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Reviews by Mary H. (Phoenix, AZ)

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The Venetian Bargain
by Marina Fiorato

A mask of romance and intrigue. (1/8/2014)

Let's hear it for a woman as the heroine! This story centered around a very talented, intuitive and young woman named Feyra from Constantinople. Her journey is nothing short of remarkable, at times more fantastic than possible but nevertheless the story keeps you interested …more

Where Monsters Dwell
by Jørgen Brekke

Current day monsters still exist. (11/18/2013)

This book is a good mystery in all respects. There is a lot going on trying to juggle two timelines, many characters and some gruesome situations, but as the story progresses you really want to read through to the end. I enjoyed the way the author tied two similar stories …more

Three Things You Need to Know About Rockets: A Memoir
by Jessica A. Fox

Constellation FOX (7/2/2013)

I read the book with pleasure. The experiences of Jessica Fox whether awkward or blissful were much like the mapping of the stars. If every poet, writer or philosopher that was quoted, every influence such as Herman Melville, Joseph Campbell and or NASA were stars and each …more

The Forgetting Tree: A Novel
by Tatjana Soli

An unpredictable personal influence. (9/6/2012)

This story takes the reader on a journey that tests the origins of our faith and belief in a positive future. How much mental and physical stress can a person endure and still display hope. The magic of personal belief and the ability to demonstrate an understanding of what …more

The Innocents: A Novel
by Francesca Segal

It is truly a Family affair. (5/12/2012)

The story holds some complex issues for adults who have narrowed their life choices. Expectations prove to be the norm for all the characters but one. The renegade cousin Ellie, although accepted due to circumstances beyond her control, is never totally a welcome family …more

Just Kids
by Patti Smith

Like reading someone's diary (3/7/2012)

The very personal account of Patti Smith's relationship with Robert Mapplethorpe is revealed. She recounts their life in NYC in the 60's with many of the avant garde players, some of which were yet to be discovered. They were bohemian artists who lived a somewhat risky life …more

American Dervish: A Novel
by Ayad Akhtar

Caught between two cultures. (2/7/2012)

After hearing the interview on NPR with the author, Ayad Akhtar, I was intrigued.
This is a timely, contemporary novel concerning topics of religious freedoms, immigration, family ties and personal growth. Hayat, the narrator is young and impressionable but who should he …more

BookBrowse Book Club

The Lilac People
by Milo Todd

For fans of All the Light We Cannot See, a poignant tale of a trans man’s survival in Nazi Germany and postwar Berlin.

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Daughters of Shandong
by Eve J. Chung

Based on the author’s family story, comes an extraordinary novel about a mother and her daughters’ escape from Taiwan.

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Lessons in Chemistry
by Bonnie Garmus

Praised by Parade and The New York Times Book Review, this debut features a 1960s scientist turned TV cooking star.

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