The Roots of the Olive Tree: A Novel
by Courtney Miller Santo
The art of aging (6/27/2012)
This book about 5 generations of women, all still living, and their secrets offers the reader wonderful insights into the art of aging. It made me want to celebrate those who grow old gracefully and feel tired for those who carry the weight of the world for so long. It was an easy read following the story of one of the women through the seasons of a year. I most enjoyed the story of Elizabeth. Her secrets and inner thoughts were not revealed until the end. Makes you wonder how you would feel faced with the prospect of immortality.
Wife 22: A Novel
by Melanie Gideon
Quick, easy read (4/11/2012)
First, this was a quick, easy, enjoyable read but rather predictable as the ending is well foreshadowed throughout. I found the book to be humorous as well as sad at times. It was a somewhat simplistic treatment of a not uncommon, serious relationship problem. The ending while satisfying was rather unrealistic. I think it will be received well by middle aged women and will be a good book club choice as it will definitely spark discussion.
The Sisters: A Novel
by Nancy Jensen
Concept vs Mechanics (9/4/2011)
I gave this book a 4 out of 5 because I felt the mechanics of the book were lacking. I found myself needing to refer to the family tree at the beginning of the book. Thank goodness it was there. The theme and concept of the book was interesting especially to women and will definitely be a top pick among women's book clubs. It will make interesting discussion about secrets, sacrifice, forgiveness, and real love. Thoughts that came to mind while reading: Sacrifice without forgiveness and no concept of what love really is. Secrets born of sacrifices made out of love that's never explicitly expressed. Interesting book.
The Art of Saying Goodbye: A Novel
by Ellyn Bache
Shades of... (3/29/2011)
I started this book thinking, "Well, this is just shades of 'Desperate Housewives' minus the comedy." As I moved further into the book it settled in to the author's distinct narrative style. It will definitely be appreciated by the 35 - 55 women set. Except for the sometimes confusing flashbacks the story is well written and I found myself living the neighborhood's struggle with one of their own battling cancer. i enjoyed the dynamics of the various relationships between the women and their husbands. I would recommend this book. It's a fast read.
