VERA WONG’S GUIDE TO SNOOPING (ON A DEAD MAN) by Jesse Q. Sutanto

Fiction, Cozy Mystery

3***

Blurb: Ever since a man was found dead in Vera’s teahouse, life has been good. For Vera that is. She’s surrounded by loved ones, her shop is bustling, and best of all, her son, Tilly, has a girlfriend! All thanks to Vera, because Tilly’s girlfriend is none other than Officer Selena Gray. The very same Officer Gray that she had harassed while investigating the teahouse murder. Still, Vera wishes more dead bodies would pop up in her shop, but one mustn’t be ungrateful, even if one is slightly…bored. Then Vera comes across a distressed young woman who is obviously in need of her kindly guidance. The young woman is looking for a missing friend. Fortunately, while cat-sitting at Tilly and Selena’s, Vera finds a treasure Selena’s briefcase. Inside is a file about the death of an enigmatic influencer—who also happens to be the friend that the young woman was looking for. Online, Xander had it a parade of private jets, fabulous parties with socialites, and a burgeoning career as a social media influencer. The only problem is, after his body is fished out of Mission Bay, the police can’t seem to actually identify him. Who is Xander Lin? Nobody knows. Every contact is a dead end. Everybody claims not to know him, not even his parents. Vera is determined to solve Xander’s murder. After all, doing so would surely be a big favor to Selena, and there is nothing she wouldn’t do for her future daughter-in-law.

Thoughts: This was a good story and the character of Vera grew on me – though to be honest, I didn’t like her at first. It wasn’t the “voice” – though that took me some time to get into – but more her meddling and insistence on certain things. But by the end of the book, I understood her a lot better and got where she was coming from. What the reader has to understand is that this is the way Chinese mothers are (and a lot of other mothers too!) They want the best for their children and if that means getting mixed up in a murder/human trafficking case, that’s what they’ll do. So when Vera befriends a young woman whose friend dies, she tries to help the girl figure out what happened. Which will also benefit her son’s soon-to-be fiancé (hopefully!). But Vera has no idea of the huge case she is opening up and how much trouble it will bring her.

Recommended with the caveat of the horrible practice of human trafficking and what goes with it.

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 Netgalley and the publisher, Berkley, for providing this book.

THE BEAST OF AROS CASTLE by Heather McCollum

Fiction, Historical Romance, Scottish

4****

Blurb: Ava Sutton is on the run from a dangerous man and makes her way safely to Scotland. Masquerading as a titled, English lady, she must convince the darkly handsome chief of the Macleans of Aros to wed her before she is tracked down. Tor Maclean, the new chief of Aros Castle, has sworn off marriage. Despite his efforts to scare away the Englishwoman his father arranged for him to wed, Tor is nonetheless drawn to her passion and beauty. But he doesn’t know if he can forgive the untruths that have come to light for a chance at a once in a lifetime love…

Thoughts: I really enjoyed this story. Yes, the characters came across as a bit standard: the grouchy Scottish laird who doesn’t trust women, especially English women; the plucky English woman who stands up to him; the villagers, etc. And yes, there could have been a bit more description in the settings, but… for a bit of escapism with a couple of twists that got my interest and a HEA that satisfies, I say nicely done. So if all you’re looking for is a decent story with a hot Scot and a stubborn lass, go for it.

Recommended.

FATAL STAND by Michelle Godard-Richer

Fiction, Thriller, #3 in series

5*****

Blurb: Two years earlier, Jessica witnesses a serial killer, David, in action, and becomes his next target. With help from Jon, a former FBI agent, she manages to survive his murderous wrath and believes him dead. On the day of their daughter’s birth, Jessica and Jon learn David is alive and plans to come after them again. Running with a newborn daughter and a nine-year-old son isn’t an option. Instead, they fortify their homestead with high fences and a sophisticated security system, preparing to make a final stand. Despite being surrounded by allies, Jessica struggles to care for her newborn under the strain of their living situation. Alone in the night, she sees and hears things the cameras don’t capture. She questions her sanity but refuses to break, determined to protect her family from the monster of her nightmares—David. David can’t forgive Jessica, and he can’t move on. Instead, time fuels his obsessive need for revenge. With a new identity and a surgically altered face, they’ll never see him coming.

Thoughts: This is an intense story. It’s the third in a series, but you don’t have to have read the first two in order to know what’s going on (though I do recommend it). The author gives you enough clues as to the background without hitting you over the head with the facts.

In this one, Jessica and Jon are secured on a ranch with fences, cameras, guards, and more – and they still don’t feel safe from the wrath of their stalker, David. Jessica has just given birth to a girl and they have Jessica’s 9-year-old son with them. They go on with their lives, but with a sword hanging over their heads. Jessica is sure their problems with David aren’t over.

And they’re not. Things come to a head and all the security in the world can’t stop a madman bent on revenge from getting in.

This is a thriller that grabs you from the beginning and doesn’t let you go until the very end.

Recommended.

Disclaimer: 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”

DEADLY DIRTY MARTINIS by

Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Thanksgiving

4****

Blurb: From USA Today bestselling authors Nicole Leiren and Elizabeth Ashby comes a Thanksgiving mystery that will keep you guessing!Lilly Waters is loving life as the new assistant manager at the Smugglers’ Tavern in the small town of Danger Cove. So the last thing she wants or expects is an impromptu family reunion with the wannabe-rock star dad and his number-one-fan (her mother) who were noticeably absent from her childhood. Not only does Lilly have her hands full dealing with Mom and Dad who act more like teenagers than parents, but she also finds herself in hot water when the son of a Chicago mob boss is murdered on tavern property. Now Lilly’s mom is the number one suspect, and Lilly isn’t sure where her loyalties lie.The search for answers leads Lilly down a dangerous path where she uncovers more suspects than she can say Thanksgiving grace over—including a tattooed trouble maker, a gambler who turned against the mob, and even her own father! All their motivations prove dirtier than her signature martinis, and if Lilly doesn’t get to the truth soon, not only will dinner be ruined, but the killer may serve her up on a silver platter.

Thoughts: This is #18 in the Danger Cove Mystery Series and they are all fun books. I love the town, the characters, the interaction between the books even though they’re by different authors. They do tie to one another in various ways and I recommend them all. What’s even better is that you don’t have to have read them all (though you should!). Each one is a stand-alone story even in the same series.

In this one, Lilly is managing the Smuggler’s Tavern while the boss, Hope, is away. Though she hopes everything will be nice and calm, that doesn’t happen as a band shows up – with her long lost mother and father. Of course things don’t go smoothly, especially when their manager ends up dead. And with him being the son of a Chicago mobster, things go from bad to worse, especially when her mother is accused of the deed. Lilly spends the book dealing with her feelings of seeing her parents after they abandoned her 24 years ago to be raised by her grandmother. With mobsters. With her boyfriend’s family. With a dear friend who has to leave… and more.

The only thing that kept me from giving this 5 stars was Lilly and driving. She makes a point of riding her bike everywhere and doesn’t even have a driver’s license. So how and why is she driving her boyfriend’s truck? That really didn’t work for me.

Beyond that, definitely recommended!

Disclaimer: 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”

THE HAPPINESS CURE by Dr. Anders Hansen

Nonfiction, Self-help, Psychology

4****

Blurb: Find long-term meaning and contentment in the journey of life with The Happiness Cure by internationally bestselling, award-winning psychiatrist and viral TEDx speaker Dr. Anders Hansen. As a species, we’ve never had it so good. We’re living longer and healthier lives than ever before; the sum of human knowledge and endless entertainment are only ever a few clicks away. So why are we in the midst of a mental health crisis? In The Happiness Cure, psychiatrist and well-being guru Dr. Anders Hansen presents a groundbreaking guide that explores the evolutionary roots of happiness and provides practical steps to help readers find true fulfillment. By combining cutting-edge neuroscientific research with relatable stories of ordinary individuals, Dr. Hansen offers a fresh perspective that challenges conventional the human brain isn’t naturally wired for happiness. The Happiness Cure provides actionable strategies to navigate the complexities of modern life, finding joy along the way. With expertise and credibility, Dr. Anders Hansen empowers readers to take charge of their own happiness journey. Embark on a transformative path toward long-term contentment and discover the keys to a more fulfilling life.

Thoughts: I thought this was a good book on finding contentment, not necessarily happiness. There is a lot of science and psychology here, but it’s presented in an easy-to-read format that is understandable even for those of us without psychology degrees. He goes into the history of mankind and why we’re not wired for constant happiness. He also explores the reasons behind anxiety, depression, and loneliness. I found it interesting that he equates long-term loneliness with an increase risk of death that is akin to smoking. But in the end, the best things we can do for ourselves are to eat well, sleep well, and exercise. Those are the paths to happiness.

Recommended.

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book from Zeitgeist (Penguin Random House) 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”

@zeitgeist #partner

@penguinrandomhouse #partner

A CELTIC YULETIDE CAROL by Jennifer Ivy Walker

Fiction, Historical Romance

5*****

Blurb: Once a royal Breton knight, Sir Cardin de Landuc is now infamously known as Basati, the Basque Wolf. Savage and sullen, he drowns his guilt in raucous taverns, accruing enormous debt and acquiring vengeful enemies. Ulla, widowed daughter of a Viking chieftain, is a skilled archer who lives as a recluse in a secluded woodland cottage. Rendered mute by trauma, she avoids humans, preferring the company of her wild wolf and falcon as she hunts in the Forest of Brocéliande. When his mother’s dying wish calls Basati home, he finally meets the son he abandoned at birth and Ulla, the enigmatic priestess who is teaching the boy to hunt. As the holidays approach, Basati finds himself smitten with the beguiling beauty as he bonds with his once forsaken child. But past enemies plot against him, and Basati is ensnared in darkness. Can music lure the savage wolf into the light of love?

Thoughts: The imagery alone in this book is worth the read. The author puts you right there, smelling the pine forest, feeling the stiff hairs on the wolf’s coat over the soft undercoat, the sounds of battle… The prose is very descriptive. This is a strong story with great characters who definitely have flaws and issues and they grow and change through the story – at least, the two main characters do, as they should.

Cardin, aka Basati, is a fallen knight who—after losing his beloved wife in childbirth— spends his days drinking, gambling, and fighting and wants nothing to do with his 6 year old son. His brother, also a knight, spends a lot of his time hauling his drunken brother back to their quarters. Ulla has also suffered great loss, and the horror of losing her husband and son has rendered her mute. But she is a healer who is bound to help those she can. When the two meet, a bond begins to grow and some of their hurts begin to heal.

The author’s research into the medieval time period is obvious, but not overdone. The story is well-written and there’s a HEA ending that satisfies.

Recommended.

HERBAL MEDICINE FOR MODERN LIFE by Ruth Blanding

Nonfiction, Self-help,

4****

Blurb: Protect, heal, and revitalize your health with herbal remedies crafted to treat ailments from modern living. In today’s busy world, our disconnection from the earth has led to an overreliance on health interventions that don’t always work. With Herbal Medicine for Modern Life, you’ll discover the enduring wisdom of plant medicine with an herbalist who draws on her connection to the ancestors and nature to support health and wellness. With her expert advice, you’ll learn how to benefit from the folkloric use of plants: how to use them to heal the root causes of many modern ailments and bring you back to feeling balanced, healthy, and whole again. 

• Ancient Remedies for Modern Needs. Learn to tap into traditional medicine for modern health issues like anxiety, allergies, hormone imbalances, and more.
• Approachable, Affordable Herbalism. Make safe and powerful herbal medicine in the comfort of your home with easy-to-source medicinal plants and everyday tools.
• Profiles of Powerful Medicinal Plants. Discover more than 35 medicinal herbs with photos and details about therapeutic actions, contraindications, and healing qualities. 
• Wide Range of Herbal Remedies. Follow step-by-step recipes to craft infusions, tinctures, syrups, balms, powders, and other common herbal preparations.

Thoughts: If you’ve ever thought of trying herbal remedies to cure what ails you, this is a good place to start. The introduction alone is comprehensive with insights and cautions about the world of herbal medicine. She goes into the history of using plant-based remedies as well as cautions like “if you’re allergic to this, don’t use that” and working with your physician/herbalist if you are on medications.

There are two basic sections: The herbs and then the problems/remedies. In the herbal section, she describes each of the 35 plants in detail, what part of the plant is used, cautions, allergens, and color pictures. In the remedy section, she gives some common problems, like migraines or headaches, what to use, and how to prepare and use them. I will note that there are a lot of steps to some of these remedies. And they use a lot more than just one or two herbs. She also goes into different ways to use them: tea, capsules, tinctures, syrups, etc. And stresses that this is not a cure for a serious ailment, that you need to work with your medical team if you want to use them because there can be serious contraindications with some.

Overall, I thought this a good basic book with a lot of great information.

Recommended.

Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book from Zeitgeist (Penguin Random House) 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”

@zeitgeist #partner

@penguinrandomhouse #partner

PLANES, CANDY CANES, AND HEARSES by Catherine Bruns

Fiction, Cozy Mystery, Christmas Short Story

5*****

Blurb: It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas for Sally Muccio. The part-time sleuth and full-time baker is up to her elbows in sugar and a puzzling mystery that threatens to ruin her jolly holiday… As Sal and her good friend Josie prepare to close their bakery to enjoy Christmas Eve, as well as Sal’s daughter’s birthday, a last-minute sojourn to the airport interferes. Sal mistakenly thinks this will be a quick outing to pick up her father from a business trip. But with the weather outside frightful, and her delightful father nowhere to be found, her fears quickly begin to escalate. Where is Domenic Muccio, and why isn’t he answering his phone? And who is the mysterious companion he was seen leaving the airport with? If Sal doesn’t find her father soon, no one will be rocking around the Christmas tree. Includes a delicious recipe for candy cane cookies!

Thoughts: What a cute holiday book! This is part of the “Cookies & Chance” mystery series and is a fun addition to the series. In this one, Sally Muccio – part-time sleuth, full-time baker – has to go to the airport to pick up her father and take him home for the family holiday festivities. In addition, she’s eight months pregnant… and it’s snowing. So her friend Josie takes her to the airport, where they find Sal’s father’s luggage, but not him. They spend hours trying to find him – then get strange messages that he was seen driving his hearse (he’s an undertaker) but has disappeared again. The story goes through all the craziness they go through trying to find Dominic. But the ending – pure holiday joy and magic.

Definitely recommended for a quick, sweet magical holiday read. Oh, and I loved the cookie recipe!

Disclaimer: 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”