Greetings to our discussion of "Lake News" by Barbara Delinsky. The discussion will start on November 1 to give everyone time to obtain a copy and start reading.

This was the cheapie on my book club offer this month! What a great coincidence! $4.00 for hard back copy! Hope I got in quick enough sometimes they run out! I will get it if it is available before the start of the discussion too!

Carolyn

I don't have a copy yet, but I'm looking. I called my library today and they're going to hold it for me if and when they get it. Meanwhile, I'm reading Diana Gabaldon's Dragonfly in Amber. I just finished her Outlander and find this series fascinating. Sue

Hi KIWI LADY and SUE. Glad to see you here. I plan to start reading the book tonight.

A link has been added just below the heading to a B&L Suggestion Box. In addition to mentioning books here you can post them in the Suggestion Box if you would like to discuss them.

I read the book sometime ago and really enjoyed it. I still have the book and am looking forward to the discussion.

Hope you all enjoyed the book as much as I did. Its not just a regular romace novel --boy gets girl- girl gets boy the end. hehe

Hi JUDY. I started the book last night and it certainly has grabbed my attention. Hard to put down. I think there will be a lot to talk about. The "boy gets girl- girl gets boy the end" books are the ones I carry with me in my purse to read while I am waiting for something. The ones I savor have more to the story. A little character, a plot, something to believe could happen.

You know Marjorie I really loved the part about the loons that is carried through out the book.

Hi, all. I managed to get the book from the library, but haven't started to read it yet. I'll try to start, at least, before the discussion.

from my library. I'll call again Monday and see if they can get it on Interlibrary Loan. I'll also check the used book store next week. I think I can catch up if it takes a week or so to get the book. Sue

Hi MEM and SUE. I finished the book yesterday. It was another one that I had trouble putting down. I wanted to know how everything worked out. There are even some questions in the back of my copy. At least there was an interview with the author and I can make some questions about the book from that.

How do you all feel about the possibility of an on-going discussion to discuss Romance books that you would like to discuss sometime here? There is a discussion like that for Great Books. We can mention what books we are reading and recommend there too.

Marjorie

I picked up my copy of Lake News yesterday at the library which had retrieved it from another branch. When I went to pick it up I found a sale going on I didn't know about. I could have bought a copy of Lake News there, too. Needless to say I came home with a bag full of books. I'm not sure I understand what you are asking about, Marjorie.A second discussion at the same time with the regular one? Clarify, please. Marj

I am about half way through Lake News. A good book. Should be good for discussion come Wednesday!

I too, am a bit confused about your question Marjorie. Please clarify.

Northern Joan

Hi M and NORTHERN JOAN. I will try to clarify my question:

What I envision is a place to mention books that you would like to discuss later. Not a discussion of the books just a mention of them. This would be a way to say "oh, I just read ZZZ and really enjoyed it." It would also be a place that I could go and see what has been recommended and make up a list so we could all vote on future selections. I know romance books can be mentioned in the Fiction discussion, or Books That Lite My Fire, or the Suggestion Box. Maybe I just need to monitor those two discussions.

What I am asking is if there is any interest here in having a place for people just to mention what they are reading when they are reading it. It might even be a mention about something that is a fun read and not for discussion. Just a place to mention romance books without having a particular book to discuss.

This is just a thought. Is this any clearer?

Marjorie

The banner brought me here. This looks like a book I might like to read. I just finished a couple, then I picked up a couple I put down because I was bored with them and they're both hardback and it's hard for me to take them with me when I go out. I like a little paperback to carry in my pocket or purse for times I must wait for something or other...that's when I get a lot of my reading done.

Yo Joan!MY,Tampa Bay 34 vs. 13 for your Vikings. You better get hot girl, I'm breathing down on ya.

Didn't you find yourself thinking about how we should be more like the loons? BD described them as something primal and wild, but simple, straight forward and safe. An honest life!

Emma: I know just what you mean, I always have a "quickie" to take with me. I have books in both cars, in my book bag and in my purse at any given time. Are you joining us here for this one?

I know, I know. Boo hoo.

N.Joan

I'll love you anyway.

I am another one who carries books with me so that I don't have to just "people watch" when I am waiting. A friend of mine doesn't read when she waits, she watches the people around her and makes up stories about them in her mind instead.

Waiting for my copy from the book club! I am going to be behind in the discussion!

Carolyn

KIWI LADY: Today is Monday and the discussion doesn't "formally" start until Wednesday. You may still receive your book before we start. There is no "rule" how the discussion will go. In the past, when people haven't received their book yet, we slowed the discussion.

I just started reading Julie Garwood's "Gardian Angel" and am really enjoying it. I keep chuckling to myself. It was published in 1990.

Good morning all. I'm about a third of the way through Lake News. I've read Delinsky only once or twice before and I remember now that she is very detailed in her scene setting. I think that slows down the story.I keep wanting to say I don't care that the chair has a green print just let me know what the heroine is doing now.:~) I've always suspected the power of the media could be destructive when wielded unscrupulously, haven't you? Scary! Marj

I read so many trash novels as I call them and out of the last 50 or so I remember maybe one or two.

I loved this book and really enjoyed the loons, it seem so peaceful at the house in the woods where she retreated to

Have you ever been in a situation when someone acused you of something you didn't do and there was no way to prove you right. Its a frightning experience with different degrees depending on what you have been accused of

It seems to me if that cardinal or what ever he was would have stood up the first day and said something none of this would have happened. My thought about him is too little too late

While reading this novel, I had a de-ja-vu experience. This happened to me while I was in nursing school. I was falsely accused of something akin to this, by the nuns. A kindness that I had done had been twisted, turned and misrepresented into something smutty, dirty and vile.) I was called up on the red carpet, by my sisterly advisor, threatened with expulsion from nursing school and told that this fabrication would be discussed at a board meeting of the sisters. I was NOT asked who, what, why, where or when. I was told that I had caused this infraction of the rules and guidelines. Nobody really gave a damn whether I did it or not, they loved it, wallowed in it and used one little fact to concoct this invented story. I was nearly kicked out of school, in my Sr. year for this. It didn't matter that I was 2nd in my class,accolades galore in my folder or that I had never had any infractions before , in her eyes, I was guilty as charged.

Alf wasn't that the most helpless feeling when you knew it was wrong and you could do nothing?? Its a feeling thats hard to describe.

The problem with those kinds of accusations is: How do you prove INNOCENCE? Proving guilt is much easier than disproving accusations. No matter what you come up with there is always, but what about this time or that time or this thing or that thing. It took me a long time to accept John Kipling because he, too, is a reporter and wanted a story.

How nice to come in today and find you all discussing this book.

Hi M, JUDY, and ALF.

Marjorie

I wasn't even given the chance, as our Lily, to prove my innocence. Well put Marj "proving guilty was easier than even assuming that these facts were distorted." Let us forget the fact they were not there, I was and they still did not want to hear "my" voice. Needless to say, I have never allowed anyone to put me into that situation again and I DID have the final word. I found myself in this pickle with an alliance that I had nurtured only to get the "weenie." It leaves one vulnerable and forever dubious to "stories."

and to think that NUNS would participate in vilifying a good student on innuendo. It's actually unthinkable!

I'm happy to report that I found a copy of Lake News at my tradin' book store for half price (actually for free, as we took in enough books to get a $40 credit which we promptly spent on other books new to us). I'll start reading tonight. It sounds like everyone is enjoying the book. Sue

SUE: I'm glad you were able to get the book. You must have taken LOTS of books in. I never get as much as $40 credit. Whenever I get a credit, I spend more than that credit when I pick out new books. Of course, if I didn't, the store wouldn't be able to stay in business.

It's a good thing Lily has Poppy who, it seems, is going to be supportive. I like her job. She's in a position to know everything that is going on in town and yet I don't think she will exploit that. With a mother like Maida, Lily needs someone in her corner. I, too, blame the Cardinal. With a few words he could have cleared up the matter. Of course he was getting his orders from the Pope. And where would the story be if Lily had been exonerated.:~) Besides isn't it always the woman who pays with the loss of her reputation? Of course, I would have thought that an outdated concept in this day of "enlightenment." Marj

M: I like Poppy a lot, too. She seems to be a balancing factor helping to keep Lily sane.

in the first chapter with John Kipling and the loons move very slowly. I think I'd have to agree with you, Marj, that this bit slows the story down. I kept wanting to meet Lily and see what she is like.

I, too, have reservations about John Kipling now that I have Lily moved back to the Lake. Delinsky makes us think that he will exploit Lily's story. However, since it is a romance, I think he'll probably have a change of heart. I think Delinskey makes John sympathetic in the scene with his father and Lily in the reports of her Mother's attitude. So far, I haven't met Maida in person. Poppy seems almost too good to be true. So happy and understanding when her life has been turned upside down. I do think she's a winner.

I like the serenity of the rural lake community. That's the kind of place I like to visit and/or live. Sue

I just got the book today and I've only read the first 100 pages. This is my first Delinsky book and I'm impressed so far. There are so many issues that Ms. Delinsky brings up in the book...a lot of meat ...beyond the romance between Lily and John that is about to be born. She makes me think about the importance of the press media exercising its extensive power responsibly and truthfully, rather than selling papers through sensationalism. She paints a picture of a person in extreme adversity. Lily faces the unfair malice and ill-will of others through no fault of her own. For most of us it is so important to feel the comfort of a friendly emotional climate. How awful for Lily to face untrue accusations from the rest of the world and lack the friendship of her own mother in that stressful time also.

Alf, I can only imagine how difficult your real life situation was. You can be proud of yourself because you survived and can now vent your feelings in a more sympathetic environment.

I'm eager to see how the plot develops and what happens between Lily and John.

I knew John was one of the good guys right from the beginning. As someone said--it's a romance. Besides he's sensitive to nature and caring about wildlife so he's a hero to me whatever else happens! I believe Poppy and Griffin Hughes will have a romance too.This book about the abuse by the media of innocent or even not so innocent people but of those who,I believe, have a right to their privacy is timely considering what has been done to people over the past two-four years. Marj

You are right Marj> How can one not reach out to a tall, dark handsome like our "fella?"

WELCOME HAPPYHAPPYME2000! Is this your first time in Books? I am glad you are joining us.

All of the stuff with the media in this book certainly brings up the behavior of the media with Monica for one. I think if we tried we could come up with a long list of names of people who were hounded that way. Delinsky really makes the frustration of the media's victims very clear.

Good morning SUE, M(arj), and ALF.

Marjorie

I agree about the impact of media. What is worse, she is not exaggerating at least I don't think so. Look at how they hound celebrities. Or in case of criminal trial how they are right there to catch every view of the defendent as he/she is marched in or out of court.

I too felt that John was going to be OK. You knew it when he reminised about leaving the paper in NY (hope it was NY) after doing that kind of thing to someone and regretted it. He is trying to make amends for past behavior so you have to believe that he is going to help Lily.

Besides the press, I think it also points out how people often don't help friends.....just look out for themselves. I think that is what the Cardinal and his staff are doing. Clear their case and let Lily worry about herself!

I too think something will develop between Poppy and Griffin.

I like Lily's act of pitching in to help in the cider house. I think it is going to pave the way for some understanding between Maida and her.

Anyone else busy picturing the end of this story in their own mind? I think I have it all figured out......we shall see.

This is the first Delinsky book I have read and I like it too. Will likely read more.

Northern Joan

I'll have to admit that I couldn't put the book down last night and finished it. I will try to be careful not to give anything away for those who haven't finished it.

I like Lily pitching in help at the Cider House. Working there gives her a sense of family and a sense that she can be useful, even though she had not done that kind of work before. Joan, I thought, too, as I read that section that it would lead to a reconciliation with Maida.

I also liked Lily's relationship with Hannah. It is so obvious that Rose treats Hannah in a similar way to that of Maida to Lily. Lily is able to empathize with Hannah as Celia did with her. Sue

When I was reading the part about Lily helping in the cider house, I was surprised that she hadn't worked there before. Helping out there gave her some positive memories to conteract the negatives that were going on in her life at the time. The memory of being there with her sister and sitting in a corner eating the apples their father gave them left me with a very warm feeling.

Oh, yes, SUE I agree with you about Hannah and how much her relationship with her mother is like what Lily had with hers. Lily is so supportive of her niece.

I have been wondering what a loon looks like and finally looked for and found a website about loons. There is a picture of a nesting loon about half-way down the page.

Loons

Marjorie, Thanks so much for the link to info on the loons. What a beautiful and interesting bird. I am so glad Hannah has Lily. Her mother, Rose is such a twit, but perhaps that's understandable having lived with Maida. I wonder how justice will be meted out to Sullivan--perhaps his evil deeds will be exposed, appropriately through the newspaper? Why has he made so many moves? Guess I'll have to read on. To be honest, I don't care a lot about these characters and I'm not sure why. Marj

Hey the Loon is Minnesota's state bird. It is really cool to hear them out on the lake early in the morning.

I have about 100 pages left in the book. Getting interesting.

Northern Joan

NORTHERN JOAN: I didn't realize the loon was Minnesota's state bird. When I did a search on loons, I selected the ones in New England because the book is set there. Do the loons in Minnesota look the same as the ones in my link?

Hi M.

Yes, it is the same loon. They are a very common sight on the lakes in Northern Minnesota......we have 10,000 of them (lakes) you know! Do you know that a loon carries its babies on its back? The baby does not have the spots on it. They don't seem to have more than two....usually one I think.

N. Joan

Thanks, NORTHERN JOAN. I am learning lots of things from discussing novels.

I modified the heading. If you click on Barbara Delinsky's name, you will get to her website. It is neat.

There is one scene in the book where John Kipling tells Lily some of the loon's habits. He mentions the babies riding on the parent's backs. Beautiful birds. Thanks, Marjorie, for the link. Sue

Thanks for the welcome, Marjorie. I'm having fun reading the book and I'm glad to join the discussion.

I think this book is a portrayal of the twin themes of dysfunctionality in the media and dysfunctionality in the family and their emotional effects on an individual. The story shows the misery caused by both of these problems. As I read, I thought of movies like "Absence of Malice" and, as Marjorie pointed out, the real life situations of those who may not have been so innocent but still, in the absence of a legal crime, deserved a personal life.

I'm curious though. Ms. Delinsky touches on a third theme, but so lightly that it hardly happens. Poppy is a handicapped person. Yet the problems and difficulties of living in a wheelchair are touched on very lightly, at least as far as I have read. Poppy, a very sympathetic character, is always cheery and upbeat and doesn't mention the adaptations she must have made after her accident.

The author seems to be a lady who wraps up her "causes" in an absorbing plot. I wonder if there is a reason why she developed such an admirable, young handicapped character. Maybe she's paving the way for a future look into the emotional life of a person like Poppy in a more up-close way. Anyway, something to conjecture about.

I'm enjoying the growing relationship between Lily and John. I really do love romance in a book. It's touching to see the vulnerable Lily begin to trust John. I'm rooting for Poppy to find the right guy.

HAPPYHAPPYME2000: I hadn't looked for themes in the book except for the obvious unwanted media attention one. Thank you for mentioning them. Both Lily and John came from dysfuncitonal families. I think Poppy's experience is slighted in favor of Lily and John. I have no idea about her future books. If you click on her name in the heading, her web site probably has a summary of what is coming next.

perhaps setting us up for a subsequent book about Poppy or even someone else who is disabled, HappyHappy. Perhaps she didn't give Poppy problems with coping because the story line might have veered away from Lily and onto Poppy.

The theme of the media run amok is the most important one, I believe. We have had so much of that muck-raking journalism in the recent past which has caused a real problem in our society. I think many have become cynical about people in positions of trust because of the relentless pursuit of a story which has become so prevalent in the news media. It seems that nothing is private and if details are reported incorrectly, well, just as in the book, the retraction is buried on the back page. Sue

I tried the website, as suggested, and it really is great. What a lot of books Delinsky wrote! She is a prolific, inventive lady.

I agree with you, Sue. I also think that Poppy has to remain a supporting character to maintain the integrity of the basic plot. Well, here I go, back to my reading.

I agree with you concerning Poppy. But didn't you just love Griffen when he finally saw her and said "Did you think it would matter?". That was the real tear jerker for me in that story.

And, didn't you feel kind of sorry for Maida in the end? She lived her whole life in fear that her history would be found out. Fear paralyzes people so it is understandable how she feared Lily's path would cause similar problems. I think you have to give her a lot of credit for realizing that Rose was doing the same thing to Hannah and then finally confronting her past and asking Lily to forgive her.

Northern Joan

I think Maida will probably never be the "ideal" mother, but I think she will become closer to all her girls because of her revelation to Lily of her past. Her fears paralyzed her during Lily's childhood and I think that is understandable given the circumstances of her secret. Perhaps she will be able to turn Rose away from the abuse of Hannah, although, sometimes behavior learned in childhood is very hard to change.

And I did love Griffin's remark. Wouldn't it be great if the world was populated with such sensitive men? Sue

NORTHERN JOAN and SUE: I agree with both of you about Maida and Griffin.

Really enjoyed this one which is my first by Delinsky. I liked her descriptions, especially of the lake and the loons. I've never seen or heard a loon (I live in E. PA) but I remember they were an interesting side-light of the movie, ON GOLDEN POND with Hepburn & H. Fonda. Lily is a very sympathetic character, because of the stammer and her innocence of any wrong-doing. I liked John, too. His poor father was so bitter and couldn't open-up to a son who was trying hard to make contact. I've enjoyed all the comments, too.

I enjoyed the Mother and daughter working out there differences in the cider factory, I would imigine more than one of us have had sifferences with there Mother and it was nice to see this turn out so well.

I finished Nora Roberts River's End and it was good, nothing to rave about but I enjoyed it. On a 1 - 10 I give it a 7

Hi JUDY and MEM. We are having a nice relaxed discussion of this book. Just the way I like things. I am reading Nora Robert's "Irish Rebel" right now. Apparently it is a sequel to the first book she wrote "Irish Thoroughbred" which was republished this year. I am enjoying it. I like the way you rated the book JUDY and I feel too lazy right now to do the same.

Marjorie

Marjorie, when I bought Lake News, one of the other books I bought was Irish Hearts. It includes Irish Thoroughbred and Irish Rose. Now I'll have to look for Irish Rebel!.

Judy, I think you're right about most daughters having differences with their mothers. I didn't, because my mother left us when I was six, but I sure had differences with my Dad's mother who I lived with when I was a teenager! It was sure hard to reconcile those differences because the age difference was so great. Sue

I liked the way John revealed to all, the tactics Sullivan used. The press conference worked in Lily's favor and there is a lesson to be learned, I suppose. Be careful what you do to others--it may come back to haunt you. There were parts of this story I thought were well done but I doubt I shall read any more of Delinsky. It just didn't hold my interest. I kept reading other books in between forcing myself to return to the assigned book! Is it too soon to think about the next one? I haven't read much of Stella Cameron but I received a notice from Romance Writers with an excerpt from her latest and it sounded interesting. Anyone familiar with Cameron? Marj

In answer to M's question, it is not too soon to consider the next book. I have been hesitant to interrupt the flow of the discussion. I will add Stella Cameron to my list. I haven't read any of her books. Does anyone else have any suggestions?

This morning I had CNN on and Janet Reno was holding a press conference and the questions were about the Florida vote. I don't usually set down and watch all the press conferences. I had to stop and watch her because she had such a great presence with the press. She spoke quietly and deliberately. The press asked their questions one at a time and she answered what she wanted to ask and just repeated her previous statements when she didn't to elaborate. I was impressed. Somehow this seemed as appropriate a place to comment about her handling of a press conference as any because of the press conference in the book.

Marjorie

Still waiting for my copy! You will be finished before I get it. Book club snowed under with the Christmas Orders.

Carolyn

Sorry I was premature in talking about the next book. It sounded to me as if everyone was finished with Lake News. I guess I wasn't so much recommending Cameron as asking if anyone else would be familiar enough with her work to want to.Elizabeth Lowell's series of Only Mine, Only You, Only Love,etc is good but those books may be too old. I don't know where you draw the line to make sure people can find the selection. Sometimes it's hard to find a romamce with enough depth to make an interesting story-discussion, don't you think? I see Judith McNaught's new book that was originally scheduled to be out in August, then October is now due the end of December--hopefully! Marj

KIwi Lady: I have finished the book and would be happy to forward it to you.

KIWI LADY: I don't think you should worry about being late, CAROLYN. I find this group to be very relaxed. We will be happy to have your comments whenever you start reading the book. I certainly think the main topic of "Lake News" gets more appropriate all the time.

ALF: That is very generous of you. If CAROLYN takes you up on your offer, I think you should go in the book exchange and tell them to add one to the count. It is a book being exchanged between SeniorNetters after all.

M(arj): To select a list of books for our voting last time I went to the web with the list of authors that had been suggested and checked how many copies our local library system had of different books by those authors. It was nice having the card catalogs and number of copies per branch available. I know every library doesn't have the same things. There are 12 branches in the local County Library system. It seemed that if there were 15 copies of one book vs 1 or 2 copies of another one, the chances were pretty good that the first book would be more available to all of you.

I could use some feedback here please--would any of you like to have a discussion where you could mention Romance authors to see if anyone knows them or would like to discuss them? It would be easy to set up such a discussion. You could still mention authors here. I am not trying to make lots of rules. I could have a list there of authors people have mentioned and any time anyone would like to comment they could. We could do our voting there and leave this discussion just for the issues in the current book. Well??? Comments???

Marjorie

Well I sat down and speed read it. Unfortunately I am trained in speed reading so it spoils my recreational reading! I can however go back over it again!

I really enjoyed it and thought much about what the media could do if it had a mind to!

It was a novel which altho really on a very serious topic had a really happy ending for all!

I enjoyed the characters very much and the style reminded me much of Maeve Binchy! Maeve is always a good read too!

Carolyn

I was going over the list I have of recommendations people have made in the past. CAROLYN just mentioned Maeve Binchy and she was mentioned before. When I looked her up yesterday, I realized that she wrote "The Copper Beech." That was a book I had a very hard time reading. Does anyone who likes Maeve Binchy know any titles that would be good for us to discuss? I am making up a list of choices for us and would be happy to add one of her books to the list.

CAROLYN: I am delighted that you received the book. I never did learn to speed-read. I never thought it would be a liability. Can you decide how to read and only speed-read some of the time?

Marjorie

Speed reading is a curse on recreational reading. Once you learn. Compulsory subject in my school for 5 years. Cannot read slowly! But I can read again and pick up more detail. I have got used to it now .It is great when you are at the supermarket looking for things. Perusing a leaflet accompanying an appliance etc, great for study!

Carolyn

I have a Binchey novel here that I haven't read yet called Tara road.

This has been a great discussion Marjorie. Hats off to you.

This is just IMOP but I hate to see so many new folders being created for every little thing. I think that each division that creates a new folder gets fewer posters. You know that no matter if were reading a book or not we all read at different speeds. Maybe when people read a book and think its worth while could just give like a title and 1-10 . Everytime someone mentions a book you could make a list and then when it comes time to vote put up a list and vote here. Remeber just my opinion. I would be glad to help you keep track if you'd like Marjorie

Maeve Binchy is a terrific writer, but I don't think she's considered a "romance author". Am I wrong? Anita Shreve is good, but think she might be a tad insulted to be considered "romance". The same is true of Rosamunde Pilcher who has a new book out. It's: Winter Solstice, which I haven't read yet. Don't get me wrong, I quite like "romance". The reason I do like them, is that they're relaxing because you know everything will turn out happily at the end. Sometimes, I just need to know that before I start to read. Debbie MacComber has written some good books, but I don't know if she has a new one out there.

is one of my favorites, too. I just finished the first of one of her new trilogies, Dakota Born. The second, Dakota Home, was supposed to be published in September. I think it was, because I think I saw a copy at my good old used book store when I bought Dakota Born. i wouldn't mind discussing the first one or going on to the second. I know I'll probably buy it anyway on my next trip to Tradin' Books. Sue

Thanks, Sue! I'll look for the Dakota series. I enjoyed the Texas series and really enjoyed the Alaska series, which I believe were re-released this year.

Just started a new book last night called Fly Away Home by Kimberly Cates. It takes place in rural Ireland looks like it might be good.

Tara Road is brilliant.

As for Winter Solstice one of the best books I have read lately. It has a bit of everything in it and yes even seniors romance! If you think you are past romance read Winter Solstice!

Carolyn

Kiwi lady, who wrote Winter Solstice??

Written by Rosamunde Pilcher a UK author! I have liked all of her books but Winter Solstice was the first I read through taking it from my book club special offer. I have also liked nearly all of Maeve Binchys books. Tara Road would have to be my favorite though.

Carolyn

I agree that I hate to see yet another discussion opened. Could we have a clickable in the heading that would take us to a list of recommended (by other Sr. Netters) books and authors. They could mention them here and then the hosts could put them in the list. I find myself thinking that I have to drop some discussions I now visit because it just takes too much time.

Tara Road.....I enjoyed it but remember it was an Oprah selection and all of hers get quite depressing at times. Bienchy has written some very good books but also some real bummers.

Northern Joan

Thank you for your feedback about another discussion. I will continue doing my best to keep track of the suggestions made and see what I can do about putting a clickable in the heading with a list.

Marjorie can I help you in anyway??

JUDY: Right now I guess I am doing two things. I am preparing a page with a list of books we can vote on for the next couple of discussions. If you would go back to the beginning of this discussion and keep a list of the specific books people like, at some point we may be able to come up with a way to incorporate that into all Romance headings. Thanks for your offer of help.

Marjorie

Hey, if any of you are interested in yet another loon picture.....just go to the Minnesota discussion under Geographic Communities and there is a wonderful picture of a loon with it's baby on the back in the heading there.

Northern Joan

I have to reiterate what Oprah said only today. "Some people think the books in my club are depressing but life is like that and most people do write about life experiences" I would have to echo Oprah. If I wrote about my life you would say "Oh what a depressing book" But from my life I have learned compassion and determination and received a strength I never knew I had! Most of Oprahs books do show triumph over adversity even tho the reading may be depressing to some!

As for Maeve Binchy to me all her books have been great. They are very real people in very real circumstances!

Just had to put in two cents worth!

Carolyn

Thanks for the suggestion, NORTHERN JOAN. I will go check out the picture.

CAROLYN: I am pleased you felt comfortable enough to post a conflicting opinion about an author. I don't expect everyone to agree with me. I hope no one else here expects only agreement. The world runs because of our differences just as much because of our similarities.

Marjorie

I have added a clickable to the heading with a list of 11 books for you each to choose. I think if you choose up to three books, I will be able to select books for the next three discussions. Please post your choices here. When you get to the list, you will find the book title, author, and date of publication at the top of the page. Below that is a table with the descriptions I found a Barnes & Noble for each book. The book title at the top of the page takes you to Barnes & Noble so you can check what other readers have written about the book.

Marjorie

Key West

Low Country

Dakota Born

Marjorie what happened to the Rosmund Piltcher book? Is that not considered romance novel??

My choices are: Star Flight; Dakota Born; and Fly Away Home. I just read Winter Solstice by Rosamunde Pilcher. It's a great book! However, technically, probably not a "romance" even though I found it very romantic and as Carolyn said, a great "older folks" romance is included. She just writes so very well: draws you right into people's lives!

My vote goes to With Hope, Fly Away Home, and Dakota Born. Sue

Thanks for your votes JUDY, MEM, and SUE. The reason Rosamund Pilcher's book is not on the list is that B&N only has it in hardcover. I have it on a list for the next time we choose.

Marjorie

My votes go for Low Country, Montana and Dakota Borm. I think I may have read Low Country.

I certainly am not offended if someone disagrees with my opinions of authors. None of us should be. If we all agreed there would be many fewer books in the world.

Now, did you really like Bienchy's book that had Bus in the title? Can't even remember the name, but thought it was awful. Loved Firefly Summer though. Didn't care for Silver Wedding either.

Northern Joan

What a good idea listing the books and their summaries in a separate place. I'm assuming the list will be an ongoing one--added to and books replaced as they are discussed? My choices: Key West, Sealed With A Kiss, and Crazy For You. Marj

Marj: Thanks for your comments about the layout of the list of books. I have been keeping things on my computer. The next time we need to vote, I will put the books that weren't chosen with books mentioned in the future and any that were on past lists and not selected. Should there be a limit on how many books are in the list?

Thanks for your vote, JOAN. I am keeping a running total by hand.

Marjorie

Northern Joan, I understand about having to drop other discussions as I made a choice and had to drop out of other discussions that I really liked also but I do like to read and have since being here learned to share reading with others who like to read also and have learned so much from reading the posts here that I as a reader,( reading alone with no one to share with,) that it is alowing me to see things that have missed by not sharing. We all have to make choice's in life all the time. I miss Busy Nest as Bis has so much wit and humor but the choice for me has been made. I am not asking for you to do as I have done as I am just telling you a little about what has happened to me.

With all due respect and love I remain, Ginger to you and Gingee to Gladys.

Marjorie Before I forget what I came here for Being from the far North country My vote is for Dakota Born # 1.

Ginger

We may get some more votes. As of right now, these are the votes we have. It looks like Dakota Born will be the next book. Thank you everyone for participating in this vote. I just realized I haven't voted yet. I will do that tomorrow.

Book Title	# of votes as of 11/14/2000 9pm
Dakota Born	5
Fly Away Home	3
Key West	3
Low Country	2
Crazy for You	2
Sealed with a Kiss	1
Star Flight	1
With Hope	1
Montana	1
French Quarter	0

Marjorie

Marjorie Thank you for the count.

Ginger

Yikes I hope we have it in our library if we don't it is probably not available here down under. I will look it up today on our online library catalogue. I will order it just in case it is the book! I will probably always be behind the 8 ball in the discussions because some books are harder for me to get here!

Carolyn

KIWI LADY: Did you vote yet? If you did, I don't think I counted your vote. Lots of times I order some of the books even if they are not to be discussed next. Please let me know your vote if you haven't yet voted. The next discussion won't be until December 1 so you should have some time to get the book. Unless a lot of votes come in and change things, "Dakota Born" will be our next discussion.

Marjorie

I just ordered Dakota Born online, as KMart had Dakota Home but not the former. I also ordered Heart of the Sea by Nora Roberts, which is due out 12-3. I just finished Tears of the Moon, which I liked. This interest in Nora Roberts started here when we discussed Jewels in the Sun a while back! Good day to all of you!

MEM: Thanks for reminding us when "Heart of the Sea" will be out. I will want to get a copy too. Glad you will be with us for our next discussion.

Yikes....I forgot to check to see if my library has Dakota Born! I hope so as don't think I will have too much time to read in the next week so hope to get it and get started.

Those of you who have an interest in Nora Roberts....I think Montana Sky was a good one by her.

Northern Joan

Did we read Nora, Nora?

No, ALF we haven't read that book. I just put it on my list for later. Have you read it yet?

NORTHERN JOAN: "Montana Sky" sounds familiar but I don't know if I have read it. I have read so many books by Nora Roberts it is hard to keep them straight. Who are the main characters?

Marjorie

No I've not read it, but was about to start it. If we are going to read it later on perhaps I will wait until then.

I've begun looking for Dakota Born. My library says they'll let me know when it's in. I'm looking forward to reading it with all of you. It's such fun to learn about the opinions and perceptions of others.

Is there a starting date or reading schedule yet? If the library doesn't get the book in time, I'll want to buy it.

Hi Went to my book store this morning and got Macomber's Dakota Born andFamily Man. The diviine Secrets of the YaYa-Ssisterhood. Wilbur Smith Monsoon and Richard Woodman's the Flying Squadron. Total 4.98 Tonight will finish Fly Away Home

HARRIET: We should be ready to start the discussion on December 1. I hope that will give us all time to get a copy of the book.

JUDY: You are a busy reader. "Fly Away Home" and "Key West" each received 3 votes and will be discussed after "Dakota Born."

ALF: If we do discuss "Nora, Nora" it may not be until February or so. I will put it on the list for voting after we have discussed the three books that got the most votes this time.

Marjorie

How did you come out at $4.98? You must have taken in some trades. I really enjoyed The Divine Secrets of the Ya-Ya Sisterhood. It was pretty wierd, but very laugh out loud funny! Sue

Sue I have never figured out how this works, but here in Redmond we have a terrific used book store with a range of subjects and authors that is stagering.

I receive books every month from my daughter in Alaska, who is a READER.

Some of them I don't want to read and some of them I do. Every so ofter I take them down to this store.(which by the way the lady that owns the store wants to come on to senior net) You give them the books and they give you a credit slip. Then you go around pick out what you want and give them the credit slip and they tell you how much you own after they subtract something off of the credit slip.Yesterday I had about 50.00 worth of books and they were 4.98 plus whatever she took off the credit slip. I have these credit slips all over the one I am working on now has like 300.00 worth of credit. For many years I would have never considered reading someone else's used books, but this store is so nice and the books come in so fast because of the speedy readers and are in wonderful shape. Sometimes I can't tell if they had been read or not. I can go to the grocery store and see a new book I would like to have and go to the book store in a couple of days and there it is, costs me like maybee 50cents and like bran new.

Good morning.It's unseasonably cold in NC and I hate it. Brrr. Just wanted to say we, too, have used book stores that give 20% credit of the price on books brought in. But they can't be too old and, I think now the original price has to be over $3.95. The books sell outright for 50% off.And the buyer has to pay the tax. I buy books at yard sales or library sales with the idea if I don't want it I can get credit for it. A used book reads as well as a new one. Haven't found Dakota Born yet but will keep looking. Marj

Such resourceful ideas for getting books. We have a used bookstore here. There was a time when I went there frequently. Now that I have the computer, I use the computer and buy books on eBay or half.com or B&N because I have gotten lazy. I will give some thought to going back to the used book store for books. We have lived in this house almost 3 years and I have only been to the local library about 3 times and it is a very nice one. Life sure changes. Good luck all as you track down your copy of Dakota Born.

I've got Dakota Born, but haven't started yet! If I start too soon, I'm very likely to forget details! Enjoy your turkey dinner, all!!

We have a new discussion. One for "Dakota Born." Just Click Here to get there. When you get there don't forget to subscribe.

We can still discuss "Lake News" here if anyone has anything else to say about the characters or the media treatment of them.

Marjorie

I have obtained Lake News from the Library and began reading it last night. I find the characters quite interesting. John's father reminds me of mine. My father didn't build stone fences but he was a master mechanic and thought he could repain cahs until he was in his late 80's. He did make fun of my little Japanese Honda when I drove it home and never lost his New England accent. I never had a close relationship with him.

LOUISE: Hi. Glad you could join us and I hope you enjoy "Lake News" as much as I did. Thank you for telling us about your father.

GINNY: Thank you so much for the Teddy bear and the song. Very nice.

LOUISE: Were you able to do any reading over the Thanksgiving weekend? Did you finish "Lake News" yet?

I had a cold so I stayed home and, yes, last night I completed reading Lake News. I really enjoyed it. I am originally from Boston and, naturally, have spent time visiting New Hampshire so it was like a visit back home. We did get a newspaper called the Boston Post during the week. On Sunday we got the Globe. I loved the way the story ended. They were able to do what I am sure alot of people would like to do when the Media goes on a feeding frenzy -- get revenge!!! It shows how the powerful and wealthy can go the legal route, but the ordinary person usually cannot.

I liked the way Lily finally did find herself and what promises to be a good relationship with her mother, and, of course a romantic relationship. My favorite part of the story is when Poppy met Griffin Hughes. (I got a little emotional here.)

Now if I were Lily, I would not leave my piano and BMW back in Boston. I would get them back and add on to the little cottage if I had to to make room for that piano.

I took the book back to the library this morning and found out that our library now is to be open on Sunday afternoon. Isn't that good?

LOUISE: You are lucky to have your library open on Sunday afternoon. I went to the library today and discovered that it doesn't open until noon on Monday and Tuesday. Luckily it was in only half an hour and I had a book in the car. I plan to start using the library more than before.

I got Dakota Born today and plan to begin reading it tonight. Looking forward to the reading and discussing.

By the way, Marjorie, I tried to post a message via the new link in in the e-mail newsletter and my comment refused to post. I don't know if there's a problem with the link or what. Just thought I'd pass that on.

Harriet

There was no link to Lake News in the Newsletter...just a link to Dakota Born... I hope it worked.

Does anyone have anything more to say about "Lake News" before this discussion is archived? Today is the day that the "Dakota Born" discussion starts.

Hi Readers. I have just finished reading Lake News by Barbara Delinsky. She writes so well. Her descriptive passages of the area bring such beautiful pictures to the mind. She writes of being on the lake in the early autumn at dusk being very quiet and still hoping to get a glimpse of a pair of loons who still remained before leaving for the winter. Two of the characters always seemed to go to the lake for comfort, peace of mind, meditation or whatever, and I always felt the peacefulness and the sounds of the scenes Barbara Delinsky created. I have never been to the New England States but I would like to vacation there some day.

I will always read any book that Barbara Delinsky writes and recommend her books to anyone.

Oh, she also writes good dialogue that I like in a book too.

APPLEPIE: I am glad you enjoyed Lake News. Barbara Delinsky is a great author. I really enjoyed this discussion.