A Spirited Supper at Dundoon Castle (A Food and Spirits Mystery Book 2), by Darci Hannah

 Publication Jan. 27, 2026

This was my first time reading this series and I'm delighted to say I enjoyed it thoroughly. While I lean toward thinking I might have fallen into it more quickly had I read the first in the series, ultimately that didn't matter. The author easily catches you up on what's gone before without you really even being aware of it and makes it a solid standalone.  Although I'd never say I'm into paranormal books, the characters in this one are appealing and it's fun to watch a new to her psychic abilities Bridget/Bunny MacBride both floundering and overcoming both her lack of experience while sifting through clues both physical and spirit based, let's call them. I liked Bunny and her bunny friend, which you'll learn more about as you read. There's more to that story than a cute little rabbit, trust me. Her reality show crew is fun and well-fleshed out, even the not so prominent ones this go-round. Of course, it was delightful to meet her family, especially Ella/GrannieMac with her own set of other-worldly abilities. And, hey, she's even got a doctor as a beau, so she's quite personable and there to support and assist Bunny as needed.

As for the murder, on the surface it seems to be a "who killed one of the bagpipe judges", one who just happened to have been a personal bagpiper for the late Queen? That whole scene is sorta spooky, especially the appearance of a "fairy dog" while they're out ghost hunting. I have a corgi and myth claims its the breed used as mounts by the fairies but this dog, whoa. Big. Scary. Frightening bark. Glowing red eyes. Toss in a seemingly constant barrage of bagpipe music as the bagpipe contest goes on and, well, add a fog and a drunk ghost...who knew ghosts could be drunk? .... suspicious contestants and even residents around the castle and it's the perfect setting for Bunny and her crew to suddenly find themselves playing detective as well as ghost hunters. Well, Bunny would argue that she's merely the chef for the "Food and Spirits" reality show but, well, she always seems to be right there on the front lines despite enjoying her time with co-host Brett Bloom. So, toss a slow burning romance into the mix of romantic tales of castles and warriors, loyalty, fairy dogs, mysteriously flying objects, the smell of whiskey, and, well, so much more, and you've got a feel for the story.

Bottom line, I obviously loved it. Not only were the characters distinctive and likable, but the author does a wonderful job describing not just the castle grounds but its interior and, let's call it, aura of the Scottish history it all takes place in. I honestly don't want to give away too much more of the plot, it's far more complicated than it appears with multiple layers, but will say you'll learn a great deal about not just Scottish myths and history (be sure to read the author's note) but come away with a solid base of how bagpipes not just operate but their history and how contests are judged. Thanks #KensingtonPublishing and #NetGalley for introducing me to this series and giving me an early peek into what seems to be some monumental change in not just Bunny's life but that of those who surround her. Oh, and lots of butterflies. Loved their appearance. 

You’ve Lost That Livin’ Feelin’, by Nicholas George

 

Publication Jan. 6, 202

Rather a leisurely pace but the characters, banter, and music references kept my attention. Adam Parrall and wife Shawna make an interesting, likable pair. Former rock stars, now retired, they seem content to live quietly in the small town of Cordoba. Well matched in temperament and ambitions, they both may crave a bit more excitement after days of their rock'n'roll glory but, well, they're also happy. But, hmm, when the opportunity to perform again is thrust on them by circumstances, Shawna, in particular, has lingering doubts. Then the murder of Righteous Brothers tribute singer Barry Haddon happens as they wait to see his most recent appearance and Adam is the one to find the body. They're pulled into an unexpected role as amateur sleuths. Well, mostly Adam. He's the one to embrace the rush of being part of something new albeit Shawna finds herself pulled in via, no lie, her cooking class. Shawna needs to keep her day job as a realtor, I think. Not being a serious cook myself, I chuckled at her inept efforts, gotta admit.

Along the way, you'll meet family and friends of both our duo and the victim. Let's just say, they're an, uh, interesting, quirky bunch. Could one of them be a killer? Like Barry's wife? And, why do so many knives keep popping up? Who is their mysterious new neighbor? I don't want to give away more of the plot but will say it involves, let's see, prepping a house for sale, a robber the local press has dubbed the Blade Runner, lots of rock'n'roll mentions, even The Archies, Adam's odd award nomination,  a rookie cop with untried theories, music promotion, nostalgia, and red herrings galore. Lots of quirky characters along with the importance of making life choices. And, more.

Bottom line, despite the slow pace, I enjoyed the book and will be looking for the next. I liked the characters, even some of the less likable ones had reasons to root for them, even the surly teenager who wanted to be a drummer. Wonder if Adam will regret offering drumming lessons? I'd also like to know more about the goings on in the maybe deceptively sedate Cordoba. Here's to both Adam's radio show and record shop doing a booming business and Shawna's realtor efforts being equally successful. Oh, that doesn't mean I don't want to virtually see them on stage again, even if Shawna reminds us that age means the back and legs aren't as ready to rock as her heart might be. Thanks #SevernHouse for the early introduction to this quirky but delightful pair of rock'n'roll amateur sleuths. It was fun to be in their shoes virtually for a bit. 

Murder on a Frosty Night (A Lady Eleanor Swift Mystery Book 24), by Verity Bright

 

Publication Dec. 8, 2025

The characters in this series are why I keep coming back. From the husband wife team of Eleanor and Hugh to their trusty butler (and now partner in their detective agency) Clifford, down to Gladstone the Bulldog, they're all well-fleshed out and distinctive. Oddly enough, I find that the relationship between Lady Eleanor Swift and her "knows what she wants before she does" butler Clifford the most fun. The banter between the two of them is sure to bring a smile to your face, even with his well timed jabs at her habit of having a, uh, healthy appetite. Husband Hugh, er, Sir Hugh Seldon, aka former Chief Inspector at Scotland Yard, is there but seems to have the straight man role more so than Clifford, so he's oddly enough often more of a restrained personality than their butler/partner/friend. Together, the make up the Bryon Detective Agency which embarks on one strange case. 

It's Christmas Eve and people are gathering at Henley Hall but, well, they want to make this agency a success, never mind that it involves making a long, difficult journey in the snow that same evening because they must arrive before midnight to accept the case. Miraculously, they do. Only one problem. Their client is no where to be found. Then, while strolling over to the local church for Christmas Eve services, they stumble over a body. It's Inigo Osmund Unwin draped over a tombstone. Oops, he was apparently their client. 

I won't really detail more of the plot except to say it's a complicated one. Let's face it. It started with complications and only gets more so. The hamlet of Yorelow, where they'd been summoned, is small but there are more than a couple likely suspects. Along the way, as they follow one lead after another, meeting some eccentric characters in the process, you'll learn about the hurdy-gurdy, early gramophone recordings, the history of midnight mass, Darwin, and even Pandora's Box...and more. And, for long time readers, never fear. Eleanor's ladies, aka "The Aprons" do make a memorable appearance. Don't forget to read the Historical Notes at the end. They're always a highlight for this former history major. Thanks #Bookouture and #NetGalley for introducing me to this delightful trio of sleuths and all their friends and associates. I'm hoping this series is able to continue for a long time despite the death of the female half of the husband/wife writing pair.

 

Carrie Ingalls: The Forgotten Sister, by Clarissa Willis, Kashif Qasim (Illustrator)

 

A solid, informative read. It just wasn't as personalized a tale as I'd expected, I guess is the best description I have. That said, you'll learn quite a bit about the real life Ingalls family, including Pa's wanderlust. I lost track of how many times they had to pull up stakes and more again. True, that wasn't that uncommon back then but still a reminder that the usually sunny days on "Little House on the Prairie" aren't the full story. 

I also have to admit that I had no real knowledge of what Carrie did in real life as an adult. I may have heard vaguely that she worked for a newspaper but had no clue what that really involved. Type setting in those days was a tedious, lengthy chore and she prided herself on her accuracy while being allowed to write the frequent story for the paper. What a thrill that must have been to typeset her very own words. It is noted that not only weren't women often involved in such activities but the fact she bought her own property and was a female land owner was discussed. Like Laura, she once worked as a teacher, too, but found it not to her liking. She obviously was made of strong stuff. She did marry what would have been considered late in life at the time but spent most of her first three decades making her own way. Mary does get a mention but her blindness is simply stated as one more hardship the family shouldered with love. It obviously had an impact on the entire family, especially her sisters who had to suddenly assume Mary's share of the chores and such.

Bottom line, I found it an interesting read and found the illustrations well done and appropriate. I'm fuzzy on the art style but they called to mind the artwork I've seen done for Laura's books only this time in a simple woodcut (not sure if that's the right term) style to remind us of a more simple time. It would make a lovely addition to libraries everywhere. Thanks #SolanderPress for allowing me this quick trip back in time. I've always been fascinated by the West and what better way to visit than by dropping in on the Ingalls family. 

The Devil in the Details (A Sherlock Holmes Bookshop Mystery, #11), by Vicki Delany

 

Publication Jan. 6, 2026

I find myself always a bit of a weird combo of annoyed and amazed in a good way at Gemma's mind. In this case, annoyed that she didn't seem to be giving Jayne her full attention despite seemingly being the one charged with doing several chores to prepare for the upcoming wedding. True, one has to admire her ability to think on her feet and delegate tasks to others but, well, there are expectations of being a bride's maid, too. Good thing she's got organized, dependable people on hand to take up the slack. Also, while she's definitely made huge strides in controlling her own tendency to appear superior, she's still got a ways to go. And, you've got to admit that anyone who'd dive into frigid waters to try to save someone takes guts. I'm definitely not liking her meandering out at night and trying to sneak into a potential murder suspect's home...alone...however.

Nope, not really going to share how this all came about, but there is definitely lots going on in this story. Wedding planning should rule but, well, she's still got a business to run, worries about Bunny's flirtation with a new guy who may or may not be legit, concerns for friends who may be struggling in many ways, and more. All while pestering people and confronting them to ask pointed questions. Detective boyfriend Ryan is already stressed when removed from the murder investigation due to friendship with the initial suspect, though glad to see he's working hard to keep Gemma and her impulse problems safe. All this said, I've grown to like not just Gemma, even when annoyed with her, but her circle of family and friends. True, Moriarty, her cat, still doesn't seem to like her but she's grown on me. 

Bottom line, an enjoyable read that moves along at a steady pace, managing to create some vivid images of, uh, unusual wedding reception wear, let's say. Lots going on behind the scenes, too, including tension in the restaurant's kitchen staff. The investigation is bogged down a bit due to, well, missing Ryan's input and more than one investigation. And, of course, amidst the murder talk, it wouldn't be a Sherlock Holmes Bookshop mystery without lots of talk about Holmes and trying to keep up with Uncle Arthur's travels, which seem to happen in the blink of an eye. If you like clever mysteries with an equally clever sleuth, albeit a frequently annoying one, you'll enjoy this one. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for allowing me this early peek into Gemma's always interesting life. It's always fun to catch up with the characters and see if Gemma's social finesse has improved. Unlikely. Grin.  

Murder Most British (The Secret Detective Agency Book 3), by by Helena Dixon

Publication Nov. 6, 202

Lady Jane Treen probably wasn't expecting an wartime undercover government job of being her mother's piano accompanist at morale boasting radio recording sessions. But, that's where she finds herself this go-round. Of course, Arthur Cilento and Benson, his assistant/medical caretaker are along for the ride. One has to figure Benson didn't expect to be doing undercover jobs as a janitor, either. Their task is to ferret out who and how secret information is being transmitted to the enemy via secret codes worked into the programming. That's where master code breaker Arthur comes into the spotlight. One person has already died because they knew too much, so time and secrecy is of the utmost importance. Then there's another murder.

I won't detail the plot any further other than to say you get an excellent look at life in wartime Britain in London, 1941. You'll also get a glimpse of some of the hardships ordinary citizens endured, from having to maintain the blackout while still getting around wintertime London in the dark. Jane spends lots of time going and coming by bus, which usually means a crowded, uncomfortable trip even under the best of circumstances. It's no wonder she's always happy to get home to her one-eyed cat Marmaduke who shows his devotion to her in this installment. Unfortunately for Arthur, occasionally taxed with feeding him, he's not as friendly to men. Let's just say, ouch, those claws are sharp. 

I've liked this series from the start but am happy to report that Jane has really grown on me. As Arthur notes at one point, she's decisive, brisk, and swift moving, never flinching in the eyes of danger. And, shh, I think she's beginning to grow on him, too. Well, if her smoking and quick pace doesn't kill him first. His asthma hinders his physical involvement although he rarely lets it stop him completely. And, of course, Benson knows just how to deal with it in the aftermath of over exertion. It was interesting to see Jane spending more time with her actress mother, a relationship that is, oh, let's say cautious and tricky at the bet of times. We do get some insight into her mother, albeit limited still. She obviously may have more than a few surprises left for us. The supporting cast this go-round is pretty much tied to the radio station and it remains to be seen if they'll be repeat characters. It was fun to watch Arthur's mind struggle with the code while Benson discovers a few helpful hints in his undercover role, too. As for the villain, I had them on my list but wasn't sure until the end drew closer and closer. Fanaticism knows no bounds, obviously. Bottom line, an intriguing mystery with characters who are showing growth as we get to know them better. Thanks #Bookouture for allowing me this early read of this fascinating bit of time and activity that, while most of us know vaguely existed, we really know little about. I definitely liked Arthur's sneaky way of protecting the documents at one point.

Ain't Nobody's Fool: The Life and Times of Dolly Parton, by Martha Ackmann

 

Publication Dec. 30, 2025

I think a lot of people underestimated Dolly Parton. They assumed she was just what they saw, all sequins and sass but, well, blonde and probably not all that talented or smart. Even record companies turned her down in her initial quest for a contract. Boy, did she fool them. As the title says, Dolly Parton "Ain't Nobody's Fool?. 

Dolly Parton is definitely one of a kind. Although never a rabid fan, I have enjoyed her music for ages and, quite frankly, didn't expect to learn much new here. Boy, was I wrong. Carefully and thoroughly researched, this book does an excellent job of not only re-introducing us to Dolly Parton the person but pulling many of the threads that wove together to create the phenomena that she has become today. She's definitely an inspiration and has helped so vary many, not only financially and professionally but to grow as humans. It's easy to point to, say, her creation of Dollywood as an example of her giving but one has to wonder how many it has not just brought joy to but inspired. How many jobs has it created that aren't directly related? Not all of her giving makes headlines of course, like her donation toward the creation of a covid vaccine did, but she put her money where her mouth was. In the process, she helped save lives in more ways than one.

I won't go into detail but will simply say that if you're even mildly curious, this would be a good resource. The author obviously admires her subject and if the long list of footnotes is any sign, wants us all to get to know her better. As a teacher, I've always admired her work with literacy, putting books into children's hands, into libraries where they're accessible, and simply encouraging reading. Nothing was handed to Dolly Parton on a silver platter, you'll read about some of the problems, hate, and negatives she faced her, but she persisted and used the gifts she'd been given to create the whole and we're all the better for it. Thanks #StMartin'sPress for allowing me this early peek at an amazing woman. 

Murder from A to Z (Mystery Bookshop #11), by V.M. Burns

 

Publication Jan. 27, 2026

It's obviously been awhile since I've read this series but I felt at home again quickly. I liked the main characters of Samantha/Sam and her lawyer sister Jenna. The supporting cast is rather large, admittedly, but I took notes as needed and found myself able to connect relationships fairly easily. Boyfriend/fiance Frank Patterson seems to be not only a marvelous baker but capable of being scary to suspects, an interesting combo, especially when you toss in Frank's friend and former military buddy, Garrett, a sniper who has done "scary things". I think that means they were super spies or Seals or something akin to national security. The only thing that seems to frighten Garrett is Irma. Nope, not telling you why. You'll just have to read the book.

As for the murder, it begins with secret code being sent via eye blinks. Before any real response can be mustered, however, Alva Tarkington is dead and her family seems to be more interested in when they'll receive their inheritance than showing any sadness over her death. The only one who seems to have cared is Isabella, who plays an important role in the story. I'm not going to detail the plot further but will say it involves family drama, lots of it, art, shady business dealings, senior sleuths, the importance of estate planning, and, oh, yeah, the FBI gets involved. And lots of food. You'll pick up lots of info on art, especially painting, including art theft and forgery from as far back as World War II. Let's just say, Sam has her hands full sorting it all out.

Bottom line, despite having obviously missed a couple books, I thoroughly enjoyed this story. It's quite character driven and the regulars are well fleshed out. Nana Jo is definitely a force to be obeyed, that's for sure. And let's not forget Snickers and Oreo, the two now senior cats of the story. Thanks #KensingtonPress for the early peek and reminder to me that I need to catch up on reading. I always enjoy the two-for-one concept as we get Sam's current mystery strewn throughout the current one, a real plus. Rather cool to see a bit of Winston Churchill vs Neville Chamberlain's appeasement approaches. 

All My Bones, by P.J. Nelson

                                                                                        

Publication Dec. 2, 2025 

This book would be a great guide to life in a small Southern town, at least in most cozy mysteries. Having once lived in the South, I can attest to some of it but, well, thankfully not all the quirks of Enigma, Georgia. Gossip flows fast and it almost seems like everyone is related or at the very least knows everyone else. And by that I mean, both their good and bad. But, hmm, no one knows how Bea Glassie came to be buried in the front of the Old Juniper Bookstore. Oh, they know about her past romances, what books she reads, and that the Glassie family money speaks loudly, but not who killed her. Madeline/Maddy is determined to find out, however, not just because the skeletal remains were found in her bookshop front yard but because her best friend, local Episcopal priest Gloria Coleman, is accused of being the killer. Never mind that evidence is almost non-existent. Bea's entitled sister, used to getting her way because of her family's wealth (and threats to use it), accuses Gloria and as far as she's concerned, that's that. Family influence and power mean the local law and even state bureau of information are practically forced to arrest Gloria and throw away the key. Maddie, therefore, faces a huge task. 

While I wasn't particularly fond of Maddie in book one, either she's mellowed a bit or I have. I'm still not sure I'd enjoy her company but, well, she's growing on me. She still jumps to conclusions and acts impulsively, such as visiting her suspects alone, but, well, she loves her cat and books. Grin. She's also surrounded by some of the quirkiest characters you can imagine. There's Dr. Philomena Waldrop, a college professor and her late aunt's best friend. Uh, well, let's just ignore the fact that Phil, as she is usually referred to, burned down the gazebo at the shop on what I seem to recall as Maddy's first night in town. She's seemingly been in and out of the loonie bin, her words, not mine, but is smart and seems to genuinely care for Maddy. Maddy also has a blooming relationship with master gardener David, who had a hand in Aunt Rose's Ophelia's Last Laugh roses. Oh, and local lawman Billy Sanders seems to be prone to philosophical and profound sayings, showing there's far more to this good ol' country sheriff than what might meet the eye. Gloria's past is slowly emerging, too, and priest or not, she has certainly had a colorful life. Maddie's employee, Jennifer, shows depth, too, so am wondering how her spot will be filled when (if?) she leaves for Tate Modern for her internship there. Actually, all the characters had some solid backgrounds, even the not so likable ones, so an excellent job making this character driven reader a happy camper.

As for the whodunit, I won't detail the plot. There's small town rumors, secrets, quirky characters, the role of money and small town politics, and lots of literary and book talk dispersed throughout. Hey, Maddie runs a bookshop. What did you expect? Oh, and was an actress, too, so lots of theater references. Needless to say, she does have a flair for drama. Wait till you see the big reveal. Nope, not sharing. Read the book. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #Minotaur for introducing me to Maddy, skeptical as I originally was, and allowing me this early peek at how she's growing into her role as both an amateur sleuth and small town bookshop owner. 

100 Rules for Living to 100: An Optimist's Guide to a Happy Life (Audio), by Dick Van Dyke, narrated by Tom Bergeron, with intro by Dick Van Dyke

 

AUDIO, Narrated by Tom Bergeron with intro by Dick Van Dyke        7h 27m

I loved it. With an introduction from Van Dyke himself and Tom Bergeron, a favorite from his time on Dancing With The Stars, as narrator, it was a winner. He captured Dick Van Dyke well. So well, in fact, that it was easy to forget you weren't listening to Van Dyke himself. The pacing and generally upbeat lilt, for lack of a better word, to his voice added a great deal to the story. I'd actually read the print version (I'll paste that review at end) and enjoyed it, but in this case I'd say if you can only get one version, go with the audio. Sections that I had enjoyed but didn't particularly jump out at me in print had a new vibe, er, life in audio. Bergeron does an excellent job capturing voice changes when Van Dyke was writing as a character, such as the old man in Mary Poppins, too, a real plus. 

The pacing was upbeat, capturing the upbeat spirit hopefully conveyed, and it was easy to lose myself in the story as if I were sitting in an easy chair listening to Van Dyke/Bergeron talking to me like an ol' friend as we looked through old photos. That's basically what this book is, after all, a verbal photo of Van Dyke's life and memories, both good and bad. He doesn't shy away from the bad stuff, just puts it in its proper place, as a learning tool/memory, so to speak, that maybe doesn't define him but helped mold him. He says early on that his goal is to lift us up, to take care of us, so to speak, and one thing that I caught here that sorta passed me by in the print was his perceived role as protector to his little brother. So, that role is something ingrained in Van Dyke from an early age. 

On the technical side, while chapter numbers are narrated, the various "rules" are introduced via the title. They seemed to do an excellent job not only preparing you for what is to come but summarizing what you were about to hear, too. I found Bergeron a delight to listen to, which reminded me he got his start in radio, I believe, so he's perhaps naturally suited to this task. Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoyed this audio journey back through Dick Van Dyke's memories and wisdom sharing via Tom Bergeron's voice. Thanks. #HatchetteAudio - #GrandCentralPublishing for sharing this early listen with me. We could all use more positivity in this world and Van Dyke's book is a reminder that it's out there, even through the not so good times. Original review below. 

**********

Delightful. Just like Van Dyke. It felt pretty much like an ol' friend simply sitting in my living room sharing stories and memories. In other words, very readable and personal. I liked the fact that despite the title, he emphasizes early on that there are really no set rules. Instead, you'll get lots of  stories that seemed to encompass his entire life. And what a life it has been. I'm pretty sure my first intro to him was via the Dick Van Dyke Show but have followed his career off and on over the years. How cool was it to see his appearance in the recent, updated version of "Mary Poppins" with Lin-Manual Miranda essentially playing his past role as Bert. 

Dick Van Dyke's optimism and humor shine through. I've been lucky enough to have read a couple of his past books, including a biography where he divulged that despite the smile and humor we saw on screen, his life wasn't always clear sailing, so it was wonderful to see he's living his best life nowadays. True, as he notes, to use a phrase borrowed from elsewhere, old age isn't for sissies. He admits to the aches and pains and associated with aging, his challenges of the past, his losses, and to the loneliness as old friends leave us, not to mention his cheerful admission of forgetting the lyrics to songs at times. Given that here he is, nearly 100, singing with an a capella group called the Vantasix, it made me grin to imagine him losing the melody but finding it eventually without shame. Almost sounds like it could be a television show, huh? You rock, Dick. 

I won't detail the "rules for living" he shares, more like things "I've learned in nearly 100 years that may or may not apply to you but may amuse you", so you can discover them for the first time personally. His love of family, especially his praise for the role wife Arlene has played in his life, is touching, as are memories of his family and former friends and co-stars. I opted to just read and enjoy, to be honest, so don't have many notes to share. For me, and I think for others, Dick Van Dyke has accomplished his main goal, to lift us up by sharing a piece of himself. And, oh, I just grinned. Sat down to type and realized I've been running around barefooted, which he'd obviously approve. It's called earthing, he notes, and he highly recommends it. So glad I've been following this bit of advice much of my life. Thanks #GrandCentralPublishing for giving me an early peek at this absolutely delightful tale. Dick Van Dyke continues to inspire and lift us all up.