I liked this book and was fascinated by this true story of privilege and society in the mid-1800's. This book is a detailed accounting of a divorce and child custody case between two high society New Yorkers from well-to-do families. At that time, the laws governing divorce and child custody disregarded women's rights entirely, and once a women got married, she basically had no independence at all. The behavior of the participants in this story illustrates that basic human nature does not change, but cultures do evolve over time. The drama played out in the context of the broader values and culture among privileged citizens and New Yorkers in the mid-1800's and incorporates major events happening at that time such as the Civil War, the assassination of Lincoln, and the abolishing of slavery. I got a little bogged down with the details of the trial, but the book certainly held my interest throughout and has inspired me to learn more about the origin of the women's rights movement in the U.S.

Overall, I enjoyed this story, but I was not as engaged as I wish I could have been. I admire the author's attention to detail in describing the costumes, the sets, the scandals, and power dynamics of Hollywood in the 1930's and 40's. There are so many characters interacting with each other; it was sometimes hard to keep things straight, but it was helpful to have the cast of characters at the beginning of the book. The storyline of this book is certainly relevant to today's current societal issues, particularly the #metoo movement and workplace abuse. I enjoyed the main character, Edie O'Dare, and her evolution from actress to gossip columnist. If you appreciate the glitz and charm of old Hollywood, I believe you would like this book.

I really enjoyed Margot by Wendell Steavenson. It was a quick and absorbing read, with a combination of well-developed characters and fast-moving plot. I admired Margot's ambition and desire to go to college and study science, in spite of her family's social pressures. I also felt sorry for Margot having to suffer the behavior of her dreadful mother and remote, unethical father. The book recalls historical events of the late 1960's and the struggles of women competing with and working with men in the academic world. I think this book would be a great choice for book clubs.

Based on the description of this book, I didn't think I would like this novel; however, I am glad I read it. It is an imaginative and well-written story, and it was a page-turner for me. The main character, Bonnie, immerses herself in a fantasy world as a way to cope with trauma and loss in her life. The author spares no detail in her descriptions of this imaginary world. Although the concept is far-fetched, the story leaves the reader with many issues to ponder: mental illness, withdrawal from society, relationships, and loss. This was not a light read, and I'm not sure it would be popular with book clubs, but if you like a dark topic, this may be the book for you.

I thoroughly enjoyed Fencing with the King by Diana Abu-Jaber, and it had me captivated from the start. This lovely book contains genuine characters and vivid descriptions of the country Jordan while unfolding Amani's search for answers about her family's past history and heritage in Jordan, provoked by a poem written by her grandmother years ago. The prose flows easily as the story incorporates family dynamics and relationships, mystery and intrigue, and politics. The book wove Amani's family history with Jordanian history and the plight of immigrants. I believe this book will have wide appeal to readers and would be great for book clubs.

I really enjoyed this heartwarming story of a brother and sister who, due to unfortunate circumstances, were apart for 15 years. I was engaged in the story from the beginning. This well-written novel flowed back and forth in time, relating the details which led to the sibling's separation and their efforts to salvage their relationship. There is suspense as the narrative builds until eventually by the end, the whole story is revealed. The characters' relationships with family and the emotions expressed were realistic and believable. I know nothing about bird watching; therefore, it was interesting to read about the passion of birdwatchers and the descriptions of the wetlands of Canvey Island in England. I think this book would appeal to book clubs, or anyone who enjoys a novel about sibling relationships and family dynamics in general.

I thoroughly enjoyed "Flesh & Blood" by N. West Moss and consider it an outstanding memoir! The book held my interest, and the short concise chapters kept the narrative moving. Ms. Moss is a beautiful and poetic writer. She honestly shares her emotions and feelings about infertility and the daunting health challenges that she bravely endured. I loved the stories about her mother and grandmother, both remarkable women! Although much of the content is serious, the author has a sense of humor, and some sections are quite funny! I would recommend this book to anyone interested in women's issues and to anyone who loves a good memoir.