I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Last Train to Key West. The plot is imaginative and focused, moving at a deliberate pace that holds the reader's attention. I was involved from page one with the multiple and compelling characters and conflicts. The characters are well-developed, intriguing and believable--they are "real," and I cared about them and how the resolution would affect them. I applaud the author's skill as she effectively and skillfully manages three unique and distinctive narrators in alternating chapters. Thank you for the opportunity to read The Last Train to Key West. I have already recommended it as a "Don't Miss This One" to other readers.

Never Coming Back by Alison McGhee is well-written and relevant, with memorable characters and an interesting style.

The ever-increasing incidence of Alzheimer's in our world has affected not only the victims of its wrath, but also their caregivers. McGhee shares the story of Clara and her mother Tamar, two unforgettable characters who will sneak into the reader's thoughts long after the book is finished.

Of particular interest is the "Jeopardy" motif that appears frequently and quietly holds the narrative together. I also enjoyed the references to language and "bon mots" that are sprinkled throughout! . (And, yes, I frequently "uppercase" my thoughts/unspoken words!)

This book is a gem!

The Stars Are Fire by Anita Shreve is an interesting historical fiction set in Maine in October 1947, during and after a summer-long drought and destructive fires. Two aspects of the book are particularly notable. The well-developed characters are memorable, the reader cheers for Grace, whose resilience and perseverance save her and her children from certain death, and loathe Gene, who is bitter, demanding, demeaning and hateful. Also impressive is the use of setting as a driving force. The characters are forced to change and grow dramatically with every change of location. This helps to keep the reader interested and the plot fresh.

Even though the book is a good one, there are a couple of negatives that detract from the overall good impression. The ending is predictable, with the only question being which of the two likely guys will be victorious. Some details also seem to be contrived in spots, often being created to fit the story or having no apparent relevance.

I enjoyed the book and would recommend it to others as good, but not great.

This book was not quite what I expected. I was looking forward to an entertaining and informative read about Gladys-Spencer Churchill, but she was not the main character. Maybe because I kept looking for that focus, the plot seemed somewhat sluggish. I found it difficult to maintain interest. However, after plodding along with the first three-fourths of the book, I was rewarded with an interesting, though predictable, conclusion.

I was impressed with the author's treatment of the two storylines, which was not only well-done, but also very effective. Kudos to the author also for the humor, which was both hearty and subtle.

I would recommend this book with reservations.

Having read two other novels by Amanda Eyre Ward, I was excited to read "the same sky."

There are many reasons to like this book. First, although it is probably more real than I would like to admit, the plot is timely and believable. However, I had to remind myself often that Carla is a 12-year-old--way too young for the life depicted in this book. Second, the author's use of alternating narrators keeps the story "fresh" and engaging. I always needed to read "just one more chapter." Finally, the character development is of particular note. By the end of each chapter, I was cheering for Carla or mentally advising Alice. They became real.

The plot may be accurately described as predictable, but the reader's journey through the book is certainly not. Each interaction by Carla or Alice with another person or situation, propels her closer to realizing her life's goal--and both under the same sky.

I highly recommend "the same sky." This is a good read!

I thought the novel Her, a psychological thriller, would be a compelling reading adventure. For me, it was a slow read that never quite captured my attention.
There are several reasons to like this book:
1. The premise behind the plot is unique and promising;
2. The format (alternating narrators) is perfect for the two main characters; and
3. The characters are interesting and intriguing.

However, the shortcomings diminish what could/should have been an engaging read:
1. There is too much repetition of events by the main characters in their alternating chapters;
2. The plot is lean and needs more "meat";
3. The book's climax is weak and is not well-developed.

All in all, it was an okay read. I just wish it had fulfilled its promise.

Set in pre-Civil War southern Florida, The Woman at the Light ensnares the reader into the lives of unforgettable characters, whose courage and determination defy their prescribed place in society and history. At one point in the novel, Emily, the main character, describes herself as "a child of my time and place." Through Andrew, "the one man I truly loved," she grows beyond that time and place and gives the reader a reason to applaud the tireless human spirit. The author's mastery of character development made me truly care for the people of this novel.

For book clubs, this historical novel opens a treasure trove of discussion starters: lighthouses, wreckers, slavery, Indian raids, isolation survival, and Florida's history (especially eclectic Key West!).

I really liked this book!