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Reviews by Laurie F. (Brookline, MA)

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A Paris Apartment
A Paris Apartment
by Michelle Gable
Interesting topic. Not such an interesting read (3/12/2014)
Paris, the world of antiques, discovery, self assessment - it all sounds like the basis of a good novel. Unfortunately, the writing is more like a mass-market paperback rather than the quality of good fiction. I found the story line a bit cliché. Just was not my cup of tea.
The Race Underground
The Race Underground: Boston, New York, and the Incredible Rivalry That Built America's First Subway
by Doug Most
Good Story for Bostonians and New Yorkers (12/3/2013)
The Race Underground is a good historical account of the characters involved in the early days of mass transit in the cities of Boston and New York. I wonder if the book would appeal to those not familiar with these great American cities.
I must confess I am from the Brookline/Boston area where much of the events took place so I found the background quite interesting yet the writing style was not as fine-tuned as it could have been missing the flow of a well-seasoned author.
Last Train to Istanbul
Last Train to Istanbul
by Ayse Kulin
Best Read in a Long Time (9/2/2013)
Bravo to Ayse Kulin and her translator John W. Baker for such a rich and poignant story. Last Train to Istanbul takes you on a journey with two Turkish sisters, their families and their acquaintances, all who lead separate lives during the German occupation. Despite the events, the sisters cling to one another though their memories and concerns during this dark time in during Hitler's march. Each character takes a different path, through their ideals and political survival to end up on the Last Train. A highly recommended read!
To the Moon and Timbuktu
To the Moon and Timbuktu: A Trek through the Heart of Africa
by Nina Sovich
The Story of Nina Sovich (6/6/2013)
This could have been a good book. If the author had focused more on the places she went and the people she met rather than herself. I have traveled Africa quite extensively and it is a beautiful continent with very interesting people. It was tiring to keep seeing the word "I". She seemed discontent and sometimes miserable - never truly amazed with the experience or the adventure.
The Caretaker
The Caretaker
by A .X. Ahmad
The Care-Taker (4/22/2013)
This was an interesting book, fast moving, interesting cultural issues, good character development until about 75 into the story.

As Rajit started getting deeper into trouble I had a feeling it was not going to end well. Many disconnected twists and a very short disappointing ending. Too bad as I was hoping for more.
Golden Boy
Golden Boy
by Abigail Tarttelin
Wonderful and Human Perspective of the Life of an Intersex Child (1/2/2013)
Confession: I didn't think I was going to like this book but I was quickly absorbed. Max's life experiences and interactions open your heart as well as your mind. I normally find the character-to-character perspective choppy and distracting but it worked in this novel. The author does a wonderful job developing the characters and having the reader sympathize and sometimes cringe as they become part of Max's life. I was ready to rate this book a five until it became a bit wordy in the last 50 pages or so.
The Edge of the Earth
The Edge of the Earth
by Christina Schwarz
Great Read! (10/14/2012)
This was one of those books where you stayed up or hurried home to continue reading. You sympathized with the challenges and emotions of the characters. You also became part of the isolated community on the island. Highly recommend if you are in the mood for a good story.
The Woman at the Light
The Woman at the Light: A Novel
by Joanna Brady
Engrossing Tale of Forbidden Love (6/21/2012)
Fabulous read! You will delve into the loves and life of Emily Lowry, the heroine of this novel - plan to stay up at night as you live her life, sympathize with her tragedies and delight in her good times. Well written, identifiable characters and realistic settings. Pick this one for a great escape.
The Queen's Lover
The Queen's Lover: A Novel
by Francine du Plessix Gray
Lot's of talk - no action (4/28/2012)
I tried to give this book a chance plugging through the first 70 plus pages. Though there is a fair effort to develop the characters, timelines are disjointed and relationships between people and time periods messy. Not my cup of tea!
The House of Velvet and Glass
The House of Velvet and Glass: A Novel
by Katherine Howe
An Escape into Early 20th Century Beacon Hill (3/10/2012)
Wonderful, engrossing are the first words that come to mind after reading Katherine Howe's novel. Fabulous character development and descriptions of life during these times as the author delves into the not-so perfect lives of the Boston Brahmins. The book interestingly interweaves the issues of addiction, mysticism, tragedy and positive outcomes in the Ashton family tale. A great book to read on your own or discuss in a group.
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