“Locked In” by Marcia Muller

Fiction; published 2009

After getting shot by an office intruder, Sharon McCone, San Francisco private investigator, wakes up in the hospital to find she is "locked in" – that is, she can see and hear but the only thing she can do is blink. From there the story is told from the viewpoint of her husband and various co-workers and relatives as they attempt to find her shooter. This is a wonderful addition to the Sharon McCone series for fans. New McCone series readers should probably start with an earlier book, such as “Eye of the Storm” or “There’s Something in a Sunday.”

Picked by: Robin Beerbower

“When She Flew” by Jennie Shortridge

Fiction; published 2009

Like many people, my attention was captured in 2004 by news articles about Portland police discovering a Vietnam vet and 12-year-old daughter living in Forest Park. Jennie Shortridge turned her interest into a fascinating novel. Told in the voices of the girl and of one of the police officers who finds the family, the story challenges us to consider what makes a “good” family and a “proper upbringing” for a child. Shortridge breathes such life into her characters that the reader might have to be reminded that this version is fiction.

Picked by: Sonja Somerville

“The Widow’s Club” by Joyce Livingston

Fiction; published 2006

Valentine Denay is a widow and a few of her friends that get together quite regularly in her home for fun and fellowship. Then a new neighbor moves into the house next door – an old adversary and habitual scene-stealer from Valentine’s school days. There are lots of fireworks and actions mixed with a bit of suspense for a thrilling tale.

Picked by: Edena Madding

“Forever Lily: An Unexpected Mother’s Journey to Adoption in China” by Beth Nonte Russell

Non-fiction memoir; published 2007

The author accepts an invitation to travel to China with a casual friend who is adopting a daughter. But something is wrong. The friend does not seem excited about the trip; and when she meets her baby, she reacts with disappointment and withdraws. Russell then assumes care of the baby girl and begins to bond with her. What follows is a spiritual memoir that reads like a suspense novel, raising issues of fate and choice, with the life of a child hanging in the balance. This book will appeal to readers interested in compelling stories, personal transformation and spiritual growth, or international adoption.

Picked by: Betsy Romeo