Down with Lime Books! A Story About Book Banning, by Jan Zauzmer

 

Publication Sept. 23,2025

Don't let the lively, colorful illustrations and bouncy rhythm fool you. This book carries a powerful punch. It not only introduces young children to what book banning is but offers them examples of how to fight back against it. You just know when you see the scowling face of a woman peeking in the library window that something is about to happen and, well, it does. It follows the now usual pattern of one person deciding they're offended, then getting vocal and drawing in curious, often clueless support. In this case it's lime colored books being used for books accused of being offensive for a variety of reasons or, for that matter, none that make sense. 

Seeing one child being brave enough to speak out and therefore rally opposition to censorship is a message we all need to take to heart. While remaining silent and above the fray may be easier, it doesn't accomplish anything other than allowing those who'd take books out of our hands to seem even more powerful. This example of taking action, especially when scowling adults are the opponents, could offer support to other youngsters who feel voiceless. The illustrations of smiling readers before the lime books were targeted and the more somber, sad expressions after were well done. There's humor to be found here, too, especially in the spread depicting the protest signs sported by the two factions. Quite creative and pointed and, yes, both sides are shown. I bet you can guess which ones showed thought.

Bottom line, while targeting  very young children, meaning adults will have to read this to them, this one should work with slightly older students, too. I'd nudge parents to read along with them, however, no matter the age, as there will surely be questions. No, you don't need to use the word metaphor but it would surely be helpful for younger children so see the connection between banned books because of content and this one simply using lime colored books symbolically. Thanks #Familius and #NetGalley for giving me this early peek at a very deserving book. I'll be sharing the info with many.

What Goes on inside a Wolf Pack: Follow the Adventures of a Wolf Family in Yellowstone National Park, by Kathleen Yale, International Wolf Center (afterword), Carrie Shryock (illustrator)

 

Publication Sept. 23, 2025

While I've never been to Yellowstone, I have visited Alaska's Denali Park and can testify that the artist perfectly captured the vastness and grandeur of our wild places. You feel small in such places and, quite frankly, I'm not sure it isn't a reminder we occasionally need of how tiny we are in the grand scope of nature. Toss in that wolves do roam freely in my general area and this book was a natural for me. It follows a pack of wolves from basically the birth of a litter until they're grown and moving out on their own. Even better, we're also introduced to the flora and fauna as well as the other animals that surround the wolves' range.

It's a beautifully done, well thought out book. The artist has painted the vast beauty of the wolves' home largely in soft pastels, some of which almost seem to glow. Based on the many photos and books of Yellowstone that I've seen, it seems to realistically capture the area as well as the playfulness of the pups. I liked that rather then simply black print on white, the information is nicely arranged in various colorful graphs, boxes, and sidebars throughout. It makes it easy to follow, which simply going straight through the account or randomly flipping about and stopping when something catches your eye and, trust me, there's a lot to see. Readers can enjoy trying to spy whatever other things they can see, ranging from bears to lovely flowers and birds.I also appreciated that rather than toss in a plea not to litter, the author went with "a picture is worth a thousand words" mantra, showing wolf pups playing with a plastic bottle, for instance, with items that have been observed as "wolf toys" ranging from plastic water bottles and cans to human clothing items. I should also note that while it's made clear wolves eat prey, it's handled nicely, without dwelling on it. In fact, it uses that moment to subtly show competition among other animals for food and mentions why bears are such voracious eaters. 

Although aimed at independent reading aged children, adults should find this book equally interesting and informative. It would definitely make a lovely gift for animal lovers and a great addition to many teachers' reading/research shelves. The fact that it shows us the full picture, so to speak, covering nearly a year and encompassing other life in the area should make it applicable in different areas. There are some color photos at the end, I should also note, identified with the names rangers/researchers have given that particular wolf and more info on both wolves and ways children can help protect them. There's a map that identifies wolves' general ranges, too. Thanks #StoreyPublishing and #NetGalley for allowing me this early peek at a lovely book focused on an animal that fills me with awe. That said, I had to chuckle this afternoon when, while walking, my not-so-wolfish (though she had a cute howl as a pup) corgi mix demonstrated scent marking for me. Grin. 

Murder Pays a Call, by Nancy J. Cohen

Publication Sept. 9. 2025

Oh, goodie. A new series from a long time favorite author.  Keri Sullivan is a personal concierge. What is a personal concierge, you ask? What's the difference between a personal assistant and concierge? To be simplistic, while a personal assistant usually works for one person, a personal concierge may have many clients. I didn't think to keep track of how many clients Keri and her A Friend in Need Agency have but, well, let's just say a lot, ranging from corporate type groups to senior citizens. Fiona Sullivan is one of her favorite clients, however, one whose contacts have often helped Keri expand her customer list. Keri considers her a friend and mentor. Sadly, while delivering some items to Fiona, whose 80 th birthday party Keri had been hired to plan, she finds her dead. As if that wasn't bad enough, it's soon confirmed that she was murdered. 

That's where the story really takes off. Keri is rather shocked to discover that Fiona wasn't universally liked by all, which includes her family. I won't detail the plot but will say it was fun to see a new sleuth learning as she went along trying to figure out whodunit. Needless to say, she's pushy and not real subtle in her questioning/investigation, and finds herself frequently being told that perhaps she should leave it to the police to solve. I noted that while Detective Jeff Saunders was one of ones most frequently telling her this that he continues to treat her with respect...even when some of her methods were, uh, not exactly on the right side of the legal line. She also involves a couple of her friends, which I found normal in the cozy mystery world although she never once seemed to think about their safety while snooping. True, she was quite protective of Lora, her unexpected house guest with the scary boyfriend, but her meddling there wasn't necessarily helpful, either. I did like Lora who, given her tendency to clean and organize, I rather wished could show up on my own doorstep, and Pam the reporter was rather gutsy, too. And, yes, there are some potential romances drifting about although not with the one most readers might guess. While I'm sure we'll learn more about the regulars as the series continues, the author did a nice job of fleshing them out for us in this initial introduction. 

Bottom line, I enjoyed the story despite rolling my eyes at Keri's rookie sleuth behavior. As her office staff and friends  often told her, she really, really needed to take her own advice and carve out some care time for herself. She's so busy running all over investigating as it is that she even manages to irritate at least one client. True, there were some solid possibilities as suspects but Keri does frequently barge in first and think later. The side story about the naturalist remedies didn't hold my attention and I'm not too sure Keri focused on it much, either. She did discover something most of us will or have discovered, the fact that people aren't always who we think they are. Thanks #NetGalley and #OrangeGrovePress for this early intro to Keri and her team, one I hope to learn more about in future books. Sunny Grove, Florida, sure has its share of secrets, that's for sure. As a former Floridian, this was a bit of a virtual trip home to turf I'm quite familiar with. 

Murder in Paris (Miss Underhay #21), by Helena Dixon

 Publication August 26, 2025

By sheet serendipity, I ran across a video clip of the light-show at the Eiffel Tower for Bastille Day as I was settling down to finish this book. Between the fireworks and twinkling, changing lights on the Tower, it set the perfect reading mood. In this mystery, set in 1937, Kitty and Matt are there to accompany her Gram on a nostalgia trip with a childhood friend, Eliza, and her grandson Julian. Those familiar with the series can surely predict what happens. Yep. You guessed it. A murder. Not only that, but the victim is the model girlfriend of Julian, Simone, and Simon's sister Natalie was found beside her body holding a bloody pair of scissors. So much for Kitty and Matt's hoped for relaxing trip to Paris.

Fortunately for us readers, as they follow the twisty trail of clues, we do get to tag along on several virtual moments as they venture through Paris. For instance, a scenic river cruise and ritzy meal in the Eiffel Tower's towering restaurant. To help place us in time, several references are made about the abdication of the King and Wallis Simpson, not to mention the rise of Coco Chanel as a designer. Very appropriate as the seemingly cut-throat fashion world is front and center throughout. I won't detail the plot but will say that the main characters are well defined, as is Violette, Eliza's pampered poodle. Through it all we get nicely described snippets of the Paris of the time, including during Matt's early morning stroll that showcases the working man ranks that make it all happen. I was glad to see Dixon give a nod to them, I might add. Matt's effort to ensure Kitty gets a very special view of the city was a nice touch and rather makes up for his unavoidable, whirlwind trip home at one point. Long time readers, that was connected to the long-running investigation of his old war buddy Redvers. Nope, not saying any more. I'm just glad that didn't set off more than an uncomfortable dream given his PTSD due to wartime experiences. 

Bottom line, a lively read with interesting characters, a peek into the fashion/design world, and the often complicated human relationships between characters. And, in Kitty's case, a seemingly bottomless supply of croissants. I'm with Matt. How does she stay so slim? There's an emphasis on family and family needs/support, which is always a plus for me, as is the warm, respectful relationship between Kitty and Matt. Lots of secrets and surprises to keep you guessing and, if you're like me, changing your mind about whodunit. Thanks #NetGalley and #Bookouture for making this early peek into the continuing adventures of Kitty and Matt available to me, not to mention the fun virtual trip to 1937 Paris. 

Thanksgiving Puppy Parade, by Lynette Ordonez

 Publication August 26, 2025

Ahhhh, puppies. Absolutely adorable, a word I use entirely too often to describe children's books but, well, PUPPIES! 

What you have here are adorable puppy photos paired with some sort of fall or Thanksgiving saying, many of which involved cute doggie related puns. As someone whose favorite season is fall, the use of such lovely autumn photos for many was a bonus. Lots of different breeds, all adorable (hey, if I'm going to overuse a term, might as well enjoy it) and looking like they could spring off the page for cuddles. The author did an excellent job matching photos and sayings, too, and you'll enjoy the expressions on the varous puppy faces. True, there's no real story here but, hey, who needs a story when you're bombarded with such adorable puppy faces? 

On the serious side, it'd be fun to see what photos children might come up with to match similar fall related comments. Or drawings to match these various sayings or sayings they themselves come up with. A great way to intro children to puns, too. My hunch is adults will enjoy these puppy faces as much as I did, too, so it's a win-win for both child and parent. Thanks #NetGalley and #TeacherCreatedMaterials for allowing me this early peek at this, you know what adjective is coming, adorable photo book. It'd make a lovely gift or addition to any dog lover's shelf.

The Mistletoe Murder Club (The Bad Girls Detective Agency Book 4), by Katie Marsh

 

Publication Sept. 5, 2025

I think I chuckled my sleuthing cap loose a few times reading. This one was a roller coaster ride with a few wild loopity-loops tossed in for good measure. This was my intro to the series and what an intro it was. Just plain fun. Beyond quirky actors, a rickety old theatre that seems to be held together as much by grime as anything, complete with a malfunctioning trapdoor and, yikes, stage lights falling from the ceiling. To top it all off, the cast members, who weirdly seem to be both hopeful and reluctant to be there, all seem to hate the director, Dame Beatrice Butler, for whom the theatre is named. Clio Lawrence is one of them. A former actress, she's now a struggling detective with her two besties, Amber and Jeanie, in the Bad Girls Detective Agency. It's her latter title that comes in handy as, not really a surprise, Beatrice is found in her dressing room murdered on opening night. 

 What follows isn't exactly your typical murder investigation. It somehow manages to mix murder, chaos, and humor, not to mention the endearing friendship of the three friends. I'll leave it to you to discover why Amber winds up in a cow outfit. Yes. Cow. In the meantime, Jeanie is somehow short a few pieces of clothing while pursuing her twins, twins that could easily be nicknamed Mayhem and Chaos, through the theatre and falling through a trapdoor while pursuing clues. And, that just the beginning. I'm not going to detail the plot further, but there's rarely a slow, let alone dull moment. Through it all, we get to know the characters well, even the ones that, quite frankly, aren't particularly likable. You'll even learn what a very British pantomime is, not to mention why the cast seems to so hate Beatrice, who you'll follow along on her last day. What was she up to? Nope, not telling. And....so much more. Seriously, I've barely ventured beyond the opening act here (the books chapters are set up in acts, so to speak).

Bottom line, thoroughly enjoyed this oh, so clever murder mystery. The characters come across as real people, the sort you might run into at the grocery, or more likely be run into by the twins if the twins are involved. There's even an unlikely romance, not to mention the usual twist and turns as you come to enjoy being with them all, even those wild child twins. You'll learn why they're so very, very special to Jeanie, too. Bottom line, the three Bad Girl Detectives have each other's back and are willing to take chances to protect each other, and ultimately find whodunit. Lots of Christmas-y references, too, including the reason for the title. In other words, you've got a layered plot that will keep you chuckling and guessing until the end. No, I didn't quite figure it out although it made all the sense in the end. So, kick back, be prepared for a wild ride with a visit to a lovely pub or two, some goofy friends you'll like, and lots of backstage drama, both past and present. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for introducing me to this fun team of women with this early peek at this book. I will definitely be on the lookout for the next in this series. There are surely many, many more secrets to be discovered in this quaint village. 

A Very Merry Murder: The Malvern Mysteries, Book, by Kate Wells

 

Publication Sept. 3, 2025

Buckle up your seat belts. This one takes you on quite the rollercoaster ride. Not only is there a murder and long list of suspects but, well, there's a question about who was really the intended target. This was my first read of this series but it won't be my last. Jude Gray's farm has been selected as the site for a filmed Christmas special. Unfortunately, Jude is beginning to wonder if that was a good thing or bad. Sure, she likes the money she'll earn but, well, maybe she should have read the contract more closely. Even worse, the producer is arrogant and way too handy with his hands if you get my drift. Then there's a near disaster, closely followed by a murder. And that's just the beginning.

I won't detail the plot other than to say it moves along at a steady pace and is full of surprises, twists, and turns. The regulars are quite likable and even the pertinent film crew is nicely fleshed out. Note that I said fleshed out, not necessarily likable. Besides the heartless producer, there is a storm brewing amongst the crew and the outcome isn't good. Any of them or all might have a motive for murder. watching Jude and friends sort it all out is fun. Well, maybe I should say interesting as I'm sure Jude wouldn't consider it fun. She also has her animals to deal with. We even get a bit of their personalities. Rodney Trotter emerged as my favorite critter, gotta admit, though the ducks aren't really good at getting in a row. 

Bottom line, I'm definitely hooked. I enjoyed the characters, with Grannie Margot, who seems to run the senior center and has a sharp analytical mind, probably being my favorite. Also, young Sebbie, who delighted in the odd places Jude hid his elf leading up to Christmas, not to mention springing it on his mother the morning of the school's holiday play that he needs a costume for it. Does that sound familiar to any parents out there? Jude's bubbling under the surface attraction to Marco is fun to watch play out, too, especially since Clara, his current girlfriend, is a friend. Who said living in a small town was simple. Kudos to Jude, btw, for sharing info she stumbles across quickly with detective friend Binnie, who is on desk assignment due to a prior incident.  Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for intriducing me to them all with this early peek at the current goings on. I'll definitely be catching up with the series. I thoroughly enjoyed it and, hey, we got to pet some fun animals and even take a tractor ride. Grin. 

Ask Scarlett: Can Being Outside Help Me De-Stress? And More Questions about Nature and You, by Rebecca Baines

 

Publication August 5, 2025

Full of fascinating tidbits and information.While designed for younger readers, I feel we older ones might just as easily enjoy and learn from it.  Not only is the information, which ranges from weather, both normal and extreme, to animals (even the mole rat gets space), houseplants, how pets may help out health, as well as headaches, foods, and more. Seriously, it's all tied neatly to the outdoors. I liked that though they frequently pointed out that there was scientific info to back up their statements that they didn't go into minute details in the text. The kept it simple and easy to digest and understand. There is a resource list at the end for those desiring to do a deeper dive, plus a glossary of terms and a quite extensive index to make it easier to find particular topics of interest. 

The book is illustrated with both cartoon like images, ie Scarlett, and photos which are credited at the end. Young readers should find them interesting and even charming, at least I did. There are even some crafty projects suggested with instructions at some points which will add to the fun. Bottom line, quite informative in a fun, easily read manner, and full of fun, colorful pictures. Thanks #AmericanPhychologicalAssociation for sharing this early look at a book that I highly recommend to both teachers and adults with curious, inquisitive children. Another plus is that while I ultimately read straight through, one can browse randomly or use the various guides to find desired info. Seriously, teacher friends and outdoor lovers, add this one to your bookshelves to share. 

The Sisterhood (Lady Emily, #19), by Tasha Alexander

 

Publication Sept. 23, 2025

This was my first read of this apparently long running series. That said, while it ultimately worked as a stand-alone, I felt like I would have known the two leading characters far better had I read earlier books.  Bad me. I enjoyed the main characters, well, most of them, and always love my virtual visits to Edwardian England, even if the status conscious nobility frequently annoys me. All that aside, I don't think this was the book for me as the alternating timelines kept throwing off my focus. Honestly, being new to the series, I had no clue why we were suddenly back in AD 60 when a murder had just taken place in 1907, England. Although it ultimately made sense, I obviously need to shy away from books with this trait as it really broke my concentration and, quite frankly, frustrated my "I wanna know who did it!" fixation. Some readers won't be bothered by this at all, of course, making the book a 4/5 star for them, though for me it kept it at a 3.5 rounded to a 4 star.

As noted, I did wind up quite enjoying meeting Lady Emily and her husband Colin Hargreaves. While the book didn't focus much on their relationship, it appears an excellent one, with lots of understanding, patience, and support. There's even some humor. I applaud Colin for not simply strangling her snobby, very annoying mother. Let's just say, even while understanding Edwardian society pressures and its expectations, she got on my last nerve. I do wish I knew more about Colin's ties to the king, however, so I'm going to have to do some catch up reading. My other favorite character was Sebastian, ironically a thief, albeit a charming, devilishly one. He seems to go way, way back with Emily, claiming an undying love, a relationship that, again, I need to sort out. He may be a thief, but he's charming and I have to admit, I sort of enjoyed his tweaking of the system and readily being willing to share the weak points he utilized in his thefts with Emily and Colin.

As for the murder, it happens early on. I was actually rather taken with the victim, so a bit disappointed to see them killed off so soon. The final reveal was actually rather shocking but made sense based on all we see and learn. And, no, I didn't guess it early though the clues were certainly there. The 60 AD story threw my sleuthing game off. Yeah, that's my excuse. Oddly enough, I think I'd have found that story line intriguing on its own given my own history buff tendencies and the role of horses in Vatta's life. I did know the gist of the story of the ancient warrior woman, Boudica, so it was interesting to read more about that era, confused as it left me initially about its connections to the 1907 mystery. And, the title will make sense to you as being symbolic as the story progresses. You'll also be reminded that being popular isn't the same as being liked. 

Bottom line, while not quite the book for me, it intrigued me enough to have put a couple of the author's past books on hold at the library. I liked the relationship between Emily and Colin, especially in comparison to some of those surrounding them, and want to know more. Thanks #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for sharing this with me and letting me know what I've been missing.  

Edam and Weep, by Linda Reilly

 

Publication July 22, 2025

Character driven, this was a fun read. Carly Hale is beyond busy planning for her upcoming wedding when not only does she still volunteer to take part in the fundraiser rather than take the easy way out and just donate, but husband-to-be Ari's sister Leslie arrives unexpectedly with her niece Quinn. It's explained in the story so let's just say that Leslie hopes to adopt Quinn but there are complications. Speaking of complications, having her mother become a suspect in a murder definitely complicates things. 

I don't want to give away much of the plot, it's a solid, intriguing one with lots of twists and turns and revelations that will keep you reading. The murder of the rude, unfriendly, and demanding Brice Keaton after the local high school's fund-raising event was a shocker. Even worst, her mother was caught on video telling him off due to his behavior and, worse, the murder weapon seems to have been a scarf that was part of her fifties related costume for the event . That's makes her a suspect since the video went viral online. No shock that Carly is drawn into investigating, even if she does swear to Ari that she's going to limit herself to internet searches. We all know that promise was going to be quickly broken. At the same time, Carly is dealing with Leslie's sudden arrival and situation. That Carly's dog Havarti immediately takes to Quinn and vice versa is both a plus and minus, of course, but it does help endear Quinn and the situation she's caught in with her Aunt Leslie to us. Actually, we learn enough about Brice, the victim, to even have some sympathy to him despite his entitled and rude behavior at the fund-raiser. 

Bottom line, a  relatively quick read with characters who seem like they could be our own neighbors or family. I wasn't crazy about mother Rhonda's initial attorney but overall even he wasn't a problem, just an odd distraction. Carly and Ari are a solid, loving couple and Carly's workers at the grilled cheese specialty shop are all quite likable. I was glad to catch up with Grant, the cello artist who has given up music school to train as a chef. He's got to be one of the great guys of the world to work his now regular job but still jump back into working at Carly's shop to free her up for, well, everything. As noted earlier, you just knew she wasn't going to be satisfied just doing internet searching. And, hey, long time readers, you're going to learn why Don won't eat grilled cheese sandwiches! Thanks #BeyondThePagePublishing for this early peek at Carly's hectic life. Loved the ending and that thoughtful gesture made. I liked the author's dedicating this to animal rescuers everywhere.

Woody's Words: Woodrow Wilson Rawls and Where the Red Fern Grows, by Lisa Jean LaBanca Rogers , Susan Reagan (illustrator)

 

Publication Sept. 9, 2025

It's been awhile since I last read "Where the Red Fern Grows" but it still makes me smile when I remember it. Smile and feel the urge to reach for a box of tissues. That said, I must admit to knowing next-to-nothing about author Woodrow Wilson Rawls prior to reading this book. I'm now feeling the urge to dig out my old copy of the story (with some tissues handy) as I read it again with fresh eyes and more knowledge about how it came to be. 

Whether you've read "Red Fern" or not, I don't want to divulge too much of this book about it's author. Teacher friends, it should be a must. Same with dog fanatics everywhere.  A thoughtful, insightful look into what made Rawls a writer. It wasn't an easy life. In fact, he spent some time in jail but it ultimately sounds like wife Sophie was his savior and inspiration. A budget analyst for the Atomic Energy Commission, she was not just his biggest booster but typist, proofreaders, editor, and, well, much more. 

Rawls beloved dog book was first published in the highly regarded Saturday Evening Post before appearing in full book form. While barely educated himself, Rawls, a true story-teller, made thousands of promotional appearances, frequently at schools in front of children. It sounds like their words of appreciation only fueled his drive to write. Is the story 100% true? You'll have to read the book to find out. You won't regret it. While aimed at children from 7-10, my hunch is dog and book people of all ages will find it a good read. There's a lengthy bibliography at the end for those who want to take a deeper dive as well as, in addition to the illustrations, both b/w and color photographs. It was a plus to note the contributions of family members. Thanks #AstraPublishingGroup for allowing me this early peek at this intriguing, delightful story. It brought back many memories and I loved the inclusion of a photo of the statue of the book's Billy Coleman and his hounds that stands at the Idaho Falls Public Library. 

Death at the Village Christmas Fair (The Cotswold Curiosity Shop #3), by Debbie Young

 Publication August 16, 20

This was my first read of this series so I can vouch that it works well as a stand alone. Alice Carroll is preparing for her first Christmas in her new home, a celebration that includes not just the traditional Christmas Fair but a Santa Run. Her mother is visiting and Alice is looking forward to a peaceful holiday celebration with her relatively new beau, Robert who, as we find out, has money. Lots of it. That's beside the point, however, as he's genuinely likable and low key about his status. To be honest, though, Alice can't help but be a bit subdued by his wealth as, well, what do you buy someone who has the money to buy about anything he wants. She's also a tad uncertain about her status but they do seem to work well together, especially when it comes to sorting out whodunit in a murder.

So, who killed Clive and why? Strangled with a scarf stolen from the booth owned by Alice's mother, Alice is naturally interested. I won't spoil the plot any further except to say there's an interesting twist to the crime. If you don't know what Netsuke is, you will by the time you finish this book. It was rather fun to learn a bit about this art form as well as some aspects of museum collecting and investments/sponsors. I liked the cast if characters and you'll easily figure out who is who and the relationships they have with each other. Some are rather naive, even Alice at times, but they come across as good people that are easy to root for. Robert's granddaughter, Tilly, was a standout, and I'm guessing that Alice's mother may be sticking around based on her so easily fitting into the knitting community. She's one fast knitter, too. The village of Little Pride might be said to play a role, too,  with both positives and negatives.

Bottom line, while somewhat slow in pace, I wound up enjoying the book. The characters are a real plus with them seeming to be real people prone to think the best of others. And, of course, there's that blossoming romance between Alice and Robert. Thanks #BoldwoodBooks for giving me this early peek at Alice's world and the doings of Little Pride. It was fun to imagine the Santa Race, especially the slower paced, not so athletic ones, and loved the giving spirit of the community, and the mention of Paddington Bear and toggle buttons was a bonus. Made me remember my grandmother's button jar.