Every Christmas I choose a book with a holiday theme to enjoy either on vacation or just as family gathers in our home. SEVEN DAYS OF US caught my attention right away because of the premise of a family together for a week! I began reading hoping I'd get some advice or find some similarities as I recalled past family gatherings. It did not fail as Ms. Hornak managed to incorporate about every possible family scenario and the widest variety of personalities ever imaginable under one roof! Some even just "fell in" the front door! And secrets? Make sure you clear any of those up before you spend a week with the entire family!!! Very much an enjoyable read with straight forward plot lines and short chapters which make SEVEN DAYS an easy read during busy holiday schedules.

The language draws you into another time, the writing style propels you forward and as the characters' stories unfold your heart aches for the young Civil
War bride left on her own and hiding the truth behind a terrible crime. Looking forward to Susan River's next book!!!

Olen Steinhauer brings readers to the town of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California where two former spies and once lovers rendezvous to recount a fateful day they shared together in Vienna. Just as the protagonists pair their (multiple) glasses of wine with their entrees, Steinhauer expertly blends the page-turning suspense of a spy thriller with meaningful literary themes like the limits of loyalty and the power of love. While this book is perfect for a quick, casual read, it raises questions that would make for meaningful group discussion as well.

Years ago I enjoyed reading "Gifts of the Sea" and only as I began "Aviator's Wife" did I recall the little book that made me look at shells differently. I read eagerly the life of Charles and Anne all the while hoping they would find true peace in their lives together. I especially enjoyed how Ms. Benjamin described the historical details surrounding Hitler's Germany of the late 1930's. Historical fiction makes history come alive and Ms. Benjamin is one of the best. I look forward to handselling this title for bookgroups to discuss. I have seen Melanie Benjamin's books on the shelves at work and have thought "have to read that next" but, now they are on a pile next to my bed! Look forward to meeting her at her upcoming signing!