What to Read: Book Reviews From Real Simple Readers

Blackberry Winter, by Sarah Jio

Reviewer: Angelica Martin; age 26; single; Los Angeles.

Angelica’s assessment: This terrific novel alternates between two compelling narratives. The first is set in Seattle in 1933: An impoverished single mother kisses her young son, Daniel, good night and leaves to work the night shift at a hotel. When she returns early the next morning, Daniel is missing. The second plot follows Seattle Herald reporter Claire Aldridge in 2010, as she learns of Daniel’s long-ago disappearance and vows to bring justice to his family. An intoxicating blend of mystery, history, and romance, this book is hard to put down. Just be sure you don’t rush through it, though.

To buy: $15, amazon.com.