The Afternoon Tea Murders (The Secret Detective Agency Book 4) , byHelena Dixon

 

Temporary place holder to remind me when I actually finished this one. Actual review will be up on May 2nd. Yeah, yeah, I know. You hate these reviews that aren't really reviews. Grin. 

Rosie's Ranch Rescue: Taking Care of Each Other (Audio Book), by Paige Murray, Narrated by Cassandra Morris

 

Audio Book   13m    Narrated by Cassandra Morris 

Written by Paige Murray, wife of nine-time World Champion Cowboy Ty Murray, this one is both informative and cute as can be. I had the audio version and suggest it would be a great listen for young fans, probably of horses and cowboys/girls. Narrator Cassandra Morris obviously had a lot of fun doing the various voices and sounds. I mean, I wonder how often a book narrator gets to vocalize a coyote? Grin.

While my eyes widened at the idea of our young heroine leaving the house alone at night with only her trusty horse, dog, and cat (yes, cat), it did show the depth of understanding the need to protect the animals at all costs. Rosie the horse gets star billing but Pete the dog and Thumbs (I didn't write it down but that was the name I was hearing) the not-so-brave cat get in on the action. I've been lucky enough to see baby calves, so even if you only get the audio version, trust me, they are just as adorable as Oakley thinks they are. How the trio manages to protect the nearly newborn calves against not just coyotes but a wild boar shows just one aspect of the danger of living on a farm where wild animals may dwell. I liked that the father figure made the point, however, that the wild critters were just following their natural instincts to take care of their needs and not threatening the calves simply to be mean.

Bottom line, a fun read /listen. As the title says, the focus is on how we should take care of each other, working together whenever possible. And, yes, Oakley gets mildly chastised for going out alone but her parents do recognize her intentions were good. Children will enjoy the story and come away with a better understanding, I believe, of not just life on a farm but the potential dangers that may lurk there. And, hey, the author even works in a quote from western star John Wayne about courage. I enjoyed this relatively brief listen and definitely liked narrator Morris' vocalization. 

Dungeons and Danger (The Ravensea Castle Book 2), by Elizabeth Penney

 

Publication May 26, 2026

Vikings, ancient castles, ghosts, and buried treasure. What's not to like? While I still haven't quite warmed up to Nora as much as I'd hoped, I am enjoying the series. What lured me in initially was the hook of the ancient, haunted castle and lots and lots of Viking lore. This installment has not only that but Nora's brother Will is hosting a Viking themed promotion on the castle grounds. I wish there was video of the grand finale, that's for sure. That must have been a spectacular sight and, no, not sharing. It's all part of the parcel that is a character in itself, Ravensea Castle. Even now, after opening a bed and breakfast in the castle, Nora and sister Tamsyn and still discovering things about the castle they weren't aware of yet. True, their father, Arthur Asquith, is an expert on its history but even after growing up there, his children seem to have much to learn. Like, is there really a buried treasure? If so, where is it? Can they persuade one of their ghosts to lead them to it? Needless to say, I'm not telling but it's a fun read and if you're the least bit claustrophobic, you may feel yourself in some of those tunnels and narrow paths. Poor Nora isn't the least fond of heights, either, probably not good in a castle with tall, tall towers.

I don't want to give away the plot but will say it involves competing treasure hunters, ghost hunters, and some intriguing ghostly encounters. Who knew Sir Percival had such a sense of humor? I mean, the man literally lost his head but seems to have retained a playful streak. Tweedy and the ghost hunters have a history as it turns out and, well, who can resist the lure of a lost treasure being buried somewhere on the castle grounds. A fortune worth killing for, I might note. That's about as much as I care to say about the plot but will add that the regular characters are likable and the family pets have character, too. Even the elusive, ghostly Red Lady gets the spotlight, so to speak, even if Nora is a bit slow figuring out what she is trying to tell them. Good thing detective boyfriend Finlay Cole is around to help sort things out, even if he is removed from the case due to his romantic connection with Nora. 

Bottom line, I found the book intriguing and did enjoy the little side trips and descriptions. While I don't think I'd want to climb all those steps to get a view from the top of a tower, I'd love to be able to visit this fictional castle. The regular cast, including Janet, who insists on calling Nora "my Lady', and her jack-of-all-trades husband Gus, is fun and I'm warming up to Nora as the series has continued. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for introducing me to this series and allowing me an early peek at the goings on at this rather amazing castle. Ghosts? Well, these are friendly ghosts and definitely have their own unique personalities, a plus.  

Whose Body in the Library (Lighthouse Library Mystery #13), by Eva Gates

 Publication June 9, 2026

Lucy McNeil is beginning her new job as library director and new hire, Nichelle Gilchrest has arrived to fill her usual spot. Nichelle is excited, having upended her old life to move here but her first day doesn't go as planned. As she opens the doors of the lighthouse library to welcome her first day library users, she finds a dead body on the steps. Lucy arrives at about the same time and knows the routine, so it isn't as disruptive as it might be, but there's another issue. Nichelle sees a startling resemblance in the dead man to her father who disappeared many years ago and has been thought dead. There's also a new detective in town, Detective Rhonda Thomas, who is very by the book and regularly tells Nichelle not to get involved. I bet you can guess how much good that did her, huh?

Long time series fans, don't despair. Lucy is still there, just playing a diminished, backup role. Let's face it. She's now the mother of very young twins and sleuthing isn't exactly on her priority list. She's there for Nichelle (yes, her name has a Star Trek connection) but really isn't involved in the investigation. Nichelle's initial interest is really as much on what brought the man she suspects might be her father to her new doorstep only to be murdered as on who did it. Oh, of course, that changes when she learns who the chief suspect is. Nope, not telling. You'll have to read the book. I'm not going to give away any more of the plot but it's a solid one that does offer an occasional chapter from Lucy's viewpoint. The usual cast of characters isn't showcased as much as long time fans might wisht, well, except for, sigh, the one character that has always grated on me while I must still admit she adds a certain touch of quirkiness to the plots. Even Lucy still hasn't quite sorted out how best to deal with her, which I'm sure will add a few laughs as the series continues with Nichelle as the focus. Oh, and least I forget, Charles the library cat is definitely on hand. 

Bottom line, Eva Gates had me wondering when I read the initial news about Lucy stepping back but this one works nicely. I liked Nichelle, even when she was making some very rookie sleuth mistakes. Hey, they all have to start somewhere. As always, the lighthouse itself is practically a character and Gates descriptions of its history and the surrounding area are excellent. While we didn't get to meet all of Nichelle's family this go-round, we've been at least introduced and I'm sure it's no accident that she, like Lucy, has twins, albeit grown daughters. It was also subtle but I think we may come to like the new detective, too, although I'm sure Rhonda and Nichelle will butt heads more than a few times in the process although the likable, but retired Sam Watson is still around. Thanks #CrookedLaneBooks for introducing me initially to Lucy and allowing me this early peek at the arrival of Nichelle to take over some of the work load, probably both work and sleuthing. I do hope Lucy will find time for not just get some sleep but to pop in-and-out as the series continues. We do want to get to know Isaac and Lucas, too, hint, hint. Grin. 

Elvis & Romeo and the New Stuffie: Ready-to-Read Level 1 (An Elvis & Romeo Book), by David Soman, Jacky Davis

Publication May 5, 2026

I thought of my own dog's tug-of-wars with her best canine buddy over favorite toys. Let's just say that Neither seemed to grasp the idea of taking it easy, ie being gentle, so I can understand Elvis' reluctance to let his lively friend Romeo play with Bubbles.  Despite this mild quibble, the book does an excellent job of getting its  idea across. While it's certainly okay to play along, it's also okay to share as it can be far more fun to play with others. I liked the fact neither Romeo nor Elvis was was caste in a negative light, another subtle hint that it's okay to do your own thing as well as change your mind. Romeo was also respectful of Elvis' wish to keep Bubbles to himself, another nice hint to respect other's space and not force someone into joining in on play. Good modeling for behavior.

Designed for beginning readers, both the text and illustrations are simple and direct. While you do see other friendly looking dogs in the background at times, the focus remains on Elvis and Romeo. Bubbles is seen, of course, and it shows Elvis' gentle handling of his toy. He even manages to play fetch with himself, something that has always amused me with my own dogs. Ultimately, of course, after initially turning Romeo away, we see Elvis gradually begin to want companionship and to share, showing the natural, slow way children may chose their own way. Nothing is forced and while, yes, the other dogs are seen, they aren't part of the focused action. Boundaries were set and observed, another subtle hint to children. Romeo also learns how to be patient, which I thought was another good behavior to model. 

Bottom line, a cute story that would be fine as both a read aloud to or read alone style book for readers able to tackle the text.  As a dog person, I'd have a blast doing the dogs' voices, that's for sure. Thanks @SimonAndSchusterChildren'sPublishing for introducing me to Romeo and Elvis. I'm always happy to meet another dog or two, even when my own might more genuinely mirror the more energetic Romeo than the thoughtful Elvis. Grin. 

Ode to the Bones, by Carolyn Haines

 

Publication May 26, 2026

If you're not familiar with Bobbie Gentry's song "Ode to Billy Joe", it might be a good idea to give it listen or two before you begin reading. Or, maybe three. It is relevant and sets the rather chilling mood. While the Tallahatchie Bridge of the song burned in 1972, it's story lingers and, who knows, you might just spy a wispy ghost as you pass by even the current bridge. The mystery of what really inspired the song lingers on. As for our main character, Sarah Booth Delaney, the past is definitely eroding into her present in more ways than one.

There is so much going on here. I felt sadness reading of the farmer's plight here as it's reality, not just in the book. Climate change is having an impact on largely agricultural Zinna, Missouri, and the impact is widespread. In some ways, I felt like I could just as easily have read stories of current hardships farmers are facing in the newspaper as within this book. Author Haines has done her homework, that's for sure. She presents the human side of it, too, and not just from the farmers' angle. Sarah's partner Tinkie's husband Oscar is president of the local bank and his natural caring, wanting to help heart is caught between bureaucracy and going the extra step to help his friends and neighbors. Then, an respected young farmer goes missing after Oscar is forced to tell him foreclosure is near. That's when things really take off. And, that's only scratching the surface.

I came to this series late, bad me, but have come to expect and even thoroughly enjoy Sarah's contact with quirky ghost Jitty. Jitty is here in the guise of several 60's folk protest type singers, among them Dylan and Peter, Paul, and Mary. Well, Mary. Sarah doesn't quite understand the "rules" of befriending a ghost and, well, neither do I, but it works for me. This time, however, it's a spooky new ghost that Sarah is seeing. Was that really a wispy ghost in that equally wispy white gown flowing in the wind she saw on the bridge? She's never even shared her secret of Jitty with best friend Tinkie, so she's fearful that saying anything about it will create problems. Oh, but, poor Sarah. Ghostly bridge jumpers are the least of her troubles.

To be honest, as tempting as it is to rattle on endlessly about the goings on here, I don't want to ruin any reader's own experience. I'll simply say, let's see, it involves social and national commentary, secret affairs, buried treasure, drones, robbery, generations of families supporting themselves and neighbors, and there's even a famous model involved. Oh, and I cannot make myself not mention the nasty piece of homewrecker gossip that sticks her nose in everywhere, much to Sarah's dismay. Sarah comes face to face with her own demons and past. Why does she feel like she's always being watched? 

Bottom line, even to this series late comer, maybe not quite knowing all the past details of every book helps put me more into Sarah's sense of unknowing as the story goes along. It's definitely a wow of an ending, that's for sure. I am so looking forward to the next book. Thanks you #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for introducing me to Sarah Booth Delaney and her world and allowing me this early peek. I've grown to feel like I know and care about these people and even find myself smiling when Tinkie has a moment with her daughter and shares it with Sarah. Thank you. #Carolyn Haines for creating such a place and people.

 

Both Sides Now, by Lydia Corry

 Publication May 19, 2026

It's rather amazing and quite impressive to see Joni Mitchell still creating headlines and performing today. This book takes us back to her beginnings, however, which had their own share of hurdles to cope with. As a long time fan, I was relatively aware of the insights shared here for young readers but it was still a fun read. Born in Canada, she didn't grow up in the spotlight and it is probably safe to say her family couldn't have predicted her fame and worldwide influence. I mean, even though she didn't physically attend Woodstock, her song captured that historic event wonderfully and is still widely heard today. Both Sides Now remains one of my favorite songs, too. Can you imagine the images that must flash through her head when she performs it? It must surely ring differently to her now than it did so many years ago. Not too bad for a young girl who faced down polio as a child.

The graphic illustrations are colorful and capture moments well in a style that reflects Mitchell's own artistry. I have to admit to going online to check out some of her artwork as I read, which I'd suggest would be of interest to those with little awareness of her artistry and sense of style. What she became started in her early days. It was fun to imagine her as a child Influences abounded, human and nature, and even as a she didn't shy away from "doing her own thing" as it might have been called by her generation. Aimed at early elementary readers, this book should also hold the interest of us no longer young. 

Bottom line, I'm trying not to give away too much as those just meeting her deserve to get to know on their own but will say there's a sort of whimsical feel at times that matches the  artwork and colorful feel of her story. Was it a happy, carefree life? Far from it. But, it shaped her, much to our own benefit. My thanks to #MacmillanChildren'sPublishingGroup - #GodwinBooks for this early peek at this lovely overview of the early days of a woman who still earns headlines and media attention today. Music and art are universal and I'm so glad Joni persevered and gave us all a piece of her heart by sharing her multiple talents. 

The Daisy Chain Flower Shop, by Laurie Gilmore

 

Publication May , 2026

This was my first read of this series but I'm hooked. I was lured in initially by the cover and title since my dog's name (and this review blog) was Daisy. That said, I was immediately drawn in from the very start and found myself liking and rooting for Daisy and Elliot. Dream Harbor sounds like one of those small towns where everyone knows everyone's business almost before they do. It's also quirky enough that the town seems to have fallen into believing Daisy's flower shop is cursed due to a dream the town mayor had.  Although I'm only getting introduced to many of the probably usual characters at this point, none of them seem to genuinely dislike Daisy, so that belief was a bit, uh, "out there". It was rather sad to read that in a town that seems to pride itself on knowing everything and then some about residents, however, that Elliot remains a mystery to most. Talk about not being noticed. 

I definitely don't want to ruin the plot for readers so will keep this vague. Fake dating is the trope of the day here and while it isn't necessarily one of my favorites, it's sweet and works. Honestly, I was rooting for Daisy even before Elliot appeared. His quick thinking and ability to follow the upset Daisy's lead on deceiving her former boyfriend and his new girlfriend, who, no lie, she finds herself liking, made me like him immediately. That he's a history buff would have been the deciding factor for this history buff but, well, as noted, I was already rooting for them as a couple. As a new reader, I may have been hearing Daisy's background for the first time but family is obviously important to both and they find themselves caught up in looking at some old photos and digging into their family backgrounds. The idea of the curse is woven into it all and gave the story a bit more meaning to me as one who has spent some time researching my own family's heritage and backgrounds. So, all in all, as noted, I thoroughly enjoyed the story and will be looking for future books from author Gilmore as well as catching up on all I've missed. 

Bottom line, a sweet story that had likable characters and a quirky but fun setting made this one a winner for me. I use the word sweet in that their connection was so cautious and was a gentle slow burn with small, usually hesitant steps together with shared looks, hand holding, and getting to know each other without relying on steamy scenes. Thanks #Harper30 for introducing me to this charming couple and the town of Dream Harbor where dreams do make a difference. 

On the Loose in London!: A Star Chapter Book, by Dan Yaccarino, Ethan Long (Illustrator)

 

Publication May 5, 2026

The message here isn't to go to London to fall into the Thames or see a ghost, not to mention get tossed out of Buckingham Palace by the Queen, but to be open to differences and other's ideas and views. Betsy is an organizer, with an orderly, to the minute sight seeing list. Buck? Not so much. He's likely to be the tour group member who always goes missing or gets into mischief. He annoys Betsy to no end. But, as their tour of London goes along, she realizes she not only enjoys his company but that by following his whims, she's seen and done many things she wouldn't have done otherwise. Well, true, I think she'd have preferred not to do some of them but, hey, it was an adventure. 

It was also a fun read, even for this so-called adult. Done in sort of a graphic style storybook fashion, the text is relatively simple and easy to follow. The illustrations add to the fun and share bits of London history and lore as it goes along.  It might just be the early peek I got, but the interior colors are largely muted, shades of tan and off-white dominate. That doesn't distract from the story, however, and even adds to the wonder of Peggy and Buck seeing it all for the first time. True, we'd be unlikely to meet up with jet-packing Londoners but, hey, the view from way up there was amazing. Well, maybe not for Peggy. You'll find out why as you read. 

Part of the Chapter Book Series, each chapter is short and designed to hold children's attention. I'm not familiar with the series, bad me, but it's said each book has 6-8 chapters and is meant to help them transition from lower level books with one basic story into chapter books. That definitely works here and would be great for both independent reading and/or being read aloud. Bottom line, a fun read and it would be a great addition for relevant classrooms and libraries, not to mention simply dog lovers who enjoy a goofy but informative story. It was fun to get a glimpse of Big Ben through Betsy and Buck's eyes.  

My Dog Is Better at This Than Me: Life Lessons from the Couch Cushion Philosopher, by B.K. Larrikin, Cael Morricone (Illustrator)

 

Publication April 14, 2026

Yes, my dog is better at this life thing than me. I wish I had what I call Daisy's zen. She doesn't overthink things, She doesn't keep rehashing old memories with "I should have...."  Me? I tend to overthink. I rehash events of years ago. We humans keep mental spreadsheets of our past and current inadequacies. Dogs? Nope. An oops of a moment ago is forgotten as they move on to the next thing. Nor do they constantly compare their lives in comparison to the lives of other dogs. Nope. They just sniff rear ends and are fine with their own life, plush or sparse. Yep. Dogs just, well, just "dog" without having to figure it out. We humans will be calculating and figuring and over-figuring things on a regular basis. This book tackles the differences between us and our zen dogs with both knowledge and humor, letting us get to know her Rosie (actually a compilation of her dogs) in the process that even includes a trip to the vet after eating a sock. Did Rosie learn anything from that experience? Well, she was trying to eat the vet's shoe laces when she came to after surgery if that tells you anything. Yep. Dogs. Gotta love 'em.

I honestly don't want to go into much detail of the contents as it's a fun, thought provoking read. It's also full of funny moments, both from Rosie and the author. Let's just say, doing a high stakes business meeting with something stuck between your front teeth would surely be a totally different experience for human and canine. The feel is almost conversational, so an easy read. The author offers up stories with real, easy to do "wellness activities". You can do each in a matter of minutes with no special equipment or really preparation. In other words, for the busy person who, unlike our dogs, has trouble focusing for more than a few moments at a time. All this is explained in the early sections of the book, plus the author even adds a section for those who aren't owned by a dog. The author also points out that none of this is a substitute for professional care if needed. It's basically a beginning, I guess we could say. A way of looking at things in a new light. 

The chapter titles are fun, too, such as "The Zen of Zoomies" and "The Church of the Walk". Given Daisy's love of her walks, that one was a must read for me, I assure you. In fact, I read it early, right after the zoomies chapter. While I did go back and read straight through eventually, you can read them in any order you want, another plus. Bottom line, a fun book that I highly recommend to not only dog lovers everywhere but those who, like me, tend to overthink things and have trouble letting negative thoughts go. Thanks #TerrapagePress - #IBPA for allowing me this early peek at this both thoughtful and humorous book. Who knew the most grounded, emotionally steady critter in our lives is our dogs.