1Dianekeenoy
Hi, I'm Diane and I've been happily retired for 7 and a half years! We moved from NJ a year and a half ago to beautiful Shohola, PA. We tried to downsize but our new house was a little too downsized for my husband so we finished up the basement into a beautiful great room with lots more room for my books! Still, we do miss NJ and go back to our old neighborhood weekly for book clubs, manicures, haircuts, etc. On the other hand, we certainly love saving lots of money on our real estate taxes. I never found a minute to start a thread last year so I'm determined to try and keep up this year. I did have a great reading year though finishing up 166 books, most of them very good to excellent!
2Dianekeenoy
1. The Burglar by Thomas Perry - 3.5 stars
Gee, I forgot how to put in the picture of the book! Back soon with that.
Anyway, my last book of 2021 was The Left-Handed Twin by Thomas Perry and I absolutely loved it so much that I requested all of the Jane Whitefield books that my library had and ordered the ones that they didn't have. This was a stand alone audiobook from the library which was good to listen to at night before bed but not as good as the Jane Whitefield book.
Gee, I forgot how to put in the picture of the book! Back soon with that.
Anyway, my last book of 2021 was The Left-Handed Twin by Thomas Perry and I absolutely loved it so much that I requested all of the Jane Whitefield books that my library had and ordered the ones that they didn't have. This was a stand alone audiobook from the library which was good to listen to at night before bed but not as good as the Jane Whitefield book.
3PaulCranswick
Lovely to see you back, Diane.
4drneutron
Welcome back!
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(img src="Pic file address") except use pointy brackets instead of parentheses. There’s also a height= command that lets you control the size.
5Dianekeenoy
2. Stars of Alabama by Sean Dietrich - 4.5 stars
I love Sean Dietrich and follow his daily Facebook postings which always make me laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time. I read his newest book, The Incredible Winston Browne which was a 5 star read for me. After that one, I bought his others! I can't say enough good things about this author, he has quickly become one of my favorite authors!
I love Sean Dietrich and follow his daily Facebook postings which always make me laugh and cry, sometimes at the same time. I read his newest book, The Incredible Winston Browne which was a 5 star read for me. After that one, I bought his others! I can't say enough good things about this author, he has quickly become one of my favorite authors!
6Dianekeenoy
>3 PaulCranswick: Thank you, Paul! I'm happy to be back!
7Dianekeenoy
>4 drneutron: Thanks so much, it worked! Glad to be back!!!
8Dianekeenoy
3. The Book Club by Roisin Meaney - 4 stars
I've found that with the difficult times of Covid, terrible news and now too many ice storms here in beautiful Pennsylvania that I now need to read sweet books in between my normal reads! They calm me down and I'm really enjoying them. I started following on Facebook, Friends and Fiction, this past year that is run by Kristin Harmel, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Patti Callahan Henry and Mary Kay Andrews. So, while I've always read Kristin Harmel, I am now reading the other authors as well. Also, getting a lot of great recommendations from the other members as well. Just exactly what I needed! To add more recommendations to the amazing recommendations I get from LT!
I've found that with the difficult times of Covid, terrible news and now too many ice storms here in beautiful Pennsylvania that I now need to read sweet books in between my normal reads! They calm me down and I'm really enjoying them. I started following on Facebook, Friends and Fiction, this past year that is run by Kristin Harmel, Kristy Woodson Harvey, Patti Callahan Henry and Mary Kay Andrews. So, while I've always read Kristin Harmel, I am now reading the other authors as well. Also, getting a lot of great recommendations from the other members as well. Just exactly what I needed! To add more recommendations to the amazing recommendations I get from LT!
9Dianekeenoy
4. Winter Garden by Kristin Hannah - 5 stars
I've had this book in my bedroom bookcase since it came out in 2010! Now, that one of our pups, Fiona has to eat in the bedroom and she won't eat until I actually sit down and read (I know, right!), I've started pulling out these books to read twice a day while she eats and happily she's a very slow eater!
Anyway, what an incredible book! The mother's story told in snippets as a fairy tale to her two daughters is heart wrenching...
I've had this book in my bedroom bookcase since it came out in 2010! Now, that one of our pups, Fiona has to eat in the bedroom and she won't eat until I actually sit down and read (I know, right!), I've started pulling out these books to read twice a day while she eats and happily she's a very slow eater!
Anyway, what an incredible book! The mother's story told in snippets as a fairy tale to her two daughters is heart wrenching...
10PaulCranswick
>9 Dianekeenoy: Kristin Hannah unfairly gets some bad press from so called high brow readers that she is not writing literature but who cares? Her storytelling skills more than make up for that. Too many books these days trying to tell us how to think and feel and what to take issue with rather than entertaining us with a good old fashioned story.
11Dianekeenoy
Okay, I read some really incredible books last year so I want to post some of them here so I can remember them when someone asks me for recommendations!
This is only a small fraction of the wonderful books I read in 2021, I guess I have to stop because I certainly don't want to keep adding! But, these were truly amazing!
This is only a small fraction of the wonderful books I read in 2021, I guess I have to stop because I certainly don't want to keep adding! But, these were truly amazing!
12Dianekeenoy
>10 PaulCranswick: I agree completely, Paul! I almost donated a stack of her unread books when we moved but I always enjoyed the books of hers that I had read so I kept them and now I am so glad I did! This one was a real surprise, I have to say! I also found new to me authors when I started looking for sweet calming books to insert between my normally intense reads and it has been an eye opening experience for me, that's for sure!
14FAMeulstee
Welcome back, Diane, happy reading in 2022!
>11 Dianekeenoy: The Osman book is on my list, I liked his first.
>11 Dianekeenoy: The Osman book is on my list, I liked his first.
15johnsimpson
Hi Diane my dear, i have starred you and will try to be a regular visitor dear friend.
16Whisper1
Hello Diane. I can't tell you how great it is to see you back. Of course, I added all of your 2022 reads thus far. And, I did not know that John Grisham has a new book, so that one is going on the TBR list as well.
Welcome back!!!!
Welcome back!!!!
17Dianekeenoy
>15 johnsimpson: Good morning, John! So good to hear from you!
18Dianekeenoy
>16 Whisper1: Good morning, Linda! I had stopped reading John Grisham but needed an audiobook for my trip to NC to see my Dad so just grabbed Sooley not knowing a thing about it! I am not a basketball fan at all but this was easily a 5 star book for me!
19Dianekeenoy
>14 FAMeulstee: Good morning, Anita, thank you! I got such a kick out of The Thursday Murder Club books! We're going to read the first one for my book Club
20Dianekeenoy
5. The Old Man by Thomas Perry - 4 stars
Another stand alone book (audiobook) from Thomas Perry that kept me up way too late!
Another stand alone book (audiobook) from Thomas Perry that kept me up way too late!
21Dianekeenoy
6. Detransition, Baby by Torrey Peters
I don't feel comfortable doing a review or assigning stars to this book. While parts of it were compelling, I had to do a bit of skimming which isn't fair to the author. I'm sure this is an important book which is why I wanted to read it, but it just wasn't working all the time for me. Perhaps, I will come back to reread.
I don't feel comfortable doing a review or assigning stars to this book. While parts of it were compelling, I had to do a bit of skimming which isn't fair to the author. I'm sure this is an important book which is why I wanted to read it, but it just wasn't working all the time for me. Perhaps, I will come back to reread.
23Dianekeenoy
8. Vanishing Act by Thomas Perry - 4.5 stars
Book 1 of the Jane Whitefield series. I read the newest book, The Left-Handed Twin, not knowing it was part of a series. So, between my 2 libraries and Abe Books, I have all the previous books in this series! Highly recommended!
Book 1 of the Jane Whitefield series. I read the newest book, The Left-Handed Twin, not knowing it was part of a series. So, between my 2 libraries and Abe Books, I have all the previous books in this series! Highly recommended!
24Dianekeenoy
9. Bewilderment by Richard Powers - 3.5 stars
I probably should have read what this book was about before listening to it since it took me awhile to connect with it. It probably , for me, would have been better to read it than listen. But, still a good book.
I probably should have read what this book was about before listening to it since it took me awhile to connect with it. It probably , for me, would have been better to read it than listen. But, still a good book.
25Dianekeenoy
10. These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant - 5 stars
This will probably be in my top reads for 2022. In these woods, we meet a father, Afghanistan vet, Cooper and his daughter, Finch who is now eight. He has been raising her alone since she was a baby hiding from the world. He gets a yearly visit from his friend, Jake who brings in a year’s worth of supplies. He also has a hermit like neighbor who is always watching and has a habit of quietly showing up. He also knows what Cooper has done so their relationship is difficult except when it comes to Finch. Scotland loves this little girl and she loves him as well, which makes it all the harder for Cooper to deal with him.
Unfortunately, this year, Jake doesn’t show up with their supplies and this sets off a series of events that show just how precarious their situation really is. The first part of the book does a wonderful job of showing how Finch has been raised without electricity or any connection to the outside world and is a happy, adventurous, and precocious little girl. It’s impossible not to love Finch, she has a strong moral code, and as much as she admires her dad, she’ll call him out if she doesn’t agree with his decisions. But, now with no supplies to last them through the very tough winter, Cooper has to make some decisions that will reveal just how precarious their situation really is.
ARC from my local library
This will probably be in my top reads for 2022. In these woods, we meet a father, Afghanistan vet, Cooper and his daughter, Finch who is now eight. He has been raising her alone since she was a baby hiding from the world. He gets a yearly visit from his friend, Jake who brings in a year’s worth of supplies. He also has a hermit like neighbor who is always watching and has a habit of quietly showing up. He also knows what Cooper has done so their relationship is difficult except when it comes to Finch. Scotland loves this little girl and she loves him as well, which makes it all the harder for Cooper to deal with him.
Unfortunately, this year, Jake doesn’t show up with their supplies and this sets off a series of events that show just how precarious their situation really is. The first part of the book does a wonderful job of showing how Finch has been raised without electricity or any connection to the outside world and is a happy, adventurous, and precocious little girl. It’s impossible not to love Finch, she has a strong moral code, and as much as she admires her dad, she’ll call him out if she doesn’t agree with his decisions. But, now with no supplies to last them through the very tough winter, Cooper has to make some decisions that will reveal just how precarious their situation really is.
ARC from my local library
26Dianekeenoy
11. Still Missing by Chevy Stevens - 4.5 stars
Another book that I have had on the shelves since 2010! I started reading this book twice a day while my little Havanese ate her food away from our other two pups. But, it was a fast paced book and I brought it into the family room tonight and finished it! I just bought her newest book and plan to grab the others as well. This was her debut novel. Highly recommended!
Another book that I have had on the shelves since 2010! I started reading this book twice a day while my little Havanese ate her food away from our other two pups. But, it was a fast paced book and I brought it into the family room tonight and finished it! I just bought her newest book and plan to grab the others as well. This was her debut novel. Highly recommended!
27Dianekeenoy
12. Dance for the Dead by Thomas Perry - 5 stars
Read this book straight through today! This Jane Whitefield series is incredible! Can't wait to start book 3!
Read this book straight through today! This Jane Whitefield series is incredible! Can't wait to start book 3!
28Dianekeenoy
13. Razorblade Tears by S.A. Cosby - 5 stars
Wow, what a ride! Read this straight through today just taking some breaks to let my nerves settle down! This is definitely not for the faint hearted but it's so good! Highly recommended if you can handle brutal!
Wow, what a ride! Read this straight through today just taking some breaks to let my nerves settle down! This is definitely not for the faint hearted but it's so good! Highly recommended if you can handle brutal!
29Dianekeenoy
14. Hillbilly Elegy by J.D. Vance - 3.5 stars Audiobook
I waited a long time to finally read this. Glad I did but still not quite sure what can be done to help.
I waited a long time to finally read this. Glad I did but still not quite sure what can be done to help.
30Dianekeenoy
15. Last House on the Street by Diane Chamberlain - 4.5 stars
You can never go wrong with a Diane Chamberlain book and this is no exception!
You can never go wrong with a Diane Chamberlain book and this is no exception!
31Dianekeenoy
16. The Clover Girls by Viola Shipman - 3.5 stars
While The Heirloom Garden still remains my favorite book by Viola Shipman (Wade), this is another sweet book that I have found to read between my regular reads of thrillers, horror and dystopian stories! I probably would have enjoyed this book more if I had ever been to camp as a camper! I was a camp counselor for 2 years but I don't think it's the same experience.
While The Heirloom Garden still remains my favorite book by Viola Shipman (Wade), this is another sweet book that I have found to read between my regular reads of thrillers, horror and dystopian stories! I probably would have enjoyed this book more if I had ever been to camp as a camper! I was a camp counselor for 2 years but I don't think it's the same experience.
33Dianekeenoy
18. Once There Were Wolves by Charlotte McConaghy - 4.5 stars
I really didn't want to read this book since any book about wolves never works out for the wolves. However, this was the January read for one of my book clubs so I read it. It was excellent although not for the faint of heart...but, highly recommended.
I really didn't want to read this book since any book about wolves never works out for the wolves. However, this was the January read for one of my book clubs so I read it. It was excellent although not for the faint of heart...but, highly recommended.
34Dianekeenoy
19. One Step Too Far by Lisa Gardener - 5 stars
Second book with Frankie Elkin who knows how to find people. I literally read this book straight through with one quick break! Just as good as Before She Disappeared. Highly recommended!
Second book with Frankie Elkin who knows how to find people. I literally read this book straight through with one quick break! Just as good as Before She Disappeared. Highly recommended!
35Dianekeenoy
20. The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis - 3.5 stars
I love Fiona Davis and her books. I own the hard copy but decided to listen to it on audio. Although, I really did like the book, the parts that took place in 1952 got on my nerves a little, not sure if it was the narrator or the characters. Perhaps, I will read the book in the future and see if that's better for me. Still a good read, though.
I love Fiona Davis and her books. I own the hard copy but decided to listen to it on audio. Although, I really did like the book, the parts that took place in 1952 got on my nerves a little, not sure if it was the narrator or the characters. Perhaps, I will read the book in the future and see if that's better for me. Still a good read, though.
36PaulCranswick
My word Diane that is a fair number of five star reads!
These Silent Woods is one I will surely look out for.
These Silent Woods is one I will surely look out for.
37Dianekeenoy
This has been a great reading month, didn't read as many as usual but so many really good books! There are still 2 days so maybe I can fit in another one or two. Today, we didn't get the heavy snow they got along the coastline only about 4 or 5 inches but the temperatures with the wind were just brutal. I don't think it got above 9 degrees today. Heading down to 3 degrees later which is better than the -6 we've been getting! I feel like Pennsylvania was very polite last year to make sure we stayed but now the honeymoon is over and it decided to really let us know what the winter is really like! Anyway, other than having to take the 3 pups out and then warming them back up after each outing, it's great weather to read!
38Dianekeenoy
>36 PaulCranswick: Hi Paul, so many great books this month! I am thrilled! I got These Silent Woods as an ARC from my library book club and it was a real surprise at how good it was. Hope you are doing well!
40Dianekeenoy
22. Shadow Woman by Thomas Perry - 4.5 stars
Book 3 of the Jane Whitefield series, just so exciting!!! Ready to dive into Book 4!
Book 3 of the Jane Whitefield series, just so exciting!!! Ready to dive into Book 4!
42Dianekeenoy
24. Quicksilver by Dean Koontz - 3 stars
I am a huge fan and own every book written by Dean Koontz. This one just got on my nerves.
I am a huge fan and own every book written by Dean Koontz. This one just got on my nerves.
43Dianekeenoy
25. Face-Changers by Thomas Perry - 4.5 stars
Book 4 of the Jane Whitefield series, they continue to be unputdownable! Can't wait to move on to the next one!
Book 4 of the Jane Whitefield series, they continue to be unputdownable! Can't wait to move on to the next one!
45Dianekeenoy
27. The Address by Fiona Davis - 4 stars
I really enjoyed this book, it started off a little slow but then it pulled me in and kept me listening way after my bedtime!
I really enjoyed this book, it started off a little slow but then it pulled me in and kept me listening way after my bedtime!
49Dianekeenoy
31. The Anomaly by Herve Le Tellier - 4 stars
Interesting concept...still trying to figure out the ending! I was hoping someone here had figured it out already, but not yet!
ARC from local library.
Interesting concept...still trying to figure out the ending! I was hoping someone here had figured it out already, but not yet!
ARC from local library.
50Dianekeenoy
32. Find Me by Alafair Burke - 4 stars
I'm always happy to get Alafair Burke's books! Read it straight through and enjoyed every word!
I'm always happy to get Alafair Burke's books! Read it straight through and enjoyed every word!
51Dianekeenoy
Time to take a break, back to finish putting in last 6 books. Hard to believe but we're finally packing up the Dickens Village until next Christmas. Had to spread them through 3 rooms since this house is smaller than our other house where it fit into one room. But, it was nice to see them in the family room, the office and the guest room!
52Dianekeenoy
33. The Book of Hope by Jane Goodall
I'm not comfortable rating this book...after all, it's Jane Goodall. I'm glad that I listened to it and certainly glad it was written!
I'm not comfortable rating this book...after all, it's Jane Goodall. I'm glad that I listened to it and certainly glad it was written!
53Dianekeenoy
34. The Collective by Alison Gaylin - 4 stars
Well, I didn't see that ending coming! Excellent thriller!
Well, I didn't see that ending coming! Excellent thriller!
54Dianekeenoy
35. Blood Money by Thomas Perry - 4.5 stars
Another great read! Book 5 of the Jane Whitefield series!
Another great read! Book 5 of the Jane Whitefield series!
55Dianekeenoy
36. The School for Good Mothers by Jessamine Chan - 3.5 stars
Parts of this book were very good. However, for me, there were parts that weren't.
Parts of this book were very good. However, for me, there were parts that weren't.
56Dianekeenoy
37. The Summer Cottage by Viola Shipman - 3.5 stars
I love these books. I listened to this one on audio before I went to sleep at night which was fine but I feel like I enjoy these books better when I read them.
I love these books. I listened to this one on audio before I went to sleep at night which was fine but I feel like I enjoy these books better when I read them.
58Dianekeenoy
39. The Dead Don't Dance by Charles Martin - 4 stars
Just getting into Charles Martin's books. This one was excellent!
Just getting into Charles Martin's books. This one was excellent!
59Dianekeenoy
40. Runner by Thomas Perry - 4.5 stars
Book 6 of the Jane Whitefield series! Just so good, impossible to put down!
Book 6 of the Jane Whitefield series! Just so good, impossible to put down!
61Dianekeenoy
42. The Madness of Crowds by Louis Penny - 5 stars
These books are just amazing, especially on audio!
These books are just amazing, especially on audio!
62Dianekeenoy
43. The Newcomer by Mary Kay Andrews - 4.5 stars
Fun, fast moving book! I read it straight through and really enjoyed it!
Fun, fast moving book! I read it straight through and really enjoyed it!
63Dianekeenoy
44. The Hope Chest by Viola Shipman - 4 stars
Another wonderful story from Viola Shipman aka Wade Rouse.
Another wonderful story from Viola Shipman aka Wade Rouse.
64Dianekeenoy
45. The Husbands by Chandler Baker - 4 stars
Even though it was pretty easy to see where this book was heading, it was still a fun read! What if your husband didn't need to be told what he could do to help? Would it be worth it? While getting close to the end of this book, my husband walked through the room and encouraged me to keep reading and finish the book while he toasted a bagel for me. Yikes, this book made that seem very suspicious to me...
Even though it was pretty easy to see where this book was heading, it was still a fun read! What if your husband didn't need to be told what he could do to help? Would it be worth it? While getting close to the end of this book, my husband walked through the room and encouraged me to keep reading and finish the book while he toasted a bagel for me. Yikes, this book made that seem very suspicious to me...
65Whisper1
>26 Dianekeenoy: Hi Friend. I miss you and hope you are well! I know I was tempted to put all your books on my tbr pile, but for now, I chose Still Missing by Chevy Stevens and These Silent Woods by Kimi Cunningham Grant.
66Dianekeenoy
>65 Whisper1: Hi Linda! I miss you as well! I can't wait until your pain pump is working perfectly and we can get back to our book forays! Talk soon!
67Dianekeenoy
46. Every Waking Hour by Joanna Schaffhausen - 4.5 stars
Great, another incredible series that I just started at Book 4! I didn't know! I definitely will be getting the first three! Not a book that can be easily put down!
Great, another incredible series that I just started at Book 4! I didn't know! I definitely will be getting the first three! Not a book that can be easily put down!
68Dianekeenoy
47. A Great Reckoning by Louise Penny - 4.5 stars
I am loving these books, especially on audio! I know that I am late to the party but so glad to be reading and listening to these amazing books!
I am loving these books, especially on audio! I know that I am late to the party but so glad to be reading and listening to these amazing books!
69Dianekeenoy
48. What Happens in Paradise - by Elin Hilderbrand - 3.5 stars
Book 2 of a trilogy, held my interest on audio as a bedtime listen. On to book 3.
Book 2 of a trilogy, held my interest on audio as a bedtime listen. On to book 3.
70Dianekeenoy
49. Pieces of Her by Karin Slaughter - 4 stars
I wanted to read this before I watched the series on Netflix. It really held my interest from beginning to end!
I wanted to read this before I watched the series on Netflix. It really held my interest from beginning to end!
71Dianekeenoy
50. Our House by Louise Candlish - 4 stars
I was reading this book twice a day while my little Havanese ate her meals. Today, I brought it into the family room and finished it! Very good
I was reading this book twice a day while my little Havanese ate her meals. Today, I brought it into the family room and finished it! Very good
72Dianekeenoy
51. The Quiet People by Paul Cleave - 4.5 stars
This is Paul Cleave's newest book. I preordered it, it arrived and now I have already finished it! Luckily, when I read my first book by him, I bought all of his books! So, I have a lot to look forward to! This book is about a successful crime writing couple whose challenging 7 year old son, Zach, disappears. Did they pull off the perfect crime?
This is Paul Cleave's newest book. I preordered it, it arrived and now I have already finished it! Luckily, when I read my first book by him, I bought all of his books! So, I have a lot to look forward to! This book is about a successful crime writing couple whose challenging 7 year old son, Zach, disappears. Did they pull off the perfect crime?
73Dianekeenoy
52. Troubles in Paradise by Elin Hilderbrand - 4 stars
The last book in the trilogy, a nice conclusion! Enjoyed listening far too late in the night.
The last book in the trilogy, a nice conclusion! Enjoyed listening far too late in the night.
74Dianekeenoy
53. Girl in Ice by Erica Ferencik - 4 stars
It did seem to take a long time to get moving but once it did, I read it straight through!
It did seem to take a long time to get moving but once it did, I read it straight through!
75Dianekeenoy
54. Her Hidden Genius by Marie Benedict - 4 stars
I always enjoy Marie Benedict's books and this is no exception! I didn't know anything about Rosalind Franklin and her work with DNA so enjoyed reading this book. Actually sat down and read it straight through today!
I always enjoy Marie Benedict's books and this is no exception! I didn't know anything about Rosalind Franklin and her work with DNA so enjoyed reading this book. Actually sat down and read it straight through today!
76Dianekeenoy
55. City of the Dead by Jonathan Kellerman - 4 stars
I always enjoy Jonathan Kellerman's books! I've been listening to them on audio at bedtime and this one kept me awake much longer than expected!
I always enjoy Jonathan Kellerman's books! I've been listening to them on audio at bedtime and this one kept me awake much longer than expected!
78Dianekeenoy
57. The Family Upstairs by Lisa Jewell - 4.5 stars
I really liked Then She Was Gone so was looking forward to reading The Family Upstairs. And, it did not disappoint! Libby Jones receives a letter on her 25th birthday that tells her the identity of her birth parents and also is now the sole inheritor of an abandoned mansion. But...there are others who have also been waiting for this birthday. Hard to put down, I couldn't wait to pick back up each day while my little Havanese ate away from her siblings! I finally just brought it into the family room and finished it!
I really liked Then She Was Gone so was looking forward to reading The Family Upstairs. And, it did not disappoint! Libby Jones receives a letter on her 25th birthday that tells her the identity of her birth parents and also is now the sole inheritor of an abandoned mansion. But...there are others who have also been waiting for this birthday. Hard to put down, I couldn't wait to pick back up each day while my little Havanese ate away from her siblings! I finally just brought it into the family room and finished it!
79Dianekeenoy
58. If She Knew by Blake Pierce - 4 stars
Well, this kept me up way too long last night! Kate Wise retired from the FBI a year ago at the age of 55 and she's not too thrilled about it. When one of her friends' daughter is murdered, she's asked to help look into it by her friend. No one's happy about this but Kate was a top agent and eventually is temporarily reinstated for this case. She's to work with a young up and coming agent who is much like herself 30 years ago. Fast moving and guess what...Book 1 of a series! I will definitely go on to book 2!
Well, this kept me up way too long last night! Kate Wise retired from the FBI a year ago at the age of 55 and she's not too thrilled about it. When one of her friends' daughter is murdered, she's asked to help look into it by her friend. No one's happy about this but Kate was a top agent and eventually is temporarily reinstated for this case. She's to work with a young up and coming agent who is much like herself 30 years ago. Fast moving and guess what...Book 1 of a series! I will definitely go on to book 2!
80Dianekeenoy
59. The Weekend by Charlotte Wood - 4 stars
Well, it looks like people either love this book or hate it! It's a short book about 3 friends in their 70s who have lost an important member of their group. They're meeting at her beach house to clean it out before it is sold and spend one last Christmas in the house. Without the presence of Sylvie everything shifts and the remaining three must decide how their very long friendship will continue to go on...or not.
Well, it looks like people either love this book or hate it! It's a short book about 3 friends in their 70s who have lost an important member of their group. They're meeting at her beach house to clean it out before it is sold and spend one last Christmas in the house. Without the presence of Sylvie everything shifts and the remaining three must decide how their very long friendship will continue to go on...or not.
81Dianekeenoy
60. The Lost Apothecaryby Sarah Penner - 4 stars
I wasn't sure I would like this book at first on audio. However, once I got into it, it certainly held my interest especially the storyline about Nella and Eliza set in the late 1700s.
I wasn't sure I would like this book at first on audio. However, once I got into it, it certainly held my interest especially the storyline about Nella and Eliza set in the late 1700s.
82Dianekeenoy
Okay, I wanted to get caught up on books read so I could start adding all of my new books to my inventory. This has been a very good year for reading, I'm reading some very good books and have so many excellent new books watching to see which one I will choose next!
I receive a signed first edition every month from Ann Patchett's book store, Parnassus Books. And, I recently signed up again after many years for the Book of the Month club which is so much fun! This way I'm guaranteed several boxes a month to make me feel like it's either my birthday or Christmas again and again! You have to just make your own happiness in this world.
We'll be having Easter dinner for the first time in several years with my husband's family and there are three new babies/toddlers that we haven't even met on Saturday. Then, my daughters and their families are coming here on Sunday for our own little Easter dinner. It will be so wonderful to see our families again. While my daughters have been part of our small group during the pandemic, Kevin's family is so large that none of us felt safe until recently.
I'm working several Saturdays a month at my new library sale room here in Pennsylvania which is so much fun! I get to see what books are available and so far haven't come home empty handed yet! I'm still connected to my library where we used to live, my two book clubs are there, so there's double the opportunity to find and take out books! They also just switched over to Hoopla from Cloud Library and that has given me so many audiobook choices along with Libby at my new library. I feel like I'm just swimming in books!!
I receive a signed first edition every month from Ann Patchett's book store, Parnassus Books. And, I recently signed up again after many years for the Book of the Month club which is so much fun! This way I'm guaranteed several boxes a month to make me feel like it's either my birthday or Christmas again and again! You have to just make your own happiness in this world.
We'll be having Easter dinner for the first time in several years with my husband's family and there are three new babies/toddlers that we haven't even met on Saturday. Then, my daughters and their families are coming here on Sunday for our own little Easter dinner. It will be so wonderful to see our families again. While my daughters have been part of our small group during the pandemic, Kevin's family is so large that none of us felt safe until recently.
I'm working several Saturdays a month at my new library sale room here in Pennsylvania which is so much fun! I get to see what books are available and so far haven't come home empty handed yet! I'm still connected to my library where we used to live, my two book clubs are there, so there's double the opportunity to find and take out books! They also just switched over to Hoopla from Cloud Library and that has given me so many audiobook choices along with Libby at my new library. I feel like I'm just swimming in books!!
84johnsimpson
Hi Diane my dear, some great books that you have read recently. I hope that Jeffrey is feeling better today and we both send you and the family and the Dogs, love and hugs dear friend.
85Dianekeenoy
>83 drneutron: Thanks! That was a really good book!!!!
86Dianekeenoy
>84 johnsimpson: Hi John! I am having a great reading year!!!! Jeffrey is definitely feeling better and after his grooming yesterday looks a lot better!!! Love to you and Karen!!!
87Dianekeenoy
61. The Favorite Daughter by Patti Callahan Henry - 4 stars
Loved this book! Another wonderful read from one of my new favorite authors from the Friends and Fiction group!
Loved this book! Another wonderful read from one of my new favorite authors from the Friends and Fiction group!
88Dianekeenoy
62. The Harbor by Katrine Engberg - 4 stars
Another good installment of the Korner and Werner series!
I just love these Scandinavian noir books!
Another good installment of the Korner and Werner series!
I just love these Scandinavian noir books!
89Dianekeenoy
63.) A Harmless Lie by Sara Blaedel - 4 stars
The newest installment of the Detective Louise Rick series from Sara Blaedel. Not sure if she's using a new translator or that I have gotten used to the translation! Anyway, my primary issue was always some startling expressions that I figured had to do with the translation. Very good mystery and additional information on Louise Rick and her decisions regarding her personal life and work life.
The newest installment of the Detective Louise Rick series from Sara Blaedel. Not sure if she's using a new translator or that I have gotten used to the translation! Anyway, my primary issue was always some startling expressions that I figured had to do with the translation. Very good mystery and additional information on Louise Rick and her decisions regarding her personal life and work life.
90Dianekeenoy
64. The Rose Code by Kate Quinn - 4.5 stars
An excellent book! Completely held my interest and kept me up way past my bedtime!!
An excellent book! Completely held my interest and kept me up way past my bedtime!!
91Dianekeenoy
65. The Unsinkable Greta James by Jennifer E. Smith - 4 stars
A solid 4 stars! Greta’s mother has recently passed away. Her parents had planned an Alaskan cruise to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. Her father, Conrad is going on the cruise anyway with their friends. Greta’s brother talks her into going so their father won’t be alone. Needless to say Greta and her father have a difficult relationship. He doesn’t approve of her musical career. Her mother was always her biggest fan.
I picked up this ARC for several reasons, the cruise to Alaska being the biggest one. Another was the other primary character, Ben Wilder who’s an author and will be giving several talks on board. While there is some romance, it wasn’t enough to put me off (romance being my least favorite genre!) enjoying this book. I really loved all the characters and got a kick out of Greta being a really bad-ass guitar player! She had a major melt down after losing her mother and has to find a way to get back on stage and perform as well as trying to find a new way to relate to her father. Very enjoyable and I definitely recommend!
ARC from my local library.
A solid 4 stars! Greta’s mother has recently passed away. Her parents had planned an Alaskan cruise to celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary. Her father, Conrad is going on the cruise anyway with their friends. Greta’s brother talks her into going so their father won’t be alone. Needless to say Greta and her father have a difficult relationship. He doesn’t approve of her musical career. Her mother was always her biggest fan.
I picked up this ARC for several reasons, the cruise to Alaska being the biggest one. Another was the other primary character, Ben Wilder who’s an author and will be giving several talks on board. While there is some romance, it wasn’t enough to put me off (romance being my least favorite genre!) enjoying this book. I really loved all the characters and got a kick out of Greta being a really bad-ass guitar player! She had a major melt down after losing her mother and has to find a way to get back on stage and perform as well as trying to find a new way to relate to her father. Very enjoyable and I definitely recommend!
ARC from my local library.
92Dianekeenoy
66. What Happened to the Bennetts by Lisa Scottoline - 4.5 stars
Wow, what a ride! A horrifying encounter with gangsters changes this family's life forever. Quickly whisked into Witness Protection by the FBI, Jason Bennett realizes that WITSEC was designed to protect criminal informants, not law-abiding families. Trapped in an unfamiliar life, the Bennett family starts to fall apart. Jason is forced to take matters into his own hands to get justice.
Wow, what a ride! A horrifying encounter with gangsters changes this family's life forever. Quickly whisked into Witness Protection by the FBI, Jason Bennett realizes that WITSEC was designed to protect criminal informants, not law-abiding families. Trapped in an unfamiliar life, the Bennett family starts to fall apart. Jason is forced to take matters into his own hands to get justice.
93Dianekeenoy
67. The Overnight Guest by Heather Gudenkauf - 4.5 stars
Another excellent thriller from Heather Gudenkauf! I literally read it straight through! True crime writer Wylie Lark is staying at a very isolated farmhouse during a bitter snowstorm. Really, what could possibly go wrong!!!? She finds a small injured child just outside in the snow. After she brings the child inside she begins looking for answers and starts to discover the farmhouse is as isolated as she thought.
Another excellent thriller from Heather Gudenkauf! I literally read it straight through! True crime writer Wylie Lark is staying at a very isolated farmhouse during a bitter snowstorm. Really, what could possibly go wrong!!!? She finds a small injured child just outside in the snow. After she brings the child inside she begins looking for answers and starts to discover the farmhouse is as isolated as she thought.
94Dianekeenoy
68. Sister Stardust by Jane Green - 3.5 stars
This was okay, kind of like the sixties themselves, shallow and hedonistic.
This was okay, kind of like the sixties themselves, shallow and hedonistic.
95Dianekeenoy
69. The Alice Network by Kate Quinn - 4 stars
I've had this book on my shelf for a long time. I decided to listen to it on audio instead. While it did take me several nights listening before bed (I went right to sleep!), it then kept me up very late until I finished it! Glad I finally read/listened to it!
I've had this book on my shelf for a long time. I decided to listen to it on audio instead. While it did take me several nights listening before bed (I went right to sleep!), it then kept me up very late until I finished it! Glad I finally read/listened to it!
97Dianekeenoy
71. The Second Life of Mirielle West by Amanda Skenandore - 4 stars
This story set in the 1920's follows the life of Mirielle West, a well-to-do socialite in California who goes to the doctor for a burn and finds herself in a boxcar taking her to a leprosy institution in Louisiana. I had no idea there had been such a place in the US. I listened to this on audio but I think it might have been even better reading it.
This story set in the 1920's follows the life of Mirielle West, a well-to-do socialite in California who goes to the doctor for a burn and finds herself in a boxcar taking her to a leprosy institution in Louisiana. I had no idea there had been such a place in the US. I listened to this on audio but I think it might have been even better reading it.
98Dianekeenoy
72. Heartsick by Chelsea Cain - 4.5 stars
I had these books for years but donated them when we moved. What was I thinking!!? So, listened to this on audio which was excellent! It's definitely not for the faint of heart, especially when it flashes back to when Gretchen had kidnapped the lead detective, Archie Sheridan! On to book 2! I will think twice before donating any of my books that I haven't read!
I had these books for years but donated them when we moved. What was I thinking!!? So, listened to this on audio which was excellent! It's definitely not for the faint of heart, especially when it flashes back to when Gretchen had kidnapped the lead detective, Archie Sheridan! On to book 2! I will think twice before donating any of my books that I haven't read!
99Dianekeenoy
73. Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callahan - 4 stars
I'm so glad that I took my time with this book. I read several chapters a day in the bedroom while my little Havanese ate her meals! I didn't know that much about C.S. Lewis and even less about Joy Davidson! What an incredible story!
I'm so glad that I took my time with this book. I read several chapters a day in the bedroom while my little Havanese ate her meals! I didn't know that much about C.S. Lewis and even less about Joy Davidson! What an incredible story!
100Dianekeenoy
74. Her Last Affair by John Searles - 4 stars
Three storylines and each one is fascinating! The way they wind around each other will keep you in your seat reading leaving your errands undone! My first book by John Searles but definitely not my last one!
Three storylines and each one is fascinating! The way they wind around each other will keep you in your seat reading leaving your errands undone! My first book by John Searles but definitely not my last one!
101Dianekeenoy
75. Not a Sound by Heather Gudenkauf - 4 stars
I've become a fan of Heather Gudenkauf and have ordered her other books. The main character is an emergency room nurse who was severely injured and lost her hearing. After two years with a serious drinking problem, her husband tells her to leave. She's working hard with her service dog, Stitch, and her childhood friend, Jake, a detective to get her life back in order. Then, an old friend of hers turns up dead in the river she paddle boards in. Then, it's off to the races to figure out who killed her before the killer strikes again. I want to learn Czech so I can tell my little pups to kemne (come) or zabit (kill)!
I've become a fan of Heather Gudenkauf and have ordered her other books. The main character is an emergency room nurse who was severely injured and lost her hearing. After two years with a serious drinking problem, her husband tells her to leave. She's working hard with her service dog, Stitch, and her childhood friend, Jake, a detective to get her life back in order. Then, an old friend of hers turns up dead in the river she paddle boards in. Then, it's off to the races to figure out who killed her before the killer strikes again. I want to learn Czech so I can tell my little pups to kemne (come) or zabit (kill)!
102Dianekeenoy
76. Last Seen Alive by Joanna Schaffhausen - 5 stars
Wow, this author can write!!! I've read book 4 and now book 5 in the Ellery Hathaway series. I just bought the first three books in the series and look forward to backtracking into Ellery Hathaway's story! This book had me riveted and my husband had to bring me snacks to keep up my strength! At several points, I literally had to get up and just catch my breath! Needless to say, this is one scary (and some happy!) rollercoaster ride! Highly recommended! Although, if you're a perfectionist you might want to start at book 1!
Wow, this author can write!!! I've read book 4 and now book 5 in the Ellery Hathaway series. I just bought the first three books in the series and look forward to backtracking into Ellery Hathaway's story! This book had me riveted and my husband had to bring me snacks to keep up my strength! At several points, I literally had to get up and just catch my breath! Needless to say, this is one scary (and some happy!) rollercoaster ride! Highly recommended! Although, if you're a perfectionist you might want to start at book 1!
103Dianekeenoy
77. The Ocean in Winter by Elizabeth De Veer - 3.5 stars
A novel about three sisters who lose their mother to suicide while they are young are struggling as adults. I listened to this on audio but now wonder if I should have read it instead. It gets off to a slow start and sometimes the narrator(s) (there are 3) would get on my nerves. But, then I found my rhythm and it started holding my interest.
A novel about three sisters who lose their mother to suicide while they are young are struggling as adults. I listened to this on audio but now wonder if I should have read it instead. It gets off to a slow start and sometimes the narrator(s) (there are 3) would get on my nerves. But, then I found my rhythm and it started holding my interest.
104Dianekeenoy
78. The Lioness by Chris Bohjalian - 5 stars
I am a huge fan of Chris Bohjalian and own all of his books. This book arrived day before yesterday. I took a quick peek at chapter one and just completely fell into this story! I have just finished it here in the Toyota waiting room waiting for the brakes to be replaced on the truck and literally forgot I was here...I felt like I was in the Serengeti seeing the amazing animals and trying to stay alive! Just incredible, so highly recommended!
I am a huge fan of Chris Bohjalian and own all of his books. This book arrived day before yesterday. I took a quick peek at chapter one and just completely fell into this story! I have just finished it here in the Toyota waiting room waiting for the brakes to be replaced on the truck and literally forgot I was here...I felt like I was in the Serengeti seeing the amazing animals and trying to stay alive! Just incredible, so highly recommended!
105Dianekeenoy
79. Bring Her Home by Davi Bell - 3.5 stars
This book definitely kept me reading. However, it's the morning after that the questions kept popping up in my mind...how did that body get in the casket, why weren't the boys questioned more seriously, what was the point of the weird guy in the woods? Still, I have to say it kept me reading!
This book definitely kept me reading. However, it's the morning after that the questions kept popping up in my mind...how did that body get in the casket, why weren't the boys questioned more seriously, what was the point of the weird guy in the woods? Still, I have to say it kept me reading!
106Dianekeenoy
80. Black Cake by Charmaine Wilkerson - 4 stars
This was especially good on audio! The narrator did an excellent job with the multiple voices and accents. Kept me up too many nights past my bedtime!
This was especially good on audio! The narrator did an excellent job with the multiple voices and accents. Kept me up too many nights past my bedtime!
107Dianekeenoy
81. On a Night of a Thousand Stars by Andrea Yaryura Clark - 4 stars
I had trouble settling down with this book at first but once I gave it a chance, it pulled me right in. Full report to follow...
I had trouble settling down with this book at first but once I gave it a chance, it pulled me right in. Full report to follow...
108Dianekeenoy
82. Where the Forest Meets the Stars by Glendy Vanderah - 4.5 stars
A mysterious little girl, Ursa, shows up at the cabin where Joanna is doing her graduate research on nesting birds. She claims she has been sent from the stars to witness five miracles before she has to return. What a wonderful book, it's Glendy Vanderah's debut novel, definitely an author to watch!!!
A mysterious little girl, Ursa, shows up at the cabin where Joanna is doing her graduate research on nesting birds. She claims she has been sent from the stars to witness five miracles before she has to return. What a wonderful book, it's Glendy Vanderah's debut novel, definitely an author to watch!!!
109Dianekeenoy
83. Small Pleasures by Clare Chambers - 4.5 stars
I got this book recommendation quite awhile ago from Mary Loves Books who I believe is in Ireland. I was finally able to get it (twice because I forgot I had already ordered it!) and just finished it! Set in 1957, it features Jean Swinney as a featured editor at a small local paper in the suburbs of London. Almost 40 years old, Jean leads a small life working and caring for her very demanding mother. Everything changes when a young woman, Gretchen Tilbury contacts the paper claiming her daughter is the result of a virgin birth. What an exquisite book, both a mystery and a love story, Small Pleasures celebrates the beauty and potential for joy in all things plain and unfashionable! Highly recommended! And, the cover is beautiful, too!
I got this book recommendation quite awhile ago from Mary Loves Books who I believe is in Ireland. I was finally able to get it (twice because I forgot I had already ordered it!) and just finished it! Set in 1957, it features Jean Swinney as a featured editor at a small local paper in the suburbs of London. Almost 40 years old, Jean leads a small life working and caring for her very demanding mother. Everything changes when a young woman, Gretchen Tilbury contacts the paper claiming her daughter is the result of a virgin birth. What an exquisite book, both a mystery and a love story, Small Pleasures celebrates the beauty and potential for joy in all things plain and unfashionable! Highly recommended! And, the cover is beautiful, too!
110Dianekeenoy
84. The Lost Summers of Newport by Beatriz Williams & others - 4 stars
A perfect summer read with three timelines. 2019 has Andie Figuero working as a producer on a popular reality show about restoring lavish historical mansions. 1899 has Ellen Daniels hired to give singing lessons to a young heiress, Maybelle Sprague to launch her into an arranged marriage to an Italian prince. And, the third set in 1957 with Lucky Sprague and her grandmother, the American-born Princess di Conti who fled Mussolini's Italy and returned to Sprague Hall. Newport, RI is the real star of this book!
A perfect summer read with three timelines. 2019 has Andie Figuero working as a producer on a popular reality show about restoring lavish historical mansions. 1899 has Ellen Daniels hired to give singing lessons to a young heiress, Maybelle Sprague to launch her into an arranged marriage to an Italian prince. And, the third set in 1957 with Lucky Sprague and her grandmother, the American-born Princess di Conti who fled Mussolini's Italy and returned to Sprague Hall. Newport, RI is the real star of this book!
111Dianekeenoy
85. Every Cloak Rolled in Blood by James Lee Burke - 4.5 stars
I recently bought this book in hardcover but decided to listen to it first since I love Will Patten as a narrator. Listening to this book late at night while everyone in the house was sleeping added to the ghostly quality of this story. James Lee Burke has called this novel his most autobiographical to date. JLB lost his daughter, Pamala about two years ago, our main character Aaron Holland Broussard has lost his daughter, Fannie May. He tries to honor her memory by saving two young men from a life of crime in their opioid-ravaged community. By doing this, he's drawn into so much evil, it's truly overwhelming. The pain radiating from this novel is physical for the reader. JLB has been called "America's best novelist" and after reading and listening to his books most of my life, I completely agree with this. I will be reading the physical book as well and expect to find things I missed in the audio because of the many layers he weaves in this story.
I recently bought this book in hardcover but decided to listen to it first since I love Will Patten as a narrator. Listening to this book late at night while everyone in the house was sleeping added to the ghostly quality of this story. James Lee Burke has called this novel his most autobiographical to date. JLB lost his daughter, Pamala about two years ago, our main character Aaron Holland Broussard has lost his daughter, Fannie May. He tries to honor her memory by saving two young men from a life of crime in their opioid-ravaged community. By doing this, he's drawn into so much evil, it's truly overwhelming. The pain radiating from this novel is physical for the reader. JLB has been called "America's best novelist" and after reading and listening to his books most of my life, I completely agree with this. I will be reading the physical book as well and expect to find things I missed in the audio because of the many layers he weaves in this story.
112Dianekeenoy
86. The Children on the Hill by Jennifer McMahon - 4 stars
Set in two time lines, 1978 and 2019, the story starts at a renowned treatment center in Vermont and also ends there. Dr. Helen Hildreth is a brilliant psychiatrist working with the mentally ill. She lives on the grounds with her two grandchildren, Violet and Eric. Then one day she brings home a child to stay with the family, a child that does not behave like a normal girl. Fast forward to 2019 where Lizzy Shelley, the host of a popular podcast, Monsters Among Us is traveling to Vermont where a young girl has been abducted and a monster has been sighted. Lizzy is determined to hunt it down because she knows better than anyone that monsters are real - and one of them is her own sister.
Set in two time lines, 1978 and 2019, the story starts at a renowned treatment center in Vermont and also ends there. Dr. Helen Hildreth is a brilliant psychiatrist working with the mentally ill. She lives on the grounds with her two grandchildren, Violet and Eric. Then one day she brings home a child to stay with the family, a child that does not behave like a normal girl. Fast forward to 2019 where Lizzy Shelley, the host of a popular podcast, Monsters Among Us is traveling to Vermont where a young girl has been abducted and a monster has been sighted. Lizzy is determined to hunt it down because she knows better than anyone that monsters are real - and one of them is her own sister.
113Dianekeenoy
87. Girl, Alone by Blake Pierce - 3.5 stars
Book 1 in a series featuring Ella Dark as a rookie FBI agent who has been studying her whole life to take down serial killers. This would have been a 4 star read for me but the senior FBI agent who takes Ella under her wing let a rookie take too many chances. Still, overall a good read and I will read the second book.
Book 1 in a series featuring Ella Dark as a rookie FBI agent who has been studying her whole life to take down serial killers. This would have been a 4 star read for me but the senior FBI agent who takes Ella under her wing let a rookie take too many chances. Still, overall a good read and I will read the second book.
114Dianekeenoy
88. The Messy Lives of Book People by Phaedra Patrick - 4 stars
A good audiobook about a house cleaner, Liv, who wants to be a writer. She works for Essie who is writing her 20th book and isn't enjoying her work like she used to.
A good audiobook about a house cleaner, Liv, who wants to be a writer. She works for Essie who is writing her 20th book and isn't enjoying her work like she used to.
115Dianekeenoy
89. At Least You Have Your Health by Madi Sinha - 4 stars
Dr. Maya Rao is a GYN with 3 children, a happy marriage and a career. Unfortunately, after a disastrous encounter with a patient, she's forced to leave the big hospital where she's spent her whole career. After she meets Amelia at her daughter's new school, she's offered a job with a women's concierge service. This book made me laugh out loud more than once while still tackling some serious subjects.
Dr. Maya Rao is a GYN with 3 children, a happy marriage and a career. Unfortunately, after a disastrous encounter with a patient, she's forced to leave the big hospital where she's spent her whole career. After she meets Amelia at her daughter's new school, she's offered a job with a women's concierge service. This book made me laugh out loud more than once while still tackling some serious subjects.
116Dianekeenoy
90. Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett - 4 stars
This book is just delightful! Emma Starling has returned home to NH from California where she didn't attend medical school like her family thought. She's come home to care for for her father, Clive Starling who has a brain disease and is hallucinating small animals as well as the ghost of a long dead naturalist, Ernest Harold Baynes. When Emma gets home, she's shocked to find that her former best friend is missing and no one is looking for her except for her father. I definitely look forward to reading Annie Hartnett's first book, Rabbit Cake!
This book is just delightful! Emma Starling has returned home to NH from California where she didn't attend medical school like her family thought. She's come home to care for for her father, Clive Starling who has a brain disease and is hallucinating small animals as well as the ghost of a long dead naturalist, Ernest Harold Baynes. When Emma gets home, she's shocked to find that her former best friend is missing and no one is looking for her except for her father. I definitely look forward to reading Annie Hartnett's first book, Rabbit Cake!
117FAMeulstee
>101 Dianekeenoy: Congratulations on reaching 75, Diane!
118Dianekeenoy
>117 FAMeulstee: Thank you so much!
119Dianekeenoy
91. The Sign for Home by Blair Fell - 4.5 stars
“Arlo Dilly is young, handsome, and eager to meet the right girl. He also happens to be DeafBlind, a Jehovah’s Witness, and under the strict guardianship of his controlling uncle.” I learned quite a bit about the DeafBlind and how much they depend on their translators to handle many of their needs. Although, I did know of American Sign Language and Tactile ASL, there are two additional languages developed by the DeafBlind in Seattle called Protactile expression and Haptics. The information included in this very entertaining story is really amazing and really adds to the the enjoyment of this book.
In addition to being Deaf and Blind, Arlo has lost his mother and now lives with his uncle in a strict, joyless Jehovah Witness house. His present interpreter, Molly has been working with him for ten years under the guidance of the uncle. When Arlo is allowed to go to college for a writing course, he needs another interpreter since the work is too difficult for one person to handle a whole class. His new interpreter, Cyril is gay, agnostic and new to working with the DeafBlind. Cyril is everything that Arlo is not and quickly realizes that Arlo’s understanding of language, life, and even love has been governed and censored by his former interpreter and guardian. This is a book that hits all the feels and keeps you telling anyone unlucky enough to be in the same room with you while reading this book, “You’re not going to believe this” over and over!
“Arlo Dilly is young, handsome, and eager to meet the right girl. He also happens to be DeafBlind, a Jehovah’s Witness, and under the strict guardianship of his controlling uncle.” I learned quite a bit about the DeafBlind and how much they depend on their translators to handle many of their needs. Although, I did know of American Sign Language and Tactile ASL, there are two additional languages developed by the DeafBlind in Seattle called Protactile expression and Haptics. The information included in this very entertaining story is really amazing and really adds to the the enjoyment of this book.
In addition to being Deaf and Blind, Arlo has lost his mother and now lives with his uncle in a strict, joyless Jehovah Witness house. His present interpreter, Molly has been working with him for ten years under the guidance of the uncle. When Arlo is allowed to go to college for a writing course, he needs another interpreter since the work is too difficult for one person to handle a whole class. His new interpreter, Cyril is gay, agnostic and new to working with the DeafBlind. Cyril is everything that Arlo is not and quickly realizes that Arlo’s understanding of language, life, and even love has been governed and censored by his former interpreter and guardian. This is a book that hits all the feels and keeps you telling anyone unlucky enough to be in the same room with you while reading this book, “You’re not going to believe this” over and over!
120Dianekeenoy
92. The Huntress by Kate Quinn - 4 stars
I own the hardcover book but decided to listen to this on audio and I am very glad that I did! The narrator did an incredible job with the different characters and accents. I had never heard about the Night Witches, the all female bomb squad in Russia that bombed the Germans nightly during WWII. Nina is one of the pilots who along with Ian and Tony are hunting one of the most vicious Nazis who has escaped to the United States. Jordan and her father are living in Boston in 1950 when her father marries an Austrian woman with a young daughter. As usual, Kate Quinn does an excellent job holding my interest and keeping me up way too late!
I own the hardcover book but decided to listen to this on audio and I am very glad that I did! The narrator did an incredible job with the different characters and accents. I had never heard about the Night Witches, the all female bomb squad in Russia that bombed the Germans nightly during WWII. Nina is one of the pilots who along with Ian and Tony are hunting one of the most vicious Nazis who has escaped to the United States. Jordan and her father are living in Boston in 1950 when her father marries an Austrian woman with a young daughter. As usual, Kate Quinn does an excellent job holding my interest and keeping me up way too late!
121Dianekeenoy
93. The Lunar Housewife by Caroline Woods- 4 stars
Set in New York City in 1953, this is a frothy (I thought!) story about a young journalist making her way through a man's world in publishing. Louise Leithauser is writing articles for her boyfriend's new literary magazine, Downtown, under a male pseudonym, of course. She's also writing a science fiction romance on the side, The Lunar Housewife. I missed the part that this was historical fiction so imagine my surprise when I read the author's notes that this book was inspired by the true story of the CIA's use of American arts and letters as propaganda during the Cold War. Still a quick fun read!
Set in New York City in 1953, this is a frothy (I thought!) story about a young journalist making her way through a man's world in publishing. Louise Leithauser is writing articles for her boyfriend's new literary magazine, Downtown, under a male pseudonym, of course. She's also writing a science fiction romance on the side, The Lunar Housewife. I missed the part that this was historical fiction so imagine my surprise when I read the author's notes that this book was inspired by the true story of the CIA's use of American arts and letters as propaganda during the Cold War. Still a quick fun read!
125Dianekeenoy
97. The Blackbird by Tim Weaver - 5 stars
I've been reading Tim Weaver's books since his first David Raker novel Chasing The Dead in 2010. I preorder them from England and look forward to each one! This book, his 11th David Raker book is just as good as each of his others! In this book, a young couple, Cate and Aiden Gascoigne are recorded on CCTV laughing and happy. Then, their car plunges into a ravine and catches fire. When the emergency crews arrive, they find the vehicle empty. Cate's family hire David Raker to find out what happened. Empty your schedule, you won't be able to put this book down!
I've been reading Tim Weaver's books since his first David Raker novel Chasing The Dead in 2010. I preorder them from England and look forward to each one! This book, his 11th David Raker book is just as good as each of his others! In this book, a young couple, Cate and Aiden Gascoigne are recorded on CCTV laughing and happy. Then, their car plunges into a ravine and catches fire. When the emergency crews arrive, they find the vehicle empty. Cate's family hire David Raker to find out what happened. Empty your schedule, you won't be able to put this book down!
126Dianekeenoy
98. The Boys by Ron and Clint Howard - 4.5 stars
This was a wonderful book, especially in audio with Ron and Clint Howard reading it! It was so interesting to hear about their upbringing by their actor parents who let their careers slow down when Ron got the role that made him famous as Opie on the Andy Griffith show and Clint in Gentle Ben. Hearing about the people and how things worked on their shows and movies was fascinating especially since we have been watching The Andy Griffith show on MeTV! Highly recommended!
This was a wonderful book, especially in audio with Ron and Clint Howard reading it! It was so interesting to hear about their upbringing by their actor parents who let their careers slow down when Ron got the role that made him famous as Opie on the Andy Griffith show and Clint in Gentle Ben. Hearing about the people and how things worked on their shows and movies was fascinating especially since we have been watching The Andy Griffith show on MeTV! Highly recommended!
127Dianekeenoy
99. The Shore by Katie Runde - 5 stars
This wasn't the summer book I was expecting but I couldn't stop reading it until it was finished! It does take place in Seaside during the summer but it's about a family, Margot and Brian Dunne and their teenage daughters, Liz and Evie. They own a real estate company that rents out their shore houses for the summer months. When Brian develops a brain tumor, his erratic emotions and outbursts become something his wife and daughters need to deal with in addition to trying to keep up with their business and own heartbreak. This book is heartbreaking but it leaves you ultimately uplifted after you finish it. I felt the author got so much right that someone in her family must have had the same time of brain tumor as Brian. In her author notes, she explains that.
This wasn't the summer book I was expecting but I couldn't stop reading it until it was finished! It does take place in Seaside during the summer but it's about a family, Margot and Brian Dunne and their teenage daughters, Liz and Evie. They own a real estate company that rents out their shore houses for the summer months. When Brian develops a brain tumor, his erratic emotions and outbursts become something his wife and daughters need to deal with in addition to trying to keep up with their business and own heartbreak. This book is heartbreaking but it leaves you ultimately uplifted after you finish it. I felt the author got so much right that someone in her family must have had the same time of brain tumor as Brian. In her author notes, she explains that.
128Dianekeenoy
100, All the Wicked Girls by Chris Whitaker - 5 stars
I discovered Chris Whitaker when I read his amazing book, We Begin at the End! I made it my mission to track down his earlier books and read them as well. I read Tall Oaks, his debut novel which was excellent and now have finished his second novel. Another amazing read! While I was reading just several chapters a day I finally just gave up, sat down and read it straight through this afternoon! Another heartbreaking story that you will never be sorry you read!
I discovered Chris Whitaker when I read his amazing book, We Begin at the End! I made it my mission to track down his earlier books and read them as well. I read Tall Oaks, his debut novel which was excellent and now have finished his second novel. Another amazing read! While I was reading just several chapters a day I finally just gave up, sat down and read it straight through this afternoon! Another heartbreaking story that you will never be sorry you read!
129Dianekeenoy
101. The Latecomer by Jean Haniff Korelitz - 4.5 stars
So, this is a very long book and many times I asked myself if I should just stop reading it. Not normally a question I ever ask myself!!! If I don't like a book, I just stop reading it and also I hardly ever dislike a book that I choose to read! But, it kept pulling me back in and on page 313, I finally understood the long intro (for lack of a better word) and could hardly stand to read what was happening! I put the book down several times, told my husband that I just didn't want to be a part of this train derailment but finally got a glass of wine and dove in! Holy moly, geez Louise, what the heck???? Anyway, I absolutely loved this book, there's more surprises along the way and just a wonderful ending!!! So, at the risk of upsetting some people who might run out of patience, (hey, I almost did ) I do highly recommend this book!!!
So, this is a very long book and many times I asked myself if I should just stop reading it. Not normally a question I ever ask myself!!! If I don't like a book, I just stop reading it and also I hardly ever dislike a book that I choose to read! But, it kept pulling me back in and on page 313, I finally understood the long intro (for lack of a better word) and could hardly stand to read what was happening! I put the book down several times, told my husband that I just didn't want to be a part of this train derailment but finally got a glass of wine and dove in! Holy moly, geez Louise, what the heck???? Anyway, I absolutely loved this book, there's more surprises along the way and just a wonderful ending!!! So, at the risk of upsetting some people who might run out of patience, (hey, I almost did ) I do highly recommend this book!!!
130Dianekeenoy
102. The Woman in the Library by Sulari Gentill - 3.5 stars
This book was definitely confusing in the beginning especially on audio. It's a book within a book type story which took me a little time to get used to. But, once I got into it, I listened through most of the night to finish.
This book was definitely confusing in the beginning especially on audio. It's a book within a book type story which took me a little time to get used to. But, once I got into it, I listened through most of the night to finish.
131PaulCranswick
How wonderful to see you back posting Diane and with such a lot in terms of your book reviews to digest.
Congratulations on passing 75 already and I second your admiration of Chris Bohjalian.
Congratulations on passing 75 already and I second your admiration of Chris Bohjalian.
132Dianekeenoy
>131 PaulCranswick: Hi Paul, thanks, it's good to be back! Almost finished posting all my read books and will try to keep up! I love Chris Bohjalian, I've loved all of his books and keep them on my book shelves!
133Dianekeenoy
103. Iona Iverson's Rules for Commuting by Clare Pooley
This was just a wonderful book!!! I read it straight through today! I had to commute for almost two years onto Manhattan and could really relate to this story about a group of commuters after never speaking to anyone on the train started to become close after Mr. Smart-but-Sexist-Manspreader chokes on a grape! This event starts a chain reaction, and a very eclectic group of people learn that talking to strangers can teach you quite a bit about the world around you!!!! Just absolutely loved it!!! Recommended!
This was just a wonderful book!!! I read it straight through today! I had to commute for almost two years onto Manhattan and could really relate to this story about a group of commuters after never speaking to anyone on the train started to become close after Mr. Smart-but-Sexist-Manspreader chokes on a grape! This event starts a chain reaction, and a very eclectic group of people learn that talking to strangers can teach you quite a bit about the world around you!!!! Just absolutely loved it!!! Recommended!
134Dianekeenoy
104. Book Lovers by Emily Henry - 4 stars
I really don't like romance novels and avoid them whenever I can. This is a sneaky romance novel in that it is really funny on audio! The first half had me laughing loudly late at night while listening or driving in the car!! Of course, I can never hate a book about books, either! It does get really romantic at the end and cringey for me but the humor made this a 4 star listen!
I really don't like romance novels and avoid them whenever I can. This is a sneaky romance novel in that it is really funny on audio! The first half had me laughing loudly late at night while listening or driving in the car!! Of course, I can never hate a book about books, either! It does get really romantic at the end and cringey for me but the humor made this a 4 star listen!
135Dianekeenoy
105. Out of the Clear Blue Sky by Kristan Higgins - 4 stars
The very best of a summer read!!!! A funny novel about losing it all but getting back more than expected! Lillie Silva knows it will be hard when her only son leaves for college, she's not expecting her husband to dump her for a younger woman and get remarried immediately! Just so much fun!!! Highly recommended!
The very best of a summer read!!!! A funny novel about losing it all but getting back more than expected! Lillie Silva knows it will be hard when her only son leaves for college, she's not expecting her husband to dump her for a younger woman and get remarried immediately! Just so much fun!!! Highly recommended!
136Dianekeenoy
106. It All Comes Down to This by Therese Anne Fowler - 4 stars
Another great summer read! I actually got to finish this book outside on a beautiful summer evening with a glass of wine while my husband watched the pups for 10 minutes!!!
Another great summer read! I actually got to finish this book outside on a beautiful summer evening with a glass of wine while my husband watched the pups for 10 minutes!!!
137Dianekeenoy
107. The Change by K.A. Applegate - 4.5 stars
I bought this book yesterday at Barnes and Noble's buy one get one 1/2 off sale! When I picked it up this morning to just look at it, I sat down and read it straight through!! Such a fun read, lots going on, some magical realism and strong female characters!!! Another wonderful summer read for me and the most beautiful cover!!!
I bought this book yesterday at Barnes and Noble's buy one get one 1/2 off sale! When I picked it up this morning to just look at it, I sat down and read it straight through!! Such a fun read, lots going on, some magical realism and strong female characters!!! Another wonderful summer read for me and the most beautiful cover!!!
138Dianekeenoy
108. The Night Swim by Megan Goldin - 4.5 stars
Excellent book about a rape trial in a small town in NC which is highlighted in the new season of a popular true-crime podcast. As Rachel Krall heads into this town, she finds herself being drawn into another crime that happened 25 years ago.
Excellent book about a rape trial in a small town in NC which is highlighted in the new season of a popular true-crime podcast. As Rachel Krall heads into this town, she finds herself being drawn into another crime that happened 25 years ago.
139Dianekeenoy
109. The Pallbearers Club by Paul Trembley
Not a favorite of mine...his book Cabin at the End of the World was amazing and frightening! I highly recommend that book!
Not a favorite of mine...his book Cabin at the End of the World was amazing and frightening! I highly recommend that book!
140Dianekeenoy
110. Killers of the Flower Moon by David Grann - 4 stars
It's so hard to believe these awful killings happened to the Osage tribe and nothing was done about it for such a long time. There are no words...
It's so hard to believe these awful killings happened to the Osage tribe and nothing was done about it for such a long time. There are no words...
141Dianekeenoy
111. The 6:20 Man by David Baldacci - 4.5 stars
There’s a reason that David Baldacci is a best-selling author, he can really write! I haven’t read any of his books in a long time but once you open one of his books, you very easily fall into the story only coming up for air when one of your pups needs to go out!
Travis Devine takes the 6:20 train into work every morning to work as an entry level financial analyst in his thirties. However, in his past life he was a highly decorated Ranger in the army. Things happened, he decided to get out and get his MBA and climb the corporate ranks. He wants to make his unforgiving parents as proud of him as they are of his siblings.
Of course, things are not going to go smoothly for our hero! There’s a death at his company and men from his past come to threaten his present if he doesn’t work for them to investigate his company. There’s a lot going on here and as you can imagine as Devine works his two jobs; one plugging away at the bottom of the ladder, another uncovering new secrets at every turn – and realizing that he’s been unknowingly working from inside of the world’s biggest conspiracies! Pretty sure this is book one in a series from the ending! That’s okay with me, Travis Devine is a great character
There’s a reason that David Baldacci is a best-selling author, he can really write! I haven’t read any of his books in a long time but once you open one of his books, you very easily fall into the story only coming up for air when one of your pups needs to go out!
Travis Devine takes the 6:20 train into work every morning to work as an entry level financial analyst in his thirties. However, in his past life he was a highly decorated Ranger in the army. Things happened, he decided to get out and get his MBA and climb the corporate ranks. He wants to make his unforgiving parents as proud of him as they are of his siblings.
Of course, things are not going to go smoothly for our hero! There’s a death at his company and men from his past come to threaten his present if he doesn’t work for them to investigate his company. There’s a lot going on here and as you can imagine as Devine works his two jobs; one plugging away at the bottom of the ladder, another uncovering new secrets at every turn – and realizing that he’s been unknowingly working from inside of the world’s biggest conspiracies! Pretty sure this is book one in a series from the ending! That’s okay with me, Travis Devine is a great character
142Dianekeenoy
112. Ocean State by Steward O'Nan - 4 stars
I love Stewart O'Nan and always pre-order his books! I listened to this on audio for about the first two thirds since I was in the car all day driving my little Havanese to the vet for an emergency visit. It grabbed my interest right away and kept me and my pup absorbed by the story during our drive. By the time we got home after supper, I had to finish so grabbed my book and read the rest of the book! This is a love triangle between teenagers and you just want to tell them to calm down and not do anything too hasty. The parents certainly weren't paying any attention at all as this teen angst is going down. This is a short book but packs a huge emotional punch!
I love Stewart O'Nan and always pre-order his books! I listened to this on audio for about the first two thirds since I was in the car all day driving my little Havanese to the vet for an emergency visit. It grabbed my interest right away and kept me and my pup absorbed by the story during our drive. By the time we got home after supper, I had to finish so grabbed my book and read the rest of the book! This is a love triangle between teenagers and you just want to tell them to calm down and not do anything too hasty. The parents certainly weren't paying any attention at all as this teen angst is going down. This is a short book but packs a huge emotional punch!
143Dianekeenoy
113. Remarkably Bright Creatures by Shelby Van Pelt - 5 stars
This is this most beautiful book inside and out!!! The cover is gorgeous and in this instance you can definitely judge a book by its cover! The story is narrated by Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus who is discovered one evening out of his tank and caught in the break room by Tova. They become friends and help each other in amazing ways. This book moved me to tears. Don't miss this book and if you can, you definitely want this book on your shelf! Highly recommended!!!
This is this most beautiful book inside and out!!! The cover is gorgeous and in this instance you can definitely judge a book by its cover! The story is narrated by Marcellus, a giant Pacific octopus who is discovered one evening out of his tank and caught in the break room by Tova. They become friends and help each other in amazing ways. This book moved me to tears. Don't miss this book and if you can, you definitely want this book on your shelf! Highly recommended!!!
144Dianekeenoy
114. The Glass Ocean by Beatriz Williams - 3.5 stars
An interesting audiobook, it just took awhile to pull me in.
An interesting audiobook, it just took awhile to pull me in.
145Dianekeenoy
There, finally all caught up on my read books so far this year! There have been so many excellent books and I have so many more on my TBA pile and TBA shelves and stacks of books from two libraries! What a wonderful problem to have!
Everything is going fairly well here in Shohola, it's a beautiful area and we're still exploring. We have a pet sitter come in every Tuesday for 3 hours to stay with our 3 pups. Right now, that's the only time Kevin and I can go out together! Amelia, our little Schnauzer is struggling to get up when she falls and panics if we can't get to her quickly. She's always been such a stoic little dog and never sick until last November that we're more than happy to have one of us home with her. Fiona, our little 18 year old Havanese injured her back this week so after a quick trip to the vet for a shot and pain meds, we're trying to keep her calm so she can heal! So, it's kind of like a senior home for dogs around here right now! Luckily, Jeffrey, the Bichon is fine! I need to get down to NC to spend a few days with my 93 year old Dad so I really need to get Fiona back to normal so Kevin can deal with them while I'm gone!
Hope everyone is staying cool during these very hot days!
Everything is going fairly well here in Shohola, it's a beautiful area and we're still exploring. We have a pet sitter come in every Tuesday for 3 hours to stay with our 3 pups. Right now, that's the only time Kevin and I can go out together! Amelia, our little Schnauzer is struggling to get up when she falls and panics if we can't get to her quickly. She's always been such a stoic little dog and never sick until last November that we're more than happy to have one of us home with her. Fiona, our little 18 year old Havanese injured her back this week so after a quick trip to the vet for a shot and pain meds, we're trying to keep her calm so she can heal! So, it's kind of like a senior home for dogs around here right now! Luckily, Jeffrey, the Bichon is fine! I need to get down to NC to spend a few days with my 93 year old Dad so I really need to get Fiona back to normal so Kevin can deal with them while I'm gone!
Hope everyone is staying cool during these very hot days!
147Dianekeenoy
>146 drneutron: Thanks!!! It's been a great reading year so far!
148PaulCranswick
Thank you as always for books, thank you for this group and thanks for you. Have a lovely day, Diane.
149johnsimpson
Hi Diane my dear, Happy Thanksgiving Day.
150johnsimpson
Merry Christmas
151johnsimpson
Happy New Year
152johnsimpson
This message has been deleted by its author.
153Dianekeenoy
I finished up the year reading 176 books, almost all of them excellent!!!! I have started keeping track of my books on Goodreads since my book club members are there. While I will still keep track of my books here as well and read the threads for wonderful recommendations, I won't be doing a thread for 2023.
