The Penelopiad, by Margaret Atwood

" 'The Penelopiad’ by Margaret Atwood is a unique retelling of Homer’s epic poem ‘The Odyssey’ through the point of view of Odysseus’ wife, Penelope. Atwood mixes myth with modern writing, and, while paying homage to the ancient Greeks, she gives the story of Penelope and Odysseus a much-needed feminine perspective."

Murder on the Orient Express, by Agatha Christie

"I thoroughly enjoyed reading Agatha Christie novels when I was younger. However, it was only recently that I read ‘Murder on the Orient Express.’ The first chapter reminded me of why I enjoyed her books so much. Her stories captivate the reader from the beginning. Hercule Poirot, one of Christie’s most famous detectives, is traveling from Syria to Paris on the Orient Express. He finds one empty room on the unusually full Calais Coach. People from all over the world are present in this crowded car and it’s a diverse environment. Snowdrifts halt the journey during the night. In the morning an American is found dead and it’s Poirot’s job to find out who on the Orient Express committed this murder."

A Christmas Visitor, by Thomas Kinkade and Katherine Spencer

"Characters from Kinkade’s Cape Light Series face numerous ‘surprises’ this Christmas. Molly & Matt, newlyweds with a blended family, face the adjustment of a surprise baby just as Molly’s catering business is prospering. Another character, Miranda, stumbles across an injured man with amnesia. Her surprise comes in an attraction to a man who can’t remember his past. And Rev. Ben uncovers an angel statue and decides to display her for the Christmas season. Word gets out that the angel has miraculous powers, turning his peaceful little church into a tourist attraction. Christmas doesn’t always bring the things we ask for, but sometimes it brings gifts more wonderful than we dreamed"