North of Ordinary: How One Woman Left It All Behind for Wilderness and Wonder in Alaska's Frozen Frontier , by Susan Aikens

 Publication March 10, 2026

Although I've certainly heard of Life Below Zero and Susan Aikens, I sometimes think I must be one of the few Alaskans who has never watched even one episode of Life Below Zero. As a result, other than the well documented bear attacks, I knew very little more about her other than that she was living a rugged life. As such, I was instantly pulled in from the opening chapter. Aikens struggles began long before Life Below Zero. I'm not going to go into detail here because I don't want to dilute one word of this astonishing tale of struggling not just to survive against the odds but thrive and find her place in a sometimes inhospitable land. This is her story and although I lean toward thinking some sections were glossed over, it's an amazing one. 

Alaska itself, of course, plays a starring role. I could instantly identify with how small and alone she must have felt as a child left alone here. Even in the best of times I have frequently pondered how, while we all need to be reminded at times that we're not the center of the universe, that there is life within the emptiness and grandeur and, yes, frigid cold where she lives north of the Arctic Circle. I've been to Fairbanks, south of her turf, in the winter and learned what -40 degrees felt like.... it wasn't great but was also amaizng to realize one could survive it .... but I was surrounded by people and had a cozy, well heated cabin to retreat to that I didn't even have to chop and gather wood for. And, of course, surviving the harsh cold is only a small part of the battle of life. Loneliness, the unexpected, (an Alaskan specialty), vast emptiness, injury and sickness, wildlife who were there first, and, well, so much more, all play into just the survival mode, never mind finding yourself while surviving. The resilience of the human spirit can break or be strong. In Aikens, it is strong.

Bottom line, I could rattle on here endlessly but will try to restrain myself to saying that if you enjoy stories of not just surviving the elements but your past, you will thoroughly enjoy this book. If you are interested in it simply for the Alaska setting, that's okay, too. Alaska is vast and you'll find something to love, not to mention gasp over in astonishment of all she can throw at you in one of the most challenging areas of Alaska. Aikens faced not just the challenge of life in remote Alaska but one of overcoming her own past and haunting memories of never being enough. And, and, and....okay, I could keep going but it's tough not to want to detail specifics and I want to leave the readers to meet Aikens' Alaska fresh. Thanks #Sourcebooks for allowing me this early peek at Aikens. I think I may have to finally dive into watching a few episodes of Life Below Zero, or at least wonder if she's watching the same Northern Lights aurora display I am next time Lady Aurora dances above me. 

My First 100 Signs: Baby Sign Language Book: Tiny Signs for Everyday Moments, by Lane Rebelo

 

Publication April 21, 2026

Although I don't have a baby handy to practice on, I was intrigued by the idea of being able to "talk" to them in signs before they are actually able to verbalize. I once had a deaf student who came with a sign language interpreter that taught me a few pertinent words, too, so I was curious to see what words might appear here that I knew or, sigh, once knew. People also swear by being able to communicate with deaf dogs, another concept that drew me, so this was a natural read for me, babies around or not. 

As it turned out, I do remember some basic terms, like the sign for "dog" (grin), but was struck at how many actually are close to things we tend to do naturally. These terms are common, very much signs that are applicable to babies, ranging from common objects and routines, as well as memorable moments in a child's life. Parents will appreciate that "potty" is in there, as is "grumpy". The way to introduce this to pre-vocal babes is to keep it fun. This is info, readers, that you're given in the front of the book. Real time connections are obviously best to start with, starting with a visual as you say and sign the word. And, remember, every child is different so what works immediately for one child may be a total flop with another.

Bottom line, an interesting idea that I'd love to know more about. The illustrations are colorful and simple, with the sign both described in words then and shown in a circular graphic. I was reading this on my phone so the sign photo did seem small but my hunch is that had I had the actual book, that wouldn't be an issue. All seem good, practical choices and I especially liked that the phrase "thank you" was included. Thanks #CiderMillPress for the early peek at this intriguing concept. Have fun with it, readers.

 

Disturbing The Fleece, by Reagan Davis

 

First, welcome back and hugs, Reagan Davis. You've been missed. That said....

Davis had me almost immediately as she mentioned main character Megan enjoying the "liminal space" of early morning with her corgi Sophie. While not a commonly used term, it's characteristic of her ability to use just the right phrasing to set the scene. While I'm more likely to enjoy the liminal space of late night, I knew exactly what she meant. This has been a favorite series of mine for a long time and, in fact, is one of those that turned me into a cozy mystery fan. The characters are multi-dimensional and their personalities shine through. I've got to admit, too, that one of the opening scenes with husband Eric fresh from working a traffic accident involving chickens, lots of angry chickens, made me chuckle and settle into my chair knowing I'd enjoy what was coming. I mean, who doesn't giggle at the idea of the police trying to wrangle angry chickens. If you're familiar with chickens, you know they can be scary at times, bizarre as it sounds. I still have nightmares of my grandparents' territorial rooster from childhood. Grin. 

Of course, it isn't long until the real story begins. Megan and much of the town of Harmony Lake is hustling to prepare to open for the first day of the country's huge annual yarn and fibre festival. You'll immediately feel right at home with these people and, most likely, even have some sympathy for the killer as the story winds down. The festival isn't limited to yarn enthusiasts, of course, as there's something for everyone, including local farmers. Even better for Megan and Eric, his Aunt Dorothy is in town and, wow, she's about as organized as any organizer be. She winds up in the middle of quarrel between the town's two premiere yarn dyers, Annabelle and Dawn, and, no surprise, one of them winds up dead. Not only does Megan find her but they also find Dolores, who'd gone missing after her confrontation, unconscious by where, yes, you guessed it, one of the dyers is found dead. And, ugh, what a way to go. Nope, not telling. In fact, this is about as much plot as I'm going to share. It's a good mystery, one with not just twists and turns and nuances, but multiple suspects.   

As noted many times in my reviews, I'm a character drawn reader and that is one of the strengths of author Davis. You'll feel like you know these people and how they're related and connected as the plot moves along smoothly. The book works well as a standalone, sharing Megan's relationship with her ex-husband who is now, no lie, Eric's best buddy. Davis also does an excellent job setting the scene, describing not just the setting but what you'd see, smell, and hear were you to enter the festival  Oh, and taste. You'll also learn a bit about such fun treats as Beaver Tail and what it is really made of. Let's just say, make sure you have something handy to munch on as you read given all the delicious sounding mentions of food. Kudos to Davis for weaving (knitting?) it all together smoothly and sensibly. She definitely kept me guessing. Don't hesitate to pick this one up even if, like me, you aren't a knitter or crocheter. 

 

Some Like It Fudgy (Candy-Coated Mystery #14), by Nancy Coco

 

Publication April 28, 2026

Allie's emotions are all over the place in this one. The usual characters make an appearance but it's her relationship with husband Rex that seems to be the focus this go round. It begins simple enough when Allie opts to take some fudge next door to Melonia, Rex's former wife, who is new in town. With her usual knack for finding bodies, she finds the woman dead. In the meantime, Rex gets a call that his wife has been killed.  Only when Rex arrives, it isn't Allie, phew, but his ex, Melonia. Still stunned from thinking Allie had been killed, Rex makes the mistake of trying to ward off Allie's usual inquisition of questions mumbling something about his wife being dead. That sets off a series of clashes and misunderstandings that seem to send Allie off the deep end. It doesn't help that given Rex's connection to the victim that he's not only removed from the case but replaced by an Officer Laird, who seems to be a major league, arrogant jerk. He tolerates none of Allie's meddling, even forcing officer friend Charles to perp walk her through the crowd to the police station. Fortunately, she's released but only after she learns the seemingly magic word "lawyer" and holding her tongue. And that is just the very beginning.

I'm not going to detail the plot, as noted it sorta zigs and zags all over the place as possible clues send her in one direction or the other, all while trying to be as secretive about her investigation as possible.  She's also finding things to be upset about that aren't really important in the grand scheme of things.  In the meantime, we meet a new character, Rowan Giles, and her amazingly well trained Great Dane Finn. Quite frankly, I lean toward thinking this book was as much to introduce the personable and amazingly well connected but broke Rowan as for Allie's story. Rowan, we find out, will have her own series soon. I think Rowan's nervous, almost non-stop chatter when we meet would drive me nuts but she proves herself (with Finn's help) as the story progresses. I'm already looking forward to it after the teaser chapter.  

In any case, there are multiple suspects who might have wanted Melonia dead although that, once again, is only the top of the iceberg of trouble facing Allie and her friends on Mackinac Island which, sadly, we didn't get to spend much time virtually enjoying this read. The theories of whodunit and possible reasons is all over the place due to some well place red herrings and misdirection by the guilty and, of course, there are some absolutely delicious sounding recipes included. Thanks #KensingtonPublishing for the early peek into the roller coaster life of Allie as well as introducing me to an intriguing new character. I'm already in love with Finn, as is Allie's dog Mal, so am looking forward to getting to know Rowan soon. 

The Barn Identity (House-Flipper Mystery #8), by Diane Kelly

 

Publication March 30, 2026

Despite being pregnant,Whitney (now) Flynn is delighted to discover an old barn with Underground Railroad ties that needs renovated. Unlike most of Whitney and Buck's other projects, however, this one won't be a flip. The owner wants to keep it but have it turned into something safe and practical due to her own family's ties to the property. It's ultimately decided to create a unique apartment project to be called the "hayloft" apartments. Then, a reporter who was doing a story on the transformation is killed on the property. While Whitney doesn't let that or the threats she receives detour her determination to redo the old barn, she's also hot on the trail of whodunit. Much to her surprise, the local investigator seems to welcome, even encourage her sleuthing. Husband Collin assists when possible but the murder took place out of his jurisdiction, so his options are legally limited.

 I thoroughly enjoyed the bit of Civil War era history shared, including the significance of symbols and credit given to the enslaved people who build the barn originally and their handiwork. On the more humorous side, you'll learn a bit about not just chickens but the sexuality of roosters. The vegetarian diet gets some kudos, too, with even meat eater Buck showing appreciation at a local restaurant near the barn after sampling some of its offerings. Maizy the cow, with her perpetual itch, is quite the character, too. While neither murderous nor humorous, you'll learn quite a bit about some not so upfront methods some shady land developers use. And, oh, I can't forget, the fancy church operation. Think mega-church. 

But, enough teasers. I enjoy spending time with Whitney and Buck and now their extended families. While I wonder about the wisdom of Whitney tackling such a physically demanding job while pregnant, I have always admired her ability to make her way in what most would consider a man's world. Collin was a bit of a hoot fretting and catering to her, not to mention her mother's constant checking up on her. I think it's obvious this one is heading to the birth of a spoiled baby...oops, not telling the name, so not really a spoiler. You're just going to have to read the book. It's a fun one with multi-layered side stories and characters that are well fleshed out. The regulars, even Sawdust the cat, get their moments, too, of course, and it's going to be fun  Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for giving me this early peek at how life is going for Whitney. I am always fascinated by their projects and it's been fun getting to know them and those about them. 

 

A Summertime Murder (The Isle of Wight Killings #5), by Mary Grand

Publication March 9, 2026

Susan lives in a lovely setting where everything appears serene and calm on the surface. Only, it isn't. There are lots of twists and turns and I lost track of how many times I changed my mind about who was the most likely culprit. The prologue sets the mood as we're briefly in a killer's mind, leaving us uneasy as we wait to find out the details. As such, the fact life goes on as usual for awhile, dog walks and ocean swims included, prepares us but not for how many seem to have had a reason for wanting the victim dead. It reminds us that a killer can walk amongst us anytime, their life rarely allowing a glimpse into whatever drove them to kill. 

We meet Susan early on (this was my first read of the series) and while tired of the overbearing heat of a seemingly never ending heat wave, she's going about her life. We even get to meet not just her friends but the eventual victim, a local vet whose clinic was just broken into. There are quite a few characters, too, so it took me a bit to sort them all out, occasionally getting confused about who was with who or married to who or whose dog was which. I did quickly suss out that Susan seems involved in a slowly budding romance with Robert, a retired cop, but he was in France with his daughter for much of the book, There always seemed to something hovering just beneath the surface, albeit you're not sure what it is about. Everyone seemed to have secrets. Heck, even Susan seems to have a secret of sorts that involves Steve, her ex-husband who shows up in town expecting to stay at her place briefly....for work, of course. 

Bottom line, lots of secrets on the Isle of Wright. Who'd have wanted to kill the local vet and why? He was a keeper of secrets, too, of course, from the past and present. Let's say his wife didn't seem enthused about his news of a big break. But, more than enough said. Once you sort out the characters, which may be more the fact this was my first read of the series than not, it's an intriguing mystery with a growing sense of unease always just below the surface. Lots of twists and turns and, as noted, misdirection that have you pointing to one suspect after another as whodunit, some more than once. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for introducing me to this intriguing book and author. While it was maybe a bit out of my usual cozy mystery niche, I found it an interesting read and will definitely be back. It was a plus to me that the story was centered around a small town vet practice, too, animal person that I am. Loved the teaser at the end regarding Susan's future. 

The Old Girls' Island Getaway, by Kate Galley

 

Publication March 4, 2926

While the focus here is on the characters and their connection, there's a bit of intrigue and drama mixed in. Dorothy and Gina are still enjoying life even as the aches and pains, not to mention regrets of life, keep invading. They're joined this go-round by Dorothy's artistically talented grand-daughter who also seems to have the knack for not always realizing (or caring?) how her comments and questions are taken. She's likable but, well, would be a possible embarrassment at any given moment, too. They're invited to the estate of Rupert, a long time friend of Dorothy's, who doesn't seem to have long to live. It's an amazing place, too, including private boats and such, not to mention Ioannis, who I guess you'd call has aide and driver. Then they're joined by movie star Florence who is about to be caught up in the drama of a divorce sure to create a media frenzy after her husband's statement. Her story is an important aspect of the book and provides a shocking twist at the end. Oddly enough, that one's topped soon by a discovery by Dorothy.

I won't detail the plot but it's multi-layered diving into past and present lives and the expectations of each. It took me awhile to get into the story but I'm leaning toward that just being a harsh real world invading my thoughts way too often of late. The characters are likable, even one who appears shady at first meet, and one wishes they could join them on some of their adventures. Dorothy and Gina's impulsive swim sounded delightful. Getting to know Florence, too, was intriguing, reminding us all that what we see on screen isn't necessarily what the actor is really like as a real person. I'm sorta hoping we will get an update on her life in future books, have to admit. The story, while slow to me initially, moves ahead nicely despite leisurely detours for fun and frolic. 

Bottom line,I enjoyed my time with Dorothy, Gina, and friends. Well, not so much Gina's ex-husband. I'm still not certain whether I'll ever warm up to him or not. Right now I'm rooting for Erik. Nope, not telling. Read the book. Like I said, multi-stories with multi-layers. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for this early peek at how things are going in Gina's new life, not to mention some surprising twist hints for likely future story lines. Corfu sounds delightful, that's for sure, though know they'll find other fun places to explore and enjoy, not to mention people to get to know.  

The Case of the Christie Curse (The Detection Club Book 3), by Kelly Oliver

 

Publication Feb. 21, 2026

I seem to have missed book two but it didn't matter. As always, Oliver's words flow and it worked well as a standalone. You'll meet the regulars early on, members of the Detection Club, and get a quick feel for each. Eliza and Theo are the leads, however, and the tension and attraction between them intensifies as the story moves along. I looked back at my review of book one and noted that aspect was rather overwhelming but it was obvious from the blurb that this would be a key element this time so I went with the flow. Agatha is in Mesopotamia and sends a cryptic message to them to come there as things simply aren't right. She doesn't say what but, as it turns out, even Agatha Christie isn't quite sure what is going on amidst the heat and sun baked sands and ever changing light of the site of a high stakes artifact evacuation where we'll also meet one Max Mallowan. Christie fans will know his connection. Grin. In any case, Eliza and Theo, along with Dorothy Sayers, yes, that Dorothy Sayers, go. Eliza even manages to smuggle in her trusty beagle Queenie who, trust me, is a star in this installment. An annoying reporter wanting to interview Agatha tags along soon after.

I won't detail the plot, it's a twisty one, but revolves around not just the murder of artifact catalogue worker Julian Larch but what is going on with missing and odd finds amongst the artifacts being found, not to mention a supposed Queen's Curse and spotted sickness plaguing the workers. Author Oliver excels in describing the setting, making me feel the oppressive heat and gritty sand between my teeth at the height of a sand storm. And, oh, boy, if you're claustrophobic, be prepared for a tense scene Eliza and Theo find themselves in. Poor Theo does take quite a beating through this installment, I must say, but it never dulls his growing attraction to the fact based Eliza. Through it all there's a dash of history, cultural conflicts, curses, people being attacked, lost and found diaries, and troubled characters, both real and fictional. Be sure to read the author's note at the end for more on that. There's a dose of humor here and there, too, to relieve the growing tensions. 

Bottom line,  I thoroughly enjoyed the book and will be looking for the next in the series. Oliver's writing flows with many a poetic phrasing and there are even quotes from Shakespeare that pop up, albeit a few not quite fully accurate. Nope, not telling you any more. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for giving me this early peek at Eliza and Theo's adventures (and misadventures) in a mysterious world while managing to sneak in the debate about who artifacts found should really belong to, one not quite settled to this day, I think. Readers will get a good overview of what an excavation was like in those days, including things like grids resembling chess boards in Theo's mind, and the scholar's need to create order out of a jumble at times. I'm sorry I missed the second book but will be looking forward to the next, especially after that ending. 

Stakeouts and Strollers, by Rob Phillips

 Publication March 17, 2026

For a case that started out simply enough with what is surely standard private detective assignments, to "Get photos of the cheating spouse", this one escalated fast. True, Charlie spends lots of time checking the family's baby cam to simply look at new baby Callie sleeping, burping, crying -- which she does lots of -- but he shows a focus and tenacity probably born as much from his days as an investigative reporter as any PI training.  You'll quickly find out that his idea of having a plan is, well, winging it, but he has a heart of gold and, oh, he loves being a girl dad. He impulsively takes 16-year of runaway Friday Finley not only under his wing -- though she exhibits some pretty fierce survival skills herself as the story goes along -- and takes her home with him. Oh, and instantly considers her search for her missing father his case, too. Yep, he's definitely a born girl dad. You'll find out a bit more of what may have guided his impulses later. Nor does he back down as the case takes on, let's see, elements of a nasty goon with a snake tatoo, owned cops, gambling, drugs, protection rackets and more. And those are just the highlights. 

I don't want to reveal much more of the plot as part of the fun is to be amazed at how a simple "get some photos" case turns deadly. I found myself instinctively liking Charlie, even if I did shudder at the idea of him having Callie along, albeit in her car seat, on a surveillance job. Needless to say, Callie's mother was not pleased but rolled with it far better than many of us might have. Must have been the lack of sleep and sheer exhaustion of being a new mom. Lucky for them baby nurse Grace appears in a timely fashion, joining the now quite crowded home. I definitely hope, assuming this is going to be a series, she makes frequent appearances as I liked her calm manner no matter what was thrown at her. Charlie's friends, with their legal backgrounds, were also likable, his detective agency boss even going so far as to fire him at one point because he was, let's say, rash. In other words, he cared for Charlie just as the rest do. There's humor, too, flowing through the plot, often interspersed with tense action scenes, so be ready to hold onto your proverbial hat at times. And, oh, yes, Callie is adorable and, I promise, safe. I somehow felt like I should toss in that "no babies were harmed" bit. Grin. 

As for Friday's quest to find her missing father and avoid foster care after her mother's recent death, it gets complicated. There's every indication he's probably dead. Let's face it, when you cross the wrong crowd, your life expectancy isn't likely to be long. Friday is resilient, however, and ready to do whatever it takes to find him, dead or alive. Like Charlie, she has some rash moments, too, but, hey, that's giving away a plot hint. Nope, no more. Read the book. While some may find it a slow start, trust me, it picks up quickly...well, aside from moments spent admiring Callie. Uh, Charlie, you might want to save some phone battery. You know. Just in case you need it? Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for introducing me to Charlie and this interesting cast of probably regulars. There's something about girl dads and the hint of what is to come has me ready for the next installment. 

When Paul Revere Rode: Voices from the First Night of the American Revolution, by Sarah L. Thomson, Nik Henderson (Illustrator)

 

This combines history, art, prose, and poetry into a strong tale of the first night of the American Revolution. Most of us are familiar with Paul Revere's famous ride but fuzzy on details, not to mention anyone else involved. This book goes a long way toward filling in some gaps. It's also nicely illustrated and helps you feel like you're there as Revere and others set about their assigned tasks. I liked the mostly dark, frequently rather ominous blues suggesting the night, reminding us that this task was accomplished in the scant span of one night. It also reminds us that there were others involved, from the man loaning a fast horse to Revere to the brave woman facing down Redcoats as her husband and she begin to melt down pewter utensils for bullets. 

Needless to say, as a former history major and teacher, I thoroughly enjoyed this creative combo of styles to tell a story we all sorta know but, well, not necessarily all that well. Each spread basically deals with on facet or brief moment of the evening, using text, and both prose and poetry to capture the moment and feelings. I liked that while the book obviously focuses on Revere, it doesn't ignore the male slave who helped get the word out or the largely nameless to us average citizens who rose to the moment in various ways. Each poem is focused on that source, sharing the person's observations and feelings as they were caught up in history. As the author notes early on, history isn't just a recitation of barely connected facts or events but it's the ordinary people, just like us, who rise to the challenge even when the odds seem against them. In other words, this is the human side of the story, not just that Revere jumped on a horse galloping about the countryside shouting that "The British are coming!" He didn't, btw. How foolish that would have been given speed and stealth were the objective, not to give himself away. 

Bottom line, as noted, I enjoyed this creative read and highly recommend it to not just history buffs but teachers and libraries everywhere. No matter your age, you're likely to enjoy the read. The maps at the beginning help visualize the setting as well as making it clear Revere wasn't in this alone. They also put the location of the Old North Church into perspective, something I don't recall having seen before but that's probably on me, not my teachers. There are brief bios of the individuals or groups highlighted, such as the fife players with information on the importance of their role in battle or maneuvers. It was interesting to learn that Revere lived to be 83 years old and left behind some 50 grandchildren! Finally, you'll find lists/links at the end guiding you to books, places, documents, and even films where you can learn more, as well as a select bibliography. Thanks #AstraPublishingHouse for allowing this history buff an early peek at the fascinating look at a pivotal moment in our nation's history. How inspiring to see common, everyday citizens rise to the occasion.