I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Every time I had a few spare minutes I wanted to get back to it. I would ordinarily not choose a book with a paranormal subplot, but Sybil's experiences were riveting. The elegant writing style, the rich language, and the masterful character development all added to the pleasure of reading. The wonderfully vivid visual imagery brought both people and places to life. This novel is a winner on all levels!

We are all familiar with the sinking of the Titanic. This novel takes us beyond the tragedy of April 14, 1912 to the Senate hearings that followed , and the effects these events had on the survivors. Lots of historical details are woven in, such as the inclusion of "the unsinkable Molly Brown." Another intertwining storyline follows two independent young women, one a survivor, trying to make their own way in the man's world of 1912.
Because of the writing style, I would consider this novel "light fiction", even though the subject matter is serious. I cannot rate it a 5 because it lacks the richness of language great novels have. Nonetheless, it is an enjoyable read.

Dr. Trout's memoir will be appreciated most by dog lovers. Parts of the book will make you laugh out loud; other parts will bring you to tears. I enjoyed following Trout's relationship with his father, their bond forged by their mutual love of dogs. His writing style is easy and flowing, full of self-deprecating humor.

The back cover says this is "an irresistible page-turner of forbidden love on the wild plains of East Africa." This novel is FAR more than a love story! (The love story doesn't begin until page 330!) I was drawn in after reading three pages. The descriptions of the Maasai, the wildlife, and the Kihara Gorge area all contributed to a strong sense of place. The multi-layered plot kept my interest throughout. I agree that is is "an irresistible page turner."

Soon after his arrival at Oxford in 1583, former monk Giordano Bruno begins wondering whom he can really trust. This sense of unease permeates the novel, keeping the reader guessing along with Bruno as he attempts to identify who is responsible for the sudden deaths of several Oxford fellows. The further you read, the faster you want to turn the pages. One of my favorite lines is "You played your part very well, Bruno, I never suspected you. But then you never suspected me, did you?"

Conroy's vivid descriptions and imagery really bring Charleston to life, the place he calls "the most beautiful streets in America." The setting is the book's strongest element. I was disappointed by many of the characters who struck me as either stereotypes or caricatures. The bond Leo and his friends have after twenty years is enviable, but the the entire group faced so much drama that the novel was reminiscent of a soap opera.