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Reviews by Loren B. (Appleton, WI)

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A Lonely Death
A Lonely Death: An Inspector Ian Rutledge Mystery
by Charles Todd
wonderful historical mystery (10/31/2010)
I have read all the previous novels in the Ian Rutledge series and they have all been not only well-developed mysteries but also fascinating insights into the effects of war on the human character. This latest novel was no exception and I highly recommend it.

While this novel, as all the others, can be enjoyed on its on merit, I found that starting with the first in the series is helpful.
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives
The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives: A Novel
by Lola Shoneyin
unique characters (6/3/2010)
As I read this novel and got to know each unique character I was able to empathize with each of them and their life situations that had brought them to their present state. A wonderful book!
Pearl of China
Pearl of China: A Novel
by Anchee Min
Insider's view of China (1/28/2010)
This novel was not only a fictional biography of Pearl Buck's life but the author's actual insider's view of China as it approached and went through the red revolution.

The characters were believable and the story interesting, but to me the best part was the fascinating "behind the scenes" look at the coming changes to China.
The Book of Illumination
The Book of Illumination: A Novel from the Ghost Files
by Mary Ann Winkowski
Light weight (9/28/2009)
I would say that this novel read like a typical "cozy" but that would be giving a well-written "cozy" a bad name.

When I read the synopsis I thought this would be an interesting mix of historical mystery/ghost story. It wasn't. The plot was drawn out with way too much of the main character's "in her mind" romance with her ex-boyfriend and not enough concentration on what could have been a fascinating story.
Valeria's Last Stand
Valeria's Last Stand
by Marc Fitten
light-hearted comedy (2/22/2009)
I don't know if this novel was meant to be serious or not, but I found it to be a fun,light-hearted comedy. The message I got was watch out for the senior set - there's life in us yet!
Findings
Findings: Faye Longchamp Mysteries, No. 4
by Mary Anna Evans
Archeological mystery (5/10/2008)
Findings is the fourth mystery featuring archeologist Faye Longchamp. I recommend reading the first three novels before reading the fourth as there is a lot of character development with each succeeding book.

Each of these novels is not only a very well written character-driven mystery but also is filled with fascinating archaeological and historical information.

I highly recommend Findings as well as the first three novels.
Broken Colors
Broken Colors
by Michele Zackheim
artistic insight (1/29/2008)
This was a wonderfully written novel with good characterization and descriptions. I enjoyed it for the insight into how an artist feels and creates. I gave it four instead of five stars because of the romantic elements. (I'm not very fond of romances.)
The View from Mount Joy
The View from Mount Joy: A Novel
by Lorna Landvik
Visit with old friends (9/20/2007)
This is one of those books that make you forget that you're reading. It's more like a visit from people you've known a long time who have come back to tell you how life's been going for them.
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