It’s time once again for the favorite (5*****) books of the year. Over the next few days, I’ll highlight my favorites for the year. I ask you to remember that reviews are subjective. What I love, you may not, and the opposite is true as well. But here we go:

JANUARY:

The Traveler’s Guide to the Lucky Gryphon: Recipes and Regalings

Hello there, traveler! Welcome to The Lucky Gryphon, the most magical tavern in the Crossroads. We’ve been expecting you. Your quest is keep this book safe. What you’re holding is a journal unlike any other. This book will reveal some of the tavern’s history, as well as scraps of insight on mine and Minthie’s origins. There are even some personal notes from the others that call The Lucky Gryphon home. “A Traveler’s Guide to The Lucky Recipes & Regalings” is a cross between a fantasy storybook and cookbook. Accompanying each recipe is a short story detailing the recipe’s origin, lore about the tavern, or a personal tale from one of the tavern keepers, Quincy and Minthie. With over 60 illustrations depicting everything from savory meals to sweet desserts, delicious drinks and easy snacks, there’s something in here for every foodie. From the archives of Minthie’s Library to you, this book is perfect for any fan of magic, fantasy, and food.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/198923676-a-traveler-s-guide-to-the-lucky-gryphon

THE GIFT OF THE MALTIPOO by Andrew Grey

Fiction, Short (89 pages), Contemporary Romance, M/M

4****

Tyler knows getting his mother a dog as a Christmas gift is a bad idea, even if she’d like to have company while she undergoes chemo. But he stops at a dog rescue on the way home anyway… and leaves with an injured Maltipoo named Daisy who follows him like he has bacon in his pockets. So much for getting a dog for his mom. Maybe Tyler’s the one who needs company anyway. After all, he’s been mooning over his neighbor, Anthony, for months. Suddenly, when he’s out walking Daisy, his little ice-breaker, Anthony approaches him about attending his law firm’s Christmas event—as Anthony’s date. Can Daisy work her magic and bring Tyler the best Christmas gift ever?

THOUGHTS: This was a sweet, fun Christmas story with an adorable dog at front and center. And the couple of Tyler and Anthony isn’t too bad either. Tyler is struggling with helping his mother through chemo and doesn’t have time for romance, but when the cute neighbor asks him to his work Christmas party, how can he say no? The two work through their connection, helping Tyler’s mother, and bringing Daisy the adorable dog into the fold.

Recommended.

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”

SUCH A COZY MYSTERY by Haley Jordan

Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Small Town Florida

4****

Blurb: Oh, bother!Rosie Alexander has a lot of problems, such as juggling running her cross-stitch shop with caring for her beloved husband, who has Alzheimer’s. She doesn’t need the aggravation of a pushy customer who shows up with an old, mysterious cross-stitch sampler he wants appraised. She definitely doesn’t need the aggravation of that same sampler getting stolen…with a dead body left behind. And when another murder happens in her orbit, a former friend is implicated, and an aggravating reporter tries to paint her as running a multi-national crime ring? Maybe she should adopt a dog. Because they’re not aggravating at all. This is the first book in a contemporary cozy mystery series set in the small town of Cozy, Florida.

THOUGHTS: The main character, Rosie, is a very likable character. Having gone through some of her challenges, I could relate to her through her struggles with her husband, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s through my in-laws and parents. The author presented the emotions and frustration with this insidious disease perfectly. The plot was well laid out, except that I knew who the killer was from early on. But enough other suspects were thrown in to make it still a question. Overall, an entertaining cozy mystery and a good start to a series.

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”

A Walk Down Memory Lane: Short Stories for Seniors to Spark Joy & Stay Sharp by Sarah Bracey White

Nonfiction, Short Stories, Large Pring

5*****

Blurb: …offers 50 uplifting short stories in easy-to-read, enlarged print. From childhood adventures to world events, these nostalgic tales–set between the 1950s and 1980s–bring to life the moments that defined a generation. Relive the simple joys of a neighborhood paper route, the thrill of a homecoming game, the awe of watching Neil Armstrong take his giant leap for mankind. Each story is paired with gentle prompts to encourage reflection, conversation, and connection. Discover the benefits of daily stories to keep the mind sharp–perfect for quiet reading or sharing aloud.

Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book, mostly because, yes, it was definitely a walk down memory lane for me. The stories are very short – no more than two or three pages and with large print that makes them physically easy to read. They encompass the years between the 1950s to the 1980s. Also, each story includes prompts to encourage the reader to reflect on our own experiences or for group conversations.

I highly recommend this book for seniors, senior community libraries, or personal care attendants to purchase and not only enjoy, but put to use writing down our own memories and experiences.

Recommended.

The main character, Rosie, is a very likable character. Having gone through some of her challenges, I could relate to her through her struggles with her husband, diagnosed with early-onset Alzheimer’s through my in-laws and parents. The author presented the emotions and frustration with this insidious disease perfectly. The plot was well laid out, except that I knew who the killer was from early on. But enough other suspects were thrown in to make it still a question. Overall, an entertaining cozy mystery and a good start to a series.

Disclosure of Material: Thanks to PenguinRandomHouse for this book. 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”
@penguinrandomhouse #partner

Review: From the Flames by Andrew Grey

Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Gay, M/M

4****

Blurb: College professor and widower Willy Daugherty is trying to keep his life together for the sake of his kids, but when their apartment building catches fire, everything they have goes up in flames. In the middle of the night, he finds himself homeless and wondering what to do next. Thankfully one of the firefighters, Kevin St. Claire, not only rescues them from the building but comes to the hospital and offers them all a place to stay for the night. Kevin is used to seeing people who’ve lost everything because of a fire, but something about the homeless father and two kids gets under his skin… and into his heart to fill a loneliness he didn’t even know was there. When he brings them home, his three dogs take to the family with gusto. Then the fire that brought Willy and the kids into his life turns even more problematic. Code violations led to the fire spreading more quickly than it should have. As Willy and Kevin investigate, they come up against forces that would rather turn a blind eye. Can they protect the new family they’re building, or will it all go up in flames once more?

THOUGHTS: This is a nice addition to the Carlisle Fire series. I guess I love the series so much because I know Carlisle. It’s nice to “stroll” the familiar streets. This book is a good mix of romance, mystery, kids, dogs, fun and angst. In this one, Professor Willy Doughtery and his kids are burned out of their house. With everything lost, they don’t know what to do. Kevin, a firefighter, loses his heart to them and invites them to stay with him until they can get settled somewhere. As Kevin is looking into the fire, he discovers some things that could mean more than just a normal fire. He wants to keep his “made up” family safe, but there are people who could make serious trouble for them.

This is a good mix of romance and mystery. There are sweet moments with kids and dogs; and angst along with love – and some heat.

Recommended.

BROKEN BRANCHES by Darlene Fredette

Fiction, Contemporary Romance, novella

5*****

Blurb: Some branches break, but where hearts once shattered, love dares to bloom again.
Police officer Tyler Kringle has kept his heart guarded since Maripier Nadeau disappeared from his life. Years ago, a devastating family tragedy forced her to leave Redford Falls, leaving Tyler to pick up the pieces of their broken relationship. Now she’s returned to care for her father and honor her late mother, reigniting memories and emotions Tyler thought he had buried. As long-hidden truths emerge, Maripier must choose whether to prune the past or nurture a future with the man she has always loved. No longer is she the shy girl who once dreamed of running away with her childhood sweetheart. Now, Maripier is strong and prepared to confront their complicated history. But was it fair to ask Tyler to share the quiet burden she carries?

THOUGHTS: This is a good addition to the Redford Falls series. It’s a sweet, contemporary romance set in a small town in the spring. Tyler is a local cop who lost his heart a long time ago to Maripier. But after a family tragedy, she left town unexpectedly without a word to move to Quebec. When her father has an accident that brings her back to town, Maripier and Tyler see each other and realize their feelings never went away, even after eleven years. But there are a lot of secrets that need to be revealed before the two can move forward. And then there’s Tasha, Tyler’s niece who’s got a lot of problems of her own.

I really enjoyed this story, though I did have a little trouble pronouncing Maripier’s name. J And I loved that Thumper, the match-making rabbit showed up at the beginning. I almost wish he had hopped past Tyler and Maripier when they were sitting beneath the old apple tree. For me, that would have been the perfect ending, but the one the author gave us was really good too.

If you’re looking for a sweet romance that gives you a satisfying HEA, definitely pick this one up. You won’t be sorry.

Recommended.

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”

DESSERT IS THE BOMB by Catherine Bruns

Fiction, Cozy Mystery

4****

BLURB: Baker turned sometimes-sleuth Sally Muccio has always loved Halloween, but this year she has more on her mind than ghosts and goblins. In addition to catering a party at her wacky father’s funeral home, a competing bakery has just moved in across the street from Sally’s Samples. The new owner, Celeste Delgado, seems intent on burying Sal’s novelty cookie shop into the ground with her sensational smash cake bombs. Suddenly, the homemade fortune cookies that Sal and her best friend Josie create with loving care are predicting an ominous future for their business. Before Sal can discover what’s behind Celeste’s grudge, the woman is killed by an explosion. To take the cake, Josie was heard threatening Celeste shortly before her death. A night in the slammer, another deadly explosion, and dangerous family secrets all add to Sal’s growing list of concerns. Like an oven timer, precious minutes of her life are ticking away. Can she find Celeste’s killer before everything blows up in her face?

THOUGHTS: Wow, there are a lot of bombs going on in this story – from cake bombs to the real “blow up” thing. And Sally Muccio has to figure out who’s creating the explosions before she becomes one of the victims!

This is part of the “Cookies and Chance” series and I love these stories, especially the whole Muccio family. They are kooky and fun and I want her grandmother for myself! In this one, Sally is startled to find out that a bakery that carries a lot more than cookies has opened up across the street from her. And the woman has a major grudge against Sally. But before Sally can figure out why, the woman—Celeste—is blown up – In Sally’s father’s hearse! And Sally is the main suspect. It’s up to her, her best friend Josie, and their friends to find out who is setting the bombs off and why before Sally becomes the next victim.

This is a fun cozy with all the usual things you expect from a cozy — small town, amateur sleuth, big secrets someone is willing to kill for, and more. A quirky family helps. And an interesting twist at the end that ties everything up. Nicely done!

Recommended.

Review: THE ULTIMATE MAZE CHALLENGE from Zeitgeist

Nonfiction, YA Puzzle book

5*****

Blurb: Explore and conquer 175 exciting mazes in this brain-boosting activity book that kids won’t want to put down! Tired of hearing “I’m bored”? Entertain your kid with The Ultimate Maze Challenge!, a supersized activity book packed with 175 easy to hard mazes that will keep them engaged for hours at a time! Each themed maze is a mini journey, from animal adventures and space missions to daring mythical quests. And with additional maze challenges, including timed mazes, pattern mazes, and number mazes, this book will boost your kid’s attention span, sharpen their focus, and improve their problem-solving skills. Packed with hours of screen-free, puzzle-solving fun, this is the ultimate way to keep your kids engaged, challenged, and smiling!

THOUGHTS: This book is advertised as being for kids ages 8-12, but I have to say that some of the puzzles really challenged me, and I am definitely older than 8-12. I had a lot of fun with them, though. There is a wide variety of shapes and sizes and skill levels. And they are themed with sections on animals, gizmos, galaxies, athletics, food, and more. And yes, there are answers included in the back of the book. I recommend this for anyone who likes to do maze puzzles, no matter your age.

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” Thanks to Zeitgeist for providing this advanced copy.

From twelve USA Today bestselling and award-winning authors, comes a short story collection stuffed full of mirthful mysteries, clever criminals, and holiday cheer! These short holiday bites are perfect for enjoying between rounds of wrapping or binge-reading over a cup of cocoa! 

​Stories include:

A Hometown Christmas Caper (Hometown Mysteries)
by Rosalie Spielman

Gossip, Guilt & Gingerbread (Coffee & Cream Café Mysteries)
by Lena Gregory

Larceny & Twinkle Lights (Jamie Winters Mysteries)
by Kelly Rey

Holidays & Heists (Aloha Lagoon Mysteries)
by Anne Marie Stoddard

Ornaments, Surprise & Dead Guys (Gianna Mancini Mysteries)
by Jennifer Fischetto

It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Mischief (Northwoods Mysteries)
by Annie McEwen

You Can’t see the Forest for the Christmas Trees (Modern Midwife Mysteries)
by Christine Knapp

Jingle Bell Rocker (Sunny Side Up Mysteries)
by Misty Simon

Holly, Handcuffs, and Hearsay (Camelot Flowers Mysteries)
by Erica Wynters

Search for the Silent Santa (Ghost Town Mysteries)
by Jamie L. Adams

Nothing But Truffle (Cookies & Chance Mysteries)
by Catherine Bruns

A Heartland Homicide (Bourbon B&B Mysteries)
by Gin Jones
 ​Coming December 2!

https://www.gemmahallidaypublishing.com/holiday

PATH TO STARDOM by Kelly Fletcher

Fiction, Contemporary Romance

5*****

Blurb: Sometimes you just need coffee. I’ve got my hands full with my kindergarten class in suburban Atlanta. But when my school turns into a film location for a movie, I’m thrilled to get a break so I can watch Hollywood heartthrob Ridge Wilson in action. The next thing I know, I’ve accidentally spilled coffee all over his expensive shirt. Instead of being mad and acting like an entitled celebrity, Ridge asks me to hang out with him in his private trailer. It’s only fitting I reciprocate and offer him a home-cooked meal at my house, right? I hardly notice his famous chiseled features and rock-hard biceps when it’s just the two of us. We definitely have chemistry, and when his film wraps, I’m stunned when he invites me to visit him in California during my fall break. While I’m there, my entire world is upended when he confesses a secret that could turn Hollywood into a paparazzi-feeding frenzy. Ridge doesn’t expect me to get mixed up in all his drama. And I don’t want to keep teetering on whatever fine line this is we’ve created between us. But America’s most famous eligible bachelor needs me – and I need him…

THOUGHTS: I absolutely love Kelly Fletcher’s books. And this one is no exception. From the first meet between Beverly and Ridge in the elementary school library, even the Fates knew these two belonged together. Okay, so it was just a little hokey when she spilled her coffee on his shirt and the stain ended up in the shape of a heart But it was also kismet. Beverly and Ridge have issues – especially Ridge. Not just because of his job, but secrets in his past. But they face their troubles with courage and aplomb, including small-town Beverly being thrown into the spotlights that come with dating a handsome star. But, as in all of the author’s romances, there’s a happily ever after ending that satisfies.

If you’re looking for a sweet romance that makes you smile and go “awww”, pick this one up, and the other books by this author. You won’t be sorry.

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”