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Reviews by Debra V. (Kenosha, WI)

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Niceville: A Novel
by Carsten Stroud
Niceville (6/8/2012)
Enjoyed this improbable mystery from Carsten Stroud. The dialog was entertaining and so was the story. I found the ending unsatisfying and difficult to understand, but then the book's charm is that it is an improbable southern gothic type of mystery!!
The House of Velvet and Glass: A Novel
by Katherine Howe
Possible Bestseller (3/14/2012)
Really enjoyed iThe House of Velvet and Glass/i by Katherine Howe. I liked the way it moved from the present to the past telling more than one story and helping you understand the characters emotions. I liked the dating of the chapters so that you knew instantly what story was being told. Also liked the Afterword at the end and totally agree with the author's conclusions about that period in history. I will definitely read this author again, and would recommend to book clubs.
Wayward Saints
by Suzzy Roche
Wayward Saints (11/10/2011)
I really enjoyed Wayward Saints by Suzzy Roche. It is very interesting to read novels written from the perspective of an author who has actually "done" what they are writing about. In most cases, this type of author does not mix a good story with great writing, however Suzzy Roche mixes wry style with graceful writing and the result is a great book that captures your attention until the last page! The only criticism I have is that the "arch nemesis" Adele is never really formed as a character, so why mention her at all?
Turn of Mind
by Alice LaPlante
Turn of Mind (5/19/2011)
Haunting story of a brilliant woman's descent into dementia. Turn of Mind is written in a way that takes you into Dr. Jennifer White's fragmented life and thoughts and allows you to feel the pain and confusion with her. The mystery of her best friend's death and her conflicted relationship with her children are filtered through her disease. The best novel I have read this year!
Original Sin: A Sally Sin Adventure
by Beth Mcmullen
What Fun! (2/3/2011)
Loved this quick read and can't wait for future installments about Sally Sin -- A California style mother/housewife/spy!
The Beauty of Humanity Movement: A Novel
by Camilla Gibb
Odd Title/Good Book (12/14/2010)
The reason that I requested this book to review was that the story was set in post-war Vietnam. My generation grew up in the shadow of that war and my view of Viet Nam was taken from the nightly news reports, and later from the vets who returned -- many of them emotionally damaged. It is a beautifully written story of the Vietnamese families that were also damaged by this conflict and how they were able to move forward in spite of a repressive and misguided government. A great book for women of my generation who want to know more about the ordinary people of Viet Nam after the war that changed all of our lives.
The Tenth Song
by Naomi Ragen
The Tenth Song (10/20/2010)
Well written, inspiring read about life-changing events for a wealthy, ambitious Jewish family. Very spiritual.
Juliet
by Anne Fortier
A DaVinci Code type novel (7/6/2010)
A Da Vinci Code type novel about the star crossed lovers who were the inspiration for Romeo & Juliet. The writing style was good, but the book was too long and some of the characters were unnecessary. It will appeal to the type of book club that reads current best sellers. It was good enough to finish, but not good enough to read again!
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