Case histories, by Kate Atkinson

Not a collection of short stories, although it starts out feeling that way, but a maze that eventually links the characters to murder. Like a connect-the-dot puzzle, the picture remains fuzzy until close to the end of the book. I really liked the chapters where Atkinson begins with an assumption, and as the writing progresses you feel you've been included in a secret. Good writing, well drawn characters. I'll have to go back and re-read her other works.

Careless in red, by Elizabeth George

Continuing the story of Detective Superintendent Thomas Lynley, who, trying to come to grips with the murder of his pregnant wife, is hiking in Cornwall when he discovers a dead body. Becoming involved in solving the crime brings him slowly back to life. Good characters with wonderful names and lots of plot twists. Another good story from George's series.

Sundays at Tiffany's, by James Patterson

I found it telling that the only titles listed under "Also by James Patterson": included "Sam's Letters to Jennifer" and "Suzanne's Diary for Nicholas," with a complete list available on pages 312-313. Get out the kleenex. This story definitely comes from Patterson's sensitive side, with help from co-writer Gabrielle Charbonnet. Did you ever have an imaginary friend, as a child? Did you ever wonder what happened to that imaginary friend? What would it be like if you met your friend again when you were grown up? This is a fast read with a satisfying ending. I couldn't help wondering how Stephen King would have handled the same idea!

The year she disappeared, by Ann Harleman

Why would a grandmother kidnap her daughter's child? Because her daughter asked her to. A powerful look at the emotions of a mother and grandmother. What makes someone a "good mother?" How are mothers shaped by their mothers? You'll find yourself looking into your own past as you read this novel.

A prisoner of birth, by Jeffrey Archer

From the blurb about the author: "...he served five years in the House of Commons, fourteen in the House of Lords, and two in Her Majesty's prisons..."
But he writes a great book! Innocent of the murder of his best friend, Danny Cartwright is nevertheless convicted and sentenced to 22 years in prison (the same one Archer was in). He strikes up a friendship with his cellmates and the action never stops. From the author of "Kane and Abel," a great story.

The whole truth, by David Baldacci

I love the way Baldacci gives us a glimpse into the inner workings of the political world. I always suspected there was one person somewhere pulling the strings, and what a perfect name for him - Nicolas Creel. Who profits the most from war? The person selling the weapons. What's the best way to increase profits? Create a war. Fascinating and repelling at the same time.

Hold tight, by Harlan Coben

Tia and Mike Baye have a 16-year-old son, Adam. Adam's good friend Spencer committed suicide and Adam has been despondent ever since. Adam's parents decide they need to find out more about what Adam is doing, so they purchase a computer program that lets them into his computer. They find a suspicious message, and then Adam disappears. Tightly written, fast-paced look at a typical family concern: do teens have a right of privacy?