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Taking Manhattan by Russell Shorto

Richly detailed story of the origin of our beloved NYC and the enormous influence of the Dutch. Enjoyable for reading or listening. A.

Lucky Loser by Michael Kosta

I enjoy Kosta's pieces on The Daily Show and I play a lot of tennis, so this book was an easy choice for me. Highly recommend the Audible version. Kosta is funny and self- aware, but does love to remind you that he is a better tennis player. Amusing and a nice respite from current events. A.

Wild Dark Shore by Charlotte McConaghy

A family living on a deserted island south of Australia guarding a seed bank. A woman washes ashore. This is a really good story that kept me guessing to the very last bit.A.

Red Dog Farm by Nathaniel Miller

Atmospheric story set in western Iceland as a boy comes of age and finds his path forward. A raft of interesting characters including the farm on which he lives. A delight. A.

The Oligarch's Daughter by Joseph Finder

You know how I love a Russian thriller and this one fooled me. Cannot say any more. Also fun as an Audible. A.

Saltwater by Katy Hays

Story of deception and intrigue set in beautiful Capri. The yacht crowd is beyond different from the rest of us, and maybe that is why we enjoy seeing them grifted. A.

Kills Well With Others by Deanna Rabourn

The sequel to Killers of a Certain Age, but you do not need to have read the first book. Fun, globe-trotting adventure with female spies who have not aged out of their basic instincts. Great Audible or a beach/poolside read. A.

The Jackal's Mistress by Chris Bohjalian

Admit it, Bohjalian knows how to tell a tale. A.

The Cafe With No Name by Robert Seethaler

Set in Vienna in 1966 as Europe is still recovering from WW II, this international best seller is chock full of interesting characters who interact with Robert as he resurrects an abandoned cafe. A.