Best Holiday Fiction
Not only do they find they have a lot in common, but there’s even a spark of romance in the air. But the two are in for more twists and turns along the way as they rescue a lost puppy, run into petty thieves, and even get caught up in a case of mistaken identity. full of fun, laughter, and love.” — Romance Reviews Today “This Christmas romance from [Debbie] Macomber is both sweet and sincere.” — Library Journal “There’s just the right amount of holiday cheer. This road-trip romance is full of high jinks and the kooky characters Macomber does so well.” — RT Book Reviews “Macomber’s name is almost as closely linked to Christmas reading as that of Charles Dickens.” —The Romance Dish , on Mr. This road-trip romance is full of high jinks and the kooky characters Macomber does so well.” — RT Book Reviews “Macomber’s name is almost as closely linked to Christmas reading as that of Charles Dickens.” —The Romance Dish , on Mr. Miracle Debbie Macomber , the author of Silver Linings, Last One Home, Love Letters, Mr. In 2013, Hallmark Channel began production on the original series Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove, based on Macomber’s Cedar Cove books.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I always enjoy Debbie Macomber books and this Christmas story does not disappoint."
"Dash & Ashley were thrown together at a rental car agency after flights were cancelled."
"This is my first book to read by this famed author."
"I love anything Debbie Macomber write."
"I Would recommend this book to my friends for a good read."
"I am an avid Debbie Macomber fan, having read 90 percent her current books published as e books. Overall I feel like this is Sadly not close to the caliber of her usual books."
"Mrs. Macomber has set the standard for warm romantic Christmas stories, I almost wish I had reached for an old favorite like The Christmas Basket, Christmas Letters, Starry Night, or any of the Angels books. With so many truly good books from this author, it's easy to overlook the more "meh" offerings, but I really hope her next attempt is up to par with the older holiday stories."
"This was good but not as riveting as some of the author’s previous novels."
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER • Christmas is the season of the heart, and #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber is here to warm yours with a delightful holiday novel of first impressions and second chances. Merry Knight is pretty busy these days. Chapter One. “Mom, I need to work overtime, so I won’t be home to help with dinner.”. Robin Knight struggled with mobility issues due to complications with multiple sclerosis. Matterson Consulting, the firm where she worked as a temp, was involved in a huge project, its biggest one to date, for the Boeing Company. All the normal, fun things that were part of this time of year, but for those employed by Matterson, it didn’t matter. Patrick was a dear boy, but he tended to dirty every dish in the house when he cooked. Bogie was Patrick’s golden retriever, who had an appetite that rivaled that of an entire high school football squad. I’ll stop off at the store on my way home and pick some up.” While she was there she’d grab a few other essentials, too, like milk and bread. Her father was in pharmaceutical sales and traveled extensively around the Pacific Northwest and was often on the road. Merry had taken the twelve-month temp job with Matterson Consulting to save tuition money for college. She’d been hired by Matterson Consulting specifically for this Boeing project and had worked extensively on inputting the data. They considered her part of the team and often turned to her with questions, as she had replaced the department head. Most everyone else went to a local café around the corner, where the food was fast, cheap, and tasty. When do I have time to date?” Merry had a fairly good idea what had prompted the question. Her younger brother was involved with a special group that held dances and other events that allowed him to socialize with other teens who had Down syndrome. As a high school senior, he was active in drama and part of the football team. She hoped the state of her social life would change once she could afford to return to school. “Mom, have you seen all the forms and questionnaires that need to be filled out for those dating sites? Her best friend Dakota had met the love of her life online at Mix & Mingle. She started filling out the forms but quickly gave up, exasperated by all the busywork. I have plenty of time to get out there.” Merry didn’t need the reminder about her friend’s happy ending. After Dakota met Michael on the site, she had sung the website’s praises to Merry like a wolf howling at the moon. “Yes, Mom, I heard.” Merry reached for her sandwich and was about to take another bite when the vice president of the company, Jayson Bright, walked past her desk. Her boss’s gaze landed on the sandwich she had on her desk, and for a moment she toyed with the idea of offering him half, but as she doubted he’d find any humor in it, she restrained herself. “Sorry, no, I was distracted.” From Mr. Bright’s look, Merry had to wonder if there was something written in the employee handbook about eating at her desk. The space was often crowded and it was uncomfortable bumbling around, scooting between those at the tables and those waiting in line for a turn at the microwave. The rumor mill in the office said he was related to the Matterson family; the company president was his uncle. Merry’s thoughts drifted to Jayson Bright and she mused at how attractive he would be if he smiled. He was about six feet tall, several inches taller than her five-five, with dark brown hair and eyes. Wanting to be generous in spirit, Merry supposed he carried a heavy responsibility. By the time Merry arrived at home, hauling a ten-pound bag of Bogie’s favorite dog food, it was after eight o’clock. As soon as she walked in the door, Patrick rushed to help her with the heavy sack. “Merry’s home,” he shouted, taking the dog food out of her hands and carting it to the kitchen pantry. Her mom leaned heavily on her walker, now exhausted and fatigued, because she grew tired at the end of each day. “We got you an early birthday gift this afternoon and it’s the best one ever.” Patrick rubbed his hands together, unable to disguise his eagerness. Born on December 26, the day after Christmas, Merry had felt cheated as a child when it came to her birthday gifts. Those with Down syndrome could legally drive in Washington State, but the family couldn’t afford a second car. “You get to pick for yourself, but I’ll help if you want.” From the way his eyes lit up, Merry knew he’d be terribly disappointed if he didn’t get a say in this. Bogie pranced around in his eagerness for Patrick to fill the dish so he could eat. “Now, Mom, now?” Patrick asked, jumping up and down after he poured the dog food into the bowl. Merry hugged her brother and, wrapping her arms around his torso, she gave him a gentle squeeze. Patrick took hold of her hand while their mother opened the laptop and pulled out a chair to sit down. Debbie Macomber , the author of Any Dream Will Do, If Not for You, Sweet Tomorrows, A Girl’s Guide to Moving On, Last One Home, Silver Linings, Love Letters, Mr. Miracle, Blossom Street Brides, and Rose Harbor in Bloom, is a leading voice in women’s fiction.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Another great Debbie Macomber book."
"It was very hard to put down as you wanted to know what was going to happen next or see if his attitude would change."
"What a great Christmas read!"
"Macomber Christmas stories are always delightful, this one is no exception."
"Another great read by Miss Debbie ."
"Merry/Mary was blessed in so many ways."
"You have to read this wonderful story!"
"I 've loved all of Debbie Macombers books for years .This one was a joy at this time of as it show how people can come together even after a mistake."
But being stranded in a blizzard has a way of bringing people closer. Graham. Even billionaires have a Christmas wish list. Fiery red hair, seductive curves, and full of sass. But she left me with no explanation... Will I get her back and give my son the family he deserves? *** This is a full length novel with a happily ever after, no cliffhanger, no cheating, and plenty of steam. Here's what reviewers are saying about The Christmas Surprise: "I can't encourage you enough to dive headfirst into this heart-warming, feel-good seasonal adventure." - R.J. Sorretto, Reviewer "This fun-loving, battle of wits, hearts, AND turkeys Holiday romance is a one of a kind story line that captured my attention and held on throughout this hilarious, crazy train as Holly and Graham find out what they are missing in life. "Debra, Reviewer " There's steamy love scenes, laughter and a wonderfully delightful HEA.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Holly lost the Christmas magic a long time ago when she learned at an early age she couldn’t depend on her parents. In addition to the fact that Holly wants no emotional entanglements, Graham has decided the thing to do is convince his ex-wife to reconcile so his five year old son can grow up with both parents. With impromptu transportation on an uncovered hay wagon pulled by a tractor alongside an apologizing turkey (in a snow storm), the First and a Half Church, more yummy recipes, and a host of unconventional supporting characters who will keep you in stitches, Banks sets the scene in a quaint, unique, slightly absurd but thoroughly captivating rural town that propels the reader front and center in Graham and Holly’s story. With a ridiculous amount of laugh-out-loud moments, a homey, entertaining setting and so much heart and emotion in the main characters, I couldn’t help but love it!"
"Banks books and having him come out with a Christmas story is a cherry on top. So she just wants to get to her cruise and be on her way in peace and quiet for the holidays. Graham loves the holidays and wants to see his 5-year-old son for the holidays."
"It's a romantic tale, to be sure, with the beauty of two slightly dented souls finding what they need, but arent looking for, in each other and helped along by the magic and chaos of the season. I lost count of how many times I giggled out loud in sheer delight of the characters and their inspired antics. Basically, this was a beautiful, and fun, story about the power of love, trusting the heart, and occasionally allowing the magic of a snow covered Christmas to sweep you up and carry you away. Due to said rough patch her character in the beginning of the book was sort of jaded and lashed out a bit. Holly and Graham ended up on the same train that broke down in the middle of nowhere, whereupon their journey, both romantic and comedic, started in earnest. In fact, I just plain loved this book that is sure to become a holiday classic I reread every winter season; it made me feel that cheerful, happy, and joyous."
"The Christmas Surprise is a quirky and fun holiday romance."
Best Women's Action & Adventure Fiction
Darby Thorne is a college student stranded by a blizzard at a highway rest stop in the middle of nowhere. She’ll have to spend the night in the rest stop with four complete strangers. There is no cell phone reception, no telephone, no way out because of the snow, and she doesn’t know which one of the other travelers is the kidnapper. Full of shocking twists and turns, this beautifully written novel will have you on the edge of your seat. “ I found myself having to tell myself to stop read and just BLINK, and breathe, for crying out loud. Would have read it quicker if I could have hidden myself away from the rest of the world, but alas, there was no escape from reality! The suspense starts at the very first page and only becomes more compelling until the explosive ending.” Linda Strong. “Once starting this story I just could not put it down, call it engrossing, engaging, intriguing or whatever you’d like it truly turned into one of those reads that I couldn’t break away from and today I really need a nap.” Carrie Glover. OUR LAST NIGHT Dan Rupley has 24 hours to get his dead fiancée back.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Full of lots of twists and turns - keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish."
"Enjoyed the fast pace of the story."
"Slow start."
"I bought it last min before boarding a flight, I barely read the description- I was blown away."
"This was a well written book keeps you guessing and I really enjoyed it."
"Could not put it down."
"Kept me in suspense the whole book."
"This was one of the most gripping thriller I have ever read."
Best Christian Westerns
Culver Daniels spent years cultivating a peaceful, orderly existence with his blacksmith shop and livery business. He could quickly grow accustomed to staring into eyes that held such mesmerizing flecks of amber light among their glossy depths. A few more steps back and forth and Culver decided the old woman was not only a fair dancer, but also the most irritating person he’d encountered in a long while. “You, Mr. Daniels,” she said in a soft, alluring voice that melted Culver’s insides and turned his brain to mush. “You’re even more beautiful than I dreamed, Miss Mirga,” Culver said, shocked to discover his tongue joined the rebellion his heart and feet had already staged against his good sense. After spending her formative years on a farm in Eastern Oregon, hopeless romantic Shanna Hatfield turns her rural experiences into sweet historical and contemporary romances filled with sarcasm, humor, and hunky heroes.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Culver did not want a wife necessarily, but when he sees Kezia Mirga, he realizes that she is everything he never realized that he wanted and missed having in his life."
"Shanna Hatfield's whimsical style shines in this well written page turning historical romance with delightful characters (gypsy, blacksmith, baby & Cat), believable conflicts and satisfying resolution."
"Shania Hatfield continues the 12 Days of Christmas with the whirlwind romance gypsy/circus performer Kezia and Culver, the local blacksmith of Noelle."
"A woman with a wounded heart, a child, and the prospect of a new husband..... Kenzia, and Jem travel with a group of mail order brides to Noelle."
"Shanna never disappoints with her quirky sense of humor and wonderful stories."
"I enjoyed this book as much as the first."
"What a wonderful story between a blacksmith and a former circus performer."
"I always enjoy the humor that Shanna Hatfield writes into her stories and as always the hero and heroine were perfect for each other."
Best Sports Romance
They say love and hate are the same feelings experienced under different circumstances, and it’s true. The man who comes to me in my dreams also haunts me in my nightmares. Ten years ago, he made me run away from the small town where we lived. The woman who knows my darkest secret, and the daughter of the cheap Help we hired to take care of our estate. LJ Shen has done it again.Taken an absolutely HORRIBLE character and made him into a swoony motherfucker. Literally no words are being formed in my head to describe how much I love this book. It was amazing and thought provoking, staying with me long after the last word was read.- Rosa Sharon,iScream Books. One of the most anticipated books of the year - heck, ever - and I totally devoured it in one sitting. He puts all the other Bad Boys to shame.- Shabby Arora, BookBistro Blog. How else could the woman possibly crawl inside my mind and create a story that seriously felt custom written for me? LJ Shen has created an addictive story line with characters that will frustrate you to no end. Shen pulled off a fucktastic slow burning story of alpha dominance and pain! I was completely bowled over by this book, the story flowed really well and the writing was as close to flawless as it could be. Shen is a USA Today and Amazon #1 Best-selling author of contemporary and YA romance. She lives in California with her husband and son, and enjoys good wine, bad reality TV shows and catching sun rays with her lazy cat.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"While the beginning was a bit slow the story developed at a steady pace after the first chapter or so. The hero was a bit annoying in that he couldn't just tell the heroine how he felt from jump instead of playing these stupid games.. but I guess the book would've ended a lot sooner."
"Vicious is the leader of The Four Hot Holes, four stunning young men of privilege who are as far from gentlemen as you can get. There seems to be something new to discover in each chapter of this book, and I found myself constantly questioning Vicious’s thoughts and next moves. I admired her strength and resilience, even when faced with the most difficult and humiliating challenges. There are so many complicated layers to Vicious you’d need an entire excavating team and staff of psychologists to fully unearth and understand him. The Sinners of Saint series continues, however, by focusing on a different member of The Four Hot Holes."
"I feel this one will be no different, plus that allows those of you who haven't had the chance to read this "Amazing" book the opportunity to do so without spoiling much of it. Emilia finds herself in a situation she can't understand with Vicious from the moment she meets him. Vicious must learn to trust and accept that what he feels for Emilia is real in this beautiful story. When I finished I was so torn because I was happy with how it ended but also sad because I want so much more of their story to continue."
Best Women's Sagas
Born into wealth and privilege, Avery Stafford seems to have it all: a successful career as a federal prosecutor, a handsome fiancé, and a lavish wedding on the horizon. But when Avery returns home to help her father weather a health crisis, a chance encounter leaves her with uncomfortable questions and compels her to take a journey through her family’s long-hidden history, on a path that will ultimately lead either to devastation or to redemption. Based on one of America’s most notorious real-life scandals—in which Georgia Tann, director of a Memphis-based adoption organization, kidnapped and sold poor children to wealthy families all over the country—Lisa Wingate’s riveting, wrenching, and ultimately uplifting tale reminds us how, even though the paths we take can lead to many places, the heart never forgets where we belong. Wingate is a master-storyteller, and you’ll find yourself pulled along as she reveals the wake of terror and heartache that is Georgia Tann’s legacy.” — Parade “One of the year’s best books . “Lisa Wingate takes an almost unthinkable chapter in our nation’s history and weaves a tale of enduring power.” —Paula McLain, New York Times bestselling author of Circling the Sun. A poignant, engrossing tale about sibling love and the toll of secrets.” — People “ Before We Were Yours is sure to be one of the most compelling books you pick up this year. [Lisa] Wingate is a master-storyteller, and you’ll find yourself pulled along as she reveals the wake of terror and heartache that is Georgia Tann’s legacy.” — Parade. It is almost a cliché to say a book is ‘lovingly written’ but that phrase applies clearly to Lisa Wingate’s latest novel, Before We Were Yours . This story about children taken from their parents through kidnapping or subterfuge and then placed for adoption, for a price, clearly pours out of Wingate’s heart. “This story is heartfelt and genuine, especially as Wingate explores the idea of home and family from a youngster’s point of view.” — Historical Novels Review. “Lisa Wingate takes an almost unthinkable chapter in our nation’s history and weaves a tale of enduring power. But the real feat of this stirring novel is how deeply Wingate plunges us into the heart and mind of twelve-year-old river gypsy Rill Foss. Rill’s utterly singular voice will stay with you long after the last page is turned, as will Wingate’s courage to follow her anywhere. I’m still basking in the afterglow, in shock at the true-crime elements, in awe at the journey of these characters who seem to have immortal souls.” —Jamie Ford, New York Times bestselling author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It follows the story of the Foss children in the '30s and Avery Stafford in present day, and brings to light a horrifying and shameful real-life scandal. Avery Stafford finds a puzzling photograph that leads her into an ever more confusing story of secrets and lies inside her upright, respected family."
"This is the first book I've ever read by Lisa Wingate, but having read it I will search through her other titles."
"I couldn't put the book down after getting through the first chapter."
"This was a quick read."
"A book full of ups and downs."
"The women who opt to put their child up for adoption have to be among the most courageous women."
"What a great book!"
"Wonderfully told story."
Best Political Fiction
The count’s refinement and genteel nature are exactly what we’re longing for.” — Ann Patchett “How delightful that in an era as crude as ours this finely composed novel stretches out with old-World elegance.” —The Washington Post He can’t leave his hotel. Rostov, an indomitable man of erudition and wit, has never worked a day in his life, and must now live in an attic room while some of the most tumultuous decades in Russian history are unfolding outside the hotel’s doors. [ A Gentleman in Moscow ] is laced with sparkling threads (they will tie up) and tokens (they will matter): special keys, secret compartments, gold coins, vials of coveted liquid, old-fashioned pistols, duels and scars, hidden assignations (discreet and smoky), stolen passports, a ruby necklace, mysterious letters on elegant hotel stationery . Alexander Rostov is a character for the ages--like Kay Thompson’s Eloise and Wes Anderson’s M. Gustav, he is unflinchingly (and hilariously for readers) devoted to his station, even when forced to wait tables, play hide and seek with a young girl, or confront communism. In the end, Towles’s greatest narrative effect is not the moments of wonder and synchronicity but the generous transformation of these peripheral workers, over the course of decades, into confidants, equals and, finally, friends. With them around, a life sentence in these gilded halls might make Rostov the luckiest man in Russia.” — The New York Times Book Review “This is an old fashioned sort of romance, filled with delicious detail. In his second elegant period piece, Towles continues to explore the question of how a person can lead an authentic life in a time when mere survival is a feat in itself . Towles’s tale, as lavishly filigreed as a Fabergé egg, gleams with nostalgia for the golden age of Tolstoy and Turgenev.” — O, The Oprah Magazine “‘The Grand Budapest Hotel’ and ‘Eloise’ meets all the Bond villains.” —TheSkimm. an imaginative and unforgettable historical portrait.” — Booklist “House arrest has never been so charming as in Towles’s second novel, an engaging 30-year saga set almost entirely inside the Metropol, Moscow’s most luxurious hotel. “An irresistible and astonishingly assured debut about working class-women and world-weary WASPs in 1930s New York…in the crisp, noirish prose of the era, Towles portrays complex relationships in a city that is at once melting pot and elitist enclave – and a thoroughly modern heroine who fearlessly claims her place in it.” — O, the Oprah Magazine “With this snappy period piece, Towles resurrects the cinematic black-and-white Manhattan of the golden age…[his] characters are youthful Americans in tricky times, trying to create authentic lives.” — The New York Times Book Review “This very good first novel about striving and surviving in Depression-era Manhattan deserves attention…The great strength of Rules of Civility is in the sharp, sure-handed evocation of Manhattan in the late ‘30s.” — Wall Street Journal “Put on some Billie Holiday, pour a dry martini and immerse yourself in the eventful life of Katey Kontent…[Towles] clearly knows the privileged world he’s writing about, as well as the vivid, sometimes reckless characters who inhabit it.” — People “[A] wonderful debut novel…Towles [plays] with some of the great themes of love and class, luck and fated encounters that animated Wharton’s novels.” — The Chicago Tribune “Glittering…filled with snappy dialogue, sharp observations and an array of terrifically drawn characters…Towles writes with grace and verve about the mores and manners of a society on the cusp of radical change.” —NPR.org.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"The relationships he forms with staff and guests, his handling of twists of fate, his moral rectitude and his perseverance to go on in the face of his lifelong imprisonment for being a Former Person make for a compelling tale, told beautifully by Towles. I literally sat and stared into space for an hour after I finished A Gentleman In Moscow, contemplating it and wishing it hadn’t ended."
"I had such an emotionally fulfilled feeling at the end of this novel that when I finished the last page, I closed the book, sat back, sighed deeply, and thought, "well, what now? It seems convoluted to start a review with the ending of a book, but this novel is actually a rather long tale, spanning 30+ years, so before I get into the journey, allow me this one break with decorum. But A Gentleman in Moscow, if not completely upsetting Sara Gruen's work, at least pulls level with it, because it is such a satisfying end to this novel, and I'll say no more than that for fear of ruining the experience for anyone else. It feels like such a universal fantasy that, despite the fact that we are not (probably) an aristocrat, a connoisseur of multiple tastes, exceedingly cultured, and currently exiled within our own country, we somehow connect with Count Rostov immediately. Towles writes with such sophistication and beauty in every carefully chosen word that it manages to feel effortless. At times it's witty and funny in that perfectly refined way, and in the next moment it's incredibly astute and insightful. I could ramble on about the the delightful and stunning setting of this book as well as the cast of characters that weave in and out and in again, but it might actually be overkill. I'll revisit often and always with a perfectly paired glass of wine in my hand, as Count Rostov would approve."
"This second novel is as enjoyable and engaging as his first, “Rules of Civility.”. In 1922, the Emergency Committee of the People’s Commissariat For Internal Affairs sentences Count Alexander Ilyich Rostov to spend the rest of his life inside the Hotel Metropol for writing the poem “Where Is It Now?”, which brashly asked the question, “where is our purpose now?” In imposing the sentence, the prosecutor pronounced that the Count “has succumbed irrevocably to the corruptions of his class – and now poses a threat to the very ideals he once espoused. In trying to adjust to his new circumstances, the Count tells himself that “if a man does not master his circumstances then he is bound to be mastered by them” and that “imagining what might happen if one’s circumstances were different was the only sure route to madness.” And so the Count adjusts to the 30 or more years that he ultimately spends in the Hotel. The Count befriends a nine-year-old girl, Nina Kulikova, who is temporarily living in the hotel with her father and who introduces the Count to all of the secrets the Hotel has to offer. While living at the Metropol, the Count meets people from all over the world, begins a love affair with a famous actress, spends many years tutoring a former red Army Colonel about the west, works as the head waiter at the Boyarsky and makes friends and enemies with the various people who lead their lives either in or through the Metropol. Asking for the restaurant manager, the Count is taken to the Hotel’s wine cellar, housing more than 100,000 bottles."
Best War Fiction
WINNER OF THE PULITZER PRIZE From the highly acclaimed, multiple award-winning Anthony Doerr, the beautiful, stunningly ambitious instant New York Times bestseller about a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France as both try to survive the devastation of World War II. Ten years in the writing, a National Book Award finalist, All the Light We Cannot See is a magnificent, deeply moving novel from a writer “whose sentences never fail to thrill” ( Los Angeles Times ). Yes, there is fear and fighting and disappearance and death, but the author’s focus is on the interior lives of his two characters. Never mind that their paths don’t cross until very late in the novel, this is not a book you read for plot (although there is a wonderful, mysterious subplot about a stolen gem). It is through their individual and intertwined tales that Doerr masterfully and knowledgeably re-creates the deprived civilian conditions of war-torn France and the strictly controlled lives of the military occupiers.High-Demand Backstory: A multipronged marketing campaign will make the author’s many fans aware of his newest book, and extensive review coverage is bound to enlist many new fans.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It has been a while since I have found a book that I wanted to read slowly so that I could soak in every detail in hopes that the last page seems to never come. When reading the synopsis of this novel, I never imagined that I would feel so connected to a book where one of the main characters is blind and the other a brilliant young German orphan who was chosen to attend a brutal military academy under Hitler's power using his innate engineering skills. I was invited into the pages and could not only imagine the atmosphere, but all of my senses were collectively enticed from the very first page until the last. In most well-written books you get of a sense of what the characters look like and follow them throughout the book almost as if you are on a voyage, but with this novel, I could imagine what it was like to be in Marie-Laure's shoes."
"On the other hand, as the author describes it, “It’s also a metaphorical suggestion that there are countless invisible stories still buried within World War II.” Add in a newly blinded French girl who is forced to leave her familiar surroundings, and you’ll soon find yourself in literary heaven. There are lessons about the brain, sitting inside the darkness of our skull, interpreting light; there are lessons about coal having been plants living millions of years ago, absorbing light, now buried in darkness; lessons about light waves that we cannot see—all applicable as the story unfolds. The author also includes connections to the song Clair de Lune, the book 20,000 LEAGUES UNDER THE SEA, and a fictional story about a priceless diamond called the Sea of Flames, whose owner “so long as he keeps it, the keeper of the stone will live forever.”. I cannot proclaim loud enough how much this book means to me; I have been left awe-inspired."
"“All the Light We Cannot See” is a World War II story told from the experiences of two children; each gifted in their own way."
Best Medical Fiction
An orphan leaves Dark Ages London, taking a dangerous journey and posing as a Jew to study medicine in Persia, in “an adventurous and inspiring tale” ( Library Journal ). When nine-year-old Rob Cole felt the life force slipping from his mother's hand he could not foresee that this terrifying awareness of impending death was a gift that would lead him from the familiar life of 11th-century London to small villages throughout England and finally to the medical school at Ispahan. Though apprenticed to an itinerant barber surgeon, it is the dazzling surgery of a Jewish physician trained by the legendary Persian physician Avicenna that inspires him to accept his gift and to commit his life to healing by studying at Avicenna's school.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Very good."
"I would have given this book 5 stars, because rarely do you find a book in this generation so exquisitely written as "The Physician"."
"A young Jew escapes poverty England in the 11th century and travels to the Far East where he studies to become a physician and surgeon in a mixed culture of Islamic and other religions."
"I enjoyed learning about how difficult travel was for people in the 11th century and about the different types of people Cole encountered on his way to Persia."
"I love the study of the human body,medicine and stories filled with a variety of human relationships As a Biblical Christian and having close friends are Jewish,I found all these elements in this historical novel."
"I found myself thinking, while turning pages and not wanting to put the book down, this would make a great movie!"
"Most books begin with a boring introduction, and by the time you read it, you might feel like putting it back on the shelf."
"Set in the 11th century, the young orphan, Rob J. Cole, finds adventure, romance, and fulfilment in his journey from England, to Persia, and back again to Scotland."
Best Saga Fiction
Born into wealth and privilege, Avery Stafford seems to have it all: a successful career as a federal prosecutor, a handsome fiancé, and a lavish wedding on the horizon. But when Avery returns home to help her father weather a health crisis, a chance encounter leaves her with uncomfortable questions and compels her to take a journey through her family’s long-hidden history, on a path that will ultimately lead either to devastation or to redemption. Based on one of America’s most notorious real-life scandals—in which Georgia Tann, director of a Memphis-based adoption organization, kidnapped and sold poor children to wealthy families all over the country—Lisa Wingate’s riveting, wrenching, and ultimately uplifting tale reminds us how, even though the paths we take can lead to many places, the heart never forgets where we belong. Wingate is a master-storyteller, and you’ll find yourself pulled along as she reveals the wake of terror and heartache that is Georgia Tann’s legacy.” — Parade “One of the year’s best books . “Lisa Wingate takes an almost unthinkable chapter in our nation’s history and weaves a tale of enduring power.” —Paula McLain, New York Times bestselling author of Circling the Sun. A poignant, engrossing tale about sibling love and the toll of secrets.” — People “ Before We Were Yours is sure to be one of the most compelling books you pick up this year. [Lisa] Wingate is a master-storyteller, and you’ll find yourself pulled along as she reveals the wake of terror and heartache that is Georgia Tann’s legacy.” — Parade. It is almost a cliché to say a book is ‘lovingly written’ but that phrase applies clearly to Lisa Wingate’s latest novel, Before We Were Yours . This story about children taken from their parents through kidnapping or subterfuge and then placed for adoption, for a price, clearly pours out of Wingate’s heart. “This story is heartfelt and genuine, especially as Wingate explores the idea of home and family from a youngster’s point of view.” — Historical Novels Review. “Lisa Wingate takes an almost unthinkable chapter in our nation’s history and weaves a tale of enduring power. But the real feat of this stirring novel is how deeply Wingate plunges us into the heart and mind of twelve-year-old river gypsy Rill Foss. Rill’s utterly singular voice will stay with you long after the last page is turned, as will Wingate’s courage to follow her anywhere. I’m still basking in the afterglow, in shock at the true-crime elements, in awe at the journey of these characters who seem to have immortal souls.” —Jamie Ford, New York Times bestselling author of Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It follows the story of the Foss children in the '30s and Avery Stafford in present day, and brings to light a horrifying and shameful real-life scandal. Avery Stafford finds a puzzling photograph that leads her into an ever more confusing story of secrets and lies inside her upright, respected family."
"This is the first book I've ever read by Lisa Wingate, but having read it I will search through her other titles."
"The environments and characters come to life in this book based on the real-life scandal surrounding the Tennessee Children's Home Society from the 1930s until it was closed in 1950."
"Well written and very descriptive."
"This was a very interesting story."
"The story is well written."
"I found it somewhat difficult going to the present then back...the name changes were a challenge but I'm 81 yrs old and some things just don't come easily anymore."
"This was a very, very interesting book."
Best Urban Fiction
With her beautiful face, full hips and round backside, nothing stands in the way of her confidence. He often wonders if Pita is good enough to settle down with or should he forgive the woman who caused him heartache and pain. Tyshae Owens, is a beautiful and smart nail technician at Luxury Tea. The saying is true, “what glitters isn’t gold.” Will she stay or will she move on to someone who can offer her the love she deserves?
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Natavia did an exceptional job of developing the characters."
"Natavia, this book was awesome!"
"I absolutely love Natavia’s books."
"First I love this was a stand-alone and secondly the issues you touched on."
"This book was very good!!"
"I read this book in one day."
"This is another most read book..women a gross the globe could identify with either one of these character..the issues of today was depicted gracefully and Out was amazing."
"I loved seeing true love prevail and the truth that people stay in relationships for an image or fearful of the opinions of others."
Best Satire Fiction
Adapted for a magnificent George Roy Hill film three years later (perhaps the only film adaptation of a masterpiece which exceeds its source), Slaughterhouse-Five (1969) is the now famous parable of Billy Pilgrim, a World War II veteran and POW, who has in the later stage of his life become "unstuck in time" and who experiences at will (or unwillingly) all known events of his chronology out of order and sometimes simultaneously. The "unstuck" nature of Pilgrim's experience may constitute an early novelistic use of what we now call Post Traumatic Stress Disorder; then again, Pilgrim's aliens may be as "real" as Dresden is real to him. Struggling to find some purpose, order or meaning to his existence and humanity's, Pilgrim meets the beauteous and mysterious Montana Wildhack (certainly the author's best character name), has a child with her and drifts on some supernal plane, finally, in which Kilgore Trout, the Tralmafadorians, Montana Wildhack and the ruins of Dresden do not merge but rather disperse through all planes of existence. In a plot-scrambling display of virtuosity, we follow Pilgrim simultaneously through all phases of his life, concentrating on his (and Vonnegut's) shattering experience as an American prisoner of war who witnesses the firebombing of Dresden. Slaughterhouse-Five boasts the same imagination, humanity, and gleeful appreciation of the absurd found in Vonnegut's other works, but the book's basis in rock-hard, tragic fact gives it a unique poignancy--and humor. Hawke rises to the occasion of performing this sliced-and-diced narrative, which is part sci-fi and partially based on Vonnegut's experience as a American prisoner of war in Dresden, Germany during the firebombing of 1945 that killed thousands of civilians.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"Ultimately, humanity as we know it is transformed into fish-like creatures living near an island in the distant future."
"I read it many years ago."
"Another good book from Kurt Vonnegut."
"I have thought Vonnegut was an exceptional writer!"
"You really don't know what's coming."
"There are several interesting plot lines that appear totally unrelated at first but Vonnegut ties them all together. I will admit that when I saw that the protagonist could time travel and at times was on a different planet the urge to put the book down did raise its head."
"Fantastic Book and a must read."
"This book came highly recommended I was a little disappointed it was still a good read but not as great as I was lead to believe it would be the books physical condition was excellent so the book's value was better-than-expected."
Best Sports Fiction
People say Beartown is finished. In this story of a small forest town, Fredrik Backman has found the entire world. Beartown has so much going on within its enjoyably readable pages that putting it in a literary box is all but impossible—and indeed that is one of the many reasons readers will pass this book amongst one another with a confident “I think you’ll like this.” As the town’s finances decline, small, scrappy Beartown hunkers deeper into itself, proud only of its white-hot junior hockey team led by a coach whose hard-driving mantra is, simply, “Win.” Seizing the upcoming hockey championship could lure a new hockey academy their way and jumpstart the local economy. —Adrian Liang, The Amazon Book Review PRAISE FOR BEARTOWN “Backman is a masterful writer, his characters familiar yet distinct, flawed yet heroic. “[It's] Backman’s rich characters that steal the show, and his deft handling of tragedy and its effects on an insular town. While the story is dark at times, love, sacrifice, and the bonds of friendship and family shine through ultimately offering hope and even redemption.” (Publishers Weekly). "Another solid offering from best-selling Swedish author Backman, with many parallels for American readers and small towns everywhere." (Library Journal). "The sentimentally savvy Backman (A Man Called Ove, 2014) takes a sobering and solemn look at the ways alienation and acceptance, ethics and emotions nearly destroy a small town and young people." (The New York Times Book Review). "Backman is the Dickens of our age, and though you'll cry, your heart is safe in his hands."
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"The happenings and how the personalities bounce off each other in such human ways (hatefully and lovingly) makes this a fascinating and unforgettable book. This book is not at all like the Ove book except that it is written by a genius of human understanding."
"It begins with a cliffhanger: "Late one evening...a teenager picked up a shotgun, walked into the forest, put the gun to someone else's forehead and pulled the trigger. Fiction is a way to enter into an age-old discussion framed so beautifully by one of the characters: "This town doesn't always know the difference between right and wrong...but we know the difference between good and evil." What is the right thing to do when things go very wrong?"
"Don't be sidelined about it either being set in Sweden, written by a Swedish author, (sometimes some translations don't play out too well) or is about hockey. Even though hockey appears the premise of the story, it is just the background noise that keeps the book and its characters moving forward."
"There are many such moments in this book."
"I bought this book because I'd really enjoyed his other works."
"Not only is this book amazingly written but the story, the plot, the lessons, they grab hold of you before you finish reading the first chapter."
"A book that portrays the best and the worst a small community offers in heart wrenching detail."
"I kept imagining how this would play as a movie or a min series and how it could be done in a way where all the characters could be brought to life like Backman did in the book."
Best Biographical Fiction
Now, with the opportunity to spy for the Allies inside the German High Command, Pino endures the horrors of the war and the Nazi occupation by fighting in secret, his courage bolstered by his love for Anna and for the life he dreams they will one day share. “Sprawling, stirring, like the richest of stories, and played out on a canvas of heroism and tragedy, Beneath a Scarlet Sky is like one of those iconic World War II black and white photos: a face of hope and tears, the story of a small life that ended up mattering in a big way.” —Andrew Gross, New York Times bestselling author of The One Man. “Action, adventure, love, war, and an epic hero—all set against the backdrop of one of history's darkest moments—Mark Sullivan's Beneath a Scarlet Sky has everything one can ask for in an exceptional World War II novel.” —Tess Gerritsen, New York Times bestselling author of Playing with Fire. Mark has received numerous awards for his writing, including the WHSmith Fresh Talent Award, and his works have been named a New York Times Notable Book and a Los Angeles Times Best Book of the Year.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It is a gripping story of resilience, the indomitable spirit of a young man that knew no boundaries and courage that sustained him during dark hours. The action intensified throughout the remainder of the book, and one is allowed a rare glimpse into the mind of Il Duce - Benito Mussolini - plus the inner workings of the German High Command. Pino Lello witnesses atrocities he wishes he could forget but keeps soldiering on...wisely... Just a gripping and harrowing Kindle First selection which I feel is the best one I have read."
"Set in Italy during the last two years of the second World War, this story follows the life of a remarkable young man, Pino Lella, who finds himself assigned as the driver of one of the most powerful Nazi officials in Italy. He accompanies this General throughout northern Italy as the war deteriorates and comes to a violent and tragic end. A very worthwhile story that author Mark Sullivan was lucky enough to learn of, then putting several years of research into piecing together as many of the details as he could."
"He takes us deep inside the love story of his discovery, the unknown hero, Pino Lella, and he crafts an epic tale set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Milan and the Italian Alps during World War II that is as intimate and tragic as it is thought-provoking and triumphant."
"I cannot add more to the excellent reviews previously posted other than to say I read this book in one sitting not being able to put it down until 4:00 AM!"
"Being a son of privaledge with a close knit extended family, devoted equally to their Catholic Church, children's education and safety, their top shelf leather purse shop in the fashion district and their love of good food, wine and classical music."
Best Family Life Fiction
– Paula Hawkins. From the bestselling author of Everything I Never Told You , a riveting novel that traces the intertwined fates of the picture-perfect Richardson family and the enigmatic mother and daughter who upend their lives. In Shaker Heights, a placid, progressive suburb of Cleveland, everything is planned – from the layout of the winding roads, to the colors of the houses, to the successful lives its residents will go on to lead. Enter Mia Warren – an enigmatic artist and single mother – who arrives in this idyllic bubble with her teenaged daughter Pearl, and rents a house from the Richardsons. When old family friends of the Richardsons attempt to adopt a Chinese-American baby, a custody battle erupts that dramatically divides the town--and puts Mia and Elena on opposing sides. “Witnessing these two families as they commingle and clash is an utterly engrossing, often heartbreaking, deeply empathetic experience…It’s this vast and complex network of moral affiliations—and the nuanced omniscient voice that Ng employs to navigate it—that make this novel even more ambitious and accomplished than her debut…Our trusty narrator is as powerful and persuasive and delightfully clever as the narrator in a Victorian novel…It is a thrillingly democratic use of omniscience, and, for a novel about class, race, family and the dangers of the status quo, brilliantly apt…The magic of this novel lies in its power to implicate all of its characters—and likely many of its readers—in that innocent delusion [of a post-racial America]. She toggles between multiple points of view, creating a narrative both broad in scope and fine in detail, all while keeping the story moving at a thriller’s pace.” — LA Times “Riveting…unearthing the ways that race, class, motherhood and belonging intersect to shape each individual…Perhaps Ng's most impressive feat is inviting the reader's forgiveness for Mrs. Richardson –– a woman whose own mission for perfection, and strict adherence to rules ultimately become the catalyst for the maelstrom that ensues.” —Chicago Tribune. “Like Sue Monk Kidd or Madeleine Thien, Celeste Ng has a carpenter’s sure touch in constructing nested, interconnected plots…There are few novelists writing today who are as wise, compassionate and unsparing as Ng, about the choices you make, the ones you don’t, and the price you might pay for missed lives.” — Financial Times. “Like Everything I Never Told You , Ng’s excellent debut, the book plots its way into a smart, accessible conversation about race and class. “Ng writes with the wisdom of a hundred lives lived, churning out complex characters mostly sympathetic, sometimes loathsome, but all startlingly human.” — HarpersBazaar.com. “Fans of novelist Celeste Ng’s debut, Everything I Never Told You , and devotees of her resistance-ready Twitter feed can rejoice…The story drifts effortlessly between characters; each is full and memorable as they coax the novel to its fiery climax. “Couldn’t be more timely… Little Fires Everywhere might just be the signpost that we need, pointing a way forward with the gentle suggestion that sometimes doing the right thing means breaking some rules.” – Paste “Compelling… Little Fires Everywhere invests all of its emotional energies in the relationship between mothers and their children…in Ng’s precisely rendered perfect suburb.” – Vox. “Ng’s taut class drama is calibrated for fireworks.” – New York Magazine , Books to Read This Fall “Written with deep empathy and vivid characters who feel true to life, Little Fires Everywhere is a captivating, insightful examination of motherhood, identity, family, privilege, perfectionism, obsession, and the secrets about ourselves we try to hide.” – Buzzfeed. “There are few modern writers as brilliant at capturing the complexities of a family as Celeste Ng…The book is smart, nuanced, and exhilarating—but more than anything, Little Fires Everywhere is a gorgeous exploration of motherhood in its many forms, and the many different paths that women travel to get there.” — Shondaland.com. “Ng’s uncanny ability to embody multiple viewpoints makes for a powerful, revelatory novel.” – BBC.com, Ten Books to Read in September. “Ng has one-upped herself with her tremendous follow-up novel… a finely wrought meditation on the nature of motherhood, the dangers of privilege and a cautionary tale about how even the tiniest of secrets can rip families apart… Ng is a master at pushing us to look at our personal and societal flaws in the face and see them with new eyes… If “Little Fires Everywhere” doesn’t give you pause and help you think differently about humanity and this country’s current state of affairs, start over from the beginning and read the book again.” --San Francisco Chronicle. “Ng’s talent for depth of story and character development shines and will stay with you long after you’ve finished the book.” — Richmond Times-Dispatch “Immersive and thought-provoking…Hang on and prepare to be mesmerized as you meet two families in idyllic Shaker Heights, Ohio.” — The Missourian. “A multilayered, tightly focused and expertly plotted narrative…A deeply impressive novel with the power to provoke and entrance.” — Minneapolis Star Tribune “One of the best novels of the fall is an emotional tale about motherhood, class and so much more… Everything I Never Told You , was good, but this is better.” —AARP.org “Mesmerizing…The result is a deftly woven plot that examines a multitude of issues, including class, wealth, artistic vision, abortion, race, prejudice and cultural privilege.” —BookPage “Ng’s best-selling first novel Everything I Never Told You proved her deft hand at crafting family dramas with the deep-rooted tension of a thriller, a skill she puts to pitch-perfect effect in her latest entry…that is equal parts simmering and soulful.” —HarpersBazaar.com “A quiet but powerful look at family, secrets, and running from the past. “Ng’s stunning second novel is a multilayered examination of how identities are forged and maintained, how families are formed and friendships tested, and how the notion of motherhood is far more fluid than bloodlines would suggest…[A] tour de force.”— Booklist (starred review). “This incandescent portrait of suburbia and family, creativity, and consumerism burns bright…. As in Everything I Never Told You , Ng conjures a sense of place and displacement and shows a remarkable ability to see—and reveal—a story from different perspectives. -- Peter Ho Davies, author of The Fortunes "As if it wasn't totally obvious from her stunning first novel, Little Fires Everywhere showcases what makes Celeste Ng such a masterful writer. Celeste Ng is a powerful and poignant writer whose attention to detail is pitch-perfect. An Amazon Best Book of September 2017: With her first two novels, Celeste Ng has established herself as a writer of rare sensitivity and talent. Ng is a master of family and societal dynamics, shifting perspectives, and the secrets that we try to protect—and readers who loved her debut will recognize the author in this second novel, even as she continues to stretch herself as a writer.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"The first 100 pages (one-third of the total book) just cover a lot of character study and plot set-ups. The plot focus about a Chinese baby abandoned at a fire station and the subsequent court battle when the single mother surfaces six months later to try to reclaim her daughter from the family in the process of adopting her, was really, really well done."
"Moreover, as the story progresses, it mines the undercurrents and conflicts unfolding in the neighborhood, and the inexorable events that ensue when an itinerant mother-daughter move in and casually defy every rule in the well-ordered, tony Shaker Heights, a suburb of Cleveland. Elena Richardson was an ambitious journalist, but subverted her talent and success (now writing trivial articles for the community paper) after marriage to her attorney husband. She inherited property from her parents in the modest part of town and now rents it out to less fortunate individuals with, what she believes, is strong character and willing submission to Shaker Heights principles. Mia repurposes objects into unique formats and themes, photographs them, and uses techniques that reflect her perceptions of the world around her, which invites the reader into startling and intimate motifs. She furnishes a sly portrait of suburbia, where the cracks and fissures that aren’t present in the manicured houses and streets are nevertheless rupturing the very misguided families that the rules aim to defend."
"Celeste's ability to seamlessly make each character a person is what everyone should strive to do."
"However, for the life of me I couldn't bare the characters, most of them were obnoxious, one diamensional or just plain uninteresting that I ended up rating this book less than what I had originally planned. She finds it hard and difficult to form any relationships with anyone, her familial background is utterly depressing, she doesn't talk to her parents, her only friend/mentor who understood her died tragically years past, she doesn't linger in one place long enough because she's too scared of forming attachment and as a result her daughter Pearl doesn't have any life! Now, I don't have any qualms about people that move around, maybe Mia could even be praised for being adventurous and a free spirit, but there's literally nothing happy about her or her character, she's depressing! Lexi was superficial and annoying, Moody was just ugh brooding and vindictive; he spent a lot of time holding grudges against his siblings because they were popular and cool, and then he spent the second 1/2 of the book, hating on Pearl because she picked his brother instead of him, even though he never once asked her out or confessed his feelings to her. Izzy was probably the worst of them all, I felt like burning this book every time she was mentioned, her obsession with Mia was f*cking annoying, and we never see her outside of it. I never understood her outrage at her own family members, it's not like they abused her or did anything to her, yeah she had issues with her mom but which teen hasn't had arguments with their parents? It will be weird for them to have anything in common, with a struggling single mom and her daughter who had just moved into their town, and are renting one of their properties. The only person whom I could see taking any real interest in Pearl at all as a character is Moody, because they are both nerds and he's less popular and isn't like his elder siblings. Instead, no everyone in the Richardson household just LOVES Pearl from the get go... And accept her willingly and spends soo much time with her, tells her their deepest secrets and yada yada, and then falls in love with Mia too cause she's so real and caring, unlike their cold, heartless and perfectionist mother."
Best Metaphysical Fiction
Jillian Guthrie, a troubled young journalist, stumbles onto a tantalizing mystery: the same man, unaged, stands alongside Ulysses S. Grant, Theodore Roosevelt, and Gandhi in three different photographs spanning eighty-five years of history. Creator of the landmark original miniseries V , he also produced The Six Million Dollar Man and created iconic Emmy-winning shows such as The Bionic Woman , The Incredible Hulk , and Alien Nation . He has presented his unique graduate-level seminar, The Filmmaking Experience , at UCLA, USC, NYU, Loyola, New York Film Academy, the National Film and Television School (UK), Moscow State University (Russia), and many others.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It was intriguing, the writing grabbed me and pulled me through the first 150 pages."
"The author did a masterful job of weaving together the stories of the major characters with those of the minor ones. The main character was condemned to an eternity of wandering the earth, but the author did not reveal the reason until maybe halfway through the book. The true reason this man was being pursued through the centuries and across continents was also revealed in the latter chapters. I enjoyed the tales told by the main character of interactions with famous people throughout history. One last thought -- Although many people are telling their stories throughout this book, I had no trouble keeping them straight."
"Also, I'd like to say up front here that, "the start of this book was boring/confusing/you-have-to-read-past-100-pages", is a common theme, even among five star reviews. After he woke up, he almost immediately gave a description of himself by looking in a mirror--something I absolutely hate since I simply CANNOT connect with a character that way--and after that, the book launched into a literary ocean of frustration, confusion, and boredom. Seriously, I really do hate critical reviews, but at some point around page 60 all I wanted to do was start bashing my head against the wall. Honestly, how many times do you have to observe someone handing out charity money to understand that yes, obviously, he’s a good guy? I had no idea who was actually relevant to the story later on, and who was just a convenient prop for demonstrating bits of information or more of Will’s “character”. Off the top of my head I’d say like Angels and Demons, but that book had me hooked from the first chapter. This one only fed me vague hints about some mysterious darkness, in a manner that was prominent enough it was obvious I should care about said hints, but so vague and with so little information there is no way I could possibly know enough to feel genuinely disturbed as, yes, I so obviously should have. It was the fact that I was 83 pages in, and I still hadn’t been given a single legitimate reason why I should WANT to keep reading. I’m absolutely positive a lot of people will love this book, and that it will get its fair share of glowing reviews."
Best Movie Tie-In Fiction
NOW THE ACCLAIMED HBO SERIES GAME OF THRONES From a master of contemporary fantasy comes the first novel of a landmark series unlike any you’ve ever read before. At the center of the conflict lie the Starks of Winterfell, a family as harsh and unyielding as the frozen land they were born to. Readers of epic fantasy series are: (1) patient--they are left in suspense between each volume, (2) persistent--they reread or at least review the previous book(s) when a new installment comes out, (3) strong--these 700-page doorstoppers are heavy , and (4) mentally agile--they follow a host of characters through a myriad of subplots. Martin rewards readers with a vividly real world, well-drawn characters, complex but coherent plotting, and beautifully constructed prose, which Locus called "well above the norms of the genre." The story of these two families and their struggle to control the Iron Throne dominates the foreground; in the background is a huge, ancient wall marking the northern border, beyond which barbarians, ice vampires, and direwolves menace the south as years-long winter advances. Although the romance of chivalry is central to the culture of the Seven Kingdoms, and tournaments, derring-do and handsome knights abound, these trappings merely give cover to dangerous men and women who will stop at nothing to achieve their goals.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"This review is primarily to give a feedback on the sizes of leather bound and paperback printed books."
"Going into these books (I read them after the show began but before I'd seen the show...), I enjoyed my share of sci-fi/fantasy along the lines of Harry Potter, Buffy the Vampire Slayer... fairly light-hearted stuff (in comparison, at least) that always felt grounded in the same world I live in. So when I first saw articles and clips from the HBO Game of Thrones series, I thought it looked like the one type of fantasy series that I would never enjoy. I held out for a looong time, until 3 different friends of mine with similar tastes in books/shows/films promised me that, while they too disliked this sub-genre of fantasty, this series was different, and I HAD to read the books or start the show."
"Extremely pleased with this leather edition."
"I was under the impression it would be the "size of a pocket bible" and the pages were so thin u could see through them like bible paper. All of my pages are here (from what I can tell) and although I doubt the quality of the "leather" it still feel great in hand and is just stunning to look at. I've included pictures to show its beauty and also compare the size to an actual pocket bible and its paper."
"4 stars for story, 2 stars for style =3 stars."
"The video production has been so true to the book, and I appreciate the use of the video series impact over a series of movies."
"I can't tell if this is the case for the rest of the books, but I'm certainly dissatisfied with the product."
Best Coming of Age Fiction
King Severn Argentine’s fearsome reputation precedes him: usurper of the throne, killer of rightful heirs, ruthless punisher of traitors. Richard III is near-obligatory context for reading about King Severn Argentine; readers less fond of the Bard can refer to Kylo Ren instead. This is the first title in Wheeler’s projected Kingfountain series, about Owen Kiskaddon, initially the eight-year-old son of a traitorous duke being held hostage at the royal court of Ceredigion.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I'm a fan of Jeff Wheeler and have enjoyed his 3 trilogies in the Muirwood and Mirrowen worlds, and came into this book expecting The Queen's Poisoner to be much of the same, but it was surprisingly different and unique. Although Wheeler's writing style is clear throughout, unlike his other books, this story follows a child, 8-year old Owen, as the main character. As Owen begins to feel the magic of the Fountain, we get a lot of foreshadow, hints, and small demonstrations of what the magic entails, but the magic is not what drives the plot in The Queen's Poisoner-- it's the characters. Lastly, as with all of Wheeler's books, I enjoyed the clean aspect to his writing."
"I purchased this book as my Amazon Kindle First book for March; if there is a Fantasy book listed at all, chances are that's the book I'm going to go for. I felt torn between liking and hating some, which felt like a natural response to the characters Wheeler was developing (I did worry about this from the very beginning of the book, as Wheeler started us out with a list of characters that felt like it was intended to tell us who we were supposed to like and who we weren't; thankfully, the characters were much more developed as the story moved on). The supporting characters are equally well developed and each come with their own surprising traits; Wheeler did a fantastic job of presenting one side of the characters to you early on in the book, but letting you look deeper into who they were and what they were doing where other eyes couldn't see them as you moved further into the book. By the time I reached the end of the book, I knew that this was going to be a series that I would be eagerly waiting for the next book to come out for. While the story wrapped up this part of Owen's life well (you are told in a blurb after the end that the next book will occur 7 years from the end of book one, so it makes sense for the first book to not end in a cliffhanger), there are enough unanswered questions and possibilities yet to be answered or seen."
"A delightful and entertaining fantasy about the dangers of palace intrique and plots seeking to consume " the good, the bad and the ugly"."
Best Fiction Anthologies
Now, with the opportunity to spy for the Allies inside the German High Command, Pino endures the horrors of the war and the Nazi occupation by fighting in secret, his courage bolstered by his love for Anna and for the life he dreams they will one day share.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"It is a gripping story of resilience, the indomitable spirit of a young man that knew no boundaries and courage that sustained him during dark hours. The action intensified throughout the remainder of the book, and one is allowed a rare glimpse into the mind of Il Duce - Benito Mussolini - plus the inner workings of the German High Command. Pino Lello witnesses atrocities he wishes he could forget but keeps soldiering on...wisely... Just a gripping and harrowing Kindle First selection which I feel is the best one I have read."
"Set in Italy during the last two years of the second World War, this story follows the life of a remarkable young man, Pino Lella, who finds himself assigned as the driver of one of the most powerful Nazi officials in Italy. He accompanies this General throughout northern Italy as the war deteriorates and comes to a violent and tragic end. A very worthwhile story that author Mark Sullivan was lucky enough to learn of, then putting several years of research into piecing together as many of the details as he could."
"He takes us deep inside the love story of his discovery, the unknown hero, Pino Lella, and he crafts an epic tale set against the backdrop of Nazi-occupied Milan and the Italian Alps during World War II that is as intimate and tragic as it is thought-provoking and triumphant."
"I cannot add more to the excellent reviews previously posted other than to say I read this book in one sitting not being able to put it down until 4:00 AM!"
Best Westerns
I can't help but feel like Little Red Riding Hood. Dream The women in this small town can't stop gossiping. But the skeletons in my closet won't stay locked away for long. She woke up the beast I had locked away. 60,000+ words in this full length standalone nanny romance. Bonus content included after the main story, including a new Bad Boy MC Romance. I loved it!" "Big Daddy will capture most readers' hearts!" "This is one heart touching story.
Reviews
Find Best Price at Amazon"I relied completely on reviews and although I did enjoy parts, I also felt some parts just didn’t live up to the potential of the book."
"Let start off with the fact that their names are dream and chance.... Any other day I would be rolling my eyes at the cliche of it, but I actually thought that this was a good choice for the two main characters."
"I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. OMG Rye has done it again, How she comes up with these wonderful reads. I will never know, they are always fresh and exciting with HOT as SIN sex. thrown in as well. Chance ex-military was discharge from the service only to come home to find out that his wife had cheated on him as was pregnant with another mans baby."
"Chance and Dream's story was so awesome and sweet, but also sad and filled with tragedy. Triumph over tragedy, with some very steamy romance inbetween, made this story difficult to put down..therefore I did not, ha!"
"Find out by reading Big Daddy, A Mountain Man's Baby Romance. I read an ARC copy of this book and found it difficult to put down."
"Star getting her wish, Dream being free, and Chance having what he always wanted. Hiding out in a small town she hopes she will be free."
"I loved seeing Dream and Chance interact. I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book."