A Book of Murder in Notchey Creek (Harley Henrickson #4), by Liz S. Andrews

 Shared pasts. 

Shared memories. 

Shared secrets.

Superb mystery with many layers. The author's writing style flows, almost poetic at one moment, insanely tense at others, all while moving the story steadily forward. Her imagery is superb, capturing moments and sounds that vividly help us visualize the beauty of the setting and mood. I didn't write it down exactly, bad me, but one phrase introducing a tense encounter sorta encapsulated that ability as she describes crickets chiming out the "beleaguered seconds" like a metronome. In other words, I fully loved this book. 

I won't detail the plot, which is easily found elsewhere, but simply say that it's far more complex that the cute cover might indicate. Harley has an amazing ability to remember and quote passages from books. She's well read and once had a scholarship to Harvard. Yet, she's known for her cocktail mixes, hence many underestimate her. Although this worked nicely as a stand-alone, I found myself wanting to know more about not just Harley's past but that of her rock star friend, Beau, who seems to share so many of her memories. She's also got a good friend in Jed, the sheriff, who in contrast to the more stereotypical police-v-amateur sleuth relationship, seem to work together well and trust each other. How refreshing. 

As for the murder, it's complicated. On the surface, it begins simply enough with the death of an unknown woman. Then bodies start piling up. First, who is the unknown woman? Is there some connection between the deaths or is there a random killer at large? Wow, did you realize how much rare books are worth? How is a tatoo connected to the book "Jane Eyre"?  What did Suzanne mean when she called "Jane Eyre" a little golden Easter egg? A maid mumbling literary verse? Why is the press hounding....oh, never mind. Enough teasers. Read the book. I don't think you'll regret it and, hey, Matilda the pig does get a couple scenes.

Thanks #NetGalley and #LittleForestPress for introducing me to the wonderful series. I'll be back! And, oh, those cocktail recipes sound wonderful.

Christmas at the Ranch, by Anita Hughes

 

Publication Sept. 27, 2022

I'm a sucker for Christmas, lovely snowy scenes, books, and horses. That's what lead me to "Christmas at the Ranch" although I wondered if reading it during a warm, Alaskan summer day would dim my Christmas spirit. Nope. In fact, I found it one of the better, uh,  Hallmark moments I've had with Christmas books. Although the dialogue tended to be a bit contrived at times, I like the setting, Samantha and Drew, and her mom through her virtual connections with her. And, oh, yeah, the horses, cared for by Bruno, who seems to be a bit of a jack-of-all-trades at Drew's family ranch in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

Samantha is a mess as the book opens. Although the successful author a book series featuring a feisty, danger loving heroine, Samantha is anything but brave. She's scared of, well, everything. Her imagination weaves even the most common happening, such an elevator or taxi ride or turbulence on a plane, into a probable disaster. The good thing about that particular fear is that it leads her to meeting and opening up to Drew. He keeps her secret, that she isn't some female dare-devil, from his father, who turns out to be her publisher, and the story begins.

I won't detail the plot as much of it depends on the surprise, such as the mystery of Drew's mother. But, because of not just the need to keep up the pretense of being brave but her attraction and trust in Drew, Samantha finds herself doing things way, way out of her comfort level, not to mention showing real bravery when needed. Of course, there are complications in the relationship, traditional Hallmark Christmas movie stuff, but despite her initial fears, she seems able to make friends easily and fit into the setting. Her love of horses was one of the big draws for me, being a horse crazed girl from way back. Toss in mentions of "Black Beauty" and "My Friend Flicka" and, well, it sent me back to memory lane. Both were used in constructive ways, btw, not just toss away mentions. 

Oh, and then there is the diary but, no, not telling. You need to read the book. I found it an easy, enjoyable read that moved right along. As Drew's father, Arthur, mentions at one point, life sometimes gets in the way and you lose touch with what you have, so here you have a delightful romance all tied up in Christmas ribbons with horses and books and  snowy vistas throughout. Enjoy!

Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for inviting me to Jackson Hole, Wyoming, to meet Samantha and Drew. I thoroughly enjoyed it and the chance to pet a few horses.

Cooking with Kids: Fun, Easy, Approachable Recipes to Help Teach Kids How to Cook, by Brianne Grajkowski

 

Publication Oct. 11, 2022

The key word in the title is "with". Adult participation is recommended, even needed, for these recipes, especially since the author touts them for children as young as pre-school. So, don't think you can get away with opening this in front of your children and disappearing. In fact, it's a great way for adults and children to interact and learn together. It'll be messy, yes, but if they learn to cook at an early age, think of the money they'll save down the road. Not to mention how impressed friends will be of their potentially rare cooking skills as time goes along. I imagine there is a bit of a learning curve with some of the terms/vocabulary used, such as garnish and saute, but that can simply be used as another learning tool. Doing helps one learn them.

As for the book itself, it showcases recipes for not just kid favorites but genuine dishes, snacks, desserts, and even fun drinks. I liked that the author noted the need to listen, to really pay attention to your children, knowing if this is a good time to work with them in the kitchen or not, but also notes that if they are stressed or rushed themself, that isn't a good time. She also stresses the need for supervision, noting that knives, mixers, and heat aren't always safe for children to access unsupervised. Wise words. 

The recipes are one page deals, with ingredients and tools needed given upfront. You're urged to pre-read them and have everything needed laid out prior to beginning. Again, wise words. Trying a recipe and suddenly realizing you don't have a needed pan or ingredient isn't conducive to fun. Since I was a bit dubious on a quick flip through at some of the recipe titles, I was pleased to note that the author emphasized that one should adjust the menu based on family tastes. She doesn't make suggestions on how to do that but based on the probably assumption that any adult endeavoring to teach a child to cook knows how, that is probably not a shortcoming. 

Icons are used to indicate timing and level of difficulty as well as whether knives or heat are involved. Again, nice touch. Serving sizes are also indicated. In addition, photos that definitely show children's hands in the process of making the various recipes, as well as the finished product, are used. Again, nice touch, as are the extra hints at the bottom of the pages. Finally, there are blank pages at the end, an ideal spot for you to make personal notes or tweaks.

Thanks #NetGalley and #FoxChapelPublishing for the chance to check out the recipes. Even us "quick and easy" adult types can learn a thing or two here.

Can I Pet Your Dog?, by Jeremy Nguyen

 

Publication Oct. 25, 2022

Fun. Plain ol' fun. 

Being blessed with a dog that people just seem drawn to pet, which is warmly welcomed by my girl, I grinned as the artwork brought back a few memories. True, some of the "ideas" get a bit outlandish near the end but, well, it's not meant to be taken literally, just to express the joy of interaction with dogs. I particularly liked not just the different types of dogs pictured but that at one point we see a dog with wheels, not to mention a human in a wheelchair. Good inclusion. A good way to initiate a discussion of not just the various dog breeds with a child but why and how to include those with disabilities, not to mention the importance of asking permission before approaching someone else's dog.

The artwork is cute and nicely celebrates the love of dogs. Hey, if a tough looking goth guy can get down on his knees to give my dog a tummy rub, maybe some of these tongue-in-cheek suggestions aren't so outlandish after all. This will make a great gift for all your dog loving friends. 

Thanks to #NetGalley and #ChronicleBooks for letting me pet the dogs. Now I need to go try to make up with my own pet-me-magnet dog for being distracted by some other virtual dogs.

Live and Let Grind (A Coffee Lover's Mystery #3) ,by Tara Lush

 

Publication Oct. 11, 2022   Crooked Lane Books

Murder by leaf blower?

Yes! I love it when I find a new-to-me series that sucks me in and refuses to let me leave. That compulsion to finish once I started made me appreciate Lana's seeming inability to let go of a case. To quickly summarize, Lana's friend Erica's temper gets the best of her and she gets into it with a neighbor who has the annoying habit of running his loud leaf blower way too early, too often, and too long. Then, the neighbor is murdered. Former reporter Lana feels the need to investigate when Erica becomes a suspect. Then one of the customer's in the coffee shop belonging to Lana's family is poisoned. Are the two cases related? 

 How is it that Lana isn't aware that her own neighbors are doing a true crime podcast? Could the killer be the victim's wife, Honey? Why is Lana's father arrested while dressed up as a monkey? Will Lana ever meet boyfriend Noah's mother? Is Stanley the Shih Tzu spoiled rotten? What's the story on Lana's school friend who disappeared years ago? What's the wildest mailbox design you've ever seen? Who.... oh, never mind. Enough questions to tantalize you to read.

"Live and Let Grind" is a fun, quick read. My thanks to #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for letting me virtually travel back to my ol' state of Florida to meet Lana and friends. I'm looking forward to many future visits. I'm not even much of a coffee drinker but would love to try an Orange Blossom Special.

Dead Men Don’t Decorate (Old Town Antiques Mystery #1), by Cordy Abbott

 

Publication Nov. 8, 2022

Camille Benson seems to be floundering a bit as the story opens, wondering what's next for her. Her son has just been elected mayor of their historic town and after the excitement of the campaign, heading back to her safe, no-longer challenging teaching job isn't appealing. Suddenly presented with the possibility of buying back her parent's former antique shop, she hesitates, however. Then, in almost the blink of an eye, she's buying the shop and preparing to open it on her own. Who knew things would get complicated when she and her friend Opal discover the body of the much disliked previous owner in the shop when they go to investigate an old letter Opal reports finding? And, where is that perhaps valuable letter, reportedly written from George Washington to Sally Fairfax in 1756? 

To be honest, I initially had trouble connecting to both Camille and Opal. Opal comes across as unrestrained, apt to blurt out things at the worst possible time. Camille, on the other hand, while coming across initially as low key and even lacking in self-confidence, suddenly starts aggressively peppering the police chief with investigative type questions. Yet, when back in the store and it is confirmed that it was murder, her first action is to turn away from the chief and look for the chair where Opal reported the Washington letter being hidden, even physically turning the somewhat heavy chair upside-down for a better look. No segue to this this action. She just does it.

Yet, as the story goes on, I did find myself warming up to Camille. I mean, she loves her dogs. She's raised a son capable of governing a town. She's smart and savvy about history and art. She's also impulsive, a tendency that always seems to get amateur sleuths in trouble. Her quick thinking, however, could save a life. She doesn't panic easily, which is good when she puts herself in a dangerous situation. Like Opal, she's honest, even if her honesty is sometimes harsh. In other words, she's human, full of contradictions. She turns out to be a darn good sleuth, too. 3.5 rounded to 4 stars.

Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for the invite to Alex--- er, Marthasville. Camille has intrigued me enough that I'll be back.

Death and the Conjuror (Joseph Spector #1), by Tom Mead, narrated by Jake Ruddle AUDIOBOOK

 

 Audiobook, Unabridged       6 Hours, 40 Minutes   

 Delightful! I had absolutely no clue who did it but definitely enjoyed the ride.

Anyone who has ever read and enjoyed the classic mysteries of the past will love this one. I lost track of all the nods to the classic mysteries as I was driving while listening to much of this. They included not just Agatha Christie and her "Murder of Roger Ackroyd", but Poe, Macbeth, and John Dickson Carr's lecture on locked room mysteries in "The Hollow Man". The language flows eloquently, with a vocabulary that borders on melodic at times, and Mead does an excellent job conjuring up the atmosphere. I could almost taste the damp, foggy night as that mysterious dark, cloaked figure lingered ominously in the shadows. 

I'm a sucker for a British accent so it's probably a no-brainer that I thoroughly enjoyed the narrator. While no attempt was made to generate a particularly female sounding voice for the female characters, Rudder did an excellent job differentiating by changes of tone, inflection, and speed, so to speak. Chapter changes, as well as titles, were announced. Hint: Pay attention. His skill was such that I could feel the tenseness in scenes and even sense the ominousness of that mysterious, dark cloaked figure lingering in the rain and darkness. 

I won't detail the plot, which can be found elsewhere, as I don't want to give away even the smallest clue. Let's just say, the clues are all there, as the interlude near the big reveal notes, even if I didn't figure it all out. I am looking forward to illusionist/magician Joseph Spector's next adventure along with Inspector Flint. The emphasis on the psychological aspects of this particular case only added to the mystery of "Dang, how did Spector do that trick?" 

Much thanks to #NetGalley and #HighBridgeAudio for inviting me along for this delightfully intriguing trip back to the days of classic mysteries. It was a puzzling but fun read.

Deceptive Designs (Cozy Corgi Mysteries Book 25), by Mildred Abbott

 

I've never made it a secret that I love this series. That said, I've grown tired of the Irons crime family connection popping up and had hoped that was behind us. Nope, they're back. Hopefully Abbott will allow them to fade away again so the focus remains on (Wini)Fred,and Watson, not to mention all the other interesting characters that have shown up over the series.

Don't get me wrong. There's absolutely nothing wrong with this book other than my own tendency to roll my eyes when the Irons topic pops up again. That also tends to mean, btw, a return appearance from.....oh, never mind. Long time readers know and we'll leave it a surprise for new readers. 

One hint, however, don't do the same thing I did, read the first three chapters, go, whoa, and put the book aside for awhile. Seriously, read at least four chapters so you don't spend time wondering what Abbott was thinking. As it turns out, phew, I was wrong and Abbott only did what any good author does, got my attention. 

It goes without saying, but there are plenty of scenes involving the ever growing dog population amidst our main characters. Phineas makes me smile jut thinking of the puppy energy and antics while, well, Watson makes me smile at his grumpy acceptance of pup antics and living for a t-r-e-a-t. Why am I typing it that way? Because that's one word you don't say unless you want to see one of Watson's moods. <insert grin>

So, all in all, despite my fatigue with the Irons thread, "Deceptive Designs" was a solid, enjoyable read. The title will make sense as you read and all our favorites are there, from Leo and Katie to the extended family and friends (and their dogs). The book will take you from Fred's sense that all was right in her world, not to mention that Katie's wedding is being planned, to a sudden darkening of mood. There are also signs that some of the characters are growing and evolving, always a plus in a long running series. 

If you enjoy dogs, family and friends who are family, not to mention a good mystery, give this one a read. Bet it'll leave you wanting to pet a puppy, well, right after you congratulate Fred for solving another crime.

A Dark and Snowy Night (Seaside Knitters Society Mystery #16), by Sally Goldenbaum

 

Publication Sept. 27, 2022

This one is as much about family and friends and the ties that bind them together, as solving a murder. Although it took me awhile to get into the story, that was what kept me reading. I found myself liking the characters, even when I had to keep flipping back to confirm who they were and how they were connected. I'm honestly not sure if that is because I am new to this series, quite frankly the author did an excellent job filling in the background, but the changing points of view confused me somewhat initially. After getting to know them, however, the final reveal was both satisfying and sad. 

Although, as noted, this was my first visit to the Seaside Knitters Society, the memories and ties that bound the friends together are strong. They genuinely care about each other and their extended families. They are delighted to reconnect with Oliver/Ollie and his celebrity chef wife, Lidia. Thus, even though they barely knew her, Lidia's murder is upsetting and unbalances their world. Toss in a peeping Tom next door to Cass' home and the sudden disappearance of her Mary Poppins like nanny, Molly, along with her beloved senior rescue dog, and Cass is even more off-balance. Then, just as suddenly, Old Dog is back and Molly reappears the morning after the murder. 

Is there some connection there? Molly's friend Shannon, who worked the party that Lidia was there to prepare the food for, had nothing good to say about one of the kitchen workers. Why has Oliver been so vague when it comes to sharing not just Lidia's background but what she was really like? Secrets? Could Lidia's plan to buy a popular restaurant and then tear it down to replace it with her own design be connected? How does this all connect to Lidia's murder, or does it? Will the murder be solved in time for everyone to enjoy Christmas? Who....oh, never mind. No more teases. Read the book. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for inviting me over to check out the Seaside Knitters Society. Even if it took me awhile to warm up to them, I liked them and will be back.

Profiles in Ignorance: How America's Politicians Got Dumb and Dumber, by Andy Borowitz

 

Publication Sept. 13, 2022

Andy Borowitz knows his audience and subject. Despite the fact I read his frequent posts on social media avidly, I was a bit wary of this book, fearing it might be one long, comedic take on current politics. I couldn't have been more wrong. That doesn't mean there isn't humor. Just when you think Borowitz has gone serious on you, he's likely to slip in an often subtle zinger. Nor is the criticism bashing. It's largely simply a recitation of facts/events as they happened.

And, let's face it. Given some of the events of the past political season.....wait, does that season ever end anymore?.... just a mere recitation of the events and mangling of of the English language is either humorous to you or just makes you shake your head in disbelief. I fell somewhere in-between. My only complaint is that, unlike social media, Borowitz and the publisher can't update this book every day as historic events occur almost daily. Oh, well, can't have everything. 

I liked the simple ordering, ie the three stages of ignorance. First stage, ridicule. Second, acceptance. Third, celebration (of ignorance). Borowitz does an admirable job detailing events, both distant past and recent although, as noted, the final curtain on this story hasn't come down. Since I was largely only familiar with Borowitz' zippy humor, his quick quips or short takes on events, I was impressed at the depth of this "call to action", all done with a quick twist of humor and viewpoint. Borowitz seems to recognize that not only are we humans frequently our own worst enemies but our means of salvation. Ignorance isn't a virtue seems to be the unifying theme of it all. 

I highly recommend this book and hope there will be an updated version available when current events (the Jan. 6 hearings and aftermath) are history. Thanks to #NetGalley and #AvidReaderPress - #SimonAndSchuster for making this work available. It should be a "must have" for anyone who cares about not just our country/government but history. 

Round Up the Usual Peacocks, by Donna Andrews

 

Publishes Aug. 2, 2022

This series never disappoints.

Despite the chaos about her, Donna Andrews' Meg Langslow always seems to maintain her almost zen-like calm while dealing with the bad guys. In this, the 31st book of the series, she actually solves three cold cases. Her nephew Kevin and Casey, a friend, were doing a true crime podcast, a very modern touch to the plot, and had managed to rile up someone enough to make them attempt to run down Casey. Spooked and more at home in front of a computer than dealing with people, Kevin asks Meg to help investigate. Since helping Kevin sounds like a great excuse to avoid some of the wedding planning chaos going on, Meg readily agrees.

I won't detail the plot, it's readily available elsewhere, but will say that the wedding hoopla takes a backseat to the investigation although, quite frankly, is the source of some absolutely hilarious scenes involving Meg. Who knew herding dogs could herd peacocks? Or that peacocks make great watchdogs, er, watch...birds? Well, when they're not attacking you. Have you ever heard a peacock shriek? It isn't a pleasant sound, so just the image conjured up of their possible participation in the wedding program is amusing. Beautifully feathered, yes. Peaceful and serene, no.

So, first, what is the Clay County involvement in the cases? Why the heck are they stalking Meg's movements? Second, in this day and age, why would any college department resist converting its records to digital files? Could the answer to the death of a professor be hidden there? Third, what happened to the talented singer/college girl who simply seems to have disappeared? Did her stalker kill her? If not, could she still be around to be found? And, will Meg really wind up creating a gargoyle collection, so to speak, for Ragnor? Sounds like they're fit right in.

These questions are only the tip of the iceberg as Meg organizes and does errands for the upcoming wedding, listens to the previous podcasts, talks to Chief Burke, keeps her guests safe, wrangles peacocks, avoids Spike's bad tempered bites, and dodges bad guys. This is a can't-put-it-down read, full of both tense and hilarious moments with lots of critters. My friends who have herding dogs will love it, I'm sure. Lad, you're my furry hero in this one.

Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress for my "wedding invite". It was fun to see Meg come full circle from the beginning as she dealt with a wedding, quirky relatives one can't help but love, and helps put the bad guys away.

And Then There's Margaret, by Carolyn Clarke

 

If you're anything like me, your first reaction to "meeting" Allison/Allie Montgomery was, "Whoa!" as you took a virtual step backward. As mother-in-laws go, Margaret could model for the MIL from, well, you know where, but Allie isn't perfect, either. She's stressed, feeling the pressure of aging and seems to be worried about, well, almost everything. Her anxiety is off the top of the meter much of the time and she tends to react to others negatively, no matter how minute the interaction. Her immediate reaction to the gym greeter she dubs "Gwyneth" is telling. 

She's anxious about her job, husband, children, and, well, even if she's doing right by her dog. Then, things get worse. Her father-in-law, who seems to have been her rock in rocky times, dies. Mother-in-law Margaret will be moving in with the family for a time. Margaret, who always seems to find fault and has never seemed to like her. Both Allie's anxiety levels and some hilarity result. Despite the tensions within the home, Allie perseveres, even if it means pulling the covers over her head and pretending to be ill or hiding in the closet to avoid an encounter with Margaret. And, jealousy? Yep, Allison is human, with all the quirks, failings, hopes, and fears we all harbor, all magnified by the situation as Margaret rearranges furniture, snipes at Allie's clothing and habits, interferes with her daughter, and creates scene after scene. 

Despite the negatives, which made it difficult for my more laid-back personality to feel really connected to Allie, I did wind up finding her a sympathetic character. I think, at least if I didn't have to be in her proximity for any long period of time, we might even be friends. Otherwise, her anxiety levels would wear me out. As for Margaret, just when you begin to think there is no hope for this relationship, something changes. Allie begins to see Margaret for what she is, pros and cons, and better understands the why of the treatment she's endured for so long. Allie even finds new purpose in life. 

Nope, not telling how this miracle happens. It's a slow process with both Margaret's overbearing personality and Allie's more needy, visibly anxious and stressed one evolving as the book goes along. Remember, first appearances aren't always the right ones. While this book may not be for everyone, particularly anyone triggered by other's anxieties, it was an interesting twist on the MIL/DIL relationship. Kudos to first time novelist Carolyn Clarke for bringing these complex, evolving personalities to life. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #BlackRoseWriting for giving me this peek into Allison/Allie's life.

The Tuesday Night Survivors' Club (Audiobook), by Lynn Cahoon

 

Audiobook Review (plus original ebook review at end)

Narrator C.S.E. Cooney Tantor Audio, 7 hour duration

I thoroughly enjoyed the e-book version of this book and was delighted to see an audio version available. The story's focus on a group of soon-to-be friends who are brought together by them having survived cancer could be a downer but the book was more a story of friendship, new beginnings, and inner strength than cancer. Kudos to author Lynn Cahoon for handling this potentially tricky subject matter (Cahoon is a survivor, too) and making it work. And, all this circles about a murder that the book club members are determined to look into, even after being cautioned not to do so by the town detective, Drew. It's an intriguing mystery, highlighted by the growing friendship of the group. See the original review below my thoughts on the audio version for more insight.

As for the audio version, although I was having trouble keeping which voice was which straight initially, I realized at some point that I'd nailed it and just automatically knew who was speaking when the narrator spoke as the book progressed. This was done through both subtle changes of pace, emphasis, accent and inflection as well forcefulness, if that makes sense. In other words, you quickly could pinpoint the more confident, forceful personalities of the group. As for Rarity, the main character, the narrator's voice seemed perfect, showcasing her kindness and concern for all. The voice made me feel that Rarity was someone I'd like and trust.

One of the things that came through to me much more forcefully in this audio version was how much Rarity adored the dog she unexpected found herself with. Hearing it, I realized how often the dog was the topic of conversation or interest, not to mention that Rarity talked to it frequently, just as most of us owned by dogs do. In addition, besides these frequent mentions the author also gets in subtle bits of info on dog care and all involved with owning a dog, including the importance of vet care, the need to tag and identify your pets, and the need for proper nourishment and such items as dog beds, toys, leashes, and, well, the list can be endless as any dog owner knows. I honestly didn't really notice this via simply reading. The chapter changes were simply a stated "Chapter__" whatever with no disruption to the flow.

Bottom line, a fine addition to the editions available. Thanks to #NetGalley and #TantorAudio as well as publisher #KensingtonBooks for making this audio version available. I should note that my own little dog listened as I did and says Killer deserves extra treats.

ORIGINAL REVIEW OF eBOOK:
I've become a huge fan of Lynn Cahoon. This book only made me more of a fan. Skillfully centered about a cancer survivor book group, Cahoon deftly weaves in introductions to new characters and new mysteries without either making cancer the central theme or ignoring it. As someone who was a bit wary of reading this book given my own family's losses from the disease, I have to admit to almost passing it up. I'm glad I didn't. Yes, cancer survival isn't hidden in some dark corner in the book but it is more the thing that brought this intriguing cast on new characters together. With nods to the worries and concerns that all survivors have, Cahoon, who has survived her own cancer journey, doesn't try to pretend the disease doesn't exist. Instead, she uses it to pull people together, form and strengthen friendships, and, oh, yes, solve the murder of a group member. I had no real clue who the murderer was until the reveal, so it definitely will keep you guessing.

The characters were likeable and it was interesting to see the dynamics of friendship and, hmm, maybe romantic relationships developing. I was actually sorta meh on Archer until the end, maybe because it didn't seem like we got to know him as well as we did Drew the detective, but he won me over when he showed up with flowers after Rarity's regular cancer checkup. This was in sharp contrast to her last boyfriend who pretty much ignored than left her while she was ill. Her best friend Sam, who it took me a moment initially to figure out was probably a Samantha, not male, has always had her back and despite a brief flair of jealousy on Sam's part, still had Rarity's back. We all need friends like that who will tamper down their own emotions to support us. Drew, of course, seemed like a winner from the time he told Rarity about the now owner-less dog, Killer. Dog lover that I am, I had to admire Rarity for agreeing to take in Killer even when she was most likely envisioning a large, scary dog. It didn't take Killer long to worm his way into her heart, however.

I liked the characters and how well the medical issues surrounding potentially fatal illness was worked smoothly into the story. This included doctors who may or may not be real doctors pushing miracle cures, treatments, and pushing their products on the most vulnerable. Grr, but enough said on that topic, The key theme here isn't medical. It's friendship. It's good to have friends and Rarity is slowly but surely finding friends and making her own place in Sedona, New Mexico. I'm looking forward to following this series.

Thank you #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #LyricalPress for introducing me to Rarity and the rest of her growing circle of friends, not to mention Killer. Treats for Killer!

An Advent Carols Countdown, by Michael D. Young

 

Publication Sept. 6   Shadow Mountain Publishing

Savor this one. I deliberately only allowed myself to read one carol's story per day so as to create the spirit of the title. It not only allowed me to fully take in the background and history shared but time to think about what I'd learned, too, in the midst of my everyday life. It was a complete delight.

Although some of the songs were unfamiliar to me, it didn't matter. Not only are the lyrics and background provided but there was a link to a performance of each song provided in the digital copy I read. (It's my understanding there will be a QR code available to access this in print versions.) In the process, I learned a great deal such as that "Angels We Have Heard On High" is considered a "macaronic" hymn in that the lyrics alternate between Latin and another language, and that "Carol of the Bells" origins are Ukrainian. Beginning life as a folk song basically celebrating winter, it was first performed at Kiev University in 1916 and seems to have made its first American appearance at Carnegie Hall in 1921. "Silent Night" was one of the songs performed by the Von Trapp Family of "Sound of Music" fame when they performed across Europe. 

And, oh, so much more. These little details, connecting time periods and people of the times pop up throughout. There's sure to be something for everyone. Even the carols that weren't familiar to me had intriguing back stories, so I thoroughly enjoyed my read and listening to the songs via the links provided. For the more scholarly among us, there is an extensive bibliography provided at the end. Enjoy! I know I did.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #ShadowMountainPublishing for allowing me to tune into this celebration of Christmas. The ties to history and events were fascinating and, of course, what is Christmas without Christmas carols?

Black Gun, Silver Star: The Life and Legend of Frontier Marshal Bass Reeves, by Art T. Burton

 Publication Sept. 1, 2022

This was a tough one to rate. While I found the topic intriguing, particularly since I recall hearing periodically of Bass Reeves' possible connection to the Lone Ranger, a favorite show of my horse loving childhood, it wasn't an easy read. The author is obviously a researcher and scholar and, as such, he provides us with a wealth of documentation and information as any research project should do. Unfortunately, research papers, which I believe this is/was, don't necessarily make for good reading. I'd find myself fascinated at one point, then not many pages afterward, I'd feel my eyes glazing over. Don't get me wrong, this isn't to slam the book. It's simply that it's far more research paper than the average, mildly interested reader can digest with the wealth of often contradictory information and detail. Thus, for the average reader, this one might be a 3 star at best. For those of a more research oriented mind, it might easily rate a 4+ rating. I've opted to rate for the average reader, however, so take all this into consideration when deciding whether to read or not. 

As for the content, as noted, there is an abundance or documentation and information, all fact based and checked. Personal memories were probed and the stories of the real Bass Reeves were fascinating. Were they all true? Who knows? Sadly, for the simple fact that he was a black man, records on his history and exploits were scarce. Author Burton has done an admirable job pulling it all together in this well researched volume. 

Whether Reeves was the inspiration for the Lone Ranger or not, his story is one that deserves to be told. Born into slavery, he escaped and became one of the West's best lawmen ever. Those who knew him personally claimed he outshone the likes of the legendary Wyatt Earp. He was conscientious. He even arrested his own son at one point. An excellent horseman, he was also said to be a dog-lover, a real plus to me. Some say he rode a white horse, or maybe gray, which, of course, calls to mind the TV Lone Ranger's Silver. Reeves was known to distribute silver dollars, however, not silver bullets. Hmm, another tie. I understand there are ongoing talks about a movie featuring Reeves, so will be intrigued to see if that happens and how the research within this book is utilized. The story of a respected and authoritarian black man in a decidedly white world is definitely one that deserves to be heard.

Thanks to #NetGalley and the #UniversityOfNebraskaPress - #BisonBooks for giving me the chance to delve into a childhood legend in depth.

A Brush with Murder: A Watercolor Mystery. by Gail Langer Karwoski

 

I felt rather like I was losing my new best friends as the book ended. I wanted to get in the car and go home with Jane and her friends. I miss them already, even the rowdy, energetic mischief maker dog Tillie. In other words, author Karwoski was successful in world building with, oh, so likable, relatable characters we'd all like to know even if, as one observed, this vacation week was a bit like living in a crime novel. The setting, the Gardens and Horses Resort, sounded enchanting and even though it's been years since I picked up a paint brush, I found myself jotting down some of the watercolor hints shared within. 

Unfortunately, the friends' retreat begins with them stumbling cross a horse dead in a reflecting pool. To be honest, as a horse nut from way back, I almost passed up this book when this was mentioned in the blurb but am glad I didn't. Although saddening, with much more of the dark side of horse racing revealed as the book progressed, this scene was quickly lost in the rest of the action. A groom is found nearly drowned in a horse water trough, then one of the workshop attendees is found dead. Are the three scenes connected? Jane, who prides herself a bit on her orderliness, had already started a journal to help her sort out who was who among the workshop participants and slips into the mode of registering everything she observes or senses, too, sharing her notes with the police. I admired her ability to keep her head when the others were otherwise distracted, whether by flirtations or Donna's disturbing habit of fainting when stressed. There are multiple suspects, side stories, and red herrings, not to mention that the three events may or may not be related. In the process, however, the friends attend the painting sessions and it was fascinating to hear their virtual work being dissected with hints of how to create certain watercolor techniques or improve on others. They're being taught to see, really see, what is in front of them. If you're an artist, you'll find these sections fascinating, I'm sure. 

As the friends observe, however, it's much easier to solve a mystery in a book than it is in real life. All have input and helpful observations, observations Jane carefully records and shares. Jane's growing fascination with solving the mystery, even to the point where she jots down the ABC's of detectives, ie assume nothing, believe no one, and check everything, seems to grow. Her friendship with Officer Goode was interesting and although they live in different areas, I'm hoping he'll pop up again in future books. It's always nice to see the police and amateur sleuth acting with mutual respect rather than the more usual conflict that so often pops up in mysteries. 

Bottom line, if you haven't already guessed, I loved this book and was delighted to see a preview for the next in the series at the end. Phew, that relieves my fear this might be a one shot mystery from the author. I also appreciated the suggestions for Book Club discussions included. I think my favorite asked how their painting styles reflected personalities, which made me rethink the book a bit more. Lovely writing, lyrical at times, awash in painting references, and an intricate mystery all packaged with lovely watercolor paintings now awash in my mind's eye.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #BlackRoseWriting for inviting me to attend this lovely workshop with Jane, Donna, Grace, Pam, and Tillie. I'm looking forward to the next adventure. This one is a winner.

A Christmas Candy Killing (Killer Chocolate #1), by Christina Romeril

 

Publication October 11, 2022

This is a promising start to a new series. True, for me it was slow going at first but as I got deeper and deeper into the story and began to get the characters sorted in my mind, I found it intriguing. Twin sisters Alex and Hanna own Murder and Mayhem, a combo bookstore and chocolate shop that specializes in Killer Chocolates, candies named after various poisons. In this, the first of a new series, a mystery debut for the author, some time was spent introducing us to the various characters, and characters some are, and their relationships with each other and others. There are even hints of romance, or maybe even romances, but the focus is on Alex's efforts to find out who killed her friend Jane, a true crime fan. Alex has the misfortune to be the one to find not just Jane's body but that of a mutual friend, Netty, so she feels personally involved and somewhat of a suspect. Despite her awkward questioning, which clearly lets the entire town know she's snooping, er, indulging in gossip, as she tries to frame it, and dangerously impulsive actions, Alex (and the circle about her) come off as likable. I'm going to be interested to see how their stories evolve as the series continues.

So, who killed senior-citizen Jane, who had the annoying habit of accusing others of being serial murders she'd spotted in the television series she religiously seems to tape. She's sure she is right this time, however, and plans to tell Alex what she's learned the next day. The next day is when Alex discovers her bloody body. Did the handyman do it? He was seen on the scene and knew where the key was not-so-well hidden. How about the snoopy neighbor, well, several snoopy neighbors? What secrets are hiding behind their closed doors? What family issues are worrying Alex at the same time she is so focused on the murder? Why is ... oh, never mind. I'm not telling. You're just going to have to read the book. As with many new series, yes, it started slowly, but was an easy, enjoyable read with likable characters and lots of potential. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for inviting me to check out Murder and Mayhem. How did you know I'm a chocoholic? Those recipes sound yummy.