Bridie laid down the book she'd been attempting to read.

She laid the book down on Prudence's desk when the girl was out of the common room for a minute.

Before very long the children were asleep: Howard laid down the book and slept for an hour himself.

Does he ever chain the reader's interest & make him reluctant to lay the book down?

I lay down the book and go to my well for water, and lo!

She laid the book down on the podium and lifted her hands.

Felix laid the book down on the table and hugged her tight.

When the cheese was placed before them, Poirot laid down the book on the table and the eyes of the two men met.

He laid the book down on his knee and stared at the stove.

He laid the book down on his lap and closed his eyes.