This is a clever, well-constructed story that is part current time, part glimpses into the past. A past that is both true and tragic. Based in part on actual events that occurred in South Dakota in the 1880s and the 1970s, the story centers around the Pine Ridge Lakota tribe. As the daughter of a history buff, I grew up knowing about Wounded Knee and the events that transpired there. In this book, Sierra Masters’ old flame, Hunter, shows up at her home one day with photos that shock her and change everything she ever knew. Hunter is a film documentarian. She discovers that she was adopted and that her parents were part of the fight between the Native Americans and corrupted government. The descriptions of the Badlands are beautifully done, putting you right there in that stark landscape. But what really draws you in are the descriptions of the massacres that took place and the awful treatment at the hands of the white men. The terror and devastation are real. And Sierra “sees” it all as it happened. An evocative story with deeper meaning than just a good read – though it is definitely that. I also loved the reading list at the end so the reader can find out more information on this period of history.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58926515-whispers-through-time

This is the fourth book in the author’s Haunted Shores Mysteries. In this one, the main character, Darrell, his wife and 5-year-old son, Leo, drive from Maryland to Michigan to help his aunt celebrate her eightieth birthday. Along the way, Darrell discovers that his son has inherited his “gift” of being able to see ghosts. At a stop outside of Pittsburg, they visit a historical site of the Monogahela tribes… helping out these ghosts is the last thing Darrell wants to get involved with. Unfortunately, the fates have different plans for him as both he and Leo see the ghost of the missing Sheila and learn that she is not the only one to have gone missing recently. While trying to enjoy family time, they discover there are darker things going on in the small town of Saugatuck and the surrounding area.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/233778534-red-shadows-at-saugatuck

 I loved this story! I was expecting your standard cozy, but this is so much more. From the main character being part of a secret government experiment earlier in her life that lets her see ghosts, to the digital coding (and learning new words about it!) and the Russian mafia. She starts a business doing crochet and pulls in her best friend, juvie sister (Oona), sister’s friend (Jasmine), and the elderly Mary’s from the local church to help. Her brother is a cop and his partner is a hunk (of course). They find Jasmine’s boyfriend and his brother dead and the fun (not!) begins. There really is a lot going on in this story (loved the hidden basement!) and I can definitely see more books coming for Breezy and her “team”. This one has a satisfying ending with a surprise twist. Yes, it all may be a bit much for some people, but I really did enjoy this. And the crochet pattern at the end is a bonus. Definitely going to try that one.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/127466841-first-time-s-a-yarn

Wow. This book grabbed me from the first page and didn’t let go until the last. Luma is a good character, as are the others in the story. She is the one the elves have been looking for for twelve years—the one who will help free them from the wizards of another world who want to take over their world. There is action (a lot!), treachery, friendship, and even a dragon! She has to figure out how to come to terms with the fact that she is an elf and her life on Earth was an unfortunate accident of fate. She has no memory of before she got there, or of her powers, or how to use them, but everyone is depending on her to save the elf world. Unfortunately, there are just as many people who don’t want her to do it. If you’re looking for a decent fantasy story with lots of twists and turns, treachery and friendship, long lost love, and a war that could end multiple worlds. Or help them. Then you need to pick this one up. Definitely worth reading. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/231904027-daughter-of-starlight

Oy vey! What a fun story! This is the second in a series and takes place at a Jewish home for seniors. Rose is at it once again with her friends to figure out who killed the nasty Vera Gold and why. It may be the day for atonement, but that’s not happening. I absolutely love Rose and can “hear” her voice in my head as I read (she sounds a little like Barbra Streisand in “Funny Girl”). There a lot of Yiddish terms that the author does a good job of explaining without being over the top with it. And a few misses on Rose’s part – like when she talks about the Hippo laws (HIPAA). The imagery puts you right there, for instance when talking about the big store surrounded with a black moat lined with white stripes (parking lot). https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/59695699-a-pain-in-the-tuchis-a-mrs-kaplan-mystery

This was a really good murder mystery with lots of suspects and lots of family angst going on. I found it interesting that the two sisters who live there are very protective of the youngest sister’s 3-year-old son to the point that they won’t let Jess near him. They eventually reveal that he is autistic and doesn’t take well to strangers. The author had me guessing until the very end – which I loved. And there was a satisfying ending that lets you know the family will be a family in total as Jess realizes that she needs to be there for hers. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/200055363-my-old-kentucky-homicide

Wow. There are not enough words to describe how intense and fantastical this book is. It is full of angst, passion, action, danger, betrayal, and more. The world-building is beyond scope, drawing you immediately into Kel’s world. In this one, all the action centers around phoenix birds. Yes, the mythological birds that burn to a crisp, then are reborn. Only in this one, they are huge and are used by riders in races. Flaming races that can get you killed. From the first page where Kel, a trainer, is racing her phoenix, Savita in order to earn enough money to save her home, you are drawn into her world. An unfortunate accident gets her rider killed and she is forced to take on another rider—Coup—an arrogant rider with too much attitude. But there’s something about him that both draws Kel and repels her. They, along with Coup’s brother and Kel’s best friend reluctantly agree to work for a large company who can provide Kel with everything she needs to save Savita from being taken away for her debts. But it comes with a price that might be too high for them to pay. The only downside I found to this was the end – and the missing epilogue in this ARC. I really, really wanted to know what happened to Kel and Savita! Maybe in the print version? Or a second book? I hope so.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/215700931-of-flame-and-fury

Welcome to the Sunny Side Up Diner, where the jukeboxes jive and the secrets thrive…

 I fell in love with this series with the first book and this one was a good addition. In this one, Jax is trying to help her best friend Dani prove that Dani’s mother didn’t kill off her old enemy. They come up with a lot of suspects, but almost all paths lead to Nancy (Dani’s mom). As bad as Dani’s relationship is with her mom—and it is nasty—Nancy is still her mother. So Jax, her new beau Eliot, Dani, and Dani’s new boyfriend Ian go into sleuth mode and look for the real killer. But there are a lot of snags along the way. Like threatening notes left on Jax’s windshield.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/223920338-put-another-crime-in-the-jukebox

A Valentine’s Day mystery full of sassy ladies, cute shoes, and even a cameo by the incomparable Betty White!

What a cute short story – just perfect for a quick read on Valentine’s Day (or any day). Maddie is tired of her husband (homicide detective) cancelling their plans at the last minute so she plans a special night just for them – but she has to help solve the death of Dana’s friend Peach before Maddie’s husband can get the night off. And it turns out to be a lot different than she thought!

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/10333985-sweetheart-in-high-heels

This is an excellent book to begin with for the study of numerology. There is a lot of detailed information on each number and how they can apply to our daily lives. She even included a small section on how each number applies to the tarot, astrology, and gemstones. I would have liked more on this, but that was such a minor detail that it didn’t make a difference.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/220239054-guided-numerology-workbook

FROM MARCH:

This was a fun read that I really enjoyed. Any young teen who enjoys a good mystery will love this one. Skylar is a 13-year-old girl who loves solving mysteries (thanks to her detective grandfather). Her parents buy a ramshackle mansion that once belonged to an heiress whose last words were that anyone who is brave enough to follow the clues will find her jewels – so that is what Skylar sets out to do, even when faced with a gang of thugs who are out to beat her to the jewels.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/53033394-the-mystery-of-the-hidden-jewels

This was a good paranormal romance. And the first one I’ve read with Bigfoot as the hero. But the author did such a good job with building the world, that it works and works well. In this one, Marnie is a librarian who was “downsized” from her job when another one pops up in an ad. Before she knows it, she is headed for Mystic Springs as the new head (and only) librarian. Then things get really strange. On her way there, she has a flat tire – and swears she saw Bigfoot. And the people in the small town—quite a few of them—aren’t exactly friendly to her. Except for a few, like Susan, who invited her there, and Eve, who runs the local diner, and then there’s Clint. A lumberjack-type man who captures her interest, and her heart.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52890945-bigfoot-and-the-librarian

 

How would you like to have a top-level writing workshop for less than twenty bucks? You’ll get that in this book. You’ll find activities to help you consolidate ideas, create characters, develop settings, and come up with a plot as well as write and revise your novel. No, you will not write a full novel in seven days, but you will find strategies to help unblock you, if needed, or get going on that novel. The author gives you advice in a clear, concise manner that you can come back to again and again. It is useful for both the beginner and experienced writer.

https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/218115898-the-one-week-writing-workshop

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.