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Powell's Staff:
Five Book Friday: In Memoriam
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Every year, the booksellers at Powell’s submit their Top Fives: their five favorite books that were released in 2023. It’s a list that, when put together, shows just how varied and interesting the book tastes of Powell’s booksellers are. I highly recommend digging into the recommendations — we would never lead you astray — but today...
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Brontez Purnell:
Powell’s Q&A: Brontez Purnell, author of ‘Ten Bridges I’ve Burnt’
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Rachael P.:
Starter Pack: Where to Begin with Ursula K. Le Guin
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Customer Comments
Karen Rush has commented on (44) products
Invisible Life of Ivan Isaenko
by
Scott Stambach
Karen Rush
, August 09, 2016
Seventeen-year-old Ivan Isanko has spent his life inside the Mazyr Hospital for Gravely Ill Children. Born with multiple abnormalities resulting from Chernobyl’s catastrophic radiation release, Ivan was abandoned by his mother at the age of three months. This strange boy has lived his life severely deformed and simple tasks are huge undertakings. Ivan’s strengths are a keen mind, spot-on observations, skillful writing and patience. Here is where we begin Ivan’s personally penned story and his observations involving fellow patients, nursing staff, food, even Director Mikhail Kruk aka the Most Mediocre Man in the World. Capturing humor amidst tragic circumstances can’t be an easy task, but the author nails it. One of the more humorous chapters is “My Therapist” in which Ivan includes the names of not one, but 12 (if I counted right) counselors he’s seen over the years a number of which he has run off by throwing back armchair psychology. This novel has been compared to “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” – I do see similarities, an amusing cast of characters, a sharp sense of humor and a strong narrative viewpoint amidst a tragic backdrop. There was some unpleasant extraneous stuff like Ivan’s masturbation habits but the positive aspects of the novel outweigh the negative.
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Beauty of the End
by
Debbie Howells
Karen Rush
, August 01, 2016
“I was fourteen when I fell in love with a goddess.” What a good story. Ex-lawyer Noah Calaway’s estranged friend Will calls him out of the blue to let him know that Noah’s ex-fiance April has been accused of a brutal murder and lies in a coma, having attempted to kill herself. Noah’s old emotions are reignited; the betrayals of Will and the woman Noah planned to spend the rest of his life with bubble up to the surface. His reawakened feelings draw him into the murder investigation, appointing himself April’s lawyer to prove her innocence. Noah is a protagonist that I sunk my teeth into; the compelling dynamics and suspenseful escalation things that propelled this novel onto my favorites list of 2016. I read it in two days. Disintegration of relationships is framed up in alternate chapters with the present story, as is a narrative by a girl named Ella, providing insightful background to understand driving forces of the present. The stories ultimately come together in a first-rate page-turner.
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Crowded in the Middle of Nowhere: Tales of Humor and Healing from Rural America
by
Bo Brock
Karen Rush
, June 20, 2016
Crowded in the Middle of Nowhere is an often-humorous look into small town America by veterinarian Bo Brock. This is a delightful book by a man with a sense of humor and big heart. Not only did the author excel in schooling and career (graduating magnacumlaude from Texas A&M University and voted equine practitioner of the year for the state of Texas in 2007 and runs a thriving practice), but he excels in this writing debut, a collection of stories of memorable adventures with animals and their owners in rural Texas. He’s got the smarts and the drive surely, but he exposes a down-to-earth nature and dedication. His understanding of the important connection between animals and their people is clear and was ingrained in him at a young age when his beloved pig suffered an awful experience and died. He decided then that he would become a vet so he could “fix things like what had happened to Lucy”. A number of anecdotes made me smile and some moments of loss made me thoughtful of my own pet experiences. I feel fortunate to have had animals in my life and thank goodness for veterinarians like Dr. Brock who commit to their care.
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Where the Water Meets the Sand
by
Tyra Manning
Karen Rush
, June 06, 2016
Dr. Tyra Manning is an accomplished woman. She earned her doctorate in education and became one of the nation’s top school superintendents. Dr. Manning’s website states that her mission in life is to “reduce the stigmas associated with mental illnesses, comfort those who are suffering in silence, and open doors to resources for support and treatment. “ But even an expert in the field is not immune to being overcome with grief, depression and chemical dependency. Her memoir is heartbreaking and her perseverance inspirational. It must have taken a lot of courage to open herself up to the world and write this memoir.
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Before the Fall
by
Noah Hawley
Karen Rush
, June 06, 2016
This 5th novel by award-winning Noah Hawley reads like a screenplay. This is likely no coincidence given that Noah is an accomplished television producer and screenwriter, producing and writing on the TV series Bones as well as the Academy Award winning film Fargo. He is doing what he does best in Before the Fall. Creating rich characters I felt strongly about – good guys I loved and villains I loved to hate. A short-haul corporate jet departing from Martha’s Vineyard crashes with a number of passengers, some there simply by casual invite. Two people survive. One a four-year old boy named JJ, and the other, the man who saved him. Enter the media pit bulls, characters in the industry who are unethical or whose main goal is sensationalism and trying to dig up scandal. Yep, sounds like what we have in our real lives in the 24-hour news cycle of today where our media has lost its dignity in search of higher ratings. Several chapters are dedicated in introducing the passengers, their stories to include perspectives and moments leading up to the fateful flight. Hawley’s characters jump off the page: 56-year old billionaire David Bateman who became rich running a twenty-four hour news network, Gus, the lead investigator at NTSB to analyze and dissect the tragedy, and my favorites - 4-year old JJ who lost his parents and sister on the plane, and Scott, a struggling artist suddenly put into the limelight as a hero.
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Redemption Road A Novel
by
John Hart
Karen Rush
, May 20, 2016
John Hart's writing just keeps getting better. Obsession and justice are the main themes in this thriller. I naturally take the side of the ‘good guys’, and this novel was no exception. I rooted for my favorite characters - suspended detective Elizabeth, a compassionate children’s advocate; 18-year old Channing, a casualty of a vicious crime; and cop Adrian Wall who just came out of a 13-year stint in a notoriously brutal prison. These characters were strong, convincing and complex. I felt their emotions. They stayed true to themselves through this fast-paced plot even though the deck was stacked against them. There is a reason that John is an Edgar Award winner and that his novels have been translated into thirty language, he’s just that good. He writes a very believable tale and I read this page-turner in two days.
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At the Edge of Summer
by
Jessica Brockmole
Karen Rush
, May 20, 2016
I loved Jessica’s first novel, Letters from Skye. It was a remarkable and refreshing read. Well, Jessica did it again, coming up with another stunning and emotional piece of Historical Fiction. This follow-up effort is proof she is no one-trick pony; her writing is magic, drawing me in from the start, reading cover to cover with few breaks. When Luc and Clare meet, it is obvious their relationship will progress but this blossoming relationship, the joys and sorrows of the couple and that of their families and the depth of these characters were such powerful draws. Jessica also incorporates some of what I loved in her first book, gorgeously written letters during the time of war. I absolutely loved this one, a few unpredictable actions impacted me and will have me thinking about them for some time.
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No One Knows
by
J T Ellison
Karen Rush
, March 29, 2016
This is a suspenseful mystery involving a doctor, Josh, who disappeared under mysterious circumstances and presumed dead. His widow Aubrey, the main character, has been grieving for five years when we are introduced to her. The chapters alternate between the time when Josh and Aubrey were together five years ago and current day. I’m not always fond of this approach but the premise worked so well here. Hunting for clues in past and present behaviors was part of what I liked best, the red herrings well placed. Am conflicted by the ending, will have to think about it for a while longer but well worth the read either way. It was a psychological page-turner. Looking forward to hearing what others have to say, as I believe the ending is debatable.
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The Never-Open Desert Diner
by
James Anderson
Karen Rush
, March 29, 2016
Blue collar Ben Jones, the one and only short-haul delivery contractor for FedEx/UPS in a remote Utah desert drives his rig along the dusty isolated roads day after day, becoming familiar with an interesting cast of characters. Quirky, elusive, odd are adjectives that come to mind. I enjoyed the evolving characters and their relationships, especially those that developed into something unexpected. The storyline is simple, some tasks quite ordinary but to me this book’s strength isn’t so much about the mystery, but about the characters, especially the novel’s unlikely hero, Ben. A well-crafted debut by author James Anderson.
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Bryant & May Londons Glory
by
Christopher Fowler
Karen Rush
, March 29, 2016
This is an entertaining book of short stories by Christopher Fowler, author of the popular UK-based, character-driven Bryant & May books, fictional works that include real bits of London history. I enjoyed every one of these stories. A great touch for the author to include a preamble to each storyline, a core idea or event in his life that triggered the scenario. An interesting cast of characters beginning with the main ones, detectives Bryant and May. Author Christopher Fowler created eccentric Bryant and charming May elderly because he was “fed up with the ageism that suggests only the young can carry out their jobs well.” Their very different personalities create some great dialogue. The stories are witty and smartly written.
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A Beginner's Guide to Paradise: 9 Steps to Giving Up Everything
by
Alex Sheshunoff
Karen Rush
, September 08, 2015
Have you ever imagined just throwing up your hands, walking away from your commitments and escaping to an exotic island? The author, Alex Sheshunoff did just that. His journey to find a remote island to call home, carrying with him 100 books was fascinating! Burnt out from trying to make his Internet business successful, Alex walked away from his life, his home, his belongings, his business, his relationship to find an exotic small island in the South Pacific on which to make a fresh start. He breaks down his quest in nine chapters, with titles such as: Make Some Big Choices, Stop Being so Picky and Just Pick a Damn Island, Build a House, Live Pretty Much Happily Ever After. At the beginning of each chapter, Alex starts off with 2 bullet points of “what you can expect to learn in this chapter” - so clever and often laugh out loud funny. Loved this approach and couldn’t wait to dive into the chapter details based on these enjoyable teaser bullets. The chapter contents did not disappoint. His determination to make his new life work and get along peacefully with the natives, learning and adhering to new cultures was compelling and fun to read. It isn’t all fun and games, however, as Alex also gives us a small glimpse of America’s pork projects in the Pacific, the wastefulness is appalling. But don’t let this bit of negativity deter you; this is a great adventure by an excellent writer.
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The Middle of Somewhere
by
Sonja Yoerg
Karen Rush
, September 08, 2015
Liz’s 3-week trek through the John Muir Woods was so vividly depicted that I felt I could actually see the breathtaking terrain of the Sierra. Her journey was supposed to be solo, a move forward toward a new beginning, a way for her to reflect on and heal from traumas in her past and to regain emotional strength. The title “The Middle of Somewhere” can be viewed on this level, with the trail representing her journey. A few weeks before her start date, her boyfriend Dante announced his plan to join her. Good thing he did as his love becomes vital to Liz’s survival. The author was successful in creating a suspenseful adventure that peaks with a harrowing ending. If you enjoyed Wild, pick up this book.
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My Grandmother Asked Me to Tell You She's Sorry: Britt-Marie 1
by
Fredrik Backman
Karen Rush
, July 23, 2015
Elsa is an ‘almost-eight’ year old. Granny is Elsa’s energetic and wildly entertaining seventy-seven year-old grandma and her only friend. She is the kind of grandma anyone would hope to have, a real treasure, or as Elsa would say, a superhero. Bright and articulate Elsa is treated cruelly at school. Her safe haven is with Granny and in the “Land-of-Almost-Awake”, an imaginary land of secret kingdoms that Granny invented in which Elsa could escape to dance, laugh, cry, be brave, etc. Granny started spinning fairy tales when Elsa was years younger and not coping well with her parents’ divorce. Elsa relies heavily on these tales to accomplish her dying Grandma’s directive to “protect the castle, protect her family, protect her friends”. The line between fantasy and reality is often blurred in a wonderfully imaginative way. A smartly-written current-day fairy tale.
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We Never Asked for Wings A Novel
by
Vanessa Diffenbaugh
Karen Rush
, July 16, 2015
In reading the acknowledgements, it was revealed that author Vanessa Diffenbaugh had great difficulty writing this, her second book. Could she match the success of her first, The Language of Flowers? She spent arduous hours writing and researching, almost giving up on this novel that deals with some tough issues. Her hard work paid off. It is a heartrending story of desperation, hope, love and resilience. Vanessa exposes the prejudices of poor Hispanic families who are struggling to make a better life in America in ‘We Never Asked for Wings’. It was an emotional roller coaster ride. I was angry about Letty Espinosa’s bad decisions and risks, even if made out of desperation and love, happy with blossoming relationships and kindnesses, saddened by burdens put on a teenage boy’s shoulders and temptations to do wrong. I felt compassion and admired the resilience of the characters even if I didn’t like them at times. A good choice for book clubs.
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Does This Beach Make Me Look Fat?
by
Lisa Scottoline and Francesca Serritella
Karen Rush
, July 16, 2015
Does This Beach Make Me Look Fat is a great title that made me chuckle, but could it live up to its name? This collection of stories was every bit as clever and witty as I had hoped. It is a mother-daughter satirical memoir, points of view alternating between famed mystery writer Lisa Scottoline’s (sounds like ‘fettuccine" did you know that? I didn’t!) and her 28-year old daughter Francesca. I must have been living under a rock as I had no idea that one of my favorite mystery writers had co-written other works with Francesca such as “Meet Me At Emotional Baggage Claim”, “Have a Nice Guilt Trip”, and “Why My Third Husband Will be a Dog”. Reading this book brought me back to the joy of reading Erma Bombeck columns and books in the late 70's. I often found myself nodding my head, thinking, “hey I’ve been there!” or “I relate to that!” So many funny stories about the small things in life had me laughing out loud. Some bittersweet moments as well, especially the death of their beloved mother/grandmother that brought tears to my eyes. The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree. Francesca is a fresh and first-rate writer. Each of these smart ladies has a storytelling gift and together are a force to be reckoned with.
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An Untamed State
by
Roxane Gay
Karen Rush
, February 07, 2015
What an extraordinary and unforgettable novel. A Haitian-born woman who is visiting her well-to-do family in Haiti is kidnapped and held for ransom. Thus begins Mireille's 13 day brutal cycle of rape and torture. The treatment by her captors and the breaking down of her spirit and body took my breath away.This is not for the faint hearted.
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After the Fog
by
Kathleen Shoop
Karen Rush
, February 07, 2015
This novel is based on a real event. In 1948, a smog settled over a small Pennsylvania mill town of Donora and sickened over 7000 people. The central character, Rose, is a competent nurse, but a very unlikeable character. OK, I get it that life has not been kind to you, Rose. But gee, give those around you a break! Her frustrations and dislikes are glaringly apparent. About mid way thru the book, when Rose shares her 20-year-old secrets with a priest, it becomes clear why she harbors these hateful and resentful feelings. Her torment has given her the drive to become independent, strong and determined to succeed, but at what cost? If only she could be as generous with her own family as she is with her patients. This book started slow for me but then it pulled me in and I was hooked. I grew to really admire Rose, someone who tried to do her best and was devoted to her family. Very well written.
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Children of the Jacaranda Tree
by
Sahar Delijani
Karen Rush
, February 07, 2015
This story grabbed me from the first paragraph. It is set in post-revolutionary Iran, and delves into how the aftermath of the Iran-Iraq war forever changed families' lives. This was a war in which many thousands of people were executed, others spending years living in inhumane prison conditions. The author’s inspiration comes from her own family that was affected by this war, an uncle executed and her parents imprisoned. Those readers looking for a story that is action packed will not find that here. The chapters follow the normal routines of husbands, wives, fathers, sons, and daughters coping to make the best of an awful situation, their stories intertwining. The resilience of these people in such atrocious conditions is stunning. The details contained within will stay with me for a long time.
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Same Sky A Novel
by
Amanda Eyre Ward
Karen Rush
, December 23, 2014
I loved this story. It is one of hope, faith and resilience. The novel’s chapters alternate between the lives of Carla, an 11-year old Honduran girl, and Alice, a 40-year old married woman living in Texas. Carla’s story touched me deeply. A child who is forced to grow up too fast in a dangerous environment, Carla has a fierce determination and a strong faith in God through much suffering. She is wise beyond her years. What she goes through broke my heart, felt real to life and left me with greater compassion for the immigrants trying to make their way to America for a better life. There is also Alice’s story that did not have the same emotional impact on me but it is a significant storyline. She and her husband Jake seem to have it all, successfully running a restaurant that is soon to be highlighted in a national foodie magazine. But, after years of trying to have a child, they have not been able to conceive. They adopt a baby, bring it home for a day, only to have the child’s mother change her mind. Alice and Jake’s relationship begins to fracture. I don’t agree with some of Alice’s choices and self-centeredness, but they are believable behaviors of someone who is exhausted, depressed and extremely emotional. Jake is a prize and I begged Alice to wake up and notice how Jake also needs emotional support. I highly recommend this thought-provoking novel of two people leading very different lives under ‘the same sky”. I believe it will almost certainly leave the reader more appreciative of what they have and hopefully will also make people think twice before complaining about nonsense
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Sleepwalkers Guide to Dancing A Novel
by
Mira Jacob
Karen Rush
, December 09, 2014
An insightful multi-generational family saga spanning from the 1970’s into the 1990’s. When an Indian family moves to America, the children Amina and Akhil open themselves to this new world while their overbearing mother is intent on keeping rooted in established culture and tradition. Brain surgeon father Thomas is working such long hours he seems oblivious to the familial cracks forming. The movement between cultures ebbs and flows. The author articulates the joys, sorrows and challenges of this family very well.
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We Are Not Ourselves
by
Matthew Thomas
Karen Rush
, December 09, 2014
Eileen and Ed both grew up in dysfunctional families. They meet, marry and while Eileen is convinced that Ed is the perfect partner to help achieve her obsessive focus to live the American Dream, Ed has different aspirations. The author captures the early fractures and mounting emotional turmoil brilliantly. Can Eileen’s determination in having a child or move into a ‘better’ neighborhood serve as a magic potion to regenerate their lives? Would familial dysfunctional patterns re-surface in this generation? When a mental illness is formally diagnosed, the impact on the lives of Eileen, Ed and their son Connell is devastating and isolating. About mid-way thru the book though, I became restless, as the story seemed to hit a plateau. I tired of tedious details and became frustrated with Eileen’s actions and inactions. But I stuck with it. The story remained a slow moving read but Matthew Thomas’s writing convincingly captures the courage, determination, strengths and weaknesses of his characters.
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The 13th Gift: A True Story of a Christmas Miracle
by
Joanne Huist Smith
Karen Rush
, December 09, 2014
The 13th Gift: A True Story of a Christmas Miracle is a memoir about a family of 4 trying to cope after the death of their beloved husband/father who died unexpectedly near the Christmas holidays. It is an emotional and personal journey of moving forward with sorrow still fresh and heavy in the heart. While others are in the joyous holiday spirit, author Joanne Smith can’t fathom facing the holiday. She becomes a fragile, low-functioning, emotionally absent mom and the family begins to fall apart. Small gifts of kindness start showing up on their doorstep each day during the ’12 days of Christmas’ with cards simply signed “Your true friends”. These small tokens have a great impact, becoming the unexpected catalyst for the family's healing. The story is proof that the powerful ‘pay it forward’ concept can truly work miracles. It would be a wonderful if each of us could ‘pay it forward’ at least just one time in the holiday season.
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Guests on Earth
by
Lee Smith
Karen Rush
, December 09, 2014
I read this book in preparation for my first trip to Asheville. This is the first novel I have read by Lee Smith and it won't be my last as I really enjoyed it. The novel blends fact with fiction, providing a historical perspective of events leading up to the tragic 1948 fire at the Highland Hospital for 'nervous diseases' in Asheville. The characters are wonderfully constructed and I found the book hard to put down. I have read a few other books about the life of Zelda Fitzgerald and Zelda is a character included here - she is one of Highland Hospital's most famous patients. The novel's perspective when it comes to Zelda is mostly about her life at Highland Hospital but she is not the only central character. The other mostly unknown major characters' stories and personalities are equally fascinating. An added bonus was learning some history about the area. I have added a few of the referenced places to my 'must visit' list while I am in Asheville.
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Children Act
by
Ian McEwan
Karen Rush
, December 09, 2014
What keeps a judge awake at night? In this thought-provoking and intelligent novel, Fiona Maye, a well-respected high court judge in her late 50’s whose work completely consumes her day and night, suddenly finds herself in a personal tailspin after her husband casually drops a bombshell. This life-changing event comes in the midst of a high profile child-welfare case. Can she keep focused and leave her emotions outside the courtroom in order to make a fair and impartial judgment? Getting a peek into her thought process is interesting. Fiona needs to make legal decisions that are contrary to her personal principles and religious beliefs. The banter between prosecution and defense often makes her feel like she is the only adult in the room. But at home, she feels none of that courtroom confidence. After her husband moves out, she feels adrift and struggles to cope. Several high profile child welfare legal cases are referenced in the novel, ones that tugged at my heartstrings, without being sappy. Though fictional accounts, unfortunately these types of cases occur in today’s litigation happy society.
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The Sweetness
by
Sande Boritz Berger
Karen Rush
, November 28, 2014
The Sweetness by Sande Boritz Berger is a novel set during the time of World War II. It covers a parallel tale of two Jewish girls, cousins, living on separate continents, Mira in Brooklyn and Rosha from the Vilna Ghetto of Poland. This is an inspirational story of a Jewish family’s strength and resilience, people who faced their challenges head-on during one of the darkest times in world history. Especially the story of Rosha, a character who faced so many hardships, it seemed all she had to sustain her were her thoughts of happier times, a few photos and the kindness of a candle maker. This is a superb story of upheaval, change, and new beginnings.
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Snowblind
by
Christopher Golden
Karen Rush
, November 03, 2014
it has been ten years since Christopher Golden has written a horror novel. This superb book was well worth the wait. It is an intense and thrilling ghost story. I was hooked from the beginning when the mother of all snowstorms blows into the town of Coventry and wreaks havoc on the community. I felt the chill like I was in the midst of this storm. Cut to 12 years later when residents are still coping in its' aftermath as another storm approaches. Full of mystery and great characters, this novel is a gripping read.
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I Shall Be Near to You
by
Erin Lindsay McCabe
Karen Rush
, November 03, 2014
The main character Rosetta was developed based on the author’s reading of letters written by a real woman who disguised herself as a man and fought in the Civil War. It is fascinating that so many women (believed to be more than 200) could fight side by side with the men, concealing their identities. When her new husband, Jeremiah, sets off to join the Civil War as a Union soldier, Strong-willed Rosetta misses him terribly. She walks away from her family without so much as a goodbye, enlists in the army and joins her husband’s regiment. Rosetta is a memorable and strong character, admirable, but at the same time could be unlikeable and selfish. Knowing her parents have already experienced the loss of sons, she runs off to join the army. She shuns the commander’s wife who treats her kindly, she often puts her husband in harm’s way. Rosetta makes promises to Jeremiah, breaks them, but then turns around and accuses him of breaking promises. Kind and loving Jeremiah loses focus on missions as he tries to keep her safe. Living on the same soil where The Battle of Bull Run played out, the details of the battle were of great personal interest. The distance these soldiers traveled under desperate conditions is incredible
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Book of Strange New Things
by
Michel Faber
Karen Rush
, September 23, 2014
Because it was 10 years in the making, this novel piqued my interest. I don’t normally commit to books with over 500 pages, and so was hoping it would deliver. It did! Not normally a Sci-Fi fan either, I was glued to my chair through most of the book and became interested in its characters early on, even those on the peripheral. The story begins with Peter, a devoted man of faith, who is sent on a mission of a lifetime, one that takes him to a galaxy far away from his wife, Bea. Peter becomes fully invested in his new world but Bea’s world back home is falling apart. The letters being written back and forth between the two were some of the best moments of the story. Their relationship strains, life moves on, they become different people. Can their love and faith endure? I couldn’t wait to discover what happens next in each of their worlds. The supporting characters are included just enough to spice up the story without muddling it. This is a thought-provoking novel and could easily spin off a subsequent novel; am hopeful that it will.
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Life Drawing A Novel
by
Robin Black
Karen Rush
, August 16, 2014
Life Drawing is an emotional story about relationships and loyalty. How easy it is to build a life but also to destroy one. The novel is lyrical, realistically expressing human reaction to life, the ability to shut out and detach from upsetting situations. It is full of flawed human behavior, missteps and the need for constant reassurances. It took me a little while to formulate a review as I spent some time grappling with the ending. Although it was just another example of how an unexpected event can change one’s life, it was deeply affecting. This is a disturbingly honest portrayal of the contradictions of the human heart.
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Art of Arranging Flowers
by
Lynne Branard
Karen Rush
, August 16, 2014
I have always loved flowers but never paid attention to individual significance except for roses on Valentines Day. The first book I read that hooked me on the meaning of flowers was The Language of Flowers. Loved that novel and I wanted more. I recently discovered The Art of Arranging Flowers and dove in. What an engrossing and emotional story. Ruby, a florist, touches the lives of others in the small town of Creekside, Washington with her magical and personal flower arrangements. Ruby is herself in a stage of healing and the caring that the well-crafted supporting characters show her in return makes me want to move immediately to this small town!
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Return to the Beach House: A Beach House Novel
by
Georgia Bockoven
Karen Rush
, August 01, 2014
I had a long leisurely 4th of July weekend ahead of me so wanted a light read, nothing complicated, sad or with too many characters to keep track of. Chose this novel by Georgia Bockoven. It was the perfect summer reading choice as I lay in my hammock at the lake on this beautiful 3-day weekend.
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Cop Town A Novel
by
Karin Slaughter
Karen Rush
, August 01, 2014
This story takes place in the tumultuous 70’s, a time of racism, discrimination, and homophobia. Karin Slaughter realistically paints a picture of the times. Women and black men have only recently been allowed onto the police force, but it is clear that different rules apply; they are not treated fairly. When privileged and attractive Kate Murphy joins the ranks, she faces harsh prejudices head-on. She pairs up with Maggie Lawson, a more seasoned cop who comes from a family line of (male) cops. Maggie is not spared; she has also been battling similar bias by the ‘men in blue’ who believe a woman’s place is in the home or out writing up traffic tickets. When a 5th cop is murdered, Kate and Maggie join forces and begin to investigate covertly from the men. This racially charged thriller takes off from there, it is gritty and at times pulse pounding. A very good mystery!
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Transcriptionist
by
Amy Rowland
Karen Rush
, June 27, 2014
Once upon a time, I worked in a profession that involved transcribing depositions and legal documents so when I saw the title, I just had to read it. While the 4th floor newsroom of a large New York City newspaper is abuzz with activity, our protagonist Lena takes the creaky old elevator up to her lonely space The Recording Room on the 11th floor. Day after day she sits alone transcribing news stories. Her only consistent companion with whom she carries on one-sided conversations is a pigeon who perches outside her window. Hers is a career on the brink of extinction. Words are a huge part of her self, totally absorbing her. Even during sleep ��" her brain doesn’t rest. When Lena comes across a story about a blind woman who entered a zoo’s lions den and was mauled to death, she recognizes the woman as someone who she sat next to on a bus and carried on a brief but memorable conversation just days before. Lena becomes obsessed with the reported details of the case and begins her own quest to find out what really happened to this mysterious woman, challenging the journalistic institution and its principles. Written by a woman who spent a number of years as a transcriptionist at the New York Times, the story is insightful. It is a subtle and steady book and an impressive debut.
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The Art Forger
by
B. A. Shapiro
Karen Rush
, June 08, 2014
The Art Forger is a very good mystery filled with fascinating facts about the art industry. It revolves around reproductions, art forgery and a missing masterpiece. The fictional story is based on a real event - the largest art heist ever in which 13 works of art from masters as Rembrandt, Vermeer and Degas were stolen from the Gardner Museum in Boston. I loved the main character, Claire. She is a talented but struggling artist, who a few years earlier, was shunned by the art world thru no fault of her own. She has an exceptional abilities and expertise in the art of reproduction and I pulled for her as she struggles to get the recognition she deserves. The development of the additional characters was well done - the obsessive collectors, devious painters and art dealers. I appreciate the author’s extensive study in the world of masterpieces.
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Weight of Blood
by
Laura McHugh
Karen Rush
, March 16, 2014
This debut novel takes place in the backwoods of the Ozarks. It was one of those rare books that kept me awake reading late into the night. When Lucy was just a baby, her mother Lila leaves her, under mysterious circumstances. Fast forward 17 years. Triggered by the discovery of a friend’s body, a girl who also had mysteriously disappeared, Lucy makes it her mission to find out more about her mother and also the truth about what happened to her. She is convinced that Lila would not just walk away. In her quest for the truth, Lucy uncovers dark, terrible secrets of those close to her. The story builds suspense along the way, culminating in a very satisfying conclusion.
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How to Bake a Perfect Life
by
Barbara O'Neal
Karen Rush
, March 16, 2014
I really enjoyed this novel about mothers and daughters, loyalty, love and forgiveness. Interspersed are delicious sounding bread recipes that I look forward to trying.
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I Shall Be Near To You
by
Erin Lindsay McCabe
Karen Rush
, January 23, 2014
The main character Rosetta was developed based on the author’s reading of letters written by a real woman who disguised herself as a man and fought in the Civil War. It is fascinating that so many women (believed to be more than 200) could fight side by side with the men, concealing their identities. When her new husband, Jeremiah, sets off to join the Civil War as a Union soldier, Strong-willed Rosetta misses him terribly. She walks away from her family without so much as a goodbye, enlists in the army and joins her husband’s regiment. Rosetta is a memorable and strong character, admirable, but at the same time could be unlikeable and selfish. Knowing her parents have already experienced the loss of sons, she runs off to join the army. She shuns the commander’s wife who treats her kindly, she often puts her husband in harm’s way. Rosetta makes promises to Jeremiah, breaks them, but then turns around and accuses him of breaking promises. Kind and loving Jeremiah loses focus on missions as he tries to keep her safe. Living on the same soil where The Battle of Bull Run played out, the details of the battle were of great personal interest. The distance these soldiers traveled under desperate conditions is incredible.
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Life Is a Wheel
by
Bruce Weber
Karen Rush
, January 23, 2014
The author of this memoir likely knows this country’s nooks and crannies better than most. Bruce Weber took his first cycling trip through America when he was 39 years old. Now, in his 50’s, he decides to do it again. He takes his readers along for the ride on a four thousand mile, three-month, two-wheeled journey. What an adventure! The landscapes he travels, the people he meets, his struggles and accomplishments are inspirational. Similar to the author Bill Bryson, Weber’s years of journalism experience shine through as he travels the nation mile by mile. For the serious ‘gearhead’ readers, he offers technical cycling details, but he doesn’t get bogged down with them. From seasoned cyclists to others who simply want to live precariously through the authors’ experiences, there is something for everyone. Wonderful photos pepper the story.
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Night of the Comet A Novel
by
George Bishop
Karen Rush
, October 09, 2013
A well-crafted and realistic novel encompassing a family’s dreams, obsessions and resilience. The story is told from the perspective of a 14 year old boy named Alan who lives in a Louisiana small town, a bookworm who is on the cusp of meeting his first love. Enter his father, a geeky science teacher who gives Alan a telescope for his birthday. The gift turns out to be one Alan’s dad uses more and who becomes pre-occupied with the approaching Kohoutek comet. So obsessively so, that his familial relationships begin to crumble. Alan could care less about the comet - he is using the telescope to look into the windows of the new neighbors’ house in order to catch glimpses of beautiful Gabriella, a new student at his school. He is obsessed with her every move. Astronomy is interspersed throughout the story. Facts such as those about comets are fascinating to learn.
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Bellman & Black
by
Diane Setterfield
Karen Rush
, October 09, 2013
The second book by author Diane Setterfield, written 7 years after her bestseller The Thirteenth Tale, is a gothic and dark one. It is a clever story; one that starts off slowly but gradually builds with grief and loss along the way. An interesting mystery including giant black rooks/crows and a mysterious man in black, I was expecting more surprises, scares, and spookiness in what is being touted as a ghost story. After finishing the novel and rethinking ‘ghost story’, I believe that aspect may have more to do with main character William Bellman being haunted by his decisions and regrets throughout the novel, beginning with an event early on when as a boy showing off to other boys, throws a stone at a rook, never really meaning to hit it but he meets his mark and the bird dies. This thought haunts him throughout his life.(less)
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Amity & Sorrow
by
Peggy Riley
Karen Rush
, May 15, 2013
Amaranth, the first wife of a Fundamentalist cult leader escapes the compound with her two daughters. The chapters alternate between flashbacks of her protected life within the cult, what made her leave and how she and her daughters Amity & Sorrow adapt to life beyond, one which they are unprepared for in so many ways. The emotional scars are apparent as the three struggle through. A disturbing and intriguing novel. A good book club choice as it would foster alot of conversation.
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Orphan Train
by
Kline, Christina Baker
Karen Rush
, January 30, 2013
An excellent story of two women who grew up as orphans in different eras. The chapters alternate between present day and the 1930's. The elderly 91 year old woman and teen Molly are brought together after troubled Molly has to do 50 hours of community service to avoid being sent to a juvenile detention center. Molly chooses what she thinks is an easy one - clean the 91 year old Vivian's attic. This project enhances the lives of both women in ways they never could have imagined.
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Plum Tree
by
Ellen Marie Wiseman
Karen Rush
, January 01, 2013
Christine and Isaac lived in an ordinary village in Germany. Christine, a very poor German girl, worked for Isaac’s affluent Jewish family. Contrary to Isaac’s family’s wishes and plans for him to find a suitable wife, Isaac and Christine fall deeply in love. The story takes place during the horrific years when Hitler comes into power, and war-time atrocities became a part of everyday life. We see the impact the war has on both families and the insurmountable odds of survival. The husbands, fathers and sons being taken away from their families, Jews being stripped of everything including their dignity, it is unsettling to read. Can their love survive? The resilience of these people is amazing. The book is very well written. I felt the anguish and pain of the characters. I smelled the smoke from the bombs, and heard the sounds of the air raids; it was gripping. Having been to the Holocaust Museum in Washington D.C., vivid representations came back to me. This book will leave a lasting impression.
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Room
by
Emma Donoghue
Karen Rush
, January 12, 2011
I've never read anything quite like this book. Although the subject matter is often heartbreaking, it is so well written. Some moments of this book I find myself thinking about, long after reading the final page.
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