Noir Genre

I haven’t read extensively in the noir genre. One of the most publicized titles is “The Postman Always Rings Twice” by James Cain. This book was banned after being published in the 1930’s due to the utter darkness of the plot. The story is told in a brutal way, devoid of emotion and with violent descriptions of what happens when we allow greed and lust to overtake us.

I was surprised that I enjoyed this book, as dark novels are not among my normal fodder. The sheer bluntness of the violence kept me turning the pages. There was also a movie made from this book, but I’ve not seen it. It may be worth a viewing...the book is definitely worth a read.

The Power of Now

What does spirituality mean to you? To me, spirituality is the harmony of your inner self with the world around you. Spirituality is being content and peaceful. Throughout my life I have been pulled toward many great thinkers. One of these is Eckhart Tolle.

“The Power of Now” was a book that truly moved me and opened doors of thought that had previously been closed to me. I had to read this book twice to get some valuable insight and I think with further reading I could glean much more.

Often people want to force you into a box of religion. Either you believe in “this” God, or you are wrong. I have chosen a more brood minded approach to my spiritual growth. I think “religion” should be lived and not discussed. All of the rules in typical organized religion miss the point of spirituality completely, in my opinion. To me, religion is the strongest, most private thing a person can experience.

That is one of the reasons this book spoke to me so strongly. I believe that feeding your inner self and living your life in such a way to improve the lives of others is the highest purpose of a life. Also, living in the Now--there is only this moment. Your past is gone and your future is not promised. Eckhart calls this “the joy of Being.”

This book is absolutely not for leisure reading, nor is it for reading by those that are not interested in self-development and/or spirituality. If that is not important to you, reading this book is useless.

Momzillas

I would recommend you skip “Momzillas” by Jill Kargman unless:

A) You live in New York City in a very upscale neighborhood.

B) You stay home with children and your husband makes over $1MM a year.

C) You find shallow rich people fascinating

D) You are very, very bored with no other reading options.

I was not impressed by this book at all. Funny…no. Insightful…um, no. Mommy competition can be spun into some funny stuff, but that didn't happen in this book.

Spiritual Parenting

Self development is an ongoing quest in my life. On the parenting front, “The Seven Spiritual Laws for Parents” by Deepak Chopra is a must read. The book focuses on how to help your child look internally, to the beauty within themselves and the world around them.

One important take away, for me, was asking your child each day how they made a difference. I used this question to prompt my daughter to think about things she has learned about herself, how her actions help others, or how she can be productive in society.

Focusing on the questions Chopra provides, I found myself learning more about my children and the things that make them feel special and valuable. One of my favorite parts was the daily focus ideas. An example: Monday is a day to focus on giving. Teach your child that if they want to get something, they need to give it in return. For example, if they want respect, they need to give it.

The book gives ideas on how to plant the seed of giving in your child by creating family rituals to reinforce values. I find myself going back to parts of this book again and again. Chopra has been inspirational in my life and this book added to that. I think this is a must-read for parents wishing to foster compassion and caring in their children.

Stay

"Stay" by Allie Larkin is a funny, touching story. I loved the character of "Van," a woman who is in love with her best friend. Said best friend marries her other best friend. Van proceeds to get drunk and order a dog off the internet. I found myself laughing out loud and could relate to Van's emotional instability. I was rooting for her to fall in love and live happily ever after.

"Captive Queen" is Brilliant

Find a heady combination of history and the power of a strong woman in “Captive Queen” by Alison Weir. This novel brings the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine to the page. Her relationship with King Henry II is told in sensuous, passionate language. I was enraptured from page one. I could literally feel the passion, fire and strong emotions of Eleanor. The story was so vivid and imaginative. Weir is a brilliant story teller. I will definitely read more of her work.

Mixed review on "Somewhere Inside"

The story of two American women held prisoner in North Korea is told by one of the captives in “Somewhere Inside.” The story unfolds through two points of view. That of Laura Ling, held captive, and her sister Lisa Ling, working to gain her freedom.

It was a touching story of family bonds, hope and the bond between sisters. I enjoyed the story from that perspective, but I had some issues with it, otherwise. In the back of my mind I kept thinking of the thousands of people held captive that don’t have the political connections of the Ling sisters. Laura Ling was given extremely special treatment. And what about the people that she may have hurt by writing this book? Her guards, and the refugees? I feel that she put her own well-being ahead of many others by publicizing her account.

This book is a good read but lacks insight and depth.

Balance

Motivational books can really change your perspective. I try to read a new one every few weeks to keep my mind alert and open. A good one is “Being in Balance” by Wayne Dyer.

Creating a balanced life is something I continuously struggle toward. In this busy life, it often feels like you have to be everywhere at once. A perfect Mom, a perfect employee, perfect wife, perfect friend…and the list goes on.

Dyer urges you to focus on your thoughts and build the life you want. This book inspired me to meditate on the harmonious, peaceful life I crave.

This would make a great gift for those interested in self-development, or a book to keep on the bedside table to keep proper perspective and focus on your goals and desires.

Another to Skip

“Divorced, Desperate and Deceived” by Christie Craig is another book to skip, unless you like traditional romances with little character development. I was not attached to any of the characters and the plot was just not believable. I had to force myself to finish, because I honestly didn’t care what happened to the characters. I suppose I prefer stronger female characters.

Fate

Looking for a book that will leave you in a state of deep thought? Pick up Fateless by “Imre Kertesz.” What an excellent writer. Kertesz made me feel so many strong emotions. He has a true gift and won the Nobel prize for Literature to prove it.

In semi-autobiographical format, the book follows a teen boy through the Auschwitz and Buchenwald concentration camps. The boy, George, attempts to accept his fate, but what is his fate? Is this his fate? Is there such a thing as fate? Can you overcome said fate?

George was living through unimaginable atrocity and trying to stay sane. The innocence of his childhood was stripped away and he came face to face with the evil that lurks in this world.

I was often in tears and after I finished, I pondered my own fate and my beliefs on many different things. This is the type of book that can change who you are as a person.

Gore...Bore...

Kristin Gore’s debut novel “Sammy’s Hill” was filled with witty humor and political puns. And yes, this is Al Gore’s daughter!

Politics are a subject I very much enjoy, so I was trying to find the “true” politicians in Gore’s characters. Is she talking about Bush? Clinton? Kerry?

This book could have used some additional character development, the characters were shallow and difficult to like. Overall, I liked Gore’s voice, but felt the comedy was very overdone and became tiresome.

I wouldn’t recommend this book to any serious reader, but if you need a fun, “fluff” read, this works in a pinch (although it still wouldn't be a top pick for in a pinch).

Paulo Coelho

For the more serious reader, “Veronika Decides to Die” by Paulo Coelho is a must read. It was my first Coelho book, and he made my “must read more” list.

In the story, Veronika makes a decision to kill herself, but fails. She wakes up in a mental hospital where she decides she wants to live, but is told she has done irreparable harm to her body and will die within a week. This gives Veronika the absolute freedom to experience all the things she has denied herself in the past. But is she really dying? And how does she really feel about life?

I found so much valuable subtext in this book. I may have to read it a second time to go over my thoughts!

Seductive...

Lisa Kleypas is a favorite of mine. She creates characters that I relate to and fall in love with. "Seduce Me at Sunrise" was no different.

Intense and passionate, Merripen drew me in from beginning to end.

Kleypas draws complex characters that truly come alive. If you like dynamic romance, add her books to your 'must read' list.

Food for Soul

The atrocities of the Holocaust are endless. I have read many memoirs by Holocaust survivors and their stories fascinate me. How does one live through such an unimaginable nightmare, and how does it change who they are?

One man who pens incredible narratives regarding his time in Auschwitz, is Primo Levi. I read “If This is a Man” and “If Not Now, When?” Both of these books touched me in many ways.

“If This is a Man” tells of his incarceration in a concentration camp for nearly a year. Levi was a chemist and became a writer following his ordeal. The views he expresses on the substance of man and of religion are complex. The way he tells his story is heart-wrenching. It is unbelievable that humans are capable of treating other humans in such a manner. As a survivor, Levi took on an enormous responsibility in bearing witness to the horrors of the Nazi regime's attempt to exterminate the Jewish people.

His story kept me awake, reflecting on the horror that people went through during this time in history. I put myself in the place of the mothers, waiting to go into the gas chambers, holding their crying, hungry children. I dreamed of feeling that powerless and persecuted. I also reflected on my own religious beliefs and they only grew stronger.

Ignoring the atrocities committed is wrong, and allows history to repeat itself. Levi was not afraid to tell his story and to be graphic in its telling. Everyone should be aware of just what happened to millions of people due to the beliefs of a few people in power. This is something that could very well happen again. Something that happens in parts of the world on varying scales.

Susan Elizabeth Phillips

Susan Elizabeth Phillips never disappoints me. I recently finished two of her books.

While I still enjoyed it, "First Lady" was not my favorite. I had a harder time than usual connecting with the characters. And anything that tries to play off of reality (president theme) tends to fall flat with me.

On the other hand, I loved "Heaven, Texas." This represents the magic of Phillips. Strong, emotional characters. Loved it!

Outstanding Suspense Author

For fans of thriller/suspense, Tess Gerritsen is a must-read. I am currently into the Jane Rizzoli/Maura Isles series and so far, I have loved every book. Gerritsen writes in stunning detail and keeps the reading in suspense.

First time reading Gerritsen? Try: "The Surgeon."

Catch-22

One of my many favorite classics is “Catch-22” by Joseph Heller. This book is not an easy read. It has to be read slowly so that the satire can be digested and appreciated. Ten years ago I wouldn’t have gotten the appeal, but today I absolutely love it.

One humorous quote, “Yossarian – the very sight of the name made him shudder. There were so many esses in it. It just had to be subversive. It was like the word subversive itself. It was like seditious and insidious too, and like socialist, suspicious, fascist and Communist.”

Taking all of the sarcastic pieces and filtering out the humor is the key to this book. It also makes you think a bit on the seriousness of certain things...should they be taken so seriously?

In Death

Another series that I'm hooked on are the "In Death" books. Nora Roberts, writing as J.D. Robb, is the author.

First of all, on a side note, is anyone else annoyed when an author chooses to write under an assumed name, but then writes "Nora Roberts writing as J.D. Robb" on the cover? The point of this is what, exactly??

Rant aside, The “In Death” series follows a complex, character—Eve Dallas and her enigmatic mate, Roarke. Set in the future (which is usually not my thing, but really works here), these books tantalize and leave me waiting for more every time. I just finished “Loyalty In Death.” Here is the list, so far:


Naked in Death
Glory in Death
Immortal in Death
Rapture in Death
Ceremony in Death
Vengeance in Death
Holiday in Death
Conspiracy in Death
Loyalty in Death
Witness in Death
Judgment in Death
Betrayal in Death
Seduction in Death
Reunion in Death
Purity in Death
Portrait in Death
Imitation in Death
Divided in Death
Visions in Death
Survivor in Death
Origin in Death
Memory in Death
Born in Death
Innocent in Death
Creation in Death
Strangers in Death
Salvation in Death
Promises in Death
Kindred in Death
Fantasy in Death
Indulgence in Death
Treachery in Death

If you like suspense/crime fiction and strong female characters check out this series!

For Lacy

When Laci Peterson disappeared in 2002, I was on a late night crime show stint. I was pulled in by this case immediately. Something about her drew me and I followed the case closely.

When her body was found and her husband was arrested for murder, I continued to follow the story. When I was pregnant in 2004, coverage was still ongoing. I felt very deeply for this woman, so excited about having her first baby, and the betrayal she surely felt at the time of her death.

I recently read “For Laci” by Sharon Rocha. In this book, Laci’s Mom tells about her life. This book was incredibly moving. As a mother I felt for Sharon Rocha and also for all that Laci missed in life. Rocha’s book was a beautiful tribute to her lost daughter. A mother’s love is never-ending!

Secrets Can Be Murder

If you follow criminal cases, “Secrets Can Be Murder” by Jane Velez-Mitchell offers a glimpse into the criminal mind. She provides details on stories that have been high profile over the past several years, including Scott Peterson, Andrea Yates and more.

This book was worth the read, although the analysis provided was sometimes off-putting.

Alex Cross Series

It’s only in the past several years that I have become interested in series. I used to be too impatient to follow the stories through in the proper order.

One series that I highly recommend is the Alex Cross series by James Patterson. The Alex Cross character is well-developed and each book naturally leads me to reading the next. These books are mystery/crime/thriller…somewhere in those genres. If you enjoy police fiction, this is a series to try. So far, I have not gotten bored with the plots as they are all original and not repeats of previous books.

Several of these titles have been made into movies. As always, the book is better than the movie!

Here is the series, in order:

Along Came a Spider
Kiss the Girls
Jack & Jill
Cat and Mouse
Pop Goes the Weasel
Roses are Red
Violets Are Blue
Four Blind Mice
The Big Bad Wolf
London Bridges
Mary, Mary
Cross
Double Cross
Cross Country
Alex Cross’s Trial
I, Alex Cross
Cross Fire
Kill Alex Cross

I am currently on number six, “Roses are Red.”

The Red Thread

One of the many things that changed when I became a mother was my taste in literature. A book that touched my “Mommy” emotions was “The Red Thread” by Ann Hood.

Hood developed characters that approach motherhood in different ways. The mother who lost a child and is afraid to love again, the woman who wants a child but is crippled by the lack of control over her own body, the woman who desperately wants a baby but has miscarried numerous times, are a few. All of the families choose to adopt baby girls from China. Woven into their quest to become mothers are the stories of the women in China who are giving up their daughters for various reasons. And then the overlaying theme of the book is that there is a red thread connecting every mother to her eventual child, even if that child is to be adopted. No one understands this more than a Mother, the love for a child is indescribable, until it is experienced.

This was the first novel I have read by Ann Hood. She made my list of authors to read further, as her writing was enigmatic and true. So many dynamics, but not overdone.

Raw Emotion-Filled Novels

“Every Last One” by Anna Quindlan was a rollercoaster. I strongly associated with the life of a busy mother, and then sympathized when, "wham!", life changes forever. The absolute shock of what happens in her life was shocking. I went from feeling a kinship with the character to feeling horrified and then grateful and appreciative.

I don’t want to give away the details, so just try it out and let me know what you think!

Also pick up Quindlen’s “One True Thing.” Another complex female character struggling with a complicated relationship. This one between daughter and mother, instead of mother and children.

I loved both of these novels and plan to read more by Anna Quindlan soon.

Stephanie Plum Series

I became hooked on the Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich about a year ago. These books are currently in the news due to “One for the Money” being made into a movie.

Honestly, I had a little trouble getting into the first few books. I started to get the audiobooks and I love hearing these read by Loralei King. She does an amazing job of bringing the characters to life.

I love the characters Evanovich has created. I'm drawn into the relationships, especially between Stephanie, Morelli and Ranger. Each character is lovable in their own way.

After the first few books I have mostly lost interest in the “mysteries”. They have all become too similar. Lots of bombs, fires, shootings and break-ins. At some point they all begin to run together.

I like that the main female character is independent and hilarious. It’s good to read a story where the woman has two love interests and that’s ok! However, I’m rooting for Morelli to completely win her over. I keep reading the series to see what happens between the characters, I'm bored by the rest at this point.

I just finished #15! Here are the titles:

One for the Money
Two for the Dough
Three to Get Deadly
Four to Score
High Five
Hot Six
Seven Up
Hard Eight
To the Nines
Then Big ones
Eleven on Top
Twelve Sharp
Lean Mean Thirteen
Fearless Fourteen
Finger Lickin Fifteen
Sizzling Sixteen
Smokin Seventeen
Explosive Eighteen

Obsessing...

Current number of books on my "to read" list...2068. And the list continues to grow!

Where do you get your book recommendations? I get mine from goodreads.com--friends, lists and recommendations based on what I have already read. I also get ideas from the amazon.com bestseller lists. And other blogs, of course!

A Pale View of Hills

“A Pale View of Hills” by Kazuo Ishiguro was a book that kept me guessing, even after I finished reading it. Was the main character, Etsuko telling a true story? Or revising her own life story?

Ishiguro has an enigmatic voice that easily kept me reading. I was often confused and disturbed throughout the story, but my interest never waned. If you are looking for a book that holds your interest, give this one a try!

Still Missing

Chevy Stevens debut novel "Still Missing" had me hooked from the first page. I relished the way the story unfolded as the main character tells the story of her abduction to her therapist. The plot was intriguing, with many twists and turns. I am tagging this author for future reading.

Susan Elizabeth Phillips

I love a good romance novel. As a teenager, I went through a long phase of reading nothing but the romance genre. The grocery store shorts, modern, historical…any love story with a happy ending. As I’ve aged, I my tastes have expanded and romance is no longer my favorite genre. However, there are a few authors that write the most compelling romances. These authors don’t focus only on the “happily ever after” but draw out complex characters and intriguing stories. These books make me FEEL…happy, sad, confused, excited.

Susan Elizabeth Phillips is one of those authors. I have yet to read one of her books that I did not like. One of my recent reads was “Dream a Little Dream.” The male and female characters were both deep and often had dark, intense emotion. This book made me chuckle and it made me cry. This author always makes me feel strong emotions through her writing.

Here's a list to get you started!

Risen Glory
Glitter Baby
Fancy Pants
Hot Shot
Honey Moon
It Had to Be You
Heaven, Texas
Kiss An Angel
Nobody's Baby But Mine
Dream a Little Dream
Lady Be Good
First Lady
This Heart of Mine
Just Imagine
Breathing Room
Ain't She Sweet?
Match Me If You Can
Natural Born Charmer

Seven Year Switch

"Seven Year Switch" by Claire Cook was a bit of a fluff book. I read it quickly and was mostly engaged in the story. I found the main character to be witty and likeable. She struggles between her past and her future, to find what will truly make her happy.

This is a good recommendation to read in one sitting. Maybe a long car ride or a day at the beach.

Show No Mercy

A friend recommended the author Cindy Gerard, specifically her Black Ops series. I just finished “Show No Mercy.” This is an action packed romance with an alpha male character along with a strong female character.

For the romance genre, this is the type I enjoy. I will continue the series!

A Stolen Life

I am intrigued by memoirs, reading the true story of someone else's life and seeing how they have overcome hurdles and challenges.

"A Stolen Life" by Jaycee Dugard is not to be missed. I was drawn into the news when she was found after being held captive for 18 years.

Having your child kidnapped is a horrifying prospect for any parent. And then not knowing where they are, if they are dead or alive, for 18 years...I cannot imagine. And, of course, who can imagine being that child. Being kidnapped at 11, being held in a backyard prison, bearing the children of your captor....unimaginable.

Jaycee tells her story in a straightforward, honest voice. I relished every page. I thought of her constantly while reading the book, and still keep her in my thoughts. What she has overcome is simply amazing. This was her story to tell, and I appreciated the lessons she imparted.