Thursday, October 22, 2009

The Piano Teacher by Janice Y.K. Lee



This is first novel for this author. The story was quite engaging, and I particularly loved listening to the audiobook. The narrator had a beautiful English accent. I learned a few details about the historical events in Hong Kong in the 40's and 50's.

Although I liked this book...I'm yearning for one of my favorite genre's -- suspense!

Sunday, October 11, 2009


Jodi Picoult tackles a variety of tough real-life situations. This one is no exception. However, I found myself at odds with the main character's actions from the beginning, and I was unconvinced to give her a pass for her behavior because she had such a strong love for her child.
Nonetheless, the circumstances surrounding the event were compelling enough to keep me reading. There is even a very neat "genetic twist" involved that Melissa, in particular, might enjoy.
The books by this author are very formula oriented, however it is quick entertainment. I read this one in the car. I know...cheating.

Monday, October 5, 2009

The Widow of the South

This is the author's first novel.
This novel is a nice blend of fact with reasonable fiction inserted. An interesting view of this tragic war from the perspective of various individuals, but primarily from one Southern woman in Tennessee.