With a Little Help from Their Friends (Audiobook), by Stuart Maconie

 

Available April 7, 2026                      Audio   10 h Narrated by author

How many of us can honestly say we went to a Beatles' concert as a toddler? Author Stuart Maconie can, thanks to his apparently Beatles loving mother who took him there. So, it's true to say that Maconie has been a fan for his entire life. Well, maybe he didn't quite understand the noise level at the show but he certainly seems to have captured the sense of awe that prevailed. It's that awe and longtime sense of admiration for the band that shines through in his narration. Yep, an author narrating his own book. It'd be easy for him to be gushy and such given his longtime admiration but he does an admirable job containing himself and overall the feel is one of admiration, yes, but with a sense of someone who has had a few years to think about what it all means. His focus here on the people who for one reason or the other, big or small, played a role in the rise of the Beatles is intriguing. I did read a digital copy earlier so my main goal here was to get a feel for his voice and listen to the final section again since, admittedly, I was rather rushed when I was reading. 

I'm glad I did opt to review the audio book, too, I must admit. I find myself always picking up on this or that that I missed initially while reading. I won't detail my additions to my Beatles mind stash as that will differ for each individual but one that stands out was early on. For whatever reason I missed that Ivan Vaughn, the then boy who introduced Paul to John, has Parkinson's disease. It's little things like that that add to the humanity of it all for me. Overall, the feel is comfortable, flowing for the most part like a dialogue between friends might. Obviously, just as in real life our minds may drift while friends are talking, yes, you'll probably find yourself zoning out at times only to be brought back by some revelation that you weren't aware of or the context it's mentioned in here. Nothing fancy between chapters/sections, simply stated and then resumes after a short pause. For those who care, the author is British so he's reading with the expected British accent. If you're one of those who likes to speed up audio, I'd suggest you work your way up slowly. I tried to jump in with my usual speed of 1.5 to begin with and found myself having to back off a bit until my American mind adjusted to what I was hearing. After that, no problem.

Bottom line, an enjoyable listen. My original review of the digital copy follows,

ORIGINAL REVIEW

 You've got to respect and author who admits up front that he wrote this because, well, he wanted to write a book about the Beatles. I credit him for not taking the easy way out and doing some repetitive recap of their career. Instead, he takes another angle, taking a look at the people who came into the band members' lives, however long or short, and made a difference. You'll recognize some names and most likely be clueless as to some others but that's part of the charm. Through it all, it's an interesting, if occasionally too brief look at that angle of Beatlemania. I say brief because each gets a chapter, no more, no less, although there is obviously going to be some overlap. Author Stuart Maconie begins with the largely unknown Ivan Vaughn, who was the then young boy who introduced John and Paul way back when. He would later go on to become an academic and had some contact with the band but was not a major figure. It basically concludes that section of the book with a look at Allen Klein who, upfront, Maconie points at as the deciding factor in the band's breakup. Many would agree, I'm sure. 

Perhaps the strength of this book is the author's easy going, rather conversational tone and that you're not being asked to tackle heavy topics. I mean, do you really, really need to know about the then young officer tasked with ending the roof top concert? Maybe not, but it was fun to get some perspective on his unexpected role. That's the fun of it all, seeing how serendipity played into many events and the results. Did they all change the world? Nope. That was up to the four lads from Liverpool. But they did have a role and it was both fun and intriguing to be reminded how many things did work out perfectly as opposed to the negative encounters. 

This book isn't about the Beatles, mind you, but the people around them. Serious, long time fans will probably recognize many of the names or at least the role they played while less intense fans can just enjoy this for what it is, a fun trip to the past. Bottom line, I enjoyed it and hope to give it another read when time permits. Thanks #Abrams for giving me an early "ticket to ride" ("read"? Grin) back to this look at those in the Beatles' crowded past. I give the author kudos, too, for revealing his own personal favorite Beatle upfront as well as his sense of why the band is worth another book or two as the book winds down. Beatles fans, you definitely will want to read this one. 

 

Walter the Woogobee, by Brenda Beckelman

 

Publication May 26, 2026

Although I rarely venture into the sci-fi realm, the premise of this book intrigued me. Well, that and the cover. An alien has landed and, hmm, it looks a lot like a dog. Maybe the aliens have us dog crazy humans figured out? In any case, it's Walter and he's a Woogobee. He's space/time traveled through a vortex, pressing the wrong button on a device given to him by his father. He winds up on planet Earth where he encounters a human boy named Bayon out riding his horse. Needless to say, both are a bit surprised (Did anyone ask the horse?)  but rather than assuming the other is the enemy, take time to talk (book explains how Walter manages this human task) and become friends. Walter tells Bayon his home village is being destroyed. Bayon decides to help Walter. And...that's when the adventure begins. 

I'm not going to detail their adventures and all the quirky and occasionally strange characters they encounter. Walter has other abilities that help, too, although I'll leave those for the reader to discover. The illustrations are fun, colorful, and add to the story. Make sure you spend some time checking out the many things to be found on most pages, not to mention the fun names given to some of the creatures they encounter. The text seems relatively short and easy to read and, as noted, the illustrations help any child struggling with the text to better grasp what is happening. The book's focus is on friendship and helping others, even when it isn't easy, and solving problems together rather than only relying upon oneself. All good messages to young readers. 

Bottom line, a fun, adventurous story that most children will enjoy. Thanks #IndigoRiverPress and #NetGalley for sharing this fun story with me early. I may have to wave aside my usual lack of interest in sci-fi for any future adventures of Walter. Walter can travel through time, after all. Grin.  

 

A Founding Mother: A Novel of Abigail Adams, by Stephanie Dray and Laura Kamoie

 

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Publication May 5, 2026

Wow. What a champion of women Abigail Adams was. I'm delighted to say she's an ancestor. In fact, it was that tie that lead me to pick up this book originally. I'm so glad I did. I came away wishing I could have known her.

I won't go into detail as I'm seeing many other fine reviews elsewhere that relate more content, but will say it was a fascinating, well written read. The authors obviously did their research for this fictional historic novel and it shows. They also go into detail at the end about what is true, what was shifted in time, and what was their interpretation of events. Much of the dialogue is taken from Abigail's letters to husband John Adams, then serving in France for the wannabe America, and others. It was fun to get to see another side of the usually taciturn presentation of John, giving us a view of his human side. Same with John Quincy, who certainly had his share of adventures, too, with and without his father and family. The rest of the family, especially first daughter Nabby (nickname used throughout) and even some of her romantic ups and downs. She's something of a stoic but finds love but, whoa, wait to you see just how strong and stoic she could be. Of course, like many early American families, the Quincy/Adams family was pulled apart by the war. I'm sure you'll see the same common elements of that time that seem to be reappearing today so I won't say any more about that. The strong emphasis is on Abigail, of course, and it brings home the many sacrifices and hardships the women left behind by those struggling for freedom and then to make a new country from that freedom will keep history buffs reading as familiar name after name pops up. I did get a chuckle out of the confusion many seem to have had between John and Samuel, not to mention mail meant for one going to the other. 

The history buff in me admittedly was interested in it all although it was a war of independence years that really pulled me in. After opening with a quick look at Abigail and John's first meeting and eventual marriage, it seemed like we were suddenly thrust into war. What a shock it had to be to most to find their still new land caught up in conflict and rebellion. This book gives you the human side of it, too, including not just the shock of armed soldiers in the street and neighbor pitted against neighbor, but the sudden shock of British tea becoming scarce to Abigail's distaste for the newfound drink of coffee. Ah, how times change tho' I'm a tea drinker myself. Maybe I'll claim I inherited my taste buds from Abigail? Grin. 

In any case, if you have any interest in history, particularly the era leading up to and following the revolution, including John's term as president and beyond, you'll thoroughly enjoy this book. If your interest is more human directed, you'll also find much to ponder here, from family squabbles, hardship, slavery, tenant farmers, travel difficulties, loneliness, and more. Among the names that pop up are Benjamin Franklin, Lafayette, and Thomas Jefferson, I'll note, particularly as it segues into the post revolutionary years. My sincere thanks to #WilliamMorrow and #NetGalley for allowing me this early peek at a book I expect to buy for my own shelves upon release. I have to smile picturing what Abigail Adams would have to say about modern women's rights. 

Murder, She Wrote: Murder Most Trivial, by Jessica Fletcher, Barbara Early

 

Publication May 12, 2026

Trivia Question #1: What actress was it announced would be taking on the role as a writer-sleuth in a rebooted television mystery series?  (Answer at end if you somehow don't know)

It's been a while since I've read a book in this series, I must admit. As a result, the book blurb mentions of the characters discussing how various fictional sleuths might approach a case was the draw. After entering and winning a local trivia contest on a whim, Jessica Fletcher and friends find themselves headed to Hollywood to participate in a reality show like trivia contest. They make a good team and are really just planning to have fun visiting Jessica's family there and being on the show. Well, the first part is definitely a go but the contest itself winds up with a murder on set. Anyone surprised which amateur sleuth is drawn into the investigation and actually has met the detective in charge beforehand? Oh, gee, you guessed.

Jessica's family and friends were a lot of fun. It was both fascinating and amusing to see them ponder and discuss answers during the contest, particularly in contrast to some of the other teams. Despite having entered the local pub contest on a whim, each seemed to have their own areas of expertise with some crossover. On the home front, we get the first of the side stories from niece Victoria and actor husband Howard who has appointed himself as chauffeur for their stay. The concern? Well, I won't give away much more of the plot but let's just say their home may or may not be haunted. Has Jessica done much ghost hunting? Who keeps calling Howard? There's also some odd goings on at the studio that, of course, Jessica who rarely misses much, picks up on. And, who has it out for the show host? 

Seriously, bottom line, I enjoyed connecting with Jessica, Doc/Seth, Mort, and Maureen and meeting Jessica's California relatives. While the tour of the mystery related dining spots got a bit too much for my taste, it was still fun to hear all the old celebrity gossip and see some of the back streets of Hollywood that we rarely see. As it turns out, they have an aging star staying with them, a plus for one of the side stories, whose star they come across. It was also fascinating to see what can be pulled off live audio/video tape. Thanks #BerkleyPublishingGroup and #NetGalley for nudging me just enough to get back into this series. Barbara Early seems to have an excellent feel for the television series as well as old time Hollywood. And, oh, back to the opening trivia question I asked. Jamie Leigh Curtis reportedly has been cast as Fletcher, though unsure if she'll be expected to step into the big shoes of the original Jessica or perhaps play a niece or some connection. 

Murder in Rome, by T A Williams

 

Publication May 2, 2026

Ah, Rome. The Eternal City. What a delight to be seeing it through the eyes of private detective Dan Armstrong, not to mention his trusty black lab, Oscar. Never mind a murder gets in the way of virtual sightseeing. You just know Dan and Oscar will have it under control soon. In the meantime enjoy the unexpected hidden tunnel in a castle even Dan finds a bit forbidding and, oh, the talk of a ghostly knight.  

Seriously, I've come to thoroughly enjoy this series. Dan is a keen observer and quite likable. True, he leaves his wife of about a week behind to take the assignment in Rome but, well, she okays it. You'll get to spend some time with her, btw. Oscar is, of course, probably my favorite character. He's pure dog with an instinct for who'll be soft touch for treats as well as for protecting his human. As a dog person, I definitely approve of Dan's ability to give him his regular walks. Not only does Oscar get some needed exercise to work off whatever treats he's been able to con out of the humans surrounding him but we get to see the area through Dan's eyes and the descriptions are well done and make you feel like you're right there. Although I came to this series late, I've also noticed there seems to be a side case of Dan doing some sort of seemingly benign errand for friends wherever he winds up, which gives us a better feel of his relationships with them. The characters, including suspects, are relatively well-fleshed out and you will be able to differentiate them quickly. Will you be able to discern whodunit? Well, maybe, though I wasn't sure until the end. 

Bottom line, a fun case of who killed client Tamsin Goodfaith's Uncle Phil or, to be more accurate, if it was even murder, and, whoa, why do bodies keep turning up. The plot moves along nicely without being slowed by the descriptive excursions, one of which turns out to be sorta spooky. Ghosts, anyone? Why does Oscar keep staring at that rusted suit of armor? What does he know that Dan doesn't? And, oh, much more fun to be had while trying to finger a killer. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for introducing me to Dan and Oscar and the early peek and virtual tour of an old castle and parts of, ah, Rome. It works well as a standalone and includes humor amidst the darker moments, so a fun read with intriguing characters. 

 

Chasing the Clouds Away, by Debbie Macomber

 

Publication April 28, 2026

Ah, a Debbie Macomber book. It somehow always makes me feel like it's time to cozy up in my most comfy PJs and curl up in the recliner under a nice warm blanket to settle in for what I just know will be a sweet read. While an opposites attract type, it rather morphs into a read emphasizing not just family but the dynamics of family that shape us. Both Maisy and Chase have faced dark days in their past so while it's fair to say they're opposites, you'll also discover that they have common ground.

That's good as, quite frankly, their not exactly meet cute doesn't showcase Chase well.  He's brusque and short tempered. Even worse, poor guy. He's going to have to fly commercial rather than in a private jet. Well, at least he gets a seat in first class, expecting never to see the woman who called him on his behavior. It's obvious from the beginning that Chase is used to getting what he wants, when he wants it. Maisy is apprehensive his misplaced anger may endanger her friend's job but maintains her calm. She's been taught from an early age that anger is often a cover for deeper feelings, hence she gives Chase the benefit of the doubt. She's absolutely delighted to be upgraded to first class where, you guessed it, she discovers her seatmate is none other than the rude guy from the airport. Chase is also less than excited to find the troubling woman there and pretty much tries to short circuit her tendency to engage in friendly chatter early on. Much to his surprise, after discovering the flight delay lead to his rental car not being held, Maisy offers him a ride. He's doubly shocked when she refused payment, simply telling him to pass it on. Let's just say, for someone used to money being able to get almost everything, that's a foreign policy to him.

I'm not going to detail the plot but that's pretty much where the story takes off. Chase is practically engaged but to his annoyance finds Maisy intriguing. As you'll discover, family dynamics have impacted both. The story moves along smoothly, albeit with the expected bumps along the way. I mean, Chase is practically engaged to the "perfect wife" for success. Maisy is just busy trying to help her family after giving up her dream of being a nurse. The chapters essentially alternate between them, giving us a good idea of their thoughts and past, which adds to the understanding as the story goes along. 

Bottom line, this was exactly the feel good story I was hoping for. In a sense, it was a reassurance that life can be full of joy if we only learn to get out of our own way. I mean, there is a difference between being proud and too proud, which you'll come to understand as you read. I found myself liking the main characters. Heck, even Chase's almost "perfect wife" turned out to be someone I think I'd have liked, not to mention Patrick, the baseball nut from Maisy's family was a fun character, too. I also noted that Macomber's early mention of a homeless vet outside the area of Chase's offices wasn't just there for word count. Nope. Not telling what I mean by that. You'll just have to read the book. Thanks #Ballantine for the early peek at this heartwarming, feel good romance. The epilogue was an extra nice touch.

A Midsummer Murder, by by Kate Wells

 

Publication April 18, 2026

Despite what seemed to me a slow start, I ultimately enjoyed this tale of the odd combo of a wellness retreat and murder. To be honest, given the almost cult like wellness retreat vibes, I wasn't expecting to find the story as intriguing. True, it took it a bit to evolve and pull me in but overall the mystery was clever with lots of viable suspects, all with equally viable reasons to want wellness guru Inigo Sage dead. It was also a good reminder that what happens in the past can haunt you for a lifetime. Secrets have a way of finding their way to the surface. 

Main character Jude Gray seems to be an oasis of calm in the midst of chaos for most of this book. I have to admit to initially not particularly liking either friend George or Kerry, the originators of the wellness retreat, as both came across as maybe not helpless but downright needy at times. Or was that Jude's belief? We find out that Jude seems to have a need to try to make everything right for everyone, even when she's being pulled in multiple directions. I was glad to see artist boyfriend Marco there for her, offering a strong shoulder for her to lean on, although I'd have loved to have spent a bit more time with her quirky, personable animals. I have to admit to smiling when Rodney Trotter, the tiny Shetland pony, and Wonky the donkey made an appearance. Yeah, I know. I can be easily amused, especially when I wasn't finding many humans to be sympathetic too much of the time aside from Granny Margot and her newfound internet expertise. 

As it turns out, of course, all of the regulars seem to have a lot going on in their own lives, so I did ultimately see the "why" of their behaviors. Young Sebbie, of course, Jude's nephew, remains a whirl of motion and enthusiasm for, well, almost everything, especially his toy plane and helping Marco. As for the wellness retreat participants, well, the overnight guests weren't very likable, with various degrees of belief in Inigo Sage's teachings. Do I need to tell you where the list of suspects came from? Grin.

Bottom line,I did ultimately realize that I had become invested in finding out whodunit. That's a good sign that I'd finally been pulled into the flow of the plot. 3.5 rounded up. It was actually rather intriguing to see how George and Kerry's concepts differed from the vibe that Inigo brought to the retreat. I liked the concept of not only the, let's call it, written note of regret being written and set free on a body of water in the form of a paper boat right down to both the paper and writing instrument being soluble and quick to dissolve. Both the symbolism and reality of the effort not to defile nature made sense and was touching. I also enjoyed Jude and detective Binnie's relationship and mutual trust. Jude's trips back to the farm where she did typical, to her everyday type farm chores helped set the story in reality. Lucy's story is a fun, one, too. So, slow start or not, I did enjoy the read. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for letting me drop in early on Jude's life to see what she's been up to. Loved the ending, too. Can't wait to see how that works out. 

A Summertime Murder, by Kate Grand

 

A Death in the Dark (A Novel Detectives Mystery Book 2), by Ellie Alexander

 

Publication April 21, 2026

I’ve got to had it to Annie and Fletcher. When a seemingly confused potential client shows up not only agitated but covered with blood, they don’t even flinch. Instead, they sit him down and start asking questions to gather timely information while trying to calm him. Could Josh have killed his fellow high school track coach and blanked it out of his mind? 

While I'll admit to not being too fond of Annie when the original series began, she quickly won me over. Let's face it. She had a lot to work through. She found her niche at the Secret Bookcase and has blossomed into not just a first class bookshop owner but a licensed private detective with Fletcher, he of all things Sherlock, with both still managing to run the bookshop and their Novel Detective practice. The book segues from the tense encounter with the bloody client-to-be to cozy moments in the bookshop and with friends, giving it an interesting vibe. Annie's romance with Liam has also blossomed and, of course, she can't resist popping in and out of friend Pri's coffee shop frequently. I enjoy the regulars, including relative newbie hires at the bookshop, making this a likable, character driven read for me. 

Bottom line, this is a fun read with ups and downs and, yes, even lots of bookshop talk in the midst of an investigation. I don't want to reveal much more of the plot and ruin your sleuthing other than to say the suspect list quickly widens. Could seemingly low-key English teacher Josh have actually killed Rob? And, speaking of schools, what is going on there? You'll learn a bit about track events, by the way, ranging from the choice of running shoes to how events are timed. Yet, in the midst of normal, every day life, things are not copacetic, a word Fletcher throws out at Annie. Too bad she didn't listen to him when he also made the suggestion that at the very least she should carry pepper spray. Yep, you guessed it. Annie once again finds herself in danger. And, oh, for long time readers, the side story of Hal's quest to prove his heritage also moves along with some intriguing revelations. Thanks #StormPublishing for introducing me to Annie and allowing me early peeks into how her life as a bookshop owner/private investigator is going. 

The Book of Sprout: A Magical Adzventure of Growth and Discovery, by Karen Norheim

 Publication March 10, 2026

Delightfully thought provoking and fun.

A bit of a cross between a magical journey and a young boy discovering the true meaning of life being a series of blank pages upon which he can write his story.  Sprout lived happily with his parents at the edge of a forest. They give him a blank book on his birthday with the explanation that it's up to him to create the story that will be within. Thus begins Sprout's journey to start collecting adventures to both experience and write about. And what a journey it is (and this is just one day in his young life). I won't detail the plot but will say we meet the probably expected encounters with a fire breathing (and itchy) dragon, a knight and a damsel in distress, not to mention a wizard and talking toad. 

The overall feel of the story is not just whimsical but descriptive.... you'll be easily able to visualize that maddeningly vague sign Sprout finds as he tries to find his way home. Of course, it leads to another adventure that tests his kindness and willingness to take risks as he tries to find the right path, both physical and otherwise. He also learns patience, sharing, and the joy of helping others, even if he isn't always the most adept. There are some lovely illustrations that capture the mood nicely, too, as well as both a glossary (for bold face words as you read) and study guide by chapters at the end. I liked that the study guide questions didn't ask for a single, right answer but encourage thought and imagination, too. 

The overall themes of the book, curiosity, whimsy, and the ability to learn as you grow while keeping your imagination strong, all come together well. Heck, there's even a section dealing with knowledge and the role of libraries. I particularly liked the author's section at the end where she tells how she came to rework her Uncle Richard Gleason's story and update if for a more modern reader. Like the book itself, the tale of his family's involvement in the recreation was heartwarming and I thoroughly enjoyed the bio of him provided at the end. Also, keep your eyes peeled for the photo of the statue of Sprout which I'm guessing was the cover inspiration. Thanks #RiverGroveBooks for the early peek and the reminder that life, like books, is what we experience and hopefully learn and grow from as we write out own stories.