The Lovely Bones

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold.

Review:

Susie Salmon details her death within the first chapter. She was 14 years old when she was lured by a neighbor into an underground trench, raped, and killed. The way Susie describes her death is very interesting, she states it just as facts, without much questioning. She never wonders "why me?" she just knows it happened. She knows her killer, she keeps an eye on him, her friends, and her family from her heaven. The story details the lives of everyone around her and how they were affected by her sudden death. As the years go on, she is thought of less and less but is still ever present. The tone is eerie and I was spooked by it at times, but I have to say it's a new point of view to read from and it really is great.

Tuscan Holiday

Tuscan Holiday, by Holly Chamberlin.

Review:

Elizabeth's Daughter, Marina, graduated from college. She's 21 and engaged to be married to Jothem who is a very controlling man. They've been dating since Marina was 15 years old. Elizabeth and Marina do not have much in common, hence the trip to Italy; meant to be a bonding experience. Marina is very serious and the trip does lighten her up a bit. Elizabeth hopes the trip will allow Marina to let go of home a little and discover herself. Marina meets a man in Italy and falls head over heels instantly. It was a little cliche (love at first sight/fate). Marina ends up learning a lot about herself on the trip; discovering that she tends to be a pushover when it comes to men. Elizabeth faces her own self and demons from her past. She discovers she too has not been living her life to the fullest. Overall a good book and good message.

The Truth About Forever

The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen.

Review:

Macy recently lost her father and her mother has taught her to grieve in silence. The two go about their lives as though it was always just the two of them; which is fine for both of them. Macy is hard working, a good student, and never breaks the rules. Her boyfriend, Jason, is a brainiac and is much the same way---perfect. Until Jason goes away to "brain" camp. Macy takes his job at the town library while he's gone and works with two girls who could care less about her (and more about her boyfriend). When Macy stumbles upon Wish Catering Company, she finds her soulmates; the people who wake her up to the life she's been missing. As her ties to Jason dwindle she relies more on her friendship with Wes, a caterer and artist. Macy & her mother face change and learn to talk about the past, and look toward their future.

Mystic River

Mystic River by Dennis Lehane.

Review:

After reading "Shutter Island" I decided to pick up "Mystic River". This was another great thriller. I found it to be a bit too long. I think a lot of things were drawn out. However I liked the cast of characters and the suprise ending. Very good!