59

Hidden Prey by John Sandford


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Lucas Davenport never disappoints and this was no exception. Loved the Russian spy element, but would have loved more info on that. No matter, I'm sure I'll read number 16 soon.

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58 -- The Wire in the Blood

The Wire In The Blood by Val McDermid


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Will definitely have to go back to read book 1 and then go on to find more of these. Loved this one. Seriously Sick Shit!

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57 -- The Perfect Family by Carla Cassidy

The Perfect Family by Carla Cassidy


My rating: 2 of 5 stars
I liked this one well enough, but it's not one of my favs. A little creepy.

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56 -- Lake of Sorrows Erin Hart

Lake of Sorrows: A Novel by Erin Hart


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I love to read about Ireland and this book was a surprise. You got a little archeology, some Irish history, a murder mystery and a tiny bit of romance. Good combination.

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55 -- Castaways by Elin Hilderbrand

The Castaways: A Novel by Elin Hilderbrand


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I won this one on a blog giveaway and it was pretty good. There were parts of the book that were cliche and other parts that were truly original. I liked it enough to look for others by this author.

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54 -- The Help

The Help by Kathryn Stockett


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I loved this book and hope lots of folks read it. While I think it shows one small part of the South on the cusp of the Civil Rights movement I think it does show that part very realistically. Hope that this author writes more.

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53 -- Knock Out

KnockOut: An FBI Thriller by Catherine Coulter


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I happen to like Coulter's FBI series and this one was a great installment. Set in the Appalachian Mountain country, involving a cult, a small child and some weird powers, this one is a page turner.

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52 -- The Accidental Vampire

The Accidental Vampire by Lynsay Sands


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I love the premise of this one. Elvi is made into a vampire accidentally. Maybe I missed it in a previous book, but no matter what your age when you become a vamp, you automatically go back to a younger hotter self. Wowza, I think I want to be a vampire.

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51 -- Bite Me if You Can

Bite Me If You Can by Lynsay Sands


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Lucian and Leigh... rogue vampire hunter bar owner. Another great couple and another great story. I love these Argeneau's.

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50-- Swimsuit

Swimsuit by James Patterson


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
much better than the last few Patterson books I've read. would like to see more from him like this one.

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49 -- Finger Lickin Fifteen

Finger Lickin' Fifteen by Janet Evanovich


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I'm never disappointed with Stephanie. Well, maybe I am disappointed that she doesn't do it with Ranger. Man, do I love me some Ranger! Morelli is just okay, Ranger is AWESOME. When is it going to happen? or does she really LOVE Morelli? Whatever... I'm on team Ranger.

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48 -- A Bite to Remember

A Bite to Remember by Lynsay Sands


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I like Vincent and loved Jackie, but most of all, I can't wait to see if Tiny hooks up with Aunt Marguerite!!

And then to see some of those sexy Italian Vamps hook up. This series just makes me happy!


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47 -- 7th Heaven

7th Heaven by James Patterson


My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Another great book in the Women's Murder Club series. I've enjoyed reading about the women solving the murders but I also enjoy reading about the lives of the women. Happy to see Claire's baby born safely and can't wait to see what happens with Lindsey and Joe. Anxious to get my hands on number 8.


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46 -- Tall Dark and Hungry

Tall, Dark & Hungry by Lynsay Sands


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Loving htis series more and more. Bastien and Terri were great together. I have the next 3 lined up to read soon. Can't wait to see what happens with the rest of the family. I really like the explanation for vampires in this series. It's scientific and so it makes more sense.


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45 -- Kiss of the Bees

Kiss of the Bees: A Novel of Suspense by J.A. Jance


My rating: 4 of 5 stars
This is the second in the Diane Ladd trilogy. I read the last book first, then this one...guess I'll need to read the first one last. I'd give it 3 and a half stars it they let me give half stars. I think these books are pretty good even read in the wrong order or as stand alones. Liked it alot. Finished it while in Bama and left it with my mom.


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44 -- Dark Need

Dark Need by Lynn Viehl

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
this is the third in the Darkyn series and in my opinion it's the best of the three. Loved it. Love me some Lucan and can tell that this series is only gonna get better. Have to put the others on my wish list!


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43 --The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic

Confessions of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

My review

rating: 3 of 5 stars
The title of my book is The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic, but my understanding is that they are the same book. Can I just say that at first I really hated this book. I wanted to slap Becca and say, please just stop buying crap. Then I realize that it's a book, a story and that I need to let go and enjoy it for what it was. And I did. I'm not sure that I enjoyed it enough to read others in the series, but maybe I will. Now back to some paranormal I think.


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42 -- Private Demon

Private Demon by Lynn Viehl

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Antiquities expert Jem Shaw has two lives: one during the day, when she catalogs museum artifacts and cares for her crippled, bitter mother; the other during the night, when she works with police to search for crime scene evidence. The only place Jem truly feels alive is in her dreams, where unlike real life she can pretend that she's safe and loved and wanted.

Yet when a demon warrior begins showing up in her mind each night, he draws Jem with him into her most secret, intimate fantasies. Finding the key to solving three brutal assault and murder cases, however, isn't as difficult for Jem as waking up to discover that her dream lover is very real -- as are the killers coming for both of them.

Great paranormal romance. If that's your genre, this is a book for you. 2nd in the Darkyn series.


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41 -- the four corners of the sky

The Four Corners of the Sky: A Novel by Michael Malone

My review

rating: 3 of 5 stars
For the first time since Handling Sin, a riveting novel of love, secrets, and the mysterious bonds of family, from master author Michael Malone.



On her seventh birthday, Annie's conartist father left her behind at his boyhood home, then he raced out of her life. Years later, Annie, now a top Navy jet pilot, returns home on her 26th birthday. But everything changes when Jack calls to say he is dying, and needs her to fly to St. Louis to bring him the airplane he gave her the day he left. And if she does, he will give her the one thing she always wanted, that he always lied to her about the name of her mother.



The Four Corners of the Sky is a novel of love, sacrifice, and the inexplicable bonds that hold families together. Michael Malone brings these rich characters to life as only he can, evoking the unspoken motivations that drive people to define who they are and break out of those bonds when the call of love comes.



My thoughts: This book started out great. For the first half I loved, loved, loved it. Then the plot got just a little too far-fetched. The characters were real 'characters' and the story was very interesting. I'd certainly recommend it. Taking it to my mom to read, then it goes on my signed first editions shelf.


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40 -- The Price of Silence

The Price Of Silence by Kate Wilhelm

My review

rating: 2 of 5 stars
Wasn't real impressed, but this was romantic suspense and not meant to be a really impressive mystery I guess. I figured out the kidnapper early on and wanted to scream at the main characters who couldn't figure it out. It was way too obvious for me to enjoy the rest of the book.


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39 -- Wrong Place Wrong Time

Wrong Place, Wrong Time by Andrea Kane

My review

rating: 3 of 5 stars
What begins as a romantic weekend in a cozy cabin turns into a deadly nightmare when Sally Montgomery's companion Frederick Pierson is murdered. But instead of regarding Sally as a missing victim, the police are after her as their prime suspect.



To evade the authorities and a brutal killer, Sally takes to the woods, relying on her wits and basic survival skills to stay alive. Desperate, she calls Pete Montgomery, her ex-husband and former NYPD detective turned private investigator for help. With Sally's life on the line, Monty recruits their daughter Devon to work the case with him.



Devon has her father's cop instincts. As she probes deeper into her mother's disappearance, the investigation brings her closer to uncovering a dangerous Pierson family 'secret' one that could destroy a family empire and its heir apparent, Blake Pierson. Though powerfully attracted to Blake, Devon isn't sure if he's friend or foe. She does know he'll do anything to protect his family. With Devon's heart and Olympic gold at stake, how far will his family loyalty extend?



Time is running out. Danger is closing in. Can Devon prove Sally's innocence before she becomes the killer's next victim?

My thoughts: Good romantic suspense, not great.


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38 -- TGWSS

The Girl Who Stopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
This was another great book from author Joshilyn Jackson. I won it from a blog contest on Bookin' with Bingo. Great book blog by the way. TGWSS was different from her other two books. It seemed a bit darker. Still there were wonderful characters and a great mystery element. I certainly didn't expect the ending and was a little sad that things happened the way they did. Anxiously awaiting the next book by Mrs. Jackson and will have to console myself with reading her blog, Faster than Kudzu until the next book is published.


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37 -- 6th Target

The 6th Target by James Patterson

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
started and finished while soaking up some rays at the beach. it's been a long time between 5th and 6th so some things were a little lost for me, but altogether it was a good read. just what i needed for the beach something that doesn't take alot of concentration. hope things start looking good for boxer and joe.


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36 -- Kill Me

Kill Me by Stephen White

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Synopsis: What if you could choose when to die?

But once you decide, you can't change your mind. Ever. No matter what.

We've all been there. A loved one or a dear friend becomes desperately ill, or is tragically injured. Maybe an automobile accident, maybe a stroke. Someone – maybe even you – says, "If that ever happens to me, I wish someone would just . . . kill me."

So . . . what if you had a chance to decide, in advance, what level of impairment you were willing to suffer before someone did just that – kill you? And what if you went ahead and hired someone to carry out your instructions? And what if . . .

Well, welcome to Kill Me.

Meet the Death Angels.

It's Alan Gregory's most tantalizing, most provocative, and most controversial case ever. A charming, vivacious man flies into Boulder, walks into Alan's office, and slowly begins to reveal the mess he's in.

The Death Angels are coming. Watch your back.



My thoughts: Oh my, but this was a different sort of thriller. Loved it. Highly recommend it if you like thrillers. It had everything in just the right amounts. Found it very difficult to put it down. I'll definitely be reading more by Mr. White.


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35-- We Are All Welcome Here

We Are All Welcome Here by Elizabeth Berg

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
A short lovely book. This was my first by Elizabeth Berg and I enjoyed it thoroughly. Of the three women in this book, my favorite is Diana. Such a strong, resilient young woman. The author captured the essence of her struggle to be a young woman while still having all the thoughts and dreams of a girl. Diana is the hero of this story, not Paige. Paige is strong, but does she really have a choice? Peacie and LaRue are a cliche, but it's the right cliche for this story. My only complaint is that the book was too short.


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34- One Foot in the Grave

One Foot in the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
synopsis:Half-vampire Cat Crawfield is now Special Agent Cat Crawfield, working for the government to rid the world of the rogue undead. She's still using everything Bones, her sexy and dangerous ex, taught her, but when Cat is targeted for assassination, the only man who can help her is the vampire she left behind.

Being around Bones awakens all her emotions, from the adrenaline rush of slaying vamps side by side to the reckless passion that consumed them. But a price on her head - wanted: dead or half-alive - means her survival depends on teaming up with Bones. And no matter how hard Cat tries to keep things professional between them, she'll find that desire lasts forever ... and Bones won't let her get away again.

My thoughts: this one blew me away. Loved Cat and Bones. Was happy to find out more about Cat's dad and had wondered if Mom was telling the whole truth about her birth. Sex scenes are intense and yummy. Gotta get ahold of the next in this series.


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33- Visions in Death

Visions in Death by J.D. Robb

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Synopsis: Lt. Eve Dallas searches the darkest corners of Manhattan for an elusive killer with a passion for collecting souls.

My thoughts: Another Eve Dallas book, what's not to love. An interesting twist introduced through a psychic. Peabody is targeted and is badly injured. Mavis and Leonardo are getting closer to having that baby. How will it all turn out.


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32 -- Halfway to the Grave

Halfway to the Grave by Jeaniene Frost

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Half-vampire Catherine Crawfield is going after the undead with a vengeance, hoping that one of these deadbeats is her father – the one responsible for ruining her mother's life. Then she's captured by Bones, a vampire bounty hunter, and is forced into an unlikely partnership.

In exchange for help finding her father, Cat agrees to train with the sexy night stalker until her battle reflexes are as sharp as his fangs. She's amazed she doesn't end up as his dinner – are there actually good vampires? Pretty soon Bones will have her convinced that being half-dead doesn't have to be all bad. But before she can enjoy her status as kick-ass demon hunter, Cat and Bones are pursued by a group of killers. Now Cat will have to choose a side ... and Bones is turning out to be as tempting as any man with a heartbeat.

My thoughts: I loved this book and can't wait to read number 2. In fact, I've already started it! I liked the half-vamp Cat, but wanted to strangle her mom. Love me some Bones, sounds like my kind of man (or vampire). Sex scenes were great, could have read more.


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31 -- If Angels Burn

If Angels Burn by Lynn Viehl

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Synopsis

In the depths of human desire, eternity awaits…

She Restores the Light of Hope.

Dr. Alexandra Keller is Chicago's most brilliant reconstructive surgeon.

He Dwells in Shadow.

Michael Cyprien is New Orleans' most reclusive millionaire -- in desperate need of Dr. Keller's skills.

A New Dawn Awaits Them Both…

Beneath the foundation of a mansion in the heart of the Garden District, Alexandra will perform an illegal surgery. Her patient’s disfigurement is beyond medical repair. But his body’s ability to recuperate from his wounds borders on the miraculous.

Alexandra knows Michael Cyprien is no ordinary patient. Intrigued by how his remarkable physiology might benefit medical science, she is even more compelled by his presence -- and the mystery surrounding him and his associates, a cadre of immortals who call themselves the Darkyn…

I really liked this one. It finished up a little bit too quickly, but I'm sure many of the things I'd like to know will be revealed in future books. Looking to read more of this series.


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30 -- Divided in Death

Divided in Death by J.D. Robb

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Synopis:
The year is 2059. It is a future in which technology and humanity collide, and a new computer virus has become the latest form of terrorism.

Reva Ewing, a former member of the Secret Service, a security specialist for Roarke Enterprises, is a prime suspect in a double homicide. She had every reason to want to kill her husband, the renowned artist Blair Bissel. Not only was he having an affair, he was having it with her best friend. But Lieutenant Eve Dallas, who's on the case, believes Reva is innocent. Eve's instincts tell her that the murder scene looks too perfectly staged, the apparent answers too obvious. And when she digs for more, she discovers that at nearly the exact time a kitchen knife was jammed into the victim's ribs, the passcode to his art studio was changed - and all of the data on his computer deliberately corrupted.

To Roarke, it's the computer attack that poses the real threat. Signs show that this is the nightmare his company has secretly been preparing for. He and Reva have been under a code-red government contract to develop a program that would shield against a new breed of hackers, the Doomsday Group. These techno-terrorists with brilliant minds and plenty of financial backing hack into systems, steal data, and corrupt computer units on a large scale and kill anyone who gets too close.

Eve and Roarke must infiltrate an extraordinarily secretive government agency to expose the corruption at its core, before the virus spreads from one office to a corporation to the entire country.

My thoughts:
Another great book in the Eve Dallas series. I really appreciate how much the characters have grown in this book. Peabody, McNabb, Feeney, Mavis and all the others continue to hold my attention as much as Eve and Roarke. Now it's on to the next in the series since I have it handy.


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29 -- Killing Moon

Killing Moon by Rebecca York

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
PI Ross Marshall has a talent for tracking. Local police detective Jack Thornton has found Ross unusually helpful at solving homicide cases gone cold. Thornton can't figure out how Ross gets his info, but he's happy to have his help. Ross knows that his talent is genetic hires BioGen labs to run some tests. Genetiic researcher Megan Sheridan finds him unconscious when she drives to his home to get the blood sample for testing. As she nurses him she finds herself strangely attracted to him. Ross tries to discourage her in order to prevent the heartache he knows his genetics will impose on her.
My thoughts: I liked this tale of the werewolf. It was fast paced and kept me interested. I'm definitely going to put others in this series on my wish list. This is the first in the series and piqued my interest. I liked the characters both Ross and Jack are strong male characters that I'd like to read more about. I'm anxious to find out if Megan can help 'solve' the genetic problems.


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28 -- Down Town

Downtown by Ferrol Sams

finished on May 9, 2009

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
Synopsis

A rollicking tale of a small Southern town by the bestselling author of Run with the Horsemen

With his naturalistic and humorous storytelling style, Ferrol Sams has won fans from all walks of life, especially those drawn to Southern fiction. And while the literary landscape of the rural South is peppered with great storytellers, few are as endearing as James Aloysius "Buster" Holcombe, Jr., the observant narrator of Sams's new novel. From Reconstruction, the first World War, the Depression, and World War II , to racial integration, land speculation, and economic boom, Buster Holcombe recounts the events that have shaped our country since the mid-nineteenth century through the eyes of the wide-ranging denizens of "our town." Down Town offers a panoptic history of the American South, carefully observed and skillfully presented by a native son.
My Thoughts: This book was wonderful. Funny, sad and featuring some very eccentric characters. I love a book that shows off the wacky South. It reminds me of growing up. Ferrol Sams does it great. So does Pat Conroy. You should definitely read this book.


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Contest at Bookin' with Bingo

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Author interview and contest with M.R. Sellars at Amberkatze Book Blog.

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27 Dark Harbor

Dark Harbor by Stuart Woods

finished: May 3, 2009

My review

rating: 3 of 5 stars
Synopsis: Stone Barrington investigates the secrets of a CIA officer's suicide in this next thriller in the bestselling series Stuart Woods's newest bestseller, Dark Harbor, brings us the perfect mix of sexy intrigue and swift suspense that have earned him legions of fans over the years. In this latest thriller, Stone enters the picturesque town Dark Harbor off the coast of Maine, where the shocking deaths of three people have cast a long shadow over this island haven-a locale as mysterious as it is exclusive.

Stone Barrington hasn't heard from his cousin, Dick Stone, in years-though he has fond memories of a teenage summer spent at his house in Maine. Then, Lance Cabot of the CIA interrupts an otherwise pleasant meal at Elaine's with news of Dick's death-apparently by his own hands. It seems that Dick Stone, a quiet family man who doubled as a CIA agent, methodically executed his wife, daughter, and then himself-or did he? What would cause a loving father and husband to murder his family as they slept? Before his death, Dick had appointed Stone executor of his will, giving him full control of the disposition of a sizable family estate. Was Dick preparing for his suicide, or forewarning Stone of his murder?

With the help of his ex-partner, Dino, and his friend Holly Barker, Stone must settle the estate and piece together the elusive facts of his cousin's life and death as a CIA operative. At every step Stone knows he is being watched by Dick's family-and one of them just may be a killer.

This book was alright. I've read a couple of Stone Barrington books, but not all of them. I don't think that was the problem. The writing seemed kind of stilted and simple at the same time. Almost like it was written by a person whose first language wasn't English. Anyway, the story was good, but the writing left a lot to be desired.


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26 -- Motor Mouth

Motor Mouth by Janet Evanovich

finished: April 27, 2009

My review

rating: 3 of 5 stars
Synopsis:It's the last race of the season, and the wheels are smoking and the temperature is rising at Homestead-Miami Speedway.

Alexandra Barnaby is NASCAR driver Sam Hooker's raceday spotter, his eye-in-the-sky, telling Hooker when to pass and when to get off the gas. From her vantage point high above the grandstand she's also seeing things going on in the infield that will change her life. Things that will lead to a stolen racecar hauler, a kidnapped Saint Bernard, a bizarre murder, some restless nights under the covers with Hooker, and a reunion with super cigar roller Rosa Florez and the queen of wholesale fruit Felicia Ibarra.

From Miami, Florida to Concord, North Carolina and back to Miami this is an action-packed multi-car crash of shady dealings, stolen technology, drive-thru windows and destruction of personal property. Everything you always wanted to know about righteous indignation, stealing an eight-wheeler, stashing a dead body, and sex in the fast lane.

My thoughts:I don't like this series as much as the stephanie plum books. It just doesn't work for me. You'd think it would since they are about Nascar and I'm a Southern gal, but they don't. Not nearly as funny. Characters aren't as lovable. And there's no Morelli or Ranger. That's enough to make it not so great!


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3 stars

25--The Host

Author: Stephanie Meyer
finished: April 21, 2009
Synopsis: Melanie Stryder refuses to fade away. The earth has been invaded by a species that take over the minds of their human hosts while leaving their bodies intact, and most of humanity has succumbed.

Wanderer, the invading "soul" who has been given Melanie's body, knew about the challenges of living inside a human: the overwhelming emotions, the too vivid memories. But there was one difficulty Wanderer didn't expect: the former tenant of her body refusing to relinquish possession of her mind.

Melanie fills Wanderer's thoughts with visions of the man Melanie loves-Jared, a human who still lives in hiding. Unable to separate herself from her body's desires, Wanderer yearns for a man she's never met. As outside forces make Wanderer and Melanie unwilling allies, they set off to search for the man they both love.

Featuring what may be the first love triangle involving only two bodies, THE HOST is a riveting and unforgettable novel that will bring a vast new readership to one of the most compelling writers of our time. (from the publisher)

My thoughts: I really didn't like this book. First of all, I loved the premise I just didn't think it lived up to it's potential. I'm not sure why so many people think this is better written than the vampire series. I certainly can't see that it is. It feels alot like a young adult novel rather than an adult novel as advertised. It was mostly a love story and I thought the ending sucked big time. Yep, I said it. I think the ending sucked.

2 stars

24 -- Run for your Life

Author: James Patterson/ Micheal Ledwidge
Finished: April 12, 2009
Synopsis: A calculating killer who calls himself The Teacher is taking on New York City, killing the powerful and the arrogant. His message is clear: remember your manners or suffer the consequences! For some, it seems that the rich are finally getting what they deserve. For New York's elite, it is a call to terror.

Only one man can tackle such a high-profile case: Detective Mike Bennett. The pressure is enough for anyone, but Mike also has to care for his 10 children-all of whom have come down with virulent flu at once!

Discovering a secret pattern in The Teacher's lessons, Detective Bennett realizes he has just hours to save New York from the greatest disaster in its history. From the #1 bestselling author comes RUN FOR YOUR LIFE, the continuation of his newest, electrifying series.

My thoughts: This is more like the Patterson I love. Fast paced and full of suspense. Even though I figured out the 'mystery' before the cops did, I still enjoyed this book. Thank goodness I didn't give up on him. Hope to see more of the Michael Bennett books.

4 stars

23 -- At Risk

Author: Patricia Cornwell
Finished: April 9, 2009
Synopsis: A Massachusetts state investigator is called home from Knoxville, Tennessee, where he is completing a course at the National Forensic Academy. His boss, the district attorney, attractive but hard-charging, is planning to run for governor, and as a showcase she’s planning to use a new crime initiative called At Risk -- its motto: “Any crime, any time.” In particular, she’s been looking for a way to employ cutting-edge DNA technology, and she thinks she’s found the perfect subject in an unsolved twenty-year-old murder -- in Tennessee. If her office solves the case, it ought to make them all look pretty good, right? Her investigator is not so sure -- not sure about anything to do with this woman, really -- but before he can open his mouth, a shocking piece of violence intervenes, an act that shakes up not only both their lives but the lives of everyone around them. It’s not a random event. Is it personal? Is it professional? Whatever it is, the implications are very, very bad indeed . . . and they’re about to get much worse.

Sparks fly, traps spring, twists abound -- this is the master working at the top of her game.

My thoughts: I didn't really like this one at all. It felt like it was too rushed and hurried. It did flow well. I felt like alot was skipped over and you better just hope as a reader that you could infer most of it. Certainly not on the Scarpetta level.

2 stars

22 -- The Quickie

Author: James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge
Finished: April 8, 2009
Synopsis: Lauren Stillwell is not your average damsel in distress. When the NYPD cop discovers her husband leaving a hotel with another woman, she decides to beat him at his own game. But her revenge goes dangerously awry, and she finds her world spiraling into a hell that becomes more terrifying by the hour.
In a further twist of fate, Lauren must take on a job that threatens everything she stands for. Now, she's paralyzed by a deadly secret that could tear her life apart. With her job and marriage on the line, Lauren's desire for retribution becomes a lethal inferno as she fights to save her livelihood--and her life.
Patterson takes us on a twisting roller-coaster ride of thrills in his most gripping book yet. This story of love, lust and dangerous secrets will have listeners' hearts pounding to the very last page.
My Thoughts: Absolutely better than the last book I read by James Patterson, however, a little bit too contrived and neatly tied up at the ending. Still, it was a quick, easy and suspenseful book to read.

2 stars

21 -- Sex Lies and Vampires

Author: Katie MacAlister
finished: April 6, 2009
synopsis: As far as she can tell, Nell Harris is either going insane or she is in love. Nell thought she had been summoned to Prague to work on an inscription in a rare fourteenth-century breastplate. Instead, she is immersed in the world of the Moravian Dark Ones (think vampires) when she is swept up in the search for a boy held captive by the demon lord Asmodeus. Although Nell would like nothing better than to use her powers as a "Charmer" to help find the missing boy, the last time she dabbled in magic the consequences were dire. Then Nell meets Adrian Tomas. Bound to serve Asmodeus and forced to betray his fellow Dark Ones, Adrian desperately needs Nell to charm away his curse. One look into Adrian's haunted eyes, and Nell discovers she will do just about anything to save the soul of her new beloved. The third in Mac-Alister's wickedly sexy and wildly humorous Dark Ones series, this is another wonderfully original, practically perfect paranormal treat.
My thoughts: Another wacky paranormal that was fun and light. Just what I needed.

3 stars

Popin's Lair: Book Giveaway: The Lost Hours by Karen White

Popin's Lair: Book Giveaway: The Lost Hours by Karen White

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20 -- Change of Heart

Author: Jodi Picoult
finished: April 5, 2009
synopsis: Can we save ourselves, or do we rely on others to do it? Is what we believe always the truth?

One moment June Nealon was happily looking forward to years full of laughter and adventure with her family, and the next, she was staring into a future that was as empty as her heart. Now her life is a waiting game. Waiting for time to heal her wounds, waiting for justice. In short, waiting for a miracle to happen.

For Shay Bourne, life holds no more surprises. The world has given him nothing, and he has nothing to offer the world. In a heartbeat, though, something happens that changes everything for him. Now, he has one last chance for salvation, and it lies with June's eleven-year-old daughter, Claire. But between Shay and Claire stretches an ocean of bitter regrets, past crimes, and the rage of a mother who has lost her child.

Would you give up your vengeance against someone you hate if it meant saving someone you love? Would you want your dreams to come true if it meant granting your enemy's dying wish?

Once again, Jodi Picoult mesmerizes and enthralls readers with this story of redemption, justice, and love.

My thoughts: As always with Jodi Picoult's books, it was an emotional read for me. I had always been pro death penalty until several years ago when I read John Grisham's novel The Chamber. That book made me look at the death penalty in a whole new way and this book gave me another look at why I changed my mind. I felt cheated in a way at the end. Not because I didn't like the ending of the book, but because I just wanted more. I wanted to know lots more about Claire's life and Maggie's and Father Michael's and Grace's.

4.5 stars

19 -- You've Been Warned

Author: James Patterson and Howard Roughan
finished: 03/22/09
synopsis: Kristin Burns is making her way in New York City. Her photos are being considered at a major Manhattan gallery, she works by day with two wonderful children, and the man of her dreams is almost hers for keeps. But just as everything she's ever wanted is finally within reach, her life changes forever--with one murderous nightmare. Kristin wakes up every morning from the same chilling, unforgettable dream. And suddenly, it's visiting her during the day too. As her life turns stranger by the minute, Kristin is haunted and terrified. Is it all in her head? Or is the nightmare becoming her life? Kristin searches desperately for what's real through the lens of her camera, only knowing two things for sure: that no place is safe and the fate of everyone she loves lies in her hands.

My thoughts: Okay, it's like this...This book is certainly fast paced. It's classic James Patterson with short, quickly read chapters. However, that's the only thing that is classic James Patterson. The storyline was unbelievable. I love to read far-fetched stories, but this one was just badly done. It has to be the worst James Patterson I've read. I don't recommend it to anyone.

0 stars

18 -- A Wicked Snow

Author: Gregg Olsen
Finished: 3/24/09
Synopsis: Hannah Griffin was a girl when tragedy struck on her family’s farm. She still remembers the flames reflected against the newly fallen snow and the bodies the police dug up - one of them her mother’s. It was the nation’s worst murder scene in decades and the killer was never found.Twenty years later Hannah is a talented CSI investigating a case of child abuse when the past comes hurtling back. Years of buried questions are brought to life. A killer with unfinished business is on the hunt. And an anonymous message turns Hannah’s blood cold: Your Mom called...

My thoughts: I really liked this book alot. It certainly kept my attention. I was a little bit put off by the way it kept the 'tragedy' a mystery for so long, but it really worked to make me want to read more. I will definitely try to find others by Gregg Olsen

4.5 stars

17 --In the Blood

Author: Don Donaldson
finished: 03/21/09
synopsis:

A survivor of leukemia, Dr. Holly Fisher is ready to resume her life. Her first step: to have a child using eggs that were saved before she underwent the fertility-killing cancer treatment. But to her horror, Holly learns that her eggs have been stolen from the fertility clinic, taken by a man posing as her lawyer and armed with her death certificate.

Angry, hurt, and bewildered, Holly vows to track down the person who stole her most precious dream—never realizing that her attempts to make sense out of a mysterious theft will land her in the middle of a scientific and medical nightmare. An ethical horror that will put her and countless others in the path of a man willing to destroy the laws of nature—and anyone who opposes him...

My thoughts: Not one of my favorites. This one was a little bit too predictable and didn't hold my attention.

1 star

Contest at Candieb's Blog

This sounds like a great book.

Go Here to Enter

Challenges update

I've decided to join the Read your Name Challenge using my full name
Michelle.

M -- Memoirs of a Geisha by Arthur Golden (reading)
In the Blood by Don J. Donaldson
Crosscut by Meg Gardiner
H --
Echo Park by Michael Connelly
Last Kiss Goodbye by Rita Herron
Left to Die by Taylor Kincaid
Envy by Sandra Brown

I'll also join the What's in a name-2 Challenge.

"Time of day" Day of the Dead by J. A. Jance

"Relative"

"Profession" The Paperboy by Pete Dexter

"Building" Sleeping at the Starlite Motel by Baily White

"Medical Condition" Left to Die by Taylor Kincaid

"Body Part" The Skin Gods by Robert Montanari

16 -- Close Enough to Kill

Author: Beverly Barton
Finished: 03/15/09
Synopsis:

Close Enough To Touch

He’s their secret admirer, wooing them with phone calls, love letters, and special gifts. From a distance, he admires them. Desires them. Despises them. And when he gets close enough, he kills them all.

Close Enough To Kiss

Adams County, Alabama, is a small, friendly place where everyone knows each other -- but not well enough, it seems, because Sheriff Bernie Granger has a serial killer on her hands, a total psycho who stalks, woos, kidnaps and kills his victims. It’s Bernie’s first big case, a chance for her to prove herself to her new boss, former Memphis police detective Jim Norton, but it won’t be easy. This killer is uncannily smart. It’s as if he knows what Bernie’s thinking. And his next move is more than shocking -- it’s chillingly personal.

Close Enough To Kill

A terrifying game is underway. A desperate hunt has begun. And a rookie sheriff is determined to stop a killer at all costs. But is she getting nearer to catching him or drawing far too close to his deadly flame?

My thoughts: I enjoyed this Romantic Suspense. I was disappointed that I picked out the killer fairly early on, but it was still fun to read. I especially liked that the setting was Northeast Alabama. That's home and all the real places that the author used in this book made me feel like I was a part of it. While the main county and town were fictional the surrounding places were real. There was a tad too much romance and not quite enough suspense, but altogether worth the read.

3 stars

15 -- Day of the Dead

Author: J.A. Jance
Finished: 03/12/09
Synopsis: Young girls are being spirited away from an orphanage deep in Colonial Mexico -- told they're traveling to a loving adoptive family in southern Arizona, their hopes are high. But the fate that waits for them is truly horrifying: when death comes, it will be a blessing....

Former Sheriff Brandon Walker is living the life of a reluctant retiree. Playing golf while his wife, Diana Ladd, continues to write her bestselling tales of true crime, he desperately misses the action and sense of usefulness from days gone by. When he's invited to join the Last Chance Club to review and attempt to solve long-cold cases, he little imagines the first case to cross his path will be one he may have botched back when he was sheriff. And when the case from all those decades past becomes entangled with a current murder, it seems a serial killer with a very long and shocking track record may be back in business....

My thoughts: This was the first book I've read by this author. I'm not sure if it was part of a series, but if it was I don't think it really mattered. I enjoyed the story, the characters and the setting. I think I'll probably read more of this author.

4 stars

Giveaway at Bookin' with Bingo

The Terror by Dan Simmons. Sounds like one I'd love to read, so I'm entering. Why don't you?

Go Here

14 -- Envy

Author: Sandra Brown
Finished: 03/07/09
Synopsis: Book editor Maris Matherly-Reed receives a tantalizing partial manuscript submitted by a writer identified only as P.M.E. Curiosity compels her to track down the author, Parker Evans, and work with him to complete the tale. But as the story unfolds, Maris becomes convinced it is more than just fiction. When someone close to her dies, the presence of evil looms even closer?
My thoughts: I liked this more than I thought I would. Some really good twists and turns although I had figured out most of the plot I still enjoyed the little things that I didn't get right. Worth the read.

3.5 stars

13 -- Death Angel

Author: Linda Howard
Finished: 03/01/2009
My thoughts: This book is what I'd call Romantic Suspense. A beautiful woman is the mistress of a drug dealer. The drug dealer 'gives' her to a hit man for a day as a reward. After the encounter with the hit man she steals $2m from her drug dealer and runs away. He hires the hit man to find her and kill her. The story gets better from here. It's not a believable story, but it's lots of fun to read.

3.5 Stars

12 -- Left to Die

Author: Taylor Kincaid
Finished: 2/22/09
My thoughts: This was pretty good. A mystery/thriller set in San Diego featuring a couple of Private Investigators Jenna Capshaw and Ian McSwain. I don't know if there are other books featuring this duo, but would like to learn more about their personal stories. One a recovering alcoholic, the other with a wife in prison on a drug charge. This has nothing to do with the case that they solve in this book, but was an interesting back story. Late one night a single mom accepts a ride home in the parking lot of a bar. After a stop at a gas station a man comes out of the backseat to force them to a desolate spot on a lonesome road. One woman watches as the other is raped. One woman escapes, but is haunted by the lady that she left behind. Our PI's are hired to find out if the good samaritan was left to die, or if she too escaped. With a few twists and turns, the ending was a surprise to me.

3.5 stars

11-- The Paperboys

Author: Pete Dexter
Finished: 02/17/2009
My thoughts: This book wasn't as good as Paris Trout. Nothing good happened in the book, only depressing, awful things. I can't say that I enjoyed it, but I am glad that I read it.

3 Stars

Challenges update

I've decided to join the Read your Name Challenge using my full name
Michelle.

M --
I --
Crosscut by Meg Gardiner
H --
Echo Park by Michael Connelly
Last Kiss Goodbye by Rita Herron
Left to Die by Taylor Kincaid
Envy by Sandra Brown

I'll also join the What's in a name-2 Challenge.

"Time of day" Day of the Dead by J. A. Jance

"Relative"

"Profession" The Paperboy by Pete Dexter

"Building" Sleeping at the Starlite Motel by Baily White

"Medical Condition" Left to Die by Taylor Kincaid

"Body Part" The Skin Gods by Robert Montanari

Now to decide on books to read to help me complete these challenges.
Check back for updates!