Last of 2013

Lost in Translation  

By Nicole Mones

I loved Lost in Translation, the second book I’ve read by Nicole Mones.  I really have enjoyed both books that I’ve read by her.  They were both well researched, making them both informative and entertaining.  I love the Chinese setting and have learned a lot about more modern periods that are less well known.  The main character is a modern female, strong and well-developed.  I related to many of her internal struggles and found her growth throughout the story engaging.  I will definitely read more by Nicole Mones.  I recommend Lost in Translation as a really good read!

The Luminaries

By Eleanor Catton

The Luminaries by Eleanor Catton certainly delivered quantity in this 29+hours audio book from Audible.com.  I chose the book because it was a 2013 Man Booker Prize winner and the Canadian Governor Generals Literary Award 2013 winner.  The audio book was entertaining, but slow at times.  The plot consisted of many intertwining stories, told in flashbacks.  Sometimes it was difficult to follow and understand the relationships.  However, the Victorian setting and story was engaging and interesting, especially as an audiobook.  I’m not sure I would have enjoyed it as much as an 848-page book, however, it was a good listen.

Accused: A Rosato & Associates Novel Book 14

By Lisa Scottoline

Somehow, I received an ad for The Accused by Lisa Scottoline on Facebook.  I’m so glad I saw it.  It was a very refreshing, light mystery… just what I needed.  I loved the appealing, female main character and the Philadelphia setting.  Although a little ditzy at times, Mary DiNunzio, was strong and believable lawyer working through an engaging mystery.  Although this was a recent addition to the Rosato & Associates series (October 29, 2013), I was easily able to follow the story and relate to the characters.  I will definitely look for more mysteries by Lisa Scottoline.  The Audible.com version was a very entertaining listen.

The All-True Travels and Adventures of Lidie Newton: A Novel

By Jane Smiley

I’m not sure where my copy of the book came from, but The All-True Travels and Adventures of Lidie Newton: A Novel by Jane Smiley found its way to the top of the pile under my bed.  The first person narrated novel covers the settlement of the Kansas Territory prior to the Civil War.  It’s not a period that I know much about, so I can’t speak for the accuracy of the story.  However, I have found myself looking through the book to check and see if it really is a novel several times.  It reads as truth, spoken through the voice of the main character, Lidie Newton.  I enjoyed the book and would definitely read more by Jane Smiley.  I recommend The All-True Travels and Adventures of Lidie Newton: A Novel as a good historical novel and a good read.