Father of Lions: One Man's Remarkable Quest to Save the Mosul Zoo
by Louise Callaghan
More then a book about a zoo (11/24/2019)
This is by far one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. It’s so much more than a book about a man and his zoo. I learned so much about the occupation of Mosul by Isis, the relationship between Sunni and Shia, the impotency of the Iraqi military and the great, many year suffering of the residents of Mosul. I cried so many times while reading and the last few chapters left me gasping for breath as I worried through the fate of the animals and the doctor determined to save them. The book is a true story but reads like fiction as so much that happened was unbelievable. Well researched, well written I will recommend this book to anyone how will listen!
The Girl in White Gloves: A Novel of Grace Kelly
by Kerri Maher
More fiction than history (11/4/2019)
Historical fiction centering around strong women is my guilty pleasure so I was eager to read this book about Grace Kelly. I was so disappointed. The author admits this book is more fiction than most; sometimes that happens when recreating a life. But Kelly's affairs which seemed fairly provocative in this book were mostly fictional since no one really knows what happened between Kelly and her boyfriends. Most discouraging for me, however, were the letters in the book between Grace and Rainier that were totally made up! This was most glaring because the letters were central to her future disappointment in her marriage. I also found this Grace Kelly to be whiny and unhappy with her life and I really have no idea if this is really the way she was in real life. I wouldn't recommend this book
Remembrance
by Rita Woods
Mystical and Magical (10/21/2019)
It is intriguing to me that so many novels involving African American slaves contain some sort of magic. Slaves that can shape time and space, can see the future, can talk to and conjure up the spirits. I have always wondered if the magic is a way of dealing with the extreme oppression, of controlling and confusing the Whites who perpetuate the evil, if that makes it real. Remembrance is the best example of this magic that I've ever read. It's the story of four women: Abigail, the creator, Margot, Winter and Gaelle, women who have experienced slavery and evil either directly or indirectly. It's the story of a place, Remembrance, a place of sanctuary along the road to freedom that ultimately cannot escape the horrors of the power of the "blancs".
I fell in love with these women and that place, their strength, their fortitude, their love. The story is ultimately a warning. We have not overcome racism but there are those ready to protect the oppressed at all cost. This a story everyone should read.
Golden Child
by Claire Adam
Family Tragedy (10/4/2018)
Peter is a golden child; he's intelligent, well behaved. He's the perfect child. His twin brother is brain damaged, considered retarded; a frustration for his father. This story is not so much the story of a boy that disappears but of a family, not so different than most families. It's a family that loves and struggles and, at times, resents each other. But then, the resentment takes a tragic turn. The family endures difficulties; a tragic car accident, a murder, betrayal and, finally, the disappearance of their frustrating child. In the end, they pull through with hope carried by their golden child. I liked this book, though at times it was hard to identify with the family, mostly I think because of cultural differences.
Anatomy of a Miracle
by Jonathan Miles
Miracle or not? (1/7/2018)
This is a very unique book. It's written as an account of a true story yet it's a novel and upon googling Cameron Harris, the recipient of the so called miracle it's clear it's not a true story or at least not a story of Mr. Harris. It reads like a TV expose' viewed over several weeks that explores not only Cameron's miracle, his life, and frailties but also explores in depth the same frailties in every character from his sister, to his doctor to the religious figures who investigate the miracle. Religion battles medicine and throughout the novel hints at something sinister ahead. Perhaps Cameron has made the whole thing up. But the reality is much less sinister to this day and age but has dire consequences for Cameron's credibility anyway. It's a fabulous read and leaves the reader to draw their own conclusions about the true anatomy of a miracle
The Secret Language of Stones: A Daughters of La Lune Novel
by M. J. Rose
Frustrating (4/18/2016)
I really wanted to like this book. I was intrigued by the premise; a jeweler has the unique ability to create talismans to ease the suffering of mothers who have lost sons during a difficult war. At times the book stayed true to this premise and I enjoyed reading the story. But too many times the author strayed and the story read more like a romance novel. I grew frustrated with Opaline's indecisiveness and, for me, it was a distraction. The ending was contrived and predictable and the suspense that the author tried to achieve was not there; by the end I had lost interest. This book might be more enjoyable for those interested in the occult but, for me, it just didn't work.
The Sound of Gravel: A Memoir
by Ruth Wariner
A Disturbing Memoir (11/18/2015)
The Sound of Gravel is a difficult book to read. It reads as fiction yet it's disturbing to realize that this was someone's life. It's disturbing to learn that there are men who use "religion" and power to marry and suppress several women, sire dozens of children, force them all into extreme poverty to say nothing of the rampant sexual abuse of their daughters at young ages. These men are not only polygamists, they are predators. Ms. Wariner is wonderfully brave not only for escaping that horrible life and raising her sisters but for having the courage to write her story. This book will be a great book club book because it will incite many lively and emotional discussions
The Incarnations: A Novel
by Susan Barker
Wonderful concept (8/27/2015)
I was very excited to read this book. I was fascinated by the idea of reincarnation and being unaware of former lives until someone brings awareness of those lives through disturbing means. The book is beautifully written the author adds so much color to her writing through her descriptions of different periods in Chinese history. There were two things about this book that were disturbing. I believe that this same story could have been told without all of the homosexuality. It didn't offend me; it just seemed so unnecessary especially since most of it was violent and loveless. The other disturbing thing was the ugly picture of China told through the different stories. It left me feeling like the author has very little love for China especially Bejing. There is a great twist at the end of the book, though, and I am glad I read it through until the end.
The Well
by Catherine Chanter
A Sign of Our Times (2/8/2015)
There are things that happen in the world; natural disasters, terrorism, deadly diseases, e.g. These things very often lead to mass hysteria, create religious fanatics, foster suspicion between neighbors and family. People often comment how they personally would never react in negative ways. The Well is the story of a devastating drought. In the amidst of this drought lies The Well, a place of abundance and rain and beauty. This oasis eventually has dire consequences for those that live and love within it. The Well is the best kind of science fiction. It dances on the edge of reality. Could something like this happen in the world of today, the world some worry we are slowly destroying and if so, how would we act? Excellent
The Last Good Paradise
by Tatjana Soli
Paradise Lost (11/1/2014)
I wanted to like this book, I really did. Admittedly, there are good pieces; some of the writing is gorgeous, the food descriptions are mouth watering, though few and far between. I was looking forward to a book filled with quirky characters. What I found were selfish, self indulgent, whinny people. Do I stay or go; do I love or hate, do I stand up for the right or stand back and do nothing. ugh. Sometimes it made my head spin. Not one character was likable. I also questioned the inclusion of the ill effects of nuclear testing, especially by the French. It seemed like an after thought and not really the best forum. If the author's intention was to inspire outrage in nuclear testing, in my opinion, she fell short and it just underlined the fickleness of her characters. I am not really sure who this book will appeal to, perhaps Tatjana Soli fans.
Girl on the Golden Coin: A Novel of Frances Stuart
by Marci Jefferson
More Fiction than History (1/6/2014)
I love historical fiction. What is more fun than reading about those scoundrel English kings! I do require a few things, however, in my fiction based on history. First, it needs to be historically accurate. Every piece of fiction has fictional characters but the majority should be real and the timeline should be as close to accurate as possible. Second, I need some background so I am not constantly looking up personnel on wiki. And please, no background from conversations between people that's not realistic. I don't mind some narrative. Lastly, I want to be so interested in the facts and the story that I am prompted to read more. This story of Frances Stuart had most of the requirements; true characters, a true timeline, a piece of history that I had never encountered before, a character I had never read about before. My one complaint was not enough background and too much conversation. But overall, an enjoyable read about lesser known English royalty
Safe with Me
by Amy Hatvany
Great Family Drama (11/13/2013)
I loved this book. It's a short read, the language isn't fancy. But the story of two mothers struggling to come to grips with their circumstances is very profound. As a mother, especially the mother of a daughter, I found myself attempting to put myself in the place of these women. Its was very difficult and I found myself on the verge of tears as I read. I don't know if I could cope with the facts of either woman's life and I am not sure which would be more difficult; losing a child or living a life of fear. This is a great book for women struggling with abuse. I give this book a good instead of excellent because I felt the ending was unsatisfactory but I did enjoy the book overall
Song of the Spirits: In the Land of the Long White Cloud saga
by Sarah Lark
A Big Disappointment (7/22/2013)
I must admit I had lofty expectations for this novel. I was hoping for another great family saga like The Thornbirds or Fall of the Giants considering that this is a very, very big book. I have found that that usually means either I am enthralled with the story and characters and don't want it to end or the book just goes on forever. Unfortunately, this book was more of the latter. The book reads more like a romance novel especially the first part and I found myself plodding through without much enjoyment. The characters and mostly unappealing, frustrating at times and just plain unbelievable at others. The author did try to create suspense and there were moments when this succeeded. But, like most romance novels, it was difficult to get too caught up in the suspense as I pretty much knew everything would work out for all of the "good guys" in the end. Given the length of this book, I was hoping to learn a lot about New Zealand and, especially the Maori people but the information was limited and really just made me hunger for more. Truly it could have been set anywhere, anyplace with sheep farmers, miners and indigenous people. I would only recommend this book to anyone looking for a very long, feel good story with some suspense thrown in for good measure.
The Woman at the Light: A Novel
by Joanna Brady
Unique Setting (6/12/2012)
The story of The Woman at the Light is not a new story. Its the story of a strong woman who survives a life filled with loss and struggles but who is victorious in the end. Its the story of a woman who loves a man, a love that is despised by society. Its a story of a woman who, in the end, is able to overcome everything and everyone to live out her life with this man. Its not a new story and, at times, a little farfetched. The trust she puts in her children to keep her secrets is one example. But the setting is unusual. Its set in Key West and on an island with a lighthouse. I learned a great deal about Key West and its history which, to me, is the essence of historical fiction. The writing was okay and the dialogue a little over the top but all in all a good read
The Good Father: A Novel
by Noah Hawley
A Powerful Book for every Parent (12/3/2011)
Whenever I hear a story of senseless killing, my first thought is always for the victims. But the thought that follows close behind is a thought about the parents. Not just the parent of the victims but also the parent of the killer especially if it’s a young person. I always wonder how I would react. Would I go over every detail of my child’s life to figure out how that child had come to such a bad place? For this reason, this book really spoke to my heart. The father in this book does exactly that. I understood his need to obsessively read details of the lives of murders, from Sirhan Sirhan to John Hinckley. I understood his need, as a doctor, to methodically work through the puzzle of his child’s life. I understood the pain in wondering where a parent goes wrong in their child’s life; what specific incident leads a child to murder. It’s a powerful struggle that allows him to go on. Beautifully written; when it was over I cried and hugged my children. This book is a great read for anyone but a must for every parent.
Tides of War: A Novel
by Stella Tillyard
Unique Novel of War (10/29/2011)
I am a big fan of historical fiction. Yet, although I love the characters and the history, I have to admit that the writing itself sometimes leaves something to be desired and the dialogue is often confusing and stilted. I imagine its difficult to create interesting conversations for people long dead from times long ago. This book about England and Spain during the time of the Peninsular War is an exception. While there are intriguing historical figures and lots of rich history, the writing is gorgeous. Ms. Tillyard allows us to feel the pain of war and the frustrations of separation of loved ones without all the blood and gore typical of war novels. I felt the horrors soldiers experienced and the loneliness and boredom of those left behind. The author's description of a bull fight was particularly haunting; I was able to experience both the pride and joy of the Spaniards as well as the nausea and disgust of the English soldier. I truly feel that this is a book for everyone and every book club.
The Borgia Betrayal: A Poisoner Mystery Novel
by Sara Poole
Intriguing Historical Fiction (6/9/2011)
Intriguing and ruthless characters, compelling plot twists and turns, and a healthy dose of gossip about people long dead. These are the elements, along with historical facts, that, to me, make for great historical fiction. Sara Poole's new book has plenty of these and more. Well written, well researched, this book kept me interested until the end. There are many references to past occurences that left me wondering if the end would provide explanations. It wasn't until I did some research that I discovered that this book is a follow up to the book Poison. It isn't necessary to read that book first but it would help to fully explain the actions of the main character and her past relationships. This is a book that should be read by anyone who enjoys historical fiction as much as I enjoy it.
The Tudor Secret: The Elizabeth I Spymaster Chronicles
by C. W. Gortner
The Tudor Secret (3/12/2011)
I must admit at the beginning of this review to be not only a lover of historical fiction but a fanatic fan of Henry VIII and all the nonsense and intrigue that surrounded him and his descendants. I read whatever I can get my hands on, some good, some great, some bad and some horrendous. The period has been written and rewritten about by so many authors that its difficult to find something that brings a fresh viewpoint. The Tudor Secret does just that; its fun, refreshing and entertaining. Though there has always been speculation that there were other Tudor family members, this book brings it to the forefront in an interesting way. Anyone that loves the Tudors and all the fun that finds them will love this book
The Tower, the Zoo, and the Tortoise: A Novel
by Julia Stuart
fun, fun, fun! (3/9/2011)
This was the most fun reading a book that I have had in awhile. Delightful, quirky characters and silly animals...I loved them all. I laughed and giggled through the whole thing
The Discovery of Jeanne Baret: A Story of Science, the High Seas, and the First Woman to Circumnavigate the Globe
by Glynis Ridley
Great Historical Account (12/31/2010)
It wouldn't be correct to call Glynis Ridley's account of the1766 French expedition of the ships Etoile and Boudeuse a biography of Jeanne Baret. I wanted to read this book because I am fascinated by the lives of unique and unknown historical figures. It isn't what I expected; in fact, it is less biographical in relation to Baret than her mentor, Philibert Commerson. This is not a fault of the author; there is very little known about Baret. It is, however, a well researched account of the voyage with extensive botanical records, descriptions of fauna and flora of the regions encountered during the voyage, geography of places such as the Magellan Strait, and a detailed history of Paris and other regions important to the characters involved in this story. This book will be of interest to history buffs and those interested in botany and geography. To call it a biography of Jeanne Baret, however, is a little misleading.
Power Reviewer
