My Dear Hamilton

As I was reading My Dear Hamilton, I couldn't help but think how much of this story was unnecessary to read. In my option I was looking more of what Eliza Hamilton did and thought of her husband Alexander Hamilton. We all know there was adultery. And Alexander Hamilton was over zealous of whatever he did. One common thread was that Hamilton was the true deal for his country. I guess I was looking for what Eliza did more to carry out her husband's dream.

Although this book is fiction I do see the similarities of the government than to the government now. Everything has a price to it. Hamilton did get wrapped up in it sadly that his life was taken by Burr.  

The book did answer some questions that were left hanging. But wished it just got to the point. I actually found it interesting from the authors that there isn't much on Eliza (Elizabeth). Also common that Eliza chose to forgive her husband. Similar to Hilary Clinton to Bill. Also the book leans towards Eliza being the strong sister after all.

With hard work she honored Alexander Hamilton by finding 2 places in New York that supported low income children. Remembering that her husband was from low income and a orphan. As she focused on children, she found that connection to her husband. Also fought to get documents of Alexander's back to eventually write a bio about her husband. True or not it would be natural to see a book about A. Hamilton's life.

I give My Dear Hamilton 4 

I felt that the chapters should of been cut short. Rather than what I did, is skim to the end.

 

The Murder at the Vicarage

What I am noticing about Agatha Christie is that she used her characters to create new stories for new books. And since I read that Miss Marple has a few adventures in her own books I thought I take a look. And I start with her first book The Murder at the Vicarage.

As usual there are many characters in this story and a couple of twists and turns. Someone may not be related to the murder. But have their own legs. The mystery at foot is who killed Colonel Protheroe, and why? I  expected that Miss Marple would be intertwined through the book like Poirot is in his. Little disappointed that she comes up rarely until the end.

Who does everyone go to to ask and tell what's going on? But the local Vicar, Leonard Clement. He and his wife Griselda have the same  kind of interest as everyone else. Maybe because Colonel Protheroe was murdered at his house.

The scenes go back and forth with time. Time is important. In a matter of seconds. Characters (without the side twists) are woven in together. 

Now we have Miss Marple that lays her thoughts about who the killer is. I found that through the story, especially the two policemen have issues with Miss Marple. I imagine they have issues with all women. Of course Miss Marple has an air about her that she knows everything. Not to mention Miss Marple is said to solving mysteries by reading detective novels.  Colonel Melchett and Inspector Slack I believe think that she shouldn't know more than they. Although she may wear on everyone's nerves, it doesn't take long for Len Clement to realize she may be on to something.

I try not figure out who dunit. But you can't help but think you know but then the obvious maybe wrong.

As usual all characters to Miss Marple are suspects. Anne Protheroe, Lettice Protheroe, Mr Hawes, Mrs Martha Price-Ridley, Dr Haydock, Lawrence Redding, Mrs Estelle Lestrange, Bill Archer, Dr Stone, and Gladys Cram, etc... But only several have a hand in killing Colonel Protheroe.

After mystery is solved we find that a few of the twists I didn't see especially with Lettice Protheroe and Len and Griselda Clement that are not so bad. It actually is a happier change.
 

I give The Murder at the Vicarage 4 

just because it wasn't what I hoped for. But for the 1st Miss Marple book, its good!

The Last Time I Saw You

I was a bit disappointed in this book. I guess after reading The Last Mrs. Parrish I expected the same suspense. I remember saying about that book I thought it might be a cliche. All though it wasn't.

Again with this book it was a cliche through and through. I could picture the things that went on like a movie. Or something I read before.

Kate being so anxious of her husband Simon. Is he one to be trusted? Blaire the friend that got pushed away by Kate. But thought she gained a family. Especially in Lily, Kate's mom. A mom too for Blaire? 

The rest of Kate's friends are they who they are for Kate? And then there is Annabella Kate and Simon's daughter. No big deal there.

I really don't know what to say about this book. Nothing really  stood out for me.

 The actions back and forth with Kate was something I thought drawn out. Same with Blaire. 

I was looking to sink my teeth into a mystery and find out who killed Lily. And why other friends of Kate's were involved. Who was this mysterious Daniel. Blaire's husband. We read that Blaire calls him for Christmas. But never hear about him again toward the end.

The ending was abrupt . Interesting but mild. Poor Blaire! At least she gets a visit from her friend and sister Kate

I give The Last Time I Saw You 3 

 

Long Bright River

 

I picked this book to read because I saw an interview done of the author by our local anchorperson. I found out later that she was a teacher from my son's university. So now I'm interested.

Long Bright River was a good story. The author took time to take us through step by step of a story about two sisters and family. Very much the thought of how the main character "Mickey"went through life thinking to take care of her sister around what was given to her from her grandmother.

The chapters of Now and Then explained why Mickey was always looking for her sister "Kacey". How she got involved with the program PAL. And became a cop. How she became a mother.

Mickey talks of her neighborhood, Kensington, Port Richmond, Fishtown. Places are known of drugs. Along with family issues and finding her sister maybe on a corner somewhere strung out. There is a mystery also going on.

Mickey uses what she knows from being a cop to find out who is doing these killings. Hence why she looks for Kacey. What I noticed is that she isn't the best cop I thought. She relied on her partner to carry her through. So when she finds out about the killer on her own, it seems a bit of a bumble. Not sure if this is about the way she grew up. A grandmother tough as nails. Mother that she lost from drugs. And her father gone away from her (presumed dead). Even her extended family (cousins) have a hard time really liking her. I feel Mickey in her own had every good intention to help. But just didn't relay it too well.

There are a few highlights I feel that sums up how I like this story. The Long Bright River as of Kacey's vein. Telling the story of the awful disease of drugs.

I give Long Bright River 4 

The reason. I felt the chapters very drawn out just to tell how Mickey's son Thomas slept. Or how she  couldn't open up to her old partner Truman etc..

I hope to be able to read another book of Liz Moore. Interesting author.

Etched In Shadow Hill Cemetery

Thinking of this story and what made me pick it to read. At first I thought it was a teen book also as some reviewers mentioned. But soon realized no. I like the idea that it was a debut book. Which makes it easier to review. Many folks don't have an option until they read the story.

What brought my eye to it also a mystery of some sorts.

It is very much a coming of age book. But in an old fashioned way.

Here is a girl Justine that spends her summers with her Aunt Peggy and Uncle John. Helps them around the house. As all kids do they put feelers out to see if there is someone and somewhere to have fun, to connect with.

Justine befriends a girl name Eva. All summer long they pal around together Eva introduces Justine around. They have a connection. So sad end of summer comes that Justine goes back home. But something you never hear about much anymore that Justine and Eva write letters to each other. Until they reunite at the beginning of the next summer. 

Sadly something horrible happens to Eva. Eva is too scared to say anything. When Justine finds out she helps Eva. Which later on in Justine's life she gets inspired by the events with Eva and finds a career. Eva helps Justine get her life on track. Find the goodness in things.

Hanging out @ the cemetery, Farrah Fawcett haircuts,  love, break-up, hurt, and learning to make their lives count @ the end. Both girls find how important it is eventually having a husband and children of their own.

The book was a bit lengthy in the writing. Especially of the epilogue. It was nice to see Eva and Justine find happiness but somethings could have been explained earlier. I liked how authors named the chapters after songs. I knew how the characters would respond. A retro feel also.

I'm glad I got to read this book. And I believe like authors have said it is hard to write a great story.

I give Etched In Shadow Hill Cemetery 5 

 

A Thousand Splendid Suns

 

I've never read anything that was written of this author before. I've seen the movie of The Kite Runner. And like a lot of movies it's not the exact activity of the book. But the movie I liked. I decided I was going to read one of his books.

I actually enjoyed this story. Although very sad I seen some parallels of the middle east countries to ours, the United States. And found a lot of differences to make me think it's great to be an American (despite what the country's experiencing now).

How terrible it is to be sent away because of something that wasn't your fault. To grow up as Mariam did to hear not so nice things about her father. To find it's true. Even though Mariam's mother Nana, did call her names the whole situation just isn't right. It hurts! It's like her father Jalil's dirty little secret.

What a shame for Mariam to not be wanted after her mother dies to be married to someone that she doesn't even know.To move from across one part to another part of country. Let alone someone much older than she. Whatever became of Mariam's husband wife and child?

One most think after Rasheed's treatment of Mariam. Trying to please Racheed only not to be good enough.

The book is laid out in parts. I found myself by the third part I skimmed to the end and went back to fill in the gaps. I found it paid a lot of attention to Laila's life and family.

A family that taught Laila that it was important to have education as a woman to be a success. But as the story goes on finding she is normal in a sense with a boyfriend and still maintains her family life. There is tragedy. Where does she go? What happens to her boyfriend, mother, father?

There it begins coming in this household of Mariam and Racheed. She is told everyone is gone. She is nursed back to health only to be the next in line for a younger wife for Racheed. 

Laila lives this life. Does what she has to for Racheed. Unlike Mariam Laila will fight back to protect her children. And for that she finds her boyfriend Tariq.

They do have a life but not without consequences. Nothing goes smoothly without death and hardship. Shame that Mariam finds out this way that she was thought of kindly and loved.

And at the end a nice touch for Laila, Tariq, and family. To give back to the community from hardships.

I give A Thousand Splendid Suns 5 

I look forward to reading another Khaled Hosseni's books.

The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo

In the end I was glad to read this story. But my thoughts were  the same as Daisy and The Six. I like how the author writes a story around a fictional character so well that you have to sit back and ask if she is real.

Was interesting how Evelyn picked her husbands. And what their stories were to fit in Evelyn's life. Some were bad, some were good- a real friend, some were just used for purposes- business like.

Even though Evelyn in her mind were helping others out.  Still it came full circle back to what Evelyn wanted.

Wasted so much time trying to talk her way to believing that she was right. But ended missing the important times of who she really was in love with. Unheard of being who she was.

Again author makes an interview out of story with a twist at end. Why she picked this certain reporter to write her autobiography I noticed has something to do with main character's life. In this case, Evelyn.

It is easy to relate to the subject when Monique spends so much time with Evelyn. Monique eventually sees her own life and makes choices for her own life.

At the end you can see that love to hate relationship Monique started to build around her with Evelyn. Now she knows the truth. Time to move on. That's what Evelyn would want. For she did same thing.

There are some good highlights I will mention on Goodreads. 

I give The Seven Husbands of Evelyn Hugo 4 ---------->

Just the same as authors other books. Thanks for the ride but I think I"ll wait for something different. 

 

A Mother's Day

 

A lovely story on a Mother's Day. I like how the characters are connected by a person, and by a  tragic action. But don't really know each other. Seems like Mother's Day comes into view for each mom and son.

For each character like Julie wanting to spend her time with her son because she knows someday she will have to share him. Sadly they see someone fall. How does she answer that question from her son. She tries to shield him. It all happened like slow motion and I'm sure Asher plays it over in his head.

Julie will use what happened to her mother right before Mother's Day. All can be done is reach out to family and friends. Hug each other. And maybe eat some ice cream. As Julie is there for Asher.

Now Lynne being a new mom she is all kinds of nervous wanting to keep her baby safe. Maybe too over protective. But when Lynne looks at Ben his laugh could light up the darkest day. With Lynne's case she needed to take care of her own self. Finding things that make her feel even.  So when she saw this tragic fall she could only think why isn't anyone helping. But Lynne forgets not everyone can do all things. It only could be that someone called for help. 

I like when the situation was under control that Lynne called her husband Tom, and told him she knew then what she wanted to pursue as a career to help people. An admirable job, in the health profession. 

Then we come to Mary and her son Chris. I think the story of these two is my favorite. Chris did beat all negatives  of having Aspergers. You can only hope some part of a life will help turn things around for the good. Which Chris did. He wanted to be normal. And Mary was going to have that happen. I think the cool part is Chris having this "color synesthesia", a world where he sensed a color based on how a person smelled. We finally find out that Chris knew this person that fell. And like some he was going to be sad.

So what's a mother to do is to be there for her son. To back him up and be as strong for it.  And Chris started talking and thought Austin's color was purple. The feeling was deep enough that Chris thought he should have noticed.

He knew that connection was strong with his mom Mary, for she was a blue. Mom's love

I read a recent book of Kaira Rouda's and liked it. Never had any doubts with this story either. I'll be looking forward to reading more of her books.

I give A Mother's Day 5 

The Last Mrs Parrish

I have several books by this author on my wishlist. But The Last Mrs Parrish is the first I read.
At first when I started reading I thought "this book is going to be a cliche story". It had all the cliches of woman wants other woman's husband. Wants to take over her life. Well! it kinda was like that. But when I read on I seen there was a depth to this characters. It wasn't until close to the second or third part that the story took a turn.

Daphne the  first wife that we know of, I thought ok typical, married a rich man, went to all obligations etc... There was another side to her. She wasn't all that flaky that she didn't know what was going on in her household. And at the end she was the better person for it.

Jackson seemed to be upstanding man. Until reading more of this other side of him. Dark, nasty, and privileged person. I don't know how Daphne put up with it. I would have killed him by that time.

Amber, what can I say about her. She was something alright. She was one, two steps ahead of Jackson. The whole family there for a while. The cliche becomes a victim at the end. Too clever for her own good.

Then there was the kids Tallulah and Bella. Not to forget about Jackson Junior. All little ones who were caught in middle of all the deceitfulness. They are the true victims in all of this. And hope they grow up to be wonderful people.

And having a part in this story worth mentioning is Daphne's mother and father. Although he passed away her father knew Jackson was a bad influence. But you know that we can't say anything to our kids. Im glad to read that Daphne did get to mend fences with her mother.

I have highlights from kindle that stood out for me on Goodreads


I was going to give The Last Mrs Parrish a 3 but as I stated that the story took on its own turn to better the story. For that I give The Last Mrs Parrish 5

Looking forward to reading  another one of Liv Constantine books The Last Time I Saw You

Plantation

Another great  Lowcountry tale from a great author.
I liked the characters in this book. Even though Miss Lavinia was eccentric she wasn't a person that you didn't  messed with. You know that she was the matriarch of the family. It was good that she mended gaps in a relationship with her daughter.

I'm guessing since Caroline had issues with her mother she did what she did. Sadly she married someone, Richard that had issues of his own. The best came out of their marriage was Eric, their child. What a gentleman he grew to be.

It's something about when things are askew in your life coming home is a comfort. And it all is hopes that you find yourself peace and love.
And that's exactly what Caroline did. As much as her home made her better, she too made her family better. Her brother Trip found his way back to Caroline and Eric.

There is always that one family member that we can do without. Talk about gold digging. Frances Mae was star of that role. TG Caroline and Trip took care of that.

Millie, Mr Jenkins, Miss Sweetie, Miss Nancy, even Jack played an important part for Caroline to feel loved and excepted to who she really is.

My favorite part I have to laugh is when Caroline went by a mirror and who she saw looking back is her mother. We all try so hard not to be like our mothers. But we are.
We can either accept it and be a better person for it. Or be miserable all our lives.


I give Plantation 5 

a bit slow in the beginning. But once I found the flow to the story it actually is that heartwarming story you hear of.

Next up I believe it will be Isle of Palms

The Last Days of Cafe Leila

Another to be read book that I finally got around to. It was a pretty good story. On the title alone I thought this was a story about a  Cafe on its last days of closing. But it's so much more. About one country's culture to another, father daughter, father, son, brother to brother, and mother to daughter. And finally husband to wife.

The characters were ok. Noor goes back to her country Iran after having difficulty with her husband and to find where she belongs. She brings her daughter Lily back to where her father has made a place of comfort. Either in food and, or company.

As the story progresses we find out a bit about Noor's family between she being in San Francisco with her husband and daughter, and her family (mother, father, brother, and close relations) in Tehran. How she and her brother ended up in California.
She longed for that family connection of 3 generations in the food world, a homecoming. As she visited her father Zod, and seen how passionate he was about food, making people feel happy. And that happiness Zod had. It was a struggle for she and her daughter Lily.
Of course Lily the brat that she was in the beginning I believe she was the most annoying character in that story. Why is it always the way that children need to be mean to their parents before actually finding they are not so bad.

There is a thread going through the story on pre/ post-revolution Iran. Especially works well on how Noor's mother died. Whatever happened to her. And to give the readers a look on why the people have to do what they had to do. Which Lily refused to want to understand. A family that was torn apart by loss, tragedy and a distance for a person to wonder why did she ever come back when she knew it was nice to stay in San Francisco. Noor does remember with fondness the beauty and customs of how she lived and wanted to pass that on to Lily.

Eventually a story that a reader can get wrapped up into her family and each character does find some solace in what life throws out in Iran. For Noor, Lily, Zod, and Noor's brother. Also Noor and her husband finally come to a calmness.

And for The Last Days of Cafe Lelia, is there? Interesting... 


I give The Last Days of Cafe Lelia 4 

The Other Mrs

Although I figured it out what was going on, (sort of).When I look at the title I think, oh must mean something about an ex wife, or maybe another Mrs, a mistress. As I read on I was a little confused with the chapters of different characters. Until certain things fell in place and yes, then I knew. The character Sadie was complex enough to want to know what else happened. 

The author I believe did a terrific job on the characters. Imogen was very interesting. Dark but understandably why. Mary Kubica had some twist and turns for them all. Made me hate them, and to  say why can't she just say or stick up for herself, I seen myself root for them all the way. Even though  ups and downs were there.

Without giving too much away its very difficult for something to be wrong with a person and not know it. Especially tragic things happening around and to ones self.

Sadly there is no one to count on but your family/friends. And to find out who you can't trust. It's like the whole bottom of your world that got knocked out from under you. You protect yourself in a way you don't realize. As Otto, Tate, and even Imogen thought Sadie went blank in her head. I can see why.

I read the reviews. And I must say for the most part agree. But for some they read so much of one kind of genre. That the seen it/read it makes their reviews jaded. So even though they liked the book I still get the feeling that there will never be a great book. Maybe they should format their review a bit differently. Those kind of review did not help me.

Wouldn't mind reading another book by this author. And I look forward to seeing The Other Mrs on Netflix. And have some highlights that were made from my kindle I will share.

Even though the chapters a bit too long. I still give The Other Mrs 5 

Daisy Jones & The Six

It ended up as a good book. In the beginning, story was a slow starter. I didn't really like the idea of a story being as an interview. I got hung up on who said and did what. Instead of looking at it as a story about the band.

The dynamics of Daisy and Billy were very polarizing but their personalities and what they wanted were the same. 

Karen and Graham meant to be? But in the end looking for something totally different.

For the rest of the band, brothers, managers, etc.. you can tell it was hard for them to follow people to make this great band and babysit too.

It is very easy to feel it is about a real band. Someone said it put them in mind of Fleetwood Mac, which I love. I could picture DJ &The Six that way too. And once I started reading like that it created a kind of groupie life for me.

What was very interesting to find out, who was writing this piece and why. How they fit in with the band. Then the pieces started to fit together. It was great to find out what everyone was up too. And how they handled walking away from that life. What and why did they?

Daisy Jones & The Six had its moments. Was rooting for them throughout. I was annoyed at some of the stuff that was done. But if someone is feeling all these emotions I think it's worth looking into.

I give Daisy Jones & The Six 4 

not because of the story being interviews. But being that the chapters were so long that it made me want to skim the rest of book. Which I did and came back to fill in the blanks. Made it very hard to want to continue. 

I read this book on the chatter that was given. Not disappointed. But am looking into Taylor Jenkins Reid's book Seven Husbands for Evelyn Hugo. Another read with a lot of reviews.

Next Year in Havana

I find this story to be very interesting and informative as well as entertaining. I like how the interactions of Marisol and her grandmother lives intertwined. 

I think I would be like Marisol and go to the country that my grandparents spoke of so well. Especially if I was given a great responsibility of bringing one back home.

There are many questions of Havana the way it was to what it is now. How the citizens of Cuba have looked too and hope for. And what they strive to do today. 

I can see the struggle that Elisa had of Pablo of what he believed, to what she only knew from how she was brought up. Marisol was seeing 1st hand how it came to be that the people who stayed in Cuba believed in a better country with a different person at the top. But also are treated no better.

The story between Elisa, her sisters, and parents with Pablo I enjoyed. Learning history isn't so bad. True there is sadness with their brother etc., joyful times and scary times. Makes all for a good book. Especially a slight twist at the end.

But for Luis he also felt there was something to fight for his country. But for his safety of life I could see why it is important to get him to America.

I really don't know what to say about this book. I read the history in the story and agree with a lot of it. Because I too have lived my history of my ancestors. For Ireland in some ways are the same. But at the end it is not the younger people struggle, but the generations before them.

We the Irish/Americans, Cuba/Americans can do so much with technology today to make it better for the generations to come. To keep the heritage alive without sacrificing integrity of self. For the Cuban citizens resenting the ones who fled to America, sad to know they felt that way. But they built a community to spread through another country for honor. Some of the places that were mentioned Miami, Key West only made me think I was standing maybe in that same spot as Elisa, 90 miles to Cuba. And her son Miguel listening in on a shell, as Bishop Kee welcomed tourist there with his blowing of the conch shell being populaized by his living. Miami dining on the sidewalk in one of the  paladars.

Even though I enjoyed the book. It did lag a big portion of the story. I feel it was hung up on a lot of adjectives of history. That made it for some long chapters that I just wanted to get to the point. And for that I give Next Year in Havana 4 

Some of my memorable parts of the book are my highlights on goodreads.

A Dark Night in Key West

So I was browsing looking at books and came across this series for a steal. I call it a Key West series. So I got it. Than along came this free Novella. It's like a prologue of this series.

Just coming back from a vacation down at the Keys I thought I would try it. And finishing a reading marathon with two books that were intense, I decided to read A Dark Night in Key West.

I like the characters in this novella. Cam Derringer and wife Malinda, Terri and Jim, and their daughter Diane. And who can forget a great character Sunny Ray.

The story started out a bit on the dark side. Something that a kid at the time Cam, should not of seen. But being friends with a schoolmate Susie, Cam thought he was protecting Susie and it ended up in tragedy with Susie's father and her.

Cam swore he would never let death happen again. So he became a lawyer. Partnered with his friend Jim Dade. Jim, his wife Terri and Cam and his wife Melinda became close. Close enough to babysit their daughter Diane.

All were going to see fireworks and Jim and Terri were in accident. But Terri never made it.

Jim took some time off. Cam and Malinda did what they could for Diane and Jim.

Jim needed to get back into the swing of things and came back to work. Cam took a client. And found out this client was no good. And another died on Cam's watch.

Although Diane missed her mother and father terribly. She had Cam and Malinda to lean on. Diane was the daughter that they couldn't have.

Things were going great. I thought Diane went after someone she thought killed her father. But no Diane had a close call which Cam and Sunny Ray came to rescue.

I really am rooting for Cam Derringer and Diane they have had it pretty bad. This time it has hit him personally. Malinda is missing or died. He spent so much money on trying to find her. First becoming a P.I. and giving up law. Than losing his airplane and house. Bought a houseboat. But to keep the search going for Malinda he must take some cases he does not want. Diane looks after him as a psychologist that she became, she always has him in mind.

So that's it. Now to follow next on a Cam Derringer's adventure. 

It was great to see a lot of places mention. It makes me feel like I was back on vacation in the Keys.

I give A Dark Night in Key West 4 

It is a novella after all.

My Lovely Wife

I did like the story. Although there was something about it that I saw or read about before. So I wasn't really that impressed with it. I get it a family, husband and wife, and two kids living in a pretty nice place. But to the unknown what does Millicent and her husband ( who just happens to narrate the story) keep secret, to keep the marriage alive with sparks.

They always seemed to be busy during the day. At night is when Millicent and her husband talked. It was their bedroom routine.

Millicent was a dark character. Claims her sister Holly did all kind of nasty things to her. And she found her soul mate. Millicent and her husband would serial kill together. And their children would be the bond that brought themselves back to earth. The one thing that was understood that they both cared for their children. Or so it seems. Her husband needed to be needed. He took in everything she would give out.

As the story moved along I thought ok these two get along by killing. But as soon as Millicent turned on her husband blamed him for all those murders I knew the story was going to move fast and get to the point. We had the husband trying to figure out what happened to make Millicent turn. Their daughter Jenna was so scared she slept with a knife under her mattress. Their son Rory tried to get a pay day from this.

The knife, the knife that did Millicent in. So much for her.

The last line made me think. He goes back to doing what he would do in bars. Pretend he is deaf. So the story goes, maybe Millicent wasn't just the bad guy in this story. In order to pull off what they did they played off each other. I believe the husband actually needed Millicent more than she did him. Hard to break old habits

I really don't know what to make of this story. I'm hoping that when I go back to review that the highlights will give me something. And I'm thinking it makes a better movie. Not bad for a debut novel though.

For the reason that I'm really a lost for words I give My Lovely Wife 4 

The Nightingale

Its been a long time that a book that I read I can say I really enjoyed. One of the major themes in this book "In love we find out who we want to be; in war we find out who we are". What does the narrator mean by this? I believe the meaning is that we all look for love and when we find it whatever goes on around us that is our world.But as war strikes the people go off to war, the enemy evades your space, as of the Germans they took whatever they wanted with the French and Jewish people. We need to be stronger than we ever had. 

As for Vianne, she did what she had to for her and her daughter. Keep her home so when her husband Antoine came home there would be somewhere they can be. Even if the war did terrible things to people, hurtful, painful. A pain that will change you for the rest of her life. Isabelle, Vianne's sister saw war differently. She fought for the country in her way. Action was her motive, making a difference to the men so they can give France back to the Partisans. The pride what she did also matured her. She knew what she wanted to do. And that was her way of finding love. A love that she needed from sister and father. To be acknowledged that Isabelle was worthful. 

I was surprised at who the narrator was. In the beginning I thought it might of been Isabelle. Since it talked how Isabelle was a screw up. And how she looked for so long that that she was wrathful and loved. But sadly when her mother died her sister and father were at odds with themselves. Isabelle was sort of forgotten and on her own. But at the end of the story you could tell that it was not Isabelle. But Isabelle got the love and recognition that she always wanted, from the people she helped, to her sister Vianne.

The characters had secret identities which gave them the opportunity to move in and out of situations that need be in order to help the cause (French Revolutions) and to be determine who their self is. Example The Nightingale, was appropriate for Isabelle was a beauty with some determination moving along into the night. But Ari and Julien had no choice they needed their names change for their own lives. In hopes that they find/ found peace with their family.

I admire both Vianne and Isabelle. In their own way they both stepped up. Isabelle angry at the Germans how they treated the French and the Jewish people. She decided action was the best and found she was good at rescuing the men who will push the Germans out. Vianne she actually started to get on my nerves. Always about her with Isabelle not giving a chance to believe her sister wouldn't be that flaky. But Vianne stepped up to bring Jewish children to the aid of the orphanage. Although trying to save her friend's child, her hand was forced. But at the end she understood how not worthless Isabelle was. How she and her father were risking their lives.

Isabelle was always told that the place of war was not the job of women. Of course Isabelle challenged that. As Vianne didn't know what to do. If she only opened her eyes sooner and found out that they couldn't trust Germans. I believe much so the roles are different now. Far and in between do you hear long ago that women did their part in war overseas. And here in America again they did their part. But today they are out there in the frontline. Women have proven that they are more valuable, they are grounded and bring a new look to the situation.

Vianne gave a list of people to Beck who was the Nazi that lived there with her in wartime. I could not do what she did. Especially when she did ask questions and his answers weren't adding up. Seemed suspicious. That made me angry that she did not pick up on that.

Captain Beck maybe I believe was a sympathetic character. Only because he was torn between his job and how he felt about the war. I think neither way that he should/not get what he got at the end. Of course Isabelle was going to take action. And Vianne as much as she said about Isabelle she was her sister.

I do think women who come from different places can form a silent bond. They themselves are going through what you might be. And it is to support themselves. Gives each other courage. People should not be judgmental for you do not know what is so different.

Antonie said "We chose to see miracles". I think he wanted to believe his wife. And with war being over that it's time to understand the sadness, the happiness that can be. To me it looked like he knew about Julien and wanted good to be in their lives again. Look to the bright future.

There is really not a right answer when Ari was taken away. I understood how Vianne felt. She raised and protected Ari/Daniel most of is life. And to find that there was family of his was hard to give him up. But on the other hand he needed to be with his family. He needed to be raised in the Jewish faith. For that is who he is. I'm glad that Vianne got to meet Ari and he gave back the photo of she and his mother, Rachel.

I would have made the same decision that Vianne made about Juilen knowing his biological father. There was no need for him to know how mean of a father he did have. And I would hope that he would believe his mother what had happened to her. Sadly what the Nazi's have done killed, violated human beings Julien is better off not knowing and living a better life than what was thrown at the French in WWII

I must say the tear jerker of them all for me was when Isabelle and her father looked at each other and her father mouthed "I love you" to Isabelle as he was shot. After that Isabelle knew the Nazi's couldn't touch her heart. They couldn't change who she was inside.

I thought the story gave  more a better understanding of life under Nazi occupation in WWII. I feel why especially the Jewish people are hard. And don't have a give it up attitude.

I give The Nightingale 5 

News of the World

I don't know why but I had mix feelings about this book. I did like the story but I didn't. Nice story about an older soldier that helped a little girl out who was captured by the Kiowas.
I believe that relationship came about with Jefferson Kidd being like a grandfather (Kontah) to Johanna because Jefferson was a father himself. He protected his children. Why make matters worse. Not everyone wanted war
It's pretty neat that he traveled from town to town with newspapers to read aloud the news of the day from around the world even. As a retired soldier he did this for the people for 10 cents. From the beginning, he would think how great it was to travel with a message from one unit to another. He had responsibilities to get that message across. No wonder he went in the printing business after that. It takes dedication to get news out so the town will know what's going on in the world. He believed if people had true knowledge of the world perhaps they would not take up arms, and perhaps he could be this in between of the news of the world. And the world would be more peaceful

Why does Kidd worry what will become of Johanna when she's returned to her German family? He worries that they use their captives for work and not try to let them be to get back to their old lives in their own way. Which the Captain and Johanna connect and there is a trust that she feels.

The tensions between the Indians, whites, soldiers and civilization of how America at a time wasn't sure if they were going to be alright. These tensions do underlie the story of the Captain and Johanna just by the culture she picked up. A white soldier with a girl that acted like she was going to war like the Indians. When Kidd traveled  on his own he was able to move around without a thought. Now with a child he needed to find different ways of surviving. Including surviving a fight with Almay which probably wouldn't happen if he wasn't with Johanna.

In Jefferson Kidd's journey with Johanna he felt he was drawn back in the stream of things because he had a life to protect. I think it means that after the war, and his printing business there wasn't really anything he truly long for. Sure he wanted to be with his daughters, sadly his wife passed. But when he had someone to protect, a job that he must not fail, it was like the old days.

Now for what I didn't like about the story. Although I appreciate the author for closing the chapters on the characters. And we all know their end story, and didn't like how the author jammed everything in that I believe it was the last two chapters. It would of been nice to have that woven in to their chapters.
I do like how Johanna Kidd's life turned out. She gets to start a new life. And seems like Jefferson Kidd did get to live a full life after all.

I give News of the World 3

It feels that the author ran out of what to write and we had to wait til the end with this information.

Nine Perfect Strangers

Let me start off by saying this was a strange story. Although I thought the characters were very interesting and funny, at times the feeling of each chapter was super drawn out. I believe the author gave depth to the characters. The more you dug in the more you found out.

Some readers stopped, couldn't go on. I didn't think I was either. But I plugged through it and glad I did. Out of all the people that went to this retreat I think The Marconi family had the most trouble before and after. Zoe, the daughter did find that light at the end. Frances and Tony were good characters. And a relationship for good. It was nice to see Carmel, Lars get along with the group as well as Ben and Jessica.

Masha and Yao they were weird.

I did enjoy the story. And maybe someday will be able to get to read another of Liane Moriarty's books. I have to admit when I found out it was going to be a movie the actors that will play Frances and Masha, I could see them as those characters .

Spoiler Alert!

   In Masha's head she thought by helping women out was to show them that some carried this self-loathing about their bodies. Especially Jessica and Carmel. I think men and women see this differently. I think women sure anguish over their appearance, their weight, a lot for other women than men. Men always had a superiority to them which makes them feel as though they need not change but women do.Women are more critical with each other, as themselves. Where men are more carefree, don't give a damn what people, or other men think.

I think that Masha being Russian was important allowed her to view men and women in a different way because she wasn't from the country. They have a heartache of their own. Their culture is harder. And for her to see how others are soft she thought best to give them a focus.

I thought Zach's suicide was a terrible thing that happened to him and his family. I believe his asthma medicine did contribute to his mental state. But it was brought up that he wasn't feeling right before hand either. Yes, Heather was wrong of not telling Napoleon about the possible side effects. Something could of been done. At least they could of ruled out asthma meds.

I think these strangers didn't want to be "transformed". Not in the way the meaning is. I think they went to this retreat house to learn to be happy/ier and healthy. Transformation to me is being completely different, not all time happy, or  healthy. And in that weird way Masha and the strangers themselves made it happen. So Masha did do the job the strangers paid her for.

I do look at the older man and younger woman with judgement. Hell, I was one. Too young is not acceptable. In that case it's usually the woman that really haven't been around their own age too much.They go in naive.

Usually when people go to these retreats they go through whatever is given. Lars is right, the people do allow themselves to go through whatever. I believe that's their way of happiness and health. But usually it is relaxation Although in this book Masha went too far which should of been questionable. And to leave the house. 

I guess Frances was never praised as a child. And certainly she wasn't getting that from her mother being a feminist . So when she would apologize to men she saw herself as doing something not right. Something was wrong with her, Frances's self-loathing. She needed approval. It took this strange happening to find Tony.

How Napoleon felt about being too young and happy to know that love wasn't enough, I agree. I think it is a question of both, age and having a true tragedy in life before contributes to this. When your younger nothing matters except what is now and in front of you. If that person is making you happy you don't mind being around them. And you think it's forever. Until reality hits and bills need to be paid, you need to work with each other. Than people find they need to compromise and don't want to. When tragedy hits, you would hope brings you closer to see how much love is there, or not. That's when you see the true feelings come out.

It is a conscious choice to have a good or bad marriage. If there is a hold on hatred for a person than there is going to be a bad marriage. There needs to be a marriage that you compromise with each other. There are ways to work things out. And yes that is the secret of a good marriage.I've been married 36 years and everyday is something. I never take it for granted. As for Napoleon and Heather they need to work together and for themselves to make it work. Zoe found a way.

Really never thought the characters were figured out for me. Never really thought about it. I guess if I had to pick one, it would have to be Carmel. I felt that she always was about that Masha was going to make her different for her than she wouldn't have to work on it herself. When I read her story that until the tragedy happened at the house she had no one to give her positive feedback. Even her own children she couldn't take control. So when she took control, met the new girlfriend, was confident. That is when she came clear.

Good question. I think the author is making a statement for female characters like Frances. Here is a woman who is a writer, not to even think of romance. But you think that she is strong in a lot of ways. Frances writes like it's the old ages from her experiences with men. Not like todays world that we are strong and can have a bit of both worlds. 

My thought on the author having an agenda for female characters other than just finding a man is true. She is that women's author who shows they can be strong and soft at the same time. As for her other books this is 1st book I've read. But did watch the series Big Little Lies and author conveys the same thing. I think Frances that gets married is where she wanted to be. Frances still believed she is strong but could share her contentment with Tony. As for Carmel not getting married, I think she needs to find herself as one for now. Finding her voice and being content she may or may not find someone that will let her be her.

Don't agree that Masha 's comment about the best compliment is a successful woman is being humble. Why should she be humble? Because she is less of a person as a man? I find society isn't ready for women to be Commander-In Chief. But they better get used to it women are breaking that glass ceiling all the time. Men still have that stronghold that if a women is in charge than life would go backward. Although men still can't get it in their heads that women are the backbone of family, society, they are more than what you see.

I was surprised at the end to find out that Masha had 2 children. Reading on her son that died and what it did to her relationship with her husband. I was surprised that she had that same mentality that she would be no good as a mother after how she described herself. I'm guessing it goes back to her culture of how her country perceives women.

My thought would probably be the same if she were a man and left family. It's a cop out! Less of a mother, less of a father makes no difference.

I give Nine Perfect Strangers 4 

The reason being that it was a bit of waste from one chapter to next to set up the chacters. Hoping it will make a good show.

The Pale Horse

I've been reading some Agatha Christie books of lately. The Pale Horse does not disappoint. It was a bit slow in beginning and around the 100th page it started to pick up. I've read some reviews and I can see how it could be seen as dark. Speaking of witches,and rituals can be scary.

I like reading about the different characters that Christie weaves into her stories. Mark Easterbrook a stand alone for a stand alone book, is very interesting character. Usually these characters put themselves into situations that people don't ask for. Which is annoying. But Mark was different he was asked for his help. He had friends, cousin that could use his help. Ariadne Oliver that was a well known writer of detective stories. She had a weird way of getting into her story characters. She was very eccentric . "The moment you've done a murder the whole thing is terribly obvious", and there is where she needed to be creative and ran things by Mark.Too bad there wasn't so much about her this time. Hope to read more about her again. She seemed fun.

The story alluded to the Shakespeare play MacBeth. And Mark felt that Shakespeare might get a few surprises if he saw his plays acted nowadays. To be able to call up a handy murderer whenever you wanted a little job done. Sounds strange but it can happen. And there lies the plot of the story.

The Pale Horse I believe had a couple of mysteries in one story. A mysterious list of names, people being dead (murdered or died of other causes?). Visited my Mark Easterbrook and friends, The Pale Horse an Inn, more going on there than just what you see from outside. Inside maybe witchery. Mark had to find out if this to be true. After finding out about Mr. Bradley he and his lady friend Ginger put together for a nice, scary experiment .  Who would've ever thought that people would go to the extreme of knowing there is a business to get rid of people they just don't want around anymore.

Having other characters that might be the one that did it. To find out that it was a totally different person/s. So the simple truth behind the Pale Horse ------. You'll have to read it to find out.

And a little romance for a couple too ;)

Very cleverly done. When the real murder/s please stand up! I can see how that came together. Well done Ms Christie! I love the idea "And I look and behold a Pale Horse: And his name is death, and Hell followed him". Now that is creepy.

One of my enjoyable Agatha Christie stories so far I read. Looking forward to more.

I give The Pale Horse 5

The Favorite Daughter

This story was very interesting. I thought the character of Jane was way out there. As I read it was believable that Jane felt all these things that she was saying about her family. I kept trying to find out how her behavior came about. Why she would think this of her family treating her the way she said. From the beginning I knew Jane was obsessed with death. When she was looking out at neighbor, the little boy playing dangerously (or so she says) knowing that "child is about to die". From than on it was all about her and how her husband and daughter treated her. Hmm... interesting to the point that both her husband David, and daughter Betsy was scared of her. Leads me to wonder whatever happened to her other daughter Mary.

Up until chapter 23 I wasn't feeling sorry for Jane. But I started to question where is this story taking me through Jane. I thought, Oh No! the characters around her, including David and Betsy were playing a part to actually make her tell the truth. Like the move Shutter Island. Than I thought no the ending is going to play out fast. Bam! we will know what happened to Mary, the end. 

But not bad how it all lead up to what happened to Mary. For sure there were others who knew certain things and played out nicely. I actually didn't think of what Jane was til end.

Jane Harris is not much different in her mind of what is a perfect life. Her mind was a powerful tool to lead her to believe of everything she did was for the better to protect her family. Her life a perfect routine. And when that routine is disrupted is when it goes wonky.

I don't think Jane had a favorite daughter. It's a part of what she is. Jane would play both girls. Whoever sizes up with her yardstick and she felt at the time was her favorite. For Mary she was Jane's favorite because Mary was gone. It was agreed the Jane would be her mother. For all purposes Betsy was her favorite when Jane focused attention on her. But when Betsy didn't do what Jane wanted than Betsy was stupid, not as graceful as Mary.

Again in Jane's mind she really wanted to become a better mother. With Mary gone she knows something is not right. And again she needs routine .

I don't think Elizabeth James was going to steal Mary from Jane. Mary found out about her biological mother and wanted to know more about her. And with the tension that Mary and Jane had to begin with Mary found peace with Elizabeth. Than things took off from there. Why shouldn't Elizabeth James know and offer to Mary?

I believe society does have this picture of what an ideal mother is. And yes Jane keeping up the facade of being this ideal mother in which (Jane believed) covered the true self of Jane.

No it wasn't hard for me to imagine a mother who isn't what she seems. In a whole we as mothers do seem to have to live up to this idea that we need to be perfect. Our children are our blood, our extensions of ourselves. But we falter. Including me. My daughter at some point made me believe I was this awful mother. That I punished myself. Now that she has children everything is coming back to her, and i wasn't so bad after all.

I think Betsy is like Jane in some way. But what she was doing was protecting herself. What she thinks is right was from what her mother thought of her. Jane really had her on a rollercoaster . Betsy couldn't leave her guard down. But I believe Betsy to have a happy life needs help professionally.

I do in a way feel sorry for Jane. Her reality was a play in her head. She thought all men loved her, she thought she could do no wrong. Jane did mention quite a bit about her acting.

Now that is a tough question about Kylie. Did she deserve what she got? In the end the question was never answered . It was just said that Jane better be right about Kylie. And since Jane the way she was, I believe she was telling the truth and yes Kylie deserved it. She shouldn't been messing around anyway with another women's husband.

I think David liked the thrill of the feeling of a new woman that he can conquer and impress. Even before the weirdness of Jane he was on the hunt. Which is not impressive at all. I think he is just a waste of time.

The behavior of Jane I heard, read about but never thought of a name for it. Narcissist, yes so that's what it is. Jane the protector. Protecting so much that she intruded in her daughter's lives as well as her husband making them hate her. I guess being a narcissist that sadly they make what is good, horrible.

A mind is so powerful the tricks it can play. 

And I will be looking forward to the author's next book.

I give The Favorite Daughter 5