The Mango Murders (A Key West Food Critic Mystery, #15), by Lucy Burdette

 

Publication August 12, 2025

As a former Floridian, I'm always happy to take a food oriented virtual trip to Key West to hang out with Hayley and her usual friends and family. Lots of family this go-round, The author always does an excellent job capturing the atmosphere of Key West. She even tosses in historic bits here and there and, no, it isn't all Hemingway related. I even found myself doing a silent "I know that name!" at the mention of Henry Flagler. Not only was he behind the building of Casa Marina in the Keys but his name was given to a building on my own college campus (not South Florida), so a nice connection. 

In any case, on to the story. It's a twisty, tricky one with lots of red herrings to send us amateur sleuths off on tangents. Who blew up not only the party boat Hayley and some family members were one, not to mention many of the movers and shakers of the town, but maybe themself in the process? Things are further complicated when the sole victim isn't quickly and easily identified.  Was it the culprit or some innocent bystander in the wrong place at the wrong time. I mean, Hayley and the rest had to be rescued out of the water. Or, perhaps it was genuinely a tragic accident? Needless to say, Hayley and husband Nathan, police investigator, don't have any quick, easy answers. In fact, Hayley's snooping, er, asking of questions and Nathan's typical police caution to stay out of it, seem to be creating tensions beyond the norm. Uh, oh. 

Toss in family on all sides arriving for the big party planned for Hayley and Nathan's beloved neighbor Gloria and there is a great deal going on. Gloria's family is, let's just say, worried and some are determined she be placed in senior housing despite her protests. Oddly enough, despite my annoyance with them, I found myself at least understanding them as well as liking the usual characters. Lots going on in the background that slowly emerges, too, involving the inevitable conflict between those who want Key West tor remain just as it is and those who want to develop the area, often at the expense of smaller housing areas. Key West is usually seen as a bit of a party town, okay, forget the bit and think Jimmy Buffet party-time, but the struggle between image and reality is just as real there as it is everywhere. Thanks #NetGalley and #CrookedLaneBooks for allowing me once again to take an early virtual peek at life in the Keys and catch up with everyone. Can't wait to see what happens in the next book based on possibilities emerging at the end.

For Duck's Sake, by Donna Andrews

 

Publication August 5, 2025

First, an admission. This is one of those books I'll grab to read based entirely on the author's name. Well, that and the always cute covers. I don't read the blurb. Don't check the number of pages. Don't even check publication date, all things that can bite any reviewer. So far, however, Donna Andrews hasn't disappointed me. Mystery, mayhem, fun and quirky characters, lots of animals, frequently running amuck, and a well written, humorous read. This one was unique from most in that the murder main character Meg winds up focused on didn't just happen. In fact, it's decades old. As usual, Meg manages to stay cool and calm, even when she tumbles into danger. 

Long time readers will enjoy catching up with the family and pets, especially the evil one, Spike, who manages to get into all sorts of mischief despite efforts to keep him away from the flurry of activity on the home front. Seems a couple hundred homeless dogs and assorted other critters are being groomed and sheltered at Meg's in preparation of a Mutt March meant to find them homes. The organization behind the effort will blow your mind and, no, Meg's good, but she's not in charge. Did I mention rumors of dog nappers by dog fighting rings? In any cace, ducks are involved, too, as you've probably deduced from the title, but you'll find yourself more of a duck expert after reading this than you might imagine. You'll even learn a bit about not just scanner chips and DNA and its uses in identifying bodies, even skeletons, but the general procedures and care taken by archaeologists investigating a bone find where poor Rob and Delaney wanted their duck pond to be located. You'll also know more about the Tasseled Wobbegong than you ever imagined you'd want to know or, if you're like me, you'd never heard of before. Oh, and the bomb shelters that were erected largely in the 60s. What is Vern's secret? And, oh, yes, where did Iris disappear to and why? 

Of course, there's more, much more, but you can rest assured it'll be a fun, entertaining visit. You'd think cousin Kevin would run out of surveillance cameras. He's sure a busy young man. In any case, seriously, if you're in the need of a fun, feel good read that will have you chuckling most of the time, give this one a read. This series is a DO NOT MISS on my list. Thanks #StMartinsPress - #Minotaur for providing me this early look and lots of chuckles. I'm already looking forward to my next visit with Meg, Michael, Chief Burke, and the rest, ducks, llamas, and who knows what else.

The Library in the Woods, by Calvin Alexander Ramsey, R. Gregory Christie (illustrator)

 

Publication August 5, 2025

Powerful in its simplicity.

While based on the author's own memories, this book speaks to us all. The illustrations are also strong in their stark simplicity, conveying first the isolation and devastation after a hard hail storm, then the magic of friendships and of the library in the woods. Segregation denied access to libraries to Black Americans. The library opens up a whole new world of possibilities to Junior, the young main character. In the process, he grows closer to his father through the power of words. 

I won't belabor this review as the book stands wonderfully strong on its own. Make sure you read the Author's Note at the end as it fills in some spaces that adults might wonder about. Children, too, for that matter. Readers can learn that change can bring turmoil but also good things and growth, too. I want to thank #LernerPublishingGroup for allowing me an early look at this book. As an avid reader from the time I could hold up a book -- lucky me, my family were readers -- I cannot imagine a life without books and can fully appreciate how much this tiny cabin in the woods full of books meant to those who were denied access.

 

Murder at the English Manor ( Miss Underhay Mysteries, #20), by Helena Dixon

 

Publication May 23, 2025

Kitty and Matt are not only good private investigators but a delightful couple to spend time with. No matter what is going on, including murder and mayhem. They seem to keep their cool and carry on, although Kitty would dearly love to tell Inspector Lewis off, I'm sure. His lack of respect for her sleuthing skills is long standing, however, and Kitty (and Matt) seem to have learned to cope with him well. That said, they were a bit surprised when he showed up to investigate the murder of the maid at Markham Hall since it's out of his usual realm. There at the invite of Lord and Lady Faversham, perhaps prompted by Mrs. Craven, to add to the security of the gathering to celebrate their eldest son's engagement to a rich American heiress. This seemed to be a common during this time period, which is 1937, England. It's obviously a marriage of convenience, with the daughter getting a fancy title while the Faversham family gets a much needed ingestion of cash. Let's just say Markham Hall is showing its age.

Although Matt isn't distracted long from the long running quest of the series to discover the secrets behind Redvers Palmerston's mysterious appearance after seemingly been dead for years. More on that to come, I'm sure, in future books. The primary focus is to discover what happened to Agnes, sister to Mrs. Craven's maid Dora. That answer is discovered by the rather unpleasant discovery of the body by Kitty while out walking, Bertie, her spaniel who seems to have a nose for finding bodies. There are multiple suspects, mostly focused on those who were there for the engagement announcement. Family secrets seem to abound and rumors of gambling debts, break-ins, and blackmail circulate. In the meantime, what the heck is the American bride-to-be up to? Just one more mystery for Kitty and Matt to solve. Now, if they can just keep Mrs. Craven from getting into mischief/danger. Will the wedding happen? Why does the potential groom's brother take off to stay with friends? What was Agnes up to when she was killed? Who....oh, more than enough teasers.

It's an intriguing mystery with lots of twists and turns and I didn't really figure out whodunit until it was revealed, fun to try to figure out. I definitely have enjoyed getting to know Kitty and Matt better every book and following Matt's efforts to sort out the Redvers' mystery. Although run-down, the setting of Markham Hall adds a touch of upper-class life to the story while the murder itself is, sadly, not the least bit respectful of wealth and class. Thanks to #Bookouture and #NetGalley for initially introducing me to Kitty and Matt and allowing me this early peek at their current case and progress(?) on the Redvers' front. Definitely looking forward to the next installment after that ending.

Fix the Fire Damage The Everyday Pain Guide series: Volume 2 – Your Go-To Guide When Pain First Strikes, by Ya-Ling J. Liou

 Publication July 22, 2025

I'm at somewhat of a loss as to how to review this accurately. Understandably, based on a book of 600 plus pages, I can't supply detailed strategies like it does. So, I'll settle for saying that while admittedly I didn't read each and every section, I found the basic foundation of the book well done. As the author notes, pain has been a part of their own life, so their involvement in ways to alleviate it are personal. Personal stories of others are also shared, reminding those suffering that you aren't alone. 

While I won't share details, I will note a few of the things I particularly liked about the book. I liked that the author seemed a real person, not a reserved, distant voice who neither understands nor has the time to help you sort out a solution. There are photos illustrating suggested strategies, something that reminded me of the handouts I received when doing physical therapy for a bad arm break. There are also cartoon-like graphics used to help illustrate points, frequently with some humor. One real plus is the inclusion of how to retrain your muscles and body, not just solve the problem and go on with life as if it never happened. More, much more, of course, but didn't drift into difficult to follow strategies, either.

Bottom line, although a lot to take in, for those suffering pain, this might be a helpful tool. As the author notes, the key is to take action soon rather than later.  The longer you wait, the more likelihood of chronic pain developing, in other words. While I'm not sure I've done this book justice, thanks to #ReturnToHealthPress - #IBPA for this early share of a book that may prove invaluable to many.

Featuring Taylor Swift: Facts, Quizzes, Activities, and More!, Editor Gena Chester

 

Publication August 1, 2025

Do you know which of her videos Taylor Swift appeared in in disguise? True Swifties know. In fact, many can rattle off details like how many times total such and such color is used in her songs. Hint, red wins. Don't feel bad if you didn't know.. I didn't, either. 

In other words, even if you're not the target age of 8-12, there's lots to enjoy in this fun book. Full of colorful photos, info, and fun quizzes, puzzles, and such, all broken up nicely, it would make a lovely gift for a young (or old) fan. It's an easy read and I liked that the activities urged readers not just to focus on Swift but on how her music makes them feel, creating such things as colorful personalized posters and such as one of a kind memories. And, never fear. The now iconic friendship bracelets get their own space. 

Bottom line, this book reminds me a bit of the old teen magazines. True Swifties probably won't find much new here but it was a nice review for me, a more casual fan, and, as noted, I learned a few things in the process. I especially liked that the author pointed out some of the "Easter Eggs" Swift utilizes to send coded messages to her fans, even in her nail designs, no less. Another appreciated bit was the nod to her "Squad", showing and identifying photos of many. It's subtle proof of how much effort Swift takes to spread the credit and, yes, fun. Thanks to #Capstone for sharing this early look at a fun, color filled splash of information, facts and figures, and just plain ol' fun. I'm liking Swift more and more as I get to know her better, especially seeing her loyalty and devotion to her fans.

Ranch and Red Herrings (Bluegrass Ridge Ranch Mysteries Book 1), by Tonya Kappes

 Publication June 28, 2025

Since my ambition as a child was to grow up and be a cowboy, never mind I was a girl, the "Ranch" in the title pulled me in immediately. I'm also a Tonya Kappes fan, so a win-win.  Overall, this is an excellent start of a new series. Kappes descriptions pulled me right in, making me feel like I was there enjoying the beautiful setting and horses as much as Georgia "Cussy" Hollingsworth. Lots of small town western charm with more than a touch of Kentucky's Southern charm for good measure. Her grandfather Amos's death turns out to have been murder, however, complicating her return.

Much to the displeasure of some family members, Cussy has unexpectedly inherited her grandfather's cattle ranch, While close to her grandfather, she hadn't been there for many years and, quite frankly, even most community members figure she won't last long. She doesn't help herself by disrupting an established relationship between ranch manager Cole and Libby, a bit of a town diva with a monied family. Heck, she's not even sure she will stay, especially after tackling the list of daily chores she's expected to handle as even "maybe" ranch owner. She is definitely attracted to Cole, however, but that doesn't keep her from making a series of bad choices. I liked her but still have reservations, I guess it would be honest to say. When her friend Rowan, perky and outgoing, blue hair and all, and the type who can and will talk to anyone, things definitely get, um, interesting. There were hints of a potential romance for her, too, so she's probably a long term character. In any case, together they set out to try to discover who would murder Amos despite the expected cautions from Sheriff Wade Landry, who turns out to be a former friend.

I won't detail the plot any further than these general comments but I doubt it's any surprise Cussy runs into danger. I didn't figure out whodunit until the final reveal,gotta admit. That small town was full of secrets, major league gossipers, and people who just didn't quite know what to make of Cussy's grand entrance back into town life. It was definitely quite memorable. I didn't feel like we got to know most of the likely continuing cast well but for a first book, we got the basics. I'm still on the fence about Cole and am sure my head would be spinning if I hung out with Rowan too long, but they were definitely interesting and seemed to be good, caring people. I'm sure we'll get to know the townspeople and ranch crew better as the series progresses. And, oh, Cussie's mother. She makes an appearance but didn't seem to make an impact on my brain, sorry. In any case, if you want to lose yourself in rolling pastures and immerse yourself into ranch life, including getting to know the ranch dog, and like an intriguing mystery where everyone seems to have both secrets and a story (or two) to tell, give this one a read. Thanks #NetGalley - #VictoryEditingNetGalleyCo-op for letting me have an early peek at this one and wallow in my little girl dreams of endless horses and gorgeous spaces to ride them across forever.

Tea with Jam & Dread (Tea by the Sea Mysteries Book 6), by Vicki Delany

 

Publication July 29,2025

We're off to jolly ol' England in this installment of the series. Well, not so jolly. Not only is Elizabeth, a countess nearing 100 years-old, who has opened up the Thornecroft Castle estate as a luxury hotel, dealing with family drama, but there's a murder. Needless to say, long time readers won't be surprised to discover Lily Roberts in the middle of it. There with her grandmother Rose, a former kitchen maid at the estate who'd become Elizabeth's friend, and best friend Bernie/Bernadette, she offers to help out in the kitchen. While a kind offer, it puts her on the suspect list. To complicate matters, priceless family jewelry goes missing. Are the crimes connected? 

I won't detail the plot but will note that I very much appreciated the cast of characters included at the front (and British recipes at the end). This one has a large cast and, quite frankly, even after finishing I'm not quite sure I have the family connections quite straight. As a result, the pace seemed leisurely at times as the various characters were introduced, many basically just passing through while others played a more active role. It was interesting that one character was part of a movement to do away with the nobility and status ranking, so to speak, as we heard others talk of the role such things had played in their lives and, yes, the personality of the victim. The usual cast, Rose, Bernie, and Lily were joined by Matt Goodwell, Bernie's boyfriend, a writer doing research in England, and master gardener Simon McCracken, Lily's romantic partner. . 

Bottom line, I like these characters and it seemed like Lily was taking a bit more of the lead in the investigation this go-usual this round rather than following and being prodded by Rose and Bernie. For long time readers, enjoy getting a glimpse of the England Rose so fondly remembers, not to mention enjoy Lily's panic over not just roundabouts but driving on the, to her American mind, the wrong side of the road. Fortunately Simon eventually takes on the driver role or we might have gotten some insight into British hospital care. Lots of family drama and angst, spurned romances, and lively children running about. While the final reveal seemed to just happen, it was satisfactory and wrapped up the case nicely. Thanks #KensingtonPublishing- #KensingtonCozies for allowing me this early peek at the goings-on in Lily's life. How delightful to get this glimpse of Rose's past, in particular, and the aristocratic life of some in England, not to mention their police procedures. The quick glimpse of the barn activity was a bonus. Long nail file, indeed. Grin.

Murder at the High School Reunion (Maya and Sandra Mystery, #5), by Lee Hollis

 

Publication July 1, 2025

 If you've ever attended a high school reunion gathering you'll be able to relate to the reluctance with which Maya and Sandra go to their 25th reunion. But, hey, it involves a paid case and, well, Maya always needs money. As they feared, a once and seemingly always mean girl and her cronies don't seem to have changed. In fact, one has a nasty surprise planned for her cheating husband that will rely on evidence she's hired them to find. On the plus side, former wallflower, shy girl Alyssa Turner will be there, too, and has contacted them. Alyssa is now an Oscar nominated actress. Unfortunately, murder steals the spotlight.

While I won't detail the plot, let's just say you're likely not to have much more sympathy for the victim than I did. Still, no one deserves to die. At their high school reunion, no less. Maya and Sandra are drawn into the investigation when it turns out Alyssa was heard having a confrontation with the victim not long before their death. Alyssa, far from being a snooty movie star turned out to be quite likeable and even helped them out with their case via her acting skills. Good preparation for her upcoming role as a private eye, I'd say.

Despite the crowd at the reunion, the focus characters in this book besides those mentioned, are Max and Lucas. Turns out Maya still loves her recently released from prison husband Max, an ex-cop, no less.  Let's just say he has a mandatory meeting with his probation officer at the end. As for Lucas, well, he's madly in love with Sandra but she thinks he's too young for her. I think I missed the last book because I didn't realize how far this had progressed, so catching up on Sandra, formerly married to a prominent senator, was fun. As always, she's puts her life on the line for a case, so Lucas may have gray hair soon, however. Bottom line, a fun mystery with memorable characters good and bad, and interesting backstories to keep us intrigued. Thanks #KensingtonPublishing - #KensingtonCozies for this early peek at what is going on in Maya and Sandra's busy world. I'm looking forward to seeing how Max will fit into the equation as they seem to be firmly on the reunification trail. Let's hope he avoids any more unplanned probation conferences.

 

Murder on the Books, by Toni LoTempio

 

Publication July 1, 2025

An incognito mystery writer moves back to her ol' home town to get away from all things mystery and the pressures of writing. Instead, she lands in the middle of a real-life murder mystery. She discovers her friend Zane's new business is endangered before it even opens. Business partner to-be, Sheila has gone missing, leaving Zane stretched financially. Charley/Charlotte agrees (volunteers, really) to be her new partner. While checking out the basement of the two shared businesses, Charley finds Sheila's body hidden in a chest. She didn't disappear. She was murdered. 

Thus begins a brand new mystery series. I won't detail the plot but it was an interesting one with lots of twists and turns and several suspects. Enter Barbie, er, Detective Barbara Johnson, a former classmate of both Charley and Zane. Let's just say they were not friends. Fortunately, a much more interesting character soon enters, Detective Ian Grant, who seems to be in town temporarily from a neighboring town. Cozy mystery fans will see where this is going, I'm sure. Of course, Charley doesn't make things easy, sticking her nose in the case and, in general, putting herself in danger multiple times. You'd think a mystery writer would know better, huh, but finding a read dead body was new to Charley and she seems compelled to follow leads....no matter where they lead. I have to admit, I found it rather unrealistic that townspeople would open up and be so forthcoming with a virtual stranger, hometown girl or not, but, it did move the plot along quickly. 

Bottom line, while I had a minor quibble, I enjoyed the book and will be looking forward to the next. .Quibble, you say? Yes. For instance, I'm a dog person and make sure my dog is secured in the car when I travel with her. Charley, in contrast, after finding a stray cat she calls Poe, simply put cat into the car free and even leaves Poe alone there for extended times. Despite this, I found myself liking her and the surrounding cast of characters. Heck, I didn't even dislike Barbie, er, Detective Johnson as we don't get much of the backstory yet. For that matter, we don't get to know even Charley well but, hey, this is the first in a hopefully long series, so that's normal. I definitely liked how the author handled the issue of PTSD/mental issues via Nancy and her service dog. I hope we see a lot more of them in future books, especially since it gave insight into Charley. Thanks #SevernHouse for this early look at a promising new series. I wonder how long Charley can keep her author status hidden. Something tells me Ian Grant will figure it out when he sets his mind to it. Charley isn't real good at hiding her unusual knowledge of murder investigations.