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Reviews by Mary L. (Madison, MS)

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Lamp Black, Wolf Grey
by Paula Brackston

Not what I had hoped for (7/9/2015)

Well want do I say. I was compelled to finish the book although I had
correctly guessed the ending. The book plot was VERY predictable. The
protagonist was not sympathetic and read a bit flat. The supernatural
(of which I was very interested in) was predictable and seemed to …more

Cloudland: A Crime Novel
by Joseph Olshan

Average (4/4/2012)

I agree with most the the other reviews. I struggled to complete this novel. I often had to go back to sections to understand what was happening or to remember who the character was. Sorry! It had good potiential.

Three Weeks in December
by Audrey Schulman

Beautiful and captivating book (1/6/2012)

Since many other reviews discuss the plot, I will not rehash it. I must say the the writing is beautiful. Many passages brought tears to my eyes and I had to read them to my husband. The book highlights "mankind' arrogance to our earth and cultures that are foreign to us. I …more

The Look of Love: A Piper Donovan Mystery
by Mary Jane Clark

A quick lite read (12/5/2011)

"The Look of Love" would make a perfect day beach read: Short chapters, fashion, and fun. I was able to figure out the end but it was still an enjoyable read. I will pass the book along, but if I had to purchase the book, I would not spend my money on it.

The Borgia Betrayal: A Poisoner Mystery Novel
by Sara Poole

Interesting Series (7/15/2011)

I enjoyed this book for the history and strong female character. This is the second in a new series. Although, you do not need to read the first, I did go back and picked it up. Some scenes were a bit over the top but hey it is a novel. I would recommend for light, historical reading.

The Tudor Secret: The Elizabeth I Spymaster Chronicles
by C. W. Gortner

Excellent historical mysery (4/20/2011)

I highly recommend this first in a new series set in Tudor England. The book is well written and the characters quickly become real to the reader.

Ever By My Side: A Memoir in Eight ~~Acts~~ Pets
by Dr. Nick Trout

A Must read! (12/28/2010)

I laughed. I cried. How did Dr. Trout see into my life? I enjoyed the human characters but his portraits of the animals toughed my heart deeply. I could go on and on but I can only say “YOU MUST READ THIS BOOK!” As a side note – this book saved my stepdaughter’s dog. He had …more

The Discovery of Jeanne Baret: A Story of Science, the High Seas, and the First Woman to Circumnavigate the Globe
by Glynis Ridley

A wonderful discovery (12/28/2010)

As many other reviewers have stated the story is fascinating, well researched, and contains little information on the real Jeanne Barret. However, I thoroughly enjoyed the book. I too wish there was more information to fill in the blanks of her life but with imagination you …more

Charles Jessold, Considered as a Murderer
by Wesley Stace

Difficult Read (11/10/2010)

I received this book with much excitement. However, I struggled to read it. The plot was slow to develop. The book was written in the manner of speaking of Victorian England. It also had many references to opera and music that although I am fairly versed in this subject, I …more

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Book Jacket — Lessons in Chemistry
by Bonnie Garmus

Praised by *Parade* and *The New York Times Book Review*, this debut features a 1960s scientist turned TV cooking star.

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