• Rated 4 stars

“Rachel is the typical chick-lit type of heroine. Cute enough, has just enough money, smart- but overlooked. She loses luster in the limelight of her best friend Darcy, and in the swirl of planning Darcy's wedding she realizes she has feelings for Darcy's fiance'.

The trouble begins with a drunken one night affair that deepens into a meaningful relationship, with her best friend's fiance'.

This is the type of book that makes you really reflect on your own life, loves, and friendships. I enjoyed this book for the journey it let Rachel go on, discovering herself and questioning all she knows in dealing with people around her. You will be nervous and excited for the story that unfolds. Possibly a great 'beach read' , although I read it cuddled on the couch on a rainy fall day. Not earth chanigng literature, but a fun engrossing story that let's you escape for a while.”

RamSam wrote this review Saturday, October 18 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“I am a fan of O'Reilly's hard hitting straight talk and snarky quips to the obvious, and I have always wondered what makes him tick.

This is a very motivating memior, taking you through the walks of Bill's life as he was raised and worked his way to what we now know as "The Factor". I applaud his unapolagetic love for religion and the sturdy footings it always gave him, plus his need to fix things that "aren't right". I believe honest journalism is an oxymoron today, yet O'Reilly is one of the few that calls it as he sees it.

Had he held back on a few of his repetetive phrases and calling himself the "bold , fresh guy" ( a name deeded to him by a nun from Catholic shcool) every turn of the page, I would have rated this 5 stars, but I get a tiny bit irritated when I read a book and it repeats phrases numerous times. Other than that, this is a MUST for anyone who admires his attitude and confidence, and if you aren't a fan- after this book you may be. I am now officially one myself. I wish this country had more men like Bill O'Reilly.....bold, fresh, and all.”

RamSam wrote this review Monday, October 13 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“A recent trip back East moved this up on my list, as I was so excited to visit Salem, Ma. I am a fan of plays, but this did take me a bit to switch gears to the reading style. Once I was able to get the setting in my mind I really found this interesting and tragic alike.

The notions of the government symbolism wasn't in my head when I read it, but this books leaves you with so many questions....what can people get away with in the name of God, especially when it is brewed by fear and majority rules? There is a lot to ponder in the message of this book.

The story of the Salem Witch trials also stands well on it's own. The crazy blaming of the society, the scapegoats found in those who did not fit in, as well as the actual deaths, are all amazing. A short little play that packs a punch. I would like to think we are above anything like this happening today....are we?”

RamSam wrote this review Sunday, October 5 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“A book that is original and fresh, it chronicles the kidnapping stand-off of a group of young terrorists at an up scale party.

The characters unfold and develop in the wake of being confined, some actually growing and enjoying life better than ever. Roxanne Coss, the beloved opera soprano, is in the middle of the story, her voice gaining control and unlocking the barriers of everyone under attack.

I enjoyed the descriptive setting and character developement, but found myself not sure what to think in the end. A book so well crafted could have found a better ending, or even the same ending written a little better. After savoring the pages and struggles of all the people involved I suddenly couldn't believe it was over....but that may have been the goal of the author in proving a point of the story. As a reader, though , it left me feeling rushed and unfinished. Still worth reading- especially if you enjoy character development and something different than your usual best seller. A slight reworking of the ending would have gained another star from me.”

RamSam wrote this review Sunday, October 5 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“This book is straight talk, tell it like it is, no excuses accepted for tired housewives. I think I am at a place in my life where this book was very powerful- I am not sure it would have had the same effect 5 years ago, but for today, I loved it.

The idea that as women we feel tired and overwhelmed is so common. Also common is the notion we need to 'get away' or we 'deserve a break', or get out with other women for man bashing talks. I love the old fashioned idea that when you try to keep your energy up, and work with the intensity a husband works with at work, you can become a happier, more fulfilled woman. I love the idea that marriage is worth fighting for, worth keeping sexy, worth time and effort. I love the idea of a woman really changing the man she she has chosen just by loving him more.

I know this book will offend lots of women and feminists who do not see a woman's roll as Dr Laura does, but for me it was right on the money. I don't love her talk show (she is so rude to callers!), but this book was priceless. I had to minus one star because at times the material of the book was very repetitive and didn't flow, but I highly recommend this book to anyone who's homelife and marital status needs an energy boost.”

RamSam wrote this review Thursday, September 25 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“I love young adult novels that show character and strength, plus add the element of historical content, and this book is a fabulous story still today.

I found Kit a fun, believeable character, stuck in an environment that she did not fit in to very well. She figures out how to adapt and how to stay true to herself, and combines them nicely. Her befriending of the Shaker woman on the pond, known to many as a witch, becomes a saving grace as well as trouble. Nicely written, hints of romance, and lots of endurance- this is a great historical novel for young and old readers alike.”

RamSam wrote this review Sunday, September 21 2008. ( reply | permalink )

0 of 1 members found this review helpful.

• Rated 2 stars

“A book club pick, I actually have had a lot of people tell me they like this little novel. I did not like it. Parts of the story had potential, but the plot is thin and confused, the charcater developement is non-existent, and the stroy in and of itself is just not that engaging. Oh well, you win some... and you lose some.”

RamSam wrote this review Sunday, September 21 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“Please remember, ratings are given in the context of what the book is intended for. This was the final novel of a saga that has taken the media and women of all ages by storm. I rate it highly because it actually finished the saga and answered so many questions we had through the novels. While some may be concerned that the material is not suitable for Young Adult audiences I believe the characters were acting in complete compliance with their history. Not that I agreed, just that it seemed to all make sense. I was thrilled that Meyer found a way to satisfy fans of both Jacob and Edward, while throwing in a few new elements that were completely unexpected. I enjoyed some of the bloodier conflicts, as this is a book about Vampires, after all, and thought over all the book was satisfying and interesting. Anyone interested in Bella's story MUST read this, and everyone else will just have to wait for the movies! Even for a non 'fantasy' or 'sci-fi' reader, Meyers found a way to keep hooked until the end- which is why she is a best selling author.”

RamSam wrote this review Sunday, August 10 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 5 stars

“Amazing storytelling and stunningly researched, this book is one of my favorite reads of the year. Megan Chance tells the story of Lucy, an upper class New York society woman with what should be the 'perfect' life. Her fits of depression and hysteria keep her husband and father controlling her every move. When she meets Dr Seth, an unconventional hypnotist who urges her to break free from the restraints of her life, all that she knows falls away and tragedy stirkes... or does it?

I could not (literally) put this book down. It is a tragic look at the confines women (and men) must have lived within the Victorian era. The subject matter of sexuality is absolutely shocking and engaging (what a perfect combination), but the story is smart and well written, with plot bits that were unexpected. I LOVE LOVE LOVE when the reader guides reveal what you hate to believe while reading, that this book is written in honor of historical research and actual experiences, reminding me again and again that truth is stranger than ficiton. I am so thrilled with this book, but due to it's sexual nature not quite sure who to give it to next.... I found it utterly brilliant. A true page turner, and historical story that amazes. Megan Chance has done a wonder.”

RamSam wrote this review Thursday, June 26 2008. ( reply | permalink )

• Rated 4 stars

“Another well planned family legal battle delivered only like Picoult does. A super engaging read, starts off quickly and keeps it's momentum throughout the entire book- not an easy feat. The story revolves around Delia, who learns (early on, not a spoiler) that she is not who she thinks she is. Early in the story the truth about her father is brought to light, and she must face her past and the truth about her lost mother - and the father who raised her on her own. Great legal issues and huge parental food for thought.... this is another master crafted story, that will keep you turning the plot in your head. Due to Picoult's rotating narratives we spend chapters in the minds of Delia, her fiance', best friend, and father who is waiting for trial in prison. The prison setting in paticular is very upsetting and super intense. I really did love this book, but I am not a huge fan of any loose ends in a stories finale. Not that the story isn't complete, but you do end up closing the book with a touch of doubt in what you thought you knew, and for me that always feels like a cop out on a writers end. I love a solid powerful ending for me to deal with, and this wasn't quite strong enough for my tastes. Except for that small bit- I would have rated this 5 stars, but as it stands, it sits with a 4. ”

RamSam wrote this review Saturday, June 14 2008. ( reply | permalink )