Old Girls Behaving Badly, by Kate Galley

 Publication May 13, 2024

Delightful. I wasn't quite sure what to expect from this story, expecting a bit of a mad-cap adventure story involving two older women, which sounded like fun, but it was that and much more. It's probably fair to say it edged into cozy mystery territory. Neither 89-year old Dorothy nor 71-year old Gina have had an easy time of it of late. Dorothy has a plan, however, but needs someone to help her execute it. When she discovers Gina's background in art, she feels sure Gina is the one. Gina's husband of 43 years recently left her to find himself, whatever that meant, and they needed to sell their family home, leaving Gina to find another home. Still reeling, Gina takes a one week job as companion to Dorothy and that is when the fun begins. The author does an excellent job of painting a picture of the setting and lovely homes, making me almost wish I could visit. The boat house you'll hear more about also sounds absolutely perfect.

I won't detail the plot, read the blurb, but will say that I liked both Dorothy and Gina a great deal. Both have their moments, Gina usually underestimating herself while Dorothy's tendency to blurt things better left unsaid out adds to the human side of them. We alternate their viewpoints, btw, adding to our understanding of what is going on in their minds as needed. Dorothy isn't over her husband's tragic death and blames... well, I'll leave you to find out when you read .... and seems simply incapable of letting it go and moving on. She's financially solid, even well off, offering Gina not just a job but stability and a safe place. Both become a force to deal with in their own ways, especially when joined by a younger wannabe sleuth, granddaughter Juliet. You'll meet the rest of the family, too, but those are the standouts. The mystery of the missing painting and the strange family dynamics are intriguing, I must admit. Most importantly, Dorothy and Gina remind us to live our lives without being forced into a stereotyped age-appropriate lifestyle. I'm hoping this is to become a series. I'm not done hanging out with Dorothy and Gina yet and, hmm, Erik? 

Bottom line, a fun, thoroughly enjoyable read with a strong character focus, interesting situations, a lovely setting, and message of living our best lives, no matter our age. Thank you #NetGalley and #BoldwoodBooks for introducing me to Dorothy and Gina. I'm hoping there will be more chances to hang out with them, say in France? I mean, what sort of mischief can two ol' ladies get up to in France, especially simply with Gina doing a good deed for Dorothy?

Frances Perkins: Champion of American Worker, by Ruth Cashin Monsell

 

Publication April 16, 2024

The more you know, the more you realize what you don't know. 

Wow. I thought I had a pretty good grasp of who Frances Perkins was and her vital role in FDR's term. I was wrong. Well, not about what I knew of her from the Franklin Roosevelt presidential term. I had the basics of that, at least. I just didn't know the backstory, not only of all she accomplished there but how she got there in the first place. This book does a marvelous job of not only filling up that void in my knowledge bank but reminding me what the times she lived and diligently worked through for progress were really like. Born in 1880, in Boston, she grew up during a time when women's roles were trivialized and often discounted.

I won't detail her work, it's too vast and one bit builds on another, so trying to summarize it would not give it the due justice it deserves. Even her family members served a purpose in preparing her for dealing with frustration and outrage. Her younger sister threw uncontrolled temper tantrums and her grandmother. who urged her to develop her voice and learn to project, were all part of what made up Frances Perkins. All skills she utilized against an often male dominated world as she worked. Her parents promoted true discussions at meals, respecting and encouraging her to speak and help others less fortunate. She attended college at a time most women were usually encouraged to marry and have children. Shr became a fan of Theodore Roosevelt. Her parents were Republicans, btw. She later became a Democrat because she felt that party seemed more committed to helping resolve the problems of the poor and disadvantaged. Her first impression of the pre-polio FDR was that he was arrogant, however. She witnessed the Triangle Shirtwaist factory fire but it only served to make her more determined to not just help but convince those in power to help. And, I've barely skimmed the surface of her life experiences and how they formed her lifelong determination to do all she could to help others. I could go on for pages.

I'll note that all this happened long before she worked with/for FDR, a period also covered in depth in the book. Seriously, her resume is long with lots of schooling, a rarity for women of that time, and her courage impressive. I will note, since I didn't know, she did marry and also dealt with a husband who eventually seemed to suffer from what we'd call bipolar disease....all while still working for all mankind. She suffered a miscarriage and had a child die at birth basically before having a daughter who survived. The stories shared are interesting and, quite frankly, often made me fume at the injustices. What a legacy this women left, not just for women but for everyone. I am so glad I got to know her better via this book and thank #NetGalley and #IndependentPublishersGroup for making this book available to me. It was an eye-opener and all interested in where we came from and where we want to go should give it a read. I doubt you'll come away untouched. One can only wonder how she'd deal with modern political landscapes.

Dog Day Afternoon (Andy Carpenter #29), by David Rosenfelt

 

Publication July 2, 2024

It seems like only yesterday I picked up a copy of an interesting looking mystery with an adorable dog on the cover. It was by David Rosenfelt and I've been an avid fan ever since. As such, I am always waiting somewhat impatiently for the next-in-the-series and this one was not a disappointment. The usual cast of characters, not to mention dogs with unique personalities that I've grown to love like my own, and another unwanted case for reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter.

Andy has always seemed to be trying to retire ever since I met him. He's lucky enough to be independently wealthy, so working isn't a necessity. So, what can make him change his mind? A case involving not just a dog but a friend or, in this case, a friend of a friend. Most surprisingly, it's Marcus who comes asking a favor. Marcus, who's a bit of a Superman in my mind, has saved Andy's life countless times but never asked for anything. We're about to learn more about Marcus the man, not the Superman who can toss huge bodies around like pieces of fluff, fly planes, and practically dodge bullets, wants Andy to defend a young man he's taken under his wing. More on that in the story. The topping is that although Andy isn't quite sure Nick is innocent, all the evidence points at him, Nick just adopted a dog from Andy's beloved Tara Foundation. See, I told you a dog would be involved.

I'm not going to detail the plot, it's too much fun to ruin for you. I will note that the usual cast of characters, from ex-cop Laurie and their dogs, to the rest of the K-Team, an investigative team that is intriguing enough to have earned their own series. Marcus is, of course, a member of that team but Sam, the perpetual wannabe tough street sleuth who is actually far, far more helpful with computers than brawn, is a favorite. Did I mention he can probably hack into anything? True, it might take awhile and he does have help, a group of senior citizens who are no slouches themselves. In fact, they are very helpful this go-round. Andy's regular walks with Tara, the most perfect dog ever, are always both amusing and enlightening, not to mention this is usually where we get to see the various dog personalities emerge. One sort of twist, and there are many, many twists to this case, is that rather than Andy's usual at odds relationship with the opposing attorney, this time its an old friend. That provides a bit of a twist to the courtroom scenes but, never fear, snarky, smart-mouthed Andy is definitely still with us. 

Bottom line, wonderful characters, dogs, tricky, twisty opponents and potential witnesses that seem to have a habit of getting themselves killed, not to mention Marcus in Superman form, and, oh, so much more. I came for the dogs, loved the humor, was pulled in by the writing and my own curious nature as to how Rosenfelt, who is not a lawyer, can keep doing these amazing (and humorous but deathly serious) legal drama-comedies. I still don't know and, quite frankly, rarely have any firm idea who did it until the final review but I keep coming back. If all the evidence is stacked against you, down to eye-witnesses at the site of the crime, you'd want Andy for your lawyer. I also imagine any defense lawyer would wish for an investigative bunch like the K-Team, although I doubt they'd want to be as close to being killed as many times as Andy seems to be. Thanks so much #NetGalley and #StMartin'sPress - #MinotaurBooks for allowing me this peek into Andy's latest unwanted case. And, wow, what an ending.

Taylor Swift(Little People, BIG DREAMS), by, Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Borghild Fallberg (Illustrator)

 

Publication June 11, 2024

Since even I, as one who was a late-comer to the Swifties countless, learned a few things from this, I'm sure young readers, the target audience, will, too. Since other reviews seem to expound on their connection to Swift, I'll stick to my take on the book. I liked it. I have thoroughly enjoyed anything I've read from the Little People, Big Dreams shelf and this was no exception. While adults or more savvy fans will surely wish it went into more detail, it does a great job of giving an overview of where Swift came from and her rise. More importantly, it gives insight into how she fosters the connection she has with her fans. 

That illustrations are lovely, showing her as a child on her family's Christmas tree farm and later in concert. There's a young, innocent look to her in the pictures and, parents, never fear, the book doesn't touch on her romantic life or really even most of the spotlight and hassles she's faced as an adult artist. Instead, while noting that she was often laughed at in school because of her obsession with country music and wearing her cowboy boots to school, the focus is on her drive to succeed. Her parent's support and love is also noted, a reminder that being a musician doesn't mean one must rebel against parental figures, though that was my take, not really an intent of the book. It also notes she didn't just trust to blind luck. She worked for it, taking lessons in singing and even acting rather than just relying on innate talent. 

Bottom line, a respectful, sweet look at the now mega-star Taylor Swift when she was just another "little people" with "big dreams". Thanks #NetGalley and #QuartoPublishingGroup - #FrancesLincolnChildren'sBooks for sharing this look at an artist I may have been late discovering but have come to admire greatly.

A Love Letter to My Library, by Lisa Katzenberger, Rob Sayegh, Jr. (Illustrator)

 

Publication June 4, 2024

This book is exactly what the title says it is, a love letter to the library. It celebrates all the reasons we love libraries, from the perfect books just for us to story telling and even arts and crafts, not to mention cozy spots to curl up and read. The characters shown are diverse, including wheelchair characters (and ramps), and show both children and adults. While some of the adults pictured seem to be parents to the children seen, I liked that some were simply there, reminding us that the library is for everyone. There's even a giant "Welcome" sign using not only a heart for the "o" but on a rainbow of colors. Lovely, as are the shelves depicted full of books and more books, as well as computers to connect us to the world and others. 

Although there is no real story, simply a recollection of what we can find/do in the library, the book works well. I liked the diversity, shown rather than told, I'll note, and am now jealous that my library doesn't have a fish tank. Thanks #NetGalley and #SourcebooksKids - #SourcebooksExplore for this lovely tribute to one of my favorite places on earth, the library. One of the first things I did when I moved here was go get a library card, I must admit.

There Was Nothing You Could Do: Bruce Springsteen’s “Born In The U.S.A.” and the End of the Heartland, by Steven Hyden

 

Publication May 28, 2024

My reactions to this book were all over the place. That's not a criticism. That's also the way Springsteen himself seemed to approach his rise and myth like status. I've read his autobiography, so many of the personal details discussed, such as his relationship with his father, were not a surprise to me. What did come as a surprise, while not all that surprising, if that makes sense, is the general air of unease for lack of a better word that Hyden credits to him in this book. He wanted more, got what he wanted, then struggled to deal with the adoration and bigger than life image that became "The Boss". Like us, Springsteen emerges as a mere human, full of hopes and dreams but also the ability to make decisions that impacted many directly, such as the members of the E Street Band, and more indirectly and uncontrollable, those of us who listened to his music. While a fan, I have certainly never been an avid, obsessed with his music type fan, so I have to admit to not being aware of many of the more minute references author Hyden makes to songs, relationships, and the behind the scenes stories. 

All that said, this was an absolutely fascinating read. While not a biography, it touches on just about every aspect of his life, including his family and close friendships. It doesn't dwell on any of those, however, simply using them as a springboard to dive into how they impacted his writings and actions. It's more of an effort to discuss why he made "Born in The USA" and it's impact on not just his audience but him, as well as those about him and its misinterpretations. While the author is obviously a genuine, long-time fan, he does manage not to slip too far into "fanboy" mode, to his credit. He can criticize as well as offer his own musings as to "what if" Springsteen had done this or that, or not done this or that. Other artists slip into and out of the narrative, from early influences to the likes of Elvis and Dylan, as well as comparing other artists of the same type towards the end. Even Taylor Swift gets a mention, albeit this seems to have largely been written before she became the almost mythical "Taylor Swift" that she is today. There is also political talk, be forewarned, but it's a respectful tone, And, oh, so much more. Heck, even Ticketmaster and how concert ticket prices gets discussed. 

There is absolutely no way I can competently discuss everything that is covered. I'm neither a musical critic/historian or enough of a student of all things Springsteen to be worthy of trying, but fans and even those simply interested in the music and times will find much to ponder within. Hyden writes well, in a very readable fashion, which is plus given the wealth of info covered. I highly recommend this to not just Springsteen fans but all those who wish they knew more about how songs are conceived and brought to a potential audience and the rarely covered aspect of its potential impact on the artist. That both the artist and audience may grow and change is part of this and how his success changed and molded the Bruce Springsteen we see and hear today intrigued me. Thanks #NetGalley and #HatchetteBooks for allowing me this look at Hyden's take on this phenomenon. The title speaks volumes.

June Moon: A Board Book Lynn Becker, Nate Carvalho (Illustrator)

 

Publication May 21, 2024

Lyrical and sweetly dreamy, this one takes us through a child's day in a fun way. There are lots of little touches throughout within the pictures that add to the atmosphere without being disruptive. Let's face it, the goal is to lull a child into dreamland. My favorite was the parrot on the Pirate Moon pages.  The moon has a cloud teddy, too, at one point so look for it. Grin.

While I'd wish for more of a story, this one was cute and has the nice lyrical repetition that helps lull children to sleep. There's an emphasis on routine, too, as we see the child initially at play, then things slow as the day wanes and bedtime approaches. The colors are largely pastels and at one point the sky seems to even be swirling in the distance, a nice touch. The word choice is simple with repetition, ie nothing jarring to jolt one out of a sleepy mode. There's some whimsy to the story which, again, I wish had been a bit more substantial. The ending seemed abrupt, too, though maybe that was just me. Don't get me wrong, it's a cute book, just not quite what I expected. Much of the humor, which is always a bit plus to me, was conveyed in the illustrations, I'll note. Still, for younger children, this book should be a nice touch, with soft colors and lyrical repetition to help them drift off to sleep after their bedtime routine.  Thanks #NetGalley and #Familius for sharing this sneak peek with me. Made me feel like summer was here.

Nour's Secret Library, by Wafa' Tarnowska, Vali Mintzi (Illustrator)

 

Inspired by a true story and dedicated to all children of war, this short book carries a powerful message. Sadly, it's a message as relevant today as it was when it was released in 2022. We get a brief look at Nour's pre-war life, one of family and fun...and books. She and her cousin Amir loved reading detective and mystery stories and dreamed of creating a sort of secret society. They day their friends were to meet to begin this adventure, however, an all-too-real adventure begins. Bombs start falling and the families are forced to flee to a basement for safety. The illustrations, which begin with light, warm, earth colors of sunshine and blue skies soon darkens, with black and dark depictions of the destruction about their once beautiful town. In the basement, however, amazing things are happening. Nour and Amir are building a soon not-so-secret library from books found blown into the streets by the force of the bombings or discarded in the rush to safety. This is their story, one of both the power of books and the hope for a better tomorrow for Nour and Amir and all those who live there. 

Sadly, we know peace didn't come to the Middle East. Just as the lives of Nour and Amir were upended, bombs fall throughout the world disrupting, ending, and changing the lives of many, both adults and children. The uncertainty of war is depicted, as is the human need to find solace, a safe spot, so to speak, in books. I recall as meme I saw recently that said basically that reading is the means to travel to wondrous places while being unable to leave your home or, in this case, safe spot. This book showcases that hope, so while very clear in its depiction of how war changed lives, it also shows how the human spirit can rise above it all. How, in the midst of war, something beautiful, the library shared by so many, can be created. The often dream like illustrations add greatly to the story and despite the warfare, no lives being lost are mentioned. This is, after all, a story for children and what books can do for them, not destruction.

Bottom line, while the location has changed, this book would be an excellent introduction to children of how others have coped. Books are obviously the central element but the togetherness and cooperation of those trapped in an otherwise desolate area are also themes that can be emphasized. The comparison of this war, in Syria, and current wars, who knows which or how many by the time this review hits print, can also be a strong teaching tool. The author and illustrator both supply short bios, so to speak, that show the relevance to their lives. There is also a glossary and timeline of both history and the libraries down through the area, a reminder that there are consistent elements in people's lives everywhere. My sincere thanks to #NetGalley and #BarefootBooks for bringing this book to my attention. Books are powerful.

A Limited Edition Murder (Beyond the Page Bookstore Mystery, #10), by Lauren Elliott

 

Publication May 21, 2024

Addie's temporary move to England has been restorative but hardly uneventful. She's enjoying her time working for Reginald Pressman, of course, at the Second Chance Books and Bindery shop in West Yorkshire. She's made friends and is feeling comfortable there. Yet, she's also fretting about her decision to return home and her own bookshop, Beyond the Page Books. That hasn't been an easy decision for her. She's a bit of a mother hen type and can't help worrying about Jasper's hopeless crush on Hillary, who is set to marry Addie's successful author friend Tony soon. Then there's a growing worry about Reginald's health and finances. Are his rare book buying sprees putting him in financial trouble? There's also the worry hanging over her that while she thinks she's recovered from the shock of discovering only moments before she said "I do" to Simon that he had a child and then felt responsible for trying to help the mother and maybe make a life with her for the child. Addie flew off to England to mend her broken heart and sort out where she was going from there. 

But, sometimes you can't shake ol' habits. Like stumbling over dead bodies. That's when her planned return to the States takes a backseat to her best laid plans. Toss in the little matter of the valuable necklace that has gone missing and a stolen book and, well, it gets complicated. And, that's just the modern day mystery. She's also caught up in trying to help Reginald Pressman find out what happened to his much loved daughter Molly so many years ago. And, whoa, there's a missing necklace involved there, too? And, double whoa, more missing books, lives upended, and family secrets buried deep. Lauren Elliott is a master at creating characters who we will like and find realistic and empathize with. Hearts broken and maybe mended, emotional moments, and friendships, new and old. It's all there, plus, hmm, a very intriguing potential romance....but, Addie's plan is to return home. Isn't it? Maybe....

Bottom line, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I've enjoyed Addie from the beginning and while I thought I'd have trouble embracing her life in England, I felt just as at home with her new surroundings and friends as back home. Now, true, the brief visit by Serena and Paige helped but, hey, Noah Parker was far more interesting. Grin. That's all the hints I'm giving. You won't regret reading this book, not to mention the entire series. I'm psyched to find out where Addie goes, both physically and emotionally, from here. She's had a rough road in the past but, hmm, her like-a-brother love for Marc may have met its romantic British match, so to speak. Thanks #NetGalley and #KensingtonPublishing - -#KensingtonCozies for giving me an early peek at Addie's current world and letting me meet all her new friends. What can I say? I'm a sucker for cozies set in England, especially when books and more books are involved.

Murder Sundae (Blue Lake Cozy Murder Mysteries #4), by Hadley K. Knox

 

Former NYPD forensics expert Celia Strong and her daughter, Katie, moved to Blue Lake for a slower, more peaceful life. Although this was my first read of this series, it doesn't sound like those aspects have quite worked out yet. She is, however, fitting in after about a year and has made new friends and even managed to be accepted by the local police. That's a nice change from the usual adversarial tone of many cozies where the police/detectives shove aside amateur sleuths, no matter how talented they are at ferreting out clues. In this case, after being recommended for what is basically a private investigative job by the local deputy (the sheriff is out of town), she finds herself also involved in deciphering a murder. 

The book opens with a newsletter type chapter, detailing not only the events upcoming but some of the news about local residents, including Celia and Katie. We also get a peek into Katie's diary, detailing her being cast as Maria in the school's upcoming play, "Sound of Music". This diary entry is a wonderful bit of insight into Katie. As the actual story opens, Celia is approached by Lottie Porter who wants her to find out what happened to the body of, let's see if I remember correctly, her great-grandmother's sister. I think. Celia will have the help of the local historical group for this task, whose characters we get to know. New read for me or not, I pretty quickly sorted out who was who and the connections, so it worked as a stand-alone. 

As for the actual murder, that was a tricky one. It takes awhile for the method to even be sorted out for sure. As noted, I didn't find myself quite as caught up in this case as the one of the missing body, but it was interesting to see how Celia, with the help of friends (and her daughter), works through the evidence using her own knowledge and what they find. I'm not going to detail either case further, including how they are connected....or are they?.... but after a bit of adjustment to the time travel, so to speak, regarding the empty casket case, as well as the varying advantage points, it was an interesting read. A somewhat slow start, true, but other than that and my own wish that I'd read the previous books simply because I was curious, not because something was lacking, it was a fun read. I liked Celia and the cast and will definitely be catching up with their past while looking forward to her next venture into investigation. Thanks #NetGalley and #StolenKeyPress for introducing me to Blue Lake and Celia. And, oh, readers, did I mention that there's actually a third, seemingly ongoing mystery: What's the story behind the murder of Celia's undercover cop husband? Yep, definitely lots to look forward to.