A Very Merry Murder: The Malvern Mysteries, Book, by Kate Wells

 

Publication Sept. 3, 2025

Buckle up your seat belts. This one takes you on quite the rollercoaster ride. Not only is there a murder and long list of suspects but, well, there's a question about who was really the intended target. This was my first read of this series but it won't be my last. Jude Gray's farm has been selected as the site for a filmed Christmas special. Unfortunately, Jude is beginning to wonder if that was a good thing or bad. Sure, she likes the money she'll earn but, well, maybe she should have read the contract more closely. Even worse, the producer is arrogant and way too handy with his hands if you get my drift. Then there's a near disaster, closely followed by a murder. And that's just the beginning.

I won't detail the plot other than to say it moves along at a steady pace and is full of surprises, twists, and turns. The regulars are quite likable and even the pertinent film crew is nicely fleshed out. Note that I said fleshed out, not necessarily likable. Besides the heartless producer, there is a storm brewing amongst the crew and the outcome isn't good. Any of them or all might have a motive for murder. watching Jude and friends sort it all out is fun. Well, maybe I should say interesting as I'm sure Jude wouldn't consider it fun. She also has her animals to deal with. We even get a bit of their personalities. Rodney Trotter emerged as my favorite critter, gotta admit, though the ducks aren't really good at getting in a row. 

Bottom line, I'm definitely hooked. I enjoyed the characters, with Grannie Margot, who seems to run the senior center and has a sharp analytical mind, probably being my favorite. Also, young Sebbie, who delighted in the odd places Jude hid his elf leading up to Christmas, not to mention springing it on his mother the morning of the school's holiday play that he needs a costume for it. Does that sound familiar to any parents out there? Jude's bubbling under the surface attraction to Marco is fun to watch play out, too, especially since Clara, his current girlfriend, is a friend. Who said living in a small town was simple. Kudos to Jude, btw, for sharing info she stumbles across quickly with detective friend Binnie, who is on desk assignment due to a prior incident.  Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for intriducing me to them all with this early peek at the current goings on. I'll definitely be catching up with the series. I thoroughly enjoyed it and, hey, we got to pet some fun animals and even take a tractor ride. Grin. 

Ask Scarlett: Can Being Outside Help Me De-Stress? And More Questions about Nature and You, by Rebecca Baines

 

Publication August 5, 2025

Full of fascinating tidbits and information.While designed for younger readers, I feel we older ones might just as easily enjoy and learn from it.  Not only is the information, which ranges from weather, both normal and extreme, to animals (even the mole rat gets space), houseplants, how pets may help out health, as well as headaches, foods, and more. Seriously, it's all tied neatly to the outdoors. I liked that though they frequently pointed out that there was scientific info to back up their statements that they didn't go into minute details in the text. The kept it simple and easy to digest and understand. There is a resource list at the end for those desiring to do a deeper dive, plus a glossary of terms and a quite extensive index to make it easier to find particular topics of interest. 

The book is illustrated with both cartoon like images, ie Scarlett, and photos which are credited at the end. Young readers should find them interesting and even charming, at least I did. There are even some crafty projects suggested with instructions at some points which will add to the fun. Bottom line, quite informative in a fun, easily read manner, and full of fun, colorful pictures. Thanks #AmericanPhychologicalAssociation for sharing this early look at a book that I highly recommend to both teachers and adults with curious, inquisitive children. Another plus is that while I ultimately read straight through, one can browse randomly or use the various guides to find desired info. Seriously, teacher friends and outdoor lovers, add this one to your bookshelves to share. 

The Sisterhood (Lady Emily, #19), by Tasha Alexander

 

Publication Sept. 23, 2025

This was my first read of this apparently long running series. That said, while it ultimately worked as a stand-alone, I felt like I would have known the two leading characters far better had I read earlier books.  Bad me. I enjoyed the main characters, well, most of them, and always love my virtual visits to Edwardian England, even if the status conscious nobility frequently annoys me. All that aside, I don't think this was the book for me as the alternating timelines kept throwing off my focus. Honestly, being new to the series, I had no clue why we were suddenly back in AD 60 when a murder had just taken place in 1907, England. Although it ultimately made sense, I obviously need to shy away from books with this trait as it really broke my concentration and, quite frankly, frustrated my "I wanna know who did it!" fixation. Some readers won't be bothered by this at all, of course, making the book a 4/5 star for them, though for me it kept it at a 3.5 rounded to a 4 star.

As noted, I did wind up quite enjoying meeting Lady Emily and her husband Colin Hargreaves. While the book didn't focus much on their relationship, it appears an excellent one, with lots of understanding, patience, and support. There's even some humor. I applaud Colin for not simply strangling her snobby, very annoying mother. Let's just say, even while understanding Edwardian society pressures and its expectations, she got on my last nerve. I do wish I knew more about Colin's ties to the king, however, so I'm going to have to do some catch up reading. My other favorite character was Sebastian, ironically a thief, albeit a charming, devilishly one. He seems to go way, way back with Emily, claiming an undying love, a relationship that, again, I need to sort out. He may be a thief, but he's charming and I have to admit, I sort of enjoyed his tweaking of the system and readily being willing to share the weak points he utilized in his thefts with Emily and Colin.

As for the murder, it happens early on. I was actually rather taken with the victim, so a bit disappointed to see them killed off so soon. The final reveal was actually rather shocking but made sense based on all we see and learn. And, no, I didn't guess it early though the clues were certainly there. The 60 AD story threw my sleuthing game off. Yeah, that's my excuse. Oddly enough, I think I'd have found that story line intriguing on its own given my own history buff tendencies and the role of horses in Vatta's life. I did know the gist of the story of the ancient warrior woman, Boudica, so it was interesting to read more about that era, confused as it left me initially about its connections to the 1907 mystery. And, the title will make sense to you as being symbolic as the story progresses. You'll also be reminded that being popular isn't the same as being liked. 

Bottom line, while not quite the book for me, it intrigued me enough to have put a couple of the author's past books on hold at the library. I liked the relationship between Emily and Colin, especially in comparison to some of those surrounding them, and want to know more. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for sharing this with me and letting me know what I've been missing.  

Edam and Weep, by Linda Reilly

 

Publication July 22, 2025

Character driven, this was a fun read. Carly Hale is beyond busy planning for her upcoming wedding when not only does she still volunteer to take part in the fundraiser rather than take the easy way out and just donate, but husband-to-be Ari's sister Leslie arrives unexpectedly with her niece Quinn. It's explained in the story so let's just say that Leslie hopes to adopt Quinn but there are complications. Speaking of complications, having her mother become a suspect in a murder definitely complicates things. 

I don't want to give away much of the plot, it's a solid, intriguing one with lots of twists and turns and revelations that will keep you reading. The murder of the rude, unfriendly, and demanding Brice Keaton after the local high school's fund-raising event was a shocker. Even worst, her mother was caught on video telling him off due to his behavior and, worse, the murder weapon seems to have been a scarf that was part of her fifties related costume for the event . That's makes her a suspect since the video went viral online. No shock that Carly is drawn into investigating, even if she does swear to Ari that she's going to limit herself to internet searches. We all know that promise was going to be quickly broken. At the same time, Carly is dealing with Leslie's sudden arrival and situation. That Carly's dog Havarti immediately takes to Quinn and vice versa is both a plus and minus, of course, but it does help endear Quinn and the situation she's caught in with her Aunt Leslie to us. Actually, we learn enough about Brice, the victim, to even have some sympathy to him despite his entitled and rude behavior at the fund-raiser. 

Bottom line, a  relatively quick read with characters who seem like they could be our own neighbors or family. I wasn't crazy about mother Rhonda's initial attorney but overall even he wasn't a problem, just an odd distraction. Carly and Ari are a solid, loving couple and Carly's workers at the grilled cheese specialty shop are all quite likable. I was glad to catch up with Grant, the cello artist who has given up music school to train as a chef. He's got to be one of the great guys of the world to work his now regular job but still jump back into working at Carly's shop to free her up for, well, everything. As noted earlier, you just knew she wasn't going to be satisfied just doing internet searching. And, hey, long time readers, you're going to learn why Don won't eat grilled cheese sandwiches! Thanks #BeyondThePagePublishing for this early peek at Carly's hectic life. Loved the ending and that thoughtful gesture made. I liked the author's dedicating this to animal rescuers everywhere.

Woody's Words: Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Grows, by Lisa Jean LaBanca Rogers , Susan Reagan (illustrator)

 

Publication Sept. 9, 2025

It's been awhile since I last read "Where the Red Fern Grows" but it still makes me smile when I remember it. Smile and feel the urge to reach for a box of tissues. That said, I must admit to knowing next-to-nothing about author Woodrow Wilson Rawls prior to reading this book. I'm now feeling the urge to dig out my old copy of the story (with some tissues handy) as I read it again with fresh eyes and more knowledge about how it came to be. 

Whether you've read "Red Fern" or not, I don't want to divulge too much of this book about it's author. Teacher friends, it should be a must. Same with dog fanatics everywhere.  A thoughtful, insightful look into what made Rawls a writer. It wasn't an easy life. In fact, he spent some time in jail but it ultimately sounds like wife Sophie was his savior and inspiration. A budget analyst for the Atomic Energy Commission, she was not just his biggest booster but typist, proofreaders, editor, and, well, much more. 

Rawls beloved dog book was first published in the highly regarded Saturday Evening Post before appearing in full book form. While barely educated himself, Rawls, a true story-teller, made thousands of promotional appearances, frequently at schools in front of children. It sounds like their words of appreciation only fueled his drive to write. Is the story 100% true? You'll have to read the book to find out. You won't regret it. While aimed at children from 7-10, my hunch is dog and book people of all ages will find it a good read. There's a lengthy bibliography at the end for those who want to take a deeper dive as well as, in addition to the illustrations, both b/w and color photographs. It was a plus to note the contributions of family members. Thanks #AstraPublishingGroup for allowing me this early peek at this intriguing, delightful story. It brought back many memories and I loved the inclusion of a photo of the statue of the book's Billy Coleman and his hounds that stands at the Idaho Falls Public Library. 

Death at the Village Christmas Fair (The Cotswold Curiosity Shop #3), by Debbie Young

 Publication August 16, 20

This was my first read of this series so I can vouch that it works well as a stand alone. Alice Carroll is preparing for her first Christmas in her new home, a celebration that includes not just the traditional Christmas Fair but a Santa Run. Her mother is visiting and Alice is looking forward to a peaceful holiday celebration with her relatively new beau, Robert who, as we find out, has money. Lots of it. That's beside the point, however, as he's genuinely likable and low key about his status. To be honest, though, Alice can't help but be a bit subdued by his wealth as, well, what do you buy someone who has the money to buy about anything he wants. She's also a tad uncertain about her status but they do seem to work well together, especially when it comes to sorting out whodunit in a murder.

So, who killed Clive and why? Strangled with a scarf stolen from the booth owned by Alice's mother, Alice is naturally interested. I won't spoil the plot any further except to say there's an interesting twist to the crime. If you don't know what Netsuke is, you will by the time you finish this book. It was rather fun to learn a bit about this art form as well as some aspects of museum collecting and investments/sponsors. I liked the cast if characters and you'll easily figure out who is who and the relationships they have with each other. Some are rather naive, even Alice at times, but they come across as good people that are easy to root for. Robert's granddaughter, Tilly, was a standout, and I'm guessing that Alice's mother may be sticking around based on her so easily fitting into the knitting community. She's one fast knitter, too. The village of Little Pride might be said to play a role, too,  with both positives and negatives.

Bottom line, while somewhat slow in pace, I wound up enjoying the book. The characters are a real plus with them seeming to be real people prone to think the best of others. And, of course, there's that blossoming romance between Alice and Robert. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for giving me this early peek at Alice's world and the doings of Little Pride. It was fun to imagine the Santa Race, especially the slower paced, not so athletic ones, and loved the giving spirit of the community, and the mention of Paddington Bear and toggle buttons was a bonus. Made me remember my grandmother's button jar.

My Brain Is Like a Puppy, by Laura Filtness

 

Publication Sept. 16, 2025

This is a fun story with many layers. First, having had puppies in my life, I can testify that puppy Boss is very much a true puppy. Boss is full of fun, mischief, hyperactive one moment and zooming about, then plopping down and stubbornly refusing to be easily moved the next. He wants to please but is impulsive and easily distracted by, well, pretty much everything. Let's just say, self-discipline isn't a strength for most puppies....or children. That's where this book comes in.

The bond between Boss and first-time dog/puppy/owner Brooklyn is close. And, as Brooklyn slowly realizes, they also share many traits, not all of them good. Yet, her focus on Boss helps her recognize them and realize that many of the same tactics she's trying to ingrain in Boss will also benefit her. As Boss goes through training to earn his Canine Good Citizen award (yes, that really is a thing) the story alternates between Brooklyn's loving understanding and frustrations with her impulsive, stubborn, but adorable pup and her realization that she has a lot in common with her challenging pet. It's handled well and the illustrations add to the layers as we follow the fun rhymes. Metaphors, anyone?

Bottom line, this deceptively simple story of a girl and her rowdy puppy works on all levels. It's a fun story that can be read as just that, a fun story. It might also help open a child's eyes to how their own actions can be "trained" through focus, perseverance, and how to control both emotions and behaviors that, like Boss's wild child puppy behavior, isn't desirable. Again, the tips at the end are wonderful, direct and easy to understand. Thanks #BoysTownPress - #IBPA for the early peek at this layered look at taming not just a rambunctious puppy but helping children learn to navigate their world, too. 

Earth Rover, by Taylor Woolley

 Publication Sept. 9, 2025

Absolutely adorable and, shh, educational, too. You'll be rooting for Rover to fulfill his dream of becoming a NASA Rover. After all, he has a head start. His human works is part of the NASA space agency. And, as Rover says, he can dig up rocks with the best of them and won't tip over among other skills he perceives as important. He even writes a letter to NASA laying out his credentials and, whoa, gets a response. What we get is a fun, frequently humorous story and lots of doggie related puns/jokes. 

The illustrations are simple, colorful, and add to the layering of the story, somehow managing to convey Rover's personality and hopes throughout. As noted, you'll pick up quite a bit of genuine information about space exploration as you read. The addition of an information section at the end is a bonus and will help tie things together and perhaps offer answers to questions asked of parents reading with their child. This would make a lovely gift as well as earn a well deserved place on a library shelf or teacher's classroom. Children with an interest in space, dogs, and just adventure with a twist of humor will enjoy this one. Thanks #Familius for allowing me an early peek at this entertaining and grin inducing read. I spent much of my life in Florida where I could simply step out the door and watch launches soaring overhead as they cleared the trees, so I found this one a fun read.

My Grandma and Grandpa Rock!, by Pat Benatar, Neil Giraldo, Tiffany Everett (illustrator)

 

Publication Sept. 9, 2025

A colorful, beautifully illustrated, and, yes, cute book for children. I've always like Benatar's music, so this collaboration with husband and music collaborator Neil Giraldo was a big yes from the time I spied it listed. While their role as rocking grandparents might seem to get the spotlight, I liked that it also made the point that no matter what your own grandparents might do, they all rock in their own ways. The illustrations add to that, depicting items symbolic of various roles non=rock-n-rollers might take, from being a rock star cookie maker, taking you fishing, teaching or, well, simply loving their grandchildren. Benatar and Giraldo depict different cultures, too, an added plus, as grandparenting has no boundaries. Kudos to them for empathizing that grandparents come in different guises, colors, and may speak different languages .... or like different music. 

Bottom line, the text flows.... I'd love to hear it set to music .... and should be a hit with both child and grandparents everywhere. Lots of fun rhymes and illustrations showing not just the Benatar/Giraldo family in action but "average" grandparents with an emphasis that they all rock, too. Seeing the various names used to indicate Grandma and Grandpa was fun and their note that there are other names used out there, too, was a subtle nod to inclusion of all. Thanks #SourcebookKids  and #NetGalley for allowing me this early peek at this delightful book by Benatar and Giraldo with the help of illustrator Tiffany Everett who brings the scenes to life. I always knew they rocked as musicians so it's nice to know they are rocking their grandparent roles, too. 

Mince Pies and Murder (The Morwenna Mutton Mysteries Book 3), by JR (Judy) Leigh

 

Publication August 23, 2025

Morwenna Mutton is smart and obviously in great shape for her age. I marvel at the idea that not only does she find swimming in frigid water great fun but there's an entire group of residents who join her. Not her own mother, mind you. Nope, no polar plunges, so to speak, for Lamorna. Ex-husband Ruan is drawn to the water, yes, but seems to prefer boating atop it. In any case, Morweena is fiercely protective of her family. Her moments with granddaughter Elowen, who remains feisty and self-centered, are frequently a hoot. There are a lot of characters to take in, some important, some just passing through. Kudos to the author, by the way, for including not only a glossary but a characters list with a brief description at the beginning. I found that most of the terms used were easy to figure out but did need to refresh my memory on characters. Wait till you meet Lady Elizabeth. 

Overall, the side characters are likable, even the seemingly cranky ones, and it was fun to revisit Seal Bay again and spend some time boating. As for the murder, it does put a damper on the holiday festivities. The Christmas party sounds both interesting and chaotic with people roaming the Pengellen's manor home seemingly at will. That gives us a long list of suspects. Heck, could it have been an accident? Good thing the local police were actually at the party (in costumes, no less) although Morwenna, in her usual way, manages to do some snooping before they can even get to the scene. And all this before the random visits from the sinister Santa and not so jolly Santa Claus cards sent to some. 

That's about all I'm going to say about the plot, it's a complicated one with twists and turns but, hey, we get to watch a couple relationships bloom at the same time, so it isn't all bah humbug and whodunit. Watching Morwenna fret over mother Lamorna's budding romance was both sweet and sad, especially given her own confused feelings. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks and #NetGalley for the early invite to catch up on the doings in Seal Bay and among Morwenna's friends and family. After that ending, definitely looking forward to Leigh's next in this series.