Moving and Grooving to Fillmore’s Beat, by Rachel Warner

 

Publication August 1, 2023

I've got to admit, I elected to review this book out of curiosity to see how they'd handle explaining the Fillmore district to the target age given, 5-8.  Given its raucous history, I felt that might be a chore. What author Warner has done, however, is focus more on the aura and meaning of the music, art, and words set free there than the history of the Fillmore district itself. I'm still fuzzy on whether most children in the target age range will have even heard of Fillmore, let along be curious about it or, for that matter, the artists mentioned. That's not to say the book is bad, just a bit bewildering to this adult mind. 

That said, I can fully see this one finding a home with music oriented parents or teachers, maybe even music departments in higher level facilities. It gives a strong sense of inclusion and diversity, all with a bit of the magic of music detailed. Using a basic pallet of color, the illustrations by Jerrard K. Polk are nicely done and give a sense of the Fillmore area through several decades. The people shown are of different races, all seen interacting and enjoying the aura of the Fillmore together. I loved the touch of the music notes drifting in a starry sky and the changes in dress and even car designs as we move from decade to decade. You get a feel for the area in the slanted streets and trolley cars, too. Harmony and understanding, ie acceptance, to steal from a song lyric, dominate as people are shown coming together and enjoying the scene from their windows or a park. In other words, the image of peace and love all set to music. 

I enjoyed the book, especially since it handled the aura of the district rather than the sometimes harsh reality that invaded it at times. No sex, drugs, and barely a mention of rock'n'roll here. Oddly enough, I learned more about the history of the actual Fillmore district in the brief bit at the end, noting the district became popular after being one of the few to survive the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. It became a bit of an oasis for many, calling some to dub it the Harlem of the West. 

Bottom line, while unsure about the target audience, it was a nicely done bit of history with a message of harmony. 32 pages, target audience 5-8. 

Birder, She Wrote (Meg Langslow #33), byDonna Andrews

 

Publication August 1, 2023

I absolutely love this series. It's one of the ones that I'll put down whatever else I'm reading to read. There's so much packed into this installment that I won't even attempt to share the plot. Andrews is a master at weaving multiple plots lines together around multiple (and there are more than a few) characters, all with their own personalities and quirks. As usual, it's not just Meg who holds the Langslow Family together but at times seemingly the entire community, all of with admirable people skills, humor, patience, and intelligence. I've admired her and wished I had her for a friend for years now, so she and the entire family and community feel like ol' friends. That said, while I can certainly imagine the multitude of characters in and out of the story, most regulars, might initially confuse new readers, the book works nicely as a standalone. Wow, #33 and still going strong.

So, since I'm not delving into the plot, what can you expect to find in this book? First, of course, there's a murder victim. Meg doesn't find him but, well, she's on hand doing a good deed when the victim, a cranky NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) from the upscale neighborhood of the community is found. And, hey, did you know Poms make good cadaver dogs? You'll also get a wealth of info on raising and catering to another sort of resident, bees. I knew next to nothing despite some friends actually raising them, so this was interesting. Andrews either has experience with bees and/or did some meticulous research, that's for sure. And, oh, have you heard of bully hummingbirds? Apparently there is such a thing and you'll discover how to remedy that situation. 

Let's see, there's also the search for a lost African-American graveyard that dates perhaps to the Civil War. Never mind it sounds like it's mostly in a muddy bog. Land was precious back then and needed more for the living, after all. The modern world intrudes with mentions of drugs and extortion. Finally, there's the little matter of grandmother Cordelia tolerating an unlikable reporter for a story that sounds poised to present her as a snooty, pretentious socialite rather than the tough, outdoorsy type who harbors no fools. Somehow, Donna Andrews ties it all together smoothly, hopefully in time for Meg to squeeze in that relaxing session in the hammock she missed in chapter one. 

Bottom line, if you love character driven mysteries with multi-layer plot lines, you will love this one, Then, most likely, if you're new to the series, you'll quickly be on the lookout for the previous books to discover how Meg's life evolved to where we find her in this book. I've never been disappointed and frequently find myself chuckling as I envision some of the scenes playing out in front of me. My thanks to #NetGalley and #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for inviting me back to Caerphilly again to spend some quality time with Meg and the whole gang. Love the cover!

All That Glitters Isn't Old, by Gabby Allan

 Publication July 26, 2023

Octopus? I've heard of swimming with the dolphins but with....octopuses? Octopi? Actually, both are correct. I looked it up. Her boyfriend Felix sure takes her on some interesting outings.

As for the mystery. You've heard of wedding crashing. How about funeral crashing? It begins with a car careening through mourners at a funeral to literally crash into the casket and knock it off it's pedestal. Yikes. Whit didn't even want to be there, not really knowing the deceased, but what a rude introduction to her grandmother Goldy's former friend Darren. The driver, Elsie, seems to be there because she didn't want to waste a second reclaiming her old crush, Darren, never mind he's actually gay and there with his boyfriend Jericho, who later plummets to his death from the catwalk in the theater. She's acting unhinged, so could she be the killer?

That's just the beginning but here are some teasers. What don't we know about Darren's past? Turns out, lots. Bottom line, past secrets meet present. Why is Goldy so insistent Whitney investigate but isn't sharing the full back story? Will this derail Goldy and Pops/Thomas's long marriage? What will Whit name the octopus? Does Whiskers the cat more or less run Whitney's life? Cat owners, you know the answer to that one. And, oh, is Whitney going to lose her roommate to a better job when Maribel passes that last test to be a police officer? And, hmm, why is Whit carrying that postcard around? This one has multiple layers, for sure.

Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for letting me tag along on this bit of a roller coaster ride. Gabby Allan was a new author to me but I'll definitely be back to see what Whit has has decided to do next about her own questions with the able assistance of boyfriend Felix.

Notes to Share, from Rebel Girls

 Available July 28, 2023

I honestly wasn't quite sure what the expect in this book, maybe because I'm long-winded and, well, for me notes are long. I'm glad I didn't pass it by, however, as it reminded me, one, no, all notes don't have to be long, and, two, the power of words. While Rebel Girls focuses on girls as a target audience, I decided as I went along that, quite frankly, this book could be a wonderful tool for all ages, whether parent-child, friends, teachers, or people you'd like to give a boost. male or female. True, the offerings are female centered but the words have a wide application. 

It's no secret that I've become a huge Rebel Girls fan. Here you have a note for every day of the year, including a birthday. They range from quick bits of info, like the bicycle racer who received a pig as a prize, to silly jokes that often rely on word-play, to suggestions for personalized notes, such as "When you get home, let's___!" or "If your day was a movie, what would the title be?" I'm still pondering that one. 

One of the things I liked best was that the notes didn't focus on today's popular figures alone. Sure, they're there, but so are figures like Cleopatra, Josephine Baker, Amelia Earhart, and Beatrix Potter. Did you know she kept a diary written in code? Do you know who Mary Westmacott is? How about Agatha Christie? One and the same. And...oh, so many fascinating quotes and bits of wisdom mixed with jokes, ideas for notes, even a place to make your own doodle of the day, all affirmative and interesting and many offering a laugh.  

As noted above, it should appeal to many, not just parents. It's fully illustrated, with each note taking just a singled page. Rebel Girls labeled it a "novelty book" and it is certainly that. Once again, Rebel Girls has a winner.Thanks to #RebelGirls and #NetGalley for allowing me a sneak peek that, gasp, made me think. I mean, what would the movie title for your day be called?

Driven to Death (Finch & Fischer Mysteries #5), by J. New

 

It's always interesting to meet a new series and characters. I loved the intro description of the sights and sounds our main character, Penny, who is walking her feisty Jack Russel, Fischer, experiences as they walk. I felt at one time like I should be able to put down my hand to my own dog and feel the damp warmness on her from the sun described, not to mention hear the snuffles from Fischer as he darts about from one delicious scent to the next. I walked my own dog this morning and smiled at some of the similar behavior. Dogs will be dogs. Unlike my dog, thank goodness, Fischer also has the disturbing trait of finding bodies, in this case business man Robert Reynolds.

Who killed him? Given that the death occurred during a large crowd at the shoot site, a sorta combo protest against the blood sport of grouse hunting and a gaggle of besotted pop rock fans trailing their idol Max Damage (yes, that's his stage name) who couldn't care less that he's there to take part in the hunt and there are plenty of suspects and twists and turns before Penny figures it all out...or does she? Why does Max keep running into things? What helpful bits of info will Penny pick up chatting with her usual mobile library customers? What a great job, btw. Why would someone kill Robert anyway? How many shots were there in the chaos of the red smoke bomb confuses everyone, well, except for Fischer. Does it even matter? If not, how to explain more dead grouse than shots heard? And, oh, lots more questions, twists, and turns.

I won't detail the plot any further as others will. Instead, I'll simply say that after a slow start for me, it gradually pulled me in. Not unusual when one jumps blindly into a series on the fifth book, so much of that is on me. I do wish there had been a bit more insight into her prior cases aside from learning that's where she first encountered now beau Detective Inspector John Monroe and ran into trouble investigating in the past. She's also vegetarian and though her love of animals is obvious, I'd have liked to have learned more about how that came about. I was glad to see she realized Fischer is a canine, ie meat eater, however, and didn't keep him to a strict veggie diet. She obviously is both smart and caring, which show in multiple ways as the story progresses. Heck, she even knows how to top off the oil in her mobile library van, not to mention do some basic leak repairs, so she's no helpless female. Love her ultimate helper, btw. 

Bottom line, despite minor quibbles, I enjoyed the book and will read more of the series. I liked Penny and John, and, oh, loved Fischer, and am looking forward to seeing where their relationship goes. Thanks to the author and publisher for introducing me to this series. I'm looking forward to getting to know all the characters better.

Ralphy’s Rules for Living the Good Life, by Talar Herculian Coursey, Meri Andreasyan (Illustrator)

 

Publication June 27, 2023

"Don't be a TyrantoCrankaTsuris."

Good advice for us all, child or adult. In fact, I couldn't help thinking as I read that this info should be required reading for many adults. As it is, it's obviously designed to be read aloud by adults, so, hmm, maybe perfect.

I liked the use of two animals almost any child would be familiar with, a squirrel and dog. Joey the cranky squirrel meets the perky, smiley Ralphy one day at the park and his life changes. I wonder how long it took him after the last page to figure out that Ralphy was just practicing his own good advice. The drawings are quite simple with no distracting backgrounds, so the focus remains on Joey and Ralphy, who appears to be a spaniel type. He's wearing a collar so one must assume he has humans (who never appear) somewhere who love him. The colors are basic and young children should enjoy the idea of critters doing very human things like playing soccer and riding a bike, not to mention getting hugs from those who love Joey. Remember, the target audience is children, so the simplicity works well.

Thanks #NetGalley and #PurpleButterflyPress - #IBRA for introducing me to Ralphy. My own Daisy dog gets quite cranky at the local squirrel, so maybe I need to read this to her.

Murder at a London Finishing School, by Jessica Ellicott

 Publication July 25, 2023   

Beryl and Edwina Mystery #7

On the surface, American adventuress Beryl Halliwell and Edwina Davenport seem an odd mix. Beryl is daring and brash. Edwina is, well, reserved and proper. Together, however, they make an excellent team of enquiry agents, ie private detectives in today's terms. Somehow their strengths and, yes, weaknesses meshed into a formidable duo, changing each for the better. Not that either is always willing to admit that change.

 

I warmed to this series slowly but have come to look forward to and thoroughly enjoy the more relaxed pace and just past WWI setting. Don't fret if you're just discovering the series as this one stands alone nicely. The author does an excellent job filling us in on background and connections with nary a pause. For instance, I loved what we learned of Beryl's past and personality when Desmond literally flies into the school and recalls Beryl once "borrowing" his test plane to do loops and circuits over the officials gathered at an event. Beryl leaps at the chance to fly the plane he flew in on while Edwina politely declines, saying she'd prefer to keep her feet on the ground. Right there is an excellent reveal of their personalities. You'll also get intriguing peeks at the personalities of the other characters, both regulars and new for this book. I'm rooting for Charles, btw.

 

And, oh, yes, the mystery. There's a dead body in the finishing school's garden grotto. How did she get there? I mean, Veronica makes the "mean girls" look sweet and kind but, well, who'd want to kill her? Oddly enough, the local law seems relatively uninterested? Why? Is Veronica's family's money an influence? But, what is behind all the spooky noises and thefts that are occurring? Even weirder, some of the items reappear while others don't? A ghost with ever changing tastes? Neither Beryl nor Edwina particularly enjoyed their stay at Miss Dupont's Finishing School, so why do they agree to visit anyway? What draws Beryl and Edwina's family of friends to follow them there? And, Mary? Why would someone whose memories of the school are probably worse than either Beryl or Edwina's now be working there? And....well, never mind. Enough teasers. Let's just say it gets really interesting then. 

 

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks for allowing me to check out a staid, ol' style British finishing school without having to endure the discipline often demanded of the girls. The times are changing, aren't they? Looking forward to seeing where that change next takes Beryl and Edwina. Hope Beryl got home in time to enjoy part of the golf adventure, anyway.

 

 

 

 

In Stitchness and in Health, by Reagan Davis and narrated by Zim Avaltrades AUDIO

 

 A Knitorious Murder Mystery, Book 10     AUDIO -- 6h and 3m

 

It's been awhile since I read the print version of this one, so it was fun to revisit Harmony Lake and hang out with Meg and her circle of friends. I won't detail the plot as others will have done so, so will simply say it starts with  celebrity wedding planning and ends up with a murder investigation, all while Meg and Eric finalize their whirlwind wedding plans. I grew to love the people of Harmony Lake and bet you will, too, so it was fun to hear their voices, so to speak. Narrator Zim Avaltrades does an admirable job given the size of the cast. The beginning of each chapter is simply announced, ie "Chapter 4", and the only voice I could quibble with was that of Eric, whose dialogue seemed a bit too measured, for lack of a better word. Then again, he's a cop, so a thoughtful, measured rate does seem an appropriate choice even if it threw me. 

 

As for the mystery, as noted, it was satisfactory if a bit sad. I'd actually forgotten whodunit since it's been some time since I read the book but even then it took me some time to put the clues in order again, so kept even a former, albeit forgetful reader guessing. Sophie the dog, a corgi, is, of course, a favorite of mine, especially with her newfound bilingual abilities. You're just going to have to trust me on that but it'll all make sense at the end. You'll also marvel at Meg's relationship with ex-husband Adam, father of daughter Hannah.

 

Bottom line, it was fascinating to see the community members come forward to support Meg and Eric when they....oh, oops, never mind. I almost gave away a plot twist and, trust me, there were a few as well as parallel story lines and viable suspects. Author Reagan Davis, who provided me with the audio code, weaves a good story with likable people who could be out own neighbors, an adorable corgi, and intriguing mystery. Put it all together and you've got another winner. 

Chasing Dreams: The True Story of the Youngest Female Tevis Cup Champion, by Sanoma Blakeley

 

Publication July 25, 2023

Although I was a horse crazy girl, I never tried endurance riding. I just didn't have the discipline. A couple friends did, however, try a few far shorter races than the Tevis Cup and I utilized some of their memories in one of the first stories I ever sold. Therefore, you can probably understand why I actually spent some moments just looking at the cover and going, "Wow!" in my mind. I'm happy to say, the book itself was a "Wow!", too. 

I also spent some time chuckling as I read the history of the Tevis Cup. I live in Alaska where sled dogs and the Iditarod race are frequent topics and the background of the races have similarities. Both started to prove the toughness of the animals in comparison to those of the past. Both take place in isolated, difficult to transverse territory with few spectators. Frequent stops are required for vet checks where the animals can be pulled by the vet for any variety of issues. Of course, in the Tevis Cup, unlike the Iditarod with its teams of dogs, your horse being eliminated by the vet means you are done whereas in the Iditarod, assuming the rest of the team is healthy, mushers may continue with simply fewer dogs. The animals come first, however, whether horse or dog in these contests. "To Finish Is To Win" is a motto of both, I note.

Sanoma Blakeley was fifteen when she entered and won the Tevis Cup but had been riding and competing since, well, almost forever. Horses were her life. a passion she shared with her family. And, oh, btw, her father and mother met in Ketchikan, Alaska, another Alaska tie for me. More amazingly, Goober, the horse that would carry her to victory in the Tevis Cup was found on Craigslist for free. I won't detail the race, part of the fun is feeling like you're in the saddle with Sanoma as they transverse trails with 36,000' of elevation and so narrow your stirrup scraps the side of the hill with a thousand foot drop off on the other side. Take a look at the cover photo if you have any doubt of the physical and mental strain on both the horse and rider. 

Yet, it's the bond between Sanoma and Goober, in particular, that pulls you in. I was charmed by her early tales of life with Midnight, that first horse that teaches us how to live and love horses, but Goober was special. If you don't feel anxiety and come near tears at the end. you've simply never had that undying bond with an animal yet. 

Highly recommended to anyone who loves horses, any animal really, and a good, "can-do" story. My sincere thanks to #NetGalley and #SantaMonicaPress for giving me this sneak peak. I absolutely loved her love for family and deep love and respect for all the horses in her life, not just Goober. I haven't been on a horse in years but suddenly felt the urge to go at least share a carrot or two with one.

Songs of Wine and Murder (A Tourist Trap Mystery #15), by Lynn Cahoon

 

Publication June 6, 2023

One of the things I want to mention up front is how much I enjoyed not just the easy give-and-take between Jill and Greg but that all the characters rang true.They care about each other and are easy to like, well, mostly, and had distinct personalities. Even Emma, Jill's lovely Golden Retriever, has a way of making her opinions known, which any dog owner can vouch were realistic. Oddly enough, Jill didn't seem as involved as usual in Greg's murder investigation although we do discover that she's not bad at axe throwing. Keep that in mind, Greg. <G>

So, who killed the lead singer of Matt's band? They're on the verge of a record contract if they can win the town festival's battle of the bands. Then, whoa, Axle turns up dead, strangled, but a replacement is found almost instantly. Suspicious much? Although Matt doesn't quite seem as driven as drummer Jules, would he kill to win the contract that would help him fulfill other, non-musical dreams? Or, maybe it was Jules? She seems to crave being a real "rock star". Would any of them have stood to benefit from the death of a lead singer? Hmm, maybe the almost-instant replacement singer? He sure had reasons to see the gig as a potential route to fame and fortune. Someone in the town? Who was determined to see their favorite win? 

Jill is a worrier. She's also got the knack of being in the right place at the, sigh, right or wrong time. The things she overhears. Why is the police station suddenly in such a state of disorganization? Can Jill's chocolate chip cookies help? Will Jill and Greg find time to take the couple's pre-wedding finance class with Pastor Bill? Speaking of Pastor Bill, what's going on with him and Sadie? And, hmm, what secret is Aunt Jackie keeping? Hmm, and that isn't the half of it for Jill. There's Toby's confused sadness and a major author event to put on and....well, lots more.

Bottom line, although the intro seemed a slow build, it was setting the scene nicely for what was to come. As noted, the characters are realistic and likable, and though I marvel how Jill keeps everything moving along smoothly, we see the role her friends and co-workers play. In other words, this is a character driven book, my favorite kind. Music festivals are fun but lots of work, let's just say. Relationships need work and change is inevitable, but Jill tends to look for the good in everyone. 

I did get a kick out of the pleasure Jill is finding in learning to utilize a planner and lists, all while trying to eat a more healthy meal....occasionally. Fish-and-Chips is her go-to comfort meal, however, which the author notes is a trait she shares with Jill, so it's a bit of a struggle. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #LyricalUnderground for letting me spend some time hanging out with Jill and her friends and family. Loved the music theme and am looking forward on checking up on Jill's success with her best intentions of eating better next visit.

Fascism: A Warning, by Madeleine Albright

 

From a 2018 post to Facebook that I made:

Finally started Madeleine Albright's "Fascism: A Warning" and, so far, uh, as of the end of Ch. 1, liking it lots. If you're not familiar with Albright's background, she was born just before Hitler invaded Czech. and they had to flee for their lives. She only found out later how many family members were gone forever cos of the Holocaust. After a brief spell of freedom and democracy, her family was forced to flee once again, this time to America. Not in the mood to do the notes needed to do a running commentary, but will say so far it's a good, easy read and quite interesting. BTW, among other prestigious positions, she served as Sec. of State and UN Ambassador, so she has a bit of experience to draw from other than her own early life experiences. Give it a read.

Amazon Book Blurb:

"Goodreads Choice Award     Nominee for Best Nonfiction (2018)

"A personal and urgent examination of Fascism in the twentieth century and how its legacy shapes today’s world, written by one of America’s most admired public servants, the first woman to serve as U.S. secretary of state

A Fascist, observes Madeleine Albright, “is someone who claims to speak for a whole nation or group, is utterly unconcerned with the rights of others, and is willing to use violence and whatever other means are necessary to achieve the goals he or she might have.” 

The twentieth century was defined by the clash between democracy and Fascism, a struggle that created uncertainty about the survival of human freedom and left millions dead. Given the horrors of that experience, one might expect the world to reject the spiritual successors to Hitler and Mussolini should they arise in our era. In Fascism: A Warning, Madeleine Albright draws on her experiences as a child in war-torn Europe and her distinguished career as a diplomat to question that assumption.

Fascism, as she shows, not only endured through the twentieth century but now presents a more virulent threat to peace and justice than at any time since the end of World War II.  The momentum toward democracy that swept the world when the Berlin Wall fell has gone into reverse.  The United States, which historically championed the free world, is led by a president who exacerbates division and heaps scorn on democratic institutions.  In many countries, economic, technological, and cultural factors are weakening the political center and empowering the extremes of right and left.  Contemporary leaders such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un are employing many of the tactics used by Fascists in the 1920s and 30s.

Fascism: A Warning is a book for our times that is relevant to all times.  Written  by someone who has not only studied history but helped to shape it, this call to arms teaches us the lessons we must understand and the questions we must answer if we are to save ourselves from repeating the tragic errors of the past.

GenresNonfictionPoliticsHistoryAudiobookPolitical SciencePhilosophyWar

320 pages, ebook

First published April 9, 2018

Murder at Abbeymead Farm(Flora Steele Mystery #6), by Merryn Allingham

 Publication May 16, 2023

What's a sleuth to do when one of their prime suspects is murdered, too? That's just one of the problems facing Flora and Jack this go-round. I was pleased that we seemed to be getting more of the story through Jack's eyes this time, with Flora unusually rattled by the death of a man she considered a friend, Percy Milburn. Given the vandalism to some beloved objects and, well, Flora is having a rough go of it. That's even without all the not-so-subtle hints that many expect to see Jack and her wed soon. 

So, who killed Percy, a man determined to make changes to stubbornly unchanging Abbeymead? Honestly, I didn't see this one coming. Was it Sir Frederick, whose decision to sell a piece of proper started the whole mess, or maybe his nephew Piers who has his own ideas of what should be done with the same property? Or maybe the ambitious Colin, who stood to gain a fortune? Surely not sweet, mild mannered Minnie, Percy's maid? Or one of the many citizens who are rankled by Percy's plan to build a hostel and, in their minds, bring the wrong kind of people to Abbeymead? Most seem content that Abbeymead remain the same forever. 

There's great deal going on in this installment. I've read the series from the beginning and have enjoyed watching the relationship between Jack and Flora develop. Hmm, will that mysterious letter push it along or throw more obstacles in the way?  Well, like finding dead bodies isn't distraction enough. Oddly enough, one my favorite things about the duo is that they've proven to be fallible. That makes them all the more human in my eyes. Jack's willingness to go the extra mile to make Flora happy is definitely sweet and I'm rooting for him. 

Thanks #NetGalley and #Bookouture for inviting me back to Abbeymead. Life was both more difficult yet more simple in so many ways in 1957.

Muddled Matrimonial Murder (Cupcake Catering Mystery Series Book 6), by Kim Davis

 

Publication June 13, 2023

This was a new-to-me series, so it was interesting to get to know new people and their community. Although the beginning seemed slow to me, that was probably simply because of my newness and the unfamiliarity of the various characters as they were introduced in rather quick order in the opening chapter. In the grand scheme of things, other than slowing me down briefly, it works as a standalone as the author does an excellent job filling us in on who is who and what their connections are. 

As the book is opening, main character Emory Martinez is working on finalizing plans for the wedding of friend Brad to police detective Gabe. Unexplainably, Gabe is awol and Brad is worried. As it turns out, he had cause to be worried. Brad and Emory find a dead body the next day when the go to his grandparent's home to drop of some of the wedding gifts. Never mind that the wedding invitation said no gifts. People will do what they deem is right. One of the gifts, a muddler, which I admit to having to look up, was the murder weapon. Gabe's prints are on the muddler but, wait, he admits to being the one to put the muddler on the counter. Surveillance video shows him entering the estate but not exiting, albeit that may be due to a community power failure at the time. 

So, where is Gabe? What's his story? Why has he been avoiding Brad? Does he have feeling for Colin? What's the story on the dead woman, who Brad had a restraining order out on due to past stalking encounters? Did unrequited love play a role? How did she find him? Could Brad have actually killed her? His alibi is non-existent for the estimated time of death. How did the woman get into a gated, security gated community anyway? What secrets are being kept? Will the past invade the present? Will family bonds hold? Will Emory every learn to delegate? Will she find herself in danger due to her "snooping"? Oh, come on. You at least know the answer to that one. 

Who....nope, enough teasers. Bottom line, although I was doubtful about this book initially due to my own slowness in grasping the many characters and relationships, I warmed to it quickly. I liked Emory and, btw, wish she were real so I could taste test some of her baking, The supporting cast was equally easy to like and, hey, she has two rescue dogs, Piper and Missy. Now that I've been introduced to them all, I'm looking forward to a return visit. Thanks to #BookSirens and #Cinnamon&SugarPress for the introduction and will definitely be back. Heck, I'm probably going to be doing catch-up reading of the entire series, now that I think about it.

Murder in the Book Lover’s Loft (Book Retreat Mysteries, #9), by Ellery Adams

 Publication Juloy 25, 2023

A multi-layered mystery with well-rounded characters and, oh, my, books and more books. A definite book lover's dream. You don't have to start on book one to grasp the story, it stands alone nicely, but I recommend it. First, because the series is that good and, second, you'll have a far better grasp of who is who and the full meaning behind Storyton Hall and Jane Steward's role there. This go-round, we join Jane and boyfriend Edwin Allcott on vacation at the beach. But, oh, my, this was not the vacation either was expecting. Unfortunately, Jane's unwanted knack of stumbling over dead bodies followed them to the beach.

I won't even attempt to detail the plot other than to say that Jane's role as guardian of Storyton Hall and its priceless book collection plays a role. As with previous books in the series, the characters' lives are interwoven and complex, with past tragedies playing a role. In the process of watching Jane unravel the crime, we do get to indulge in books, book, books. Author names flowed in and out of the story. Of course, the author characters here are fictional but Adams brings them to life nicely. Along the way, you'll even pick up some bits of sea life info, such as what a group of stingrays are called and maybe, given the Steve Irwin tragedy, more than you want to know about their deadly barbs. If you're new to the series, you'll also note that Jane's past experiences have sadly made her mega-efficient at how a facility can best host a police investigation, bewildered guests, and suspects, not to mention a death in the resort garden. Jane would rather not have that knowledge, thank you, and hopes to re-home Storyton's renowned book collection soon.

As to the murder, er, murders, how are they connected? As Jane talks to others, it becomes obvious that Justin St. James, he of the skull called Septimus, had many enemies. What do they all have in common? How does Jane fit into that pattern? How did he die anyway? Did he just keel over on the beach dune? If so, why no tracks? What does a torn out book page have to do with anything? Will the Finns, Jane's group of protectors and assistants, be able to figure it out? But what is the murdered resort worker's connection, if any? Why does Jane plan to send a thank you to someone after her encounter with Trent? How the heck is he connected? Why is Butterworth there?

And, why....oh, nope. Enough teasers. If you love mysteries, books, talking about books and authors, listening in as smart people figure out whodunit, and, well, even romance, this book is for you. Sadly, while Uncle Aloysus' actions near the end give me hope we'll hear more from Storyton Hall, this sounds like the end of a series. I'll miss it although the ending was a lovely, high point to end on. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me along for the ride. Glad Olivia was along, too.

12 Rounds with Bob Dylan: The Pugilistic Poet, by Richard B. Westlein

 Available June 7, 2023

"Dances with words." 

That phrase jumped out at me at some point. While I'm not a huge Dylan fan in the sense of following his every move, I've long admired his way with words. That said, I've got to admit it was the cover and title of this book that lured me in. Quite frankly, I had no idea what the expect. Something about Bob Dylan and boxing? Gotta admit, that was an intriguing, if somewhat bewildering thought.

Author Richard Westlein used the boxing motif as a means of boxing, sorry, couldn't resist the pun, Dylan's various periods into twelve categories, ie the twelve rounds of the title. I won't detail the categories, after all, that's what the book does, but will note they begin with a young Bobby Zimmerman and follow his evolution into today, including his part in the Traveling Wilbury's, I'll note. It's rather impressive, I'd say, especially since the by then Bob Dylan was once known in whispers as Hammond's Folly at Columbia Records, which John Hammond had signed Dylan to on the basis of promise more than actual product.  Not bad for someone who'd go on to be the voice of an era and win the Nobel Prize for Literature.

Westlein has meticulously researched his subject. Not only does he intro the idea of categorizing the work of Dylan with references to the likes of 18th century scholar Johann Winckelmann, but even Picasso gets a mention. That section was a bit dry but worked for this former history major/teacher. Once the focus shifted to Dylan's life, however, things picked up as Westlein put his material into order. He includes bullet points, album details and a scorecard of sorts for each division. At the end you will find an extensive list of additional sources, both on and offline, references and even more internet reference sites, and a discography. And, oh, lots of notable names pop up.

Bottom line, while not even an avid Dylan follower, I found this an interesting read, one that didn't just make me think but taught me something. Dylan once said something to the extent of life being about creating a life, not finding one, and this goes a long way toward explaining how Bob Dylan did just that. Thanks to #JupiterPublishingCompany - #BooksSirens and #RichardWestlein for giving me this sneak peek at Bob Dylan, boxer and musician and hero of ages.

 

Murder at the Pumpkin Pageant (Beacon Bakeshop #4), by Darci Hannah

 

Publication July 25, 2023

Wow. Wow. Wow. This one has so much going on that it's hard to decide where to start. Halloween at Beacon Harbor, Michigan, may never be the same. 

Let's see. What do we have here? Ghosts. Goblins. Pranksters. Costumes. Pirates and Princesses. clowns. Dogs in costume. And, oh, let's not forget the Grim Reaper. We've also got Ghost Hunters, a haunted lighthouse, missing poodle, viral videos, witches, foraging, crystals, pumpkins, and, oh, yes, a dead body. But, this particular dead body seems to have been murdered twice, just to add to the puzzlement and fears of the town. 

And, wow, that is just touching on some of the things you'll encounter within. Amazingly enough, as diverse and even contradictory as some sound, Lindsey Bakewell and her circle of family and friends somehow manage to bring it all together and make it make sense at the end. I can't even begin to explain how without giving away too much of the plot and, trust me, the fun is in getting to that point. Relax, though, as author Darci Hannah offers up a feast of yummy sounding fall recipes for you to make and devour as you read, plus more at the end of this roller-coaster ride. And, oh, there's also romance. Romance and dogs. You rock, Welly, and Trixie shows her loyalty to her humans, too. 

Bottom line, while I couldn't wait to find out whodunnit, I also didn't want this one to end. I even had a hunch as to the ultimate guilty party but, well, there were so many likely suspects that I wasn't sure until the very, very end. That ending is a wowzer, btw. If you like cozy mysteries, especially Halloween themed ones, don't miss this book. Thanks to #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks -#KensingtonCozies for allowing me to visit Lindsey and friends again. After that surprising cliffhanger of a sort at the end, I can't wait to get back to Beacon Harbor.

Steeped in Malice, by Vicki Delany

 

Publication July 25, 2023     Tea by the Sea Mysteries #4

Oh, Peter Rabbit, look what kind of trouble you got Lily into this time. All she wanted to do was buy a children's set of Beatrix Potter inspired Peter Rabbit teacups. Who know it'd lead to murder?

Not long after she's brought the tea set home (who knew there are tea cup shortages?) and it into use, a woman shows up claiming the tea set is rightfully hers. The woman, Kimberley, insists it was sold without permission. Assuming it has sentimental meaning, Lily is agreeable to giving it to her but not right that moment. She's busy. Kimberley becomes demanding, attempting to bully Lilly into giving the tea cups immediately, which are at that moment in use at a child's party. Lily gets her back up and refuses. Kimberley finally stomps away after Lily promises to return the cups after closing. I'm a bit fuzzy on how Lily could think someone that nasty about it all could be sentimental over it but, well, nevertheless, she gives it to her later. 

Much to Lily's surprise, the woman simply slices open the silk covering in the basket the cups came in and removes an envelope and leaves with just that, even paying Lily $100 as she leaves. Lily is bemused but, again, oddly enough in my mind, doesn't think twice about it. That is, until another woman arrives wanting the box, Rachel, who Lily knew from a former work place. Even then, Lily is determined to stay out of it, even when the women launch into a fight in her shop.

Do you see what's coming? Yep, one of the women winds up being murdered. Again, it was a stretch to me to imagine Lily just ignoring shouting and arguing outside her house given the earlier near fist-a-cuffs, but she does....until her dog, Eclair, a labradoodle, raises such a fuss she does decide to look. She finds Kimberley dead. And that's when the story takes off. And, oh, did I mention Kimberley was married to an obnoxious, stuck-on-himself man named Wesley? No? Well, he is Lily's ex. Ah, complications. 

Lily finds herself investigating. I'll admit to not quite figuring out whodunit until the final reveal. Hunches don't count, sigh. So, who killed Kimberley? For a man who has just lost his wife, Wesley seems to be stuck on snidely thinking he can woe Lily back. How about Rachel? Turns out there is a complicated, fractious family relationship between Kimberley, a brother, and her. What is in that envelop Kimberley grabbed and practically ran out of the tea shop with? Should she have taken the tea cups, too? How is Rose staying so grounded through all this? Why is Simon the gardener always hanging around? Is presentation really important for a traditional British tea party? Since I was reading this during the coronation of Great Britain's King Charles, traditional English teas seemed an ideal topic to be reading about. 

Anyway, enough teasers. Although, as noted, I had to stretch my belief a few times, this was a fun, intriguing read. Excellent red herrings and a variety of suspects woven together by a skilled author. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me for tea. After that ending, can't wait till my next visit. 

Wine Witch on Fire: Rising from the Ashes of Divorce, Defamation, and Drinking Too Much, by Natalie MacLean

 

Available May 9 (Canada) and June 7 (US)

First, an admission. I know next to nothing about the wine industry, its marketing or community. I know the issues of women climbing the ladder in a largely male dominated area, however. That said, while I found the details of MacLean's climb as a wine writer and the obstacles she faced specific to that industry interesting, especially while dealing with the devastation of divorce, it was the human element that attracted me.

I'm not going to detail the story, others will have done a far better job of it than I could. Instead, I'm simply going to share some of my own reactions as I read. First, I was impressed by the brutal honestly of Natalie MacLean. She somehow came across as vulnerable and emotional while still showing strength and determination. Her husband's unexpected declaration that he wanted a divorce, during the Christmas holidays, no less, closely followed by attacks on her career by rivals, left her stunned. Yet, even as her world whirled out of control, her first thought was of her then young son. No matter what, she wanted to protect him. That made me like her and want to see her come out ahead. Mother first, business woman second, in other words. This is the story of how she got to that point and how she moved on, often stumbling, questioning herself, unsure, uneasy, yet determined to turn this disaster into victory. I wanted to see her overcome, so to speak.

It's an often emotional, intense read. She shares words of wisdom from friends and counselors. Given recent media attention to mental issues and depression where those seeking help are often scoffed at for being weak, she did what she needed to do. That said, she worried that people would think her a psychological exhibitionist by sharing her roller-coaster ride in a book, but pressed on. You'll like her counselor. It's an intensely personal story, one that will dazzle you one moment with peeks into the glamour of the wine industry, with hints on tasting and evaluating wine, but also tell you how she came to write about wine in the first place. Yes, it's all there. Laid out bare. 

Quite frankly, I've barely touched the surface of all I learned, experienced, and, yes, felt as I read. Her personal story isn't mine and while our worlds seem far, far apart, human nature and experiences are universal. Be prepared for quite the ride as you read. It won't be an easy read but you won't regret one moment of it.

Rebel Girls Level Up: 25 Tales of Gaming and the Metaverse, by Rebel Girls

 Publication June 27, 2023

First, a confession. I'm not into gaming other than idle moments with solitaire and such old-fashioned games now online. Not only were those showcased here unknown to me but so to was the background history shared. As a result, I was looking forward to learning something new. I did. I was impressed.

Against an environment that maybe wasn't always hostile but wasn't welcoming to women, either, the women you'll meet here not only persevered but overcame obstacles. It's always difficult to pick just a few to highlight but one that stood out to me is known online as Mackenseize. She turned to gaming after an epilepsy diagnosis turned her world upside-down. Her future dreams shattered, she found herself turning to the Heartstone game community as a distraction. This ultimately lead her to create a streaming community as a safe place to open up about her disability. She soon discovered she wasn't alone and her stream thrived. Another,  Marina Diez Pereire created a game called "Hey, Dad: A Brief Story of Mental Illness" in response to her own father's difficulties and her difficulty relating. In other words, it isn't all non-stop action.

What I particularly admired about them all was that they worked from where the were, often building upon almost nothing. Each story opens with the dreams they had as a child and what ultimately lead them to a career focused on the gaming world,plus a portrait, quote, and info on where they are from. They come from all over. Sylvia Gathoni was in Kenya, hardly a place most would think of as a thriving game environment, when she first encountered Lara Croft in Tomb Raider. She's now an eSports player. Ever seen a virtual concert? You may have Cathy Hackl to thank. And...well, so much more, some of which is discussed in the blurb, so I won't go on at length.

I'll simply say that once again Rebel Girls has hit it out of the park. They've also taken the unusual step for a group showcasing human skills of showing us some AI skills. Don't worry, they aren't switching to AI illustrations. They plan to continue with their worldwide host of talented artists. There's even a space for readers to create their own self-portrait and write down their own story included. The fun doesn't end there as they offer up a fun code based game (no computer required) and info on how to create your own character. I  liked the suggestions that young gamers might benefit from talking to their elders, so to speak. It even offers up conversational ideas. Finally, there's an app icon readers can scan to take them to even more online. 

Bottom line, I recommend this book/series highly. The Rebel Girls group works "to raise the most inspired and confident generation of girls through content experiences, products, and community." It does so by amplifying real-life stories of women like these. Thanks #NetGalley and #RebelGirls for sharing more of your Rebel Girls community with me.

A Fatal Groove (Record Shop Mystery #2), by Olivia Blacke

 Publication July 25, 2023

With this one, you get two mysteries, one old, one new. The old one involves a bank robbery and the never recovered loot supposedly buried...somewhere. The robbers were killed before they could recover it. The second, newer mystery, who killed Cedar River's Mayor Bob? Juni(per) Jessup finds the ineffectual but relatively harmless mayor dead in his office during the town's bluebonnet festival. He's still holding a coffee cup from, you guessed it, the Sip & Spin Record shop which Juni co-owns with her family. Her sister Tansy made the coffee for him. The investigator in charge is Juni's old beau, uh, Beau. 

Cedar River, near Austin, is a small town and gossip spreads fast. How fast? Almost before Juni can ever return home after giving a statement about how she came to discover the body. In this case, the gossip seemed to spiral, from a mutilated body to little green men with probes, no lie. So, outrageously humorous and insightful into small towns and how gossip grows wilder with each sharing. Although sworn not to talk about the case, Juni does attempt to calm minds, albeit with limited success. Mayor Bob's wife is reportedly away on an Alaskan cruise.

Juni is soon investigating with the help of sisters Tansy and Maggie, with input from Uncle Calvin, who has mellowed a tad since book one, I note. His stories still tend to be long and rambling, however, they're also often revealing once Juni manages to get him to the point. What connection did Mayor Bob have to used car salesman Marcus? Does Marcus have an ulterior motive for dating Juni's widowed mother? Juni could use a map to sift through all the clues piling up, so where is that map when she needs it? Why doesn't Juni simply share the info she gets with Beau? Will people ever trust Sip & Spin for coffee again?

And, will Buttercup be a recurring character? Don't ask, just read. Daffy the cat gets some space, too, I'll note. Bottom line, it's a fun, relatively quick read with humor and romance, so lots going on. Heck, first time I've ever heard of a hole digging contest. I'm not a fan of love-triangles, however, so hope the Beau or Teddy triangle is resolved soon. Both seem great guys.

Thanks #NetGalley and #StMartinsPress - #StMartinsPaperbacks for inviting me back to Cedar River, Texas. The bluebonnets are lovely.

Daisy likes this title

 

Secret Service Dogs: The Heroes Who Protect the President of the United States, By Maria Goodavage, Clint Hill (Foreword)

 

Here's one I read in 2017 and commented about on Facebook:

Quick take on "Secret Service Dogs" by Goodavage: It's good. Quite readable and the author does an excellent job of showing not only the personalities of the handlers but some of the individual dogs themselves. Not very far into it yet but so far enjoying it thoroughly.

 

A Higher Loyalty: Truth, Lies, and Leadership, by James Comey

 

I actually read this back in 2018 when it first came out. Was prepared to be at best neutral but actually found myself liking the guy and what he had to say. He touched on his own background, too, including being bullied as a child, and the surely demoralizing period of time when he worked for and was fired by Donald Trump. 

I made a long string of posts but here are just a few takeaways I noted on my Facebook page: 

A bit more from Comey book.

1. Comey constantly revisits need of FBI to stay at arm's length from politics. Trump making that difficult. Comey's assessment of him was that he seemed to be "a deeply insecure man, which made it impossible for him to demonstrate humility, and he seemed very unlikely to be confident and humble enough to ask the 'What am I missing' question at the heart of sound judgment.

2. "There has always been a line. The intelligence community does facts; the White House does politics and spin, and does it on its own." Concerns that Trump team trying to pull FBI into that spin.

3.When told about the Russian dossier and allegations, Trump's reaction was dismissive. Seemed to ignore Comey's assurances that whether it happened or not, the FBI didn't care. That what was important was that it not be used against Trump somehow, to influence him in any way. Trump's reaction was to ask if he looked like the kinda guy who needed prostitutes. Without it being brought up, Trump segued into the many sexual assault allegations against him. Meeting lasted maybe five minutes and Comey met Jared for the first time on the way out of the offices. The news about the dossier was soon leaked and not by FBI.

Oh, I could say so much but, well, this has been hashed to death on the media. It is pretty clear tho' that Trump just doesn't have the whatever it takes to see the big picture and accept that everything that happens isn't about him, him, him.

 

Another Facebook post the same day"

I .read a bit more of the Comey book last night. Notes from it:

1. Russia "sought to undermine confidence in the American democratic enterprise--to dirty us up so that our election process would no longer be an inspiration to the world." Boy, my take, Trump is sure helping them.

2. Putin wanted to hurt Clinton cos blamed her for comments made in Dec. 2011 that he felt were a sort of secret signal to Russian opposition to criticize and oppose him. Me, "Gads, is he as paranoid as Trump?"

3. Putin wanted to help Trump who Putin appreciated for his willingness to cast aside ideals rather than stand on principle. Me, "Gee, nice tribute there, Trump."

 

More: 

Comey book reactions. This one, in particular, struck me: Comey doesn't recall ever seeing Trump laugh. "I suspect his apparent inability to do so is rooted in deep insecurity, his inability to be vulnerable, or to risk himself by appreciating the humor of others which, on reflection, is really sad in a leader, and a little scary in a president."

He does recall one sorta laugh, Trump's reaction to someone in an audience shouting out that a dog barking must be Hillary. 

 

 

The Sweetheart List (Sunrise Cove #4), by Jill Shalvis

 

Publication June 13, 2023

Shalvis is a master at creating books that give readers all the "feels". This one is no exception. I'd sorta drifted away from her books for awhile but am glad I found my way home with the advent of the Sunrise Cove series. Harper Shaw is starting over. She's brittle, prickly, and talks to her dog, a 125 lb. Bermese  rescue. I liked her immediately. I did have to chuckle as she slides into town, literally, honest, and makes the comment about not realizing there would be snow on the ground that time of year. Uh, yeah, right. Anyone who follows Shalvis on social media surely knows what the weather is like in the Tahoe area. Me think this was wistful wishing on Shalvis’ part  ha

In any case, Harper is not just starting over, she's making an effort to change how she lives her life, too. For instance, no lists. I'm not sure that was a great idea when you're moving but, well, it does mean she'll be more open to random people and adventure, right? Well, not exactly. Let's just say ignoring an offer of help, twice, in fact, tells you right away that the new Harper is still a work in progress. Hambone, aka Ham, her dog, in contrast, seems to have never met a stranger. Of course, although she’s sworn off men, she’s not blind. She's not immune to men, noticing that the stranger, Brodie Campbell, is, well, attractive. He turns out to not just own the bar next to her soon-to-be business, but is her landlord. She's also not sure about Shay who comes to her rescue with kitty litter. The fact she's dressed up as Velma from the Scooby Doo crew when they first meet probably had something to do with Harper's reluctance to trust her immediately. That said, somehow you just know they're going to be great friends.

I won't detail the plot as the blurb does an excellent job. I loved the characters immediately and the fact that we got to see things quickly through the eyes of both main characters, Harper and Brodie. The nuances and quirks of each emerge as we learn their backstories, not to mention the stories of the supporting characters. Now, true, you just want to shake some sense into some of them almost immediately, too, as they hide their real emotions and selves behind invisible walls. In other words, be prepared for a bit of an emotional roller coaster at times. Toss in a runaway teen girl searching for her real father and, whoa, life gets interesting for our new friends in Sunshine Cove. Oh, and you'll love the family texts sent by the brothers. They alone provide great insight into who each brother is and that despite the joking around they love each other. And, trust me, there are several love stories for you to enjoy. Just make sure that seat belt for the emotional roller coaster is firmly fastened.

Bottom line, if you like romances and women's fiction that is both character driven and well-written, you should give this one a read. There's much more to the story than I've touched on, so it'll grab and hold your attention and, yes, give your "feels" a work-out. Thanks #NetGalley and #Avon - #HarperVoyager for inviting me back to Sunrise Cove. Hope to return soon.

Death of a Clam Digger (Hayley Powell Food and Cocktails Mystery #16), by Lee Hollis

 

Publication July 25, 2023

Boom, boom, boom. Things moved along at a rapid clip, one after another. I mean, it barely gave me time to take a deep breath when Hayley had some uncharacteristic self-doubts and the action paused...briefly. Aside from that, the fast pace of the story keeps you reading, wondering what will happen on the next page or two, meaning you should probably not start reading until you have a bit of time. If you're like me, you'll find yourself clicking along at that boom, boom, boom pace until the end. What fun!

Hollis is a favorite author and I have particularly enjoyed this series, so it's no surprise I liked it. My only qualm, which may have more to do with the timing of my read than the book itself, was that I shuddered at certain characters frequent resorting to violence and even guns. Despite the blurb mention of Romeo and Juliet vibes, it frequently felt more like we were caught in the crossfire between the Hatfield and McCoy clans, Hayley's attempts to divert encounters were both amusing and relatively useless, but I liked that she tried. I have to admit to having a sense of relief later at Mona's eventual realization about the shortness of life, so to speak. Oh, and then they find the body.

Who murdered a dying man? Why are Vera and Mona usually at each other's throats? Will young love conquer all? What does a potential seafood company have to do with anything? Could Hayley's husband Bruce really be tempted to stray? Will Hayley's asking of questions be dangerous? Oh, never mind. Of course it will be but, well, she just can't help it. No more teasers. Read the book. My mood going into the book aside, it's a fun read you'll be unlikely to be able to put down. 

And, that includes salivating over the recipes at the conclusion of each of Hayley's Island Food and Spirits column inserts every few chapters. Hey, there are even recipes for dips and cocktails! Don't skip the columns, btw. They offer great insights into the characters backgrounds and interactions, insights that will frequently help you sort out the mystery. Or, well, not. At least you'll have a dip or cocktail to ponder over.

Thanks #NetGalley and #KensigntonBooks - #KensingtonCozies for inviting me back to Bar Harbor, Maine. Hope things are a tad calmer my next visit.

The War Came to Us: Life and Death in Ukraine, by Christopher Miller

 

 Available July 18, 2023

This gives us a front row seat for what has going on in Ukraine the day of the Russian invasion. Miller was there. Not only do we get a peek at a text Alexander Vindman sent to him just hours before the first cruise missiles began falling, we get to see the behind the scenes reactions of not just the Ukrainians, many of whom had been through this before in 2014, but the media. They always look so cool and calm when the "on the air" light goes on but, well, that is definitely not always easy, as we learn here.

Maybe equally importantly, the author shares his years of experience and insight from living and working in Ukraine for years. You'll get to know the people, the average Ukrainian, and get some insight into their pre-attack take on Russia and government in general. You'll also learn things like why the Russians were so determined to capture the last hold-outs in that salt mine, so to speak, and the impact that defiance had on the ultimate plan. You'll also hear harrowing accounts of some of those taken hostage and shipped to Russia, including endless rounds of hours and hours of interrogation and being forced in front of television cameras. It isn't pretty and you will sense Miller's genuine concern for the people involved and others he struggles to keep tabs on.

And, when you aren't focused on war, you'll learn about favorite foods, best places to eat (wonder how many still exist?), dress, and bits of the language and lore. Miller even sneaks in history lessons as he writes of his own learning curve in the Ukraine after originally sent there by the Peace Corps in 2009. He was sent to the Donbas. That saga in itself is worth a book. Oh, what they must have thought of that bearded young American that one child dubbed Uncle Hedgehog, who rode everywhere on a no-frills bicycle. 

I won't detail the rest of the war related information since, sadly, it isn't exactly unknown. What is great about this book, though, is that through his seemingly idle memory sharing, several "whys" emerge as to why such and such was done or the reactions. 

Bottom line, I feel smarter and far better informed for reading this book. My sincere thanks to #NetGalley and #BloomburyUSA for making it available.

Happy Makes Me Happy, by MR B's Books

 

If you've ever been owned by a dog, my hunch is you'll find yourself smiling as you read this book. Illustrated by Blinky, Michael Barnes' story of Happy and his girl made me smile. The colors used add to that soothing, happy sense as they're of the earth with touches of brighter colors and, oh, that beautiful blue sky with the birds and butterflies. In fact, the repetition of the sky art, neatly coupled with the next picture of the action, is somehow soothing, I decided after pondering the why of it. In a rhyming narrative, repetition adds to the sense of peaceful, all is right with the world while preparing us for the next scene. 

Happy the dog appears to be a spaniel type and, yes, he's a smiley, happy dog. Interesting that Happy is the only character named in the narrative, a hint on where our focus should be. Happy is seemingly a gentle, loving dog, always ready for adventure or to share a lick or smile. Oh, that tongue. His girl and her friends are diverse, both male and female, I'll note. When adults/parents enter the scene, the woman/mother is wearing a dress of sunny yellow as the man/father seems to be grilling their meal. The friends and, of course, Happy, remain. One nice, subtle scene shows the children and adults holding hands and forming a circle around Happy, again making that happy dog the focus. Great interaction. 

That night, after her friends have left and it's time for a last cuddle and bedtime, we see Happy without his blue bandana for the first time. It's hanging from the girl's bed's headboard while Happy, well, happily snoozes in his comfy bed beside it. We even get a peek at what he's dreaming about via a thought bubble. I bet you can guess it was a happy dream.

As someone owned by a dog, albeit mine claims whatever percentage of my bed that she so wants, I thoroughly enjoyed this lovely children's book dedicated to the author's own daughter. The message is simple, love others and treat them with gentleness. The illustrations and rhyme of the story makes it a delight to read. Thank you #NetGalley and #MKAuthorMarketingServices for letting me enjoy my lovely day with Happy and friends.

Skeleton in the Art Closet: A Watercolor Mystery by Gail Langer Karwoski

 

I feel like I've just spent a terrific weekend wrapped in the warmth of good times and friends. I hated to leave. Even in the midst of solving a murder, Jane and her artist friends are wonderful company, full of delightful chatter and quips. They're also wonderfully caring, albeit Jane finds herself frustrated at times when they become distracted and veer off subject. They're people you'll wish you knew, from energetic Pam's love for her not so well behaved Newfie, Tillie, Donna's tendency to faint when stressed, and Jane's laser focus, they are definitely people I'd love to know. Heck, besides Tillie's rambunctiousness, cats Levi and Lotus have personalities, too. In other words, I like them all.

Artists tend to see details many of us miss. I don't want to detail the plot too much and spoil things, but will tell you to pay attention to details. In this book, like a painting, tiny details build one layer at a time, often seeming innocuous, creating the whole picture. So, first, let's just say, the book title tells us how it all begins...but that's just the beginning. Skeletons, well, fake ones, aren't unusual in artist setting. Students and even accomplished artists use them to help visualize the whole body, so to speak. But, wait. There's a second skeleton and, yikes, this one isn't fake. Even worse, it's a child's skeleton. 

That sends the ever curious Jane, not to mention the police, off to find answers. Officer Beau Strickland treats her with respect, I was glad to see, as so often amateur sleuths are ridiculed and dismissed in cozy mysteries. So, how did a real skeleton get in the AAC facility's closet? Is it somehow connected to a loud, bottle throwing, oh, so angry artist? Are you claustrophobic? If so, stay out of the tunnel. And, if, like Pam, you tend to sneeze when dust flies, you should probably take an allergy med if you do ever have cause to venture into the tunnel. 

Sorry, no more teasers. I'll just say that like a skeleton, one clue is connected to another. One stroke of the brush, so to speak, allows Jane to finally paint the whole picture in her mind. I'll just add that a cemetery and broken human bones are involved, not to mention visits to an antique shop, orthopedist, and more. No, not spooky. Just puzzling. From the opening screams of a child to what was surely Jane's relief at the arrival of....oh, no, never mind. Too much.  You're just going to have to read the book. I'm betting, like me, you'll wish the painting group was in your group of friends, too. Highly recommended.