Authors P-T

James Patterson

Alex Cross Mystery Series - What can be said about these books, really, that the Bestsellers Lists haven't already said? They are great mystery books (and the movies based on some of the books weren't too bad, either). The only problem that I have with these novels is that most of them start to run together after a while. But they always manage to keep my interest, even when rereading! *Buy it or borrow it from the library*

The Beach House - This book was James Patterson crossed with John Grisham! Very enjoyable reading... *Buy it*

Cradle and All - To some Christians, this book might be a bit disturbing, with its talk of virgin births (but of demons, not saviors!) However, if you understand that this strictly entertainment, it was a pretty good book. *Borrow it from the library*

Hide and Seek - A battered woman story with an interesting twist, I thought. (I heard it's to be made into a movie sometime soon.) It read much like most of Patterson's other work (he's such a talented writer), and I didn't want to put it down. *Borrow it from the library*

Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas - This was such a wonderful book, although it was incredibly sad. I have to wonder how many mothers will end up keeping journals for their children after reading this... *Buy it*

When the Wind Blows
The Lake House (sequel to When the Wind Blows)
Women's Murder Club Series


Jodi Picoult

Keeping Faith - This author likes to deal with interesting topics, especially situations where there is no "bad guy" and everyone is trying to do what they think is best for all involved. I enjoyed this novel because of that. The writing is very good, and I highly recommend this book. *Borrow it from the library*

My Sister's Keeper - Wow...this was a great book, at least right up to the very end when the author took the easy way out to end the story. By handling such a difficult issue, it gives the reader a lot to think about. There was also a romance mixed into the story that I think I could have done without, as for me it only detracted from the main focus. I really enjoyed the book, and since was the first Picoult novel I've read, I'm looking forward to reading more of her work. *Buy it*

The Pact - This may have been one of the most depressing stories I've ever read. And I'm a little disappointed that the author uses the same format for all of her works...A very controversial issue fought personally between family and friends that culminates in a tense legal battle in which you don't find out exactly what is happening until the defendant takes the stand and lets out an earthshaking truth. While it worked for me in the first couple of books by this author, I do wish that she would vary her storytelling vehicle just a little! *Borrow it from the library or don't bother*

Dani Shapiro

Family History


Anita Shreve

The Last Time They Met - I absolutely hated this book. When I finished reading it, I literally threw the book across the room. Thank goodness I'd only borrowed it from the library instead of buying it!! (And don't worry...the impromptu flight didn't injure the book in any way, and it was returned to the library in the same condition in which it arrived at my home.) This book completely turned me off of all of Shreve's work. Since reading this about 2 years ago, I've never read anything else she's written. *Don't bother!!!!!*

(If you've read more of Shreve's books and think I should give her a second chance, feel free to email me - but be sure to promise me that whatever you're recommending is nothing like this book.)


Donna Tartte

The Secret History - This was recommended by others who read Goodman's Lake of Dead Languages, so I got from the library and gave it a try. To be honest, I found it rather dull. It seemed to me that the plot called for more emotions from the main characters, and it was terribly long and occasionally pretentious. (I've never been a fan of authors who sprinkle their characters' conversations with comments in languages most people don't understand. Can't they at least put a translation section in the back of the book, or something??) Anyway, it wasn't a bad book, but I'm glad that I didn't buy it. *Borrow it from the library*