01 Nov The Virgin Cure by Ami McKay
There was a time when virgin women were considered the cure for a man who was afflicted with syphilis or “the pox”. It was an unfortunate myth that put many innocent young ladies at risk for their own health and lives. The Virgin Cure is set during that period in history (1871 New York), where we are introduced to Moth Fenwick. She lives with her mother, who seems to be making a living from fortune telling. When we meet Moth (an only child and fatherless), she is twelve and on the verge of being given away for a price. We get the feeling that there is no love lost on her mother’s part, but Moth imagines that she will one day return home.
01 Oct The Peach Keeper by Sarah Addison Allen
I have to hand it to Sarah Addison Allen. What a heartfelt and “feel good” book to read! The Peach Keeper is uplifting, it made me laugh out loud, and cry like no tomorrow. There is no stronger message in this book than the importance of true friendship. Add to it some superstitions and a town ghost—and you have the makings for a wonderful story.
05 Sep Russian Winter by Daphne Kalotay
This book by Daphne Kalotay is one of my favorites. It is her debut novel and I need to say that she has started on the right track. There are secrets, romantic relationships and unfortunate misunderstandings.