And Then Everything Unraveled by Jennifer Sturman

Mini-Review:
Delia is sent to live with her aunts in New York City after her mother's ship goes missing. Delia's mother, T.K. has been estranged from her two sisters Charity "Charley" and Patience "Patty" for quite some time. Delia isn't sure what to expect when she's sent to live with aunts she only knows from a picture.

Her aunt Charley is care-free while her aunt Patty is a bit rigid (read high-strung). Delia is convinced she won't be in NYC for very long because her mother is not dead (despite what everyone else thinks). She decides to hire a private investigator to look into her mother's disappearance. As clues begin to pile up that her mother is in fact alive, Delia finds herself in harm's way.

With a great supporting cast, a light mystery and first-time love, And Then Everything Unraveled is one not to be missed. I'm looking forward to reading the sequel.

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-0-545-08722-3
Pages: 244
Year Published: 2009
Genre: YA Mystery
Source: Library
Date Finished: December 27

The Christmas Secret by Donna Van Liere

During the holiday season, I enjoy reading a feel-good Christmas story. This season, The Christmas Secret was a perfect fit for me. Christine has been cynical for most of her life. She stopped believing in the miracles of Christmas a long time ago. Struggling to make ends meet, Christmas is now one more thing that will set her back and something she just can't afford. Christine wants to see and feel the beauty of Christmas once again, but unfortunately life and unexpected events have harden her.

I'm always waiting it seems—waiting for the right time, the right job, for the light to turn green, waiting on a call, waiting for my past to catch up with me, and for my future to begin.

I got to the point in my life where I was so tired of waiting and wanted to know that my life was not just leading anywhere but somewhere. I wanted that childhood sense of wonderment back. The crazy how, when, and why of life finally caught up with me and I realized that there was no Oz, fairy-tale king, or Scrooge waking up from a dream moment that was going to whisk me away from reality, and that's when I wanted Christmas again. (p.6)

Once again Christine is running late for work when she crosses path with a stranger. Little does she know that this interaction will lead her to a new beginning.

Like the previous novels in the Christmas Hope series, The Christmas Secret leaves the reader feeling encouraged and hopeful about life, without being too "preachy". People and events come into our lives for a purpose. What we may view as an inconvenience, may be just the thing that leads us to where we want to be.

Book details:
Series: Christmas Hope #5
ISBN-13: 978-0-312-55836-9
Pages: 291
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Fiction - Holiday
Source: Library
Date Finished: December 20

The Christmas List by Richard Paul Evans

James Kier is reading his morning paper when he reads an obituary. His obituary. Puzzled by the false report, he searches the internet and finds a story explaining his death. Even though he knows he's very much alive, it's the anonymous, (and not so anonymous) unsympathetic comments he reads, that cause him to re-evaluate his life.

James Kier is a shrewd real state investor. He's richer than rich and will be the first to admit he's taken advantage of many individuals to reach the top spot. Does he feel guilty? No, don't be foolish! If these individuals weren't so weak in the first place, he wouldn't have taken advantage of them. So it's really their fault.

Shaken up by the comments, James finds his namesake and attends the repast at his house. The deceased James Kier was a humble man. He didn't live in a big mansion or drive an expensive car. Quite the opposite in fact. He was a school bus driver and touched the lives of many students. He was a dedicated husband and loving father. His presence will be missed by so many.

As James speaks to the widow and her son, he realizes for the first time what a good, decent man really is. This awareness changes him forever. He decides, with the help of his assistant, to make amends with the five people he has hurt the most. Will they welcome his apology? Have they long ago forgiven him for his ways? Or will they slam the door in his face before he can say he's sorry? James is not sure, but determined to find out.

Meanwhile, his only son is getting married and doesn't want James to attend the wedding. He was an absent father and did the despicable: he left his mother when she needed him the most. Will his son forgive him for his past mistakes? Or is it too late for a reconciliation?

Mr. Evans has a talent for writing inspirational holiday stories. The Christmas List is a treasure waiting to be discovered.

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-1-4391-5000-9
Pages: 349
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Fiction (Holiday)
Source: Library book
Date Finished: December 19

Hounding the Pavement by Judi McCoy

My synopsis:
Ellie Engleman is the newest dog walker on the Upper East Side. She's recently divorced and wants to live her life as she sees fit. So when she arrives at one of her charge's home, she discovers his owner's body and the dog is missing. Detective Sam Ryder has been assigned to the case. Can the two of them work together to solve the mystery before another dog is taken?

My review:
Ellie Engleman has a new job. Her dream job. She's a dog walker. Ellie also discovered she can hear their thoughts as well as they can hear hers. Imagine her surprise when she learns the dog she recently adopted has been taken over by her former dog's spirit.

As Ellie is trying to build her clientele, she has to also deal with two conniving dog walkers who will do anything to protect their turf. You see, being a dog walker is serious business in NYC, especially on the Upper East Side. Ellie doesn't allow their threats to scare her. When she finds one of her clients dead and his prized dog missing, Ellie knows what she must do: FIND THE DOG!

I'm not sure where I first heard of Hounding the Pavement. Perhaps during a weekly visit to a book store or maybe someone recommended it to me. Being an animal lover myself (and always on the hunt for a new series), I decided to go ahead and buy it. The beginning of the book was quick. I found myself instantly drawn into the story wondering how the missing dog would tie into his owner's death.

Somewhere in the middle, I just lost interest. Several times I thought about putting down the book, but decided to keep reading as I wanted to know what happened to the dog?!? (Oh, yeah and who killed his owner - I know it's an afterthought!) I can't say I was surprised by the ending. The reader can easily figure it out. Even though the mystery was light, I did enjoy the budding relationship between Ellie and Sam.

Despite having mixed thoughts about Hounding the Pavement, I plan to read book two of the series, Heir of the Dog.

About the author:
Ms. McCoy is donating all royalties she earns on sales of this book to Best Friends Animal Society.

Book details:
Series: A Dog Walker Mystery #1
ISBN-13: 978-0-451-22631-0
Pages: 305
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Source: Purchased copy
Date Finished: November 24

I, Alex Cross by James Patterson

Book Synopsis:
Alex Cross is celebrating his birthday with family when he receives a disturbing phone call. His niece has been found brutally murdered. When Alex goes to identify her remains, he's shocked to learn what's left of her body. Alex takes this case personally as he tracks down a sadistic and ruthless killer.

My review:
Alex Cross, without doubt, is my favorite series. I started reading this series in graduate school and continue to look forward to each November for the latest release. I really like Alex Cross, the man. He's intelligent, dedicated, attractive, a family man and professional. Like any other parent, he tries to balance his home life with his work life. Sometimes he succeeds and other times it hurts him to have to disappoint his family one more time.

I, Alex Cross, for me, returned to the Alex Cross books of the past. Last year's Cross Country was a miss for me, so I hoped I would enjoy reading I, Alex Cross. And I was not disappointed. As Alex is hunting down a killer, that may be connected with The White House, he's also dealing with an unexpected crisis on home. I won't reveal the details of his personal crisis to avoid spoilers, but I will say the reader feels compassion for Alex as he tries to handle both stressful situations.

Mr. Patterson did an excellent job with his latest villain. While reading several scenes, I literally squirmed as I pictured what was happening to the victims. And when the killer is finally revealed, I was shocked! I didn't see that coming at all. I, Alex Cross ended perfectly for me. One of my favorite characters has returned to let Alex know he's always watching. The sad part is I have to wait until next November to find out what happens next!

Book details:
Series: Alex Cross
ISBN-13: 978-0-316-1878-4
Pages: 374
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Mystery/Suspense, Thriller (Series)
Source: Purchased copy
Date Finished: December 7

Perfect Mistake by Kate Brian

Book Synopsis:
Ariana Osgood, now known as Briana Leigh Covington ("Ana" to her friends), finally has the life she has carefully constructed. She's attending Atherton-Pryce, an elite boarding school, moving into the most coveted dorm on campus and her crush has just broken up with his long-time girlfriend. Now he's available to date her! What more could Ariana ask for? Just as things are starting to fall into place for her, her nemesis, Kaitlynn, is now a student at Atherton-Pryce. Will Kaitlynn reveal Ariana's secret?

My thoughts:
Ariana Osgood is a character most readers would love to hate. Actually, I don't. I admit I have a strong dislike for people who cheat, lie, manipulate or do whatever it takes to get what they want. Ariana is guilty of all three and she even killed her namesake to steal her life (and money). Despite knowing these things, there's still a part of me that just likes Ariana.

In the first two books of the series, we learn more about Ariana's reasoning for wanting revenge (which actually started to develop during the Private series with Reed). In Perfect Mistake, Ariana struggles against resorting to her old behavior now that she finally belongs. But Kaitlynn's return makes it quite difficult for her.

Kaitlynn is ruthless. Actually, that's putting it mildly. What's worse than ruthless? EVIL?!? She's the type of girl who will stab you in the back (literally) and then go on a shopping spree as if nothing happened. Kaitlynn's one goal is to make Ariana's life miserable and naturally she succeeds. She threatens to harm Ariana's friends if Ariana does not submit to her demands. Fed up, Ariana tries to take matters into her own hands, however Kaitlynn is always one step ahead of her and foils her plans.

To make matters worse, both girls have been tapped for the secret society on campus. Problem is there are four openings and five girls. Kaitlynn wants Ariana to make sure she is one of the chosen or else. Ariana feels she has no choice but to given in to Kaitlynn.

Honestly, it must be hard to be Ariana. She's trying to maintain her 4.0 GPA, plot and scheme to get her enemy off her back, hook up her best friend with a new guy so she can date her former boyfriend and maintain her deadly secret. Whew! How exhausted she must feel. Would her exhaustion be her downfall? Only time will tell.

True to Ms. Brian's style, Perfect Mistake ends with a cliffhanger. One that made me want to immediately pick up the fourth book. Unfortunately I will have to wait until June 8th to find out what happens, when Sweet Deceit is released.

Fans of the Privilege series will not be disappointment with this third installment.

Here's hoping...
Before the end of the two series, I would like for Ms. Brian to reunite Ariana with the Billings Girls: Noelle, Reed, Taylor, Kiran, etc. to make both series come full circle. I want to know what Noelle would do if she learns Ariana is still alive...

Book details:
Series: Privilege #3
ISBN-13: 978-1-4169-6761-3
Pages: 231
Year Published: 2009
Genre: YA Fiction (Series)
Source: Library
Date Finished: December 13

Suspicion by Kate Brian

Book Synopsis:

Forbidden fruit...

Reed, Noelle, and former Billings Girls Kiran and Taylor have been living it up on St. Barths over winter break. The tropical sun has melted away all the tensions of last semester, and for the first time in months, Reed is happy. She's got her best friends by her side, she has a palatial suite with an ocean view, and she's landed Upton, the most sought-after guy on the island.

Reed is falling in love.

But dating Upton makes Reed St. Barths' highest-profile guest — and not in a good way. Upton has a dark past, and he's broken a lot of hearts. One of his exes still wants him. And she'll do whatever it takes to get Reed out of the picture.

My thoughts:
Suspicion begins where Paradise Lost ended. Reed is mysteriously pushed off a yacht during a party and is treading water. She's eventually rescued by Sawyer and later taken to the hospital for observation. Terrified that someone tried to kill her, she immediately decides to go home. However, Noelle talks her into staying for the remainder of their vacation. During this time, Reed's life is threatened again, she learns the secret that Upton has been keeping and the reader learns the identity of the person who wants Reed out of the picture.

I have to say this edition to the Private series was my least favorite. I thought it was mostly "a filler" book and found myself struggling to stay focused while reading. The saving grace was the last chapter when Reed and her friends returned to Easton Academy from winter break. The unexpected has happened to their beloved Billings House. Most importantly, there's a new student starting at Easton. Which will make for quite an interesting semester for Reed. Scandal, book eleven will be released on March 9, 2010.

Book details:
Series: Private #10
ISBN-13: 978-1-4169-5885-7
Pages: 211
Year Published: 2009
Genre: YA Fiction (Series)
Source: Library
Date Finished: October 30

The Secret of Joy by Melissa Senate

Imagine growing up wanting a sister. What would you do if that childhood wish suddenly came true? How would you respond if your father confessed to a summer affair as he lay dying? And so begins The Secret of Joy by Melissa Senate.

Rebecca Strand is a twenty-something woman living and working in New York City. She’s a paralegal for Whitman, Goldman & Whitman. She’s dating (and living with) Michael, her lawyer boyfriend, and she's contemplating their future together. A future that comes to a screeching halt when her father is diagnosed with pancreatic cancer and given weeks to live. Having lost her mother at nineteen and being the only child, Rebecca is extremely close to her father and cannot begin to envision what her life will be like without him.

During one of her hospital visits, her father discloses a summer affair with Pia Jayhawk. An affair that occurred during one of their family vacations in Maine. The affair was over before it started and Daniel Strand returned home and stepped back into his life. Out of the blue Pia calls him to tell him she’s pregnant. She calls again to tell him he has a daughter. He never returned her call and remained silent about his newborn daughter and his relationship with Pia. Now that he’s dying, he wants Rebecca to know the truth. A truth that may complicated her life and cause her to view him differently.

After her father’s death, Rebecca begins to question her life and the direction she’s headed. Is Michael the one? Is New York really her home? What about her job? The job she loathes. Does she have the courage to pursue her dream of becoming a therapist? As she ponders these questions, she begins to wonder about her half-sister. She sets off to Maine to find Joy Jayhawk, not really sure what to expect when she meets her for the first time.

When I first read the title of the book, I assumed it meant her father’s secret affair and his secret daughter, Joy. But, as I continued to read about Rebecca's life and the lives of the supporting characters, I realized the title was about the secret of. . . well. . . joy. The characters are all struggling with an issue in their lives that is causing them pain and turmoil. As each comes to the fork in the road where they either move towards a resolution or continue down the same hurtful path, the author illustrates the difficult, but necessary, truths we must face in order to experience the peace we want in life. Rebecca struggles with the loss of her parents, the impact of her father’s affair, not only on her, but Joy and Joy’s mother. While Joy struggles with growing up without her father which resulted in her being emotionally detached from her husband.

To make amends with his decision, Daniel Strand writes a letter to Joy every year on her birthday. As Rebecca reads these letters, she begins to have insight about her father as a man and a husband. It's not until she reads the last letter he wrote to Joy that she truly understands the love he felt for Joy and how his decision kept two innocent sisters from knowing each other.

The reader will feel compassion for Rebecca as she loses the only family she knows and gains a sister she has always wanted. The Secret of Joy is a great read, with a likable main character and a great supporting cast. Pick it up. Read it. You won't be disappointed.

Thanks to Sarah Reidy, of Pocket Books, for providing this review copy.

Random tidbits: If you're interested in The Secret of Joy for your next book club selection, there's a reading discussion guide included (there's also a Q&A with Ms. Senate, which I recommend you read as well).

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-1-4391-0717-1
Pages: 330
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Women's Fiction
Source: Publisher provided this copy for a blog tour
Date Finished: November 15

Other blogs participating in this blog tour:

http://books-movies-chinesefood.blogspot.com/
http://bookingmama.blogspot.com/
http://frugalplus.com/
http://www.bookwormygirl.blogspot.com/
http://www.rundpinne.blogspot.com/
http://brizmusblogsbooks.blogspot.com
http://www.psychoticstate.blogspot.com/
http://www.buuklvr81.blogspot.com
http://startingfresh-gaby317.blogspot.com/
http://aseaofbooks.blogspot.com/
http://thatsanovelidea.blogspot.com
http://myfoolishwisdom.blogspot.com/
http://my-book-views.blogspot.com/
http://dreyslibrary.blogspot.com/
http://justanothernewblog.blogspot.com/
http://bookjourney.wordpress.com/
http://booksiesblog.blogspot.com
http://booknaround.blogspot.com
http://keeponbooking.blogspot.com
http://www.ziarias.blogspot.com/
http://bethsbookreviewblog.blogspot.com/
http://bridget3420.blogspot.com/
http://myreadingroom-crystal.blogspot.com
www.mybookaddictionandmore.wordpress.com
http://www.crazy-for-books.com
http://www.bellasnovella.com/
http://www.blogbusinessworld.blogspot.com
http://ilratb.blogspot.com/
http://www.myfriendamysblog.com
http://bookmagic418.blogspot.com/
http://haleymathiot.blogspot.com/
http://purplg8r-somanybooks.blogspot.com/
http://www.jeannesramblings.com
http://redheadedbookchild.blogspot.com
http://readingwithtequila.blogspot.com
http://maryinhb.blogspot.com/
http://jensbooktalk.blogspot.com/
http://molcotw.blogspot.com/
http://litandlife.blogspot.com
http://entertainmentrealm.com/

The New Girl by Meg Cabot

Book synopsis:
When you are starting at a brand-new school, you have to wear something good.

Allie Finkle's starting her first day of school at Pine Heights Elementary! Plus, she's getting a new kitten, the first pick of show cat Lady Serena Archibald's letter!

But being the New Girl is turning out to be scary, too, especially since one of the girls in Allie's new class -- Rosemary -- doesn't like her. In fact, Rosemary says she's going to beat Allie up after school.

Everyone seems to have an opinion on how Allie should handle the situation. How can Allie tell who's right? Who knew it was going to be so hard being the New Girl?

My review:
Allie Finkle is starting a new school. It's her first day and she is nervous! Luckily for Allie she's in Mrs. Hunter's class with her new friends Erica, Caroline and Sophie. Her first day starts out well until she meets Rosemary. For whatever reason, Rosemary doesn't like Allie and wants to beat her up! Allie's not sure what to do, but thank goodness she has her rules for girls.

The New Girl is book two of the Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls series. Allie is adapting to her new home, new school and trying to make new friends. I enjoyed this book as much as the first. Allie is very likable and the reader will root for her as she finds her way being the new girl in fourth grade.

Book details:
Series: Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls #2
ISBN-13: 978-0-545-04049-5
Pages: 222
Year Published: 2008
Genre: Children's Fiction (Series)
Source: Library
Date Finished: October 24

Moving Day by Meg Cabot

Book synopsis:
I like rules. What I'm not so crazy about is everything else.

When nine-year-old Allie Finkle's parents announce that the family is moving, Allie's sure her life is over.

She's not at all happy about having to give up her pretty pink wall-to-wall carpeting for creaky floorboards and creepy secret passageways...not to mention leaving her modern, state-of-the-art suburban school for a rundown, old-fashioned school just two blocks from her new house.

With a room she's half-scared to go into, the burden of being "the new girl", and her old friends all a half-hour car ride away, how will Allie ever learn to fit in?

My review:
My first book of Ms. Cabot's was The Boy Next Door (which I loved and still recommend quite often) and from there I was introduced to the Heather Wells mystery series. I've enjoyed her books so much, that I spent most of my time last year reading her young adult collection. So when I heard she was working on a new children's series, I was curious to know more about it.

Meet Allie Finkle. She's nine years old, currently in the fourth grade, big sister to Mark and Kevin and best friends with Mary Kay. Okay, may be Allie would like to have a new best friend. Someone who doesn't cry all the time. Or someone who will allow Allie to decide what game to play next. Other than that, Allie's life is pretty good. Until her parents say these two small words: "we're moving".

Why would her parents leave their gorgeous home only to move into a falling-down Victorian? (Let's not even talk about that fact the house is probably haunted!) On top of that, her new school isn't so "new". The building is rundown and the gym is also the lunchroom! (Eww...need I say more??)

Allie has to think of something quick before her parents ruin her life. She's promised to be on her best behavior and not complain about the move. If she keeps her promise, her parents will allow her to have her very own pet: a kitten (the family also has a dog). The question is, can she stop the move, but still get the kitten?

I love Allie Finkle! Allie is a cute girl, with a big heart, who is trying to do the right thing all the time. To make sure she stays on the right path, she created rules for herself. Here are some of her rules:

• When you finally figure out what the right thing to do is, you have to do it, even if you don't want to.
• Don't be a braggart.
• Sometimes (but not always) it's better just to keep things to yourself.
• You can't let your family move into a haunted house.
• If you get a new best friend, it's rude to show off about it.

If I were nine again, I would want Allie to be my friend. She's creative, energetic, spunky and just fun! I loved reading Moving Day and cannot wait to read more from this series.

Random tidbit: Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls series would be a wonderful selection for a mother/daughter book club.

Book details:
Series: Allie Finkle's Rules for Girls #1
ISBN-13: 978-0-545-03947-5
Pages: 228
Year Published: 2008
Genre: Children's Fiction (Series)
Source: Library
Date Finished: October 24

The New Girl by Nancy Krulik

My review:
It's time for the school carnival! Jenny McAfee has several good ideas for a booth, however Addie, her former BFF now a Pop, makes fun of her ideas. Addie believes she will raise more money from her carnival booth. So much so, she challenges Jenny to a bet: whichever girl doesn't raise the most money will have to wear their pajamas to school!

Jenny's friends want to help Jenny win this bet. Jenny cannot lose to a Pop! They will NEVER stop teasing her about it. As the school carnival draws near, Addie and the Pops mock Jenny about the pajamas she will have to wear because after all, Addie's idea is better than Jenny's. There's just one thing that could jeopardize Addie's certain win: the new girl.

Samantha "Sam" recently moved from England. Soon Sam is befriended by the Pops. The girls imitate her style and begin using faux English accents. Addie is jealous with all the attention her friends are now showing Sam. Addie wonders if Sam will replace her as "Queen Bee". To make sure this doesn't happen, she has a plan. A plan that will ruin Sam's reputation and make sure Jenny doesn't win their bet.

Book details:
Series: How I Survived Middle School #4
ISBN-13: 978-0-545-01303-1
Pages: 100
Year Published: 2007
Genre: Children's Fiction (Series)
Source: Library
Date Finished: October 24

I Heard a Rumor by Nancy Krulik

My review:
The Joyce Kilmer Middle School has added a new feature to its newspaper: a gossip column written by "Madame X". No student is safe from having his/her secrets disclosed to the entire school. Jenny McAfee and her friends find themselves at odds when a rumor is written about one of their friends. Soon Jenny doesn't know if she can trust anyone. To make matters worse, her former best friend Addy, now a "Pop" is being nice to her. Does Addy want to be Jenny's BFF again? Or has Madame X's exposure of the Pops' secrets driven a wall between Addy and her popular friends?

I Heard a Rumor is book three of "How I Survived Middle School" series. Join Jenny and her friends as they maneuver their way through 6th grade and deal with the day-to-day antics of the Pops.

Book details:
Series: How I Survived Middle School #3
ISBN-13: 978-0-439-02557-7
Pages: 106
Year Published: 2007
Genre: Children's Fiction (Series)
Source: Library
Date Finished: October 24

3 Mini-Reviews

Well, once again I find myself behind in writing my book reviews. For the last week or so, I've been debating whether or not to write them or not write them. Decisions, decisions...

I finally decided to end my stress and post a mini-summary for each book. I hate getting behind on my reviews, but worse than that, I hate the stress that I feel when I get behind. I'm brainstorming ways to stay on top of reviews moving forward (especially in the new year). Hopefully I can find something that will work for me.


Title: After You
Author: Julie Buxbaum
Genre: Women's Fiction
Date Finished: September 16

Summary: When Ellie learns of her best friend’s, Lucy, tragic death, she puts her life on hold (including her own marital problems) to be with Lucy’s husband, Greg and daughter Sophie. As Ellie tries to cope with Lucy’s shortened life, she discovers Lucy’s hidden secrets that cause Ellie to question their friendship. After You is a book about personal healing after a loss. Whether it’s the death of a loved one, end of a relationship or the loss of innocence. After You explores the necessary steps to move forward and begin again where you are.


Title: The Neighbor
Author: Lisa Gardner
Genre: Mystery/Suspense
Date Finished: October 7

Summary: From a distance Jason and Sandra Jones appear to be the perfect couple. They have a beautiful daughter, a new house and are in the beginning stages of building a life together. Their perfect façade slowly begins to crumble with Sandra goes missing shortly after putting their daughter to bed. Jason immediately turns into the prime suspect when he’s aloof and uncooperative with the police. What exactly is he hiding? Does he want his wife to be found? If he didn't kill her, does he know who did? These questions are what Detective Sergeant D.D. Warren is determined to find out.


Title: Dying for Mercy
Author: Mary Jane Clark
Genre: Mystery/Suspense
Date Finished: October 17

Summary: Following the kidnapping of her daughter, Janie, Eliza Blake decides to rent a house in prestigious Tuxedo Park, New York. She’s invited to a party and before the night ends, the host commits suicide by stigmata. As Eliza and her colleagues, AKA the Sunshine Suspense Society, begin to investigate, they realize he left clues behind that will piece together a cover-up that happened years ago. Can Eliza and her friends find the killer’s identity before they become the next victims?

Dial Emmy for Murder by Eileen Davidson

Readers were first introduced to Alexis Peterson in Daytime in Death, book one of A Soap Opera Mystery series. Alex is the number one suspect in the murder investigation of a head writer on The Yearning Tide. Determined to clear her name, she begins her own investigation and finds she's quite good at being an amateur sleuth.

In Dial Emmy for Murder, Alex has left her former soap, The Yearning Tide, and is now a cast member of The Bare and the Brazen. It's the night of the Daytime Emmy Awards and Alex is one of the presenters. When her co-star and fellow presenter, Jackson Masters, doesn't show, Alex is forced to present the award herself. Little does she know, she's about to walk into another murder investigation.

Dial Emmy for Murder is a light, cozy mystery. The killer is evident as soon as he/she is introduced in the storyline, however this book is an enjoyable read. I have to admit, I was more interested in the blooming relationship between Alex and Detective Jakes than the murder investigation. There's also a sub-plot regarding Alex and her estranged husband. He embezzled money from his clients and stole Alex's retirement fund. Now he's back and is demanding to see their daughter.

If you're looking for a entertaining story, with a light mystery thrown in, then Dial Emmy for Murder is the answer. Book three of the series is in the works. Can't wait? There's a sneak peek included in Dial Emmy for Murder.

Book details:
Series: A Soap Opera Mystery #2
ISBN-13: 978-0-451-22825-3
Pages: 284
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Cozy Mystery
Date Finished: September 9

The Last Song by Nicholas Sparks

Book Synopsis:
Seventeen-year-old Veronica "Ronnie" Miller's life was turned upside down when her parents divorced and her father moved from New York City to Wrightsville Beach, North Carolina. Three yeas later, she remains angry and alienated from her parents, particularly her father...until her mother decides it would be in everyone's best interest i she and her younger brother spent the summer with him in North Carolina.

Ronnie's father, a former concert pianist, is living a quiet life in the beach town, immersed in creating a work of art that will be the centerpiece of a local church. Resentful and rebellious, Ronnie rejects all of his attempts to reach out to her and threatens to return to New York before the summer's end. But soon Ronnie meets Will, the town's local heartthrob, and the last person she thought she'd ever be attracted to. As Ronnie slowly lets her guard down, she finds herself falling deeply in love, opening herself up to the greatest happiness⎯and pain⎯that she has ever known.

An unforgettable story of love in all its myriad forms⎯first love, love between parents and children⎯THE LAST SONG demonstrates, as only a Nicholas Sparks novel can, the many ways that love can break our hearts...and heal them.

My thoughts:
When Miriam Parker, Hachette Book Group USA, offered me the chance to receive an ARC of The Last Song, I immediately accepted. I've only read A Walk to Remember and The Notebook by this author, however I've heard and read glowing reviews about his books. After reading the last page (and wiping away my tears), I knew I had to add his remaining books to my TBR List.

My first thought when I started reading The Last Song, was this is the perfect book to read to finish out the summer. I thought it would be light, but an enjoyable read. To my delight, it became so much more as I read more of Ronnie's story.

Ronnie and her brother Jonah are sent to North Carolina to spend the summer with their estranged father. Their father left his prestigious position at Julliard to pursue his dream of being a concert pianist. His time away put a strain on his family and eventually ended his marriage. He now calls Wrightville Beach, NC home.

Ronnie never forgave her father for ruining their family. In fact, she hasn't spoken to him in three years. She's livid that her mother is forcing her to do this. As soon as she sets foot in her father's house, she's determined to plan her return back to New York. As soon as she enters her father's house, she puts distance between them by spending her first night away from his home. It's on this night that she first meets Will followed by Blaze. It's this night that will change her summer.

The Last Song is told in four differing points of view: Ronnie, Steve, Will and Marcus. Through each perspective, Mr. Sparks reveals more of the story and at times flashing back to the past to provide more history. Each character has something to add to the events of that summer and reading it in his or her own voice adds to the realness of the story.

Early on I had a hint of how the novel would end. As I realized my assumption was right, it didn't prepare me for the emotions I felt as I continued to read. The Last Song isn't only about love. It's also about learning how to forgive yourself for your past mistakes so you can move forward. This is evident as Ronnie struggles to forgive herself for allowing her anger and hurt to prevent her from having a relationship with her father. During this summer, Ronnie realizes despite her behavior, her father's love remained unconditional.

Steve, Ronnie's and Jonah's father, spends time quietly reading his Bible. It's during these devotionals, that Steve has forgiven himself and draws closer to God. Mr. Sparks did a fantastic job of using Steve's devotions to illustrate that through God, new beginnings are possible, despite your past, if you have faith, believe and put your trust in God. He continues to illustrate new beginnings by restoring broken relationships between a parent and child, the destroying and reconstruction of a church and learning to love and respect yourself.

The Last Song is an emotionally charged novel, one that I highly recommend. I suggest you read with tissues nearby. It will grabbed the reader and won't let go until the very last page. I want to thank Miriam for the opportunity to review this book.

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-0-446-54756-7
Pages: 390
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Fiction
Date Finished: September 6
Rating: A+

The Penny Pinchers Club by Sarah Strohmeyer

Book Synopsis:
A timely (and recession-proof) treat about the things money can⎯and can't⎯buy.

Living in New Jersey⎯the state that boasts the most malls per capita⎯Kat's favorite recreational activity is a no-brainer: shopping. But when she discovers that her husband, Griff, has been hiding a secret bank account and exchanging dubious e-mails with his attractive young assistant, her joyful consumerism suddenly loses its appeal. Are their fights about money more serious than she understood? Is he, as her friends suggest, preparing for a divorce? Just in case, Kat decides it's time to start saving. Unfortunately, having racked up tens of thousands of dollars in debt (of course she needed those tiki torches from Pier 1!), Kat finds herself in way over her head.

Drastic times call for drastic measures: Kat starts by canceling cable and kicking her $240 monthly Starbucks habit. But what starts out as a simple effort to cut costs soon becomes an over-the-top obsession when Kat joins an eclectic but lovable group of savers called the Penny Pinchers Club. Soon she is pumping her gas at dawn (when it is thicker) and serving dinner made from food she retrieved at the grocery store Dumpster. Kat is saving money, to be sure, but what she's really saving is time⎯time she spends with Griff, their daughter . . . and an old flame, who resurfaces at precisely the wrong moment, offering Kat a life where money is no object.

An irresistible and wonderfully warmhearted novel about the unexpected ways hardship can lead to happiness, The Penny Pinchers Club is the perfect pick-me-up for these troubled times.

My thoughts:
Kat loves to shop. She shops and shops and doesn't pay much attention to the bills. In fact, she's afraid of her bills. Luckily, (or maybe not) her husband handles their finances. Kat believes she has a good marriage with Griff. Well, that's until she finds condom wrappers in his suitcase when he comes home from a business trip. To make matters worse, she learns he has a secret credit card and a bank account (in his name only) that he has kept from her. So, what does she think? He's preparing to divorce her.

As Kat allows this one (and only one) conclusion to consume her (I mean it is obvious he's divorcing her, right?), she realizes maybe it's time for her to do a little growing up of her own and prepare for the inevitable: being a 40ish newly, divorced mother. To get ready for this new chapter in her life, she agrees to meet with a divorce lawyer and quickly learns she has a lot to do before Griff tells her he wants out. Step one: find money to pay for the lawyer, which also means she needs to get out of debt and start saving money fast!

She reluctantly attends The Penny Pinchers Club meeting with her housekeeper, Libby and meets an unique set of people. All have had financial woes in the past and have managed to overcome them. Now they buy in bulk, dumpster-drive and use coupons whenever possible. As Kat learns to do away with excess, she also learns an important lesson about herself and her marriage.

The Penny Pinchers Club is a great read. Yes, it deals with marital problems and how money can drive two people apart, but it's much more than that. As I continued to read, the more I focused on how things aren't always what they appear. We tend to see what we want to see and come to one (and only one) conclusion based on what is presented to us. It's so obvious, that if we choose to see it any differently, we will be in denial. But, that's not always the case. Sometimes we focus on what we know is right, that we tend to misread the clues.

Here I was looking for a light, fun read (which in a way it is), but was also given something to think about: the obvious isn't necessarily so obvious. I highly recommend this novel. Readers will cheer Kat on as she learns to save money and salvage what's left of her marriage.

Book details:
Series:
ISBN-13: 978-0-525-95117-9
Pages: 288
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Women's Fiction
Date Finished: August 30
Rating: A-

Real Life & Liars by Kristina Riggle

Book Synopsis:
Sometimes you find happiness where, and when, you least expect it.

For Mirabelle Zielinski's children, happiness always seems to be just out of reach. Her polished oldest daughter, Katya, clings to a stale marriage with a workaholic husband and three spoiled children. Her son, Ivan, so creative, is a down-in-the-dumps songwriter with the worst taste in women. And the "baby," impulsive Irina, who lives life on a whim, is now reluctantly pregnant and hitched to a man who is twice her age. On the weekend of their parents' anniversary party, lies will be revealed, hearts will be broken...but love will also be found. And the biggest shock may come from Mirabelle herself, because she has a secret that will change everything.

My thoughts:
I enjoy reading books about family dynamics. Each family member has his/her own role that allows the family to function. In Real Life and Liars, Ms. Riggle explores the depth of family relationships.

The story is told by the four main characters in alternating chapters. There's Mirabelle, the hippie, nonconformist mother; Katya, the oldest, materialistic daughter; Ivan, the insecure, middle son; and Irina, the youngest daughter without a sense of direction. The children come home for a weekend visit to celebrate their parents' wedding anniversary. As each child arrives, with his and her personal problems, Mira is also keeping a secret of her own. She's made her decision about her fate, and now she hopes her family can accept it.

Ms. Riggle did a fantastic job of writing each character and allowing him/her to have his/her own voice. Only Mira's point of view is written in first person and I thought that only added to the richness of the story. Readers will feel compassion for this family when Mira finally shares her secret with her children.

Real Life and Liars is an honest look into what makes a family a family. The Zielinskis are far from perfect. They may not see eye to eye on things, however when it's time to come together, they show up ready to support each other. I liked the uniqueness of each child and how he/she played a significant part to the family dynamic. As I read each scene, I could vividly picture each character in my mind and thought this would make a great movie.

Real Life and Liars is Ms. Riggle's debut novel which I highly recommend. The next time you're at a book store or your local library, pick it up. You won't be disappointed...it's that good!

Recommended for: a reader who is in search of his/her next great read.

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-0-06-170628-8
Pages: 327
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Fiction (Family relations)
Date Finished: August 29
Rating: A

The Widow's Season by Laura Brodie

Book Synopsis:
Sarah McConnell's husband had been dead for three months when she saw him in the grocery store...

What does a woman do when she's thirty-nine, childless, and completely alone for the first time in her life? Does it mean she's crazy to think she sees her late husband beside a display of pumpkins? Or is it just what people do, a natural response to grief that will fade in time? That's what Sarah McConnell's friends told her, that it was natural, would last a season, and then fade away.

But what if there was another answer? What if he was really there? They never found the body, after all. What if he is still here somehow, and about to walk back into her life?

My thoughts:
What would you do if you saw your dead husband while grocery shopping? Would you chase after him demanding answers? Would you silently think you're losing your mind due to your grief? Or would you shake off the image as simply wishing it to be your husband, but knowing it is just a complete stranger?

Having read glowing reviews about The Widow's Season, I was eager to read it. Unfortunately, it fell flat for me. As I read Sarah's story, I realized I didn't feel anything for her...nothing. Here's a story about a woman who recently lost her husband and thinks she sees him and I don't feel any sympathy? Compassion?

The characters in The Widow's Season were hard to connect to. Sarah and her brother-in-law, Nate, seemed to be somewhat aloof. Perhaps it was their reaction to losing David and the events (which I won't share to avoid spoilers) that occurred after his death. Or maybe it was Ms. Brodie's intent to write the characters this way. To be honest, this was the third consecutive book I read dealing with the death of a love one. It's possible I just felt numb after reading two previous tragic stories.

I think The Widow's Season would be an excellent selection for a book club. I figured out the ending pretty early in the book and wondered what other readers thought as the story unfolded. I wanted a chance to speak with other readers about my feelings (or lack thereof) for these characters and hear their thoughts as well. Perhaps speaking with other readers would challenge my opinion about the novel. (If you're interested, the author provides a reader guide that could be used for a book club discussion.)

Despite my disappointment with this novel, I would recommend it to other readers. I enjoyed Ms. Brodie's ability to write in such a way that I could instantly see the scenes in my mind. I plan to read Ms. Brodie's future novels.

Recommended for: book clubs

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-0-425-22765-7
Pages: 303
Year Published: 2009
Genre: Women's Fiction
Date Finished: August 28
Rating: B

Twenty Boy Summer by Sarah Ockler

Book Synopsis:

"Don't worry, Anna. I'll tell her, okay? Just let me think about the best way to do it."
"Okay."
"Promise me? Promise you won't say anything?"
"Don't worry." I laughed. "It's our secret, right?"

According to her best friend Frankie, twenty days in Zanzibar Bay is the perfect opportunity to have a summer fling, and if they meet one boy ever day, there's a pretty good chance Anna will find her first summer romance. Anna lightheartedly agrees to the game, but there's something she hasn't told Frankie---she's already had that kind of romance, and it was with Frankie's older brother, Matt, just before his tragic death one year ago.

Beautifully written and emotionally honest, this is a debut novel that explores what it truly means to love someone and what it means to grieve, and ultimately, how to make the most of every single moment this world has to offer.

My thoughts:
I read great reviews about Ms. Ockler's Twenty Boy Summer. As a result, I had high expectations for this novel. I'm happy to say, it did not disappoint.

It's a year after Matt's death. Anna is joining her best friend and Matt's sister, Frankie, on her family vacation. Frankie wants this to be their Absolute Best Summer Ever (A.B.S.E.) and forms the plan of meeting twenty boys that summer.

Prior to Matt's death, Anna and Matt become more than friends. As they are establishing their new relationship, Matt makes Anna promise not to tell Frankie just yet. He wants to tell her in his own time. Anna agrees to this. Unfortunately Matt dies prior to telling Frankie and Anna is uncertain how to handle her promise to Matt.

Twenty Boy Summer is about the process of grief and how one chooses to handle his/her grief. Frankie and Anna both love Matt in different ways and struggle to continue living with the void Matt has left in their lives. Anna knows Frankie is hurting, but is afraid to show Frankie her grief in order to protect her secret relationship with Matt. It's not until Frankie learns the truth about her brother and Anna, that both girls can openly discuss their loss.

Ms. Ockler did a fantastic job with Anna's friendship with Frankie. Anna is quiet, smart and cautious, while Frankie is out-going, boy crazy and a bit self-centered. Anna is very protective of Frankie as she watched her friend quietly withdraw after Matt's death and emerge as someone she doesn't know. When Frankie discloses to Anna what the loss of Matt has meant to her, Anna begins to see moving forward after someone has died is terrifying as one tries to not forget the person who has died while moving forward is also necessary in order to heal.

Readers will enjoy Twenty Boy Summer. I was immediately hooked and read it in a few hours. Ms. Ockler's debut is an emotional read. One that readers will not forget.

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-0-316-05159-0
Pages: 290
Year Published:2009
Genre: YA Fiction
Date Finished: August 27
Rating: A-

Love You Hate You Miss You by Elizabeth Scott

Book Synopsis:

Get this, I'm supposed to be starting a journal about "my journey." Please. I can see it now: Dear Diary, As I'm set adrift on this crazy sea called "life" . . . I don't think so.

It's been seventy-five days. Amy's sick of her parents suddenly taking an interest in her.

And she's really sick of people asking her about Julia. Julia's gone now, and she doesn't want to talk about it. They wouldn't get it, anyway. They wouldn't understand what it feels like to have your best friend ripped away from you.

They wouldn't understand what it feels like to know it's your fault.

Amy's shrink thinks it would help to start a diary. Instead, Amy starts writing letters to Julia.

But as she writes letter after letter, she begins to realize that the past wasn't as perfect as she thought it was—and the present deserves a chance too.

My thoughts:
Amy is in pain. Emotional, physical and mental anguish. Her best friend, Julia, is dead. Amy believes she is responsible for her death.

Amy is leaving rehab and returning to life she no longer knows. Her parents are more involved in her life, she's in honors classes at school and she's seeing her therapist weekly. Prior to Julia's death, Amy drank. She drank to fit in, drank to feel numb and empty, drank to just be. Now, she doesn't have Julia or a drink to help her cope. She feels all alone, until she meets Patrick.

Actually, Amy met Patrick before, but he has since become a distant memory. Patrick is dealing with his own loss which left him withdrawn and aloof. Both Amy and Patrick are drawn to each other as they continue to move forward with their lives. Each struggles with his/her own loss in a different way.

Amy begins to process the events that occured the night Julia dies. Amy is adamant that she caused Julia's death. It's with the help of Patrick and her therapist that she begins to see the truth about that night and her friendship with Julia. The fog that her grief left behind is slowly lifting and Amy is able to finally able to accept what happened that night: the choices she and Julia made.

Love You Hate You Miss You is about the emptiness, loneliness, guilt and regret one feels after someone has died. You wake up one morning to a life that you no longer know, a life that no longer makes sense. Written in Amy's perspective and her letters to Julia, Love You Hate You Miss You is a compelling read. Ms. Scott writes a touching story bringing together two people who cannot see beyond their hurt and pain.

A quote to share:

"People forget stuff like that, " Patrick said, and in his eyes I could see he knew exactly what I'd been thinking. What I'd just remembered. "Stuff that...something happens that changes your whole life, and people tell you how sorry they are and all that, but then, after a while, it's like you're the only one who remembers. It'll happen to you too. People will forget what happened to Julia. They'll forget her." (p. 107)

Book details:
ISBN-13: 978-0-06-112283-5
Pages: 276
Year Published: 2009
Genre: YA Fiction
Date Finished: August 26
Rating: A-