Smoke, Mirrors, and Murder: and other true cases by Ann Rule

Recommended by JoAnn

364.1523 RUL

True-crime writer and former cop, Rule, continues to shock with her collection of seven fascinating cases, all involving domestic abuse. She retells each case based upon her research of the facts during the trials, interviews, and second-hand information. Overwhelmed by the sheer number of abused women, Rule gives her e-mail address in the effort to stem the tide of affected women and children.
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Ponzi's Scheme: the True Story of a Financial Legend by Mitchell Zuckoff

Recommended by JoAnn

B Ponzi

Charles Ponzi, an Italian immigrant in Boston, ran a bogus investment scheme in 1919-1920 involving postal currency. About 20,000 investors spent $8-10 million before he was imprisoned and eventually deported.

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Against Medical Advice by James Patterson with Hal Friedman

Recommended by JoAnn

B Friedman

Stepping outside of his usual genre, best-selling author Patterson teams up with Cory's father, Hal, to tell Cory's story of his battle with Tourette Syndrome and OCD. Diagnosed at age 5, Cory spent the next 13 years at the mercy of doctors as they struggled to find the perfect balance of drugs to achieve a relatively normal life. Supported by his loving family, Cory eventually overcame the downward spiral with shear determination and perserverence. A heartrending story with a triumphant ending.

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Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant

Recommended by Jean

FIC Dunant

A romantic novel with political and religious emphasis. The reader really gets a feel for what life was like as a citizen of Florence. It also examines the role of women in that society. A great read.

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