Articles by Wendy Robards

Opinion

• Guacamole (July 31, 2004) op_ed

  An overflowing bin of avocados at the grocery store is proof that summer has arrived, and there is arguably no better way to eat an avacado than in the perfect batch of guacamole.

• Lo-Carb for the Holidays? (November 13, 2004) op_ed

  Do you dream about buttery cookies, pies crammed with fruit, the brown glaze of fat turkeys just out of the oven, and mounds of garlicky mashed potatoes? This holiday season, just kick those skinny little lo-carb Nazis to the curb and enjoy yourself. After all, carbs are organic.

• Book Review: Dreamer by Sand Pilarski (May 1, 2005) book review

  Rich characters and vivid dreams provide the counterpoint to this tale of relationships as Solange Ambris loses first her exquisite but straying husband, then her admirable but controlling mother, leaving the middle-aged Sully left with the task of finally deciding for herself who she is when not defined by others.

• Summer Crossing: A Book Review (August 13, 2007) book review

  Piker Press staffer Wendy Robards discovers and reviews "Summer Crossing," Truman Capote's first novel, written when he was only 19 years old.

• Peony In Love: A Book Review (September 3, 2007) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews Lisa See's book "Peony In Love."

• The Reluctant Fundamentalist: A Book Review (January 14, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews "The Reluctant Fundamentalist" by Mohsin Hamid.

• The Outlander: A Book Review (January 28, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards previews the upcoming novel, "The Outlander" by Gil Adamson.

• Jackfish, The Vanishing Village: A Book Review (April 21, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews "Jackfish, The Vanishing Village," by Sarah Felix Burns.

• The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society: Review (August 11, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society" by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows.

• Crossing the River: Review (August 18, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Crossing the River" by Caryl Phillips.

• Sweetsmoke: Book Review and Give-away (August 18, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews "Sweetsmoke," by David Fuller, and explains how to enter her book give-away

• Hotel Du Lac: Review (August 25, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews Anita Brookner's book, "Hotel Du Lac".

• Maus I and Maus II: Book Reviews (September 1, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews Art Spiegelman's graphic novels "Maus I" and "Maus II."

• The Story of Forgetting: Book Review (September 8, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews "The Story of Forgetting" by Stefan Merrill Block.

• The Heretic's Daughter: A Book Review (September 15, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews Kathleen Kent's debut novel, "The Heretic's Daughter."

• House and Home: Book Review (September 22, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews "House and Home" by Kathleen McCleary.

• Ships Without A Shore: Book Review (September 29, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Ships Without A Shore" by Anne R. Pierce.

• Let The Northern Lights Erase Your Name: A Book Review (October 6, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews "Let The Northern Lights Erase Your Name", by Vendela Vida.

• The Emperor's Children: Book Review (October 13, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Emperor's Children" by Claire Messud.

• Music and Silence: Book Review (October 20, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Music and Silence" by Rose Tremain.

• The Brass Verdict: Book Review (October 27, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Brass Verdict" by Michael Connelly.

• Tomato Girl: Book Review (November 3, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Tomato Girl" by Jayne Pupek.

• Rebecca: Book Review (November 10, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the classic gothic novel, "Rebecca" by Daphne Du Maurier.

• Black Wave: Book Review (November 17, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the Book "Black Wave" by John and Jean Silverwood.

• An Exact Replica of a Figment of My Imagination: Book Review (November 24, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "An Exact Replica of a Figment of My Imagination," by Elizabeth McCracken.

• Nefertiti: Book Review (December 1, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Nefertiti" by Michelle Moran.

• The Robber Bride: Book Review (December 8, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Robber Bride" by Margaret Atwood.

• The Secret Scripture: Book Review (December 15, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Secret Scripture" by Sebastian Barry.

• Regeneration: Book Review (December 22, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Regeneration" by Pat Barker.

• The Eye in the Door: Book Review (December 29, 2008) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the second book in Pat Barker's WWI trilogy, "The Eye in the Door."

• The Ghost Road: Book Review (January 5, 2009) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the final book in Pat Barker's trilogy about WWI: "The Ghost Road."

• The White Tiger: Book Review (January 12, 2009) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The White Tiger," by Aravind Adiga.

• The Road Home: Book Review (January 19, 2009) book review "The Road Home" Rose Tremain

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Road Home" by Rose Tremain.

• Fingersmith: Book Review (January 26, 2009) book review Fingersmith

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Fingersmith" by Sarah Waters.

• After the Floods: Book Review (February 2, 2009) book review "After the Floods"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "After the Floods," by Bruce Henricksen.

• The Little Giant of Aberdeen County: Book Review (February 9, 2009) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Little Giant of Aberdeen County," by Tiffany Baker.

• In Hovering Flight: Book Review (February 16, 2009) book review "In Hovering Flight"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "In Hovering Flight" by Joyce Hinnefeld.

• Unaccustomed Earth: Book Review (February 23, 2009) book review "Unaccustomed Earth"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book of short stories, "Unaccustomed Earth," by Jhumpa Lahiri.

• Matrimony: Book Review (March 2, 2009) book review "Matrimony"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Matrimony" by Joshua Henson.

• Chocolat: Book Review (March 9, 2009) book review "Chocolat" Joanne Harris

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Chocolat" by Joanne Harris.

• The Islands of Divine Music: Book Review (March 16, 2009) book review "Islands of Divine Music"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Islands of Divine Music" by John Addiego.

• The Brightest Moon of the Century: Book Review (March 23, 2009) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Brightest Moon of the Century", by Christopher Meeks.

• Offshore: Book Review (April 6, 2009) book review "Offshore"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Offshore" by Penelope Fitzgerald.

• Buffalo Lockjaw: Book Review (April 13, 2009) book review "Buffalo Lockjaw"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Buffalo Lockjaw" by Greg Ames.

• Everyone Is Beautiful: Book Review (April 27, 2009) book review "Everyone Is Beautiful"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Everyone Is Beautiful" by Katherine Center.

• The School of Essential Ingredients: Book Review (May 4, 2009) book review "The School of Essential Ingredients"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The School of Essential Ingredients," by Erica Bauermeister.

• Follow Me: Book Review (May 11, 2009) book review "Follow Me"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Follow Me" by Joanna Scott.

• Christine Falls: Book Review (May 25, 2009) book review "Christine Falls"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Christine Falls," by Benjamin Black.

• The Silver Swan: Book Review (June 1, 2009) book review "The Silver Swan"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Silver Swan" by Benjamin Black.

• Last Night In Montreal: Book Review (June 8, 2009) book review "Last Night In Montreal"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Last Night In Montreal," by Emily St. John Mandel.

• The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher: Book Review (June 15, 2009) book review "The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Suspicions of Mr. Whicher," by Kate Summerscale.

• What the Dead Know: Book Review (June 22, 2009) book review "What the Dead Know"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "What the Dead Know" by Laura Lippman.

• Love Begins in Winter: Book Review (June 29, 2009) book review "Love Begins in Winter"

  Wendy Robards reviews "Love Begins in Winter," by Simon Van Booy

• Beach Trip: Book Review (July 6, 2009) book review "Beach Trip"

  Wendy Robards reviews "Beach Trip," by Cathy Holton.

• The Local News: Book Review (July 13, 2009) book review "The Local News"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Local News" by Miriam Gershow.

• Sea of Poppies: Book Review (July 20, 2009) book review "Sea of Poppies"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Sea of Poppies" by Amitav Ghosh.

• Finding Nouf: Book Review (July 27, 2009) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Finding Nouf" by Zoe Ferraris.

• Between Here and April: Book Review (August 3, 2009) book review "Between Here and April"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Between Here and April" by Deborah Copaken Kogan.

• The House on Fortune Street: Book Review (August 10, 2009) book review "The House on Fortune Street"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The House on Fortune Street," by Margot Livesey.

• Someone Know My Name: Book Review (August 17, 2009) book review "Someone Knows My Name"

  Wendy Robard reviews the book, "Someone Knows My Name," by Lawrence Hill.

• The Book of Unholy Mischief: Book Review (August 31, 2009) book review "The Book of Unholy Mischief"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Book of Unholy Mischief," by Elle Newmark.

• Tortilla Flat: Book Review (September 7, 2009) book review "Tortilla Flat"

  Wendy Robards reads and reviews John Steinbeck's book, "Tortilla Flat."

• Cleopatra's Daughter: Book Review (September 14, 2009) book review "Cleopatra's Daughter"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Cleopatra's Daughter" by Michelle Moran.

• The Help: Book Review (September 21, 2009) book review "The Help"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Help," by Kathryn Stockett.

• The Promised World: Book Review (September 28, 2009) book review "The Promised World"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Promised World," by Lisa Tucker.

• A Disobedient Girl: Book Review (October 5, 2009) book review "A Disobedient Girl"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "A Disobedient Girl," by Ru Freeman.

• A Bend in the River: Book Review (October 12, 2009) book review "A Bend In the River"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "A Bend in the River" by V.S. Naipaul.

• Goldengrove: Book Review (October 19, 2009) book review "Goldengrove"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Goldengrove" by Francine Prose.

• The Cradle: Book Review (October 26, 2009) book review "The Cradle"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Cradle" by Patrick Somerville.

• Love Medicine: Book Review (November 2, 2009) book review "Love Medicine"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Love Medicine," by Louise Erdrich.

• The Art of Racing in the Rain: Book Review (November 9, 2009) book review "The Art of Racing in the Rain"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Art of Racing in the Rain," by Garth Stein.

• Last Night in Twisted River : Book Review (November 16, 2009) book review "Last Night in Twisted River"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Last Night in Twisted River," by John Irving.

• Crossed Wires: Book Review (November 23, 2009) book review "Crossed Wires"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Crossed Wires," by Rosy Thornton.

• The Passport: Book Review (November 30, 2009) book review "The Passport"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Passport" by Herta Muller.

• Kristin Lavransdatter: The Wreath : Book Review (December 7, 2009) book review "Kristin Lavransdatter"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Kristin Lavransdatter", by Sigrid Undset.

• The Superstress Solution : Book Review (December 14, 2009) book review "The Superstress Solution"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Superstress Solution," by Roberta Lee, MD.

• Kristin Lavransdatter: The Wife: Book Review (December 21, 2009) book review "Kristin Lavransdatter"

  Wendy Robards reviews "Book Two of Kristin Lavransdatter: The Wife", by Sigrid Undset.

• Kristin Lavransdatter: The Cross : Book Review (December 28, 2009) book review "Kristin Lavransdatter:The Cross"

  Wendy Robards reviews the third book of Sigrid Undset's trilogy, "Kristin Lavransdatter: The Cross."

• Fire in the Blood : Book Review (January 4, 2010) book review "Fire in the Blood"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Fire in the Blood" by Irene Nemirovsky.

• Digging to America : Book Review (January 11, 2010) book review

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Digging To America" by Anne Tyler.

• Shanghai Girls : Book Review (January 18, 2010) book review "Shanghai Girls"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Shanghai Girls" by Lisa See.

• Sacred Hearts : Book Review (January 25, 2010) book review "Sacred Hearts"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Sacred Hearts" by Sarah Dunant.

• The Basic Book of Digital Photography: Book Review (February 1, 2010) book review "The Basic Book of Digital Photography

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Basic Book of Digital Photography," by Tom and Michele Grimm.

• The Last Surgeon: Book Review (February 8, 2010) book review "The Last Surgeon"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Last Surgeon" by Michael Palmer.

• Keeping the Feast: Book Review (February 15, 2010) book review "Keeping the Feast"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Keeping the Feast" by Paula Butturini.

• Let's Take The Long Way Home (February 22, 2010) book review "Let's Take the Long Way Home"

  Wendy Robards reviews an Advance Reader Copy of Gail Caldwell's book, "Let's Take The Long Way Home."

• Just Don't Fall: Book Review (March 1, 2010) book review "Just Don't Fall"

  Wendy Robards reviews the memoir "Just Don't Fall," by Josh Sundquist.

• Life Sentences: Book Review (March 8, 2010) book review "Life Sentences"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Life Sentences" by Laura Lippman.

• The Children's Book : Book Review (March 15, 2010) book review "The Children's Book"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Children's Book" by A. S. Byatt.

• Raven Stole the Moon: Book Review (March 22, 2010) book review "Raven Stole the Moon"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Raven Stole the Moon" by Garth Stein.

• An Irish Country Girl: Book Review (March 29, 2010) book review "A n Irish Country Girl"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "An Irish Country Girl," by Patrick Taylor.

• The Little Stranger : Book Review (April 5, 2010) book review "The Little Stranger"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Little Stranger," by Sarah Waters.

• Iron Lake: Book Review (April 12, 2010) book review "Iron Lake"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Iron Lake" by William Kent Krueger.

• Impatient With Desire: Book Review (April 19, 2010) book review "Impatient With Desire"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Impatient With Desire" by Gabrielle Burton.

• The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo : Book Review (April 26, 2010) book review "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" by Steig Larsson.

• Therese Raquin : Book Review (May 3, 2010) book review "Therese Raquin"

  Wendy Robards reviews the classic book, "Therese Raquin" by Emile Zola.

• The Threadbare Heart: Book Review (May 10, 2010) book review "The Threadbare Heart"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Threadbare Heart" by Jennie Nash.

• Brooklyn: Book Review (May 17, 2010) book review "Brooklyn"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Brooklyn" by Colm Toibin.

• The Lizard Cage : Book Review (May 24, 2010) book review "The Lizard Cage"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Lizard Cage" by Karen Connelly.

• Let the Great World Spin : Book Review (May 31, 2010) book review "Let the Great World Spin"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Let the Great World Spin" by Colum McCann.

• Tinkers: Book Review (June 7, 2010) book review "Tinkers"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Tinkers" by Paul Harding.

• My Name Is Mary Sutter : Book Review (June 14, 2010) book review "My Name Is Mary Sutter"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "My Name Is Mary Sutter," by Robin Oliveira.

• Cool Water: Book Review (June 21, 2010) book review "Cool Water"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel, "Cool Water", by Dianne Warren.

• The Marriage of True Minds: Book Review (June 28, 2010) book review "The Marriage of True Minds"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Marriage of True Minds" by Stephen Evans.

• In The Wake of the Boatman: Book Review (July 5, 2010) book review "In the Wake of the Boatman"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "In the Wake of the Boatman" by Jonathon Scott Fuqua.

• Whiter Than Snow: Book Review (July 12, 2010) book review "Whiter Than Snow"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Whiter Than Snow," by Sandra Dallas.

• Stay: Book Review (July 19, 2010) book review "Stay"

  Wendy Robards reviews Allie Larkin's debut novel, "Stay."

• 31 Bond Street: Book Review (July 26, 2010) book review "31 Bond Street"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "31 Bond Street" by Ellen Horan.

• Tomorrow River: Book Review (August 2, 2010) book review "Tomorrow River"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Tomorrow River" by Lesley Kagen.

• Cutting for Stone: Book Review (August 9, 2010) book review "Cutting for Stone"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Cutting for Stone" by Abraham Verghese.

• Wild Comfort: Book Review (August 16, 2010) book review "Wild Comfort"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Wild Comfort" by Kathleen Dean Moore.

• Earth and Ashes: Book Review (August 23, 2010) book review "Earth and Ashes"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Earth and Ashes" by Atiq Rahimi.

• Home Repair: Book Review (August 30, 2010) book review "Home Repair"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Home Repairs" by Liz Rosenberg.

• Simply From Scratch: Book Review (September 6, 2010) book review "Simply from Scratch"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Simply from Scratch," by Alicia Bessette.

• The Wake of Forgiveness: Book Review (September 20, 2010) book review "The Wake of Forgiveness"

  Wendy Robards reviews "The Wake of Forgiveness."

• Dangerous Neighbors: Book Review (September 27, 2010) book review "Dangerous Neighbors"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Dangerous Neighbors" by Beth Kephart.

• The Blessings of the Animals: Book Review (October 4, 2010) book review "The Blessings of the Animals"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Blessings of the Animals" by Katrina Kittle.

• Room: Book Review (October 11, 2010) book review "Room"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Room" by Emma Donoghue.

• Stranger Here Below: Book Review (October 18, 2010) book review "Stranger Here Below"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Stranger Here Below" by Joyce Hinnefeld.

• Hiroshima in the Morning: Book Review (October 25, 2010) book review "Hiroshima in the Morning"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Hiroshima in the Morning," by Rahna Reiko Rizzuto.

• Red Hook Road: Book Review (November 1, 2010) book review "Red Hook Road"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Red Hook Road," by Ayelet Waldman.

• Safe From The Sea: Book Review (November 8, 2010) book review "Safe From The Sea"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Safe From The Sea," by Peter Geye.

• Pukka: The Pup After Merle - Book Review (November 15, 2010) book review "Pukka: The Pup After Merle"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Pukka: The Pup After Merle" by Ted Kerasote.

• Love In Mid Air: Book Review (November 22, 2010) book review "Love In Mid Air"

  Wendy Robards reviews "Love in Mid Air," by Kim Wright.

• On Maggie's Watch: Book Review (November 29, 2010) book review "On Maggie's Watch"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "On Maggie's Watch" by Ann Wertz Garvin.

• Portrait of the Mother as a Young Woman: Book Review (December 6, 2010) book review "Friedrich Christian Delius"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Portrait of the Mother as a Young Woman," by Friedrich Christian Delius.

• The Distant Hours: Book Review (December 13, 2010) book review "The Distant Hours"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Distant Hours" by Kate Morton.

• Scent of the Missing: Book Review (December 20, 2010) book review "Scent of the Missing"

  Wend Robards reviews the nonfiction book "Scent of the Missing," by Susannah Charleson.

• Three Seconds: Book Review (December 27, 2010) book review "Three Seconds"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Three Seconds," by Anders Roslund and Borge Hellstrom.

• The Truth-Teller's Lie: Book Review (January 3, 2011) book review "The Truth-teller's Lie"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Truth-Teller's Lie" by Sophie Hannah.

• Stone in a Landslide: Book Review (January 10, 2011) book review "Stone in a Landslide"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Stone in a Landslide" by Maria Barbal.

• The Doctor and the Diva: Book Review (January 17, 2011) book review "The Doctor and the Diva"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Doctor and the Diva" by Adrienne McDonnell.

• The Weird Sisters: Book Review (January 24, 2011) book review "The Weird Sisters"

  Wendy Robards reviews "The Weird Sisters" by Eleanor Brown.

• Muslim Women Reformers: Book Review (January 31, 2011) book review "Muslim Women Reformers"

  Wendy Robards reviews "Muslim Women Reformers," by Ida Lichter.

• Bread Givers: Book Review (February 7, 2011) book review "Bread Givers"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Bread Givers," by Anzia Yezierska.

• Caribou Island: Book Review (February 14, 2011) book review "Caribou Island"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Caribou Island" by David Vann.

• Small Wars: Book Review (February 21, 2011) book review "Small Wars"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Small Wars" by Sadie Jones.

• The Last Brother: Book Review (February 28, 2011) book review "The Last Brother"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel, "The Last Brother," by Nathacha Appanah.

• The Postmistress: Book Review (March 7, 2011) book review "The Postmistress"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Postmistress" by Sarah Blake.

• Island Girl: Book Review (March 14, 2011) book review "Island Girl"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Island Girl" by Lynda Simmons.

• Emily and Einstein: Book Review (March 21, 2011) book review "Emily and Einstein"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Emily and Einstein," by Linda Francis Lee.

• Every Last One: Book Review (April 4, 2011) book review "Every Last One"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel, "Every Last One" by Anna Quindlen.

• The Fates Will Find Their Way: Book Review (April 11, 2011) book review "The Fates Will Find Their Way"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "The Fates Will Find Their Way" by Hannah Pittard.

• The Raising: Book Review (April 18, 2011) book review "The Raising"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Raising," by Laura Kasischke.

• The Provence Cure for the Brokenhearted: Book Review (May 2, 2011) book review "The Provence Cure for the Brokenheart

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Provence Cure for the Brokenhearted" by Bridget Asher.

• Galore: Book Review (May 9, 2011) book review "Galore"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Galore" by Michael Crummey.

• The Paperbark Shoe: Book Review (May 16, 2011) book review "The Paperbark Shoe"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The Paperbark Shoe," by Goldie Goldbloom.

• I'd Know You Anywhere: Book Review (May 23, 2011) book review "I'd Know You Anywhere"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "I'd Know You Anywhere," by Laura Lippman.

• The London Train: Book Review (May 30, 2011) book review "The London Train"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "The London Train," by Tessa Hadley.

• Secret Daughter: Book Review (June 6, 2011) book review "Secret Daughter"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Secret Daughter," by Shilpi Somaya Gowda.

• The Season of Second Chances: Book Review (June 13, 2011) book review "The Season of Second Chances"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Season of Second Chances" by Diane Meier.

• Unbroken: Book Review (June 20, 2011) book review "Unbroken"

  Wendy Robards reviews "Unbroken" by Laura Hillenbrand, a nonfiction book about Japanese prisoner of war Louie Zamperini.

• Down From Cascom Mountain: Book Review (June 27, 2011) book review "Down From Cascom Mountain"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Down From Cascom Mountain" by Ann Joslin Williams.

• The Boy in the Moon: Book Review (July 4, 2011) book review "The Boy in the Moon"

  Wendy Robards reviews the memoir "The Boy in the Moon" by Ian Brown.

• The Descent of Man: Book Review (July 11, 2011) book review "The Descent of Man"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel, "The Descent of Man" by Kevin Desinger.

• Anthropology of An American Girl: Book Review (July 18, 2011) book review "Anthropology of An American Girl"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Anthropology of An American Girl," by Hilary Thayer Hamann.

• The Tiger's Wife: Book Review (July 25, 2011) book review "The Tiger's Wife"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Tiger's Wife" by Tea Obreht.

• The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives: Book Review (August 1, 2011) book review "The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "The Secret Lives of Baba Segi's Wives," by Lola Shoneyin.

• Everything Beautiful Began After: Book Review (August 8, 2011) book review "Everything Beautiful Began After"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Everything Beautiful Began After, by Simon Van Booy.

• The Long Song: Book Review (August 15, 2011) book review "The Long Song"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Long Song," by Andrea Levy.

• Steinbeck: A Life in Letters: Book Review (August 22, 2011) book review "Steinbeck: A Life in Letters"

  Wendy Robards reviews "Steinbeck: A Life in Letters," edited by Elaine Steinbeck and Robert Wallsten.

• Mice: Book Review (August 29, 2011) book review "Mice"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Mice" by Gordon Reese.

• Darkness, My Old Friend: Book Review (September 5, 2011) book review "Darkness, My Old Friend"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book, "Darkness, My Old Friend" by Lisa Unger.

• Rules of Civility: Book Review (September 12, 2011) book review "Rules of Civility"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel, "Rules of Civility," by Amor Towles.

• Awakening: Book Review (September 19, 2011) book review "Awakening"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Awakening" by S.J. Bolton.

• Salvage the Bones: Book Review (September 26, 2011) book review "Salvage the Bones"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Salvage the Bones" by Jesmyn Ward.

• Touch and Go: Book Review (October 3, 2011) book review "Touch and Go"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Touch and Go" by Thad Nodine.

• Falling Together: Book Review (October 10, 2011) book review "Falling Together"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Falling Together" by Marisa de los Santos.

• You Are My Only: Book Review (October 17, 2011) book review "You Are My Only"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "You Are My Only," by Beth Kephart.

• State of Wonder: Book Review (October 24, 2011) book review "State of Wonder"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel, "State of Wonder" by Ann Patchett.

• The Marriage Artist: Book Review (October 31, 2011) book review "The Marriage Artist"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Marriage Artist," by Andrew Winer.

• Little America: Book Review (November 7, 2011) book review "Little America"

  Wendy Robards reviews the collection of short stories "Little America," by Diane Simmons.

• Schoolgirl: Book Review (November 14, 2011) book review "Schoolgirl"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novella "Schoolgirl," by Osamu Dazai.

• The Taste of Salt: Book Review (November 21, 2011) book review "The Taste of Salt"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "The Taste of Salt," by Martha Southgate.

• Tides of War: Book Review (November 28, 2011) book review "Tides of War"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "Tides of War" by Stella Tillyard.

• The Marriage Plot: Book Review (December 5, 2011) book review "The Marriage Plot"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Marriage Plot," by Jeffrey Eugenides.

• The Devil's Ribbon: Book Review (December 12, 2011) book review "The Devil's Ribbon"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "The Devil's Ribbon," by D. E. Meredith.

• Maman's Homesick Pie: Book Review (December 19, 2011) book review "Maman's Homesick Pie"

  Wendy Robards reviews Donia Bijan's memoir, "Maman's Homesick Pie."

• The Night Circus: Book Review (December 26, 2011) book review "The Night Circus"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "The Night Circus" by Erin Morgenstern.

• Midsummer Night in the Workhouse- Stories: Book Review (January 2, 2012) book review "Midsummer Night in the Workhouse"

  Wendy Robards reviews Diana Athill's remarkable collection of short stories, "Midsummer Night in the Workhouse."

• We the Animals: Book Review (January 9, 2012) book review "We the Animals"

  Wendy Robards reviews Justin Torres' debut novel about domestic violence and individual identity, "We the Animals."

• The Street Sweeper: Book Review (January 16, 2012) book review "The Street Sweeper"

  Wendy Robards reviews Eliot Perlman's novel about connected lives and racial hatred, "The Street Sweeper."

• The Artist of Disappearance: Book Review (January 23, 2012) book review "The Artist of Disappearance"

  Wendy Robards reviews the collection of novellas set in India, "The Artist of Disappearance" by Anita Desai.

• Swamplandia! : Book Review (January 30, 2012) book review "Swamplandia!"

  Wendy Robards reviews the book "Swamplandia!" by Karen Russell. Alligator wrestling? Ghosts? You may find them in this book.

• The Invisible Ones: Book Review (February 6, 2012) book review "The Invisible Ones"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel, "The Invisible Ones," by Stef Penney, about an investigation into the disappearance of a Romany girl in England.

• Running the Rift: Book Review (February 13, 2012) book review "Running the Rift"

  A novel informed by the Rwandan Genocide, "Running the Rift," by Naomi Benaron, gets high approval in Wendy Robards' review.

• Come In and Cover Me: Book Review (February 20, 2012) book review "Come In and C#over Me"

  Wendy Robards reviews Gin Phillips' second novel, "Come In and Cover Me," a story of grief and the enigmas of archeology.

• No Mark Upon Her: Book Review (February 27, 2012) book review "No Mark Upon Her"

  An Olympic rower hopeful is found dead. Wendy Robards reviews the mystery, "No Mark Upon Her," by Deborah Crombie.

• Blue Monday: Book Review (March 5, 2012) book review "Blue Monday"

  Nicci French's new series of psychological thrillers begins with "Blue Monday."

• Half-Blood Blues: Book Review (March 12, 2012) book review "Half-Blood Blues"

  Esi Edugyan places her characters in the volatile world of jazz in 1939 in the novel, "Half-Blood Blues."

• 11/22/63 : Book Review (March 19, 2012) book review "11/22/63"

  Stephen King tackles one of the most infamous days in the Twentieth Century in his weighty novel about time travel and the assassination of JFK.

• A Good American: Book Review (March 26, 2012) book review "A Good American"

  Author Alex George explores how we define our families, and how they shape us in his debut novel, "A Good American."

• The Gods of Gotham: Book Review (April 2, 2012) book review "The Gods of Gotham"

  New York City, 1845 -- the city must build a police force to stop the rise in crime, and a mysterious child-killer. Wendy Robards reviews Lyndsay Faye's novel, "The Gods of Gotham."

• One More Year: Book Review (April 9, 2012) book review "One More Year"

  The immigrant experiences of hope, struggle, and the search for a better life color the stories of Sana Krasikov in her book "One More Year."

• Birds of A Lesser Paradise: Book Review (April 16, 2012) book review "Birds of a Lesser Paradise"

  "We cannot detach ourselves from our biology or from the world in which we live." High praise for "Birds of a Lesser Paradise" by Megan Mayhew Bergman.

• Let's Pretend This Never Happened: Book Review (April 23, 2012) book review "Let's Pretend This Never Happened"

  Who wouldn't love to read the memoirs of a woman who can't resist dressing up dead weasels?

• The Snow Child: Book Review (April 30, 2012) book review "The Snow Child"

  A Russian fairy tale forms the core of Eowyn Ivey's novel, "The Snow Child," a story of grief and recovery.

• A Beautiful Place To Die: Book Review (May 14, 2012) book review "A Beautiful Place To Die"

  Set in apartheid South Africa, Malla Nunn's mystery novel "A Beautiful Place To Die" examines the injustice of the laws that governed racial discrimination, unveiled by a murder investigation.

• The Submission: Book Review (May 21, 2012) book review "The Submission"

  Two years after the destruction of the World Trade Center towers, a jury is selected to choose a memorial design. Amy Waldman's provocative novel "The Submission" examines our prejudices and fears surrounding one of the most traumatic events in American history.

• The Lola Quartet: Book Review (May 28, 2012) book review "The Lola Quartet"

  Filled with complex characters with secrets from their pasts, Emily St. John Mandel's third novel, "The Lola Quartet," revolves around the simple, yet compelling, concept that one decision can have lasting echoes far into the future.

• Buddha in the Attic: Book Review (June 4, 2012) book review "Buddha in the Attic"

  Julie Otsuka tells a collective story about the "Picture Brides" who came from Japan and Korea to marry men in the United States in the early 20th Century.

• Small Damages: Book Review (June 11, 2012) book review "Small Damages"

  A young pregnant woman is sent to Spain to give up her baby in Beth Kephart's novel "Small Damages."

• The Elephant Keeper: Book Review (June 18, 2012) book review "The Elephant Keeper"

  A young man becomes the caretaker and friend of two starving elephants, saving their lives.

• Make It Stay: Book Review (June 25, 2012) book review "Make It Stay"

  The nature of marriage and how outside relationships affect it is explored in Joan Frank's novel "Make It Stay."

• The Memory of Love: Book Review (July 2, 2012) book review "The Memory of Love"

  Set in the war-damaged country of Sierra Leone, "The Memory of Love" examines the interwoven tales of three men trying to rebuild their lives.

• With My Body: Book Review (July 9, 2012) book review "With My Body"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "With My Body" by Nikki Gemmell.

• The Shoemaker's Wife: Book Review (July 16, 2012) book review "The Shoemaker's Wife"

  From a quiet village in the Italian Alps to the bustle of New York City, Adriana Trigiani follows two lovers and their lives in her novel, "The Shoemaker's Wife."

• The Absolutist: Book Review (July 23, 2012) book review "The Absolutist"

  Set against the backdrop of World War I, John Boyle's novel "The Absolutist" explores the morality of war and the lives of two men who fought.

• The Emperor of Lies: Book Review (July 30, 2012) book review "The Emperor of Lies"

  Steve Sem-Sandberg's massive historical novel "The Emperor of Lies" examines the lives of Jewish people in the ghetto of Lodz.

• The Personal History of Rachel DuPree: Book Review (August 6, 2012) book review "The Personal History of Rachel DuPree

  A woman who marries a "Buffalo Soldier" in a one-year deal to gain homesteading land faces plainsland difficulties her city life never imagined in this novel of hardship and fulfillment by Ann Weisgarber.

• Gold: Book Review (August 13, 2012) book review "Gold"

  Chris Cleave brings his flawed and struggling characters together at the Olympics speed cycling event in his latest novel, "Gold."

• The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry: Book Review (August 20, 2012) book review "The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry

  Wendy Robards awards a five-star rating to Rachel Joyce for her novel, "The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry."

• Into the Darkest Corner: Book Review (August 27, 2012) book review "Into the Darkest Corner"

  Elizabeth Haynes shows just how easy it is for a woman to get caught up in a domestic violence situation in her novel, "Into the Darkest Corner."

• And When She Was Good: Book Review (September 3, 2012) book review "And When She Was Good"

  Laura Lippman draws the reader into the world of prostitution, murder, and -- motherhood -- in her novel, "And When She Was Good."

• The World We Found: Book Review (September 10, 2012) book review "The World We Found"

  Three Indian women find their lives changed, and their reality far from the dreams they had when they were young friends together in this novel by Thrity Umrigar.

• The Plague of Doves: Book Review (September 17, 2012) book review "The Plague of Doves"

  An unsolved murder from the early part of the twentieth century is the center of Louise Erdrich's stunning novel "The Plague of Doves."

• The Murder of Halland: Book Review (September 24, 2012) book review "The Murder of Halland"

  Wendy Robards reviews the crime genre-twisting novel "The Murder of Halland" by Pia Juul.

• Home: Book Review (October 1, 2012) book review "Home"

  A soldier returns home after service in the Korean War, emotionally scarred, in this novel "Home" by Toni Morrison.

• Fall of Giants: Book Review (October 8, 2012) book review "Fall of Giants"

  Wendy Robards reviews the first book in Ken Follett's "Century Trilogy" -- "Fall of Giants."

• The Light Between Oceans: Book Review (October 15, 2012) book review "The Light Between Oceans"

  A couple recovering from tragedy find a baby washed up in a boat. In keeping the child as their own, how will they work their way through the moral obligation to find the child's mother? "The Light Between Oceans" is M.L. Stedman's debut novel.

• The Other Woman: Book Review (October 22, 2012) book review "The Other Woman"

  Woman are dying, murdered by what appears to be a serial killer stalking the streets of Boston ... Hank Phillippi Ryan's novel "The Other Woman" takes the reader on a roller-coaster ride of tension and mystery.

• Silver Sparrow: Book Review (October 29, 2012) book review "Silver Sparrow"

  Two daughters of a bigamist compete for their father's love in this novel "Silver Sparrow," by Tayari Jones.

• The Lighthouse Road: Book Review (November 5, 2012) book review "The Lighthouse Road"

  Wendy Robards reviews the novel "The Lighthouse Road," by Peter Geye.

• Flight Behavior: Book Review (November 12, 2012) book review "Flight Behavior"

  Barbara Kingsolver's newest novel, Flight Behavior," explores the impact of global warming and the divide between science and religion.

• The Orphan Master's Son: Book Review (November 26, 2012) book review "The Orphan Master's Son"

  Author Adam Johnson takes the reader behind the secrecy of North Korea in his novel "The Orphan Master's Son."

• The Dangers of Proximal Alphabets: Book Review (December 3, 2012) book review "The Dangers of Proximal Alphabets"

  Wendy Robards reviews Kathleen Alcott's debut novel of childhood, memory, and loss: "The Dangers of Proximal Alphabets."

• Sea of Ink: Book Review (December 10, 2012) book review "Sea of Ink"

  The life of Zhu Da, the Prince of Yiyang, the influential Chinese poet and painter, is at the heart of this poetic novella by Richard Weihe.

• Love Slave: Book Review (December 17, 2012) book review "Love Slave"

  Jennifer Spiegel's novel "Love Slave" is a funny yet surprisingly poignant journey into the heart of a young woman looking for real love in New York City.

• The Invisible Bridge: Book Review (December 24, 2012) book review "The Invisible Bridge"

  The story of Hungarian Jews during WW II, Julie Orringer's novel "The Invisible Bridge" is a searing, sweeping, and ultimately triumphant story about love, war, survival and the endurance of the human spirit.

• The Lace Reader: Book Review (December 31, 2012) book review "The Lace Reader"

  A woman travels across the country to New England to investigate her great-aunt's disappearance -- and finds clues to her own shattered past in Brunonia Barry's debut novel, "The Lace Reader."

• The Stockholm Octavo: Book Review (January 7, 2013) book review "The Stockholm Octavo"

  A mysterious vision experienced by a strange woman leads Emil Larsson into a turmoil of murder and political intrigue in Karen Engelman's novel "The Stockholm Octavo."

• The Secret Keeper: Book Review (January 14, 2013) book review "The Secret Keeper"

  Laurel, a well-known English actress living in London, wants to uncover the horrific secret her mother has kept all these years ... and must do so before her mother dies, in this novel by Kate Morton, "The Secret Keeper."

• All Our Worldly Goods: Book Review (January 21, 2013) book review "All Our Worldly Goods"

  In "All Our Worldly Goods," published five years after her death at the hands of Nazis, Irene Nemirovsky writes of the heart-wrenching uncertainties of life during wartime.

• Wanderers: Book Review (January 28, 2013) book review "Wanderers"

  Edward Belfar's collection of stories, "Wanderers," describes the ethical and personal trials of men and women around the world.

• The Death of Bees: Book Review (February 4, 2013) book review "The Death of Bees"

  Lisa O'Donnell's novel, "The Death of Bees," leads the reader on a dark and mysterious path to drugs and a backyard burial.

• The Colour of Milk: Book Review (February 11, 2013) book review "The Colour of Milk"

  "...a penetrating and compelling look into the life of one young girl during a time in history when women were considered property..." Nell Leyshon's novel, "The Colour of Milk."

• White Dog Fell from the Sky: Book Review (February 18, 2013) book review "White Dog Fell from the Sky"

  Set in apartheid South Africa, Eleanor Morse's brilliant and heartbreaking novel, "White Dog Fell from the Sky," explores the ways in which lives become entangled with others in the face of tragedy and loss.

• Frozen: Book Review (February 25, 2013) book review "Frozen"

  Wendy Robards reviews Kate Watterson's fast-paced thriller "Frozen."

• The Map of Time: Book Review (March 4, 2013) book review "The Map Of Time"

  Felix J. Palma takes the reader on an intricate time-travelogue in the Victorian Era in his novel, "The Map of Time."

• The Monsters of Templeton: Book Review (March 11, 2013) book review "The Monsters of Templeton"

  Lauren Groff's riveting first novel, "The Monsters of Templeton," explores identity, the irresistible pull of our pasts, and the history of a strange small town in New York.

• The Mussel Feast: Book Review (March 18, 2013) book review "The Mussel Feast"

  Birgit Vanderbeke's darkly comic novella, "The Mussel Feast," observes how revolutions begin and how change unfolds in the face of tyranny.

• Why Can't I Be You: Book Review (March 25, 2013) book review "Why Can't I Be You"

  Allie Larkin's second novel, "Why Can't I Be You," is filled with wonderful characters who remind us of the awkwardness of growing up and the necessity of friendship.

• The End Of The Point: Book Review (April 8, 2013) book review "The End of the Point"

  Elizabeth Graver's novel "The End Of The Point" spans fifty years of a family's growth and trials, and their love for their summer home Ashaunt.

• Behind the Beautiful Forevers : Book Review (April 15, 2013) book review "Behind the Beautiful Forevers"

  "Behind the Beautiful Forevers" is a true story: Author Katherine Boo spent four years following the individual lives of people living in the Annawadi settlement -- an Indian slum which sits near the Mumbai airport.

• Gone Girl: Book Review (April 22, 2013) book review "Gone Girl"

  A woman is missing, blood evidence is found -- did her husband kill her? Gillian Flynn's novel "Gone Girl" leads the reader through a smart psychological thriller.

• The Paradise Guest House: Book Review (April 29, 2013) book review "The Paradise Guest House"

  Set against the horrific backdrop of the 2002 Bali suicide bombing, Ellen Sussman's novel "The Paradise Guest House" explores the difficult road through grief to acceptance.

• The Movement of Stars: Book Review (May 6, 2013) book review "The Movement of Stars"

  Astronomy, racism and the suffragette movement color the background of Amy Brill's novel, "The Movement of Stars."

• All You Could Ask For: Book Review (May 13, 2013) book review "All You Could Ask For"

  Mike Greenberg explores friendship within the context of the unexpected events which life throws in our path in his novel about three women, "All You Could Ask For."

• The Round House: Book Review (May 20, 2013) book review "The Round House"

  Louise Erdrich's newest novel, "The Round House," exposes the cracks within the Native American justice system, and examines the strong familial ties and loyalties found in Native culture.

• And The Mountains Echoed: Book Review (May 27, 2013) book review "And The Mountains Echoed"

  Khaled Hosseini explores the idea that a simple choice will echo across time in his novel, "And the Mountains Echoed."

• Where'd You Go, Bernadette: Book Review (June 3, 2013) book review "Where'd You Go, Bernadette"

  A mother disappears from an elite community in Maria Semple's humorous story, "Where'd You Go, Bernadette."

• The Other Typist: Book Review (June 10, 2013) book review "The Other Typist"

  Suzanne Rindell captures the mood and feel of the mid-1920s spectacularly with wonderful descriptions of New York speakeasies in her debut novel, "The Other Typist."

• Tuesday's Gone: Book Review (June 17, 2013) book review "Tuesday's Gone"

  "Tuesday's Gone," Nicci French's mystery continues the character Frieda Klein, who still carries the guilt of a young woman's murder and the nagging suspicion that the killer still walks free.

• River of Dust: Book Review (June 24, 2013) book review "River of Dust"

  A missionary and his wife come to China to save the unfaithful, but what they discover is an unforgiving land of dust and famine, in this novel "River of Dust" by Virginia Pye.

• A Hundred Summers: Book Review (July 1, 2013) Book Review: A Hundred Summers

  Dark secrets begin to surface, while a history-making hurricane barrels up the coast of Rhode Island and threatens to change lives forever in Beatriz Williams' novel "A Hundred Summers."

• Still Midnight: Book Review (July 8, 2013) book review "Still Midnight"

  Denise Mina introduces Detective Inspector Alex Morrow in the first of a trilogy of murder mysteries, "Still Midnight."

• The Dinner: Book Review (July 15, 2013) book review "The Dinner"

  A literary, psychological thriller full of dark secrets and dysfunctional husband-wife relationships, Herman Koch's "The Dinner" delves into the morality of protecting one's children and one's reputation.

• The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls: Book Review (July 22, 2013) Book Review: The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls

  A young girl commits a terrible mistake and is expelled from her family in Anton DiSclafani's debut novel, "The Yonahlossee Riding Camp for Girls."

• Mr. Darwin's Gardener: Book Review (August 5, 2013) book review "Mr. Darwin's Gardener"

  "Mr. Darwin's Gardener," by Kristina Carlson, explores faith, religion, and life through peoples' grief and loss, and through the hope that heals them.

• The Penelopiad: Book Review (August 12, 2013) book review "The Penelopiad"

  Margaret Atwood gives a different take on "The Odyssey" in this novelette, "The Penelopiad," told from the point of view of Odysseus' wife.

• The End of the Wasp Season: Book Review (August 19, 2013) book review "The End of the Wasp Season"

  Detective Alex Morrow must defy her boss and solve a brutal murder -- one in which a childhood friend is a suspect. Book Two of the Alex Morrow trilogy by Denise Mina.

• This Is Paradise: Book Review (August 26, 2013) book review "This Is Paradise"

  Kristiana Kahakauwila's "This is Paradise" is a haunting, beautifully crafted collection of stories from a penetrating and talented new voice in fiction.

• Race Across the Sky: Book Review (September 2, 2013) book review "Race Across the Sky"

  Derek Sherman's debut novel, "Race Across the Sky," explores the limits of human endurance both physically and emotionally.

• Save Yourself: Book Review (September 9, 2013) book review "Save Yourself"

  Kelly Braffet dares to go to disturbing places, digging deep inside the pathos of her characters in her novel, "Save Yourself."

• Life After Life: Book Review (September 16, 2013) book review "Life After Life"

  Kate Atkinson's novel "Life After Life" is flawless, darkly comic, and filled with a poignant insight into what makes us human.

• River Thieves: Book Review (September 23, 2013) book review "River Thieves"

  Michael Crummey has crafted a novel rich in the history of Newfoundland: River Thieves, a story of the loss of hunting and fishing grounds of the Beothuk Indians.

• Handling the Truth with Beth Kephart (September 30, 2013) book review "Handling the Truth"

  Author Beth Kephart presents a workshop about the writing of memoir, and shares her knowledge in her book, "Handling the Truth."

• The Orchardist: Book Review (October 28, 2013) book review "The Orchardist"

  A solitary orchardist in the Pacific Northwest, grieving for his sister's death, finds two traumatized young girls on his property in Amanda Coplin's novel, "The Orchardist."

• The Last Winter of Dani Lancing: Book Review (November 4, 2013) book review "The Last Winter of Dani Lancing"

  P. D. Viner examines the weight of grief and its destruction of a family in the wake of a child's death, in this debut novel, "The Last Winter of Dani Lancing."

• What the Dog Knows: Book Review (November 11, 2013) book review "What the Dog Knows"

  Part memoir and part science, "What the Dog Knows" is Cat Warren's journey with a bigger-than-life dog as they go from novices to professionals in the world of the working K9.

• Chasing the King of Hearts: Book Review (November 25, 2013) book review "Chasing the King of Hearts"

  Hanna Krall's novella, "Chasing the King of Hearts" is a story of love and survival during the horror of the Holocaust.

• Quiet Dell: Book Review (December 2, 2013) book review "Quiet Dell"

  Jayne Anne Phillips brings back to light the haunting story of serial killer Harry Powers in her novel, "Quiet Dell."

• Adé: Book Review (December 9, 2013) book review "Ade"

  Violence, political upheaval, and illness are the reality which begins to intrude on Farida's dreams of life in Africa, and she must wrestle with love and make a heart-wrenching decision in Rebecca Walker's debut novel, Adé.

• After Her: Book Review (December 16, 2013) book review "After Her"

  The investigation of a serial killer near Mt. Tamalpais threatens and shapes the life of a thirteen-year-old girl in Joyce Maynard's novel, "After Her."

• Enon: Book Review (December 23, 2013) book review "Enon"

  Paul Harding offers deep insight into the passage of time, loss, and the importance of family in this highly literary work of fiction, "Enon."

• Pretty in Patchwork Holidays: Book Review (December 30, 2013) book review "Pretty in Patchwork Holidays"

  "Pretty in Patchwork" is a book of patchwork sewing projects to last the whole new year.

• Elegy for April: Book Review (January 6, 2014) book review "Elegy for April"

  Benjamin Black's third novel in his Quirke series, "Elegy for April," sets the disappearance of his daughter's friend in Dublin, as Quirke himself struggles with his alcoholism.

• Vengeance: Book Review (January 13, 2014) book review "Vengeance"

  A convoluted and complex relationship between characters fuels this fifth installation in the Quirke mystery series written by John Banfield.

• Holy Orders: Book Review (January 20, 2014) book review "Holy Orders"

  "Holy Orders" is perhaps Benjamin Black's most darkly psychological novel to date in his acclaimed Quirke series, haunting and resonating with a sense of doom and catastrophe.

• Tracks: Book Review (January 27, 2014) book review "Tracks"

  "Tracks" is a deeply personal journey into Genni Gunn's childhood memories -- memories triggered by travel.

• The Watchman: Book Review (February 3, 2014) book review "The Watchman"

  The first of Robert Crais's Joe Pike novels, "The Watchman," is fast-paced, edge of your seat entertainment.

• Perfect: Book Review (February 17, 2014) book review "Perfect"

  Eleven-year-old Byron and his sister and mother are driving through a summer fog. Something happens that changes everything, and only Byron can make it all okay again. "Perfect" is Rachel Joyce's second novel.

• The First Rule: Book Review (February 24, 2014) book review "The First Rule"

  The murders of a man and his family bring a different style of justice in this second Joe Pike novel by Robert Crais.

• The Sentry: Book Review (March 3, 2014) book review "The Sentry"

  "The Sentry" is Robert Crais at his best -- a fast paced, twisty plot with lots of violent interactions.

• Iron House: Book Review (March 10, 2014) book review "Iron House"

  Deep secrets must be uncovered to solve a mystery and give two brothers a second chance in John Hart's gripping novel, "Iron House."

• The Bat: Book Review (March 17, 2014) book review "The Bat"

  "The Bat" is the first novel in the Harry Hole mystery series by Jo Nesbo. Set in Australia, it is an interesting and twisty introduction to the character Harry Hole.

• Burial Rites: Book Review (March 24, 2014) book review "Burial Rites"

  Hannah Kent bases her debut novel, "Burial Rites," on the true story of Iceland's execution of a woman accused of a brutal murder.

• Is This Tomorrow: Book Review (March 31, 2014) book review "Is This Tomorrow"

  Caroline Leavitt weaves a haunting tale of literary suspense in her novel about a missing child, "Is This Tomorrow."

• Summer in the South: Book Review (April 14, 2014) book review "Summer in the South"

  Cathy Holton's "Summer in the South," a novel about a young woman caught in a dark mystery from the past, explores Southern culture and untangling gossip from fact.

• TransAtlantic: Book Review (April 28, 2014) book review "TransAtlantic"

  Colum McCann never loses his way in "TransAtlantic," a novel about history and the men and women who played such a pivotal role in it.

• Still Life with Bread Crumbs: Book Review (May 5, 2014) book review "Still Life with Bread Crumbs"

  Aging, rediscovery, love, and friendship form the themes in Anna Quindlen's novel "Still Life with Bread Crumbs."

• Tapestry of Fortunes: Book Review (May 12, 2014) book review "Tapestry of Fortunes"

  "Tapestry of Fortunes," a novel by Elizabeth Berg, explores female friendship and healing from loss.

• The Secret Life of Violet Grant: Book Review (May 19, 2014) book review "The Secret Life of Violet Grant"

  A fast-paced plot, engaging characters and plenty of heat in the romance department make Beatriz Williams' novel, "The Secret Life of Violet Grant" a compelling read.

• The Bear: Book Review (June 2, 2014) book review "The Bear"

  Two small children survive a bear attack in this gripping novel, "The Bear" by Claire Cameron.

• Saving Fish From Drowning: Book Review (June 23, 2014) book review "Saving Fish From Drowning"

  With lavish detail and perfect words, Amy Tan explores the consequences of choices and intention of tourists gone astray in Myanmar in this book, "Saving Fish from Drowning."

• Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation for Animals: Book Review (June 30, 2014) book review "Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation f

  Susan Davis' book, "Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation for Animals" proves to be a valuable resource for pet owners, especially those who have working dogs.

• Whiskey Beach: Book Review (July 21, 2014) book review "Whiskey Beach"

  Nora Roberts treats the reader to a chunkster book full of mystery, suspense, and romance in "Whiskey Beach."

• The Invention of Wings: Book Review (July 28, 2014) book review "The Invention of Wings"

  "The Invention of Wings," written by Sue Monk Kidd, is a rich novel that reminds the reader of the often painful road to freedom for blacks and women.

• Byrd: Book Review (August 4, 2014) book review "Byrd"

  Kim Church's insight into the human psyche, her understanding of the struggle to make sense of past mistakes and difficult choices, is deeply provocative in her debut novel, "Byrd."

• The Painted Veil: Book Review (August 11, 2014) book review "The Painted Veil"

  A classic literary work by W. Somerset Maugham, "The Painted Veil" examines personal growth in the midst of trial and betrayal.

• All Our Names: Audiobook Review (August 18, 2014) book review "All Our Names"

  Dinaw Mengestu's novel "All Our Names" takes the reader into the slums of Kampala and into the hearts of men who refuse to accept tyranny, even when it means they may lose everything.

• 2 A.M. at the Cat's Pajamas: Book Review (August 25, 2014) book review "2 A.M. at the Cat's Pajamas"

  Marie-Helene Bertino has written a charming debut novel about bad luck, human kindness, and the dazzling lure of possibility: "2 A.M. at the Cat's Pajama's."

• In The Country of Last Things: Book Review (September 1, 2014) book review "In The Country of Last Things"

  In a city of unspeakable destruction and horror, things disappear daily along with memories, in Paul Auster's novel, "In the Country of Last Things."

• Orphan Train: Book Review (September 22, 2014) book review "Orphan Train"

  In the 1920s, children were removed from New York City and relocated to settlements in the West. In her novel "Orphan Train," Christina Baker Kline explores this practice and its consequences.

• The Farm: Book Review (September 29, 2014) book review "The Farm"

  Tom Rob Smith's novel of murder, conspiracy, and the quest to uncover the truth, "The Farm" weaves a convoluted story around a woman alleged to be insane.

• The High Divide: Book Review (October 6, 2014) book review "The High Divide"

  Exploring the themes of regret and redemption against the historical background of the Indian Wars, Lin Enger has penned a truly American novel in his book "The High Divide."

• The Translator: Book Review (October 13, 2014) book review "The Translator"

  Leila Aboulela transports the reader to another culture in her novel, "The Translator."

• Alentejo Blue: Book Review (October 20, 2014) book review "Alentejo Blue"

  Monica Ali's novella, "Alentejo Blue," adeptly explores the lives and conflicts of characters in a small town in the Alentejo region of Portugal.

• A Sudden Light: Book Review (October 27, 2014) book review "A Sudden Light"

  In his novel "A Sudden Light," Garth Stein has written a family saga that fully immerses the reader in the Pacific Northwest's timber industry.

• Secrets of Eden: Book Review (November 10, 2014) book review "Secrets of Eden"

  Chris Bohjalian explores the aftermath of domestic violence, betrayal, and the consequences of secrets in his novel, "Secrets of Eden."

• Sharp Objects: Book Review (November 24, 2014) book review "Sharp Objects"

  Gillian Flynn's debut novel "Sharp Objects" is a dark psychological thriller -- a good introduction to Flynn's skill as a writer.

• Station Eleven: Book Review (December 8, 2014) book review"Station Eleven"

  Emily St. John Mandel's novel, "Station Eleven" examines the idea of connectedness between individuals, the importance of art and literature in one's life, faith, and the appreciation of the things we take for granted.

• The Elegance of the Hedgehog: Book Review (December 22, 2014) book review "The Elegance of the Hedgehog"

  In her novel, "The Elegance of the Hedgehog," Muriel Barbery has written an exceptional story about appearance, class, beauty, and the search for meaning in one's life.

• All The Light We Cannot See: Book Review (January 5, 2015) book review"All The Light We Cannot See"

  "All The Light We Cannot See," by Anthony Doerr, is a magical, searing novel about war, fear, radio, and the resilience of the human heart.

• The Narrow Road to the Deep North: Book Review (January 26, 2015) book review "The Narrow Road to the Deep North"

  A brutal novel, and not for the faint of heart, "The Narrow Road to the Deep North" by Richard Flanagan explores the violence and suffering of POWs and looks deeply into the strength of the human spirit.

• The Dog Stars: Book Review (February 16, 2015) book review "The Dog Stars"

  Peter Heller's astute observations of nature and his poetic introspection into his characters elevate this bookThe Dog Stars," to a thoughtful, heartbreaking literary work.

• The Family Handyman Complete Do-It-Yourself Manual: Review (February 23, 2015) book review "The Family Handyman Complete Do-It-Yourself"

  An updated version of the classic DIY manual from the editors of The Family Handyman.

• Hush Hush: Book Review (March 2, 2015) book review "Hush Hush"

  The character Tess Monaghan returns in "Hush Hush" by Laura Lippman, as a new parent drawn into a disturbing case of a murder and a manipulative mother.

• The Last Good Paradise: Book Review (March 9, 2015) book review "The Last Good Paradise"

  Tatjana Soli's newest novel, "The Last Good Paradise," explores the idea of failed dreams, and the search for an ever more illusive paradise.

• We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves: Book Review (March 16, 2015) book review "We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves"

  The definition of family has changed and evolved through the years, and Karen Joy Fowler's latest novel, "We Are All Completely Beside Ourselves," puts an extra twist on that definition.

• Principles of Navigation: Book Review (March 23, 2015) book review "Principles of Navigation"

  Lynn Sloan's first novel, "Principles of Navigation," is a moving portrayal of a marriage unraveling.

• The Sweet Relief of Missing Children: Book Review (April 20, 2015) book review " The Sweet Relief of Missing Children"

  "The Sweet Relief of Missing Children" by Sarah Braunstein is a gritty, raw novel that explores the darker side of human nature.

• The Girl She Used To Be: Book Review (April 27, 2015) book review " The Girl She Used To Be"

  David Cristofano's debut novel, "The Girl She Used To Be," is a fast-paced, compelling look at identity, and our ability to trust and love after tragedy.

• In the Time of the Feast of Flowers: Book Review (May 11, 2015) book review "In the Time of the Feast of Flowers"

  Tina Egnoski's award winning novella, "In the Time of the Feast of Flowers," is a sensitive coming-of-age story about growing up during the progressive years of the 1970s.

• The Girl on the Train: Book Review (May 25, 2015) book review "The Girl on the Train"

  Paula Hawkins is adept at developing her characters and keeping the reader guessing in her psychological thriller "The Girl on the Train."

• The Master Butchers Singing Club: Book Review (June 1, 2015) book review "The Master Butchers Singing Club"

  "The Master Butchers Singing Club," by Louise Erdrich, follows a German immigrant into North Dakota -- a book written with poignancy and humor, meticulous detail and vivid imagery.

• Making Toast: Book Review (June 8, 2015) book review "Making Toast"

  "Making Toast" is Roger Rosenblatt's memoir of the weeks and months following his daughter's unexpected death, the grief, and the the depth of love for family.

• In Wilderness: Book Review (June 15, 2015) book review "In Wilderness"

  "In Wilderness," by Diane Thomas, is a psychological thriller about obsession, desire, and the healing powers of nature.

• Good Kings Bad Kings: Book Review (June 22, 2015) book review "Good Kings Bad Kings"

  Susan Nussbaum's novel, "Good Kings Bad Kings" gives voice to people who live and work in an institution for teens with disabilities.

• Jamrach's Menagerie: Book Review (June 29, 2015) book review "Jamrach's Menagerie"

  Carol Birch brings to life the glory, pain, and terror found on the whaling ships in the late nineteenth century in her novel, "Jamrach's Menagerie."

• Other Voices, Other Rooms: Book Review (July 6, 2015) book review "Other Voices, Other Rooms"

  Truman Capote's first novel, "Other Voices, Other Rooms," is an intense and supernatural exploration into the mind of a young boy sent to live with a father he has never before met.

• Alias Grace: Book Review (July 13, 2015) book review "Alias Grace"

  Margaret Atwood once again demonstrates her ability to create memorable characters and weave a story which enthralls in her novel, "Alias Grace," about the conviction of murderess Grace Marks in 1843.

Short

• Evolution (August 28, 2004) short

  From the first moment two sets of eyes meet and a romance is kindled, it begins to grow. A lover's kiss sparks Frannie's memory, isolated moments in time telling the story of love's evolution, through times both good and bad.

• Winter Thaw (September 11, 2004) short

  The winning entry from the "Write Fiction Like Cheryl" contest. A winter's day is the setting for a secret admirer, an old friend, a sweet romance, and a touch of poetry.

• Seduction 01 (November 20, 2004) short

  Naomi Langer is running into problems in her classes, but her professor is very understanding. Very friendly. Very passionate. But a spur-of-the-moment tryst that should have provided Naomi with a quick answer gives her nothing but questions. Runner up in the Piker Press Ghost Story Contest. Part 1 of 2.

• Seduction 02 (November 27, 2004) short

  What was supposed to be a simple discussion about her performance in class has become an issue of far less ethical "performances" of another kind entirely. But this isn't a case of trying to earn an easy A; there's something almost supernatural about the way Naomi can't resist her professor's advances... Part 2 of 2.

• Bananas, Anyone? (January 15, 2007) food

  Cold winter night? Whip up a batch of Bananas Foster and set fire to dessert to warm up your kitchen!

• Filling Spaces (April 7, 2008) short fiction, contemporary

  The two best days of Alice's week are Saturday and Sunday. Yard sale days. Her house is littered with trophies collected from her bargain hunting, but the clutter and the yard sale obsession aren't the problem, they're just symptoms. Originally appeared 2004-10-23.

Nonfiction

• Hope Among the Ashes (September 11, 2004) nonfiction

  Cover story.

• Cookie Tradition (December 25, 2004) nonfiction

  Traditional Swedish Christmas pepparkakors -- cookies so good they take two days to make. Each taste contains a memory.

• The Magic of Horses (January 1, 2005) nonfiction

  Cover story

• The River Revealed (April 10, 2005) nonfiction

  Cover story. First appeared 2004-08-21.

• Journey With Animals: A Memoir (August 15, 2005) cover story nonfiction memoir

  Having a pet can be a rewarding relationship. Though most of the time, we take care of their needs, sometimes they wind up taking care of ours.

• Peek of the Week 012 (October 17, 2005) nonfiction photo art

  Whatever is in the water is going to have Kodiak to deal with!

• Beyond The Shadow of War: The Living Memorial Sculpture Garden (November 7, 2005) cover story nonfiction travel war memorial

  Dennis Smith, who believes that "through art we have the means to peacefully consider violence," has created a war memorial that fills the observer with reverence and tranquility.

• Winter Returns (March 13, 2006) cover story nonfiction essay destination

  At the Manzanita Lake entrance to Lassen Volcanic National Park, someone has posted cautionary advice about being prepared for sudden changes in weather. Is it the advice of a furry rodent in shades and ski boots?

• Tawny Ghost (April 24, 2006) nonfiction

  Fog drapes the manzanita bushes and wisps across the pavement in front of my car. The road is dark with damp and at its edge sits a golden animal. I brake because I think it's a stray dog, maybe injured and in need of rescue. The animal turns its head to look at me for a second, then bunches its muscles and springs. Its front feet hit the center line of the road, then the back haunches roll forward. The hind feet strike the pavement, while the front legs stretch for the opposite side of the road. The tip of the creature's long tail flicks, as if waving good bye, before it disappears into the thick brush.<br><br> My heart thrills and a tingle launches itself up my spine. I have just seen one of the most elusive animals in North America: a mountain lion.... (Originally appeared 2005-02-13)

• Peek of the Week 049 (July 10, 2006) photo art

  The German Shepherd Dog Kodiak, and little playmate Sam.

• Out of the Fog (March 12, 2007) cover story nonfiction essay

  In Humboldt County, California, a young man is missing. Caribou, a trained German Shepherd Dog, is deployed on her first search after she was declared "mission ready." The cliffside terrain is dangerous, and the man seems to have disappeared from the face of the world ...

• Footprints in the Wilderness (April 16, 2007) nonfiction

  Lassen Volcanic National Park lies almost fifty miles due east of Redding, California. On June 22, 2003 I am not thinking of the Park's beauty. On this night, a murmur of a search in progress begins, and grows as the bright, hot day fades into a still, breezeless night. A tiny child, not yet four years old, is lost. (Originally appeared 07-24-2004)

• Turn Off The Main Road: Mt. Shasta Lavender Farm (July 27, 2009) travel "Mt. Shasta Lavender Farm"

  The view extraordinary, the scent sublime -- Mt. Shasta Lavender Farm is a high desert beauty inviting all to turn off the main road and experience summer at its finest.

Comics

• Peek of the Week 06 (September 5, 2005) photograph, animals, horses

  Mama and her little mule foal, Ruby

• Peek of the Week 036 (April 3, 2006) photo art

  A contrast of snow and rock. Lassen Volcanic National Park, Shasta County, California.

• Peek of the Week 405 (June 24, 2013) photo art

  So beautiful, so serene, so dangerous: Mt. Shasta, California, USA.

Essay

• Caribousmom: Featured Blog (November 4, 2013) essay featured blog

  In this week's Featured Blog, Wendy Robards talks about the charitable organization Gone Reading, and its work providing funding for libraries around the world.