A couple of years ago, I read a powerfully moving book titled Etched in Sand. It's the story of Regina Calcaterra and the abuses she and her four siblings endured at the hands of their mother and the utter failures of the foster care system. It's a heartbreaking story that is hard to read but also showcases the power of perseverance. In her book, Calcaterra carefully … [Read more...]
Euphoria by Lily King is a Literary Gem
Before Cynthia Bond was an Oprah darling, she was kind enough to participate in The Book Wheel's inaugural #30Authors event. In it, she reviewed Lily King's Euphoria, a book about three anthropologists caught in a love triangle with longterm implications. Euphoria is a stunning novel, both in its beautifully subtle style of writing and the story that King creates and I can't … [Read more...]
‘Avenue of Mysteries’ Is Classic Irving
As a diehard John Irving fan, I was thrilled when his latest book showed up on my doorstep courtesy of Simon & Schuster. I'm convinced that there is nothing the man will write that I won't love and Avenue of Mysteries was no different. Although it wasn't my favorite book of his so far, I enjoyed it immensely and am pleased that he can remain a top contender for my … [Read more...]
Klaussmann Stuns in Villa America
In 2012, Liza Klaussmann (a #30Authors contributor) wowed me with her novel, Tigers In Red Weather, which was my absolutely favorite book that year. So when I found out that she had another coming out, I was overjoyed. Her latest, Villa America, did not disappoint and I'm thrilled that her second novel lived up to my (high) expectations.Villa America is about real-life Sara … [Read more...]
The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto by Mitch Albom
Mitch Albom has, once again, delivered a story that highlights the interconnectedness of human beings and how one simple act can change lives. The Magic Strings of Frankie Presto is the story of a gifted musician who is abandoned at birth and wanders through life, fame, fortune, and solitude with his guitar with the strings that turn blue for only one reason. From infancy, … [Read more...]