Latest Reads...

It's been a while since I've done a book review. Guess that's because I haven't had much time to read lately. But you can be sure I always have a book on the go, and since my last post about books, I have finished three: Sonoma Rose by Jennifer Chiaverini, Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn and The Art of Racing in the Rain by Garth Stein.
I enjoyed Sonoma Rose, as I always do Chiaverini's books, but I didn't like it as much as her Elm Creek Quilts series. I won this book in a blog giveaway back in late February (thanks again Janet Ann!!) so it's high time I got around to reading it. Set in Prohibition era America, it's the story of a young woman who decides to break away from her abusive husband for the safety of her children. The discovery that her husband is boot-legging is the final straw and she flees with her children and her precious heirloom quilts. With the help of her first love they escape to start a new life near San Fransisco, while trying to find medical help for two of her children who have a "mysterious disease". It's a good story- what I would describe as an "easy summer read"... I think I'll donate this book to my Guild's library to add to our Chiaverini collection. (Speaking of Giveaways, I see I have almost reached 100 Followers. [ Welcome newest Followers!!] When I reach 100, I think I should have a Giveaway to celebrate!! Stay tuned!)
Gone Girl was a disappointment, I think it has been highly over-rated. I did eventually get "hooked in" and kept reading just to see what would happen to this totally dysfunctional couple and their marriage, but I could not recommend this book. The ending was totally ridiculous and unrealistic. Fiction indeed!! I am no prude but I cannot see why an author has to try and see how many times she can put the "F word" on one page.. are there not enough other words in the English language for her to use??? Don't bother - there are too many other good books out there waiting to be read...
Like  The Art of Racing in the Rain!! Loved it!! Told from the prospective of the family dog, it's the story of family, love, loss and loyalty. You will feel a wide range of emotions (happiness, sadness, anger, compassion, etc.) and if you don't shed a tear or two, well, you're not paying attention!!  You'll learn a little about racing and a lot about how much a pet is a part of the family. I'm not a "dog person" but I don't think I'll ever look at a canine pet the same way again... A great read - put it on your list!
Next - our visit at Old Sturbridge Village (as soon as I edit more photos)... Hope the sun is shining where you are...

Peace,
Linda

"The habit of reading is the only enjoyment in which there is no alloy; it lasts when all other pleasures fade." ~ Anthony Trollope