoring Marty Goddard, the author honors all women and their rights to live in a society that protects and defends them from sexual assault and dehumanization. By demystifying the true creator of the rape kit, Kennedy gives us hope that a better and more just legal system and society may prevail. (less)

In the novel, Leaving, themes of love, loss, life, death, marriage and parenting weave together in the unfolding story of the main characters Warren and Sarah. There is ongoing tension for these star-crossed lovers as the juxtaposition of romantic love and parental love …more compete.
At the beginning of the novel I found the characters uni-dimensional and felt emotionally detached from their lives, but as the novel evolved so did character development and plot complexity. Warren and Sarah meet again after two decades at the opera. This fact foreshadows their fate and the dramatic denouement of their love affair. Both Warren and Sarah seek meaningful relationships with their daughters, Kate and Meg respectively. Tragically both daughters seem detached and inaccessible though Meg seems closer to her mother after the birth of her third child.
This novel tackles life's deepest experiences and uniquely focuses on the passion of love in later life. I appreciated Robinson's craft as it evolved and her attention to adult parental relationships. It is a novel I would recommend for friends and would lead to provocative book club discussions. (less)

At times, when reading this novel, Banyan Moon by Thao Thai, you think the story is primarily focused on the setting, specifically Banyan House. The home originally acquired by Minh becomes a sanctuary for not only herself but also her daughter Huong and lastly her grand …more daughter Ann. Chapters alternate narration among the three generations of women, each one revealing more and more details about their pasts and the complexities of their relationships.
I enjoyed reading this novel, first set in Vietnam and then in the swamplands of the Florida coast, largely due to the depth of the characters who were imperfect individuals while expansive in their interests and life choices.
Though female characters largely dominate this novel, the development of male characters should not be minimized. Thao Thai reveals the significance of male relationships in the lives of Minh, Houng and Ann without stereotype or diminishment. The blend of a compelling setting, intensive plot development and endearing dynamic characters makes this novel well worth reading and discussing with others. (less)

Spencer Quinn's novel is a true page turner. The main character is an inspiring heroine who is a vibrant and commanding spirit. Though, initially in the novel, Mrs. Plansky appears to be a vulnerable and scatter brained older woman, over time her strength and self …more determination emerge with a gusto. She ultimately serves as an antidote to stereotypes ascribed to female septuagenarians. Rather than passively awaiting life's end, Mrs. Plansky charges forward with heartwarming strength, both mentally and physically. A wonderful role model for people of all ages. This book would be a fun read for those who enjoy adventure stories and appreciate plot twists and turns. There is a flavor of a classier Columbo at work in solving challenges that makes this novel a treat to read. A good book to take on vacation. Her last name is an appropriate play on words. (less)