Unlocked by Karen Kingsbury

Very good! This book had a great story and it shed a little light on the condition of autism. The author did a great job describing characters so that whatever experience they went through, you did as well.
-Samantha F.

Hit List by Laurell K. Hamilton

Great book! Definitely a step in the right direction for this series. The Anita Blake series had become bogged down in emotion. This book takes Anita back into action. The ending was a little quick but overall I really enjoyed the book.
-Brooke C.

The Particular Sadness of Lemon Cake by Aimee Bender

Strange, but interesting book. The character discovers she can sense people's feelings through the food they've prepared or handled. While this provides a very individual set of teen angst and problems to deal with, it shows an interesting side to all those around her. -Marika K.

Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare

This is acutally a teen book. Maybe that's my maturity level, but I really enjoyed it. I like the teen books because with so many adult books you run into all these gratuitous sex scenes that are just trashy. Anyway, I liked this even better than her Mortal Instruments Series and look forward to the rest of this series. -Marika K.

The Pile of Stuff at the Bottom of the Stairs by Christina Hopkinson

A funny and resonant look at love, marriage, parenthood, keeping up with the Joneses, and finding one's perspective by making a list. I chose to read this book because I recognize Mary in me and in others. Laughing and identifying with her at times and with Joel at others gave me a better perspective on us.

In an attempt to justify rising irritation and to confirm a growing view that her contribution to her marriage has become measurably greater than her annoying, unhelpful husband Joel's, Mary begins a spreadsheet to list his transgressions. Balanced agaist his Positives, which are glimpses of why she loves him, the Infringement list weaves through child care, career, and every room of the house.

As Mary and Joel's life unfolds with their two young boys and a cluttered home which can't measure up to one friend's all-white decor or another's lavish yet eco-friendly house, Mary's list grows lopsided with Joel's infringements. With proof of her unhappiness spelled out, she considers the impact of divorce. Absurdly true to life, this book shines a humorous spotlight on the little moments and reactions to life as it happens. -Micki K.

Every Bitter Thing by Leighton Gage

Although this is the fourth in a series of Mario Silva Investigator novels, it is my first. Murder after murder marks the pages till the end. The team of cops is certain the same modus operandi means one killer, but each murder has a different logical suspect. Brazil's Federal Police work with ease in and out of Brazil, following leads from the seedy streets of prostitutes to the Venezuelan Foreign Minister.

The wry, witty dialogue keeps the reader smiling as the macabre tale unfolds, and the unexpected ending makes the book well worth the read. I will definitely look for the other books in the series. -Micki K.

Delirium by Lauren Oliver

Slow at first, but the later half of the book picks up and becomes more intriguing. Waiting for the next one! -Jennifer L.

Windows 7 for Dummies by Andy Rathbone

Informative- very understandable- I learned how to transfer my pictures from my camera to the computer.

 -Jennifer L.

Heads You Lose by Lisa Lutz and David Hayward

What a killer (no pun intended) concept- an established mystery writer sends off a chapter of a new novel to an ex-boyfriend, asking him to collaborate with her on the novel. She'll take the odd-numbered chapters, him the even. Interspersed in these chapters are emails sent back and forth, along with other comments they make on the other's work, as the two stumble through the writing process.

And while that's amusing enough, the actual novel ends up being a pretty good read. In a small California town, a pot-growing brother and sister team find a headless body in their backyard. They try (a couple of times) to dispose of the body so that they can continue their growing without police interference, and then take it upon themselves to solve this murder (and the others that follow). A very unlikely crime stopping pair, to be sure.

This novel is filled with quirky characters, twists and turns that no one (even 50% of the authors) can see coming. Far more than a catchy hook- Head You Lose is an entertaining crime novel that'll leave you wanting more. -Hobart N.

The Weed that Strings the Hangan's Bag by Alan Bradley

The plucky young chemist with a nascent obsession with death is back in action. The case is a little less personal for Flavia de Luce this time, but that doesn't stop her from jumping in a whole hog to get to the bottom of it.

Flavia runs into a coupole of traveling performers with some car trouble and before you know it, she's got them some help- and a gig. While she hangs around the TV star and his assistant, she finds herself surrounded by some of her town's darker history and then face to face with a murder. And Flavia being Flavia, she can't resist sticking her nose in and making sure all the knots are untangled- particularly the ones adults are ignoring, despite them being painfully obvious to her.

We get less of Flavia's sisters (and the rest of the household, come to think of it) in this installment- but when they're around, thier impact is greater. Clearly, as this series continues, there's going to be some serious drama on the homefront with some major implications for the de Luce family. I hope Bradley tackles that quickly, the forshadowing's getting old quickly.

Ulnike so many other amateur sleuths (particularly juveniles), it's nice to see that her reputation and track record are acknowledged by some in the communtiy- which is both a help and a hindrance, I hope to see more of that in the future.

My only major quibble with this installment is that it takes far too long to set the main action of the novel up; in a 348 page mystery novel, you'd better get to the central crime before page 150 or so. Unless you've got a heroine like Flavia to focus on, I can't imagine being patient enough to wait that long to get the ball rolling.

Another fun (occasionally hilarious) read, with a mystery sasisfyingly twisty, with just enough red herrings to get you through it. Highly recommended if you've read the first in the series. -Hobart N.

Take Three by Karen Kingsbury

Adoption vs. Abortion is a big topic for this unwed teen mother. Also, the struggles with another "good" movie to be made with a big star who is a little on the wild side. The love story between Bailey and Cody continues as well in book three of this series. -Andrea H.

Take Four by Karen Kingsbury

A young teenage girl gets the opportunity to star in a film, playing opposite a big Hollywood star. Her struggles to remain true to her beliefs. Cody is dealing with his mother's drug addiction. He doesn't want that to harm his girlfriend or Bailey's acting career. A decision is made: adoption or abortion, and is finalized. -Andrea H.

Every Breath You Take by Judith McNaught

Great book with fun and instant romance. Ther was a typical twist and betrayal but the ending was surprising and good. Very nice book. -Landen P.

The Pursuit by Johanna Lindsey

I found this book to be fun and light hearted. This author always has a creative way to bring romance and love alive. It was a fast read that I enjoyed very much. -Landen P.

Club Dead (True Blood Series) by Charlaine Harris

This is the 3rd book in the True Blood series, or Sookie Stakehouse novels. It involves vampires who have always been around but are becoming more common since they have come out to the human race. Sookie, who can read minds, has gotten herself deeper into the world of the super natural and must solve another intriguing puzzle at Club Dead. Her partner, Bill (vampire), gets himself into some trouble with Sookie. I really enjoy this series. - Gina C.

Crossroads Bay by Kathleen E. Kovach

I enjoyed this book. I found it fun, even though there were serious times in it. Everyone loves adventure, and everyone enjoys a search for a treasure. But, the author threw in the realities of work, time, money, and family differences. There were times when I didn't want to put the book down. That's how I really judge a book; when I don't want to put it down, I know that I'm hooked and it is good. -Lanor B.

The Trouble with Lacy Brown by Debra Clopton

The book was OK, but I didn't love it. I had a hard time relating to the main character. I have a hard time with the personality, although I know some people are like that. Also, I've read a lot of the books written in the series after this one, and I think they did a better job setting up the scenerio or maybe it is just that the concept was well established by then that it flowed better. Either way, not my favorite.
-Lanor B.

Swallowing Darkness by Laurell K. Hamilton

Good book. Light and fluffy with not a lot of plot. Lots of fabic moments, but I enjoyed it! -Janice M.

The Neighbors are Watching by Debra Ginsberg

The author offers a variety of colorful characters and describes their relationships. This fairly interesting story centers on a troubled pregnant teen. The book is fairly entertaining, but nothing to call up your friend and recomment it. -Shirley W.

Naked in Death by J.D. Robb

A love story that begins with...murder. WHAT? A former thief and a new york city cop find themselves buried in murder plots, and falling over themselves to not want each other. Set in the year 2030. -Pam B.

Antiques Knock-Off by Barbara Allan

What a great read! The bipolar mother/daughter duo are hilarious and so true to life. The to-spot-a-fake-antique was interesting. It was a mystery filled with twists and turns and a surprise ending. -Pam B.

Plainsong by Kent Haruf

I liked this book; it had characters that were all connected in some way or another and showed the beauty in human nature and how good always wins out. The small town characters remind me of growing up in a small town in Oregon. -Cheryl H.

A Royal Duty by Paul Burrell

I was fascinated at the behind-the-scenes look into the royal life this book gave. I was also a little disturbed at how Diana's butler and author, Paul, was so willling to put his employer's needs above his own family. I believe the media gives us a distorted view of most things, including the general story behind the devorce of Charles and Diana.
-Alison H.

Heaven is for Real by Todd Burpo

Many of the ideas in this book coincide with my personal, religious beliefs. It's touching and thought provoking and will hopefully lead a non-believer to realize there is a loving Heavenly Father who loves each of us and He has a perfect son who is truly the Savior of the world.
-Alison H.

Crispin: Cross of Lead by Avi

I picked up this audio book because it was one my boys read for school least year and I wanted to know what they were reading. If it had been a book form I would have had a difficult time putting it down. -Rena G.

Moon Over Manifest by Clare Vanderpool

This book was an absolute pleasure. The 2011 Newbery Award Winner is just that, a winner. The author intricately weaves stories within stories, and the mixture of "newspaper columns"; Miss Sadie's "divinations", and Abilene were brilliant. -Erin K.

Dandelion Fire by N.D. Wilson

I enjoyed this book. I couldn't put it down. Wonderfully imaginative tale. I had to keep reading just to see what would happen next. -Mandy C.

Miss Julia Strikes Back by Ann B. Ross

Elderly Miss Julia and other families and friends' jewelry is stolen. On a trip from local police, Julia and three others go to West Palm Beach, Florida to locate the jewelry. Their side winding humorous adventure keeps you listening and laughing until the thieves are found and then some. This was a great book to listen to. -Carisa B.

In the Country of Men by Hisham Matar

Camu-esque portral of life in Libray under Ghadafu. Shows the impact of a n pooresive state on the developing consciousness of the protagoni during childhood. Sobering to think of how many world citizens have endured regimes/experiences like this. -Dave B.

Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

I read this as a teen but enjoyed re-reading it with my son. I appreciate how Mr. Twain always has Tom come out as a good guy in the end. -Lynne C.

These Tangled Threads by Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller

I enjoyed reading about challenges of life in a textile mill town. It's inspiring how the working girls, Christians away from their families bonded together to make life better for all. -Amanda B.

A Fragile Design by Tracie Peterson and Judith Miller

A very good historical romance. Describes life in a Shaker community and textile mills in early 1800s. Characters are likable and well described. -Amanda B.

Fox Evil by Walters Minette

I did not want to take a break while reading this book!

The realistic and sometimes grim portrayal of peoples lives are intertwined in a small village in Dorset England. This complex story has more than one mystery to ponder. The key characters are an elderly man who wishes to meet his granddaughter who was placed up for adoption 28 years earlier; a caravan of travellers encamped on disputed land; an abused 10 year-old boy with his father, Fox; plus several villagers. Walters carefully unravels the stories of these people, weaving a tantalizing tale of greed, fear, and murder.

I enjoyed this book with its believable characters, that caused me to reflect on good and evil in common people.  Readers of P. D. James or Kate Atkinson will likely enjoy Fox Evil.  (Note: Strong language.) -Beth N.

Ella Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

This is a charming book based on the "Cinderella" story. Ella was curse with a fairy's curse at birth with obedience. She was unable to disobey a direct command. Only the fairy that "bestowed" the gift could reverse it, and she refused. There was one other way to be rid of it, but Ella had to figure that out on her own. To make matters worse her mother had ordered her to tell no one of the curse. So when she and the prince fell in love, she was really in a quandary. -Karyn J.

The Imager by L.E. Modessitt Jr.

Modessitt creates alternate worlds that are divinely complex. In this world there are people that use their minds to create, heal, protect, serve, defend and kill. These "imagers" live apart from the rest of the world while blending seamlessly into it. This novel is intriguing and keeps you on your toes!-Kathaleen W.

Hot Six- A Stephanie Plum Novel

I love this series! You don't want to put this book down, it's funny, fresh and always has attitude. Stephanie si a kick butt bounty hunter and always has amazing adventures. -Amy G.

No Place Like Home by Mary Higgins Clark

Like all Higgins-Clark's books this is an edge of your seat suspense. There are layers and layers of intrigue and keeps you guessing! She's not call the "Queen of Suspense" for nothing! -Kathaleen W.

The Jungle by Clive Cussler

Very good read. Action and suspense throughout. The characters are very believable and dialogue is easy to follow.

Under Wraps by Hannah Jayne

This is a flirty, high-octane mystery! It's full of demons, vampires, dragons, angels and perverted 3' tall trolls. One you get into it--it's really hard to put down. I look forward to delving back into the underworld in the next novel of this series. -Kathaleen W.

The Complete Works of William Shakespeare (Abridged) by the Reduced Shakespeare Company

A twisty-turny take on old, tired Shakespeare. This should be enjoyable to anyone who gets bored with Shakespeare, as well as the most staunch Shakespeare lover. *Be advised the main content of the play is  decent enough for an older child, but much of the commentary is more suitable for adults. -Diana C.

Murder at the Powderhorn Ranch by Jessica Fletcher and Donald Baine

Another fun read based on the TV show, "Murder, She Wrote". In this novel, Jessica travels to Colorado for a visit, but ends up solving yet another murder. It's not particularly enlightening or hard. but it's great for an easy, relaxing evening (Ironically something Ms. Fletcher rarely gets to enjoy).-Diana C.

The Choice by Nicholas Sparks

Wonderful story about finding true love and keeping it. How far would you go to hang on to your true love? this book makes you explore this and more in your own life. -Delaynia W.

Dreams From My Father by Barack Obama

Obama recollects the feelings which followed the passing of his father, the troubles of grassroots community-organization, and racial identity. Feeling somewhat distant from his father who was quite accomplished despite racism, Obama meditates on his roots. He retraces his roots to his father, his grandmother, and his grandfather. the author offers an educated perspective on civil rights, civil liberties, race, and the democratic process. he also shares his experience with loss, adversity, and family. -Camden B.

Wringer by Jerry Spinelli

This was my first experience listening to a recorded book. Getting lots of work done while someone read to me was very enjoyable. The story was sad but very dramatic I found myself looking for extra work to be done so I could finish the story. Palmer fears the days he will become a wringer. In his town people shoot pigeons to raise money for park up-keep. A Wringer finishes off wounded birds. He becomes friends with a pigeon. We learn a lot about pigeons. -Carisa B.

The Spirit Catches You and You Fall Down by Ann Fadiman

Fadiman carefully tracks the interaction between two very different cultures and how even with the best of intentions two groups can misunderstand, talk past each other even where there is respect and openness to the individuals involved. Some important lesson about culture, pride, perspectives, parallel world views, people, love and forgiveness and redemption. -David B.

Clear as the Moon by Christ Stewart

This book moved along at a good pace even though the author uses too much needless dialogue. My favorite thing about this series of books isn't the writing it's how they make you think about the eternal battle between good and evil, hope and despair, civility and chaos. -Alison H.

A Holiday Yarn (Seaside Knitters Mystery)

Fun read! A good, clean who done it. Keeps you guessing, from a town Priest, old lady next door, you will guess to the very end! Loves the small town charm. The characters are lovable people you want to be friends with. Definitely recommend! Even if you don't knit you will love this one! -April H.

A Benevolent Virus by Frances O'Brien

The book followed a few peoples experience with life after "death" and told of the experience and how the experience changed their perspectives on death and the way they lived their lives afterwards. It was an easy read and an interesting thought provoker. -Yolanda S.

The Hero's Son by Amanda Stevens

A typical romance novel with a twist. The story line is weak, but pleasant enough. There's too much up and down emotionally with no real climax. -Diana C.

The Brother's Wife by Amanda Stevens

The second of three books in the Kingsley Baby Trilogy, this book is better than it's predecessor "The Hero's Son". The mystery is deeper and more even-keel. Not a bad read. Diana C.

The Land of Painted Caves by Jean M. Auel

This book, the 6th and final book in the Clan of the Cave Bear series, chronicles the main character. Ayla's transition to becoming a spritual leader and healer within the Zelandonii-ancient people living in France. Jean M. Auel paints vivid pictures of the landscape, people and events and the storyline kept my attention. I did take one star away though for some unnecessary redundancy in the book. -Leslie D.

Doc by Mary Doria Russell

This book has a western sticker but it is more historical fiction with a western setting. The author is wonderful with words-I was hooked from the start. The reader learns about the characters of Doc Holliday, the Earps and Kate, and Townsfolk in Dodge City, good and not-so-good.  There is also a bit of mystery in it. -Karen G.

Caleb's Crossing by Geraldine Brooks

A beautifully written novel with a strong female central character. It is based on slim known facts about the first American Indian to graduate from Harvard. I enjoyed it even more after working on genealogy of ancestors in the early days of our country. -Karen G.