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Reviews by Melanie B. (Desoto, TX)

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Golden Child
by Claire Adam
Very good book! Complex and disturbing (10/24/2018)
This story of the Deyalsingh family and the critical decision that changes all of their lives is well-written, complex, and disturbing. I was not expecting the ending and the dilemma presented by the disappearance of Clyde's son Paul results in a realistic and thought-provoking decision that is difficult to consider. I highly recommend this novel for book groups looking for lively and passionate discussion.
A Ladder to the Sky: A Novel
by John Boyne
Thought-provoking, chilling suspense (9/14/2018)
This book was well-written with an unexpected ending. The story kept my interest and Maurice Swift's unwavering ambition to be a renowned writer prevails to the end. Maurice's efforts to reach his goals go from being fairly manipulative to disturbing and even frightening. This is one of the most intriguing books I've read this year. I highly recommend this book.
America for Beginners
by Leah Franqui
Excellent, heartwarming story! (3/25/2018)
This is one of the best books I've read this year! From start to finish, this story of three very different yet similar people on a guided tour across the USA is beautifully written, emotional and suspenseful at the same time. The novel underscores what most people already know — wherever you go, there you are. I highly recommend this book!
As Bright as Heaven
by Susan Meissner
Warm and satisfying story (10/11/2017)
This book is a loving story of family, determination and hope in the face of great personal tragedy and loss. The author captures the historical significance of World War One and the 1918 flu epidemic and skillfully moves the Bright family through both events into the 1920s. The characters live with death on a daily basis due to war, the flu and in their family business. However, the story is not thoroughly depressing but hopeful and optimistic and the subject of death is presented in a realistic and respectable manner. The characters are likeable and the plot is convincing throughout. I think this is a good book for reading group discussion.
The Necklace
by Claire McMillan
Exceptional Book! (6/10/2017)
This is one of the best books I've read this year. The interwoven telling of the Moon of Nizam necklace and the Quincy family's secret history result in an intriguing, romantic and suspenseful mystery. I highly recommend this book.
If We Were Villains
by M. L. Rio
Plodding suspense thriller (4/1/2017)
This book is a literary suspense thriller with numerous Shakespearean lines, roles and characters underscoring the story. The main characters are well-developed and the book starts off well but gets muddled in the middle.
I See You
by Clare Mackintosh
Fast-paced suspense (11/27/2016)
Very good suspense thriller. The author plays on our fear of the unknown in a contemporary setting -- the internet -- and it leads to twists and turns through the end of the story and an interesting surprise.
Florence Gordon
by Brian Morton
Excellent Book! (8/23/2015)
This is one of the best books I've read this year! I recommend this novel to all readers but if you are transitioning as an older adult, I think Florence's story is particularly thoughtful, laughable, gritty and realistic. The author presents an honest look at family relationships and the imperfect ways we love and communicate.
A Good Family
by Erik Fassnacht
Thoughtful and realistic story of a contemporary family (5/15/2015)
I found the story intriguing and relatable, bittersweet yet optimistic. The personal journey of each family member is at times funny, sad, redeeming, and heroic. I recommend this book for its well-written and realistic depiction of modern family dynamics.
Descent
by Tim Johnston
So-So Thriller (11/9/2014)
I was riveted by the first half of the book but the last half of the book was not-so-thrilling. The author did a good job with character development and detailing the geographical surroundings so well that I could visualize the landscape. The story started off strong but for me the conclusion was slightly improbable.
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