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Book Reviews

The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared
Jonas Jonasson
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3 Stars

A delightful, whimsical tale that follows Allan Karlsson’s unexpected adventure after escaping his nursing home on his 100th birthday. This charming story blends history with humor as Allan encounters a cast of eccentric characters, making for a thoroughly entertaining read that keeps you guessing until the very end.

-Michelle
Posted 3/13/24

The Christie Affair
Nina de Gramont
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3 Stars

This engaging historical mystery delves into the intriguing life of Agatha Christie. Set against the backdrop of a disappearance that mirrors Christie’s mysterious vanishing, the author creates a riveting narrative full of suspense, secrets, and clever twists. With meticulous attention to detail and a richly atmospheric setting, this novel offers a captivating glimpse into the enigmatic world of one of literature’s most renowned authors.

-Michelle
Posted 2/13/2024

The Keeper of Lost Things: A Novel
Ruth Hogan
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3 Stars

This heartwarming tale intricately weaves together its characters’ lives through lost objects and second chances. Hogan’s writing is compelling and poignant, exploring themes of love, loss, and the power of connection in a beautifully crafted narrative. With its charming cast and whimsical premise, this novel is a delightful exploration of the human experience.

-Michelle
Posted on 2/13/2024

The Last Thing He Told Me
Laura Dave
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4 Stars

A gripping and emotionally intense thriller that skillfully navigates the intricate web of family secrets and deception. Dave masterfully intertwines suspense with heartfelt exploration of love and trust, making this novel a compelling page-turner that keeps readers on the edge until the final revelation. Intricately plotted with a strong female lead, it is both menacing and hopeful.

-Michelle
Posted 1/24/24

The Ocean at the End of the Lane
Neil Gaiman
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4 Stars

An intensifying and mesmerizing blend of fantasy and nostalgia, weaving a poignant tale of childhood memories and the mysterious world that lies just beyond reality. Gaiman’s lyrical prose and evocative storytelling create a haunting narrative that explores the complexities of growing up and the enduring magic hidden in the corners of our past.

-Michelle
Posted 1/24/24

The Road
Cormac McCarthy
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5 Stars

The Road is a haunting tale of a father and son attempting to survive the trials and tribulations of a post-apocalyptic world. McCarthy’s subdued use of language develops layered characters in a distorted version of the world as we know it. The two main protagonists share a unique bond that grounds the story in a world bereft of humanity. McCarthy encapsulates the struggles of raising a child in a world without order and explores the role of hope even during the most dire of circumstances. An instant classic for those who desire an uncompromising analysis of human nature and our most difficult qualities. Can a father and son survive in a world full of struggle or will they succumb to the collapse of their fragile psyches?

-Mike
Posted 1/20/2024

Big Swiss: a novel
Jen Beagin
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4 Stars

The act of going to therapy – sex and intimacy therapy, no less – is personal. So, when Greta the office transcriptionist embarks on a mission to create a happenstance romance with a woman she knows only as her initials FEW, things get zany. Check out this title if you’re searching for a tale of unhinged fascination, unrequited love and untold bedroom secrets.

-Hannah
Posted 1/5/2024

Divine Rivals
Rebecca Ross
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5 Stars

Diametrically opposed Iris Winnow and Roman Kitt vie for the same columnist position at the Gazette. Iris longs to put her penchant for words to good use through war coverage; Roman Kitt aims to make a name for himself, beyond being the son of a powerful, cruel man. Both young journalists have ulterior motives… and a magical connection tethering them to one another. In a gorgeous, heartbreaking tale of determination, violence and love lost and found, this novel is a triumph for lovers of fantasy, as well as romance novels.

-Hannah
Posted 11/15/2023

The Sunset Years of Agnes Sharp
Leonie Swann
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5 Stars

Agnes Sharp had a dream: to create a shared home for sick and ailing elderly to live out their days with dignity and in good company. That place is Sunset Hall. With housemates who are equal parts befuddling and beguiling, Agnes lives in relative peace… that is, until a series of murders befall the quiet seniors who neighbor Sunset Hall. Now, it is up to these senior-super-sleuths to crack the case instead of a hip. Whip-smart, candid and quirky, this novel is a must-read for those who enjoy their murder-mystery with a cup of English Breakfast tea.

-Hannah
Posted 11/15/2023

The Paris Library: A Novel
Janet Skeslien Charles
Find in Catalog

4 Stars

Set in Paris shortly before the German occupation during WWII, courageous Odile is a Parisian who works as a librarian for the American Library in Paris. A compelling historical fiction novel, The Paris Library tells the story of the difference a library and their staff can make in so many lives. Emotionally intense and dramatic, this heartwarming story will stay with you after the final page.
-Michelle
Posted 11/1/2023

Readers Advisory Staff

Looking for that great new read? The Villa Park Public Library has a fantastic Readers Advisory staff that is happy to recommend novels. Whether you’re looking for new authors like your old favorites, or you’re ready for something completely new, our RA staff is here to help. They run reading groups and book discussions to help make reading a more social experience. These folks know their stuff!

Looking for a Recommendation?

If you’re looking for a recommendation you can contact one of the readers advisory staff.

Amity
Favorite genres:
Horror, Science Fiction, Fantasy, Young Adult Literature
Amity’s bookshelf on Goodreads.
Aurora
Favorite genres:
Fantasy, Romance, Young Adult Literature
Aurora’s bookshelf on Goodreads
Hannah
Favorite Genres:
Contemporary Romance, Mystery and Thrillers, and the occasional Young Adult novel
Hannah’s bookshelf on Goodreads
John
Favorite Genres:
Alternate History Fiction, Suspense
John’s bookshelf on Goodreads
kandice k
Kandice
Favorite Genres:

Chick Lit, Suspense, and Mysteries

Michelle H.
Favorite Genres:

Historical Fiction, Psychological Thrillers
Michelle’s bookshelf on Goodreads
Nancy
Favorite genres:
Literary Fiction and Regional American History.
Nancy’s bookshelf on Goodreads
Sandy
Favorite Genres:
Fantasy, Film
sean_final
Sean
Favorite Genres:

True-life biographies, Non-fiction
Sean’s bookshelf on Goodreads

 

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