Christmas Kitten Caper: A Cozy Animal Mystery (Ruff McPaw Mysteries Book 10), by Max Parrott

 

Publication Oct. 23, 2024

One would think running a Christmas tree ranch would be a relatively carefree, safe life, right? Wrong. The victim this go-round is found dead in his own barn where he was apparently tending to a litter of adorable kittens. Something of a solitary soul, set in old ways, he would seem harmless. Yet, he's found murdered? Who'd kill him? And, why? It's up to Angela and Ruff to help the Chief figure it all out before Christmas. With her mother's fading memories due to early onset dementia. Angela craves every second with her family, so she had been on vacation. Guess what ended abruptly. Yep, Angela and Ruff are on the case, this time with teacher boyfriend David, fortunately on vacation for the holidays, in tow. 

As usual, nothing is easy or straight forward in what turns out to be a perplexing case. I won't say more about the plot other than to note that, yes, there are adorable kittens involved, not to mention shopping for a tree, tree decorations, and, such traditional activities. But there's more to this case than a simple robbery or grudge. Needless to say, Angela finds herself in danger, but it isn't even her who winds up needing a ride to the hospital this time. And, man, what a unique weapon, so to speak, the perpetrator uses. I'm still fuzzy on whether that was on purpose or an accident use but it was effective. 

In any case, the ending was lovely, full of Christmas feels and promises of the future. A bit of a twist there, too. Nope, not telling. Pick up this book with its adorable cover and enjoy this quick, fun read. Thanks #BookSirens and #MaxParrott for the early peek at Angela's rather unexpected holiday adventure. I still smile at any mention of her mother's deterioration and celebrate the time spent together, gotta admit. Not bad when an author can make you feel emotions for fictional characters who actually aren't even central to the story. And, of course, there's Ruff. Always there. Always having Angela's back. I bet you can tell I enjoy this series.

A Holiday Homicide (A Secret Bookcase Mystery #4), by

 

Publication Nov. 20, 2024

This has quickly become a favorite series. The author does an excellent job catching you up on what's gone before in just the first chapter with snippets throughout. I honestly didn't much like Annie in the first book but as more of her past was revealed, it became understandable why she acted as she did and, hey, she has improved as the series has gone along. I'm still not quite sure she has the inner core makings of a true investigator but she's definitely got the skills. 

To cut to the chase, this is really two mysteries in one. One that haunts Annie, the other currently. Even worse, in the bookstore where she works with Fletcher and Hal. A celebrity baker drops dead during the big reveal of community made gingerbread houses. Young and healthy. Why? Who'd kill her? As it turns out, more than a few. Quite frankly, I found myself more interested in the old, cold case. Maybe because it mattered so much to Annie or that the victim sounds like a much more likable person than the current one. I definitely wasn't expecting the huge reveal on the cold case near the end, that's for sure. Nor was Annie, quite frankly. It'll be fascinating to see how Annie, with the help of her former criminology professor, now town detective, and friends processes all she is finding out. Pri has her back but it was great to see the relationship between Annie and Liam Donovan getting stronger every book. As for the current case, I had an inkling (I read too many cozies) of whodunit but honestly wasn't sure until the final reveal, just not how it was done. Still thoroughly enoyed the relationships between the characters and seeing Annie's growth as both a human being and amateur sleuth. Her ties to the bookshop are strong, though, so it's a struggle between past plans and her current situation.

Bottom line, as usual, Ellie Alexander has given us a delightful, bewildering, multi-layer mystery to ponder. The characters are people we could all know and mostly like. The setting is a delight and, oh, my, the descriptions of those gingerbread creations was enough to give me a yen for gingerbread. So, kudos to the author. She not only kept my mind whirling as I read but made me hungry for something I normally wouldn't be craving. Thanks #StormPublishing for allowing me this early peek into life with Annie and all those who make the Secret Bookcase shop so memorable. It left me craving the next book, too!

You Feta Watch Out, by Linda Reilly

 

Publication Nov. 19, 2024

I came for the mystery and stayed for the characters. Okay, the characters and all the grilled cheese mentions. Like the author, grilled cheese has always been my comfort food, so this series has been a hit. I like the setting, Balsam Dell, which sounds like a delightful small town, and the well-fleshed out cast of characters. Carly seems likable, smart, and certainly has other important things on her mind to think of this go-round, Like what? Well, her upcoming wedding to Ari for one. Even her morkie, Havarti, has taken him to heart and it's easy to see why. One of my favorites was missing at the start, however, so it was a special delight to see them appear later in the book. Nope, not telling but bet long time readers can figure out who I mean if I say "musician chef".

As for the murder, it was intriguing. After an fantastic opener describing the stage as the Ghost of Marley appears in "The Christmas Carol", you just knew something bad was going to happen. That said, if you're at all interested in how some of the special effects and costuming is accomplished, you'll thoroughly enjoy learning some tricks of the trade and, if you're a theater buff like me, may even forget the murder investigation for a bit. Carly can't shake her concern, however, as Gina is one of the main suspects and the only person who could vouch for the reason her prints were found at the murder site is strangely reluctant to do so. Why? No, not sharing. You'll just have to read the book. There are several suspects, from the victim's rude, bizarrely acting wife to the young understudy perhaps too eager to replace him on stage. As it turns out, the victim wasn't particularly popular with anyone, including the show's stage crews. 

Or....never mind. Enough teasers. It's complicated, to use a cliche. Can Carly juggle work obligations, I mean, yes, she's the boss but she does have to show up at times, romance, family issues, the quickly approaching holiday, and more, without putting herself in danger? Bet you know the answer to that one. Thanks #BeyondThePagePublishing for letting me jump in early to catch up with Carly and her friends. It's always fun to spend some time hanging out with them but, as usual, I always come away craving a grilled cheese sandwich. Wonder why? Grin.

Northern Lights -Aurora

 Added to accompany the previous review.

In the Winter, by Lauren Kukla

 

Publication Nov. 12, 2024

Serendipity. As I started this book last night, a friend messaged me to check the skies. The aurora, or Northern Lights, was not only active but seemed to be practically overhead. What a treat and a lovely, timely reminder of all of winter's gifts. While the aurora may dance every night, it only gets dark enough here in Alaska to see it during winter months.

This beautifully illustrated book captures the sense of wintertime, both the reality and magic. The Lights, of course, are only a bit of that magic but it was nice to see the air of reality, too, as children are reminded that winter is time for warm, cozy clothing such as scarves and gloves. I smiled when I saw the bit about the trees being resting after shedding their leaves, something we've just watched happen here. The colors definitely reflect winter as do the diverse illustrations themselves, which seem to be watercolor in style, allowing children to picture themselves in such scenes. The words are sparse but sufficient to move us along smoothly and show how how people both celebrate and prepare for winter. Both the words and illustrations were quite accurate as man and beast prepare for the long nights.

Bottom line, an excellent way to introduce children who've never experienced real winter cold and snow to what winter is like. My thanks to #NorthSouthEditions - #JollyFishPress for allowing me this early peek. Well, not of winter as we've just had our first real dusting of snow yesterday, topped off by the glorious showing of the Northern Light. Yes, winter can be cold but magical. This book captures that and reality nicely.

All's Fair in Love and Treachery, by Celeste Connally

 

Publication Nov.12,2024

Being a history buff, I must to admit to putting the book aside a few time to search out some event or name mentioned. What a delight to learn that the Asylum for Female Orphans was real, not to mention much of the unrest that plays a vital role in this book. As with the first book of the series, I did find this one slow going at times, probably partly because it takes my awhile to adjust to sorting out who is who with all the names and titles and even nicknames used. That said, just keep reading. Without me really even noticing it, the pace did pick up as the book went along. It's been awhile since I've read a Regency based book, so this may be deliberate. It didn't particularly detract from the story, which was an interesting one, but did allow me to sort out names and relationships and adjust to the pace.

Lady Petra is a likable character although she seemed quick to jump to conclusions, especially where her childhood friend and current lover Duncan was involved. I don't recall her being quite as hasty in book one but it's been awhile since I read that one, so possible. The surrounding cast of characters, from royalty, ie Queen Charlotte who directs her to investigate strange goings-on at the asylum, to her dog whisperer of a friend, Miss Charlotte "Lotte" Reed to Vera, the Dowager Countess Grimley, are an interesting lot. Street urchin Teddy is a dear and seems to have some investigative chops, so I'm hoping he'll be back next book, and orphan Nell, who claims she's due money at age 21, probably from a high society father, is also a winner that I hope will be back. Duncan, of course, who is missing for a big chunk of the book but ultimately plays a central role, remains front and center in Petra's thoughts, that's for sure. Mysteriously going missing, he leaves behind a cryptic note that does little to sooth Petra's emotions after she receives a note accusing him of murdering her former beloved. Could he be guilty of that as well as treason? Yikes.

As for the murder, it was an intriguing one. Not quite what it appeared to be. Nor does everything seem quite right at the asylum. I won't detail the plot because it's intriguing to see it unfold slowly, ever so slowly as the plot progresses, but will say it does involve possible treason and the royal family. Petra is trying to sort out her own romantic concerns, of course, while dealing with all the rest. Is the answer to what befell her beloved Emerson somehow woven into this web of intrigue? And, who are Bellowers? What is the significance of that name? Will Petra, brave but occasionally impulsive, put herself into danger? Bet you can guess the answer to that. I mean, it starts with her trying to steal a letter... from the Queen! How will it all play out? Will Duncan be a good guy or has he betrayed her and the realm? Thanks to #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for allowing me to take an early time travel capsule back to the Regency Age. The history major and mystery fan in me was a happy camper.

Like Cats & Dogs(Pine Hollow #6), by Lizzie Shane

 Publication Nov. 12, 2024

Even their pets don't get along. 

Magda Miller and Mac(kenzie) Newton have been rivals so long that not many even recall why. Quite frankly, I rather sided with Mac on this one. Him turning her romantic crush down when she was just 18 and him six years older shows character, not cruelty. That she's hanging onto that anger of rejection even now, 14 years later, made me roll my eyes. She's the one who allowed her teenage emotions to retain their grip on her, if anything, and that grip has only gotten stronger. Now they're thrown together in a baking contest designed to make sparks fly, and I don't mean loving ones, and forced to face their past. Given that this is a romance, I'm sure you can figure out how it'll all work out but, well, getting there is half the fun. If you like romances and baking shows, with a touch of quirky pets, you'll probably enjoy this book.

While, I wasn't really taken with Magda, I didn't dislike her but also don't think she was someone I'd want to hang out with. I could almost feel sparks flying as she bristled at anything connected to Mac, particularly his cat's habit of showing up in her home to terrorize her dog, Cupcake.  Mac seems to be more of the live and let live type. He even manages to make one of Magda's wildest dreams come true (Nope, don't go there. This is a closed door romance. Grin) and ensure she is part of the baking reality baking show. Although I never felt terribly invested in the contest, I'm leaning toward thinking that part of my lack of connection to the plot was simply because I've read several baking related books of late, so I don't fault the author there. In any case, the contest is still interesting, even to non-foodies like me. The perspective alternates from Magda to Mac and even tosses in one from the show runner for the baking show. Toss in some interesting friends, fellow contestants, and the show crew, and it's an interesting mix. Mac's grandmother is a hoot, that's for sure. 

Bottom line, it was an enjoyable, relatively quick read. I liked the role the pets played in the whole, too. Having read the author's "Pride and Puppies", this was a nice addition to that tale. It was definitely fun seeing Magda and Mac go from bringing out the worst in each other to bringing out their better selves in this enemies to lovers story. Thanks #Forever - #GrandCentralPublishing for giving me this sneak peek at what's been going on in Pine Hollow.

Cabinet of Curiosities: A Historical Tour of the Unbelievable, the Unsettling, and the Bizarre, by Aaron Mahnke , Harry Marks (Contributor)

 

Publication Nov. 12, 2024

Curiously fun, pun intended. As it turned out, I read this one in bits and pieces between chores, errands, and other books. That may be the ideal way to read it. As I discovered when I pushed on reading longer, the quickness of the chapters and variety of topics made it difficult to switch gears at time. I was able to take in what I was reading much better in smaller doses than large. In other words, this is one you can pick up any time, flip to any section, read awhile, and come back to later without missing a beat. The chapters are quite short although I noted lengthier ones near the end. Not being familiar with the author's podcast, I'm not sure if these were actual scripts used in the show or slimmed down for reading. They all were easy reading and usually ended with a pun, quip, or some sort of word play. I'll note here that there is a list of the sources given at the end.

As for the stories themselves, I was actually familiar with some, such as the Edwin Booth tale, but most were unfamiliar to me. One of my favorites was early on about the attempted assassination of Theodore Roosevelt. Quite a bit more detail than I recalled reading in the past, so a boon to this history major and fan of TR. Lots of familiar names will pop up but, be aware, you may not know that name until the end, such as the tales of Agatha Christie, Shakespeare, or, say, the weird connection of the coat in Wizard of Oz. I didn't take time to calculate but would say that many of the stories are actually about little known or even unknown people like the jockey who died astride as his horse won a steeplechase or the poor pilot sucked out of an airplane after the windshield went bye-bye. Amazingly, he survived thanks to quick, strong friends. There are also any number of war related tales, some about humans, some featuring animals (yes, several doggie tales within). Eerie mysteries are always fun and there are quite a few, as well as stories featuring strange coincidences, and, well, many, many more topics. It's a fun, quirky collection of tales where, if you're not taken by one, you can just move on a page or two and be into another tale.

Bottom line, if you're looking for an intriguing diversion that doesn't necessarily demand huge chunks of your time all at once, this book may be for you. It was largely an easy read. I'm thinking I may need to find his podcast and give it a listen. Entertaining and, yes, strange, or even bewildering. Some may have you shaking your head while muttering "No way!" but you'll find something to grab your interest here, I'm thinking, if you are the curious type. Thanks #StMartin'sPress for giving me early access to this diverting read. Now I need to go check out some composers 9th symphonies. Grin.

Snowy Mountain Christmas (Audio), by Sharon Sala

 Available October 8, 2024     Audio 8h 57m

When the angels talk, you listen. Well, you listen if you're smart. Fortunately, Marley is smart. She's also heard the angels talking since childhood, so it's nothing new or scary when one tells her to turn left instead of right during a horrible storm. Because she listened, she saves Trey Austin's life. No one gets her name and all Trey has to go on as to her identity is her shoe found in the mud. He begins an internet search for the unidentified Cinderella that goes viral. Hence begins this modern tale of Cinderella, albeit there's much more to it.

 I'm not going to detail the plot as part of the delight is uncovering bits of information and background for the characters as they do. Neither comes without baggage, of course, though of very different kinds. Marley is all about family and friends who are family and the traditions of running her fourth generation lodge, especially at Christmas. Yet, she has a stalker. Trey is estranged from his family which showed him little love or attention, yet is highly successful, so they are coming from different spots here. Yet, he has a closely guarded secret. I liked them both as well as Marley's friends and helpers Jack and Wanda. Marley is strong and outspoken, seemingly ready to tackle anything or one, often with her angels help. I loved the touch of angels in this holiday romance that has a bit of mystery and magic. Whether you believe or not, you'll have to admit after reading the story that we'd all wish our angels spoke to us or, maybe to be more exact, that we knew what they so often try to tell us. Corbett Lodge, owned and operated by Marley sounds delightful, and I really liked Trey's, hmm, let's just say long time helper for now. Trust me, all will be revealed as the book progresses. We get multiple points of view although they were usually easy to transition to as the speaker, or maybe thinker, was usually quickly identified in text. This gives us insight into the characters and what is important and priorities in their lives. All this with the trademark Sharon Sala heartwarming tale makes a winner.

The narrator of the audio version I had was Tyler Darby. The pace seemed a bit slow to me initially but as I gradually fell into the flow of the story, it seemed appropriate and provided contrast to times when, well, characters weren't so soft-spoken and mellow. Chapters were simply announced and there usually seemed to be a time frame indicated early on when some time passed. My sincere thanks to #DreamscapeMedia for allowing me this early listen to this delightful "Snowy Mountain Christmas". It was a thoroughly enjoyable listen.

Poppy Done to Death(Aurora Teagarden #8), by Charlaine Harris

 

I've had this one sitting around the house for awhile and decided to give it another read before donating it to the library for their used book sale. Let's just say I'm not very good at remembering whodunit. It's one of those books I didn't love but didn't hate. The characters would probably be considered stereotypes today (the book is nearly two decades old) and, boy, but one had to wonder if anyone in town was actually faithful to their marriage vows. Oh, not Aurora (Roe), she's true blue and loyal to her writer boyfriend but overall doesn't seem to judge people. we actually get a look at her family this go-round when her brother Phillip (there's a story there) shows up uninvited after basically running away from home due to infidelity there. Me thinks he chose the wrong town but Roe seems determined to do her best for him. 

As for the murder, it leads Roe to a flood of secrets in her small, Southern town. She also learns more about Poppy than she perhaps ever wanted to know, too. Poor Poppy, who was, let's see if I can get this right, Roe's step-sister-in-law (there's another story there) about to receive the honor of being inducted into the Uppity Women Book Club. She's a no-show at the induction, however, which embarrasses Roe, who does try hard to do the right thing. Needless to say, as soon as possible Roe goes looking for her, determined to give her a piece of her mind. That's when the story really starts for, as the title says, she finds Poppy dead in her own home. Equally disturbing, Poppy's husband John David is nowhere to be found. Poppy tracks him down and is soon investigating. As noted, she turns up lots of information and clues, some of which she'd just as rather have not seen or know. Needless to say, in this bed-hopping community, the suspects are frequently linked or related, adding to the difficulty. 

Okay, not detailing the plot any further. It's not my favorite series by Harris but was entertaining once you get past the infidelities of so many. Glad I picked it up for some idle reading. The ending was well worth the read.