Bells, Tails & Murder, by Kathy Manos Penn

 AUDIO VERSION   6h 29m

Available April 15, 2025

I'll won't belabor the plot as I'm pretty sure I reviewed the book when it was first published. Loved it then, love it now. I was seriously impressed with narrator Alex Picard. She does a wonderful job not only differentiating voices but adding emotion and capturing the tenser scenes. Heck, she even brings Dickens the dog and the feisty, often cranky cat Christie to life. Yes, the animals talk but it's just an accepted fact in this series and not seen as magical or odd. Works nicely, too, and I adore these two talking critters. 

You'll meet and surely like the regular characters. I'd sort of forgotten where Dave came into the picture, so this was a nice refresher for me. It's already obvious he's going to play an important role in the series although he still lives in the US while Leta has moved to the Cotswolds, England. Lots of book talk and literary references and you'll pick up quite a bit about collecting old books in the process of reading. I won't spoil the rest of the series for you but do pay attention to the stories of the author with ties to Peter and Wendy. Gee, bet their names give you a big hint, huh? In any case, the story revolves around Leta stumbling across a body and how her friends circle about to help her solve the crime. 

As is true in real life, everyone seems to have secrets. Leta makes many of the typical rookie amateur sleuth mistakes, such as jumping to conclusions and not sharing info post haste with the police, but it's also obvious she's a caring, intelligent woman. I liked the fact she's a columnist and hadn't quite realized how quickly she'd settled into the regular themes used until now. Rather fun to take a look back and see things you missed first time through, especially while enjoying Picard's excellent narration. Thanks #TantorAudio for gifting me the advance look back, so to speak. It was fun to be reminded why I've come to enjoy this series so much.

John & Paul: A Love Story in Songs, by Ian Leslie

 

Publication April 8, 2025

It's hard to remember a time when the Beatles weren't part of our lives. It seems like we went from listening to our big sister's records of Pat Boone and Perry Como to wanting to hold your hand. Author Ian Leslie does an excellent job taking us along on the ride, introducing pivotal characters like Brian Epstein, Derek Taylor, and all things hippy and New age. It's a deep dive into the shadows, not to mention the uneasiness of the spotlight. It was a time that changed us and the world forever.

 While I'll admit upfront to not being familiar with many of the musical terms tossed about -- aclion cadence, anyone? -- after a few pages they seemed to just waft right on over my head without demanding I stop to figure out what they actually meant. What can I say? I tend to be one of those who enjoys the music without knowing every little detail in it. That said, I'll certainly never listen to a Beatles tune again the same way. At the same time, we're taken into the psyche of both John and Paul as individuals as well as the singular entity of Lennon-McCartney. Despite the labels rabid fans were eager to attach to them, the four Beatles were complicated individuals. They went through incredible highs and lows together, certainly being prisoners of their own success and images.

I can't even begin to summarize the book. It's lengthy but don't let that daunt you. For the most part, it's an easy read and most of the names you encounter will be familiar. Actually, much of the material was familiar to me although I was delighted to discover John's discovery of a new sport in his latter days. I definitely don't want to give away that story but it was somehow comforting to know he had that in his life before his tragic death. I also came away with even more respect for actress and former McCartney girlfriend Jane Asher for not allowing herself to be pulled into Paul's life to the detriment of her own hopes and dreams. Even better, she's never written a tell-all book, not true of many.

Bottom line, I could go on and on or list countless descriptive words and phrases that popped into my head as I read but will simply wind this up by saying music and Beatles fans will enjoy this read. Those who devour every tiny mention of anything Beatles will definitely find much to ponder within. Will they agree with it all? Surely not, but that's part of the fun, isn't it? The Beatles were something different to everyone. For fans like me, who enjoyed their music and the rush of Beatlemania, it was fun. You don't have to understand the musical references or even agree with Leslie's comments to enjoy hanging out like that proverbial fly-on-the-wall as John and Paul created something magical out of a boyhood meeting. I simply didn't have the time to do so but would strongly recommend you call up the various songs as discussed and listen to them as you read, too. Since this is a book that just begs for a re-read, that's my plan for my next visit. As it is, my thanks to #CeladonBooks for sending me this advance invite for my own trip back to "Yesterday". It was magical.

The Wishes That Went Wrong, by Ross Johnson, Kiran Akram illustrator

 

"Be careful what you wish for..."

How many time have we heard that with the added caution of  "...because you might just get it"? That's just one of the lessons Leo learns after winning an old lamp at a school fair. In the process of learning his lesson, he learns to fly, nearly drowns in a million dollars worth of pennies, and realizes maybe he'd just as rather not be able to understand and talk to animals.

This was a cute, fun book with well done, colorful illustrations. I liked the fact that he did think of his parents at one point, even if his wish went astray. I'm a bit fuzzy about what happened to Sparky, who you'll meet as the story goes along, but he was cute. I mean, seriously, what would you wish for if given the chance? As Leo learns, one needs to be careful what you wish for and maybe more importantly, learn from your mistakes. In other words, be specific. The genie, the Great Whizz Bang Boom, was fun, too, even a bit sympathetic toward Leo as Leo stumbles along. 

A plus is the list of suggested activities at the end based on the theme, a list I'm sure most can easily add to as they read. While I'm not quite sure Leo learned a complete lesson since he seems to gleefully move on into the next phase of his wish making, it's still fun and can lead to some good discussions. Like, oh, what did he do right/wrong, or what wishes the child might think others would make. Thanks #HappyTalesLLC for sharing this fun book with me. Even as an adult, I have to admit it had me thinking of what wishes I'd make.

The Secret Detective Agency, by Helena Dixon

 Publication March 27, 2025

It's a good thing I took the dog out for her walk before I started reading or I'd have had a very cranky dog. While it wasn't my plan, I found myself reading it straight through with only periodic breaks (I mean, my dog insists on her treats and cannot be ignored) and thoroughly enjoyed every moment of it, even if main character Jane Treen is very obviously a cat person. While I was a bit taken aback by Jane's chain smoking and seeming lack of consideration for others, such as worsening Arthur's asthma by smoking, I found myself liking her focused, albeit often prickly personality. Being on the introverted side myself, I probably related more to Arthur Cilento's wish for peace and quiet and routine, especially routine. And, of course, we can't ignore butler Benson, who seems to be terribly efficient and almost know what is needed before Jane or Arthur do. Oh, and Marmaduke, Jane's one-eyed cat rescued from the rubble of a bombing raid prior to the opening of the story. I liked them all, even while hoping Jane cuts back on the smoking, not to mention learns not to distract him when he's concentrating on code breaking. ings

Set in 1941 England at a time when deadly German bombings were common and frequent in London, being at Arthur's safer country home should have been a nice break. Nope. Not when the body count keeps going up. Even worse, they're covert agents under Jane's watch, two of them being killed almost under her nose. Has the intelligence community of Whitehall been compromised? Are there Germans or double-agents amongst them? How to find out? Urgency is obviously of the utmost importance but it seems like for every clue Arthur, Jane, and Benson find, there's another incident or death. Like what? Not telling, you're just going to have to read the book. Our three sleuths/spies show initially unseen sides of themselves as the story progresses, including skills that prove helpful. I found it interesting which of them remained the cool, calm head, too, not to mention Benson's foresight in toting along Arthur's medical kit to treat his breathing problems. I really want to know more about Benson, I must admit.

Bottom line, this series quickly hooked me. I liked the characters and the setting. The author also does an excellent job reminding us what being caught in a bombing raid was like with it's sudden randomness and death. I also have to admit to smiling when it noted they had lunch near Paddington Station, ie a connection to Paddington Bear. Totally unrelated but fun. I did seem to have a bit of trouble sorting out the side characters initially but realized without thinking about it that I'd done so, hence not a real issue. And, oh, boy, wait for that final action scene. That was unexpected, not to mention discovering who Jane's mother was. Oh, boy, thanks #Bookouture for this early intro to the Secret Detectives. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with them and am looking forward to their next case together.

Punctuation to the Rescue, by Cheryl Olsten

 

What punctuation mark would you be?

Perhaps you'd be direct like the period.

Or, maybe you'd prefer to weave longer, more complex sentences together like the comma.

Tell us!

Okay, that's it for my burst of "cleverness". Seriously, I admire the author for how well she was not only able to create distinct characters for the four basic punctuation marks but have each of them stick to their characteristic chatter. The illustrations were colorful and lively, with each character showing a unique personality and various reactions. Feeling unappreciated, they set out from their lighthouse library for a vacation on a fun island. Only one problem. Well, more than one. They run into a few sailing problems, including a nasty shark and wind up on the Island of Chaos instead. Why Chaos? There punctuation is ignored and words and creatures run amuck. Check out the various characters they meet, all shown running about creating mayhem. Seeing the chaos their absence can create, the four punctuation marks decide to stay long enough to restore order and, in the process, realize their own importance. 

I enjoyed the story and have to admit to laughing aloud when Question Mark asked the age old question of "Are we there yet?" Definitely a unique way of introducing children to the importance of using correct punctuation. Although aimed at young readers, I can actually see where it might be a hit with young adult readers or, heck, adults, too. It's whimsical and full of quirky characters while sharing a teaching moment (or a few). A delightful combo of words and pictures. Thanks author #CherylOlsten and #FleecydalePress for sharing this with me. I thoroughly enjoyed it and will be sharing with teacher friends and others who might enjoy it.

Sydney, Bean, and the Missing Gloves, by Janice E Collins

 

Just like children, dogs are often frightened of the unknown. They may try to appear brave but, well, aren't. This book does a lovely, subtle job of showing young readers that it's okay to be afraid, asking for help isn't a weakness, and, finally, that working together to solve problems is the best approach. It does this via the story of Sydney, the Labrador Retriever, and her unexpected new little Labrador sister, Bean. Sydney does her best to accept Bean but isn't happy about it, even when Bean swears to be the best little sister ever. Much to Sydney's surprise, comforting Bean seems to also comfort her and she manages to sleep through a storm. Then, uh-oh, mother's beautiful pearl gloves have gone missing. It seems Sydney has had a problem with shredding and burying such items when scared, so she's the natural suspect. 

That's when the story really takes off. Bean knows Sydney didn't do it as Sydney slept right there beside her all night. Bean vows to help Sydney find the gloves. Unfortunately, Bean is naive and soon falls pry to the wily neighborhood cat. It's never quite clear why Monty the junkyard cat sets out to trap Bean but the motive of bullies isn't usually really known, either. Sydney recruits help as she searches for Bean, help that includes Sgt. Riley the retired police K-9. Again, the idea that having help when you most need it isn't a weakness but a strength. Wait till you find out why a ferret is part of the group. Heck, even some squirrels and birds get involved. Love the sweet nod to a baby's first tooth via the baby bird's first lost feather. In any case, while I'm not sure how Monty managed to trap Bean, it's fun to see the group come together and work to save her. 

Bottom line, a cute, fun read, though would have probably targeted a bit older audience although it'd work as a read-aloud, too. The illustrations were well done, showing personality, and add to the feel. The teacher in me liked the subtle use of the dogs to show how young children may feel and act, not to mention work together towards a common goal, in this case saving Bean. And, oh, let's not forget the bonus benefit that helps Sydney when they finally return home. Thanks #AtmospherePress for sharing this sweet introduction to Sydney and Bean, not to mention all their friends and, okay, even Monty. That junkyard cat is surely not done playing with the doggie's minds.

Goats Afloat, by Lezlie Evans, Julia Patton (illustrator)

 Publication June 1, 2025

Wonderfully silly with equally quirky and silly illustrations that will have you grinning and finding something new hidden within each read.  In my mind, I realized I was getting a Dr. Seuss vibe as I read, aloud of course, and chuckled at the five goats' misadventures. The playful vibe runs throughout, even when the goats seem to encounter danger although you may be so busy scanning the illustrations on each page to see what you can see or read the little signs that pop up here and there to fret over the cartoon danger. 

Kids are going to love this one, especially if you (or the children themselves) have a bit of the dramatic and can get into the goofiness of the rhythm and rhyme. The text is even scattered about at times, no designated spot reserved, such as when it seems to flow down the river with the boat. Colors are bright and, well, colorful, and each of the goats seems to have a distinctive look, a plus in my mind. Their intentions are good, of course, to take a birthday cake and gift to Granny but, oh, no, they're scared to cross the bridge and encounter the scary troll, so they hatch a plan of jumping into a boat to get there. Needless to say, their plan doesn't exactly work out but that is where the fun really begins. I won't run the fun by detailing the story, which actually contains several teachable moments, but will say to keep your eyes on not just the bouncy rhymes but the illustrations. See who or what you can spy as you join them on their journey. The beaver is just the first. And, hey, what a surprise they're in for at the end when they meet Granny's guest.

Serious fun. I loved this. The illustrations are whimsical and funny in themselves, plus the unexpected sights you will see as you cruise along, not smoothly, let me assure you. The teacher in me can't resist pointing out the subtle nods to not making assumptions based on appearances, planning ahead, and adapting to situations as they evolve. Problems solving is definitely emphasized although, well, let's just say the goats don't necessarily excel at that. Bottom line, this is one I can envision grandparents loving to read to their grandchildren over and over, finding something new to enjoy each time. Thanks #TwoLions for allowing me this fun sneak peek at these goofy but adventurous goats. It was a fun read, both aloud and the times I kept flipping through to see what else I might see in the illustrations.

Gramps' Nonsense Poems, by Michael White

 

Is anyone surprised it was the corgi on the cover that sucked me into this book immediately? It was also the first poem I flipped to and read and was, as expected, not what most would expect. Instead, we have a poem about the Queen's corgis being, uh, unable to hold it in while riding in the Queen's royal vehicle. Since I'm convinced my Daisy considers herself royal by sheer corgi breed connection, it made me grin. Not that Daisy would do that, of course. 

That was my introduction to a fun, even silly read. And, don't think that's an insult to the author. He says in his intro that that is exactly what his poems are meant to be, fun and entertaining. I think I'd have liked him as a grandfather. Kids love silly stuff, though I note a few more serious thoughts that made me think creeping in amidst the silliness. Or maybe nostalgia, such as the tribute of a sort to ol' time horse drawn plows as opposed to our modern mechanical machines, done with levity, of course. I enjoyed them all, even the Geometry Party, but I loved the thought pattern of My Shadow being attached and only free of us when we leap and that maybe elves and goblins make the Cobwebs we inevitably run into somewhere along the line. Oh, and walking a squirrel. Something tells me my Daisy, who considers the resident squirrels her nemesis, wouldn't find that one funny, however cute it is. 

Bottom line, designed to be fun, which the illustrations add to, and does a good job doing so with ideas and whimsy that will surely appeal to children. Thanks #Troubador for the gift of laughter and ability to revert to my goofy child-self for a bit. The made me think and laugh.

Murder at Hideaway House (Eve Marlow Mystery Book 14), by Clare Chase

 Publication May 7, 2025 

How far would you go to achieve a long time desire?

Although I occasionally find myself annoyed with Eve for her obsessive curiosity and use of her job, writing obituaries, to question suspects, I also enjoy this series immensely. What can I say, I'm a sucker for character driven books and this series has a set of well developed regular characters and even the background of suspects seems to be nicely fleshed out. As a result, it's understandable why Eve sometimes finds it hard to approach someone as a suspect when, well, that person is a friend, someone she likes. Everyone has secrets, however, and, oh, my, there are a ton of them in this one. What seems like a normal renovation job leads to murder and explosive secrets unraveling families and associates. Nothing simple about this one. 

Who killed Duncan Blake? I won't detail the plot but it is full of twists and turns involving those secrets, obsessions with the past, affairs of the heart, shady business deals, shattered hopes and dreams, families being ripped apart, adorable, much-loved children, and it seems like everyone is lying. How will Eve sort out who did it when even the innocent may be protecting others? It was nice to not only see that Eve has gotten good about having backup but that Eve and new husband Robin work so well together, even if it did remind me that I seem to have missed a few books in the series. Robin was still sort of keeping a low profile last book I read, now they're married and he's able to be open, even if his gardening know-how doesn't seem to have dimmed. They were invited to Hideaway House so Eve could write a review of the facility, which is what started this whole investigation for Eve. Needless to say, the usual gang of friends is on hand to help sort it all out and you've got to love Moira's sleuthing personality. Oh, and I can't forget Gus, Eve's adorable dachshund, who provides his own kind of assistance.

Bottom line, a top-notch mystery with memorable characters, both good and bad. You won't feel much sympathy for the initial victim, though, that's for sure. That's said, I found myself warming to the various suspects, even the guilty party. Takes a talented author to make readers feel that way, I'd say. Thanks #Bookouture for this early peek back into Eve's life, a reminder to me to do some catch up reading. Library, here I come!

Bodies and Battlements (The Ravensea Castle Series, #1), by Elizabeth Penney

 

Publication May 27, 2025

Having thoroughly enjoyed the author's previous books, I was primed to enjoy this one from page one. For the most part, despite an unexpected slow start, my anticipation was justified. The only real issue I had was that I wasn't at all fond of main character Nora Asquith initially. Probably understandable as she is just about to open the doors to Ravensea Castle's first paying guests. Yes, in reality, romantic as a castle might appear to live in, they are expensive to keep up. As a result, Nora decided to transform a portion of the historic, supposedly haunted castle to paying guests. It's been a long, tedious process to not just ready the castle but jump through all the bureaucratic hoops placed in front of her, not to mention that her own sister, actress Tamsyn Asquith wasn't really in favor of the move. So, why is Tamsyn there? And, who is this couple showing up and expecting to stay that didn't reserve a room?  Then Hilda Dibble, a local who not only opposed the conversion of the castle but tossed repeated roadblocks in front of Nora shows up. What is she doing there and why was she in such a hurry to suddenly leave? That's just the beginning. Things begin to happen, not to mention Sir Percival, one of the resident ghosts, makes his presence known and then, yikes, the next morning Nora finds Hilda's dead body near the fountain in the garden. I'd say her endeavor to save the family home isn't off to a good start although, hmm, the dog-owning guest Nora found attractive, Finley Cole, turns out to be a detective. Well, at least he on the spot of the crime immediately.

Things get complicated fast. I won't detail the plot any further other than to say it's an intriguing mix of old world charm with the castle setting, cute pets, ghostly interventions, an endangered family legacy, shady deals, secrets and more secrets, twists and turns, and, ahh, budding romances. I ultimately liked the characters once we got into the book, even ghostly Sir Percival, who you'll warm to as you learn his backstory. They all have secrets. I'm hoping to learn more about Nora's plan to create and sale items like soaps and herbs made at the castle, too. Nora's family seems solid, albeit her father seems to fall into the stereotypical scholar/researcher/professor role while being able to spin a great story of the castle's past. Will Nora be able to sort out whodunit? Will she drive Finley nuts in the process? 

Bottom line, although it took me longer to fall into the story than expected, I found it an intriguing read and am looking forward to seeing where Nora's adventures take us next. I mean, we get to hang around in a genuine castle, with lovely gardens and a view, so not exactly a hardship. Also have to admit, I'm going to be curious where the romances lead. My thanks to #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for this early introduction to Ravensea Castle and all its inhabitants. Something tells me this series may quickly become a "must read" for me. Great characters, intriguing mysteries, fun pets, and a few ghosts drifting about. Give it a read!