January 2016

Brava, Valentine

By Adriana Trigiani

Audiobook

Brava, Valentine  is the second book in the Valentine Trilogy Series by Adriana Trigiani.  It continues the very engaging story of the life and loves of Valentine Roncalli.  Hilarious at times, the story is actually about the entire Roncalli family and the Angelini Shoe Company, The setting and family members bounce between New York City and Italy, and in Brava, Valentine, new family members from South America emerge.  Cassandra Campbell’s narration is perfect for the story.  Definitely a good read and/or an entertaining listen!

Moonlit Garden

By Corina Bowmann

Translated from German by Sandra Dalton

Moonlit Garden was a pleasant surprise from Kindle First. Young widow, Lilly Kaiser, embarks on a journey to find the true owner of a mysterious violin that is dropped in her antiques shop.  Her journey takes her from Germany to England, Italy and the exotic island of Sumatra.  While solving the mystery, she begins to heal her heart.  Moonlit Garden is a sad story with a sweet ending.  The translation from German by Sandra Dalton is excellent.  Definitely a good read!

Perfect Son

By Barbara Claypole White

The Perfect Son was another winning book from Kindle First.  Barbara Claypole White explores families with disabilities. Throughout the book, the Fitzwilliam family deals with heart disease, OCPD and Tourette’s syndrome.  She gives the reader real insight into how individuals and families dealing with these problems cope and survive. Although specifics would be different, probably any number of other issues and disabilities could have been inserted into the equation.  Families in trauma share many commonalities.  Claypole White makes it clear that while it is difficult, life can go on and families can survive difficult situations.  I like that the book did not dwell on sentimentality.  While dark, it was also uplifting.  I especially liked the music listings at the end of the book.  I’m going to look into other books by the Barbara Claypole White.  This was a definitely a significant read!