The Dry by Jane Harper

Good presentation of locale, strong character development,  astute description of small town prejudices all work together in this well written novel.

The Lemon Tree by Sandy Tolan

Wow, this was a very difficult book to read because it introduces us to two people who hold very divergent views about the horrific Israeli/Palestinian conflict, one a Palestinian man dispossessed of his family home, the other an Israeli immigrant whose family bought his "abandoned" home. These two people meet, and over decades exchange their experiences and beliefs in this narrative that also describes in detail the historical events that lead to the current impasse and tragedy taking place in Israel and the Palestinian lands it occupies. The sadness, the hungering for peace and justice are palpable. Although published in 2006, this book is valuable reading because it clearly explicates the history of a conflict on-going and even escalating in 2017.

In a Sunburned Country by Bill Bryson

Delightful travelogue and introduction to Australia that convincingly conveys the author's delight with Australia, its vastness, "what a preposterously outsized country this was", and its many unusual sights. He extols its diverse attributes even as he acknowledges its relative anonymity on the world stage. Several exploratory visits encompassing lengthy drives around this vast island enable him to knowledgeably describe this incredible country. Leavened with humor, the narrative moves at a pleasant pace that keeps the reader ever engaged.

Dinner at the Homesick Restaurant by Anne Tyler

Really enjoyed this book. Thoughtful narrative about family dynamics. 

Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet

Wow, what a lovely, poignant story. I savored every word.

Bruno, Chief of Police by Martin Walker

Really enjoy this series. Bruno is a well developed, appealing character. He is a policeman in a small French town who knows and cares about the community he serves. He resolves problems diplomatically whenever possible. Each book in the series raises an important issue to consider as the plot unfolds. Vegans beware though because he cooks and eats meat, in fact food and wine descriptions are an integral part of the narrative.