The Inner Circle

Cover retrieved from Goodreads

The Inner Circle (Culper Ring #1)

Brad Meltzer

Grand Central Publishing: 2011, 449 pages

Reviewed by Ellen Dickman

This book was an enjoyable read if you like suspenseful action.  Beecher White, the main character, is an archivist who has a passion for his work in the National Archives, but it would probably be described as an ordinary, if not typically boring, job.  His life is turned upside down when an old friend, Clementine Kaye, asks him for assistance locating an archival file.  In a mishap, Beecher is thrown into a national security issue that has him solving messages and codes in an effort to protect his own life as well as creating new and unexpected alliances.  The story has many twists and turns and unexpected outcomes as Beecher questions friendships, co-workers, and even the President of the United States.

The Girl on the Train

Cover retrieved from Goodreads

The Girl on the Train

Paula Hawkins

Riverhead Books: 2015, 336 pages

Reviewed by Ellen Dickman

Many people compared this book to Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn.  I found the character development of the three female characters to be very engaging.  My sister said that when she was reading this book she felt "sick."  Indeed, the characters are flawed.  However, this is why the book was enjoyable because one could relate to the characters.  The fragile mind of Rachel was particularly compelling and so was the author's examination of how one can easily confuse reality and fantasy.  

Looking for Alaska

Cover retrieved from Goodreads

Looking for Alaska

John Green

Speak: 2006, 221 pages

Reviewed by Ellen Dickman

This is on many lists for young adults and a few banned book lists.  I enjoyed this book; it's about a teenage boy, Miles, who attends a co-ed boarding school.  He must deal with some unexpected and difficult life events.  I would love to read this with a book club as I would enjoy other readers' perspectives of his character.