The Postcard Killers - James Patterson - Book 143

James Patterson and Liza Marklund collaborate for the tale of a hunt to catch a pair of killers who are rampaging through Europe killing couples and sending postcards to the local newspapers to announce their victims. Detective Jacob Kanon has a personal interest in this one, as his daughter and her husband were among the killers' victims. Swedish reporter Dessie Larsson helps him when the killers are tracked to Stockholm, and they try to stop the killers from striking again. Though most Amazon reviewers pan it, this is a decent read, though not Patterson's greatest (maybe because he's no longer writing them on his own?).

The 7th Month by Lisa Gardner - Book 142

I'm a big fan of Lisa Gardner's work so I was prepared to enjoy this story of what detective D D Warren does while she is 7 months pregnant and on desk duty. In the 7th Month, a gig as a film consultant leads to the chance to solve a murder, which DD does in less than a day. Short and sweet, and a recommended read.

The Unit by Ninni Holmqvist - Book 141

When I read The Unit by Ninni Holmqvist, I couldn't help being reminded of another book set in a similar sort of world. In the world of main character Dorrit Wegner, childless people over a certain age, unless they are in protected occupations, are deemed 'dispensable' and leave the outside world behind to live out their days in a unit where all their needs are provided for. The catch is that they must take part in medical experiments and donate organs to help those who are 'needed' on the outside. Sooner or later, the idyll comes to an end with a final donation. At first, Dorrit finds a world that is infinitely more accepting of her than the world she left behind (after all, they are all in the same boat). She falls in love and finds happiness, but her will is often tested as those close to her reach the end of the donation cycle. This was an intriguing and slightly worrying book, but well worth reading. Recommended. I'd love to read some more of her books, but unfortunately this is the only one in English so far. (Oh, and the book it reminded me of?  Never Let Me Go  by Kazuo Ishiguro.)

Turning Point - Melissa Garrett - Book 140

I could not stop reading Turning Point, the story of a girl, Jenna, who leaves on vacation and wanders into a decade old unsolved mystery when her car breaks down. Her rescuer, Phil, may not be what he seems - and neither might his wife Myra and son Dominic. When Jenna finds out what's really happening, the story is even more horrific and the only question is whether she will get away before someone is seriously hurt. Absolutely gripping and highly recommended.

The Lost Ark - Book 139

Yep, it's the hunt for the Ark on Mount Ararat, joined with a missing persons search following in the footsteps of an Ararat scholar and enthusiast. Readable though not riveting. Here's Amazon's description:

In a lonely bar in eastern Turkey, ex-National Geographic photojournalist Sam Ward is hired to find an eccentric professor who disappeared high atop Mount Ararat, fabled resting spot of Noah's Ark. Accompanied by the professor's beautiful daughter, archaeologist Faye Roberts, Sam soon stumbles upon a secret stronghold — a base of operation for unleashing hell of earth. Now running for their lives, Sam and company are about to come face-to-face with the greatest archaeological discovery of all time....

The Witness - Dee Henderson - Book 138

The Witness is a complex novel and it's best to highlight Amazon's own description of it.

Police Chief Luke Granger's witness to a murder, Amy Griffin, has been on the run for years. Her family thinks she was murdered eight years ago, but Amy chose to accept a life in the shadows in order to protect her sisters' lives. Now unveiled secrets about their father have thrust the sisters into the public spotlight. The man who wants Amy dead now sees her sisters as the way to locate her. 

I found the characters likeable, and the premise interesting, but overall the book wasn't as compelling as I'd hoped. If you're able to pick it up second hand or as a Kindle freebie, you won't be disappointed, but don't pay full price.

Tuesdays with Morrie - Book 137

One of my favorite books from my first book club was The Five People You Meet in Heaven, so I couldn't wait to read Tuesdays with Morrie, which I'd heard so much about. Until I opened the book I had no idea that it was non-fiction, but the tale of Albom's past and present relationship with his dying college professor and the life lessons that he learns from him is as riveting as any novel. It's written in a simple and accessible style and is an easy read. Highly recommended.