This coming-of-age story takes place during the time of the Shah in Iran but it is still a delightful love story.   The protagonist is seventeen when he falls deeply in love with the girl next door, who happens to be promised to another.   The story is by turns funny and sweet and thought-provoking and heart-wrenching. 

Mahbod, the author, is local and he would be delighted to discuss his book with book clubs.

This historical fiction title is a thriller as the forensic specialist tries to figure out who is killing the children in the small English town.  The Jews are being blamed and the monarch is trying to protect them and find out who is really doing the dastardly deeds. 

The interesting part of the novel is that the forensic expert is a woman which is not at all acceptable in these times.  If caught doing her job, she will be burned at the stake as a witch.   There is a lot to learn here and a lot to discuss.

Diane says: Don’t miss this devilishly seductive novel set in Florence circa 1490. Art, romance and politics play into the life of Alessandra Cecchi and the mysterious artist who inhabits her house. Book clubs will enjoy speculating about the identity of the artist.

Diane says: It doesn’t get much better than this engrossing novel! 19th-century China comes alive as we meet Lily and Snow Flower who are contracted to be lifelong, intimate friends when they are seven. The rigid codes of conduct for women and the horrifying foot-binding process make me so thankful to be born here. This historical chronicle is an absorbing look at Chinese life and customs,