Death a Sketch (A Paint & Shine Mystery), by Cheryl Hollon

How can you not like a book that includes Moonshine Cocktails recipes at the end?

Miranda Trent is hired by the Big Sky corporation, a prominent graphical design company, to put on a four day bonding workshop for the company. It's perhaps the biggest job she's tackled with her still relatively new business and it turns out to be even more of a challenge than she'd imagined. Not only does the corporate big-wig want it to be more competitive than bonding but the prize is, uh, you won't lose your job if your team wins. Miranda feels lucky that the administrative assistant sent along to assist is an ol' high school friend, well, at least until that old friend is found holding a bloody rock in her hand over a dead body. More amazing, the workshop isn't canceled. Determined not to let her old friend take the blame, Miranda sets out to find clues and the guilty party, all while hosting the various competitions and gatherings.

Although the book seemed to start slowly, it did allow new readers to get to know Miranda, her mother, and the reasons Miranda was willing to take on such a demanding, stressful job. Although I'd read the second installment of this now three book series, it was a nice refresher for even me and set up new readers nicely. Miranda is likable, hard working, loyal to friends and family and, genuinely seems to love the isolated beauty of her home It doesn't hurt that a handsome forest ranger is a neighbor, I'm sure. Ah, Austin, such a good guy. Heck, there's even an adorable puppy, Sandy. All this and a beautiful setting, not to mention some tasty moonshine and, hmm, romance?

In any case, oh, yes, the murder. Who killed Burns? Why? Was it one of the workshop participants that are still involved? I've got to admit, I was kept guessing until the end. Sabotage? How does forest ranger Austin get involved? Is Rowena innocent? How much do people change after their high school years? Will Miranda regret inviting Rowena to stay at her place for the duration of the workshop? Why does Tobin insist on those last minute changes? Is he really as cheap as he seems? Or, is he something worse than just cheap? Who... oh, never mind. You're just going to have to read the book for the answers to these and many other questions.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to shadow Miranda's frighteningly competitive bonding workshop. Looking forward to my next visit. I think I'll skip the sessions and just settle for sitting in the rocker on the porch under one of her mom's quilts while I scratch Sandy's ears.

Bound by Murder (Antique Bookshop Mystery #3), by Laura Gail Black

  

Publication date Sept. 6, 2022.

Wow, so much going on here. Jenna is having a great day until her ex-boyfriend, Blake Emerson, shows up with his bride-to-be, Missy Plott. But, why is he still professing his eternal love for Jenna, especially after turning his back on her during a previous hard time? Although this series is new to me, the author effortlessly fills us in on that injustice which wound up with Jenna spending some three months in jail charged with murder and embezzlement. When released, Jenna is met at the door to their home by Blake, coldly handing her the key to a storage locker, and left alone to start a new life.

Just to add another complication to the current situation, while Blake is harassing Jenna, Missy's ex, Tom, shows up vowing that Missy and he are meant to be. He makes a very public spectacle of getting down on his knee and proposing. Let's just say, Missy isn't kind. Seems Blake is far richer. In the span of just a few days, Missy also manages to alienate many of the other historic town's shop owners with her entitled attitude and nasty nature. Is it any surprise she eventually turns up dead, or that it's Jenna who finds the body? This is where things begin to get even more complicated.

Why are Blake and Missy even there? What is he telling Missy that makes her beyond angry at Jenna? What mad skill does Jenna display to discourage Blake? Why is policeman boyfriend Keith so unsure of Jenna's love? Why isn't even Jenna sure of her own motives or feelings, be it love or revenge? How will the previously traumatized Eddy handle all the stress? Is there any limit to a mother's love? Why is Blake just standing by while Missy is so loudly being beyond rude to his mother? Come to think of it, why didn't Jenna ever meet his mother? Why does the destruction of one particular book in her shop, Twice Upon a Time, by what seems arson, so saddening for Jenna? How is all this connected to Jenna's past? Who had a reason to kill Missy? What does Blake have to say about all this? What is the significance of a key? And, well, to find out you'll just have to read the book.

I wound up loving this book and plan to read the previous installments asap. Jenna is likable, cares about others, and growing in confidence in her life and friendships. The supporting cast is excellent and seem like people we'd all enjoy having in our own lives. Having the chance to overhear both their idle chatter and deeper conversations pulls us into the story, making us want to know what happens next, not to mention what really happened in Jenna's past that brought her here. Jenna's romance with Keith, though new, seems solid and able to grow in the future. And, of course, there is Eddy. I'm a sucker for dogs anyway but Eddy captured my heart, healing from past trauma just as Jenna is. This series is a winner.

Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for introducing me to Jenna, Keith, and her friends. And, hey, I'm sending Eddy a virtual treat. Good boy, Eddy.

Steeped to Death (Witches' Brew Mystery #1), by Gretchen Rue

Publishing Sept. 6, 2022

I loved this book. I'd be lying if I told you upfront that I would love it because, well, I always tend to be a bit skeptical of new to me authors that offer us magical mysteries, so to speak. I'm glad I was wrong and, quite frankly, have added author Gretchen Rue and the Witches' Brew Mystery series to my "must read" list.

Phoebe is in town to claim an inheritance from her late aunt. She's inherited both an old Victorian house, Lane End House, and her aunt's shop. And, oh, a cat named Bob. Turns out she's inherited more than that from her aunt, actually, not even counting the renter in the shop apartment. In the process of discovering how her world has changed, she copes with Dierdre who is not just pushy and obnoxious about demanding Phoebe sell her the house and shop but seems unable to take no for an answer. Then, a dead body is discovered at the shop's back door.

Who killed the man, whose name isn't even known to Phoebe initially? Why? Was he trying to rob the shop? Was he working with Dierdre? Why does Rich, who turns out to be an old friend from her childhood, keep turning up in unexpected places? How can Phoebe be both wary of and attracted to him at the same time? Why is he there? Why is the shoe store guy so hostile? Is there really a recipe that will make someone tell the truth? After a frightening nightmare, why does Phoebe go out for a run the next morning? What does she discover during lunch with Rich? Will Honey be helpful or just sell her a crystal? How many letters did her aunt write to Phoebe? Why.... oh, never mind. You'll have to read the book for the answers to these and many, many other questions. I went from skeptical and unsure about this book to loving it and you might find yourself doing the same. And, did I mention there are recipes at the end. No, not magical ones, sorry.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for allowing me to get to know Phoebe and her new friends. I'm looking forward to seeing more of this intriguing small town and its residents.

A Well Constructed Murder, by Reagan Davis

 
"Everyone has secrets. Some people just hide them better than others."

Great read! As a long-time fan of Davis' Knitorious series, I have to admit to going into this new series with some trepidation. What if I didn't like it? What if..... Oh, never mind. It didn't matter. I loved it. Given Davis' deft touch with words, that was surely predictable but nothing in the mystery was.

On the surface, the plot seems simple. Who killed contractor Fitz? Is the location a connection? But, whoa! Death by nail gun? Even more bizarre, the victim was "nailed" from both the back and front. It doesn't take any deductive skills for Karla to know there was no way the victim committed suicide. There is not only any way he could have shot himself, then carefully placed the alleged suicide note neatly atop his stomach, not to mention wiped both the nail gun and pencil used for the note clean of fingerprints. Yep, murder.

From there, the story moves along smoothly and quickly. We're introduced to the new series' characters of this small Canadian town as well as made aware that there seem to be plenty of secrets in town. Although my first question was who is driving that red pickup Karla is so diligently avoiding, that puzzle was immediately shoved aside as we meet her family, friends, and pets. I found myself loving all the characters, even mother Lynn who Karla seems to have issues with, as I sorted out who everyone was and their relationships. Given her budding amateur sleuth efforts, Karla is lucky in that both her father and half-sister are police while her best friend since kindergarten is the town's coroner/doctor. As such, Karla finds herself working with the police rather than against as is so often the case in cozy mysteries. I liked that.

So, who is Karla avoiding? Why? Is Karla really basically a human lie detector? How does BFF Rob/Robin explain this ability? Do we all have tells? Probably. Why was the suicide note crumpled? Was the murder personal or random? Why does Karla have such an extensive wardrobe? Is Leon as good a guy as he wants to be seen? Was Fitz guilty of sloppy construction as Harry thinks? What's in those envelopes? Where did what's inside come from? How good is Lynn's weather prediction ability? Will Gucci be legal or not? And....

Well, never mind. Read the book for the answers to these questions and more, including adorable dogs. You won't be disappointed. I know I'm delighted to have another binge-worthy series available, especially with the hints of what is coming next.

Murder Spills the Tea (Tea by the Sea Mystery #3), by Vicki Delany

Having reluctantly agreed to appear on a reality baking show, the show's production crew keep reminding Lily Roberts that a reality show has nothing to do with reality. Unfortunately, the dead body she discovers is very real. So, too, is the arrest of one of her staff for the murder. Lily, her grandmother Rose, and best friend Bernie must work together to find the real killer of Tommy Greene. Unfortunately, they too well know the detective in charge is one of those who tends to focus on the first suspect to come to light, meaning they need to help ensure that the truth prevails.

Lily and her friends and associates are likeable and the setting itself is a essentially a character in the book. Set in Cape Cod, you find yourself virtually traveling from the delightfully soothing beauty of the tearoom itself, with its quaint British aura and its garden, with it's tinkling teacups and drifting aromas from the flowers so lovingly tended by Simon, to the shoreline's crashing waves, rapidly rising tide, and slippery rocks. And, hey, there's a dog, too, not to mention a cat. Toss in hints of a growing romance, a budding author, and old world eloquence and it's all the more startling that a murder took place.

So, who did it? I'm obviously not telling. Could it have been the mayor's obnoxious husband? How about the mayor herself? Did one of the other judges kill Tommy for reasons not even connected to the show? Who is related to who? Does all the food talk make you hungry? Or, maybe thirsty for a cup of properly prepared tea? How far would you go to protect a member of your family? Does Lily really, really want to go where the evidence leads? Who was the mystery woman in the garden? Did Lily lock that door or not? And, what's going on with Simon? You'll have to read the book for answers to these questions and more. It's fast paced and will keep you turning the pages.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to Tea By the Sea to spend a bit more time getting to know Lily and friends. I'd like a table in the garden, please.

The Boys: A Memoir of Hollywood and Family, by Ron and Clint Howard

 

Short on time, so just a quick, rather rambling overview of my take on this one, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Its focus is on family and respect/responsibility, but lots of show biz insights, too.

This is probably the best celebrity memoir I've read. Those who grew up watching Ron and Clint grow up before their eyes on the "Andy Griffith Show" and beyond, will find much to enjoy and smile over. Sadly, particularly in the case of Clint, they'll also learn that the Howard boys' life wasn't all sunshine and easy street. Clint confronts his addiction to drugs and alcohol within and Ron shares his experiences breaking out of the stereotypical "nice guy" role he seemed to carry so easily. Despite his early acting success, he seemed focused on making movies, not staring in them, and it's both fascinating and a hoot to read his tales of his earliest movies, most starring family and a few friends. "Grand Theft Auto" was his big break, of course, but only came after appearing in "American Graffiti" and being cast as Richie in "Happy Days".  All was not fun and games behind the scenes of even the latter, either, as Ron found himself slowly being edged out of his own show by the unexpected popularity of Henry Winkler's Fonzi role. To his credit, Winkler remains on of his best friends today, by the way, and flew cross country to attend Ron's wedding to Cheryl, also attended by Andy Griffith and Don Knotts.

Through it all, the emphasis is on family. Luckily for Ron and Clint, parents Rance and Jean Howard proved that being parents came first, not promoting their children's career. An actor himself, Rance's role in helping Ron and Clint learn to prepare as actors, to actually inhabit their character rather than just making cute faces and spouting lines that had no meaning to them, stands out. Rance and Jean were there every step of the way, saving the money Clint and Ron were making for their futures rather than spending it on themselves. Many other child stars cannot say the same thing, alas. 

In any case, I found it particularly interesting to not just read about some of the little tricks of the trade that were normal to the young actors but to hear how entranced Ron was with the entire process at an early age. Even as a child, his dream seemed to be more targeted toward directing and producing than being the star. Look at him now! Clint never quite reached the acclaim his brother did but has a solid resume of acting jobs and, after getting sober, sounds like he is in a good place. The obvious affection and, yes, love the brothers share is evident throughout, as is their love and respect for their parents. And, oh, how sweet is it that Ron's wife, Cheryl, was his first real girlfriend. How un-Hollywood of you, Ron. 

It's a Wonderful World: How to Protect the Planet and Change the Future, by Dr. Jess French

Living in Alaska where wildlife is frequently as close as our own front yards, I found this book an informative read. It's fascinating and I'm smugly glad to have been successful in making myself wait until Earth Day, today as I type, to post a review. While the target audience seems to be perhaps middle school, it is a wonderful addition to anyone's library no matter what their age. Younger children might not be able to grasp all the words but interaction with a parent or other adult as they look at the photos and discuss what they are seeing opens it up to all ages. An easy read with many colorful illustrations and graphics, it breaks down huge chunks of information into easily digested, understood bites for the reader, no matter your age.

I also particularly liked that in the midst of the info sharing, the author (and illustrator Aleesha Nandhra) remind us to take the time to not just watch but really enjoy such everyday events as a sunrise or sunset. Preservation is emphasized but so, too, is to simply enjoy the wonders of nature while marveling at its intricacies and interconnections. Having been fortunate enough to glimpse an abundance of wildlife on a glacier tour, think the ice sheet section, I can appreciate seeing a glacier bear live even more now. It was also intriguing to be reminded of the life going on beneath or feet, too, as well as why different species adapted to different environments and how.

Bottom line, a wonderful book for our wonderful world. Thank you #NetGalley and #DK - #DKChildren for inviting me on your lovely, colorful tour of our wonderful world.

Writers on Writing: Inside the lives of 55 distinguished writers and editors, by Chip Scanlan

Writers on Writing: Inside the lives of 55 distinguished writers and editors

by 

Chip Scanlan (Goodreads Author),

 

Ray Hoy,

 

Becky Blanton (Illustrator),

 

Lillie Fair (Editor)

You'll learn new things. You'll be reminded of writing truths you know but have perhaps forgotten or, worse, ignored. You'll even look on long established writing habits with a new eye. Even if you consider yourself "just a reader" you'll come away with a newfound respect for the words, the heart and soul of the writer, that you read on the page. And, who know, you might even be inspired to set down a few of your own words. 

I won't detail the information shared as it will apply to each in different ways. Instead, I'll simply say that this one should be on your bookshelf. Thanks to #NetGalley and #BooksGoSocial for allowing me a peek into some of these author's minds and work habits. 

Poppy Harmon and the Backstabbing Bachelor (A Desert Flowers Mystery #4), by Lee Hollis

 

I felt the tense, uneasy feeling Poppy Harmon felt as her stalker began to track and stalk her by any means possible. Author Lee Hollis did an excellent job putting readers into her shoes as she began to look over her shoulders and wonder what each phone call or message would bring. Poppy's strength of character, however, shines forth as she is determined to go about her life on her own terms, not the stalker's. True, I also felt like she made a few unwise choices, like not getting out of town with her boyfriend when he almost begged her to go with him, but, hey, this is a cozy mystery. Putting the main character in danger is all part of the fun, right?

Although this is the fourth in the Desert Flowers Mystery series, I'd never ventured into Poppy's world despite reading several Hollis books. I liked Poppy and her friends and admired her willingness to do whatever was necessary to bring down the bad guy. Speaking of the bad guy, Hollis kept me guessing until the big reveal. I won't detail the plot as I'm sure it's detailed many times over elsewhere but found it interesting and timely. Readers beware, however, if you honestly believe reality shows are, well, real. You get a bit of a behind the scenes look at how they are scripted, er, developed. Poor Matt. As noted, Hollis created the atmosphere to make me keep flipping pages as the story moved along nicely. I'll definitely be making up for missing the earlier books of this series asap.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for introducing me to Poppy. I'm looking forward to seeing what her next challenging performance will be

Playing With Myself, by Randy Rainbow

Which one of these is Randy Rainbow? The overweight, introverted child wearing a cartoon t-shirt? The boy being bullied in the school yard? The child hiding in his room to avoid his father's anger? The star of many a school musical? The boy who spent most date nights with his grandmother? The boy who would eventually count the legendary Stephen Sondheim as a friend? The one who cried when his cat had to be put to sleep? The multi-talented star of many a viral video?

If you said all of the above, you are right. Randy Rainbow is all of these and more. I came to this book as a fan of his viral videos expecting a light but intriguing look at his rise to video stardom but came away with far more respect for him than I could have imagined. His story manages to be both humorous and sadly enlightening for those of us who never had to walk in his shoes or, this being Randy, ruby slippers.

Randy Rainbow is his real name, btw. If you are at all familiar with his work you are likely familiar with the that he portrays in his videos, the heightened, campy persona that frequently breaks out in song. He writes like I'd imagine he'd talk. I found myself almost waiting him to break out in song somehow, never mind I was reading a print copy of "Playing With Myself". I found myself not only liking him but adoring his mother and grandmother. Apparently I share that with Carol Burnett, yes, that Carol Burnett.

Bottom line, I came to learn more about how Randy Rainbow makes his videos. I came away not only with a good idea of how that happens but a genuine respect and liking for the man behind the pink eyeglasses. "Playing With Myself" is a winner, especially for someone who claims not to be terribly political and even, no lie, compares his father to Donald Trump's personality.  

Thank you #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for this wonderful introduction to this multi-talented man.

The Ecological Buffalo: On the Trail of a Keystone Species by Wes Olson, Johane Janelle (Photographs)

 

The Ecological Buffalo: On the Trail of a Keystone Species

by

Wes Olson,author/researcher

Johane Janelle (Photographs),

Harvey Locke (Foreword),

Leeroy Littlebear (Afterword)

 

I honestly wasn't sure what to expect from this book other than, hopefully, lots of lovely photos. I lucked out. I not only got the lovely photos but a very readable, intriguing look at the role of the buffalo in the ecological system. While I won't pretend to be an expert, I found it not only understandable but a relatively easy read, even when statistics were tossed at us. I won't even try to detail all the information within. This book is the culmination of decades of observation and study of the buffalo. Instead, I will settle for explaining the use of the term "keystone".

For me, having had a killer good humanities teacher, it took me back to the classroom when we were discussing Roman architecture. Think about the giant stone arches of which you've surely seen pictures. The central stone, the one atop the arch at the top center is called the keystone. Take that stone away and the rest of the arch will collapse. Without the keystone, the strongest of arches can't stand. In the ecological world, the buffalo served much the same role in its environment.

As someone who grew up watching countless westerns, I've of course heard stories and read about the buffalo and its importance to the Native Americans. Every part was somehow utilized, right down to the tongue. What I hadn't thought about was how non-human species, or even the, say, grass growing on the plains was impacted by the near complete destruction of the once enormous buffalo herds in the late-1800s. Did you know how even gophers and woodpeckers and other birds were impacted by the loss of the herds? For instance, the buffalo grazed in the areas the gophers dug their holes. Since the buffalo grazing kept the grasses and brush down around the gopher colonies, there was less chance of a predator sneaking up on them. As for the woodpecker, I was startled to discover how much they seemed to have enjoyed feasting on the ant colonies that were built in, hmm, let's say bison dung, and the disappearance of the buffalo of course lead to there being fewer ant colonies and, thus, fewer birds. An ornithologist, a US Army surgeon, kept records of birds seen and noted the loss of the Sprague's lark but didn't make the connection at the time to the relatively sudden disappearance of the vast buffalo herds.

That sort of fascinating information is just the tip of the iceberg, so to speak. All illustrated by lovely photos of both the buffalo and other ecological neighbors. Author Harvey Locke does a great job of connecting the dots, pulling all the facts together and showing how they are related and had an impact on a wide variety of species as well as the land. The photos by Johane Janelle are a bonus. I'm certainly not a student of the buffalo but have enjoyed observing them at one of the wildlife centers as well as following the release of the bison to the Alaskan wilds. This book make me understand not just the animal itself but the importance of heir continued survival to humans and the world we share with a wide variety of species. if you have any interest in ecological systems and how the work in unison, history, wildlife, or simply like looking at pretty pictures, this book should be on your bookshelf. Well written, clearly written, and informative without talking down to us, it's a winner.

Thank you #NetGalley and the #UniversityOfReginaPress for allowing me to spend such an enjoyable time getting to know the amazing creature better. We ARE all interconnected.

Casserole Casualty (Twister Sisters Mysteries Book 2), by Mildred Abbott

 

I just came off reading a much faster paced book, so it did take me awhile to sort out the characters and settle into the slower pace of this one. I love the use of illustrations at the beginning of each chapter. They reveal who will be the focus of that particular chapter. The Twister Sisters, sisters Cordelia and Pamela and friend Wanda, run a catering service that also delivers to the elderly and shut ins, utilizing their uniquely decorated "Hippie Wagons". Each of those is unique to the characters, too, with Cordelia's flowers, Pamela's hearts, and Wanda's stars. Unfortunately, one of their customers is found dead and it is later proven to be murder. Cordelia seems to be the one most driven to find out "whodunit", which causes even more problems than usual with some of the residents that she has had perpetual trouble with for decades. Think small town America, long time residents, long time grudges and feuds. I won't detail the plot further as it is readily available.

Despite it taking me awhile to settle into the rhythm of the story, I enjoyed my visit with the Twister Sister and those about them. Well, most of them. I'd be giving Lester a wide berth, I'm afraid. I liked that they are older, too, although the overall cast of characters seems to offer a diverse range of age, color, and attitudes. Race is addressed in the story, btw. Being set in a small town, many of the characters are related, either by blood or marriage, something I found a trifle hard to keep straight, lovely illustrations or not. This is only the second of a series, of course, so I expect all that to be better sorted as the series goes along. For those coming from the Cozy Corgi series, there is not only a dog here, Ursa, but a fun goat named Breakfast that provides humor. There is also a nod to Katie of Corgi Cozy when a shared recipe is mentioned. Two very different books but nice to see them tied together occasionally.

Bottom line, an enjoyable ride. For me it isn't quite great yet, which may be on me as much as on the book, but it was still fun to follow along as the truth is discovered bit by bit, clue by clue. Romance seems to be blooming, too. And, oh, did I mention there are a couple recipes at the end? A fun read which shows promise as the series continues.

Breakup ( Kate Shugak #7 ), by Dana Stabenow

Originally posted on my Facebook page April 19, 2012.  Couldn't resist sharing it here and thus saving it. It remains one of my favorite Stabenow books, btw. 

"Just finished re-reading Dana Stabenow's "Breakup" again. Dana, this was the first book of yours that I ever read and I even remember where I bought it, the gift shop in Denali Park while waiting to go out on one of the wildlife tour buses. That was om 2000. I didn't read it until later, which is probably just as well as I probably wouldn't have been as enthralled to see grizzly bears that first time as I was. Shiver. 

 

Loved that Kate was such a multi-dimensional character with her own demons and strengths and sense of responsibility. Bottom line, folks, if you haven't discovered Dana's Kate Shugiak series, this one will hook you. Grizzly bears, jet engines falling on your cabin, and dead bodies turning up in the first few pages do tend to grip your attention."

 

The Genius Kid's Guide to Dogs, by Merriam Garcia

Publication Sept. 6, 2022

I don't know that this will make your kid a genius but it will definitely provide them with solid information on a wide variety of dog breeds, their characteristics, and traits. Since I'm owned by a corgi mix, I opted to use that breed as an example. While my girl is a mix, she seems to fit nicely within the Cardigan Welsh Corgi guidelines. One thing it mentions that I'd noticed but hadn't realized was a breed trait was that they tend to have bowed legs, hence their feet point outward. I'd just thought it was some quirk of my own dog. Cool.

This book won't tell you everything there is about every dog breed in existence but is a nice addition to any library, child or adult. It will tell you what the breed is known for, where it originated, and, among others, special considerations. I found those particularly useful as that included energy levels, ie amount of exercise needed daily, herding tendencies, whether they are shedding machines, and inclination to gain weight. I was definitely interested in that aspect. There is more, such as a short list of other target audience level books, and index, and photo credits for the lovely photos used as illustration. You won't learn everything there is to know about dogs from this book but it provides a solid foundation. One to add to the shelf. Adults may find it sparse on detail but for the targeted audience, works nicely.

Thank you #NetGalley and #NorthStarEditions - #NorthStarKids for allowing me a sneak peek. I love the cover and even learned something about my own dog!

Becoming, by Michelle Obama

Excellent read (really a re-read for me) with insight into her mind at times re world events but mostly focused on the issues that were important to her. Looks at how being in White House had an impact on daughters and really everyone as real people not just faces on the tv. I think that is what I liked most, the look behind the curtains at “real people “ with feelings and beliefs without slamming others. Read it!

NetGalley's Book Advocate Toolkit, by We Are Bookish

I wish I'd had this guide about six months ago when I decided to dive into seriously reviewing books. It would have saved a few headaches. Having skimmed and then read it through several times now, I am glad to have this guideline. I don't know that I'll ever venture into all the currently suggested platforms but it's nice to have a basic guide should I ever do so. The publisher notes that this is a living document, one that will evolve and change with the times, so I expect to delve into it periodically. That is a major plus. I see the same questions asked repeatedly on media pages on some of the programs actually suggested, so hopefully the next edition will tackle some of them. The fact it's easy to read is another. My hunch is even those who simply review the occasional book for fun and have never heard of NetGalley might find it useful. Now, if it could just teach me to be less long-winded. 

Death of an Ice Cream Scooper (Hayley Powell Mystery), by Lee Hollis

Finding the body of a young ice cream worker in the refrigerator of an ice cream truck is not how Lydia and Hayley hoped to start their day. Who killed Miranda? That question becomes the driving force behind most of Hayley's thoughts and actions over the next days. Well, true, she has a few distractions, like her son's big news and feuding best friends. BTW, does everyone in Bar Harbor leave their doors unlocked?

I loved visiting Bar Harbor and witnessing Hayley in action. There rarely seems to be down time in her days. She has family and friends who have her back, a business, a column writing job that she enjoys, and a lovable dog. And, oh, yeah, she solves mysteries. The column, which frequently pops up between chapters, offers insight into her life and family/friends, all making the reader all the more familiar with who she and they are. Even better, there are recipes included with each column entry, a yummy extra.

I won't detail the plot, it's easily available, but will say that this was a fast moving plot with fun, distinct characters, and more than one side-story. Like, who will George, or is it Chuck, choose? Will Hayley accept that her baby boy is now a grown man? Will it be a boy or a girl? Does Lydia have anything to worry about, well, besides the dead body in her ice cream truck freezer? Fish? What does a fish have to do with anything? Why is Kimmy being so helpful? Will Hayley be able to convince Bruce to go on that vacation? And, oh, well, I guess it all depends on finding the answer to the important question, who killed Miranda and why? Hayley is a take-charge person, so whose feathers will she ruffle? Nope, not telling. You'll have to read the book to find the answers to these and, oh, so many other questions. A thoroughly fun read, with characters that you'll both wish you knew and roll your eyes at occasionally... or maybe frequently.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonPress for the invite to Bar Harbor. Hayley's life tends to wear me out but it's definitely never dull.

No Parm No Foul (Grilled Cheese Mysteries #2), by Linda Reilly

Would it surprise anyone if I tell you that I simply had to have a grilled cheese sandwich while reading this one? Didn't think so. Any excuse for a grilled cheese for us grilled cheese fans works. In any case, between bites, I found the story intriguing if a bit bemusing at times. The red herrings seemed to come at us fast and furiously, pointing main character Carly and the rest to different suspects at different times. And, who knew a Halloween costume choice might make place you directly on the police's radar for murder? Or that a local, seemingly frivolous competition between businesses for the right to call themselves the best eats could be so cut-throat? Fakes ballots? Confrontations? Anger? All for a plaque and prize that most felt they'd donate on to charity? Yep, that's right.

The morning after the festive gathering and competition, one of the competitors, the winner of the past three years, is found murdered. What does a partial footprint have to do with anything? When did Ari last see his boots and the generic Dracula cape? Could the figurine clutched in the victim's hand be a clue? Why didn't Carly report the vandalism to her vehicle? Should Carly be worried that the dead man's daughter wants to work for her temporarily? Why is the school board's efforts to cut its budget important? Who'd harm sweet Evelyn? Why are the police watching Carly's home? Why.... oh, so many questions. Nope, not telling. You'll have to read the book for the answers to these and more, not to mention to find out what's in the future for talented musician/chef-wannabe Grant.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #PoisonedPenPress for inviting me over for a grilled cheese. It was fun to hang out with Carly and fun dog Havarti for awhile. Looking forward to more of their adventures. 

Aunt Dimity and the Enchanted Cottage (Aunt Dimity Mystery #25,) by Nancy Atherton (Dreamscape Audio)

 

I love this series. True,  the first time I read one of its book I kept waiting for a murder to happen. Oddly enough, although that didn't happen, I found myself settling into the rhythm of life in Fitch, a place where everyone knows your name and business. Opening with a lovely, peaceful audio tour of Fitch and some of what makes it so special, you feel yourself relaxing, slowing down, enjoying the friendly chatter and gossip of the characters. The town itself seems almost a separate character, in fact, with its scenic beauty and seeming operating motto of "everyone knows...." Instead of feeling oppressed by that knowledge, it's comforting. It allows you to focus on the main thread: Who is the new neighbor and why does he seem to sad?

Narrator Christina Moore does a lovely job of introducing us to the various characters, expertly adapting her voice to each, even main character Lori's daughter's repeated "quacks". I enjoyed the gentle humor as I settled into a comfortable chair on "Windle Watch" with Lori's friends, sipping my tea and rolling my eyes at some of the theories offered up about new resident Crispin Windle. I'd also love to have a mysterious, magical blue tablet that "talked" to me as the late Aunt Dimity does to Lori. That touch of whimsy, rather than intrude, just seems part and parcel of this little town where "it's always been like this" seems a ruling guideline.

As delightful as it is to spend time with friends, of course, there is a mystery. Even as we learn more about Crispin Windle we wonder why he is so focused on seemingly finding one particular landmark in the area. A retired industrial historian, he digs up some of Fitch's past that maybe many would just as rather stay buried. Toss in side-stories of romance, the past impacting the present, and a daughter's perpetual energy and enthusiasm and you've got an idea what is going on. So, set aside all thoughts of murder and mayhem, slip into something comfortable, prepare some tea, and curl up on a cozy chair and enjoy Lori's latest mystery of life. This, the 25th book in the series, shows why it's a continued winner.

Thank you #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for allowing me to drop into Fitch and spend some time sipping tea and listening to the gossip as life goes on in front of me. For a small town where not much happens, big things seem to change in Fitch. Love meeting the new residents as they move in.

Easter Bonnet Murder (A Lucy Stone Mystery, #28), by Leslie Meier

Lucy Stone is one of my favorite amateur sleuths. I've always felt that she very much comes across as a real person with both strengths and occasionally glaring weaknesses. Unlike many amateur sleuths who seem to be single women, Lucy is not only a wife and mother but a working woman. Her job as a reporter for the weekly town newspaper gives her an edge on many other sleuths, too, although I doubt the single ones can even imagine dealing with a moody teenage daughter like Zoe. I've read this series for years so "The Easter Bonnet" was a bit like curling up on a comfy couch and catching up with ol' friends.

And, boy, there are a lot of things going on in Lucy's life. As a reporter, Lucy is familiar with Heritage House, a senior care facility and thought it was an excellent facility. Therefore, when her friend Miss Tilly must go there to recuperate from a stroke and continuing blood pressure issues, she expects nothing more than pleasant visits. The facade begins to slowly erode, however, when a resident goes missing and is eventually found dead in an emergency staircase. Rather suspicious given the victim's tendency toward claustrophobia.

Prodded by the woman's daughter, Lucy reluctantly promises to see what she can find out. In the process we discover perhaps more than we'd like to know about how some of our treasured elders are viewed and treated. We also learn a great deal about how the tangle of Medicare, insurance, billings, deductions, and more play into the picture. It isn't long before Lucky discovers Heritage House has been cited for several violations in the past and is regularly under-staffed, with staff members being expected to put in long hours, often with minimal training.

I won't detail the plot any further except to say author Leslie Meier also manages to work in everything from mean girl behavior, rental cautions, and racial attitudes to, no lie, war crimes. Kudos to Meier for pulling it all together while also sharing Lucy's family highs and lows. It takes a talented author to make it all work and Meier does. Oh, and I almost forgot, she even includes a mama bear and her cubs. Seriously, you need to read this book or, as in my case, the audio version.

Thanks to #NetGalley, #KensingtonPublishing, and #DreamscapeMedia for the advanced copy. 

Fireside Reading of A Study in Scarlet, by Arthur Conan Doyle (audio)

Audio version read by Gildart Jackson. 

What a delightful reminder that Dr. Watson and Sherlock Holmes didn't just spring forth from the womb as the dynamic working team we all know. Written in 1887, it first appeared as an installment series in a magazine and, well, was less than a hit. Some hits obviously take a while to build up steam, I guess. I won't detail the plot, it is a classic after all and easily found, but will say that long-time readers of the series might do well to dive into this one to freshen up their memories. We've seen so many depictions of the duo on stage and screen that I found I'd forgotten details.

Besides, listening to Gildart Jackson's reading of the story is fun and reminds us how odd Holmes really must have seemed to not just John Watson but readers meeting Holmes for the first time, too. I must admit that I wasn't fond of the music heard between chapters but am still undecided if that was because of the music itself or my own impatience to get on with it. All in all, however, despite the big leap from London to the US that the setting takes us through, I enjoyed this and will be on the lookout for more interpretations from Gildart Jackson.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #DreamscapeMedia for inviting me back in time to meet the orginal Holmes and Watson.

Death at the Dinner Party (Adam and Eve Mystery #2), by Emma Davies

The power that money brings can also destroy.

Well paced with multiple clues, likeable characters, and an deceptively simple plot, "Death at the Dinner Party" did no disappoint. I was lucky enough to have read the first in the series and was delighted to see the growth in both Francesca Eve and Adam. Adam, in particular, has grown in self-confidence and his social skills, though I somehow kept expecting him to whip out a myriad of clever gadgets as the story progressed. Didn't happen, well, there was that time....never mind. Not giving away that bit but will say it involves ants. Francesca/Fran and he make an interesting pairing, hardy to normal sleuthing duo, I'd say, but effective in their observational skills and deductive abilities. But, dang, there is that one pesky clue, a missing piece of artwork, that complicates all their theories. Who stole that piece of art? Since all the suspects are still at the estate, how did they get it out of there?

Keith Chapman is murdered in his own home. There are numerous suspects, each with a seemingly strong motive to have killed him. Fran is simply there to cater and isn't 0n Det. Chief Inspector Nell Bradley's radar until she reveals that she may have very likely been the last to see the victim alive. Adam, who has helped as asked but is mostly hanging out, researching stately homes for a computer game he is developing, only becomes invested in the case when Fran becomes a suspect. Now, true, I didn't get the idea that Nell really believed for a moment that Fran was a true suspect but Fran's sense of dread is real, nevertheless. How would you react if you were told you were at the top of a suspect list for murder? Adam is highly intelligent and his growing skills at people watching, or maybe maybe listening, prove helpful, as do the observations of the housekeeper, Rachel.

The guests are supposedly wealthy and have it all but, as Fran observes, none of them seem happy. Heather even seems to be frightened. Why is she so worried? Is Mimi, the eloquently styled widow, as distraught as she acts? How about her tendency to, uh, collect so many male friends? What exactly is the Chapman project the guests are vying for? Who did he pick? Why was he playing games when it came to choosing who would be allowed to invest? How much must that amazing ice sculpture have cost the Chapman's? What made Richard so angry he threw his expensive phone at a courtyard wall? Did Oliver really think Mimi and he would eventually marry? Speaking of Mimi, why were her hands so red and even appearing to be burned? What is the difference between a solicitor and barrister? And, who stole that dang painting? Nope, not telling. You'll have to read the book to get the answer to that and the rest. I'm betting if you like clever mysteries that keep you turning the pages as you get to know some enjoyable characters, you'll enjoy this one as much as I did.

Thank you #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me back to visit Fran/Eve and Adam again. The ending was thoroughly satisfying. 

The Memory Keeper of Kyiv, by Erin Litteken

Stunned. I was absolutely stunned as I read "The Memory Keeper of Kyiv". History repeats itself. This isn't an easy read. Reality slaps us in the face. But, it's an important read. Even as a history major who was certainly aware that awful things happened there, seeing that knowledge translated into words and characters we quickly came to like and care about made it all the more horrifying. People going about their everyday lives, loving, living, laughing, sharing first kisses... Then it's all ripped away from them. The cruelty of war. The desperation. The randomness. The lives destroyed. Erin Litteken captures it all in this novel, using the format of a modern character discovering her grandmother's journal as a means of bringing the past to the present. As we reel today of a story of a Ukrainian man going out to simply walk his dog, something I do daily, and being shot in the head by invading forces, we see the past happening in the present. Yes, history repeats itself.

I won't attempt to detail the plot and take away any of your immediate reaction to the story. The book uses alternating viewpoints. One is of present day Cassie, a still grieving widow, and her daughter, who go to stay with Cassie's grandmother while she recovers from an accident. The other is of 16 year-old Katya (the grandmother) as she shares her first kiss and hears whispers of invasion and awful tales of events elsewhere. Cassie discovers her journal. We follow her throughout the invasion and eventual Holodomor, a time of a man-made famine when keeping a single shaft of wheat to feed a starving family could be a death sentence. Friends and loved ones simply disappear. Children are snatched from their homes, never to be seen again. People are forced to make life or death decisions every day. Katya chooses to live. This is her story, yes, but also the story of her family, past and present, Cassie looks to her future, too, with hope.

I know now why Ukrainians fight so bravely and relentlessly. They know the consequences. This book, ironically conceived of even before the 2014 invasion of Crimea, should be required reading for anyone with an interest in history and current events, not to mention in learning the truth. Katya's story, fictional as it is, must be told.

Thank you #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks for allowing me the opportunity to read #TheMemoryKeepersOfKyiv.

 

From GoodReads: "Erin Litteken is a debut novelist with a degree in history and a passion for research. At a young age, she was enthralled by stories of her family’s harrowing experiences in Ukraine before, during and after World War II. She lives in Illinois, USA with her husband and children."

Mystery at Lovelace Manor (Eve Mallow #8,) by Clare Chase

Eve Mallow fascinates me. On the one hand she lives a buttoned up life as she keeps her private life and growing romance with Robin shrouded in secret. On the other, she's outgoing, well known and liked as a community friend, worker, and volunteer. She definitely more observant than the average person. I mean, who else would spot a tiny hole in a juice bottle and connect it to murder? Or think that a discarded gum wrapper might lead to a meaningful clue? An excellent writer and interviewer, her obituary writing job gives her the perfect excuse to ask questions without being looked askance at. She displays dogged determination to find the truth, even when it puts her in danger, too.

I loved the fact that in her quest to find the truth behind the murder of celebrity dare-devil Cammie, that there were no big reveals. Yes, she gets tiny bits of information here and there, but it's up to her to put it all together. It's fascinating to watch. Death by hot-air balloon isn't exactly a common murder tactic, you have to admit. Toss in a grand, stately home, competing personalities, and the possibility money and prestige is involved and Eve is in the midst of a volatile situation. Then the dead bodies start piling up. What secret could be so dangerous, so harmful, that it has lead someone to commit murder to keep it from being revealed? Or, hmm, was it all about money? Maybe love, or rejected love?

It seemed like for every legitimate clue Eve found, it only lead to more questions. What, if anything, had Cammie discovered in her research? Was Raven friend or foe or, for that matter, even really Raven? Could Diana be involved? How about successful model Sebastian? How could someone ignite the leaking gas from the balloon from the ground? Why was Ralph Roscoe insistent he jump into the balloon basket with Cammie? As the murders pile up, so do the suspects but, then, so does the business for the funeral director. Was he for real? Was he trying to ask Eve for a date or to buy a casket? And....oh, so many more questions, all of which we ponder both on our own and inside Eve's mind as we read.

Despite a deceptively slow beginning as the hot-air balloon murder plot plays out, the plot moves along quickly as Eve pursues gathering info for the obituary she's to write on Cammie. The twists, turns, and misdirection kept me guessing until the end. I liked Eve and Robin, not to mention Eve's little dog Gus. I loved the plot and pace, which kept my attention. even though I didn't guess "whodunit", it all made sense at the end. Nicely done, Clare Chase. I highly recommend "Mystery at Lovelace Manor".

Thank you #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me into Eve's world again. You can almost see the wheels turning in her brain, even when running for her life.

Peg and Rose Solve a Murder, by Laurien Berenson

Will Peg and Rose survive each other as they work together to solve who murdered Stan? For me, it was as much fun watching them sort out their long-time fractious relationship as it was watching them figure out who did it. Who knew a simple invitation to play bridge together could put them in danger? 

Peg, a no-nonsense, take no prisoners type, immediately sets out to see what she, er, they can find out themselves. Rose, an ex-nun now married to a former priest, is initially reluctant but secretly delighted to find that she's not only enjoying the process but that she is rather good at it. Will it put them in danger? Definitely. 

If you're a fan of the Melanie Travis series, you will immediately feel at home with "Peg and Rose Solve a Mystery". It works beautifully as a standalone as much of the background is naturally shared as Peg and Rose tentatively share information about their past and present, which includes mentions of not just Melanie, who sends a post card from vacation, but Crawford and Terry. Both Peg and Rose, despite their differences, are likeable and care, even if it takes them awhile to come to the realization that this includes about each other. I mean, Rose doesn't even like dogs. Dogs have been Peg's world ever since she married Rose's late brother Max. I highly recommend this book to both dog and cozy mystery lovers. It's a winner. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to play bridge and hang out with Peg and Rose. Having those lovely dogs about was a bonus. 

Second-Chance Dogs: True Stories of the Dogs We Rescue and the Dogs Who Rescue Us, by Callie Smith Grant (Editor)

As someone owned by a second-chance dog, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this collection of stories. No matter what type of dog owns you, where you live, or even what your expectations of dog ownership were, there is something for everyone here. I won't even attempt to review the collection of stories as our own experiences touch our reactions to each, but found that it came down to "dogs change our lives." They touch us in ways we could have never imagined, open up our hearts, and, as the cliche goes, leave paw prints on our heart. Dog lovers, read this book. 

Holy Chow (Andy Carpenter #25), by David Rosenfelt

As usual, once I started reading, I couldn't stop until I finished. This is the 25th book in the Andy Carpenter series and I'd say that has pretty much held true for all of them. Now, true, I had to delay starting because, well, I needed to take my own dog for a walk. Andy would understand. I was drawn to the series because of the dog connection but have stayed for the self-deprecating humor, witty dialogue, and well-defined characters. Hey, we even learn a bit more about Marcus who, to be honest, I'm about half convinced is Superman in disguise.

As usual, the plot initially sounds simple. Andy's Tara Foundation adopted out Lion, a senior Chow, to Rachel Morehouse. Rachel calls him out of the blue one day to ask him to be sure Lion is cared for if something happens to her and her stepson can't take Lion. Andy thinks nothing more about it until he's notified Rachel has died and he should show up at the reading of her will. He goes, mostly thinking he's there to pick up the dog. He finds out there that Rachel was extremely rich and left $2M to the Tara Foundation. Then, her stepson, Tony, who actually adores the dog, is arrested for her murder just as the reading of the will is about to start.

That's when it gets complicated. Andy has been trying for years to retire, winds up as Tony's lawyer. Who killed Rachel Morehouse? Why? That's the big question Andy must answer to successfully defend his client. Speaking of his client, why was Tony estranged from the family? How is the family business connected? What does Sam discover while hacking his way through records? Do we really need to know exactly how late a plane lands each flight? What could that have to do with Rachel's murder? Dirty money? Drugs? How many times has Marcus saved Andy's life over the lifespan of this series? I don't know. The question just struck me. How do all these things connect? And, oh, there's more but you're going to have to read the book to find the answers to these and other questions.

Thank you #NetGalley and #SMB, #StMartinsBooks, for inviting me to drop in on Andy, Laurie, and the dogs. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment, well, aside from that really scary moment but, well, Marcus was there. He'd have saved me, too. 

A Bride’s Guide to Marriage and Murder (Countess of Harleigh Mystery #5), by Dianne Freeman

Two feuding families. Both invited to the same wedding. What could go wrong?

Although the wedding goes off without a hitch, before American-born bride Frances Wyn can even throw the bouquet, a dead body is discovered nearby. Even worse, the bride's brother is found with the knife in his hand. The wedding trip to Cannes is off. The groom, George, finds himself defending his new brother-in-law from murder. This is book five of the series, new to me, but worked well as a standalone. I felt like we got to know not just Frances and George well as we watched them navigate through the complications of family -- you've got to love them even when they drive you crazy -- and the social norms and expectations of 1900 London. Will they ever get off to that wedding trip to Cannes?

I thoroughly enjoyed "The Bride's Guide to Marriage and Murder". Told via the view point of Frances, we meet the movers and shakers of the plot, even the less than stellar ones. I also enjoyed that the author, rather than relegate the servants to the shadows, did an excellent job of introducing us to many as real people, not just token bodies to cater to the wealthy. The importance of communication, real communication, is highlighted throughout. It was also fascinating to learn a bit about photography of the era. I had no idea how photos of that era were processed. It was also lovely to see how well the author conveyed the love between Frances and George without going overboard with it. Nice touch. The mystery was intriguing, with lots of red herrings and potential suspects and it was fun to watch Frances and George sift through the clues.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me to the wedding and letting me hang around to watch it being solved. I'm looking forward to following Frances and George's future adventures, well, once they finally get their honeymoon behind them. 

A Hint of Mischief (A Fairy Garden Mystery #3), by Daryl Wood Gerber

Leave your adult skepticism behind and read this with the mind-set of the child who clapped furiously for Tinker Bell's recovery. There are fairies and magic within and that's okay. Courtney Kelly can see and talk to the fairies and is usually accompanied by Fiona the fairy. Fiona is a fledgling fairy, so to speak, still earning her adult wings, but she's smart, attentive, and caring. She also quotes Shakespeare. You know, the sort of fairy we'd all love to know have our back. A fairy may not be able to make things happen but they can calm and suggest, I guess you could say, and that proves helpful as Courtney tries to solve the mystery of actress Farrah Lawson.

The whimsy of Courtney's fairy inhabited world is shattered with Farrah's murder. Who did it? Why? Was it a jealous boyfriend? The husband of one of her friend's that she once had an affair with? And, what's with the fairy doors that keep appearing in the neighborhood. They're darling and imaginative, but who is creating them? It definitely isn't the fairies. Then there are the thefts? Is their any particular significance to the items that are taken? Are they connected to the murder? What is Courtney's former fiance's role? Will Courtney and Brad ever get serious? What's up with Courtney's father? Will Courtney's tendency to be, well, snoopy get her in trouble? Of course, it will. This is a cozy mystery, after all, even if Fiona is hovering about.

Despite the slow, to me, start and that Courtney was able to rely on her fairy's magic too frequently for my liking, I found this a fun, whimsical read. Leave your adult cares behind and open a fairy garden door and see how this tale of fairies, fairy rules and stipulations, human greed and betrayal, and human weaknesses all come into play.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for the invite into the fairy garden and mystery. Now I want to see a fairy garden.

Souvenirs from Kyiv, Chrystyna Lucyk-Berger

Heartbreaking. You're there. You feel their pain. Their fear. Their hunger. The despair. You're reminded that all we really know of war is of our own experience, an experience many have only experienced from the safety and security of their television screen or a book. Most of all, you're reminded that there are no winners in war, then or now. It's easy to feel anxiety as we see the past being reflected in the present. While the foreword is new, the book itself details experiences in the second world war but echoes strongly given current events. A character in each of the six stories within ties them together.

I won't detail the stories as you need to meet them head on, with no expectations or screens to fully appreciate the hunger, despair and, yes, hope. As I type, the invasion of the Ukraine continues. We see the scenes on our tv screens, yes, but somehow even that and the starkly shattering scenes captured in pictures never quite lets us inside the heart, hopes, and dreams of the Ukrainian people. In this book, Ukrainian-American author Chrystyna Lucyk-Berger allows us to feel their hearts as she shares her stories of families past. She weaves these stories into a tale of historical fiction but you know, you just know, the pain was real.

This book was an eye opener. Until recently, I must admit, I had no real knowledge of Ukraine or its people Her foreword, written post invasion, details a brief history of the country, noting that her goal is "to hold up a mirror to our humanity so we can reflect on how we have gotten to where we find ourselves. I write stories to help readers and listeners connect to their ability for empathy. And I write to resolve the truth behind the big picture, to make it clear that conflict is not about two teams meeting on the battlefield -- one called 'good' and one called 'bad', there are no winners in this story."

I recommend this to anyone who cares, anyone who has a thirst to know more than the news feeds dole out to us. It's a stunningly sad yet, ironically, hopeful story. The human need for freedom rings out. Read it. You owe it to yourself.

My genuine, heartfelt thank you to #NetGalley and #Bookouture for making this book available.

In Too Steep (Misty Bay Tearoom #2,) by Kate Kingsbury

Although I found Vivian's desire to do right for a deceased man she feels has been falsely accused of a crime, I also wanted to shake some sense into her a few times. It started innocently enough, seeing a Big Ben souvenir in a photo of the deceased's home and realizing it's one her shop sold. Her goal is simply to find the person who bought it, thinking perhaps they cared about the dead man, a loner who seemed friendless, and gave it to him. She wants to inform them of the death. Vivian is obviously someone who wants to think the best of others, even when she has little evidence to support her conclusions. It escalates from there. At some point she switches gears, from innocently wanting to do the right thing, probably without realizing it, into sleuth mode.

True, her thought processes are good, leading her to the most likely suspects. However, she puts not just herself but her loved ones and friends, not to mention her smart, adorable dog, in danger, too. In the process, the side stories show her growing attachment to Felix, an adorable, smart dog, and Hal. Ironically, she seems to find it easier to open herself up to danger than to loving again. Will Hal win her over? Her dog already adores him. How about her Tearoom workers? Will they be harmed because of Vivian's innate need to try to make things right? Heck, will the detective in charge find his way past his own past loses to not only find the killer but find happiness, too? Will the killer's girlfriend be the death of Vivian?

How does Vivian get out of this mess? Well, you'll have to read the book to find out. It's an easy, entertaining read with just enough romance and intrigue to satisfy most, not to mention a cute dog.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for the ARC. This was a new series for me and I thoroughly enjoyed it. 

As Seen on TV, by Meredith Schorr

If I hadn't already thoroughly enjoyed "As Seen On TV', I'd have gone looking for it after reading the author's opening comment of the acknowledgements: "If you've gotten this far, it means you've read my book. OH, My God." Somehow that made the author all the more a real person to me, which is silly since, as an author myself, I know how real I am. Oh, wait. (pinches self) Yes, authors are real.

Bad attempt at a joke aside, this book was a great deal of fun, a distraction from reality. Adina Gellar does come across as rather naive initially, true, but she is genuinely likeable. Finn definitely sounds like a winner. I mean, apart from managing the project Adina initially wants to turn into a evil scheme, he worked for Habitat for Humanity and wants to build low-income housing? Okay, too good to be true but all true. Their cute meet might not be Hallmark movie worthy but it was easy to envision the action as it played out on the pages, even to revealing Adina's frustration as she slowly comes to grips with the fact Pleasant Hollow doesn't fit the stereotypical Hallmark cliche of a small town. Adina's efforts to somehow make it fit that cliche are actually rather amusing, to be honest, especially since it's obvious Finn is amused by both her stick-to-it persistence but doesn't feel offended.

In true Hallmark fashion, of course, the two come together for that happy-ever-after ending, although how they get there isn't easy and is full of surprises. I doubt that saying this is giving away anything, well, at least if you've ever watched a Hallmark movie. This is a Hallmark movie turned on its head initially, then going Hallmark again, if that makes sense. If you enjoy feel-good romance with more than a bit of humor and people with real strengths and weaknesses, not to mention families and friends they care about and that you will like, you will thoroughly enjoy this book. It was fun, in short.

Thank you #NetGalley and #Forever for letting me spend some time with Adina and Finn. 

Dewey Decimated (The Haunted Library Mysteries, #6), by Allison Brook

Publication September 6, 2022

Small town secrets can be deadly.

Although I found the book quite slow going at first, once the unknown body was found, things picked up big time. I realized at some point that I was fully invested, so it did grab my attention, even if it took awhile to click with me. I've read other books of this series but feel it worked nicely as a stand-alone. Brook introduces us to the main characters and shows rather than tells, a big plus, weaving past events smoothly into the plot. As always, Carrie seemed fully invested in her job despite the noise and confusion of the next door building that is being renovated to become part of the library. We do get quite a few looks into how many libraries operate, by the way, another plus for us book lovers. Now, true, I don't think most libraries have a resident ghost but, well, how would I know. Evelyn the ghost is a delight, in any case, and a definite help to Carrie throughout this book.

The plot centers about the discovery of the body of an unknown man, which may or may not be related to a later murder. Carrie is, for her, rather uninvolved in the investigation, her days being full of library business and her slowly dawning realization that husband-to-be Dylan and she still have things to learn about each other. Such as who he is related to. There are also several side stories, ranging from Angela's search for the "perfect dog" to the dimensions of the proposed auditorium to be build in the added building. It was interesting to see how Carrie, a new member of /the Clover Ridge, Connecticut, cautiously but effectively working her way into the city board and all the decisions it is ultimately responsible in making. She even deals with a pesty, ambitious reporter in the process.

Bottom line, despite the slow to me start, I enjoyed "Dewey Decimated" and recommend it to anyone who likes cozy mysteries with a helping of books, libraries, small town politics and secrets, and how the past often intertwines with the present. And, oh, did I mention ghosts, as in ghosts plural. It all somehow seems to, well, normal, even as those closest to Carrie are slowly coming to gripes with her talent for communicating with ghosts. Settle in and enjoy the read.

Thank you #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for inviting me over to Clover Ridge for a spell. Looking forward to more adventures with Carrie, Dylan, Smokey Joe, the library cat, and all the rest in the future.