The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd

Rating:  8.5 General Rating:  Kidd amalgamates narration and dialogue to perfection in this  touching tale of a motherless girl who runs away from an abusive father. Skip factor:  1% I skipped little. The writing was just too good. Who should read: All women, all ages. Summary:  This is the story of Lily Owens who must come to terms … Read more

Educated by Tara Westover

Rating:     9    This book challenged me. Yet, once I got past the Westover’s junkyard and herbal world, I was mesmerized by Tara’s journey. Skip factor: 8%    At around 30% I called a friend and asked if the story improved. I did not like the junkyard or herbal lore at all. However, I hung … Read more

Defending Jacob by Michael Landay

Rating:                       10 BEST BOOK CLUB RATING General Rating:        This novel is great from the beginning, meaty in the middle, and unable-to-put-down in the end. One of my all-time favorites, Defending Jacob is one of only two books I’ve read cover to cover twice. The surprise for me? … Read more

My Husband’s Wife by Jane Corry

Rating:           7.5 General Rating:  Great suspense but a little congested. Found this gem at a reading library at a NC Preserve! Who should read:  Mystery and Women’s fiction lovers. Skip factor:  2% toward the end. I’m not rating this as high but it did keep my attention. Summary: I began writing this summary and realized there are … Read more

A Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles

Rating:           9.5 General Rating: Reading this book is a little like going on a dinner date with a genius. You can’t insult him by leaving too soon, but he’s a tad confusing. Long-winded. Using proper utensils. Announcing the origins and imported flavors of every bite—in French. Then Latin. You’re out of your element, aren’t sure what … Read more