Men and Dogs by Katie Crouch

One of the strangest books I've ever read, but not entirely a waste of time. This is the story of a woman who can't move forward with her life until she answers the questions from her past that continue to haunt her. I couldn't help but dislike the protagonist, but also couldn't quit reading. Finally she learns that "sometimes there won't be a why" but it takes a long time to get to that point.

Would I recommend this book? It's an easy read, but still quite annoying.

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins

Final book in the Hunger Games series. Katniss Everdeen reluctantly agrees to be the face of the revolution of the Districts against the Capitol. As the story unfolds, she discovers layers of deception and struggles to follow her gut to achieve her personal agenda.

Would I recommend this book? Though it's my least favorite of the series, it's the conclusion, thus necessary to read.

The Girl Who Played With Fire by Stieg Larsson

Second in the series, Lisbeth Salander is accused of multiple murders. Forced to go into hiding, she must rely (unwillingly) on Blomkvist to help her solve the many mysteries and clear her name.

Would I recommend this book? YES!

The Castaways by Elin Hilderbrand

Story of four couples who are best friends and the many ways in which their dynamic is interupted when one of the couples dies in a boating accident, leaving behind two small children and many unanswered questions.

Would I recommend this book? It's long, but still a good read.

Tinkers by Paul Harding

Another library book club pick. This was not my kind of book...slightly confusing with the manner it is written and overall, a pretty strange storyline.

Would I recommend this book? Wouldn't even cross my mind.

Every Last One by Anna Quindlen

Mary Beth Latham is first and foremost a mother. Her three teenaged children come first, before her career, or her life as the wife of a doctor. Caring for her family and preserving their everyday life is the most important thing in her life. When one of her sons becomes depressed, that becomes her focus until she is blindsided by a terrible act of violence. This is a story about facing the things that scare us most.

Would I recommend this book? ABSOLUTELY!

Rachel Calof's story by Rachel Calof

This was a selection from the book club at our local library. Short book, good history, but not incredibly engaging. Follows a Jewish immigrant as she settles in North Dakota with her new husband and his family. It was a tough life and I'm amazed that any of them survived, but I'm glad it wasn't much longer.

Would I recommend this book? If you like history, it's worth reading.