Bookshops & Bonedust

Title: Bookshops & Bonedust
Author: Travis Baldree
Published: November 7, 2023 by Tor Trade
Format: Paperback, 352 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Series: Legends & Lattes #0

First Sentence: Prologue. “Eighteen!” bellowed Viv, bringing her saber around in a flat curve that battered the wight’s skull off its spine.

Blurb: Viv's career with the notorious mercenary company Rackam's Ravens isn't going as planned.

Wounded during the hunt for a powerful necromancer, she's packed off against her will to recuperate in the sleepy beach town of Murk—so far from the action that she worries she'll never be able to return to it.

What's a thwarted soldier of fortune to do?

Spending her hours at a beleaguered bookshop in the company of its foul-mouthed proprietor is the last thing Viv would have predicted, but it may be both exactly what she needs and the seed of changes she couldn't possibly imagine.

Still, adventure isn't all that far away. A suspicious traveler in gray, a gnome with a chip on her shoulder, a summer fling, and an improbable number of skeletons prove Murk to be more eventful than Viv could have ever expected.

My Opinion: Having come late to this book party, I decided to jump into this series with the prequel, Bookshops & Bonedust, instead of starting with the first book, Legends & Lattes. This prequel begins ten years before the main series, and it's packed with a touching mix of characters who bring their backstories to the table.

A blend of power and loss, budding romances, and heartbreak. It's filled with the kindness of strangers, the warmth of found family, and the joy of discovering a new passion and purpose. All wrapped up in humor that keeps the book flowing.

I'm still getting my feet wet in the fantasy genre. Yet, I believe this book leans towards epic fantasy since the reader is introduced to an orc mercenary, a rattkin book merchant, a dwarf baker, a gnome, a necromancer, and even a satchel of enslaved bones that, with the right dust, spring to life. And let's not forget Pot Roast, the adorable dog who seems to be part pug, part owl, and 100% charming. The genre might be confusing, but the fun and enjoyment are undeniable.

Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books

Title: Lula Dean's Little Library of Banned Books
Author: Kirsten Miller
Published: June 18, 2024 by William Morrow
Format: Hardcover, 298 Pages
Genre: Women's Fiction

First Sentence: Ronnie Childers was tripping his balls off in Jackson Square when an angel of the Lord appeared before him.

Blurb: Beverly Underwood and her arch enemy, Lula Dean, live in the tiny town of Troy, Georgia, where they were born and raised. Now Beverly is on the school board, and Lula has become a local celebrity by embarking on mission to rid the public libraries of all inappropriate books—none of which she’s actually read. To replace the “pornographic” books she’s challenged at the local public library, Lula starts her own lending library in front of her home: a cute wooden hutch with glass doors and neat rows of the worthy literature that she’s sure the town’s readers need.

What Lula doesn’t know is that a local troublemaker has stolen her wholesome books, removed their dust jackets, and restocked Lula’s library with banned books: literary classics, gay romances, Black history, witchy spell books, Judy Blume novels, and more. One by one, neighbors who borrow books from Lula Dean’s library find their lives changed in unexpected ways. Finally, one of Lula Dean’s enemies discovers the library and decides to turn the tables on her, just as Lula and Beverly are running against each other to replace the town’s disgraced mayor.

That’s when all the townspeople who’ve been borrowing from Lula’s library begin to reveal themselves. That's when the showdown that’s been brewing between Beverly and Lula will roil the whole town...and change it forever. (Amazon)

My Opinion: The brilliance at the beginning of Lula Dean’s Little Library of Banned Books lies in Kirsten Miller's ability to make her readers laugh and shake their heads at far-reaching social issues. Initially focusing on banning books at the local library, the story quickly evolves into a broader narrative. Battle lines are drawn, hearts are broken, and families are torn apart. Throughout the turmoil, I found myself navigating a range of emotions—jolts, head shakes, inhaled breaths, and laughter—all while hoping for a happily ever after.

The author peppers the narrative with cultural references, including book titles as chapter headings, that help readers engage on multiple levels and enrich the experience. The book reaches a peak in its first half, maintaining a lighthearted feel despite its debated subjects. However, it takes a sudden downward plunge into darker territory with notorious characters and a despicable subject matter, which felt unnecessary. This shift turned me off, leaving me questioning whether finishing the book was worth my time.

Despite the attempt to turn things around in the final chapters, including a "years later" recap, it felt too late to change my opinion on how the book wasted its initial promise.

An Instruction in Shadow

Title: An Instruction in Shadow
Author: Benedict Jacka
Published: October 15, 2024 by Ace
Format: Kindle, Paperback 336 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Inheritance of Magic #2

First Sentence: It was wet, it was cold, and I was worried.

Blurb: The ultra-rich control magic—the same way they control everything else—but Stephen Oakwood may just beat them at their own game in this exhilarating contemporary fantasy from the author of the Alex Verus novels.Stephen Oakwood has emerged victorious against the schemes of his aristocratic family. Now he finally has the opportunity to do what he’s been wanting to do for a long track down his father. But doing so won’t be easy. Stephen’s not so isolated any more, but the contacts he’s making in the magical world—everyone from the corporation he works for to the mother he’s just beginning to reconnect with—all have agendas of their own. And now a new group is emerging from the shadows, calling themselves the Winged. Their leader, the mysterious Byron, promises that he can show Stephen how to find his father...but he wants something in return.Following that trail will throw Stephen into greater danger than he’s ever faced before. To survive, he’ll need to use all of his tricks and sigls, and pick up some new ones. Only then will he be able to prevail against his enemies...and find out who’s really pulling the strings.

My Opinion: What began well fizzled in the middle, started to regain momentum, and ended in a way that no book should.

This book picks up about a week after the previous one ended. If, like me, you've read many books in between, you might need to revisit the last few chapters of An Inheritance of Magic to reacquaint yourself with wells, essentia, drucraft, and the House of Ashford.

Stephen Oakwood's job as a locator takes a downturn, forcing him to focus on essentials like rent and food rather than the intricacies of House Ashford. He confronts his mother and continues to seek the whereabouts of his father. His half-siblings are still a mess, but Bridget/Isadora, seems to be on his side, while his Tobias remains as diabolical and untrustworthy as ever, yet Stephen finds something likable about him.

From the previous book, we know that Charles Ashford, the head of House Ashford, is Stephen’s grandfather and will decide who will be the next Head of House. Cousin Calhoun is considered the heir apparent, but the repeated claims that "Stephen isn’t qualified" and "Stephen will never be appointed," along with relentless testing, makes the reader wonder if this is the obvious direction the series will take.

It seems the whole point of this book was to introduce the reader to The Winged, a cult led by the nefarious Byron, who has information about Stephen's father. In his desperation, Stephen follows Byron, wherever that may lead him.

Overall, this book feels like filler. Not much happens, and few inroads are made. It feels more like the author was sprinkling ideas to see what sticks. This book lacks the spark that the first in the series had. Will I read the next one? I think I have to, in hopes that Benedict Jacka gets this series back on track and cuts out the unnecessary filler.

Killing Time

Title: Killing Time
Author: R.W. Green writing for M.C. Beaton
Published: October 8, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, 256 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Agatha Raisin #35

First Sentence: “So this is where the murder was committed…” Agatha Raisin leaned against a wooden gate, craning her neck to peer into the meadow beyond.

Blurb: Life is never, ever dull in Agatha Raisin's sleepy Cotswolds village! Agatha Raisin's private detective agency is working flat out on a series of burglaries which take a violent turn when a friend of Agatha's is murdered during a raid on his antiques shop. Although determined to nail the villains, Agatha still makes time to help Sir Charles Fraith prepare to stage a massive, hugely glamorous event in the grounds of his ancestral home, Barfield House. When Agatha begins to receive death threats and narrowly avoids being abducted by kidnappers, she takes advantage of a previously arranged trip to Majorca to lie low for a while. There she meets her partner, former police officer John Glass, who is now working as a dance instructor on a cruise liner. Their relationship founders over John's apparent closeness to his stage dance partner, Louise. Putting her love life on hold, Agatha heads home, having worked out who has been threatening her life. Can Agatha track down the would-be killer, nail her friend's murderers and rescue her romance with John? Everything comes to a climax at the Barfield Extravaganza when on top of everything else, Agatha also manages to solve a 400-year-old Cotswold murder mystery!

My Opinion: This is one of those series that is an automatic read, regardless of the level of writing. Killing Time opens with a reference to a crime from the 1660s, leaving a shadowy tone that left me curious about where this book was going. The story then changes and quickly escalates with a series of current-day events: burglaries, riddles as death threats, a murder, an attempted kidnapping, vandalism, a clock, and relationship drama—all against the backdrop of planning a grand event for Charles’s Barfield wine business.

The usual characters are here, and I particularly enjoyed Bill Wong's and Gustav’s characters—Bill’s ability to handle Agatha, mingling with Gustav’s patient endurance of her antics, always makes me laugh.

Killing Time, while short, presents an engaging start with numerous plot points and dramatic turns. It features long chapters heavily packed with activity at the start, but the pace meanders as it progresses through the extensive plot points and then focuses on tying up loose ends. Despite this, the characters and the series' charm continue to draw me back.

A Merry Little Murder Plot

Title: A Merry Little Murder Plot
Author: Jenn McKinlay
Published: October 8, 2024 by Berkley
Format: Kindle, 317 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Library Lover's Mystery #15

First Sentence: "Let it snow, let it snow, Let it snow..." a voice sang softly.

Blurb: During the most wonderful time of the year, famous author Helen Monroe arrives in Briar Creek to be the writer in residence, but her “bah humbug” attitude excludes her from the many holiday celebrations the town residents enjoy. To try to spread some Christmas cheer, library director Lindsey Norris invites the new writer in residence to join her crafternoon club. Helen politely refuses and when an altercation happens between Helen and another patron, Lindsey begins to suspect the author has been keeping to herself for a reason.

Another newcomer, Jackie Lewis, reveals she’s visiting Briar Creek to be near Helen because she believes they are destined to meet. Having dealt with a stalker in the past, Lindsey feels compelled to tell Helen about Jackie, as she suspects that Helen is unaware her “number one” fan is in town.

When Jackie’s body is later discovered in the town park beneath the holiday-light display with a copy of Helen’s latest manuscript in her hand, the reclusive novelist becomes the prime suspect in the murder of her self-proclaimed mega-fan. Helen’s frosty demeanor melts when Lindsey offers her help, and now the librarian and her crafternoon pals must prove the author innocent before "The End" becomes Helen's final sentence.

My Opinion: The book starts strong, engaging readers with characters that quickly elicit solid reactions—a mix of irritating and suspicious roles, along with a third character caught in their scheming. It’s a promising beginning for an amateur sleuth mystery. However, the introduction of two additional characters, who seem to serve only to stir up trouble, left me unsure of their importance to the overall plot.

The premise of two women plotting to ban an author’s books and cancel a writer-in-residence program at a small town library felt somewhat far-fetched and weakly plotted. It’s hard to imagine this being a major issue in the grand scheme of things.

Around 100 pages in, the victim finally appears—though not the person I had anticipated. Do writers still print out manuscripts? The relationships in the book become twisty, adding confusion to the mix. One of the many subplots left me wondering whether this was an amateur sleuth mystery or a commentary on book banning.

The middle of the book turns out to be rather superficial and follows typical genre tropes. Lindsay, of course, must throw herself into the investigation, even though the Chief of Police, Emma, is more than capable of handling it. The usual twists are present, but none are particularly shocking or groundbreaking.

While the beginning held promise, A Merry Little Murder Plot ultimately became a “why bother” read. It’s books like this that make me question why I continue with the amateur sleuth genre. Despite the initial intrigue, the weak plotting and predictable twists left me disappointed.

The Games Gods Play

Title: The Games Gods Play
Author: Abigail Owen
Published: September 3, 2024 by Entangled: Red Tower Books
Format: Kindle, 645 Pages
Genre: Fantasy
Series: The Crucible #1

First Sentence: Preface. “F” the gods. I got so close. So damned close to finally reaching my goal, finally seeing my curse broken, and maybe, just maybe, finally feeling the love of the one man I long for.

Blurb: Every hundred years, the gods toy with us mere mortals. And we let them.

The gods of myth are alive and well.

Once every century, they select a new ruler in a cutthroat competition, pushing mortal players to the limit. But this year, Hades is done sitting on the sidelines. And he’s picking a champion no one expects—in this modern mythic romantasy, she’ll fight for her life… for the god of Death.

My Opinion: The Game of Gods is reminiscent of The Hunger Games, with mortals as pawns in the Greek gods’ ultimate power play. Perhaps those with a deeper knowledge of Greek mythology might navigate the book’s many deities more easily. Still, I often found myself diving into rabbit holes to look up each one mentioned.

The protagonist, Lyra Keres, is a 23-year-old mortal cursed from birth to never be loved. Bartered by her parents at three years old to pay off a debt, she grows up to become a skilled thief. Lyra's life takes a dramatic turn when Hades selects her as his champion for the Crucible—a twelve-trial game to decide the next ruler among the gods. A game where survival is not guaranteed. It's worth noting that snark seems to be the only way to catch Hades' attention—a humorous twist that adds flavor to the story.

The book’s humor and intensity keep the pages turning. Owen excels in world-building and creating vivid characters. The twelve challenges of the Crucible are progressively complex, maintaining the book’s thrilling pace. As Lyra navigates these trials, readers stay engaged, trying to anticipate which abilities will lead her to victory, who will fall, and who will reach the finish line.

This book offers a bit of everything. It's not a typical enemies-to-lovers story, but rather a business arrangement that gets spicy. The side characters are integral to the plot, making you both love and mourn them. The promise of a sequel is exciting, as there’s clearly much more story to be told.

Despite not being a typical rereader, I found myself contemplating a reread to catch nuances I might have missed the first time. The Game of Gods is an intense, brutal, and unforgettable read.

The Game of Gods is a gripping tale that intertwines the intensity of mortal challenges with the whimsical nature of Greek mythology. Its humor, depth, and complex characters make it a standout novel, leaving readers eager for more. If you're a fan of high-stakes games and intricate world-building, this book is a must-read.

In the Company of Witches

Title: In the Company of Witches
Author: Auralee Wallace
Published: October 19, 2021 by Berkley
Format: Mass Market Paperback, 336 Pages
Genre: Paranormal
Series: Evenfall Witches B&B #1

First Sentence: "I'm going to kill her."

Blurb: For four hundred years, the Warren witches have used their magic to quietly help the citizens of the sleepy New England town of Evenfall thrive. There's never been a problem they couldn't handle. But then Constance Graves--a local known for being argumentative and demanding--dies while staying at the bed and breakfast Brynn Warren maintains with her aunts. At first, it seems like an accident...but it soon becomes clear that there's something more sinister at work, and Aunt Nora is shaping up to be the prime suspect.

There's nothing Brynn wants more than to prove Nora's innocence, and it hurts her to know that even two years ago that might have been easier. Brynn, after all, is a witch of the dead--a witch who can commune with ghosts. Ghosts never remember much about their deaths, but Constance might remember something about her life that would help crack the case. But Brynn hasn't used her powers since her husband died, and isn't even sure she still can. Brynn will just have to hope that her aunts' magic and her own investigative skills will lead her to answers--and maybe back to the gift she once thought herself ready to give up forever.

My Opinion: The reader is introduced to a complex web of characters, relationships, and locations that can be difficult to untangle. The Warren sisters, Nora and Izzy, along with their niece Brynn, run a bed and breakfast in the quaint New England town of Evenfall and use their magic to subtly aid the townsfolk.

The story centers around Brynn, who has lost her ability to communicate with the dead following the sudden death of her husband and her determination to never use magic again; Aunt Izzy, a kitchen witch who equates spells with recipes; Nora, a garden witch; along with Uncle Gideon, who lives in the attic and can see the past and future, add to the eclectic mix of personalities and magical talents.

The plot kicks into gear when Constance, a guest at the B&B, is murdered. Brynn's internal battle to suppress her magic adds depth to her character since it tries to break through her walls. Without the use of her powers, her inability to connect with the dead complicates the investigation. The appearance of toads, a harbinger of trouble, hints at deep-seated family discord possibly linked to the murder. Izzy's denial of her magical abilities forces her to rely on traditional investigation methods to clear her aunt's name. This effort is short-lived, however, as she eventually embraces her magic to heal herself and others.

What began with promise—a mix of mystery and magic—soon devolves into a sluggish midsection with an ending that felt rushed and unsatisfying. The multitudes of characters and complex relationships initially engage but ultimately contribute to the sense of a story that loses steam and direction. Despite these shortcomings, the book's exploration of healing and personal growth offers some redeeming qualities, but not enough to fully deliver its initial promise.

The Penderwicks

Title: The Penderwicks: A Summer Tale of Four Sisters, Two Rabbits, and a Very Interesting Boy
Author: Jeanne Birdsall
Published: March 1, 2007 by Yearling
Format: Paperback, 262 Pages
Genre: Children's Fiction

First Sentence: For a long time after that summer, the four Penderwick sisters still talked of Arundel.

Blurb: The Penderwick sisters busily discover the summertime magic of Arundel estate’s sprawling gardens, treasure-filled attic, tame rabbits, and the cook who makes the best gingerbread in Massachusetts. Best of all is Jeffrey Tifton, son of Arundel’s owner, the perfect companion for their adventures. Icy-hearted Mrs. Tifton is less pleased with the Penderwicks than Jeffrey, and warns the new friends to stay out of trouble. Is that any fun? For sure the summer will be unforgettable.

My Opinion: I approached The Penderwicks with certain expectations but found it didn’t quite satisfy the itch I was hoping to scratch. The pace felt slow and while the story doesn't specify an exact year, it has a timeless, nostalgic ambiance.

The charm lies in its focus on the Penderwick sisters—Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty—and their summer vacation adventures and relationships. This innocence is appealing, but I found the convenience of their mother’s passing a bit contrived and unnecessary. I don’t believe that the story would read any differently if the mother hadn’t passed soon after Batty’s birth.

The plot tends to be predictable, and the overall tone feels idealized and slightly old-fashioned considering that the book took place, according to the author, in the early 2000’s. Despite these criticisms, there is an undeniable sweetness in the portrayal of the girls, making the narrative heartwarming in its simplicity.

While The Penderwicks didn’t fully meet my expectations, its nostalgic, timeless setting and the charming depiction of sisterly bonds offer a certain appeal. It may not have been the perfect fit for me, but its gentle and sweet nature could still capture the hearts of many readers.

The charm lies in its focus on the Penderwick sisters—Rosalind, Skye, Jane, and Batty—and their summer vacation adventures and relationships. This innocence is appealing, but I found the convenience of their mother’s passing a bit contrived and hard to swallow. I don’t believe that the story would read any differently if the mother hadn’t passed soon after Batty’s birth.

The plot tends to be predictable, and the overall tone feels idealized and slightly old-fashioned considering that the book took place, according to the author, in the early 2000’s. Despite these criticisms, there is an undeniable sweetness in the portrayal of the girls, making the narrative heartwarming in its simplicity.

While The Penderwicks didn’t fully meet my expectations, its nostalgic, timeless setting and the charming depiction of sisterly bonds offer a certain appeal. It may not have been the perfect fit for me, but its gentle and sweet nature could still capture the hearts of many readers.

An Academy for Liars

Title: An Academy for Liars
Author: Alexis Henderson
Published: September 17, 2024 by Ace
Format: Kindle, Hardcover, 464 Pages
Genre: Dark Academia
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: There was something in the bathroom mirrors.

Blurb: Lennon Carter’s life is falling apart.

Then she gets a mysterious phone call inviting her to take the entrance exam for Drayton College, a school of magic hidden in a secret pocket of Savannah. Lennon has been chosen because—like everyone else at the school—she has the innate gift of persuasion, the ability to wield her will like a weapon, using it to control others and, in rare cases, matter itself.

After passing the test, Lennon begins to learn how to master her devastating and unsettling power. But despite persuasion’s heavy toll on her body and mind, she is wholly captivated by her studies, by Drayton’s lush, moss-draped campus, and by her brilliant classmates. But even more captivating is her charismatic adviser, Dante, who both intimidates and enthralls her.

As Lennon continues in her studies her control grows, and she starts to uncover more about the secret world she has entered into, including the disquieting history of Drayton College, and the way her mentor’s tragic and violent past intertwines with it. She is increasingly disturbed by what she learns. For it seems that the ultimate test is to embrace absolute power without succumbing to corruption . . . and it's a test she's terrified she is going to fail.

My Opinion: This book is a masterclass in unexpected twists and turns. Just as you think you’ve settled into a rhythm; Henderson throws in a curveball that answers lingering questions while simultaneously setting your mind spinning in new directions.

Set in Drayton College, a hidden private academy located in the secretive 25th ward of Savannah—an area uncharted on any map—the narrative unfolds within this isolated world. The students gathered from around the globe, possess extraordinary talents, the type that fuel the ambitions of powerful figures.

Lennon Carter enters this world in disarray. Fresh from discovering her fiancé in a compromising situation with her best friend during their engagement party, Lennon stumbles upon a mysterious phone booth in an abandoned mall. The call she receives informs her of her acceptance into a college she never applied to, plunging her into the enigmatic Drayton College.

Her advisor, Dante Lowe, becomes a complex figure in her life. Their relationship evolves in the expected way in books of this genre and is further complicated by Dante’s undisclosed past. Drayton College’s motto seems to be that if you excel in persuasion, your past is irrelevant.

Lennon's first year is fraught with chaotic challenges, not just academically but personally, as she learns to navigate the intense and often brutal environment of Drayton. The book does not shy away from violence, highlighting the struggle of the students as they come to terms with their innate abilities and the explosive emotions that accompany them.

One of the book’s most captivating aspects is its unpredictability. The middle may have felt a bit slow at times, but that was only to prepare you for the ending which delivers a punch that leaves a lasting impact.

An Academy for Liars stands out as one of my top reads of the year for its intensity and the memorable twists that keep me holding my breath.

Though it’s listed as a standalone, the world Henderson has created is ripe with potential for a sequel.

The Bookshop of Hidden Dreams

Title: The Bookshop of Hidden Dreams
Author: Karen Hawkins
Published: August 27, 2024 by Gallery Books
Format: Kindle, 384 Pages
Genre: Women's Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Dove Pond #4

First Paragraph: Tay Dove returned to Dove Point early one frosty February evening. She didn’t go straight home, though. Instead, she headed for her special place: Rose’s bookstore.

Blurb: When an antique tin of love letters is found hidden in her family home, noted historian Tay Dove rushes home to Dove Pond to investigate. Tay is still reeling from a romantic betrayal, so she’s relieved to refocus her energies on her latest a biography of her great-great-grandmother Sarafina, a star reporter who began her career in Dove Pond in the late 19th century before abruptly leaving town.

Tay believes the letters could be the key in solving what happened, but they only add to her questions—especially when they reveal a forbidden love affair with William Day, a wild youth who took part in a notorious train robbery. Some answers might be found in eighty-year-old Rose Day’s bookshop, which doubles as a town archive, but Rose is curiously resistant to give Tay access. Just when Tay thinks she’s reached a dead end, she finds an unlikely ally in Rose’s grandson, Luke, a fellow puzzle lover. Together, they set out to uncover what really happened all those years ago…and find the truth behind a love story that could be more precious than gold.

My Opinion: Having followed this series since the debut novel, The Book Charmer, I've found myself consistently drawn to the Dove sisters, their unique abilities, and the charming town they call home. There's magic in how Karen Hawkins crafts her characters and their world that keeps me returning for more.

In this installment, Taylor “Tay” Dove, reeling from a one-sided relationship with Richard, which has left her wary and in need of personal growth, has returned home. She is determined to spend the next month, or so, immersed in the tin of letters discovered in the family home. With her Dove ability, she aims to uncover more about her ancestor, Sarafina Dove.

Meanwhile, Luke Day has put his career in cybersecurity aside to return home and adopt his niece following the imprisonment of her mother. He is also there to support his grandmother despite Rose's reluctance to admit it. The slow-burn romance between Tay and Luke is charming, with Luke struggling with his feelings and Tay working through her insecurities brought on by Richard's betrayal.

I particularly enjoyed the little puzzle with the anagram—it added an engaging twist to the story. However, I did find the middle part of the book to drag a bit, and the ending felt somewhat rushed. Despite this, the novel is a fun and clean read, perfect for those who prefer more sweetness than spice in their stories.

Casket Case

Title: Casket Case
Author: Lauren Evans
Published: September 10, 2024 by Dell
Format: Kindle, Paperback 398 Pages
Genre: Women's Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: “Thank you for calling Death,” a perky voice announced trough the car’s speakers.

Blurb: Nora thought she was finished with Rabbittown, Alabama, for good. But an unexpected tragedy turned her life upside down, and she's found herself back in her tiny hometown running the family casket business.

There aren't exactly a lot of prospects for a single woman in her thirties in a place like Rabbittown. Until Nora Clanton's ordinary, casket-selling day is interrupted by a handsome stranger wandering into her shop and asking for directions--as well as a date.

Garrett Bishop seems like the ideal guy. He's thoughtful, he's kind, and he has a lucrative job as a logistics coordinator, for which he seems to have a passion. She's not totally sure what "logistics" entails, but she knows it means long hours, lots of travel, and urgent calls in the middle of the night.

When a few of Rabbittown's residents suddenly pass away--a heart attack here, a car crash there--and Garrett is spotted at the scenes of, well, all of the deaths, his frustratingly vague job description starts to become increasingly . . . suspicious. What is it that Garrett actually does for a living?

He's a logistics coordinator for Death.

When Nora discovers the truth, she is unable to reconcile the wonderful man she knows with the unthinkably cruel job he loves. Will she ever be able to understand how he can do what he does, or will she have to lay her best chance at love to rest?

My Opinion: Nora, a 30-something owner of a casket store in the small town of Rabbittown, Alabama, finds herself unwittingly entangled in a whirlwind romance with Garrett, the Director of Logistics for Death.

The relationship between Nora and Garrett progresses at a rapid pace, making it feel problematic and unconvincing. The lack of development and depth in their relationship is a significant drawback.

The book suffers from noticeable editing oversights. For instance, in one chapter, Nora explicitly states her dislike for tomato sauce. Yet, two chapters later, she is seen making pizza with “pizza sauce.” Isn’t pizza sauce essentially tomato sauce? This and additional inconsistencies disrupt the reading experience and raise questions about the editorial process.

A quarter of the way through, the book’s tone feels reminiscent of a high school drama. While it might be categorized as women’s fiction, the writing and plot development lack the sophistication expected from a well-crafted story in this genre.

One of the few redeeming qualities of the book is its occasional sprinkling of humor which adds a touch of wit to an otherwise lackluster narrative.

The epilogue introduces a surprising twist related to family history. There was a hint of this midway through the book, but it is abruptly sprung on Nora in the literal last pages, leaving the reader feeling blindsided and unsatisfied.

“Casket Case” had the potential to be an engaging read, but it falls short due to its pacing, inconsistent character development, and editing issues. If it weren’t for the rare moments of humor, this would have been a definite DNF for me.

Hard to Kill

Title: Hard to Kill
Author: James Patterson, Mike Lupica
Published: July 29, 2024 by Little, Brown and Company
Format: Hardcover,page 384 Pages
Genre: Legal Thriller
Series: Jane Smith #2

First Sentence: Jimmy Cunniff calls to tell me to get dressed we’re taking a ride.

Blurb: Attorney Jane Smith is mounting an impossible criminal defense.

Her client, Rob Jacobson, is the unluckiest of the unlucky. No sooner is he accused of killing a family of three in the Hamptons than a second family is gunned down.

It’s not double jeopardy. It’s not double murder. It’s double triple homicide.

Jane’s career has spanned from NYPD beat cop to Hamptons courtroom. She’s tough to beat. She’s even tougher to kill.

My Opinion: Reading this book felt like a never-ending journey without a clear point.

The storyline meandered through a series of crimes without offering more than housecleaning. From the start, the narrative is filled with monotony – the crime that kicks the book off, cancer, more death, more cancer, more death. Then, the last chapter of Oh, look, the person behind it all.

A key point for readers is that the first and second books in this series are direct continuations of one another and should ideally be read back-to-back due to their tight narrative connection. The year-long gap between publications only adds to the confusion.

I also struggled to distinguish this series from James Comey’s Nora Carlton series. Since both narratives are similar, keeping them separate was challenging.

Hard to Kill reminded me of when you flip through a magazine, eager to skip the ads and get to the content. Instead, it meandered through detailed descriptions of New York locations, name-dropping brands, and venues, while the plot remained thin and vague. The numerous characters and their intricate connections became overwhelming, almost requiring a notebook to keep track.

This book reads more like a filler than a gripping thriller. Patterson originally intended the series to be a trilogy but vaguely promised the continuation of the series if the sales remained high. Unless book three comes out of the gates strong, I can’t see a need to go much further.

Ultimately, Hard to Kill fell short of its potential. The constant diversions and fillers made it a tedious read rather than engaging with a compelling story. Given the rambling nature and overwhelming cast of characters, I’d recommend giving this one a pass.

The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love

Title: The Ornithologist's Field Guide to Love
Author: India Holton
Published: July 23, 2024 by Berkley
Format: Kindle, Paperback 384 Pages
Genre: Historical Fantasy Rom-Com
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Love's Academic #1

First Sentence: It was a fine day for birding.

Blurb: Rival ornithologists hunt through England for a rare magical bird in this historical-fantasy rom-com reminiscent of Indiana Jones but with manners, tea, and helicopter parasols.

Beth Pickering is on the verge of finally capturing the rare deathwhistler bird when Professor Devon Lockley swoops in, capturing both her bird and her imagination like a villain. Albeit a handsome and charming villain, but that's beside the point. As someone highly educated in the ruthless discipline of ornithology, Beth knows trouble when she sees it, and she is determined to keep her distance from Devon.

For his part, Devon has never been more smitten than when he first set eyes on Professor Beth Pickering. She's so pretty, so polite, so capable of bringing down a fiery, deadly bird using only her wits. In other words, an angel. Devon understands he must not get close to her, however, since they're professional rivals.

When a competition to become Birder of the Year by capturing an endangered caladrius bird is announced, Beth and Devon are forced to team up to have any chance of winning. Now keeping their distance becomes a question of one bed or two. But they must take the risk, because fowl play is afoot, and they can't trust anyone else—for all may be fair in love and war, but this is ornithology.

My Opinion: *A delightful oddity of a book. It took me nearly halfway through to fully wrap my head around the multiple layers, but once I did, it was a fun ride! Imagine a mash-up of historical fiction, fantasy, and rom-com, with characters that feel like a quirky blend of Veronica Speedwell and Stoker, or Emily Wilde and Wendell Bambleby.

Takes place in late 19th century England, two rival and celebrated ornithologists, Beth Pickering and Devon Lockley, are on a wild and hilarious quest for a magical bird. Lockley is charming and handsome, sure, but also a total rival. Beth, being the genius she is, decides to keep her distance. Devon, however, is completely smitten by Beth’s brilliance and beauty. But, professional rivals, right? They can’t get too close… or can they?

There is now a new competition to capture the endangered caladrius bird. Beth and Devon are forced to team up, and suddenly, keeping their distance isn’t so easy. One bed or two? Decisions, decisions. But with "fowl" play afoot, they have no choice but to trust each other. And let me tell you, the humor and spice in this enemies-to-lovers tale are just perfect.

I had a real “duh” moment when I finally got the secondary meaning of the book’s title, or at least what I think it is. Sometimes I can be so dense! But once I did, it added a whole new layer to the story, especially with the publicists acting as puppet masters. Despite my initial confusion, I ended up loving this book. And yes, I will continue with the series. We’ll meet new characters in the next installment, one of whom is already introduced in The Ornithologist’s Field Guide to Love. A crossover series? Count me in!

Reading Between the Lies

Title: Reading Between the Lies
Author: Lynn Cahoon
Published: August 6, 2024 by Kensington
Format: Kindle, Paperback 201 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Survivors' Book Club Mystery #4

First Sentence: Rarity Cole loved date night.

Blurb: Bookshop owner Rarity Cole is living her best life after surviving cancer—hosting book clubs, classes, and parties at her store, The Next Chapter, and giving back to her community in Sedona, Arizona. But an awkward outing to an art gallery is about to add a dark slant to the picture . . .

Rarity is grateful for many things and people in her new life, including her friend Shirley, who is helping to provide backpacks and supplies for kids going back to school. But Shirley needs a big favor. With her husband in a memory-care home, she wants to attend an art opening with a male friend but fears local gossip. She asks Rarity, her friend Sam, and their boyfriends to come along as cover. It would be fun if not for the fact that the two couples are barely speaking…

The evening proceeds without any social disasters. But the featured artist—who struck Rarity as more of a spoiled playboy—is later found dead with an arrow in his back. Any lingering tensions must be set aside so the amateur sleuths can find an archer who may have taken the idea of pointed criticism a bit too literally. (GoodReads)

My Opinion: Reading Between the Lies by Lynn Cahoon left me feeling quite disappointed. I’m unsure if my tastes have evolved or if Cahoon’s writing has declined, but her recent books, including this one, haven’t resonated with me. The story feels more like a rough draft, filled with disjointed ideas and tangents, rather than a polished narrative with engaging characters and a plausible plot.

Given that Cahoon has published over 40 books and is an award-winning author, I expected much more. Unfortunately, I only made it halfway through Reading Between the Lies before resorting to skimming the rest. By the end, I was indifferent to the plot, the characters, and the setting.

I think I’ve reached my limit with this series. However, I plan to give her Tourist Trap series one more chance before deciding whether Lynn Cahoon remains on my TBR list. Here’s hoping for a return to the engaging storytelling that initially drew me to her work.

Shades of Mercy

Title: Shades of Mercy
Author: Bruce Borgos
Published: July 16, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 352 Pages
Genre: Police Procedural
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Porter Beck #2

First Sentence: At 92,000 feet, the Vulture suddenly developed a mind of its own.

Blurb: Porter Beck is the sheriff in the high desert of Nevada, doing the same lawman's job his father once did now that he's returned home after decades away. With his twelve person department, they cover a large area that is usually very quiet, but not of late. One childhood friend is the latest to succumb to a new wave of particularly strong illegal opioids, another childhood friend—now an enormously successful rancher—is targeted by a military drone, hacked and commandeered by an unknown source. The hacker is apparently local—local enough to call out Beck by name—and that means they are Beck's problem.

Beck's investigation leads him to Mercy Vaughn, the one known hacker in the area. The problem is that she's a teenager, locked up with no computer access at the secure juvenile detention center. But there's something Mercy that doesn't sit quite right with Beck. But when Mercy disappears, Beck understands that she's in danger and time is running out for all of them.

My Opinion: Shades of Mercy by Bruce Borgos is a must-read that will captivate you from the very first page. Borgos, an author who truly deserves more recognition, has crafted a story that is both gripping and unforgettable.

The novel centers on Sheriff Porter Beck, a determined lawman facing the challenges of a degenerative illness. His unwavering resolve and straightforward approach are truly admirable. Beck’s sister, with her courage and determination, adds another layer of depth to the story. The community’s steadfast support for their sheriff, always ready to lend a hand, is both touching and integral to the plot.

The book features several graphic and intense scenes, but they are essential to the storyline and never feel gratuitous. Borgos strikes a perfect balance, incorporating just enough technology to intrigue without overwhelming the reader.

One of the most thrilling aspects is the raging fire that threatens the team. This, combined with the presence of some dubious characters, creates a tense and suspenseful atmosphere as they work to rescue those in over their heads.

I’m eagerly looking forward to the next book, The Blue Horse, expected in the summer of 2025. If it’s anything like Shades of Mercy, it promises to be another enthralling read.

Book Lovers

Title: Book Lovers
Author: Emily Henry
Published: May 3, 2022 by Berkley
Format: Hardcover, 377 Pages
Genre: Romance

First Sentence: When books are your life—or in my case, your job— you get pretty good at guessing where a story is going.

Blurb: Nora Stephens’ life is books—she’s read them all—and she is not that type of heroine. Not the plucky one, not the laidback dream girl, and especially not the sweetheart. In fact, the only people Nora is a heroine for are her clients, for whom she lands enormous deals as a cutthroat literary agent, and her beloved little sister Libby.

Which is why she agrees to go to Sunshine Falls, North Carolina for the month of August when Libby begs her for a sisters’ trip away—with visions of a small-town transformation for Nora, who she’s convinced needs to become the heroine in her own story. But instead of picnics in meadows, or run-ins with a handsome country doctor or bulging-forearmed bartender, Nora keeps bumping into Charlie Lastra, a bookish brooding editor from back in the city. It would be a meet-cute if not for the fact that they’ve met many times and it’s never been cute.

If Nora knows she’s not an ideal heroine, Charlie knows he’s nobody’s hero, but as they are thrown together again and again—in a series of coincidences no editor worth their salt would allow—what they discover might just unravel the carefully crafted stories they’ve written about themselves.

My Opinion: I absolutely loved the banter in the early part of Book Lovers. The enemies-to-lovers dynamic between Nora and Charlie was engaging and filled with witty exchanges that kept me hooked. However, when the storyline shifted to focus more on family drama, I found myself losing interest. The transition from the sharp, humorous interactions to the more serious family issues felt jarring.

As expected, the book concluded with a happily ever after, but I found the last quarter of the book to be slow and somewhat uninteresting. The pacing seemed to drag, and the resolution felt predictable.

I know that romance books are not typically my genre, but I keep trying them in hopes that one day, I’ll find one that truly resonates with me. Despite my mixed feelings about Book Lovers, I appreciate the effort to blend romance with deeper themes, even if it didn’t quite hit the mark for me this time.

Murder at the White Palace

Title: Murder at the White Palace
Author: Allison Montclair
Published: July 30, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 320 Pages
Genre: Historical Mystery
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Sparks & Bainbridge Mystery #6

First Sentence: “I’ve just had the most wonderful idea!” said Gwen.

Blurb: In post-WWII London, the matchmakers of The Right Sort Marriage Bureau are involved in yet another murder.In the immediate post-war days of London, two unlikely partners have undertaken an even more unlikely, if necessary, business venture—The Right Sort Marriage Bureau. The two partners are Miss Iris Sparks, a woman with a dangerous—and never discussed—past in British intelligence and Mrs. Gwendolyn Bainbridge, a genteel war widow with a young son entangled in a complicated aristocratic family. Looking to throw a New Year’s Eve soiree for their clients, Sparks and Bainbridge scout an empty building—only to find a body contained in the walls. What they initially assume is a victim of the recent Blitz is uncovered instead to be a murder victim—stabbed several times.To make matters worse, the owner of the building is Sparks’ beau, Archie Spelling, who has ties to a variety of enterprises on the right and wrong sides of the law, and the main investigator for the police is her ex-fiancée. Gwen, too, is dealing with her own complicated love life, as she tentatively steps back into the dating pool for the first time since her husband’s death. Murder is not something they want to add to their plates, but the murderer may be closer to home than is comfortable, and they must do all they can to protect their clients, their business and themselves.

My Opinion: This was my least favorite of all the Sparks & Bainbridge books. The “whodunit” part was, I’m not going to say obvious, but it was close. I missed the witty banter that usually characterizes the series. Sparks suddenly becoming all soft and mushy was a turn-off for me. I enjoyed her strength and no-nonsense approach to life, so seeing her get gushy didn’t appeal to me at all.

However, I did enjoy that Bainbridge has grown a backbone. She was able to keep her cool and play a player without the reader being two steps ahead. This development in her character was refreshing and added a new layer to the story.

Yes, I will read the next book, but I certainly hope that Sparks gets her edge back. I miss the sharp, resilient character she used to be.

First Frost

Title: First Frost
Author: Craig Johnson
Published: May 28, 2024 by Viking
Format: Kindle, 333 pages
Genre: Police Procedural
Series: Longmire #20

First Sentence: “You’re too big to surf.”

Blurb: It’s the summer of 1964, and recent college graduates Walt Longmire and Henry Standing Bear read the writing on the wall and enlist to serve in the Vietnam War. As they catch a few final waves in California before reporting for duty, a sudden storm assaults the shores and capsizes a nearby cargo boat. Walt and Henry jump to action, but it’s soon revealed by the police who greet them ashore that the sunken boat carried valuable contraband from underground sources.

The boys, in their early twenties and in the peak of their physical prowess from playing college football for the last four years, head out on Route 66. The question, of course, is how far they will get before the consequences of their actions catch up to them—the answer being, not very.

Back in the present day, Walt is forced to speak before a Judge following the fatal events of The Longmire Defense. With powerful enemies lurking behind the scenes, the sheriff of Absaroka County must consider his options if he wishes to finish the fight he started.

Going back and forth between 1964 and the present day, Craig Johnson brings us a propulsive dual timeline as Walt Longmire stands between the crossfire of good and evil, law and anarchy, and compassion and cruelty at two pivotal stages in his life.

My Opinion Maybe I am the last to do the math. But if Walt was 22 in 1964, that would make him 82 in present day. Nope. That is not consistent with the physical demands each book puts him through or his relationship with Vic the Holy Terror.

When a novel is written as a dual timeline, I feel guilty when I enjoy one timeline better than the other. The writing is the same, it’s just that one always captures my attention more than the other. The narrative shifts between two timelines: the present and the summer of 1964. In the present, continuing on from The Longmire Defense, Sheriff Walt Longmire faces an investigation after a fatal shooting involving a member of a powerful family, bringing intense scrutiny. In the past, Walt, and his friend Henry Standing Bear, fresh from college and about to enlist for the Vietnam War, find themselves stranded in the eerie town of Bone Valley, Arizona.

Highlighting Walt’s early days and showcases bravery and determination beyond his years, he uncovers dark secrets in Bone Valley, including a sinister plot involving drug smugglers and a former judge who controls the town. The story also touches on the historical context of World War II internment camps for Japanese Americans, adding depth and a history lesson to the plot.

The way this book ended, the reader wonders if a character, that first appeared in The Longmire Defense and made a small appearance in this book, will be at the forefront of Walt seeking out justice. Then again, it’s not the first time an author left a dangly part and never addressed it again. It looks like we will have to wait until spring of next year to find out what Walt is up to.

Peking Duck and Cover

Title: Peking Duck and Cover
Author: Vivien Chien
Published: July 23, 2024 by Minotaur Books
Format: Kindle, 282 Pages
Genre: Amateur Sleuth
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Noodle Shop Mystery #10

First Sentence: New year, new me. Isn’t that the phrase?

Blurb: Lana Lee and friends return for a fiery Chinese New Year celebration that rattles their quaint community. After all, an Asia Village party wouldn’t be complete without an explosive finale.

Chinese New Year is supposed to be a time of fresh beginnings and celebrations of good fortune to come. Naturally, the shop owners of Asia Village jump at the chance to support property manager Ian Sung when he suggests creating a memorable holiday event that will bring positive light to the plaza, and prosperity for all those involved.

With Lana Lee as his right-hand woman and head event planner, Ian orchestrates an extravagant evening filled with music, live entertainment, and generous giveaways. But at the end of the night, during an elaborate firework show in the parking lot, a member of the lion dance performance team is found dead backstage with a single bullet hole through the heart and a red envelope in their pocket containing four one-dollar bills―an omen of death.

Ian Sung takes it upon himself, again enlisting Lana’s help, to find out who could have killed the talented dancer right under their nose.

My Opinion: I literally had to take notes with this one. My lines turned into triangles that turned into Ven diagrams. Which woman was which. Which man was which. Who was related to whom? Who was dating whom? Who were siblings, and who were like siblings. Very chaotic without the murderer being obvious too soon – mostly because I couldn’t keep everyone straight.

Set during a Chinese New Year celebration, Lana Lee finds herself entangled in a murder investigation after a member of the lion dance team is found dead. Adding to that the discovery of an ominous red envelope and rumors of a curse all add layers of interest to the plot.

Vivien Chien weaves cultural elements into the narrative, creating a vivid and immersive setting. The characters are familiar, well-developed, and relatable. There is humor sprinkled throughout, providing a nice balance to the suspense, and making for an enjoyable read.

Fans of cozy mysteries will enjoy the plot twists and Chinese cultural elements. Overall, Peking Duck and Cover is a delightful addition to the series and perfect for those who enjoy a good mystery with a little bit more.

Taste: My Life Through Food

Title: Taste: My Life Through Food
Author: Stanley Tucci
Published: October 5, 2021 by Gallery Books
Format: Hardcover, 291 Pages
Genre: Culinary Memoir

First Sentence: An Introduction. I grew up in an Italian family that, that put great import on food.

Blurb: Before Stanley Tucci became a household name with The Devil Wears Prada, The Hunger Games, and the perfect Negroni, he grew up in an Italian American family that spent every night around the table. He shared the magic of those meals with us in The Tucci Cookbook and The Tucci Table, and now he takes us beyond the recipes and into the stories behind them.

Taste is a reflection on the intersection of food and life, filled with anecdotes about growing up in Westchester, New York, preparing for and filming the foodie films Big Night and Julie & Julia, falling in love over dinner, and teaming up with his wife to create conversation-starting meals for their children. Each morsel of this gastronomic journey through good times and bad, five-star meals and burnt dishes, is as heartfelt and delicious as the last.

Written with Stanley's signature wry humour and nostalgia, Taste is a heartwarming read that will be irresistible for anyone who knows the power of a home-cooked meal.(GoodReads)

My Opinion: Part memoir, part travelogue, part cookbook, Stanley Tucci envelopes the love of all things life has to offer. Well, except for acting, it appears that part of his life lost its luster along the way, even though he isn’t beyond namedropping.

In addition to recipes, Tucci shares antidotes from his travels and how food has always been a core part of who he is. There is a small section at the end where he discusses his cancer diagnosis and how the cancer didn’t scare him as much as the idea that he might never be able to taste and enjoy the food that brought him so much happiness and was a reminder of the people and places of his past.

There is humor in this book – how could there not be. But food, family, and fun are at the forefront and that is what makes this book an enjoyable experience.

The Danish Secret to Happy Kids: How the Viking Way of Raising Children Makes Them Happier, Healthier, and More Independent

Title: The Danish Secret to Happy Kids: How the Viking Way of Raising Children Makes Them Happier, Healthier, and More Independent
Author: Helen Russell
Published: July 9, 2024 by Sourcebooks
Format: Paperback 384 Pages
Genre: Child Rearing

First Sentence: Introduction. The Accidental Dane. I knew I’d passed the point of no return when googling “best axe for children” in a coffee shop while my babies slept outside in their carriage.

Blurb: What do Vikings know about raising children? Turns out, quite a bit. After a decade of living in Denmark, and raising her three kids there, Helen Russell noticed that Nordic kids (or mini-Vikings) are different from children raised in other parts of the world. They eat differently. They learn differently. They play, dress, and even sleep differently. They run, jump, climb, fall and get up again, out in nature, for hours a day. It's cold and wet and uncomfortable—often. But they cope. Even though the weather's terrible and it's dark October through March. And then they grow up to be some of the happiest adults on the planet. So her question how?In The Danish Secret to Happy Kids, Russell dives deep into the parenting culture of Denmark and the other Nordic nations, from parental leave policies to school structure to screen time, uncovering surprising strategies and customs that lead to largely happy, well-adjusted humans over the long term. This fascinating peek behind the cultural curtain allows readers to marvel over infants comfortably sleeping outside in chilly temperatures, school-age kids wielding axes in the woods, and teenagers spending a year or two at efterskole, a special boarding school designed to prepare adolescents for independent life in the real world—a concept that is beginning to be adopted in other nations.Refreshingly funny and unfailingly optimistic about the new generation of humans growing up in the world right now, The Danish Secret to Happy Kids is a heart-warming love letter to Russell's adopted homeland, a comforting armchair travel read, and proof that we could all use a bit more Viking in our everyday lives.

My Opinion: The best part of this book was when the author, Helen Russell, referred to Danish children as mini-Vikings. It made me smile every time.

When I first picked up this book, I thought it would be similar to “Bringing Up Bébé: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting” by Pamela Druckerman, but it turned out to be more of a memoir. The author details her experiences navigating Danish customs, their approach to schooling, how broken bones are just part of life and covered by free medical care, and the importance of fresh air—even if it means leaving your infant outside a restaurant while you dine inside. While I can’t disagree with the culture, it doesn’t translate well to American life, where most of what the Danish do would have CPS at your doorstep before sunset.

By the end, I did enjoy the book, though I found some customs mystifying as they were so far from what I’m used to. A few parts took a while to wrap my head around. There are aspects I wish the US would embrace, like more outdoor play regardless of the weather. The quote “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing” really stuck with me. I found that Danish children learn to read and write later than American children because more emphasis is placed on play, allowing them to explore, learn, and make decisions on their own, which develops social skills like empathy and teamwork. Danish children attend daycare from around 10 months old, with their program subsidized (75%) by the state because Danes understand that childcare pays for itself. There are so many things that cultures can learn from each other for the benefit of children.

The Briar Club

Title: The Briar Club
Author: Kate Quinn
Published: July 9, 2024 by William Morrow
Format: Kindle, Harcover 432 Pages
Genre: Historical Thriller
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: Prologue: thanksgiving 1954, Washington, DC. If these walls could talk. Well, they may not be talking, but they are certainly listening. And watching.

Blurb: Washington, D.C., 1950. Everyone keeps to themselves at Briarwood House, a down-at-the-heels all-female boardinghouse in the heart of the nation’s capital, where secrets hide behind white picket fences. But when the lovely, mysterious widow Grace March moves into the attic, she draws her oddball collection of neighbors into unlikely friendship: poised English beauty Fliss whose facade of perfect wife and mother covers gaping inner wounds; police officer’s daughter Nora, who is entangled with a shadowy gangster; frustrated baseball star Bea, whose career has ended along with the women’s baseball league of WWII; and poisonous, gung-ho Arlene, who has thrown herself into McCarthy’s Red Scare.

Grace’s weekly attic-room dinner parties and window-brewed sun tea become a healing balm on all their lives, but she hides a terrible secret of her own. When a shocking act of violence tears apart the house, the Briar Club women must decide once and for all: Who is the true enemy in their midst?

My Opinion: I didn’t make it very far in this book. At the 12% mark, I was bored out of my mind. I switched to the audiobook, hoping it would be more engaging, but I fell asleep while listening.

Having loved The Alice Network, The Diamond Eye, and The Phoenix Crown, I expected much more from this book. The previous novels captivated me with their rich historical details and compelling characters. Unfortunately, this book didn’t deliver the same level of enjoyment or engagement. The pacing felt slow, and I struggled to connect with the story and its characters.

Overall, it was a disappointing experience, especially given my previous positive experiences with Kate Quinn’s work.

Shelterwood

Title: Shelterwood
Author: Lisa Wingate
Published: June 4, 2024 by Ballantine Books
Format: Kindle, Hardcover, 368 Pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.

First Sentence: Possibly the old man made up stores he told as he saton the bench outside the Dairy queen in Ada, Oklahoma.

Blurb: Oklahoma, 1909. Eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley knows that her stepfather doesn’t have good intentions toward the two Choctaw girls boarded in their home as wards. When the older girl disappears, Ollie flees to the woods, taking six-year-old Nessa with her. Together they begin a perilous journey to the rugged Winding Stair Mountains, the notorious territory of outlaws, treasure hunters, and desperate men. Along the way, Ollie and Nessa form an unlikely band with others like themselves, struggling to stay one step ahead of those who seek to exploit them . . . or worse.

Oklahoma, 1990. Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell arrives at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance a career and single parenthood. But no sooner has Valerie reported for duty than she’s faced with local controversy over the park’s opening, a teenage hiker gone missing from one of the trails, and the long-hidden burial site of three children deep in a cave. Val’s quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but soon collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself.

In this emotional and enveloping novel, Lisa Wingate traces the story of children abandoned by the law and the battle to see justice done. Amid times of deep conflict over who owns the land and its riches, Ollie and Val traverse the wild and beautiful terrain, each leaving behind one life in search of another.

My Opinion: Lisa Wingate’s novels are either a hit or miss for me. Shelterwood, for the most part, was a miss. Set in the Winding Stair Mountains of Oklahoma, the story blends historical and modern narratives: 1909 and 1990. The historical plot follows eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley and a young Choctaw girl named Nessa as they flee from exploitation, showcasing their resilience and determination amidst threats from land barons and outlaws.

In the 1990 timeline, law enforcement ranger Valerie Boren-Odell contends with the demands of her career and single parenthood while uncovering hidden secrets in Horsethief Trail National Park. The discovery of a burial site and the mysterious disappearance of a teenage hiker added layers to this otherwise monotonous narrative.

What began well, fell into a slow and droning middle, only to end with the best part of the book. I suggest you read the first twenty percent, know that the middle seventy percent is about the horrible things greedy people did to native children and the resilience they had to muster, then read the last ten percent to learn how their lives played out.

Bad River

Title: Bad River
Author: Marc Cameron
Published: July 23, 2024 by Kensington
Format: Kindle, Hardcover 368 Pages
Genre: Police Procedural
Source: My thanks to Netgalley and the Publisher for the opportunity to read an advanced copy of this book.
Series: Arliss Cutter #6

First Sentence: Prologue. The first bullet zipped through the fireweed just inches from Arliss Cutter’s ear.

Blurb: From a remote village perched on Arctic permafrost to the Badlands of South Dakota, searching for answers about his brother sets Arliss Cutter on an icy trail of murder and madness into the darkest heart of the Alaskan wilderness.

In the Inupiaq village of Wainwright on the Arctic Ocean, two teenagers discover a frozen body in the permafrost wall of their family’s cellar. They recognize the face through the ice. It is the face of a young woman who went missing—two years ago.

In South Dakota, Arliss Cutter searches for answers surrounding his brother’s mysterious death. But his visit only raises more questions without any leads. Until he returns to Alaska—and learns that his brother had something in common with the frozen body in the ice cellar.

Inside the young woman’s pocket is a fossilized animal tooth—similar to the one Arliss’s brother picked up on a trip to South Dakota. A bizarre coincidence? Or are the two connected somehow? Before Arliss can figure it out, his brother’s widow and children become the targets of a brutal home invasion. Arliss arrives on the scene in time to save them—but his actions trigger a larger investigation that puts his own neck on the line. From South Dakota to Anchorage to the Inupiaq villages of the Arctic, Arliss follows this bloodstained trail of clues to a remote lodge on the banks of the Kobuk River. Here, in this unforgiving wilderness, he will find the answers he seeks. Here, in this untamed, often violent land, he will come face to face with the terrible truth—and the man behind his brother’s murder. (GoodReads)

My Opinion: “Bad River” starts off slowly but soon ramps up with the intense action that readers have come to expect from Marc Cameron. While this installment may not delve as deeply into the “Grumpy Rules” as previous books, it still showcases the extensive array of weapons and tactical gear that Arliss and Lola are known for. The narrative is packed with villains who need to be taken down and heroes who are willing to sacrifice everything to protect their loved ones, and community, from the dangers lurking around every corner. I feel sorry for anyone who dares to threaten someone Arliss cares about or who has touched Lola’s last nerve.

As Arliss and Mim navigate the complexities of redefining their relationship, a new emotional challenge arises in the reappearance of Ursula. Arliss may be adept at handling any adversary, but this emotional hurdle might be his toughest yet. The reappearance of Ursula adds a new layer of emotional depth for Aliss, making “Bad River” not only a thrilling adventure but also a touching exploration of love, loyalty, and what is around the next corner.

The Seven Year Slip

Title: The Seven Year Slip
Author: Ashley Poston
Published: June 27, 2023 by Berkley
Format: Paperback, 352 Pages
Genre: Women's Fiction

First Sentence: “This apartment is magical,” Aunt Analea once said, sitting in her wingback chair the color of robin’s egg, her hair twisted up with a silver dagger hairpin.

Blurb: Sometimes, the worst day of your life happens, and you have to figure out how to live after it.

So Clementine forms a plan to keep her heart safe: work hard, find someone decent to love, and try to remember to chase the moon. The last one is silly and obviously metaphorical, but her aunt always told her that you needed at least one big dream to keep going. And for the last year, that plan has gone off without a hitch. Mostly. The love part is hard because she doesn’t want to get too close to anyone—she isn’t sure her heart can take it.

And then she finds a strange man standing in the kitchen of her late aunt’s apartment. A man with kind eyes and a Southern drawl and a taste for lemon pies. The kind of man that, before it all, she would’ve fallen head-over-heels for. And she might again.

Except, he exists in the past. Seven years ago, to be exact. And she, quite literally, lives seven years in his future.

Her aunt always said the apartment was a pinch in time, a place where moments blended together like watercolors. And Clementine knows that if she lets her heart fall, she’ll be doomed.

After all, love is never a matter of time—but a matter of timing.

My Opinion: I almost gave up on this book. It began slowly and failed to capture my interest. About a third of the way through, I questioned if the issue was my reading pace. Perhaps I was reading too slowly. I decided to speed up, found my rhythm, and then I couldn’t put it down.

There are moments that take your breath away and bring tears when you realize that the seemingly insignificant details were essential to the story. As these elements came together, I bonded with the characters and their tales of being out of sync with time.

Time travel isn’t for everyone; I’ve said that many times. However, this book goes beyond the notion of who will be waiting on the other side of the door. It delves into grief, longing, waiting, acceptance, tears, anger, and ultimately understanding that there is a process, a time and place, that we must all navigate, even if it’s through reading a book that resonates deeply at the right moment.

Will this book appeal to everyone? No, not to the person they are at the moment they read it, but perhaps later, or they may have already missed their time. For the person in the right place and time, it will evoke smiles, tears, and a profound exhale as they wonder if their person is still searching for them.