This non fiction account of a scandalous divorce in the 1860s reads like a novel. We learn much about societal norms, gender inequality, class and the court system of the time. Truth can be stranger than fiction and this story must have been the height of gossip in the upper middle class parlors of old New York. Well written, I would highly recommend.

A 'what if Germany took over England without World War II' dystopian novel sounds like it should be a great book. For me the premise was good, but the execution was average and a bit disjointed. I feel like too much time was spent on the build up, but the last quarter of the book everything just happened, all at once rapid fire. This was an average read, not the great novel it had had potential to be.

Friendship Bread is a heartwarming tale of friendship. Its amazing that something as simple as sharing bread could set forth a chain of events that changed a town and the people in it. A typical feel good read, the author doesn't delve too deeply into any characters story, keeping it a good story with average writing. I have to say though, I have been craving Friendship Bread all week. The book includes recipes that I can't wait to try with kids.

I enjoyed 'An Amish Christmas' by Cynthia Keller for what it was, a candy coated sugary Christmas story. A typical seasonal read this is a feel good story with little depth. A quick read with some interesting insights on the Amish it was entertaining. If you are looking for a light formula read without a lot of substance; this will fit the bill.

This book had me hooked right from the first page. The characters were well developed and I couldn't wait to find out what their stories were. Maggie O'Farrell is a great story writer that lulls the reader in and then gives them something totally unexpected. A book about two women whose stories unfold to a dramatic end. Book Clubs will enjoy delving into the different relationships and situations that occur in this book. A great read!

My first thought while reading this book was that it would make a GREAT book club pick. There are so many different points that would make for great discussion. What would you do in each of the characters shoes? I thought the characters were well developed, but I was left wanting more. I feel as if it could have been a little longer exploring in more detail the feelings of not only the two Mrs. Oades, but those of Henry. Overall a good read.

Carolyn Wall does a fabulous job with her debut novel, Sweeping Up Glass. I could not put this book down and couldn't wait to get out of work to read more. The characters were so clearly described that I wish we could have learned some of their stories as well. This book could have been far longer because there are so many side stories that remain a mystery. Carolyn could write an entire new novel from Ida's prospective, there are so many questions to answer about her past. It would be a great book for book groups because there are so many different angles and points of view to discuss.

Will North's vivid descriptions of Bocastle, England and it's inhabitants made me feel as if I were the proverbial fly on the wall, watching the story unfold before me. Although it was a great story, there were some awkward aspects for me. The use of witchcraft didn't really feel quite right; it felt like a case of too little or too much to belong. There is also a relationship with a main character's ex-father in law which was unnecessary because she is such a strong woman on her own. Past lives, self discovery and a love story build up to a true life catastrophy and makes for an enjoyable read despite it's minor flaws.