The Ragged Edge of Night by Olivia Hawker

The Ragged Edge Of The Night My Rating: 4.8

Germany, 1942. Franciscan friar Anton Starzmann loses his place in the world when the Nazis seize his school. He moves to a small German village to marry Elisabeth Herter, a widow seeking a marriage in name only to a man who can help raise her three children. Anton is searching for something as well... atonement for his failure to protect his young students from the Nazis. But neither Anton nor Elisabeth expects their lives to be upended once again by the devastating reach of war.

Wow! I absolutely loved the characters in this story. Anton was such a good man, and I loved the influence he had on Elisabeth and her three children. You wouldn't necessarily expect a story set during World War II to be so warm, loving, and uplifting, but this one truly was.

My advice is not to read too much about this book before diving in. Just let the story unfold. I will definitely be reading more by this author!

My one disappointment was that, in the Historical Notes and Author's Remarks, the author brought her personal politics into the discussion. I really wish she had left that out. But set that aside and enjoy this wonderful story, including the fascinating way it came to be.

The MidWife's Revolt by Jodi Daynard

The Midwife's Revolt My Rating: 2.0

On a dark night in 1775, Lizzie Boylston is awakened by the sound of cannons. From a hill south of Boston, she watches fires burning in Charlestown during a battle that she soon discovers has claimed her husband’s life.

Alone in a new town, Lizzie grieves privately but takes comfort in her deepening friendship with Abigail Adams. As word spreads of Lizzie’s extraordinary midwifery and healing skills, she begins to channel her grief into caring for those who need her. But when two traveling patriots are poisoned, Lizzie finds herself caught up in far more complicated matters. She suspects a political plot intended to harm Abigail and her family, and her determination to uncover the truth draws her into a conspiracy that could threaten her livelihood, her chance at finding love again, and even the future of the new nation.

I really enjoyed the first two-thirds of this book. I loved the focus on what it was actually like to live during this time - the food shortages, the women trying to keep their families and communities going while the war was unfolding so close to home, and the divisions within the town over which side everyone was on. Most of all, I enjoyed the friendships and the details of Lizzie’s life as a midwife. Those were the parts that made the story feel real and completely drew me into the period.

And then the book changed completely.

Suddenly, the focus shifted to new characters we barely knew - and, frankly, I didn’t care about. The story became about spies, poisonings, conspiracies, and people going by so many different names that I eventually lost track of who was who. By the time the gasp! big whodunit reveal finally arrived, I didn’t care who had done it. I just wanted the book to be over. I must note that many felt that this last portion was the point of the book and wish the author had gotten to it sooner....proving the adage you can never please everyone.

It was especially disappointing because the book had such a strong start. If the author had simply stayed with the original story - the women, the friendships, the midwifery, and the fascinating everyday realities of living through the Revolutionary War - instead of feeling the need to turn it into a big dramatic mystery, this could have been a really good book.

My Life In Lyrics by Dolly Parton

 My Life In Lyrics My Rating 2.0

Showcasing nearly 100 of her most popular songs—including “Jolene,” “I Will Always Love You,” “9 to 5,” and “Coat of Many Colors”—this audiobook shares the stories behind Dolly Parton’s music and answers questions like: How close did Dolly come to singing “I Will Always Love You” as a duet with Elvis? How did she become an actress? And exactly who was Jolene?

I love Dolly - doesn’t everyone? I thought it would be fun for us to listen to her life story in the car, but somehow I missed the fact that this is told through her songs. It’s really much more about the songs and the stories behind them than it is about Dolly’s life.

There’s also a LOT of singing, and it’s very twangy - which Mark definitely didn’t care for. 😂

Unfortunately, this just wasn’t what I was hoping for, and I can’t really recommend it. But we still love Dolly!

The Woman On The Ledge by Ruth Mancini

The Woman On The Ledge My Rating: 2.8

A woman falls to her death from a London bank’s twenty-fifth-floor roof terrace.

You're arrested for her murder.

You tell the police that you had only met the victim the previous night at your office party. She was threatening to jump down from the roof, but you had talked her down.

You've got nothing to do with this tragedy. You're clearly being framed.

So why do the police keep picking holes in your story? Even your lawyer doesn't seem to believe you.

It soon becomes obvious that you're keeping secrets.

But who are you trying to protect? And why?

This one just didn't work for me. There were too many twists, and the story required me to suspend reality a little too much. I also didn't care about any of the characters (which says a LOT when you know what happens to some of the characters lol!) I've noticed that my reading tastes have changed since I retired, and I don't seem to enjoy those fun, popcorn-type thrillers the way I once did.

That said, if you love twisty, fast-paced books that keep throwing surprises at you, this may be one to check out. One thing I can definitely say: it's not predictable!

Dissolution by C.J. Sansom

Dissolution My Rating: 4.4

It is 1537, a time of enormous upheaval in England. Henry VIII has proclaimed himself Supreme Head of the Church of England, and Thomas Cromwell has sent commissioners throughout the country to investigate the monasteries, setting the stage for their dissolution.

At the monastery of Scarnsea on the Sussex coast, however, something has gone terribly wrong. Cromwell’s commissioner, Robin Singleton, has been brutally murdered—his head severed from his body—and the killing is accompanied by a series of disturbing acts of sacrilege.

Enter Matthew Shardlake, a lawyer and longtime supporter of Reform, who is sent by Cromwell to investigate the murder. What begins as a straightforward assignment soon becomes something far more complicated, forcing Shardlake to question not only what he is being told, but some of his own deeply held beliefs.

I thought this was such a unique premise. The story is set against the very real dissolution of the monasteries under Henry VIII and Thomas Cromwell, but Sansom weaves a fictional murder mystery into that fascinating period of Tudor history. Matthew Shardlake’s investigation gives us a way into this world that feels both intimate and suspenseful, while the historical events unfolding around him give the story real weight. A great way to get a history lesson while enjoying a good murder mystery. 

Mad Mabel by Sally Hepworth

Mad Mabel My Rating: 4.6

Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick is eighty-one years old and has lived on idyllic Kenny Lane for sixty years—longer than anyone else. She’s a curmudgeon who makes it her business to know everyone else’s business, but few would ever suspect just how much Elsie has worked to keep her own past hidden.

Because when it comes to murder, no one suspects little girls or old ladies.

And Elsie Mabel Fitzpatrick has been both.

Throughout Elsie’s life, people around her have had a strange habit of coming to a foul end. Now, when a talkative, curious, and very nosy little girl moves into the neighborhood and becomes determined to befriend Elsie, the carefully constructed life Elsie has built begins to unravel.

Who was “Mad Mabel” fifty years ago? Who is Elsie Fitzpatrick today? And if the past has a way of repeating itself, who has the most to lose?

Normally, I hate when a book drags out the “what really happened?” mystery until the very end. It can start to feel like the author is deliberately withholding information just to keep you reading.

But Mad Mabel somehow made it work for me.

I think the difference was that I was genuinely immersed in Elsie’s story. I wasn’t simply reading to get to the big reveal—I wanted to keep spending time in this strange little world and find out more about Elsie herself.

She’s certainly not your typical lovable elderly protagonist, which made her all the more interesting. The story kept giving me just enough along the way that I never felt impatient with it, and by the time everything began coming together, I was completely invested.

This was clever, dark, entertaining, and just unusual enough to stand out from the typical mystery/thriller.

Signal Fires by Dani Shapiro

Signal Fires My Rating: 4.5

An ancient oak stands beneath the stars on Division Street. Beneath it sit Ben Wilf, a retired doctor, and ten-year-old Waldo Shenkman, a brilliant and lonely boy pointing out his favorite constellations. Waldo doesn’t realize that he and Ben have met before—or that their lives will cross again and again in ways neither could have imagined.

Division Street is a place filled with secrets. An impulsive lie following a tragic childhood event becomes a secret that will haunt the Wilf family for decades. Years later, the Shenkmans move into the neighborhood carrying secrets of their own.

Spanning fifty years, Signal Fires follows these two families as their lives intersect across generations. It’s a story about family, memory, guilt, love, and the way a single moment can continue to shape our lives long after it has passed.

There was one brief scene in this book that I found extremely disturbing and uncomfortable, and I really wish it had been left out. Thankfully, it was short, but it did affect my overall experience with the book.

Other than that, I really enjoyed Signal Fires.

What stood out most to me were the characters. They felt wonderfully real, particularly the male characters, who seemed to come completely alive on the page. There is so much love in this story, but it isn't sentimental or overly sweet. It's complicated, imperfect, and very human.

I especially loved the way the novel explores how something that happens to us in childhood can follow us for decades, quietly influencing who we become and the choices we make. She also does a wonderful job of blending the timelines where everything feels similar even as you realize it is different. 

This is a thoughtful, moving story about the connections between people and the lasting echoes of the past. Despite that one scene, the characters and emotional depth made this a memorable read for me..

Plum Island by Nelson DeMille

Plum Island My Rating: 4.4

Wounded in the line of duty, NYPD homicide detective John Corey is recuperating in the quiet Long Island town of Southold when a young couple he knows is found murdered on their patio, each shot in the head. The local police chief asks Corey to lend his big-city expertise to the investigation, and what begins as a seemingly straightforward murder case soon leads him into the history, legends, and secrets of Long Island.

Along the way, Corey meets Detective Beth Penrose and Mayflower descendant Emma Whitestone, two women who become entangled in both the investigation and his life.

We listened to Plum Island in the car during our commute between homes, and it definitely kept us entertained. That said, it felt fairly formulaic, and I think we listened to it a little too soon after another Nelson DeMille novel. There were a lot of similarities, and at times it felt like we were listening to variations on the same characters and situations.

Still, DeMille knows how to keep a story moving, and John Corey is entertaining enough that we enjoyed the ride. Despite the sense of déjà vu, this was a solid listen, and we’ll definitely be reading more Nelson DeMille in the future.

Speed of Dark by Elizabeth Moon

Speed of Dark My Rating: 4.0

In the near future, disease has largely become a thing of the past. Most genetic defects are corrected at birth, with the remaining ones treated during infancy.

Lou Arrendale, a high-functioning autistic adult, is part of a lost generation—born just a little too early to benefit from these medical advances. He lives a quiet, independent life until he is offered the chance to undergo a brand-new experimental treatment that could essentially “cure” his autism.

With the treatment, Lou could think and act and be more like everyone else. But if he were suddenly free of autism, would he still be himself? Would he still love classical music and the complicated patterns and resolutions he finds in it? Would he still see the colors and patterns in the world that others don't? And would he still feel the same way about Marjory, a woman who may never return his feelings?

Lou has to decide whether changing the way his mind works would also change the very essence of who he is.

This was such a unique book. You really feel as though you're inside Lou's mind and begin to understand the way he sees the world - the patterns he notices, the strange phrases people use, and how frustrating it can be when people don't simply say what they mean.

I loved that aspect of the book, as well as the larger question at the heart of the story: If you change something fundamental about the way a person experiences the world, do you also change who that person is? There was something very thought-provoking about appreciating these characters exactly as they were while also understanding why the possibility of treatment might be tempting.

That said, there were fairly large sections that dragged for me. At times, the book spent far too long analyzing or explaining something, and I found myself skimming.

Even with those slower sections, I gave Speed of Dark 4 stars. It's unusual, thought-provoking, and unlike anything else I've read. If the premise intrigues you, I definitely think it's worth reading.

Dissection of a Murder by Jo Murray

Dissection of a Murder  My Rating: 3.5

When Leila Reynolds is handed her first murder case, she’s shocked by the victim: a well-known and highly respected judge whose death has sent shockwaves through the legal community. She’s also incredulous—she’s nowhere near experienced enough to handle such a high-profile case. But the defendant is insistent: he wants Leila, and only Leila, to represent him.

Except he’s refusing to talk.

And if that wasn’t complicated enough, Leila soon learns that the prosecutor she’ll be facing is the most ruthless one she’s ever known: her husband.

It’s an impossible situation, yet Leila is determined to sway the jury—until she’s blindsided by a shadowy figure from her past. Suddenly, she’s fighting not only for her client and her marriage, but to keep her own secrets buried. And if she has to rewrite the rules to win, so be it.

With unlikable characters and unreliable narrators, Dissection of a Murder leaves you questioning what exactly you just witnessed—and whether the truth was ever really there to uncover in the first place.

This wasn’t bad, but it just didn’t quite work for me. I seem to be in the minority, though, so if it sounds intriguing to you, check it out. Just don’t read any spoilers before you do!

The Queen's Game by Raymond Wemmlinger

The Queen's Game My Rating: 4.8

England, 1565

Queen Elizabeth Tudor is wary of the Grey cousins. Ever since the ill-fated Lady Jane Grey nearly wrested the throne from her family, Elizabeth has been determined to ensure that the fate of England does not fall into Grey hands.

She has banished Catherine Grey from court, along with her two children, but Catherine’s unmarried sister, Mary, remains at Whitehall Palace as one of Elizabeth’s courtiers. Mary has ambitions for her family and realizes she may be the only one who can continue the Grey bloodline, since Catherine’s marriage has been declared illegitimate. Worried that her scoliosis may make pregnancy difficult, Mary does not want to waste any time and begins searching for a suitable husband at court.

Meanwhile, she discovers that her cousin, Lord Darnley, is scheming to marry the widowed Mary, Queen of Scots. If the marriage goes ahead, Darnley’s child could have a strong claim to the English throne, making Mary Grey even more determined to produce an heir of her own. As the battle for succession intensifies, will Mary see the Grey family name rise to victory, or tumble into obscurity?

I’m really glad I read Philippa Gregory’s series first. Even though Wemmlinger’s books focus on more minor historical figures, I was already familiar with so many of the people and events surrounding them, details that aren’t explored as fully in this series. Having that background made the stories feel much richer to me.

I really enjoyed this five-book series. The books were very readable, and more importantly, the series stayed consistently good from beginning to end.

The Queen's Children by Raymond Wemmlinger

The Queen's Children My Rating: 4.8

Anne of Denmark, Queen of England, gives birth to her daughter Mary, her first child since coming to England in 1603, when her husband James succeeded to the English throne.

Although they would have preferred a son, both parents are pleased that the child is healthy, and their courtiers are thrilled by the birth of the first royal child on English soil in nearly seventy years.

The Scottish royal family has been welcomed by the English, and the reign has begun well, despite continuing tensions between Catholics and Protestants.

Anne enjoys the opportunities England gives her to pursue her artistic interests, but she often feels inferior to James and finds fulfillment in raising her four children, particularly her eldest son, Henry.

She is determined to arrange an engagement between Henry and the Spanish infanta. But with anti-Catholic sentiment on the rise, it may not be the wisest match.

Anne becomes pregnant again, but almost immediately the happy news is overshadowed by the discovery of the Gunpowder Plot—a conspiracy aimed at the near-total destruction of the royal family.

Wow, does this family go through a lot! I really felt for all of them, and even when I didn't agree with their plotting and choices, I could understand the motives behind them. Queen Anne was very tough!

I definitely recommend this series. I love how much history these books pack in while still being quick, absorbing reads. I'm off to the next book—the fifth and final one in the series!

The Queen's Cousin by Raymond Wemmlinger

The Queen's Cousin My Rating: 4.8

Scotland, 1594

Nineteen-year-old Anne of Denmark, Queen of Scotland, is thrilled and triumphant at the birth of a healthy baby boy, destined to reign as King of Scotland and, possibly, England.

But Anne’s enjoyment of maternal glory quickly fades as her husband, King James, fearing his son will be politically manipulated against him as he was against his mother, the deceased Mary Queen of Scots, removes the child permanently from her care.

Outraged, Anne tries to regain control of her son, initiating a bitter marital struggle that sours what had been a loving and harmonious marriage.

Anne is haunted by the giant legacies of Mary Stuart and Elizabeth Tudor on the thrones of Scotland and England, and she is determined to make her own mark.

Central to that ambition is securing the succession to the English throne from her husband’s cousin, the elderly and childless Queen Elizabeth.

I love how these books bring lesser-known people and events in history to life. I had no idea that Anne went to battle against James over their son Henry, or how the crowns of Scotland and England eventually came together. So interesting!

I also love how readable the writing is and that the books are relatively short while still giving me so much fascinating history. I’m diving right into the next one!

Dark Canyon by Louis L'Amour

Dark Canyon My Rating: 4.7

Dark Canyon follows Gaylord Riley, a former outlaw who leaves the Coburn gang behind to build an honest life. After establishing a ranch and falling in love with Marie Shattuck, his dreams are threatened when he is falsely accused of cattle rustling and murder. As a lynch mob closes in, Riley's former gang rides back to help, forcing them to outwit both the law and those determined to see Riley hanged.

If you enjoy Westerns and haven't discovered Louis L'Amour yet, you're in for a treat. Dark Canyon has everything that makes his novels so enjoyable - fast-paced action, memorable characters, and a strong story of loyalty, redemption, and courage. It was an entertaining read from beginning to end.

The Queen's Favorite by Raymond Wemmlinger

The Queen's Favorite My Rating: 4.9

England, 1558

Sixteen-year-old Catherine Seymour has always idolized her elder sister, Jane. Groomed from childhood to be a queen and marry her cousin, King Edward VI, Jane has remained determined to restore her family’s claim to the throne following her father's death death.

After spending time at Queen Mary’s court, Jane returns home to Hanworth Park, much to the delight of Catherine and their brother, Ned. To their surprise, Jane brings with her Lady Catherine Grey, sister of Jane Grey, the ill-fated nine-day queen, and an heiress to the throne after Princess Elizabeth.

Jane confides in Catherine that she hopes to arrange a betrothal between Lady Grey and Ned, giving their brother—and his future children—a chance to lay claim to the throne.

But everything changes when Queen Mary suddenly dies and Elizabeth succeeds her as queen. Now the sisters must seek the favor of a new monarch.

I really enjoyed The Queen’s Favorite. I felt for so many of the characters, but especially Catherine Seymour. There is so much plotting and maneuvering as the family tries to control its fate in a world where one wrong move can change everything.

This was very well done and such a quick, engaging read. I’m jumping straight into the next book in this five-book series!

Good People by Patmeena Sabit

Good People My Rating: 4.4

The Sharaf family is the picture of success—prosperous, wealthy, and admired. They arrived in America as refugees with nothing but the clothes on their backs, and through years of hard work built an enviable life in an exclusive neighborhood, with their children attending prestigious schools. Zorah, the eldest daughter, is especially cherished by her father.

When an unthinkable tragedy strikes, the family's carefully crafted image begins to unravel. Rumors spread that behind closed doors, the Sharafs' seemingly perfect life was anything but. Did they truly achieve the American dream, or was their reputation built on a carefully maintained façade?

Good People is told in the style of a true crime documentary, with friends, family members, and others recounting events through a series of interviews. It's a unique storytelling approach that kept me turning the pages, although I felt there wasn't quite enough substance to fully support the format.

I'm very familiar with Afghan culture and grew up in a different but somewhat similar environment, so that aspect of the story wasn't especially new to me. Readers who aren't familiar with the culture will likely find those elements much more compelling. What the book captured exceptionally well was how quickly gossip and the media can convict people without evidence, and how eager communities can be to speculate and judge. Ironically, that constant uncertainty was what kept me reading to the end. Shout-out to shoegaljeana on Instagram for putting this on my radar. 

The Queen's Rival by Raymond Wemm;inger

The Queen's Rival My Rating: 4.7

Lady Margaret Clifford is seventh in line to the English throne, so she expects her marriage to be a matter of great political importance. At just sixteen, she is stunned when her father considers a proposal from Sir Andrew Dudley, a mere knight.

As the powerful Dudley family maneuvers to strengthen its influence, Margaret finds herself caught in the dangerous politics surrounding the young King Edward VI. With Edward failing to produce an heir, the Dudleys place Lady Jane Grey on the throne in a bold attempt to secure their power.

When Edward dies, however, everything changes. Lady Jane's brief reign comes to a tragic end, Queen Mary claims the throne, and Margaret is sent to court as one of the queen's ladies-in-waiting. Although the Dudleys quickly fall from favor, Margaret still hopes to make a marriage worthy of her royal blood. First, though, she must earn the trust of a queen who sees rivals everywhere.

I enjoyed The Queen's Rival, but I was especially glad I had already read Philippa Gregory's Tudor novels. While Wimminger tells the story from a different perspective, I felt he moved through many major historical events fairly quickly. Because I already knew the broader history surrounding Lady Jane Grey, Queen Mary, and the political struggles of the period, I found this novel much richer than I think I would have otherwise.

If this had been my introduction to these events, I would have wanted more depth and detail. Instead, the book offers a lighter, faster-paced take on Tudor history. It reads more like a historical novel set during the period than a deeply immersive historical fiction. For readers who enjoy Tudor history but prefer a quicker, more accessible read than Philippa Gregory's novels, this is an enjoyable choice. I will definitely continue on with this series.

The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig

The Whistling Season My Rating: 4.8

Set in rural Montana in 1909, The Whistling Season begins when widower Oliver Milliron answers a newspaper ad from Rose Llewellyn, a cheerful housekeeper who arrives with her brilliant, unconventional brother, Morris Morgan. When the local schoolteacher unexpectedly leaves, Morris steps in, bringing lessons that extend far beyond the classroom and forever change the lives of Oliver, his sons, and the children of the small farming community.

I started this as an audiobook, but the narration made it feel overly syrupy sweet, and I almost DNF'd it. Thankfully, I switched to the Kindle version and decided to give it another chance. I'm so glad I did—it turned out to be a wonderful, heartwarming story with memorable characters and plenty of wisdom. I highly recommend this book, but I'd skip the audiobook and read it instead. I will be interested to hear what my book club thinks of this when we meet next week.

The Levee by William Kent Kreuger

The Levee  My Rating: 4.0

Set during the catastrophic Mississippi River flood of 1927, The Levee follows four men in a small rowboat as they attempt to rescue a family stranded behind a massive circular levee. Three of the men are convicts temporarily released from prison to help with rescue efforts, while their leader has motives of his own. When they reach the family estate, they discover that not everyone wants to leave, and as the floodwaters continue to rise, secrets, pride, greed, and loyalty complicate every decision.

I enjoyed this unique storyline, which read more like a murder mystery than a historical novel. The suspense kept me engaged, and I especially enjoyed listening to the audiobook. While it wasn't a favorite, it was an entertaining and worthwhile read.

Fervent by Priscilla Shirer

Fervent My Rating: 5.0

You have an enemy—and he is determined to destroy what you hold dear and keep you from experiencing the abundant life Christ offers. His attacks aren't random or one-size-fits-all. They're personal, targeted, and designed specifically for your weaknesses.

Fervent shows you how to fight back through intentional, strategic prayer. Each chapter helps you develop prayer strategies that target the enemy's tactics with the power of God's Word and the Holy Spirit. It's an empowering reminder that prayer is one of the most powerful weapons we have.

I love Priscilla Shirer's writing. It's passionate, authentic, and incredibly relatable. She helps you recognize the enemy's schemes and identify areas where you may be vulnerable, making it easier to stay alert and put on the full armor of God to protect yourself and your family.

This is a book I will return to, and I highly recommend it to anyone who wants to strengthen their prayer life and grow spiritually.

The Tie That Binds by Kent Haruf

The Tie That Binds My Rating: 4.9

Colorado, January 1977. Eighty-year-old Edith Goodnough lies in a hospital bed, IV taped to the back of her hand, police officer at her door. She is charged with murder. The clues: a sack of chicken feed slit with a knife, a milky-eyed dog tied outdoors one cold afternoon. The motives: the brutal business of farming and a family code of ethics as unforgiving as the winter prairie itself. Here, Kent Haruf delivers the sweeping tale of a woman of the American High Plains, as told by her neighbor, Sanders Roscoe. As Roscoe shares what he knows, Edith's tragedies unfold: a childhood of pre-dawn chores, a mother's death, a violence that leaves a father dependent on his children, forever enraged. Here is the story of a woman who sacrifices her happiness in the name of family--and then, in one gesture, reclaims her freedom.

Kent Haruf has a gift for writing that completely draws you into the lives of his characters. His prose is quiet and understated, yet so immersive that I felt as though I was living alongside them, experiencing every hardship and triumph.

From the very beginning, I loved Sandy's voice as he recounted the story of Edith, her family, and the events that shaped their lives. As the layers of the story unfolded, I found myself completely captivated. Haruf is a master storyteller, creating deeply human characters and an unforgettable sense of place without ever resorting to unnecessary drama.

His books continue to be among my favorites, and this one was no exception. I highly recommend it.

The Color of Water by James McBride

My Rating: 3.0

The Color of Water blends James McBride's own story with the life of his mother, Ruth McBride, born Rachel Shilsky. Through alternating chapters, readers learn about Ruth's difficult childhood as the daughter of an abusive Orthodox rabbi, her escape from a painful home in Virginia, her marriages, and her determination to raise twelve children despite poverty, racism, and hardship.

McBride weaves his own coming-of-age story throughout the book, sharing his experiences growing up as a mixed-race child, his struggles with identity, and the path that eventually led him to a successful life.

If you enjoy nonfiction and memoirs, you'll probably appreciate this book more than I did. While Ruth's story certainly contained its share of hardship and perseverance, I found myself much more interested in James McBride's chapters about his own childhood and his siblings than in Ruth's earlier life. The book explores themes of family, identity, race, and resilience, but overall it just wasn't a favorite for me.

Theo of Golden by Allen Levi

Theo of Golden My Rating: 10 out of 5

One spring morning, a stranger named Theo arrives in the small Southern town of Golden. He offers little explanation of where he came from or why he's there. But when he visits the local coffeehouse, where pencil portraits of the town's residents line the walls, he begins purchasing them one by one and giving each portrait to the person it depicts. In return, he asks for only one thing: their story.

Portrait by portrait and person by person, secrets are revealed, regrets are shared, and ordinary lives are quietly transformed.

A story about giving and receiving, seeing and being seen, Theo of Golden is an unforgettable novel about the power of generosity, the importance of human connection, and the quiet miracles that happen when we choose kindness.

This was a touching, wholesome, and absolutely wonderful book. Tears were shed.

This is the kind of book I want to recommend to everyone—even complete strangers. Don't read reviews or look up the plot. Just pick it up and read it.

I wish I would have read it last month when my book club discussed it but, better late than never. Though it's a short, gentle novel, its impact is lasting. It stays with you long after you've turned the final page and leaves you wanting to treat others with the same kindness, compassion, and quiet grace that Theo showed everyone he met.

We Are The Brennans by Tracey Lange

We Are The Brennans My Rating: 4.5

When twenty-nine-year-old Sunday Brennan wakes up in a Los Angeles hospital, bruised and battered after a drunk driving accident she caused, she swallows her pride and goes home to her family in New York. But it’s not easy. She deserted them all—and her high school sweetheart—five years before with little explanation, and they've got questions.

Sunday is determined to rebuild her life back on the east coast, even if it does mean tiptoeing around resentful brothers and an ex-fiancé. The longer she stays, however, the more she realizes they need her just as much as she needs them. When a dangerous man from her past brings her family’s pub business to the brink of financial ruin, the only way to protect them is to upend all their secrets—secrets that have damaged the family for generations and will threaten everything they know about their lives. In the aftermath, the Brennan family is forced to confront painful mistakes—and ultimately find a way forward, together.

This was an entertaining audio book of an Irish family and their relationship and drama. A lot of secrets that unraveled throughout the book but brought the family closer together. If you like a good Irish Catholic family story, this is for you.

The Reckoning by Sharon Kay Penman

The Reckoning  My Rating: 4.9

"Never forget, Llewelyn, that the world's greatest fool is a Welshman who trusts an English king."

His father's words haunt Llewelyn ap Gruffydd, Prince of Wales, who has been ruling uneasily over his fractious countrymen. Above all else, Llewelyn fears that his life and his own dream—of an independent, united Wales—might be lost to Edward I's desire to expand his English empire.

Alive from the pages of history, this is the hauntingly beautiful and compelling tale of a game poised to play itself out to its bloody finale as English and Welsh cross swords in a reckoning that must mean disaster for one side or the other.

For anyone who has ever wanted to experience the rich tapestry of British history and lore, this bold and romantic adventure must be read.

This is the third and final book in the *Prince of Wales* trilogy, and I'm genuinely sad it's over. It was an incredibly immersive journey through history, and I enjoyed every minute of it.

Not only did I learn so much about this fascinating period of Welsh and English history, but I also fell completely in love with many of the characters—both Llewelyns, Simon, Nell, Ellen, and so many others. Sharon Kay Penman has an extraordinary gift for bringing historical figures to life, making them feel like people you truly know and care about.

On the other hand, I was appalled by the weakness of King Henry II and the ruthless, autocratic rule of King Edward I. Penman portrays both the triumphs and tragedies of history with remarkable depth, making the emotional impact even more powerful.

One warning: don't Google any of the historical characters until you've finished the trilogy. Even a quick search can reveal major spoilers about the real historical events and the fates of the characters, which is much more rewarding to discover through Penman's storytelling.

This trilogy has become one of my favorite historical fiction series, and I can't wait to read more of Sharon Kay Penman's books.

Burial Rites by Hannah Kent

 Burial Rites My Rating: 1.0

Agnes is charged with the brutal murder of her former master and sent to await execution on an isolated farm. Horrified at the prospect of housing a convicted murderer, the family at first avoids Agnes. Only  a priest Agnes has mysteriously chosen to be her spiritual guardian, seeks to understand her. 

As Agnes's death looms, the farmer's wife and their daughters learn there is another side to the sensational story they've heard. 

I’m so glad I read The Good People first because if I had started with Burial Rites, I doubt I would have picked up another book by this author. What a disappointment.

I listened to the audiobook, and the whispery, breathy narration didn't help, but the bigger issue was the story itself. I never connected with a single character, and the novel felt like it had almost no plot. It was a long, drawn-out story where very little happened.

The writing itself is undeniably beautiful, but beautiful prose isn't enough for me. I need characters I care about and at least some sense of momentum. I think we were meant to feel sympathy for Agnes and the priest, but I never became invested in either of them.

I should have DNF'd this one, but I kept waiting for it to get better. It never did. Lesson learned.

Falls The Shadow by Sharon Kay Penman

Falls The Shadow My Rating: 4.9

Simon de Montfort was a man ahead of his time in the thirteenth century, a disinherited Frenchman who talked his way into an English earldom and married Eleanor ("Nell"), the sister of King Henry III. A charismatic, obstinate leader, Simon soon grew frustrated with the king's incompetence and inability to keep his word, and found himself the champion of the common people.

This is his story, and the story of Henry III, two men whose opposing personalities and convictions set them on a collision course that would end in violence, betrayal, and one of the most dramatic conflicts in English history.

This time period is completely new to me. I didn't know about Simon and didn't realize how weak Henry III was (ick!). Sharon Kay Penman brings these historical figures to life so vividly that I was completely immersed, especially in Simon's relationship with his remarkable wife, Nell.

I highly recommend this book and am jumping right into the third and final novel in the series.

Love Like You Mean It by Bob Lepine

Love Like You Mean It My Rating: 5.0

Every year, millions of men and women stand before family and friends and pledge their lifelong love and commitment to one another. But do they truly understand what marriage is meant to be?

Sadly, many people have only a shallow, superficial view of marriage. As a result, many marriages fail, while countless others simply survive instead of thriving.

In Love Like You Mean It, Bob Lepine provides a biblical understanding of what genuine love looks like by unpacking the ten attributes of love found in 1 Corinthians 13. He reminds us that lasting marital love is not primarily built on emotions but on daily choices and actions that, over time, deepen love and strengthen a marriage.

Whether you're married, engaged, considering marriage, or simply want to better understand God's design for marriage, this book offers practical, Scripture-based wisdom that is both convicting and encouraging.

This book was outstanding.

I thought my marriage was in pretty good shape until I read this book and realized, through Scripture, just how far I still have to go in loving my husband the way Christ calls me to. It challenged me in ways I wasn't expecting and gave me a much deeper understanding of what biblical love truly looks like.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to every married couple. If you're engaged or even thinking about getting married someday, read it before you say, "I do." I only wish I had discovered it 40 years ago. It's one of the best books on Christian marriage I've ever read.

The General's Daughter by Nelson DeMille

The General's Daughter My Rating: 4.4

When a respected career military officer is found raped and murdered, the investigation quickly uncovers evidence that points to a scandal reaching the highest levels of the military. The lead investigator is less than thrilled to discover he'll be working alongside a woman with whom he shared a turbulent romance years earlier. As they dig deeper, they realize the victim—the military's "golden girl"—had connections to several powerful people, any one of whom may have wanted her dead.

We listened to this audiobook during our commute between our two homes, and it kept us both entertained and guessing until the end. We really enjoy Nelson DeMille's writing, and now we're thinking about watching the movie starring John Travolta to see how it compares.

The Homesman by Glendon Swarthout

 The Homesman My Rating: 4.2

Set in the American West during the 1850s, The Homesman shines a light on a side of pioneer life that is often overlooked—the women. Life on the frontier was brutally hard, and many women were broken by the isolation, loss, and relentless hardships of homesteading.

When several women can no longer cope with life on the plains and must be escorted back East to a sanitarium, a "homesman" is needed to make the dangerous journey. When none of the local men volunteers, the task falls to Mary Bee Cuddy, a former teacher and unmarried woman who is both resourceful and remarkably determined.

The story follows their trek eastward, moving against the tide of westward expansion while facing harsh weather, loneliness, Indian attacks, and countless other dangers. It is a powerful and compelling tale filled with adventure, courage, and resilience.

I found this to be a wonderfully paced novel with strong character development. The vivid descriptions create an authentic sense of time and place, transporting the reader to an era when hardship, bravery, and loneliness were simply part of building a home and raising a family on the plains. Reading about the realities of frontier life made me realize there is no way I could have survived back then!

I was surprised to learn that this book was adapted into a movie, and after enjoying the novel so much, I may have to check it out.

Here Be Dragons by Sharon Kay Penman

Here Be Dragons My Rating: 4.9

Thirteenth-century Wales is a divided country, ever at the mercy of England's ruthless, power-hungry King John. Llewelyn, Prince of North Wales, secures an uneasy truce by marrying the English king's beloved illegitimate daughter, Joanna, who slowly grows to love her charismatic and courageous husband. But as John's attentions turn again and again to subduing Wales---and Llewelyn---Joanna must decide where her love and loyalties truly lie.

The turbulent clashes of two disparate worlds and the destinies of the individuals caught between them spring to life in this magnificent novel of power and passion, loyalty and lies. The book that began the trilogy that includes Falls the Shadow and The Reckoning, Here Be Dragons brings thirteenth-century England, France, and Wales to tangled, tempestuous life.

Despite the title, this is not fantasy - it is exceptional historical fiction. While the story is filled with battles and political conflicts, the real strength of the novel lies in its characters. They are so richly developed and compelling that I found myself staying up far too late reading because I simply had to know what happened next.

Sharon Kay Penman brings history to life in a way that feels both epic and deeply personal. By the time I turned the final page, I was completely invested in these characters and their world. I am thrilled that this is a trilogy because I cannot wait to continue the journey in the next book.

A definite recommendation and an easy addition to my "Best Of" list.

The Good People by Hannah Kent

The Good People My Rating: 4.6

Three women, drawn together to rescue a child from a superstitious community.

Nóra has lost her daughter and her husband in the same year, find herself alone and is now burdened with the care of her four-year-old grandson, Micheál. The boy cannot walk, or speak, and Nora, mistrustful of the tongues of gossips, has kept the child hidden from those who might see in his deformity evidence of otherworldly interference. 

A handmaid, Mary, arrives to help Nora just as rumors begin to spread that Micheal is a changeling child who is bringing bad luck to the valley. 

Determined to banish evil, Nora and Mary enlist the help of Nance, an elderly wanderer who understands the magic of the old ways.

This was based on true events in nineteenth century Ireland. This is a slow build and worth every minute. It is hard to believe that this is only Kent's second novel. The writing is rich and leads you into the world of superstition. I want to read her first novel which was shortlisted for the Women's Prize for Fiction and the Guardian First Book Award. It won the ABIA Literary Fiction Book of the Year, the Indie Awards Debut Fiction Book of the Year and the Victorian Premier's People's Choice Award, and was shortlisted for the International IMPAC Dublin Literary Award. Definitely recommend the audio version.

The Lost Man by Jane Harper

The Lost Man My Rating: 4.4

Set in the brutal, isolated Australian outback, the story begins when two brothers discover the body of their middle brother near a lonely stockman’s grave. The circumstances make no sense. He should never have been where he was found. As the family searches for answers, old resentments, buried secrets, and emotional wounds begin to surface.

The Australian setting plays a huge role in the story. The endless heat, the isolation, and the unforgiving landscape create a quiet intensity that stays with you the entire time. It feels immersive without being overly descriptive or heavy.

This is not a fast-paced thriller filled with nonstop action. It is thoughtful, layered, and emotionally intelligent. The mystery matters, but so do the complicated relationships, the weight of family history, and the loneliness that can exist even among people who know each other well.

If you enjoy mysteries that are atmospheric, character-driven, and genuinely absorbing, The Lost Man is absolutely worth adding to your list. I enjoyed the audio with the Australian accents.

The Last Train To London by Meg Waite Clayton

My Rating: 4.7

In 1936, the Nazis are little more than loud, brutish bores to fifteen-year-old Stephan Neuman, the son of a wealthy and influential Jewish family and an aspiring playwright whose playground stretches from the streets of Vienna to its intricate underground tunnels. Stephan’s closest companion is the brilliant Žofie-Helene, a Christian girl whose mother edits a progressive, anti-Nazi newspaper. But the carefree innocence of their adolescence is shattered when the Nazis seize control.

Based on the remarkable true story of Truus Wijsmuller, a member of the Dutch resistance, this novel follows one woman who risks her life smuggling Jewish children out of Nazi Germany to the few nations willing to take them in. Her mission becomes even more dangerous after the Anschluss—Hitler’s annexation of Austria—as countries across Europe begin closing their borders to the growing number of desperate refugees seeking escape.

Known as Tante Truus, she is determined to save as many children as possible. After Britain passes a measure allowing at-risk child refugees from the German Reich to enter the country, she boldly approaches Adolf Eichmann—the man who would later help devise the “Final Solution to the Jewish Question”—in a suspenseful race against time. Her efforts may be the only hope for children like Stephan, his younger brother Walter, and Žofie-Helene as they embark on a perilous journey toward an uncertain future.

It took me a little while to fully settle into this story, but once I did, it completely drew me in. The novel centers on the heartbreaking decisions parents faced as they sent their children away on The Kinder Transport, in hopes of saving their lives. The vast majority of these parents never saw their children again. Told primarily through the perspectives of the children, along with Tante Truus herself, the story captures both the horror of the time and the extraordinary courage of those determined to survive and help others.

Horse by Geraldine Brooks

 Horse by Geraldine Brooks My Rating: 4.6

I bet most of us have heard of Man o’ War, but have you heard of Lexington? What a story.

Set across three timelines, this book follows the incredible racehorse Lexington and the people connected to him through history. In 1850 Kentucky, an enslaved groom named Jarret forms a deep bond with a bay foal who will go on to become one of the greatest racehorses in American history. During the Civil War, their lives are turned upside down in ways that are both heartbreaking and unforgettable.

In 1954 New York, a gallery owner becomes fascinated with a mysterious equestrian painting, while in 2019 Washington, D.C., a Smithsonian scientist and an art historian begin uncovering the hidden history surrounding Lexington and the Black horsemen who helped shape racing history.

I REALLY enjoyed parts of this book… and other parts, not so much.

Let’s get the negatives out of the way first. The 2019 timeline felt very forced to me and preachy. Theo was probably the most pompous and unlikeable character in the book, and his relationship with Jess felt flat and unconvincing. Honestly, I also think the 1954 timeline could have been skipped entirely. At times this felt like three separate books mashed together, and I found myself wondering what the editor was thinking allowing such a hodgepodge to make it to print. (Brooks even managed to throw Jackson Pollock into the mix.)

Now for what I loved: the 1850 storyline absolutely carried this book for me. Jarret and Lexington completely stole my heart. Brooks beautifully captured the bond between horse and groom, along with the turmoil and heartbreak surrounding their journey. I also have to admit I was relieved that something truly horrific did not happen to Lexington - and I’ll leave it there to avoid spoilers.

Despite the parts I didn’t care for, I still definitely recommend this one for the historical storyline alone.

Thanks to shoegaljeana for the recommendation.

The Women Of Oakridge by Michelle Shocklee

The Women of Oak Ridge My Rating: 4.5

1944. Maebelle Willett arrives in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, eager to begin her new government job and send money home to her struggling family. She knows very little about the work she’s been assigned—only that it will help America win the war. But all is not what it seems. Though employees are forbidden from discussing their jobs, Mae’s roommate begins sharing unsettling information… and then suddenly disappears. As Mae searches for answers, she uncovers a life-altering truth—one that comes at a great personal cost.

1979. Laurel Willett, a graduate student in Boston, discovers the history of Oak Ridge, where thousands unknowingly worked on the development of the atomic bomb. Intrigued—especially because her Aunt Mae once worked there—Laurel spends the summer with her, hoping to include a personal connection in her thesis. But Mae refuses to speak about her past. Instead, her friends begin to share their stories, leading Laurel deeper into a mystery involving a missing woman. As the truth unfolds, the buried pain and guilt Mae has carried for decades begin to surface—with potentially devastating consequences.

I really enjoy Michelle Shocklee’s writing, especially her historical fiction. I also appreciate that her books are wholesome and clean and free of obscenity. Like her other novels, this one taught me so much history. I had never really thought about where or how the atomic bomb was developed—or the profound impact it had on the people involved in its creation.

The Other Queen by Philippa Gregory

The Other Queen My Rating: 4.6

Fleeing violent rebellion in Scotland, Mary, Queen of Scots, seeks refuge with Queen Elizabeth of England. Though promised protection, she is quickly seen as a threat to the English crown and placed under house arrest as a “guest” of George Talbot, Earl of Shrewsbury, and his formidable wife, Bess of Hardwick.

The couple, newly married and eager to gain favor at court, believes that hosting Mary will elevate their standing. Instead, her presence drains their finances and entangles them in a dangerous web of political intrigue. As their home becomes a center of rebellion and suspicion, they begin to realize the true cost of their assignment.

Meanwhile, Mary is far from powerless. Skilled in manipulation, she draws the earl into her orbit and carefully plots her next move—determined to reclaim her Scottish throne and challenge Elizabeth for England itself.

The Other Queen is the final book in The Plantagenet and Tudor Novels and brings the series to a dramatic close. Elizabeth is portrayed as deeply insecure and driven by fear, which shapes her harsh treatment of Mary. In contrast, Mary’s resilience and ability to influence those around her - especially Shrewsbury - add depth to her character.

Reading through this series has been fascinating, especially seeing the recurring themes of ambition, betrayal, and political maneuvering during the Tudor era.