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Reviews by Kristine L. (The Woodlands, TX)

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Live by Night
by Dennis Lehane

Loving the Bad Guy (8/24/2012)

I really enjoyed reading this book. Not only did I enjoy the historical time period of Boston during the 1920's but I enjoyed the theme's of family - Father and Son, Good and Evil, and a bit of romance too. I honestly think it is a gift to be able to write a novel about a gangster kid and have the reader actually feel empathy and compassion for the "bad guy". An enjoyable read....Thank you!

The Queen's Lover: A Novel
by Francine du Plessix Gray

A disappointment (6/1/2012)

I am always sad when I need to write a tough review as I assume the book was the love of the author's life. I felt as though the book was trying to do a bit too much and possibly attempted to capitalize on Marie Antoinette when really the author wished to the tell the story only of Fersen. It is true that this period of history is always exciting to read in a historical fiction context as well as non fiction so I've given the review an average rating. I suspect those seeking details about the Queen will be disappointed.

The Healing: A Novel
by Jonathan Odell

The Healing (1/11/2012)

I finished this book very late last night. I honestly believe it is one of the best books I have ever read. The themes are so multi-dimensional - ranging from historical fiction, the power of generations, mother-daughter themes, social inequality, spiritual connection, and the truly amazing gift of womanhood. I enjoyed this book and suspect it will be a book shared in classrooms and book clubs through the years. bravo!

Wayward Saints
by Suzzy Roche

Wayward Saints (11/25/2011)

I started the book earlier this week only to be interrupted by Thanksgiving preparations. Early this morning, I picked up the book expecting to read a few chapters...Here - hours later, I have completed the book and have enjoyed every minute. At one moment, the book reminds me of the novel "Olive Kitteradge" and at another moment it reminds me of my own inner ramblings. Certainly, an enjoyable, pleasant book about Life, Choices, Forgiveness, And Growing Up....

Falling Together: A Novel
by Marisa De Los Santos

Falling Together (9/20/2011)

I had a difficult time competing this book once I hit the mid-point of the book. I felt as though the author was keeping a secret that did not need to be kept so tightly. I rarely read this genre but the author's bio intrigued me. It was a good reflection on college friends and bonding but lost me a little in the end.

Sister: A Novel
by Rosamund Lupton

Sister (5/24/2011)

I absolutely enjoyed reading this book. While I had a little difficulty in the beginning understanding the flow of chapters and time sequence, I can honestly encourage every reader to hang in there! I read the book in little over one day of pure blissful reading of a great mystery. Having three sisters of my own, I thought the author nailed the unique relationship we all share with our sisters over the years. Job Well Done!

The Trinity Six
by Charles Cumming

Trinity Six (3/4/2011)

I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters were excellent and I wish to see more of Charlotte in other books if possible. Honestly, the book kept me guessing as well as led me down a believable path of intrigue. Keep them coming!

Agent X: A Novel
by Noah Boyd

Agent X (12/5/2010)

I really enjoyed this book. It is one of the better FBI-CIA intrigue books that I've read over the past couple of years. I found the book to be similar to Nelson DeMille's - John Corry character. In fact, I had to remind myself a couple of times that it was not indeed the same character. I enjoyed the constant turns and could not put the book down once I hit the second half of the book.

Great House: A Novel
by Nicole Krauss

The Empty Desk (11/28/2010)

I am sad to report that I truly believe this book had the best of intentions to be a wonderful novel. Without question, the idea of a desk and it's symbolic power to a writer is very interesting and captivating. Unfortunately, I believe the book was difficult to follow and I was left feeling as though the author should try again and connect the dots for us all.

The Invisible Bridge
by Julie Orringer

Readers Remorse! (11/28/2010)

All of us "book-lovers" know the sad feeling of satisfaction upon completion of a captivating novel! Truly, The Invisible Bridge embodies the very best of current historical fiction. The themes of friendship, love and family are weaved through the atrocities of World War II with grace and respect. I am left with an admiration for the strength and resolve of the characters as well as a sincere sense of gratitude to the author for her tale. I was reminded of the importance of simple acts of kindness as well as the enduring bonds of family and friends.

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