The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern

The Starless Sea by Erin Morgenstern
My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I listened to this book and loved the narrators; unfortunately I did not enjoy the story which seemed so disjointed and not telling a story really. It was difficult to try to keep the characters, the plot lines, the stories together but I mightily tried! I loved to read and did not see this as an homage to storytelling at all. So I was not happy to have wasted 18 hours listening- but I loved the narration; it was just a frustrating mess for me, sorry!!!

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Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier

Ghosts by Raina Telgemeier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another winner from Raina Telgemeier as she uses Maya's cystic fibrosis as a reason for the family to move to a warmer climate. Cat is not happy about the move, leaving her friends, but she is a supportive big sister. When they arrive in Bahia de la Luna the girls find out from their next door neighbor there is a long history of celebrating ghosts and loved ones who have passed on. I loved Maya's joy and exploring nature and Cat's protective side. Cat's mom loves the new neighbors because they are Mexican American like her and many new dishes and cultural roots are explored. I loved the ghosts, the beauty of the Day of the Dead and Cat's acceptance of many things in her new home, family and friends. This graphic novel will be flying off the shelves!

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Stripped (Jonathan Stride, #2) by Brian Freeman

Stripped by Brian Freeman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I totally enjoyed this 2nd Jonathan Stride detective mystery! This is my 3rd Brian Freeman book and I will continue to read all his books, his mysteries are mesmerizing with their sharp, thrilling plots, characters, and many many twists that keep me turning the pages! Jonathan Stride has moved to Vegas following Serena Dial after he retires from Duluth. This world will pack a punch with an old secret propelling a murderer who has an agenda to right the wrongs of the past. With new characters like Blake, Boni, Amira, Amanda and Claire, Stride and Serena race to stop the murderer as he leaves clues and micks them to catch him. The seedy side of Vegas, those controlling the casinos, and those unable to survive a killer's path kept me enthralled as I gobbled up the pages, crimes, and life stories of the characters in this slick, steamy mystery.

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The Steel Prince #2 (Shades of Magic Graphic Novels #2) by V.E. Schwab

The Steel Prince #2 by V.E. Schwab
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I love all Victoria Schwab books and this book, now a graphic novel, is perfect!

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Chosen (Slayer #2) by Kiersten White

Chosen by Kiersten White
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Just as I loved and could not put down White's First Buffy Book, Slayer, so was this 2nd book, Chosen, a GOOD punch in the gut read. The characters like Nina and her friends defending the castle are real friends, supporting Nina while her sister, Artemis is just sinister, sneaky, and awful with her "plans" to dominate. I love Kiersten White's writing, her world building, a plot that just kept moving toward bad stuff but since Nina's powers were restored by Simon before he died, she is having such difficulty with her feelings of rage, anger, and her powers are stronger than ever! Also I enjoyed Nina's dreams and the appearance of Buffy too. This is a great duology; I highly recommend it if you want a thriller with lots of suspense, awesome plot twists, and surprises galore!

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Sisters by Raina Telgemeier

Sisters by Raina Telgemeier
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Raina has always wanted a sister, until she got one. Amira is not easy to get along with and a road trip with Mom and baby brother Will during the summer really stretches the familial bonds. I laughed out loud with the authentic family scenes of fighting, arguing, one-upping, and drama all around. Raina's childhood rings true with her bright illustrations; this is a cross over book as well since Raina is entering high school. A book one and all will enjoy.

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Everybody's Son by Thrity Umrigar

Everybody's Son by Thrity Umrigar
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Many thanks to the gentleman who kept advocating that Springfield Public Library Adult Book Club read this title! I could not put this heart stopping thriller down, nor did I want to because I needed to find out what happens to Anton! Anton is the 9 year old child who has been forced to throw a chair against the painted shut window of his apartment after 7 heat filled days with no power, ac, and finally no food, waiting for Mam to come home. This sets off a series of events that change this child's life forever. Anton is biracial, his mother was hooked on crack, found 3 blocks away, where she endured her own hell trying to get back to her son. Once the authorities get involved; things move along for Anton; but are they all good and beneficial for him? He becomes a foster child to a white politically connected man (he and his wife lost their teen son) who becomes instantly besotted by Anton, driven by what he thinks is best for Anton. I loved the way Thrity Umrigar writes, her plot, her characters are beautiful, harsh in their reality, and authentic. The reader follows Anton and his family (David and Delores Coleman) as he grows up in a very privileged world with questions at first but less so with age (lies have smoothed over his discomfort) Anton's world is a must read for all. There will so many issues to discuss!

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Jackpot by Nic Stone

Jackpot by Nic Stone
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Once again, Nic Stone has crafted 2 protagonists I won't ever forget. Rico (love that name!!!) is a mixed race teen who holds a job, watches her brother, Jax, after school and has the weight of the world on her shoulders. Why? Her single mom, has them living above their means, won't apply for any kind of assistance or insurance, and she has health issues too so whenever she gets sick, Rico has to double up on making money. Why? Because Rico and her mom are responsible for the bills and rent. My heart broke for Rico but she is one tough girl. When she sells a lottery ticket to an old woman who shares 1 with Rico and then the winning ticket is purchased at this Gas n Go, Rico makes a decision. She is going to find that woman and share in the lottery proceeds. But to do this involves Rico from going invisible at her high school to asking for help from Zander, popular, crushworthy and rich. What follows kept me turning the pages; because as Rico keeps to herself her crushing on Zan; Zan is totally into following Rico on her schemes to find the old woman. I loved how Zan and Rico get to know each other, confide things to each other they have never confided to others, and realize maybe they have things in common. Nic Stone has written a must read about family issues, poverty, choices, and stereotypes. Loved this book, these characters and their world so much!

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Breath Like Water by Anna Jarzab

Breath Like Water by Anna Jarzab
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Teen (U.S. & Canada) and Inkyard Press for the Advance Reader Copy, Breath Like Water by Anna Jarzab in exchange for an honest review. Teens will love reading about Susannah’s journey as a swimmer, friend, daughter, and girlfriend as she swims to capture a coveted honor, only to lose it. Jarzab’s novel is riveting; the competition is exciting and harsh with Susannah seriously doubting herself as she tries once again, with a new coach, and supportive guy to claim a spot in the Olympics. I ached for Susannah, Beth, and Harry as they navigate the tough world of swimming, practices, family, and friends. Having no social life for Susannah is a must because of swimming demands (time, money, friends) but what if Susannah tries to make the time for Harry Matthews, who is totally into her, will she be able to handle it? Readers will root for Susannah and Harry as they navigate life, swimming, mental illness, and family. This is a must-read that nails the fear and anxiety Harry suffers as a result of being diagnosed and living with bipolar disorder. He confides only to Susannah and does not want his friends or the world to know about his mental illness as he grapples with past memories, taking meds, and dealing with the highs and lows that are bipolar disorder. Both families are supportive of Susannah and Harry. It is the main coach, Dave, who hires another coach, Beth (she becomes Susannah’s coach) who does the most damage to Susannah. As her lifelong coach, Dave is a control freak who mentally and verbally pits his swimmers against themselves and their teammates. This damage really stunts Susannah with her growth, confidence, and her trust. I could not stop turning the pages as the tension builds between the coaches. This is the perfect book for teens, about athletics, mental illness, friendship, family, and the fears of hiding your true self. Susannah and Harry are teens we all need to know, highly recommended!

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Immoral (Jonathan Stride, #1) by Brian Freeman

Immoral by Brian Freeman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Awesomely read by Joe Barrett, this audiobook kept me listening. My first intro to Brian Freeman as a mystery author was with the Audible title, The Deep Deep Snow and being riveted from page one, I have decided to read all his mysteries. Contrary to some reviews I liked the sexual exploits, it made the detectives lives deeper, more human and believable. I loved Jonathan Stride and am so glad there is a series about him! I will be binge reading those books and I see he has another series which I want to read as well. I liked learning about the world of Duluth and Las Vegas as seen through Stride's eyes. The characterizations and plot kept this mystery lover wading into the crime, the courtroom drama and the fall out. Highly recommended!

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The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes

The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Many thanks to my librarian friend and reading buddy for this wonderful recommendation involving history and librarians and even better, 5 strong librarians promoting reading to those in the far rural areas of Kentucky. I listened to the audiobook, awesomely narrated by Julia Whelan, one of my favorite narrators on Audible. In this audiobook, Whelan's voices for Fred and Sven made my reading heart thump with their conviction and support of Margery and Alice as well as the Pack Horse Library. The 5 librarians Margery, Alice, Izzy, Beth and Sophia find the true meaning of friendship within their library family; they become a whole, a force to be reckoned with, and overcome the racism and judgments from the small minded, vindictive townspeople. The horses who carry each woman are even just as special to each of these women (they become friends, talk to their horses, worry about them and feed and care for them in a special way) and they grow exponentially as a result of their books helping and sustaining those on their route while forming important relationships with the families and their children. I fell in love with the beauty of Kentucky, the history of its people, and the power of books to change their lives. I could not stop listening to Julia Whelan's narration and when I wasn't listening I was worrying about these women who came to mean so much to me-their bravery, honesty, willingness to fight for the Pack Horse Library, the families they served, and come to aid of those in need (the flood). I am grateful to Jojo Moyes for this book and learning about the Roosevelts and their charge to light up the lives of those in the 1930s with the WPA bringing books, conversation, and education to those in the outer reaches of Kentucky. In addition, Jojo Moyes crafted a rip roaring good story filled with highs and lows, hopes realized and offering an awesome redemptive ending---highly recommended!

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A Cold Trail (Tracy Crosswhite, #7) by Robert Dugoni

A Cold Trail by Robert Dugoni
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dugoni has done it again---I love this Tracy Crosswhite series; Book 7 has Tracy and her husband, Dan now parents, re-visiting Cedar Grove while their Seattle home is being renovated. With a nanny Therese taking care of Daniella both Tracy and Dan have separate cases that become intertwined. I read this thriller in one day; Dugoni's story had my heart pounding, turning those pages; can't wait for the next Dugoni book!

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Eyes Bottle Dark With a Mouthful of Flowers by Jake Skeets

Eyes Bottle Dark with a Mouthful of Flowers by Jake Skeets
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Beautiful, brutal, and needed poetry; an award winner, a must read!

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Chilren of Virtue and Vengeance (Legacy of Orisha, #2) by Tomi Adeyemi

Children of Virtue and Vengeance by Tomi Adeyemi
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

I loved Bahni Turpin's narration but unfortunately not this 2nd book in Tomi Adeyemi's series. I did not like any of the characters from the first book; Zelie and Amari, Inan and his mother were all mean spirited, with their own agendas. The only character I liked was Zane and the Magi especially Mama. Not sure if I will be reading the 3rd book; especially if the hope and redemption is not there for the reader.

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Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling

Momentous Events in the Life of a Cactus by Dusti Bowling
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Aven's life has gotten more complicated with her entrance into high school; oh did I love Dusti Bowling's writing, her characters, her honesty and Aven's adventures in friendship, family, horses and making her way in the world. I could not stop reading and admiring Aven; how she loves life but is crushed by the bullies who want to destroy her high school experience. And I loved how her friends Zion and his brother to name just a few, band together to help their friend. Another awesome book by Dusti Bowling and a must read for all.

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The Line Tender by Kate Allen

The Line Tender by Kate Allen
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an awesome book- combining the beauty of life, the despair and grief of death, family, friends, sharks, the sea and just a very special book! I loved every word from debut author, Kate Allen and the realistic B&W shark drawings were breathtaking in their stark beauty. Lucy and her Dad are still grieving the loss of shark expert, mom, and wife. As Lucy and her best friend Fred work on a field guide for extra credit for school the reader learns just how special these 2 kids are. But every single character in Allen's book was special; I could not put this book down! I think everyone should read it for so many reasons; I am running out and getting a copy of this book to give to my friends to read! Highly recommended!

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Hungry Hearts: 13 Tales of Food & Love edited by Elise Chapman and Caroline Tung Richmond

Hungry Hearts: 13 Tales of Food & Love by Elsie Chapman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh did I love this book- all of the short stories interconnected around Hungry Heart Row were important, expressed so many feelings in the backdrop of food, restaurants, those working there and the people who visited the many different restaurants on Hungry Row. The YA authors' stories immersed me in the beauty of the food, the people, and the many meanings---a must read!

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From Twinkle With Love by Sandhya Menon

From Twinkle, with Love by Sandhya Menon
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Oh did I love this Sandhya Menon book about a shy teen who doesn't really stand up for herself, loves to film, and laments the loss of her best friend, Maddy. When Twinkle is approached by Sahil Roy to direct a school project, she jumps at the chance to direct but also sees a way to date her crush, Neil who happens to be Sahil's twin. I loved every word in this romance, Twinkle's slow fall for Sahil, the high school infighting, and Sahil's total belief in Twinkle and the growth of her voice.

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Watermark (Broken Bell, Book 1) by Elise Schiller

Watermark by Elise Schiller
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Told in alternating narratives by Angel’s sister and Angel’s best friend, this gritty urban fiction novel takes place in Philadelphia with oldest sister, Angel, ardent protector of her three younger sisters while juggling school, swim team practice, holding down a job at the laundromat all while their mother, Pic, is selfish, absent, abusive, drug addicted, alcoholic and married to Frank (who hates Angel, does not work, feeds Pic drugs and invective). What I loved about this book are the many supportive people in Angel’s life who step in and make a difference. When their mother is in rehab, their grandparents take them and provide a very stable environment. CJ is the coach of the swim team who sees Angel’s worth on the team while also grooming her to succeed in life; he is tough but fair and pushes Angel to swim her best time and time again, even when her life is falling apart. Angel is a teen; strong, flawed, but very likable; she speaks her mind (which pits her against her mother and Frank), is devoted to her sisters and friends. From Jeannine and Alex, their story/life of Angel, is riveting, shocking, and just so real. Jeannine has so much inner turmoil, she stops going to school, self medicates, rarely eats and leaves the house. Alex has the nice house, is best friends with Angel, and has a friendly mother where Angel feels comfortable enough to relax and even confide. The desperate search for Angel when she does not come home New Year’s Eve is heart wrenching. What happened to Angel and will she be found in time? A highly recommended ripped from the headlines read that teens and adults alike will not be able to put down. Even better, this is the first in a series, Broken Bell; I can’t wait for the second book. I love Elise Schiller’s writing, her characters, and portrayal of Philadelphia with beauty and authenticity. A must read! Due out in May, 2020.

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