Blurb: Second-grade teacher Dade Saracina has had all of the military life he could possibly want. He grew up with an ambitious father who moved them all over the world, and now he just wants to put down roots. So the last thing he wants or expects is a handsome, kind, and attention-drawing army major to come to his rescue. Major Clifton Rogers loves a challenge, and he’s been curious about the quiet man who lives near him. Seeing trouble, he jumps into action, and damn near sinks into Dade’s eyes when they meet his. The attraction between them seems undeniable, but Dade keeps him at arm’s length, and once Cliff meets his father, the general, he understands why. As much as Dade resists, Cliff gets past his defenses and works his way into his life and heart. But Dade’s father has definite ideas about what his son should be doing, and he isn’t the kind of person who likes to lose or takes no for an answer. Cliff and Dade are going to need to be certain of what they want in order to stave off the general’s assault on their potential happy ending.
THOUGHTS: Dade’s father is a retired general, who tries to run his son’s life and Dade wants nothing to do with him or the military. Dade meets Cliff, who saves his life when the apartment below Dade’s is on fire. Yes, sparks fly, but unfortunately, Cliff is a West Point graduate and gay. As much as Dade doesn’t want to become involved with him, he can’t deny the pull between them. Unfortunately, Dade’s father does everything he can to come between them, including trying to get Cliff transferred and trying to move Dade to another school. The romance between Cliff and Dade is nicely done. But the best part of the story is the way Dade and his mother stand up to his father and force him to look at the way he’s been treating the family.
Though not one of Mr. Grey’s better stories, it is a good one. Recommended.
Blurb: When one of the girls in ex-CIA spy turned Girl Scout leader, Merry Wrath Ferguson’s, scout troop insists that there’s a sleeper cell in Who’s There, Iowa, Merry laughs it off. After all, she was an actual spy! What would a middle school kid know about things like that? Of course, the fact that it’s Betty, the most dangerous thirteen year old on the planet, does give Merry a little pause. But seriously, in a town of about five thousand people, a group of foreign terrorists would stand out…right? Or so she thinks, until the CIA quietly asks Merry and her former handler Riley to look into it. It doesn’t help that inept-beyond-all-belief FBI agents Summer and Winter (yes, their real names) are also looking into it, or that Merry’s buddy, CIA assassin Hilly, plays hooky from an assignment to help out—by sending the hapless Abed (CIA flunkie and Girl Scout cookie junkie) to float the flounder in her place. Still, Merry thinks this is nothing more than a wild goose chase until a mysterious, elderly woman is murdered. Now, Merry has second thoughts and finds herself in a race to unravel the woman’s past and find the sleeper cell, before she becomes the next target.
THOUGHTS: There are a lot of books in this series and the fun never ends. When you read these, you definitely have to suspend belief. You have to believe that four hamsters can be cops and firemen. Or that a fourteen-year-old can be the innovative mayor of town, and her friend can have connections with multiple shadow groups and know way too much for a young teenager about bombs, poisons, and more. The stories are darkly funny with assassins, CIA agents, murders, and all in a strange little town in Iowa.
In this one, Merry Wrath, an ex-CIA operative and leader of the girl scout group that includes the two above as well as several other teen girls. Unlike the other books, the scouts aren’t as prevalent in this book as in the others. This one centers mostly around Betty, our dangerous security girl as she and Merry and others try to find a sleeper cell. What they find is so much more. From inept sleeper spies to the cop hamsters now working with the fire department–there so much to follow. If you’re liked the other books in the series, you’ll like this one too.
Blurb: You didn’t come this far to play small. Somewhere along the way, you learned how to be capable, reliable, and composed—but not how to fully claim your power. You learned how to succeed, but not how to lead on your own terms. You learned how to perform, but not how to decide. Slay Your Way is for the woman who is done waiting for permission. Written by Sandi Glandt, this bold, no-nonsense guide to personal authority, leadership, and self-mastery challenges women to stop following scripts that were never designed for them—and start building success from clarity, confidence, and conviction. This is not motivation. This is ownership. Through direct insight, strategic mindset shifts, and real-world leadership principles, Slay Your Way teaches you how to take control of your decisions, your direction, and your identity—without apology and without burnout.
THOUGHTS: This was an interesting book. It’s a good source to read if you want learn how to become a better version of yourself. How to set boundaries, gain stronger leadership skills, find success on your own terms. It is a good book for anyone looking to improve themselves and take control of her life.
Blurb: The only thing temp-by-day, rock-star-by night Diana Hudson hates more than karaoke is Christmas. So how did she end up spending a “Good Ol’ Fashioned Family Christmas” in a spooky old house in the Pocono Mountains? Try two parts familial obligation, one part sisterly arm-twisting, and a tiny flame of Christmas spirit still burning in her humbug heart. When The Grands start communing with ghosts, and a long lost boyfriend appears on the doorstep, Diana realizes it’s going to be one heck of a holiday. With a Christmas play to produce, a mystery to solve, and three miracles on the way, Diana keeps her spirits up with a steady flow of Christmas cheer–of the eggnog variety. So settle down in front of the fire, grab a cup of cheer, and join Diana and her family on the wackiest Christmas vacation ever.
THOUGHTS: What a fun story to start off the new year with. Yes, it’s a Christmas story, but it’s still the holidays and this is a great addition to the holiday stories. Plus, it’s relatively short (100 pages). In this one, Queenie is forced to join the rest of her family in the Poconos at the old family home to have an old time family Christmas. With her divorced parents and their spouses, her sister, husband, and their kids, her grands, and more. Including a few ghosts who enjoy leaving messages on her mirror and flicking the lights. And just because it’s Christmas, there are more than a few miracles that happen as well. Join the whole family – living and dead – in this fun holiday story. Recommended.
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.
This was so much fun. It’s a really quick read not just because it fun, but it’s only 89 pages too. In this one, Jamie lives in a little efficiency apartment above landlord Curt. Curt’s niece Maisie shows up one night full of teenage angst and mood. She argues with Curt so Jamie takes her upstairs and they connect over junk food and old TV. The next day, the mystery starts with the disappearance of Jamie and Curt’s neighbor, Jack. As Jamie and Maisie look into his missing, things get weird as reindeer show up and they find out that Jack is a toy maker… and yes, you know where this is going. It all turns out well, especially for Curt and Jamie.
This is the latest in the “Charmed Inn Mysteries” series and if you haven’t read them, you should be! Though each book is a stand-alone, you really need to read the first two in order to get the full understanding of what’s going on. Roxy runs a small family B&B In a small town on the Susquehanna River. There are several family members who help her run the place, but the brunt of the work falls to Roxy. Oh, and there’s a resident ghost in the basement who you can contact through a payphone hidden behind a secret panel behind the welcome desk. Roxy’s family all have “powers”. Roxy’s is getting cryptic answers from books. When she asks a question, if a book throws out sparkles, she picks it ups and words pop out into the air to answer her–unfortunately, the message isn’t always easy to figure out. She also has a boyfriend, Dean, whose brother and his two kids live in the guest cottage behind the inn. And a cook who can be quite grumpy at times. Misty Simon never fails to entertain with her wry wit and saucy sarcasm to go along with a darned good mystery. A lot of cozy mysteries come across on the serious side, but not Ms Simon. You will giggle if not outright laugh at the shenanigans in her books. If you want to smile while being entertained with a puzzle, pick up any one of her mysteries.
This book takes up where the first one left off. Though you don’t need to have read the first one, I strongly suggest that you do – you won’t be disappointed and it will add a lot to this one. When you first start reading this one, you may think it’s an old-fashioned historical western. It is a “western” in that it takes place on a ranch in Wyoming, but it takes place in today’s world. Speaking of worlds, the author does an amazing job putting us there on the ranch and in the surrounding area. There are storms (a lot of storms!!) to deal with, the bitter cold, the dry heat (and fire danger), wild animals, and more. And do yourself a favor and pick up the first one “Chance’s Return” to get the whole experience of Chance, Casey, and the people at North Star Ranch.
I love this book. So much so that I’m going to buy the paperback to replace my ebook because of the story. I so enjoyed every chapter/part of this book. The characters, the world building, the plot – I loved it all. It really struck home for me – maybe because I’m both an avid reader, a writer, and a librarian. It resonated with me on multiple levels. This is such an imaginative book full of fun, twists, and gentle mystery. It is a love story – not just between Rainy and Duke, but between writer and reader. Between you and the book. And as Rainy is fond of saying: “All stories are love stories if you love stories.” Thank you.
“Pencils Down.”
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.
I love this author’s works, but this one was a little dark. Actually, very dark. In this one, a husband and wife have to face their pasts where a young woman was killed. But who killed her? Or was it an accident? There are so many twists and turns in this story—in a good way—that keeps you turning the pages. It encompasses all the issues in a psychological thriller: obsession, secrets, revenge, suspense and more, as well as delving into the past and present. Not all of the characters are someone I’d want to invite to tea, but they are relatable (to an extent).
I live in an area populated by the Amish and Mennonite and many of the recipes in this book are reminiscent of the area. I loved the stories and memoir-like pictures as they bring back memories of stories my father told of growing up on an Amish farm. There are also plenty of color pictures to go with many of the recipes which help. As for the recipes themselves, they are clear, concise, and easy to follow. The author includes such ones like Shoo Fly Pie, Whacky Cake, Tapioca Fluff, Apple Fritters, and Whoopie Pies and so much more. Okay, not all of them are strictly Amish, but they are sooo good. The only slight drawback is that there is no nutritional information, but these are not recipes for the diet conscious. They are full of fat, sugar, and so much deliciousness that you can’t help but enjoy them — on occasion.
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.
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. https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/241121011-yule-regret-it
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).
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.
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.
This was such a fun story. I loved that Jamie Bond’s father was so sure she was going to be a he, that he named her James when she was born. Though she goes by Jamie. I also enjoyed the play between Jamie and her father, Derek. He was a successful P.I. until someone wanted him dead. Jamie left a high-end modeling job to come home to take care of her father and take over the P.I. business. They mostly work divorce cases, but Jamie is determined to find who shot her dad, which gets her into a lot of trouble. The action is good, the suspense ramping up until the end with a sort-of satisfying ending. But also with a tiny thread left dangling that we know there will be more to come. Something I am definitely looking forward to. Amazon
THE POISONED KING: This was an amazing fantasy story aimed at YA readers, but as a senior adult, I really enjoyed it as well. It is the second in the series and you don’t need to have read the first one to know what’s going on, but I strongly recommend that you do, if only to enjoy more of this world. The world building is excellent with impossible animals, scenery, and events to capture your imagination. I especially loved the creatures – especially the royal birds and the gesture language they taught to Anya, the princess. And I laughed out loud at the Harpy for a librarian! The story is peppered throughout with imaginative images and there is an extensive section at the end of the book that shows what the animals look like and describes them and their abilities. Christopher is back in this second book, but the story is more about Anya – though it takes both her and Christopher working together to solve the problems they are faced with. There is a lot of action, adventure, treachery, and revenge—and finding out what your true self is. And the ending definitely satisfied.
The story has the usual crazy family members – Sally’s father Dom who runs the local funeral home and has suspect taste in clothing and social graces; her mother who’s more into fashion than anything else; and her grandmother who can take on anyone, including Ice Pick. Though Sally swears she’ll stay out of the investigation – after all, she has a new baby to consider — that doesn’t happen. Which puts her, her best friend, and one of Guido’s daughters in mortal danger.
Yes, the story, like all the other ones in the series, is full of stereotypes. But it’s so much fun that you have to laugh at it all. And thank goodness for Sally’s grandmother who keeps everyone together, taken care of, and fed! I want her for my granny!
This is a lovely story about two people who have a shared love of art, but come from two different backgrounds. It is a deep romance that shows a lot of conflict between the two until they can put their differences aside and let love conquer all.
I am very familiar with this author’s books – and have been in love with her work from the beginning, and this book is no exception. The world building/descriptions put you right there on the farm with George and Madison. I could almost smell the lavender in the fields. The way she introduces George and his neurodiversity is well-done. And having an autistic person be the hero of the story was so touching. I love the way she introduces him, and the back-and-forth between him and Madison. Plus Madison’s journey from big-city land procurer to farmer’s love interest is perfect. The last scene in the book was the crème-de-la-crème. A HEA ending that leaves you smiling.
Misty Simon never fails to entertain with her witty cozy mysteries. They not only have the mystery, but quirky characters that make you laugh. Yes, there are dark moments – like the murders – but there are also lots of lighter times that let you know these characters could be real people.
This includes a story within a story. The main character, Aubrey, is a new writer attending a private writing retreat being hosted by Willow Fox, a famous author. Aubrey is excited to be there, but there are a lot of underlying tensions that she picks up on. The book opens up with Aubrey working on the first chapter of her book, “Murder for Shore”, a cozy mystery. But after the first workshop, a real murder mystery occurs as Willow ends up dead. Aubrey’s friend, Jenny, is the prime suspect and she feels that it is up to her and her other two friends to prove to the handsome detective Tate that Jenny is innocent. But there are a lot of suspects and everyone seems to have a secret—and a motive. When Aubrey and her friends go snooping, they discover that even the building has secrets. As the mystery unfolds, so does Aubrey’s writing so you get to read Aubrey’s story as she’s writing it. (But it’s not finished before the book is, so you need to read the entire one in “Murder for Shore”.
This was an interesting premise to a story in that it’s written by the main character of another book! I love that the character says who her favorite authors are, including the publisher of this book. LOL The story is actually a good one full of mystery, secrets, and a touch of romance. I also loved that the hero of the story comes across as neurodivergent (autism?) in the beginning but his love for Daphne brings out the hero in him. And there’s a decent ending to both the mystery and a HEA for the romance.
Sparkling Book Reviews 