Stakeouts and Strollers by Rob Phillips

Fiction, Mystery (not cozy)

4****

THOUGHTS: This was a different type of mystery. It’s a little more hard core than a regular cozy, but not as hard as James Patterson or Michael Connelly. Charlie is a brand new PI (thanks to a little fancy paperwork by his boss) who is obsessed with his new baby daughter, which leads to a dead battery on his phone and missing the money pictures of the cheating woman he’s supposed to be following. But when he meets a young (16 yr old) girl who seems to be in trouble while on his stakeout, he knows he has to help her. Unfortunately, helping her leads to all sorts of other problems, including threats to his own family and he can’t have that. The answer is to solve the problems, even when they become dangerous not just for him, but his boss, his cop friend, the girl…and his family.

I loved Charlie. He’s so incredibly inept when it comes to surveillance, which is a surprise since he used to be an award-winning crime reporter for the paper. He adores his family, and, by extension, the young girl. The settings are well-done and the reasons behind the bad guys being who they are twisted, but believable. And there’s a satisfying ending (with a dangling thread that lets us know there will be more).

Recommended.

BLURB: Charlie Shaw is low on sleep. And cash. Otherwise, life is going pretty well for the ex-crime he’s happily married to his college sweetheart, he’s a first-time dad to the most adorable baby girl in existence, and he’s making ends meet as a rookie PI. But when Charlie meets Friday Finley, a frightened sixteen-year-old runaway on a stakeout-gone-wrong, his world gets a little more complicated. Friday is looking for her estranged father Shawn, an unreliable alcoholic who left when she was young—and who also happens to be her only shot at avoiding the foster care system since her mother’s death a few weeks earlier. At first, Charlie believes the man is simply hiding out somewhere, avoiding his responsibilities as usual, but the more he investigates, the more unsettling—and dangerous—Shawn’s disappearance becomes. When his own family is threatened, Charlie realizes he’s in over his head, but can he back out now that he’s begun to care for Friday as his own? A perfect page-turning blend of humor and high stakes, Stakeouts and Strollers is a heartwarming story of fatherhood, family, and what it really means to be a “Girl Dad.”

Review: The Valentina Esposito Mysteries by Joe Giordano

Fiction, Anthology, Mysteries, Short Stories

4****

REVIEW: This is a series of short stories that were all published at one time or another in magazines. They are all connected through the main character, Valentina. She is definitely not your typical cozy mystery heroine. She was raised by nuns in an orphanage, escaped as a teen, turned tricks to earn money, got adopted by a woman who owns an Italian restaurant, finds out she’s the daughter of a mob boss and has two half-brothers, one of whom is the mob boss’s bodyguard/trouble shooter. She also works as a cyber-crime contractor for the FBI and has a police detective for a boyfriend. In each story, she is tasked by friends or acquaintances with a challenge that often leads her into dangerous situations. She relies on her wits and her brother (the bodyguard) to get her out of them. Each story is different, but Valentina, her father, brothers, and adoptive mother appear in every one. If I had any detractors at all, it was that her background is repeated in each story, becoming a bit repetitive. But the stories are entertaining and different. Though there is no HEA in any of them, they do give you an ending to the story – not always a happy one, but the story is concluded. And since they are short stories, you can read one over lunch each day.

Recommended.

BLURB: Valentina Esposito is an unlikely hero thrust into extraordinary circumstances. Abandoned as an infant to an orphanage, she’s rewritten her destiny by becoming a brilliant computer programmer with a thirst for adventure. Turns out, her biological father Frank Provati is an underboss of the Ruggerio Crime Family. With an FBI cyber consulting contract and Jack Slade, an NYPD detective boyfriend, she straddles the line between law enforcers and the lawless. The Valentina Esposito Mysteries is a collection of seven short stories.

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Review: Think, Act, and Feel Better with CBT: Practical Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Tools for Life’s Ups and Downs by Gianna LaLota

Nonfiction, Self-Help, Mental Wellness

4****

REVIEW: This was an interesting book in that it contains self-help suggestions for multiple issues such as conditions (anxiety, ADHD, stress, depression), emotions (anger, fear, guilt, sadness, shame), thought patterns (inner critic, lack of motivation, low confidence, perfectionism), and changing your behaviors (procrastination, unhealthy habits, etc.). Many people are challenged with several of these situations so this book gives them guides to more than just one. The writing is clear and easy to understand and follow. There are also appendices that give you places to go for more information. Overall, a decent book.

Recommended.

BLURB: Simple, effective CBT skills tailored for common challenges like anxiety, perfectionism, procrastination, insomnia, and more. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is a powerful, evidence-based psychotherapy for managing mental health conditions like anxiety disorders, depression, and ADHD. However, it’s also popular for coping with daily-life issues, like procrastination and insomnia, because its structured, goal-oriented approach and focus on problem-solving can offer rapid relief to anyone facing tough times. By helping people think through the connections between their thoughts, emotions, behaviors, and physical reactions, CBT helps them act in ways that make them feel better. With Think, Act, and Feel Better with CBT, you can achieve measurable relief from chronic stress, anger, overthinking, people-pleasing, and other barriers to good mental health and greater well-being
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/237849120-think-act-and-feel-better-with-cbt

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

@penguinrandomehouse #partner “Thanks for the free/gifted book, @penguinrandomhouse” #sponsored

Review: Wild Watercolor

Nonfiction, Crafts, Painting

5*****

REVIEW: This is a beautiful book. Focusing on natural subjects like birds, animals, flowers, etc. The lessons contain vibrant pictures and clear explanations. You start with the first week with a simple sky with clouds and end up 36 lessons later with the advanced prickly pear cactus flower. It’s a comprehensive book that is great for beginners or amateurs looking to hone their skills with watercolor. The front chapter introduces the types of paint, brushes, and paper you need. The author stresses that you should purchase the best you can afford. I wish she had offered more budget-friendly options, but I understand the need for quality materials. She also gives you a list of other supplies that are helpful for the artist. I liked how each lesson gives you the techniques to be used, the materials and colors needed, the steps from first drawing to finished project.

Recommended.

BLURB: Unleash your creativity and embrace the joy of watercolor painting with “Wild Watercolor: Weekly Lessons and Techniques for Stunning Creations”. Renowned artist and teacher Karen Elaine guides you through 36 captivating watercolor projects designed to take you from beginner to advanced level, one week at a time.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231188298-wild-watercolor

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

@penguinrandomehouse #partner “Thanks for the free/gifted book, @penguinrandomhouse” #sponsored

Review: Ultimate Origami Challenge Kit for Kids 8-12: Fun Projects and Step-by-Step Folding Techniques to Go from Novice to Pro by Brian Soonho Yoon

Nonfiction, Crafts, Kids

4****

REVIEW: I have always been fascinated by origami – creating imaginative items out of just folded paper. This kit – it’s called a kit because it contains multiple sheets of origami paper in a folder in the back of the book – moves you from simple folds to ones that are more difficult. The front material explains what the different folds are (mountain, valley, etc.) and how to do them. Then there are thirty projects for you to do. Each project contains pictures of the finished piece, and detailed instructions and illustrations. My only problem with the book is the age level. I (an adult) attempted to do some of the projects and just could not get even some of the “easy” ones right. I handed it over to a teen I know and asked her to do some of them and she also had some issues. Maybe it is only doable by younger kids! Still, we had fun trying them and seeing which one of us could do them (she beat me). I suggest that if you’re going to give this to a younger child, that you plan on spending some time with them. And you might find yourself having some fun too.

Recommended with caution as to age level.

Blurb: Discover the magic of origami and learn key techniques to create animals, 3D shapes, or gifts for loved ones from paper!Packed with 30 unique projects, including an inflatable bunny, flapping crane, throwing star, and pyramid, Ultimate Origami Challenge Kit for Kids 8–12 takes budding paper-folding enthusiasts from novice to pro. With fun facts, step-by-step instructions, and all the folding papers you need, kids can launch into creating a paper universe and build the confidence and skills to complete each challenge. Unfold the joy of Ultimate Origami Challenge Kit for Kids 8–12, CHALLENGING Kids progress at their own pace to gain and build on skills needed to advance from Apprentice to Specialist. Watch their confidence soar! BEGINNER-FRIENDLY FOLDING Dive straight in with bright folding papers and transform them to life. Generously sized at 7 x 7-inch squares, the 90 included sheets are perfect for new origamists. ENRICHING BRAIN Origami fosters curious minds by engaging developing brains through 3D perception, problem solving, logical thinking, hand-eye coordination, fine-motor skills, mental concentration, geometry, spatial awareness, and more! COLORFUL ARTWORK AND ILLUSTRATED Beautiful artwork is included to spark creativity. Plus, detailed illustrations are perfect for different learning styles and encourage independent problem solving.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/230862166-ultimate-origami-challenge-kit-for-kids-8-12

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

#sponsored @penguinrandomhouse #partner

“Thanks for the free/gifted book, @penguinrandomhouse

Review: The Daily Artist’s Way by Julia Cameron

Nonfiction, Creativity, Inspiration

5*****

Review: If you’ve never used the original “The Artist’s Way” book, this is a good place to start. It basically takes all the information from the book and breaks it down into daily challenges then adds inspirational quotes and prompts to get you moving on what you want to do. As in the book, the author suggests writing morning pages—three pages, handwritten, first thing in the morning. But she also encourages you to take walks, make artist’s dates with yourself, and to be open to creativity. In addition, there is an appendix at the end that gives you 52 ideas for your artist’s dates in case you can’t think of one yourself. I’ve been in love with the Artist’s Way for years and this is just a new addition to the group. One suggestion, though, I’d get this as an actual book rather than as an e-book. I think that would make it easier to work with. Just my opinion.

Recommended.

Blurb: The Daily Artist’s Way is an inspirational collection of 365 daily reminders for a creative life, all from Julia Cameron, whose book The Artist’s Way has transformed the lives of millions. Now, readers can easily and immediately apply Artist’s Way practices to their lives day by day with this essential guidebook. Each day’s lesson contains vital and relevant ideas culled from Julia’s vast body of work, as well as powerful Artist’s Way Affirmations to help readers embody their most creative selves. Whether you are looking to write a bestseller or simply add a bit more creativity to your everyday life, The Daily Artist’s Way is a sure way to achieve life-changing results – all you have to do is take it one day at a time.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231817692-the-daily-artist-s-way

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

#TheDailyArtistsWay #Netgalley

Fiction, Cozy Mystery

4****

REVIEW: Oh. My. Word. Calamity Jayne is a disaster waiting to happen – a hilarious one! In this, the fourth in the series, she is attending classes in the nearby college in order to get some credits in journalism. While working on a class project in investigative reporting, she stumbles onto a story that could be big for her in both her grade and her part time job at the paper. Her cousin and his girlfriend are taking a class in criminal justice and someone seems to be using the class syllabus to commit crimes. At first they start out small – a little mischief, some theft, etc. but they escalate to sexual assault and murder. Jayne has multiple suspects, but when she finally figures out who it is, it’s almost too late for her and her brother’s girlfriend.
In addition, she’s juggling three men in her life – the cop, the ranger, and the bad boy. And her feisty grandmother. And a car that keeps breaking down.
Jayne is the perfectly imperfect character. Authors are supposed to build characters with flaws and Jayne has a ton of them. The biggest one is her impulsiveness as it gets her into a lot of trouble. The world building/scene setting is well done and the mystery keeps most people guessing. Okay, I knew who it was, early on, but that doesn’t mean I didn’t enjoy the story. Definitely looking for more in this series.
Recommended.

BLURB: What does a blonde get on her intelligence test?
Drool.

Ace cub reporter Tressa Jayne Turner is carrying a full load–and we’re not talking post-holiday pounds. Back in college for the fourth time (but who’s counting!?), “Calamity Jayne” is looking to nab a raise from her stingy boss at the Gazette, Stan. So, what’s to stop her from making the grade? Well, for starters her grandmother turned roommate rekindling an old flame, maid of honor madness run amok, a botched betrothal that’s more than just schoolyard gossip, and a campus criminal who is out to teach the student body a lesson… one crime at a time. As Tressa navigates the halls of higher education, she finds herself torn not only between homework and investigating, but also between a man who likes her for herself and another man who wants to save her from herself. It’s a case of murder and mayhem by the books…and failure is so not an option.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/18726221-calamity-jayne-and-the-campus-caper

Fiction, Cozy Mystery

5*****

Review: I had a lot of fun with this story. I don’t know if you’re too young to remember, but years ago, there was a TV show called “Remington Steel” where a young woman created an imaginary man to be the head of her detective agency. This book has a similar premise in that the two sleuths – Marty (Martha) Hudson and her friend Irene Adler use Sherlock Holmes as their boss, but he is conveniently always out of the country. Oh, and the Moriarty siblings are Marty and Irene’s rivals in the PI business (thought technically, Marty and Irene are not PIs).

Marty is a barista on a college campus and she inherited a run-down Victorian that needs extensive repairs while she lives in an equally run-down apartment building. Irene, on the other hand, has all kinds of money thanks to being a genius and computer expert. Add in a paroled plumber and an ME who is very interested in Marty (and isn’t bad to look at either).

The characters are fun, the world building interesting, and the mystery satisfying with lots of suspects and clues throughout. And a satisfying ending that leaves a string dangling so we know there are going to be more stories in this series (considering this is #3, that’s a given). You don’t need to have read the others to understand all this, but I suggest that you do.

Recommended.

Blurb: Martha “Marty” Hudson thought her lie about working for a great detective named Sherlock Holmes was supposed to be a onetime thing. Okay, maybe two times, but when her best friend Irene Adler drags Marty along to meet “Sherlock’s” latest client, Marty is pretty sure they’re in over their heads at playing private eye.Cordelia Westerbury is a wealthy widow… one who is certain that one of her no-good family members is trying to bump her off for their inheritance. While her evidence is less than convincing, she’s willing to pay generously to have the ladies of Holmes Investigations attend a cocktail party where all her “suspects” will be assembled. At first Marty thinks maybe the woman has read a few too many Gothic novels. But when the cocktail party ends in an actual dead body, Marty begins to realize that batty or not, Cordelia is right about one there is a killer in their midst. Is it the pompous nephew with expensive habits and shallow pockets? His gold-digging wife who may be more scheming than her flighty persona suggests? The brooding millennial granddaughter who uses her disdain for just about everything as the perfect cover-up? Or the long-lost cousin who conveniently shows up just as Cordelia’s contemplating a change in her will? Marty isn’t sure, but the stakes only go higher when a new private detective firm, Moriarty Investigations, sets themselves up as Sherlock’s arch nemesis, trying to poach his clients.Between juggling a family of suspects, the distractingly gorgeous Medical Examiner, Dr. Watson, the annoyingly competent Moriartys, and an investigative reporter bent on outing Sherlock Holmes as a fake, Marty has her hands more than full. But when the killer sets his sight on Marty and Irene, Sherlock’s biggest case just may end up being their last…

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58653831-sherlock-holmes-and-the-case-of-the-wealthy-widow

Fiction, Social Awareness, Paranormal

5*****

Review: This is a very short story with a bit of a paranormal type twist. The main character is just a few days shy of graduating from high school, stuck in class and dreaming about being done, when a vision appears to her. Suddenly, she’s in his world and viewing his struggles to bring water to his village. When she “awakens” she’s back in class and eager to help. The author does an excellent job of showing the characters’ differences, not just in setting, but in inequity of life. This is a very real problem for a lot of people – lack of water and food. If this story convinces even one person to help, then it is a job well done.

Recommended.

Blurb: Juliet can’t wait to graduate from high school and finally move on with her life. Five more days and she’s free. She gazes out the window while her history teacher, Mrs. Johnson, drones on about war, famine and lack of water in Africa. A gong rings, startling Juliet out of her daydream. She looks around to see if it was one of her classmates pulling a prank when a little boy carrying a spear appears. Is he a ghost or something more? He pleads for her help and before she can argue, she is transported to a small village in Africa. History comes alive like never before and Juliet must decide how she can help Noko and his village before it’s too late. Thirsty for Water: A Short Story tells the story of Africa and the need for water in an approachable way for children of all ages. A great learning tool for teachers, parents and libraries.

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/23341801-thirsty-for-water

Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Northwoods Mystery Series #4

5*****

THOUGHTS: I love this series. I love the characters, the lodge and campground, and the town. I want to live there!

Okay, enough about that. We are back in the Northwoods at the Cooper Campground with Emmy Cooper and her family. It’s Christmas and everyone is amped up to get the town decorated for the annual Covington Christmas Celebration. Unfortunately, a dead body wearing a Santa suit in the restaurant owner’s office could put a definite damper on things. Even though Emmy promises her boyfriend, cop Dean, that she won’t investigate, how can she not? I love Emmy and her family and friends. The town is definitely a Hallmark setting. You feel like you’re really there in the town with them. And the ending leaves you with a smile and a good feeling.

Definitely recommended.

BLURB: It’s Christmastime in the Northwoods, and Emmy Cooper is ready to deck the halls, frost the cookies, and enjoy Covington’s biggest event of the year—the annual Christmas Celebration. Visitors flock to the festive lakeside town, where Emmy’s family runs the Cooper’s Cove Resort, for holiday treats, handmade crafts, and the beloved tree-lighting ceremony, led by none other than Santa Claus himself. But when Emmy stumbles across a very dead Santa, the season takes a chilling turn. With Emmy’s boyfriend, Officer Dean Erickson, trying to keep the investigation under wraps, Emmy and her best friend Whitney find themselves more tangled in this mystery than in last year’s Christmas lights. Between town gossip, a Scrooge of a new health inspector, and long-buried secrets rising to the surface, Emmy’s holiday cheer is draining faster than Ol’ Robert’s eggnog. Unraveling the killer’s identity might take a Christmas miracle—and Emmy’s running out of time. If she’s not careful, she just might be the next one sleighed.