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Air date: July 21, 2024
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JESSICA:
Hi, this is Jessica Russell. I’m the assistant director of collection services at Sno-Isle Libraries. And welcome to Book Buzz.
Today's reading recommendations both include two female characters whose paths cross, leading to unexpected consequences.
First, we’re going to hear from Robyn, library associate at the Stanwood Library, for a witty story of friendship and self-discovery. Go ahead, Robyn
ROBYN:
“Someone Else’s Shoes” by JoJo Moyes is a compelling tale that weaves humor, heartache, and the transformative power of stepping into another’s life.
I enjoyed this novel because it follows the lives of two women, Nisha Cantor and Sam Kemp, whose fates intertwine when they accidentally swap gym bags. Nisha, once living the high life, finds herself abruptly cut off and scrambling to maintain her status, while Sam, burdened by the struggles of everyday life, discovers a newfound confidence with a pair of high heels that were never meant for her. Their journey is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the strength found in human female friendship.
Moyes’ narrative is a celebration of second chances and the courage to embrace change. With a Goodreads Choice Award nomination for Best Fiction in 2023, this novel promises to be a rewarding read that will leave you both laughing and reflecting on the power of empathy and connection.
Dive into “Someone Else’s Shoes” and walk away with a renewed sense of hope and the undeniable truth that sometimes, the best way to understand ourselves and others is by walking a mile in someone else’s shoes. A story full of Moyes’ signature wit and warmth, this book is not just a journey — it’s an experience not to be missed.
JESSICA:
Thanks, Robyn! This book is a wonderful depiction of friendship and women supporting each other.
Next, let’s hear about a deadly type of friendship, from Evelyn, library associate at the Camano Island Library. Over to you, Evelyn.
EVELYN:
“Kill for Me, Kill for You” by Steve Cavanagh is a psychological thriller based on “Strangers on a Train,” which is a 1951 Alfred Hitchcock movie based on a 1950 Patricia Highsmith book. It is based on the idea of switching murders with someone else to quell suspicion. And this concept has been used in numerous books and movies.
In this book, two grieving women, Wendy and Amanda, decide to swap murders to avenge the death of their children. They meet at a support group meeting for parents who have lost children. After the group meeting, they go have a drink and this is where they concoct a plan to commit the murders.
I enjoyed the book, and it kept me guessing. The book is told from several different points of view to convey the details of the story. There were a few twists along the way which kept it entertaining and the author does a good job of keeping you guessing throughout the book. It was interesting to see how everything came together. If you read a lot of thrillers some of the twists are predictable, but overall, this is a new twist on the concept behind “Strangers on a Train.”
JESSICA:
Thanks, Evelyn! If a thriller is inspired by someone else’s work, it may as well be the master of suspense Hitchcock.
Our recommendations this week are: “Someone Else’s Shoes” by JoJo Moyes and “Kill for Me, Kill for You” by Steve Cavanagh.
Join us next time, when we’ll explore more great reading recommendations — interesting books you can find at your favorite local bookstore or at your local library.
Until then, I’m Jessica Russell from Sno-Isle Libraries.
Thanks for joining us for Book Buzz on KSER.
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