Title: 11 on Top
Classification: Mystery
Author: Janet Evanovich
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Latest Stephanie Plum series novel with the usual hilarious exploits of the lovable but inept bounty hunter and her wacky family and friends.

Title: 1421
Classification: History
Author: Gavin Menzies
Publisher: William Morrow
Copyright: January 2003
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Rewrite the history books! According to this author, fleets from China sailed and charted the entire globe decades before Columbus, De Gama, Magellan and all the rest. Very convincingly written. See what you think.

Title: 1776
Classification: History
Author: David McCullough
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Copyright: May 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Another book on our founding fathers by a master in the genre. It's amazing that we evenutally won the war with all of the disasters suffered during that first year. I knew it had been difficult but had no idea just how bad it really was. I think you'll be surprised. (Check out Carol's review of the same book by clicking here)

Title: 1916
Classification: Fiction
Author: Morgan Llywelyn
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical Fiction. First in a series of books about 20 century struggles for Irish independence. Concerns that lead up to the Easter Rising and the aftermath of its failure. Subsequent books (1921 and 1949) continue the struggle as well as the lives of the main characters. Very good read, even if you aren't Irish.

Title: Abundance: A Novel of Marie Antoinette
Classification: Fiction
Author: Sena Jeter Naslund
Publisher: William Morrow
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical Fiction. At 14 Marie Antoinette is sent to France to marry the 15 year old dauphin in order to establish a political alliance between Austria and France. The book follows her life from that moment to the final unfortunate end. Toinette, as she preferred to be called, is quite a different person from the selfish, uncaring woman history has portrayed. But then, history always is written by the victors. She always is kind, courageous and empathetic, while also often being reckless and astonishingly naive. Beautifully written, the novel is both powerful and heartbreaking. Toinette and her husband, Louis XVI, both are victims of their own personalities - his of a lack of leadership, hers of naivety. The horrendous acts of the mobs are the results.The book brings the people and the times to life in a way you will find fascinating. Don't miss this.

Title: American Gospel
Classification: History
Author: Jon Meacham
Publisher: Random House
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: This is a remarkable and important book, but one which is hard to describe. According to the author, "The point of the book is to explore the role faith has played in the Republic" and "The founding Fathers understood the dangers of mixing religious passions with the ambitions of politics." No, this is not a treatise for or against a particular interpretation of the First Amendment's separation of Church and state. Rather, it travels from the first colonies to the present day revealing through the words and actions of leaders both religious and political, the essential ideas of what it means to be an American. Benjamin Franklin wrote of public versus private religion, private being that of the individual, the home and the church (or other place of
worship). Public religion referred to the innate sense justice, fairness and respect for all human beings. In other words, our public and private faith. These ideas were included in both the Declaration and the Constitution because the Founders believed fervently in the ability of men to govern themselves rather than by others. This was a new concept and one which required that men have the freedoms given to them by providence, regardless of their individual interpretation of that term. The Founders believed that freedom of thought and deed would promote reason and therefore to appropriate choices and decisions in both public government and in private life. Thus our deeply held belief in human rights. The danger of political corruption due to fanaticism of one sort or another was expected to be held in check by the common sense of the more reasonable and larger majority. Through the ages this has proven to be true. Mistakes and omissions can be changed when people have the rights to think, express and act freely. This is a must read book. Its power from extensive research and clearly written examples of the faith of the people of this country and what makes Americans so different from other countries--and we are.

Title: Angels and Demons
Classification: Fiction
Author: Dan Brown
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Almost as good as DVC--some (not I) would say better. This time our intrepid hero is in Rome. My only complaint was with the ending which I couldn't quite buy, but maybe it was just over my head. (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: The Bear and the Dragon
Classification: Fiction
Author: Tom Clancy
Publisher: Penguin Putnam
Copyright: 2000
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Political thriller. Russia and China on a path toward war with each other? Unfortunately, President Jack Ryan can't sit back and watch because you know if it's by Clancy, it's going to be a whole lot more complicated. Extraordinary realism and razor-sharp suspense are expected and you won't be disappointed.

Title: Benjamin Franklin
Classification: Biography
Author: Walter Isaacson
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: A delightful portrait of probably the most interesting of the founding fathers. Inventor, entrepreneur, ambassador, patriot and ladies' man--what more could you want.

Title: Blood of the Prodigal
Classification: Fiction
Author: P.L.Gaus
Publisher: Ohio University Press
Copyright: ?
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Subtitled A Ohio Amish Mystery, this is a worthwhile read not only in terms of being a good mystery but also as a glimpse into the lives and customs of a strictly observant Old Order Amish Community (Ohio, by the way, is home to the largest Amish and Mennonite communities in the world). Bishop Eli Miller has enlisted the help of Professor Michael to find his kidnapped grandson, Jeremiah. Mike is puzzled as to why the bishop has asked an "English" (non Amish) to conduct the search and why the police are not to be involved. With little help from the bishop, the mystery becomes murky and involves murder, greed and treachery, at the same time revealing that a relatively closed community still is vulnerable to many of the same problems found in society at large. Ohioans reading this will find references to numerous familiar Holmes county communities as well as to Port Clinton, Marblehead, Lakeside and the islands of Lake Erie.

Title: Booked to Die
Classification: Fiction
Author: John Dunning
Publisher: Pocket/Simon & Schuster
Copyright: 1992
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Denver homicide detective Cliff Janeway loses his badge after dispensing some questionable justice to Jackie Newton, a sleazy murderer with a talent for avoiding prosecution. This time the murder is of a book scout known to Janeway because of his own passion for collecting rare and first edition books, making the capture a very personal goal. Janeway opens his own bookshop while continuing to search for evidence but soon, volumes of a prized book collection begin to appear along with dead bodies. Suspenseful and well plotted with memorable characters with lots and lots of interesting information about books and the workings of the rare book business.

Title: Cater Street Hangman
Classification: Mystery
Author: Anne Perry
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: First of the Thomas and Charlotte Pitt Victorian mysteries. Well written with great character and plot development. I particularly enjoyed the Victorian setting with all strict (and quirky) rules of "proper" behavior.

Title: Cell
Classification: Mystery
Author: Stephen King
Publisher: Scribner
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller with a little sci-fi (or is it). At 3PM on a sunny afternoon in October afternoon, everyone using a cell phone suddenly goes mad, reverting to the basest form of life - bestiality. The Pulse, as it comes to be known, erases everything else in the brain. People begin killing each other, tearing limb from limb with their teeth. As survivors try to escape to somewhere safe, they begin to notice a herd or flock quality to the phoners who seem able to communicate with one another telepathically. When survivors find that the phoners are using tools and seemingly planning activities, they realize that that the damaged brains are rebooting, just as a computer does.The journey to some sort of safety is fraught with dangerous encounters and near encounters and no real resolutions ever occur. The plot is somewhat intriguing but extremely gory. Typical Stephen King who, by the way, does not own a cell phone.

Title: Consigned to Death
Classification: Mystery
Author: Jane Cleland
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Josie Precott has left New York and opened her own antiques auction house in a small New Hampshire coastal town. She is thrilled with the possible contract for the contents of a huge old house full of beautiful and valuable antiques. But when she goes to sign the final contract, no one answers the door. This turns out to be least of Josies' problems as she learns that the owner is dead -murdered- and Josies' is the last name is his appointment book. The police chief, whom Josie has noticed is a superbly eligible bachelor, considers her the prime suspect, so Josie feels she must somehow solve the crime and maybe, just maybe, even manage to secure the auction contract after all. Then, of course, there's also the attraction to the police chief. All in all, this is a great first novel with interesting characters, well drawn plot and lots of antique description. You'll enjoy it, especially if you like antiques. (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: The Constant Princess
Classification: Fiction
Author: Philippa Gregory
Publisher: Touchstone
Copyright: December 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical fiction. Catherine of Aragon was married to Arthur, crown prince of England for only a few months before he died, but they had made many plans for the future of England. Catherine promises her dying husband that she will marry his brother Harry and achieve the plans she and Arthur had made. Her struggles to become and remain queen of England provide intriguing sights into court life during Henry VIII's reign as well as little known facts into the tragic life of Catherine of Aragon.

Title: Crossing Jordan
Classification: Fiction
Author: Gayle Keeney Canfield
Publisher: Publish America
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: A good first novel (and the first in a series). Main character (and author) tries unsuccessfully to locate information about an important ancestor through traditional genealogical sources. Traveling to New York, she encounters the grandson of Albert Einstein, who offers to send her back in time through his perfected form of his grandfather's time travel machine. Accepting his offer, gayle finds herself in colonial America. This site, however, is a prologue to her reminiscences of the past 45 years which comprise the rest of the book. A it goes along, the story becomes even more compelling as she finds herself the actual ancestor she has been searching. drawn into the plot the reader develops an idea, small at first, but becoming ever more compelling. Could this actually happen? Did it happen? Is this really fiction? Or autobiographical? See what you think?

Title: Dark Tort
Classification: Mystery
Author: Diane Mott Davidson
Publisher: Wm. Morrow/Harper Collins
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Latest in the Goldy Schulz series. Goldy's catering business gets a boost when she is hired to provide special breakfasts and snacks at a prominent law firm. Arriving at 10:30 one evening to prep for the next day's breakfast, she stumbles (literally) over the dead body of her friend and neighbor, Dusty Proutt, who works for the firm s a paralegal. Although Goldy's husband, Investigator Tom Schulz, is on the case, Goldy can't help becoming involved, especially since she's promised the victim's mother that she would. A fairly intricate plot with well drawn characters and luscious recipes makes this a good read. But, after being well-paced, the book suddenly races to it's conclusion in a short period, leaving the reader somewhat disappointed in it's abruptness.

Title: The Da Vinci Code
Classification: Fiction
Author: Dan Brown
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: What can you say about this phenomenal best seller! Controversial, illuminating and thought-provoking. If you haven't read it--go get a copy and get it read before the movie comes out this spring. You know the movie is never as good as the book.

Title: The Devil in White City
Classification: History
Author: Erik Larson
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: The 1893 Chicago World Fair (Exposition) is the setting with parallel plots of America's first known serial killer juxtaposed with the fair. Striking examples of how brilliant minds can choose to use their talents for good or for evil. Horrible acts of depravation occur, but you'll mostly remember all the examples of inventions created for the fair which are now a part of our everyday lives. You'll be amazed. (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: Devil's Corner
Classification: Mystery
Author: Lisa Scottoline
Publisher: Harper Collins
Copyright: December 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller. Lots of suspense in this latest from one of today's major authors. A thriller of the 'stay up until you finish it type'.

Title: The Diamond Hunters
Classification: Fiction
Author: Wilbur Smith
Publisher: St. Martins Press
Copyright: 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: This best selling author has published more than thirty novels with sales of over eighty million copies. Pick up any of his titles and you won't be disappointed. The Vander Byl Diamond Company is in serious straits when patriarch, Jacob, dies. The will, however, is testimony to his passionate hatred of his own children, all of whom have spent their lives unsuccessfully trying to garner the acceptance of their father. Daughter Tracey has sunken into drugs and alcohol, encouraged by her brother, Benedict, who has felt inferior to foster brother, Johnny. For his part, Johnny, estranged from his father for many years, has become his greatest rival. Sounds melodramatic, right? But no, this is just the background for a life and death, non-stop action thriller between the two brothers, filled with greed, murder, passion and betrayal set in the beautiful but dangerous Western Africa with its stifling deserts and unpredictable seas. A truly enjoyable and fast-paced adventure.

Title: The Emancipator’s Wife
Classification: Fiction
Author: Barbara Hambly
Publisher: Bantam Books
Copyright: 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical fiction. A fascinating and intimate portrayal of Lincoln’s wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, whose faults and temper led many to conclude she was insane or, at the very least, impossible to deal with rationally.  Growing up in the wealthy and prominent Todd family, she was used to having everything she could want but still harbored secret anxieties and fears.  She often would strike out at friends and family, being horrified at what she heard herself saying but not able to stop herself.  Marriage to Lincoln did not remedy these outbursts which, along with increased and more severe migraines made her less and less capable of managing her life.  After the deaths of Lincoln and three of their four children, her behavior became so irrational that her remaining son, Robert, had her committed to an institution.  The novel moves back and forth between her time in the institution and earlier parts of her life.  While this style of writing often is a distraction to readers, in this case it serves to explain her character and deepen an understanding of this unique and fascinating woman.  A wonderful read.

Title: Eragon
Classification: Children's
Author: Christopher Paolini
Publisher: Random House
Copyright: 2003
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: If you like fantasy, this is a great book! It's a battle between a boy and the Empire, with a powerful King. This book is exciting and intriguing, a book I would definitely have on my shelf.(Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: Executive Power
Classification: Mystery
Author: Vince Flynn
Publisher: Pocket Books
Copyright: 2003
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Political thriller. Outed undercover agent Mitch Rapp now is on the kill list of terrorists across the globe and has been reassigned as a CIA Advisor. While investigating the ambush of a Navy Seal team, he uncovers a probable leak within the State Department. In addition, powerful Middle Easterners are plotting to ignite a global war to further their evil goals of world domination. Political intrigue on an international level. Great.

Title: Faithful Spy
Classification: Fiction
Author: Alex Berenson
Publisher: Random House
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Political thriller.  John Wells is a CIA operative who has managed to infiltrate al Quida after years of building his cover.  He has met Bin Laden several times but his handler is Omar Khadri, the man in charge of planning and orchestrating attacks on America.  Now John is coming back home for a secret mission, but since Khadri doesn’t fully trust him, no details have been revealed.  The CIA doesn’t trust him either because of his lack of communication with them.  After two vicious attacks are carried out, the CIA has even less trust in John and, forced out of the information loop; he strikes out on his own.  Meanwhile, he still is being tested by Khadri with tasks which begin to reveal parts of the terrorist’s plan.  This will be the big one-“one which will make 9/11 look like a picnic”-involving some kind of biological, chemical or even nuclear weapons-and it is up to John to stop it.  Twists, turns and non-stop action make this a page turner you won’t want to miss. (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: A Fire to Win
Classification: Biography
Author: John Lombardo
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Copyright: 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Unquestionably complicated and controversial, Woody Hayes' stunningly successful coaching career made him a legend. Five national titles, two national coach of the year titles, eight rose bowl appearances, thirteen Big Ten championships, and a lifetime record of 238-72-10 leave no doubt of his talent. This biography takes an honest and sensitive look at his entire life, how he became the man that he was and why he is so revered even today. This should be a must read, even if you aren't a Buckeye Fan.

Title: The First Law
Classification: Fiction
Author: John Lescroart
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller. Tight and suspenseful action. I thought it a good read from another favorite author.

Title: From Sea to Shining Sea
Classification: History
Author: James Alexander Thom
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Chronicles the Lewis and Clark expedition in addition to the Clark family itself. A great epic of John and Ann Rogers Clark and their influence on the ten sons and daughters they raised.

Title: Gettysburg
Classification: Fiction
Author: Newt Gingrich
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Alternative History. What if Lee had won at Gettysburg? This first of a trilogy explores that possibility. Certainly plausible, you don't need to be a Civil War buff to enjoy this one.

Title: Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince
Classification: Children's
Author: J.K. Rowling
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Sixth in the series of extraordinary novels about a young boy at Hogwarts wizard school. Harry is now 16 and has matured accordingly. Filled with the expected seemingly impossible challenges, Harry and his mates of course prevail. As enjoyable as all of the previous novels--a don't miss, for sure. (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: Holy Blood Holy Grail
Classification: History
Author: Michael Baigent, Richard Leigh and Henry Lincoln
Publisher: Bantam Doubleday
Copyright: 1982
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical interpretation. An oldie but currently topical, especially since the authors are currently suing Dan Brown over his Da Vinci Code. A controversial book about Christianity which could shatter our traditional beliefs. One of Dan Brown's main resources and, as such, an important read. Very thought provoking.

Title: The Holy Place
Classification: Religion & Philosophy
Author: Henry Lincoln
Publisher: Arcade/Time Warner
Copyright: 1991
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Subtitled Sauniere and the Decoding of the Mystery of Rennes-le-Chateau, I had thought this might be another book exploring one of the topics found in The Da Vinci Code. It is not and instead concerns natural and man-made phenomena of the area. Filed with charts and graphs which become tiresome after a while, it nevertheless is interesting in its own way.

Title: The Hunt Club
Classification: Mystery
Author: John Lescroart
Publisher: Dutton
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: When the body of a federal judge is found shot to death alongside his equally dead mistress, homicide inspector Devin Juhle assumes it's a simple case of wifely jealousy. Investigation, however, reveals that the judge had many powerful enemies. Meanwhile, Juhle's best friend, private investigator Wyatt Hunt has become enamored with Andrea Parisi, a beautiful lawyer, who is a commentator on Trial TV, and who has ambitions of making the big time in New York. But hunt soon discovers that Andrea also had a connection with the murdered judge and, furthermore, that Juhle considers her the prime suspect. Then Andrea disappears which Juhle feels strengthens his case. Hunt fears she has been kidnapped or even become another victim. As the investigation continues, Juhle is adamant that everything be done by the book and fears Hunt may get in the way and jeopardize his case. Hunt just wants to find Andrea alive. He gathers a loose group of friends and associates -the hunt club- who don't mind bending the rules to achieve their goals. Intricate plotting and superb characterization make this an excellent read.

Title: The Husband
Classification: Mystery
Author: Dean Koontz
Publisher: Bantam Books
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller. Landscaper Mitch Rafferty is in the middle of planting annuals in a client's garden when his cell phone rings. On the other end of the line, a voice says "We have your wife. You can get her back for 2 million - cash." Whomever is calling is unimpressed with the fact that Mitch has no possible way to raise such a sum, saying that he'll find a way - if he loves his wife enough. This intense thriller will keep you in it's grip from the shocking beginning through the labyrinth of plot twists to the astounding conclusion. Dean Koontz at his very best. (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: The Innocent
Classification: Fiction
Author: Posie-Graeme-Evans
Publisher: Atria Books
Copyright: 2002
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical fiction. This first time novelist is somewhat reminiscent of Phillipa Gregory in that the main character is a young woman in the court of England during medieval times. Anne is born in the forests under mysterious circumstances and lives there among the Druids until she is 15. She then becomes a servant in the home of a wealthy London merchant where her knowledge of healing herbs brings her to the attention of the court. After healing the queen she is moved permanently to the palace. Here the main story begins as she and the king find themselves drawn to each other. Lots of the expected court intrigue and a good read although the resolution of the underlying mystery is totally predictable. However the love/lust episodes are far too explicit in my opinion but, if you like the Romance category style, it may not bother you.

Title: In the Bleak Midwinter
Classification: Fiction
Author: Julia Spencer Fleming
Publisher: St. Martins Press
Copyright: 2002
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: A remarkable first novel which won 6 major book awards, due no doubt to the depth of plot and character development. Clare Fergusson, former Army chopper pilot and a woman with a "mind of her own" seems a little odd to the members of the conservative St. Albans Episcopal Church where she has just been assigned. Ideas to improve services to the community are met with resistance and seem to indicate a lack of confidence in the new priest. Then a newborn baby is found on the church steps with a note requesting that he be given to a certain couple in the congregation. Clare finds the congregation solidly behind her in her effort to fulfill this request. But it's not just a simple matter, as Sheriff Russ Van Alstyne informs her. The parents must be identified and other legal matters addressed.In the search for the mother the seemingly peaceful setting of the town is shattered as deceit, betrayal and murder are discovered. Resolution of the several conflicts is found but shock and sadness accompany the truth. Well written with characters you will love, the novel is well worth reading and I look forward to subsequent books in the series.

Title: Jericho Sanction
Classification: Fiction
Author: Oliver North
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Political military thriller. Lots of suspense, high tech action and all that good stuff you expect in this genre.

Title: Jewels of the Sun
Classification: Romance
Author: Nora Roberts
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Really rates about a 2 1/2. First of a trilogy set in Ireland. Kind of a cute though fluffy story. Don't bother with the other two, though. They're almost identical to the first.

Title: John Adams
Classification: Biography
Author: David McCullough
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Another great McCullough book. This one about an opinionated, obnoxious, socially inept man who also was one of the greatest and brightest patriots of the revolution.

Title: Kilbrack
Classification: Fiction
Author: Jamie O'Neill
Publisher: Scribner
Copyright: 1990
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: A strange story about a man who remembers nothing of his life before a serious accident which occurred at age 25. He becomes obsessed with Nancy Valentine, the author of a book called Ill Fares the Land, and decides to visit the setting- Kilbrack. There he finds all the people described in the book, but they all are alive unlike their portrayal in the book. Characters are well drawn and quirky, if not zany, and the writing is enjoyable up to a point. Then it seems the author has a deadline to meet or becomes bored with the story or something. In very short order, all the conflicts are resolved and the story concludes. How disappointing.

Title: Kira-Kira
Classification: Children's
Author: Cynthia Kadohata
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
Copyright: 2004
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Teen-Fiction. This is one of my favorites. It's the story of a Japanese family. It is the life and adventures of two very close sisters. One sister becomes terribly ill, and it's up to the other sister to help her family as her parents work on a minimum wage.

Title: The Ladies Auxiliary
Classification: Fiction
Author: Tova Mirvas
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Life in a tightly knit Orthodox Jewish community in Memphis, Tennessee is disrupted when a recently widowed and newly converted young woman and her daughter move to town. A very interesting window into an almost cloistered setting.

Title: The Last Full Measure
Classification: History
Author: Jeff Shaara
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Last in the trio of Civil War books by Jeff Shaara and his father, Michael. This covers the latter part of the war to its conclusion. Characters and action are vividly portrayed. But do read the other two first.

Title: Master and Commander
Classification: Fiction
Author: Patrick O'Brian
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: A classic in sea-faring books by a master novelist. There are 17 books in this series, all so well done that you can almost smell the salt breeze and hear the flapping of the sails. Truly an enjoyable read.

Title: Memorial Day
Classification: Fiction
Author: Vince Flynn
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller. A really suspenseful thriller with terrorists and nuclear bombs loose in the U.S. Flynn always is good and this one is no exception.

Title: The Mists of Avalon
Classification: Fantasy
Author: Marion Zimmer Bradley
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Ok, this is an oldie, but I did reread it recently, as I do every once in a while. The story concerns the Druids of Ireland and the Christians who are beginning to have influence in the area. Also, this is Arthurian with a twist--it's told from the feminine point of view. One of my all time favorites. You'll love it.

Title: Monkeewrench
Classification: Fiction
Author: P.J. Tracy
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller. First of three about an odd group of computer programmers whose innocent game has sinister unintended consequences. Gory, but good.

Title: My American Journey
Classification: Biography
Author: Colin Powell
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Autobiography. Chronicles his life from childhood to the present. Portrays a much more vibrant personality than you're used to seeing on TV.

Title: My Name is Red
Classification: Fiction
Author: Orhan Pamuk
Publisher: Faber
Copyright: January 2002
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: I include this book to warn you. I hated it! The topics of art and life in pre-renaissance Europe might have been interesting had the gimmicks used been omitted. I mean, come on, chapters narrated by a tree, dog, mirror, etc? I was so annoyed that I didn't care anything aboutthe story.

Title: Night Fall
Classification: Mystery
Author: Nelson Demille
Publisher: Warner Books
Copyright: November 2004
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller concerning filght TWA 800. One of my big, big favorites. Be aware that is begins with a very explicit sex scene which is critical to the plot. Fortunately that's the only such scene. Don't miss this one! (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: One Thousand White Women
Classification: Fiction
Author: Jim Fergus
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Copyright: ?
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical Fiction. In 1854, a major Cheyenne chief proposed a plan to ensure a future between whites and Indians: trade 1000 white brides for his warriors in exchange for 1000 good horses. Since children were raised by the mothers, a generation would be raised with white customs and values while retaining Indian heritage, thus ensuring peace. Predictably, this noble idea was met with horror and disgust and the exchange never happened. In the novel, a group of women do volunteer to be brides and their experiences are followed through journals written by one of the women. An interesting insight into the Indian culture as well as the attitudes of the women, who arrive at the reservation convinced of the superiority of their own culture and disdain for the "savages" and their "heathen" life style. Gradually they learn to understand and even admire much of the culture which, sadly, in today's world, no longer exists.

Title: O'Reilly Factor for Kids
Classification: Children's
Author: Bill O'Reilly
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: For ages 12 and up. Frank but gentle discussions about life for kids. Parents also should read it first to be able to discuss with their children.

Title: The Other Boleyn Girl
Classification: Fiction
Author: Philippa Gregory
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical fiction. Now here's a real favorite. The story of Anne Boleyn's sister who was Henry VIII's mistress before Anne interfered. A spicy and delicious look at court life. Great read! (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: People of the Lakes
Classification: Fiction
Author: Kathleen and Michael Gear
Publisher: Tor
Copyright: 1994
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Prehistoric novel. One of the first North American series by this husband and wife team of archaeologists, this one deals with the people of our area - the Great Lakes. Fascinating, illuminating and throughly enjoyable.

Title: People of the Raven
Classification: Fiction
Author: Kathleen O'Neal and W. Michael Gear
Publisher: Tom Doherty Assoc.
Copyright: 2004
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Historical fiction. Another in the fascinating First North American series. This time the setting is the Pacific Northwest and British Columbia. Recent (1996) discoveries of Kennewick Man and other Caucasoids have sparked great interested in a previously unknown 9000 year old civilization. Archaeologists Kathleen and Michael Gear weave an intriguing tale about the lives and culture of people of that era. Survival during massive environmental change is uppermost, but basic themes of human life including power, war, peace, lust and love are as prevalent in this ancient society as they are in ours today. Another outstanding addition to this remarkable series.

Title: Prior Bad Acts
Classification: Mystery
Author: Tami Hoag
Publisher: Random House
Copyright: March 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Suspenseful with lightning fast action. A bit gory but if that doesn't bother you, it's great. (Click here to check out other reviews for this title)

Title: Saving Graces
Classification: Fiction
Author: Patricia Gaffney
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Tender story about four very different women who, nevertheless, are very special friends. Charming and heartwarming, you may want to have a box of tissues nearby.

Title: Secrets of the Widow's Son
Classification: Social, World & Cultural Studies
Author: David A. Shugarts
Publisher: Sterling
Copyright: 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Really don't know how to categorize this book. Can someone predict the plot and techniques for Dan Brown's new book (Solomon Key) by referring to Da Vinci Code and Angels and Demons? David Shugarts thinks he can. An intriguing read, I can't wait to see how close he comes.

Title: Seven Dials
Classification: Mystery
Author: Anne Perry
Publisher: Random House
Copyright: 2003
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Victorian mystery featuring Thomas and Charlotte Pitt. Thomas is called to the murder of a junior diplomat whose body is found slumped in a wheelbarrow in the garden of an exotic Egyptian woman. The woman, a prominent senior cabinet ministers (said to be her lover), and the murder weapon are all nearby. Thomas is ordered to protect the good name of the cabinet minister while solving the crime, in order to avert an international crisis. Meanwhile, Charlotte (of course) has her own mystery to solve which takes her to the notorious London slum called Seven Dials. Another great installment in the series.

Title: The Templar Legacy
Classification: Fiction
Author: Steve Berry
Publisher: Ballantine
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Thriller. According to historical tradition, the Knights Templar amassed untold treasure and wealth, all of which was lost when the Templars were destroyed by the Inquisition on Friday the thirteenth of October, 1307. Since that time, various groups and individuals have sought to uncover the secrets and find the treasure for themselves, leaving a multitude of clues, guesses and documents--but no answers. Stephanie Nelle, a supervisor in the area of National Security in the Justice Department, has been gathering Templar information and takes vacation time in an effort to crack this centuries old mystery. But others are involved in the same quest and have no qualms in attempting a violent attempt to rob Stephanie of information critical to the project. She calls for help to Cotton Malone, once her top agent, now enjoying life as an antiquarian book dealer in Copenhagen. But, the more involved Malone becomes, the more he realizes that the Templar mystery involves far more than just a search for riches and power. Discovery of the secret and its' publication could be devastating to the civilized world. The answer, while thought provoking, is truly radical and potentially far more controversial than that found in Dan Brown's The DaVinci Code. Don't miss this one!!

Title: The Templar Revelation
Classification: History
Author: Lynne Picket and Clive Prince
Publisher: Simon and Schuster
Copyright: 1998
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: The Da Vinci Code inspired me to read many of the books concerning people and places included in it (DVC). This is another good one which goes a long way toward understanding this shadowy group. Well worth your time.

Title: Thunderstruck
Classification: History
Author: Erik Larson
Publisher: Crown
Copyright: 2006
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: The technique of parallel plots is once again employed by this author (see The Devil in White City in archives). Guglielmo Marconi spent all of his energy and all of his time trying to perfect his invention of the wireless. He, of course, succeeds while alienating his wife and colleagues until his obsession is all that remains. But wait - he's the good guy, isn't he. The other main character is a doctor, described as mild and pleasant who, nevertheless, murders his wife, eviscerates her, buries what's left in the basement then escapes with his secretary. The ensuing search for the fugitives becomes a case of such notoriety that it is surpassed only by the Jack the Ripper murders. The two stories merge toward the end and, of course, Marconi's invention plays a part in the satisfactory conclusions. Dr. Crippen is caught, tried and convicted. Marconi is highly successful and receives all the accolades and place in history that he deserves.

Title: A Time for Freedom
Classification: Children's
Author: Lynne Cheney
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: For ages 9 and up. A timeline of American history for kids. Well done but seemed to have omitted some things I would have included.

Title: The Whitechapel Conspiracy
Classification: Mystery
Author: Anne Perry
Publisher: Ballentine
Copyright: January 2001
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: All the Thomas and Charlotte Pitt mysteries are delightful. Besides being good mysteries, they reveal the customs (and quirks) of Victorian England. If you're new to this series though, read The Cater Street Hangman first since it introduces the characters.

Title: With No One as Witness
Classification: Mystery
Author: Elizabeth George
Publisher: Harper Torch
Copyright: 2005
Book Rating:
Reviewer Comments: Another superb psychological thriller from one of the best authors in the genre featuring familiar characters Detective Superintendent (Sir) Thomas Lynley, his wife Helen (now pregnant), partner Barbara Havers, and others. Thomas is on the case of a serial killer who murders little boys and who becomes more and more personally involved with Thomas. Issues of politics, race, class and forensics plus attention to detail and plot development make this another outstanding read from George. The shocking conclusion will leave you stunned.

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Meet Marilyn

After retiring from teaching (English, Home Ec and ESL) a few years ago, I found that working part-time in a small local bookstore was a nearly ideal situation. It was a warm and friendly atmosphere where I could enjoy talking with and helping our customers find great books. At the same time, I still could follow other interests of family, friends, gardening, obsessing over OSU sports, genealogy, my beloved dog, and, of course, reading. I read many different genres. Some favorites are mystery, thrillers (especially political techno), biography, historical and general fiction. I rarely read sci-fi or romance. I especially like almost anything about Ireland, Renaissance or Victorian settings, Druids, King Arthur, the early Church, etc., etc. This is what I mean when I list a book as historical fiction. I hope you enjoy my selections and would welcome your comments.