Tuesday, November 12, 2019

Review: Mrs. Morris and The Ghost by: Traci Wilton

Title: Mrs. Morris and The Ghost
Author: Traci Wilton
Publisher: Kensington
Series: Salem B&B Mystery #1
Pages: 298
Format: e-book ARC
Source: NetGalley

Description:

Charlene Morris knew Salem, Massachusetts had a spooky reputation. But when she decided to open her B&B there, she expected guests--not ghosts...

A grieving young widow, Charlene needed a new start--so she bought a historic mansion, sight unseen, and drove from Chicago to New England to start turning it into a bed-and-breakfast. On her first night in the house, she awakens to find a handsome man with startling blue eyes in her bedroom. Terror turns to utter disbelief when he politely introduces himself as Jack Strathmore--and explains that he used to live here--when he was alive. 

He firmly believes that someone pushed him down the stairs three years ago, and he won't be able to leave until someone figures out who. If Charlene wants to get her business up and running in time for the Halloween tourist rush, and get this haunting house guest out of the way, she'll have to investigate. Though truth be told, this ghost is starting to grow on her . . .

My Thoughts:

This book follows Charlene whose trying to move after the death of her husband and open the b & b he wanted to open with her.  What she didn't count on in the small Salem town is having a ghost at her b&b. 

Jack Strathmore is a ghost trapped in his house he bought with his wife he hadn't counted on Charlene or the fact that anyone could see him.  He is desperate to find out what happened and who was responsible in the situation.  Could Charlene help him to the other side?  And more importantly would she?

When Jack's wife winds up dead the pressure is on to get to the answer of course some people in town wonder why Charlene is obsessed with an old death?  Is Charlene really her to run a b&b or is she here to stir up old wounds?

I read this as part of a book club and loved it.  The story flowed smoothly and brought you in and had you wanting more.  Learning more about Jack and what happened whose to blame.   At the end I was pleasantly surprised and couldn't have predicted the outcome.  Definitely an author I will check out every time there is a new book!

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Monday, November 11, 2019

Review: The Inn by: James Patterson & Candice Fox

Title: The Inn
Author: James Patterson & Candice Fox
Publisher: Little Brown & Co
Pages: 400
Format: Hardcover
Source: Library

Description:

James Patterson's strongest team since the Women's Murder Club are the first responders when their seafront town is targeted by vicious criminals.

The Inn at Gloucester stands alone on the rocky shoreline. Its seclusion suits former Boston police detective Bill Robinson, novice owner and innkeeper. As long as the dozen residents pay their rent, Robinson doesn't ask any questions. Neither does Sheriff Clayton Spears, who lives on the second floor.

Then Mitchell Cline arrives, with a deadly new way of doing business. His crew of local killers break laws, deal drugs, and bring violence to the front door of the Inn. That's when Robinson realizes, with the help of journalist Susan Solie, that leaving the city is no escape from the reality of evil -- or the responsibility for action.

Teaming up with Sheriff Spears and two fearless residents -- Army veteran Nick Jones and groundskeeper Effie Johnson -- Robinson begins a risky defense. The solitary inhabitants of the Inn will have to learn, before time runs out, that their only choice is between standing together -- or dying alone.

My Thoughts:

Bill Robinson once a honorable cop is now a former detective and is running an inn in Gloucester with his wife.  When she winds up dead after a car accident Bill tries to continue what they started but drugs seem to be running rampant.  Bill has a curious mixture of residents at the Inn from a Sherriff Spears to Army Vet Nick Jones  they all offer up something and willing to help get to the bottom of what is going on in town.  They will handle this together or die trying.

This book was such fun to read and really smooth sailing.  It pulled you in and you found yourself generally caring about the people at the inn and what they were going through..  While not typical James Patterson characters they still brought something to the situation and pulled together like a family would.  

I can only hope someday Mr. Patterson will go back to the inn and let us see what they are up to!  I think others will enjoy this book for the thriller it is.
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Sunday, November 10, 2019

Review: The Nightingale by: Kristin Hannah

Title: The NIghtingale
Author: Kristin Hannah
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Pages: 440
Format: Hardcover
Source: NetGalley & Library

Description:

In love we find out who we want to be. In war we find out who we are.

France, 1939
In the quiet village of Carriveau, Vianne Mauriac says goodbye to her husband, Antoine, as he heads for the Front. She doesn’t believe that the Nazis will invade France...but invade they do, in droves of marching soldiers, in caravans of trucks and tanks, in planes that fill the skies and drop bombs upon the innocent. When France is overrun, Vianne is forced to take an enemy into her house, and suddenly her every move is watched; her life and her child’s life is at constant risk. Without food or money or hope, as danger escalates around her, she must make one terrible choice after another.

Vianne’s sister, Isabelle, is a rebellious eighteen-year-old girl, searching for purpose with all the reckless passion of youth. While thousands of Parisians march into the unknown terrors of war, she meets the compelling and mysterious Gäetan, a partisan who believes the French can fight the Nazis from within France, and she falls in love as only the young can...completely. When he betrays her, Isabelle races headlong into danger and joins the Resistance, never looking back or giving a thought to the real--and deadly--consequences.

My Thoughts: 

Vianne and Isabelle have both had different lives which become shockingly difficult with the war in 1939 Vianne has to say goodbye to her husband whose called to war.  Isabelle is sent home from another boarding school she has gotten in trouble with and begs her father to let her stay.  He ends up sending her to her sister as the war progresses.

You get in this book a realness of the war and what people went through, what the underground did to help people and what they go through when they are caught.  This book was so captivating it has taken me a while to digest what these two girls went through how they both handled the war differently.  In the end you end up with a strong appreciation of what these french women went through and how they managed with what they were handed.

Definitely a great book for French fans during that time frame you felt like you were going around with the girls and seeing what they saw and how they dealt with things.
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Saturday, November 9, 2019

Review: Mr. Churchill's Secretary by; Susan Elia MacNeal

Title: Mr. Churchill's Secretary
Author: Susan Elia MacNeal
Publisher: Bantam
Series: Maggie Hope Mystery #1
Pages: 328
Format: Paperback
Source: Library

Description:

For fans of Jacqueline Winspear, Laurie R. King, and Anne Perry, Mr. Churchill’s Secretary captures the drama of an era of unprecedented challenge—and the greatness that rose to meet it.

London, 1940. Winston Churchill has just been sworn in, war rages across the Channel, and the threat of a Blitz looms larger by the day. But none of this deters Maggie Hope. She graduated at the top of her college class and possesses all the skills of the finest minds in British intelligence, but her gender qualifies her only to be the newest typist at No. 10 Downing Street. Her indefatigable spirit and remarkable gifts for codebreaking, though, rival those of even the highest men in government, and Maggie finds that working for the prime minister affords her a level of clearance she could never have imagined—and opportunities she will not let pass. In troubled, deadly times, with air-raid sirens sending multitudes underground, access to the War Rooms also exposes Maggie to the machinations of a menacing faction determined to do whatever it takes to change the course of history.

Ensnared in a web of spies, murder, and intrigue, Maggie must work quickly to balance her duty to King and Country with her chances for survival. And when she unravels a mystery that points toward her own family’s hidden secrets, she’ll discover that her quick wits are all that stand between an assassin’s murderous plan and Churchill himself.

In this daring debut, Susan Elia MacNeal blends meticulous research on the era, psychological insight into Winston Churchill, and the creation of a riveting main character,  Maggie Hope, into a spectacularly crafted novel. 

My Thoughts: 

This book follows Maggie Hope whose living in London and looking for a job unfortunately most girls are reduced to minimal work and Maggie is smarter than most of the men around her.  She ends up working for Mr. Churchill and helps decode messages whether they want her help or not.  Someone is out killing girls and people are trying to figure out whose doing the killing and why?

I loved reading about Maggie Hope and what she goes through and how she doesn't let her sex determined what she will do in life.  She fights for what she is passionate about.  Definitely a great period piece, you get a feel for the war and what London was going through in that time period and how the United States was not involved at all with it.  Other than supplying things to London.


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Tuesday, October 15, 2019

Review: Clambake Murder by: Summer Prescott

Title: Clambake Murder
Author: Summer Prescott
Publisher: Maven Publishing Co.
Series: Rocky Cove Culinary Cozy #2
Pages: 137
Format: e-book
Source: Kindle

Description:

*This is book 2 in the Rocky Cove Culinary Cozy Series*

Clambake Caterer Becca Rogers is back from her Caribbean vacation ready to plunge headlong into the busy season. With back to back weddings and more beachfront clambakes than she can handle, Becca has no idea of the heart-pounding thrills and chills she’s about to experience, and how grateful she’ll be to be rescued by her hero-in-residence, the handsome and shy Detective Lance Reynolds.

My Thoughts: 

Becca is back from her vacation and ready to get to work for the upcoming season.  What she didn't count on was vandalism in the neighborhood.  Someone is determined to drive Becca and her neighbors from staying in their homes.  Add murder to the mix and Becca really wonders what is going on and when will it end?

I loved how Becca kept trudging through the bad trying to find ways to solve issues going on at work and at home.  I also appreciated how Becca won't settle.  Definitely a great cozy mystery that can be enjoyed quickly and wanting you looking for more!
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Monday, October 14, 2019

Review: New England Clam Murder by: Summer Prescott

Title: New England Clam Murder
Author: Summer Prescott
Publisher: Maven Publishing Co.
Series: Rocky Cove Culinary Cozy #1
Pages: 137
Format: e-book
Source: Kindle

Description:

*This is book 1 in the Rocky Cove Culinary Cozy Series*

New England Clam Murder is a fast-paced romp through the dignified halls of the New England's society set.

Divorced caterer Becca Rogers feels more than a little bit out of her league when she roams the ballrooms of the rich and shameless, serving the finest seafood in the region. Finding herself smack dab in the middle of a very mysterious set of circumstances when her ex-husband’s new socialite wife is murdered, Becca’s normal existence gets turned upside down as she learns that nothing is as it seems and no one can be trusted. Filled with twists, turns and a lively cast of characters, this Cozy Mystery will keep you guessing until the very end.

My Thoughts: 

Becca Rogers is working with her catering business at fancy parties for the rich and famous when she ends up bumping into her ex-husband Simon's new wife Lacey.  After an angry confrontation with Lacey, Becca goes home unable to accept how she let the woman get to her.  Of course the next day Becca learns that Lacey is dead.  Who killed Lacey and why?

Someone seems to be pointing the guilty finger at Becca no matter what she does.  If she can't figure it out will she be the one in the orange jumpsuit?

I enjoyed this cute little novella and hope to read more from Ms. Prescott.  She has a definite style with her story telling.  Can't wait to see what is next for Becca and her friends.
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Saturday, September 21, 2019

Review: Toucan Keep A Secret by: Donna Andrews

Title: Toucan Keep A Secret
Author: Donna Andrews
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Series: Meg Langslow #23
Pages: 294
Format: e-book
Source: NetGalley

Description:

A new side-splitting Meg Langslow mystery from award-winning, New York Times bestselling author of Gone Gull.

Meg Langslow is at Trinity Episcopal locking up after an event and checking on the toucan Meg's friend Rev. Robyn Smith is fostering in her office. After hearing a hammering in the columbarium (the small building where cremated remains are held), Meg finds an elderly parishioner lying dead on the floor of the crypt. Several niches have been chiseled open; several urns knocked out; and amid the spilled ashes is a gold ring with a huge red stone.

The curmudgeonly victim had become disgruntled with the church and ranted all over town about taking back his wife's ashes. Did someone who had it in for him follow him to the columbarium? Or was the motive grave robbery? Or did he see someone breaking in and investigate? Why was the ruby left behind?

While the Chief Burke investigates the murder, Robyn recruits Meg to contact the families of the people whose ashes were disturbed. During this task, Meg learns many secrets about Caerphilly's history--and finds that the toucan may play a role in unmasking the killer. Clues and events indicate that a thief broke into the church to steal the toucan the night of the murder, so Meg decides to set a trap for the would-be toucan thief--who might also be the killer.

Toucan Keep a Secret is the twenty-third book in New York Times bestselling author Donna Andrews' hilarious Mag Langslow mystery series. 

My Thoughts: 

Meg is watching over the church while the pregnant pastor Robyn suffers at home on bedrest.  When Meg discovers someone is the columbarium when she investigates she finds a dead body.  Robyn asks Meg to make the arrangements for the disturbed crypts to be reburied.  The victim being investigated for his death leads to a long ago burglary.  As Meg investigates the heat seems to be on her by people wanting her out of the way!  Will she figure it out or get herself knocked out!

I love Meg and her family and friends.  We also get to follow Meg as she investigates the crypts that were disturbed which coincide with the robbery! It was a mystery inside a mystery one of the greatest ones there are!  Can't wait to see what is next for Meg and her family and friends!
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Friday, September 20, 2019

Review: Killer in The Kitchen by: Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain

Title: Killer in the Kitchen
Author: Jessica Fletcher & Donald Bain
Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime
Series: Murder She Wrote #43
Pages: 266
Format: Hardcover
Source: Library

Description:

In the latest in the "USA Today" bestselling series, someone writes a recipe for murder.

Jessica loves the Leg & Claw restaurant, owned by young couple Brad and Marcie. And the restaurant is the couple s dream come true. But when famed chef Gerard Pepe Lebeouf decides to open an eatery right next to theirs, tensions rise fast and hot and lead to a nasty confrontation between Lebeouf and Brad. So when Lebeouf is found dead with a knife planted in his chest, Brad becomes suspect number one. But plenty of others had a motive to kill Pepe, and it s up to Jessica to uncover who really added murder to the menu."

My Thoughts:

Jessica is invited to Brad & Marcie's grand opening of their restaurant and while there with Seth witnesses an altercation between Brad and Gerard Lebeouf whose in the process of opening his own restaurant and dismissing anyone else who runs a restaurant.

When Gerard ends up dead Brad ends up in the hot seat as the town knows about the altercation and Brad's whereabouts for that night are sketchy at best!  Jessica feels determined to find out what happened and who killed Gerard in hopes of freeing Brad from the noose!

I love this series such fun like being back in Cabot Cove it feels like your reading the show that brought many into their living rooms when it aired.  You get the pleasure of Seth and Mort in all their glory.  And of course Jessica at her finest solving another crime!  Can't wait to see what is next in this series!
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Sunday, September 8, 2019

Review: Harvest of Secrets by: Ellen Crosby

Title: Harvest of Secrets
Author: Ellen Crosby
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Series: Wine Country Mysteries #9
Pages: 352
Format: e-book
Source: NetGalley

Description:

The search for the killer of an aristocratic French winemaker who was Lucie Montgomery's first crush and the discovery of dark family secrets put Lucie on a collision course with a murderer.

It's harvest season at Montgomery Estate Vineyard--the busiest time of year for winemakers in Atoka, Virginia. A skull is unearthed near Lucie Montgomery's family cemetery, and the discovery of the bones coincides with the arrival of handsome, wealthy aristocrat Jean-Claude de Marignac. He's come to be the head winemaker at neighboring La Vigne Cellars, but he's no stranger to Lucie--he was her first crush twenty years ago when she spent a summer in France.

Not long after his arrival, Jean-Claude is found dead, and while there is no shortage of suspects who are angry or jealous of his ego and overbearing ways, suspicion falls on Miguel Otero, an immigrant worker at La Vigne, who recently quarreled with Jean-Claude. When Miguel disappears, Lucie receives an ultimatum from her own employees: prove Miguel's innocence or none of the immigrant community will work for her during the harvest. As Lucie hunts for Jean-Claude's killer and continues to search for the identity of the skeleton abandoned in the cemetery, she is blindsided by a decades-old secret that shatters everything she thought she knew about her family. Now facing a wrenching emotional choice, Lucie must decide whether it's finally time to tell the truth and hurt those she loves the most, or keep silent and let past secrets remain dead and buried.

My Thoughts:

This book follows Lucie Montgomery and her friends and family as they are getting ready for storm approaching when an old crush of Lucie's comes back into town working at another vineyard.  Jean-Claude approaches Lucie about someone out to kill him.  Lucie dismisses the drama as she has more to deal with the impending storm than the drama of Jean-Claude.  When he ends up dead and the heat is on Lucie's cousin she knows she has to get to the bottom of it.  Add that murder to a skeleton showing up on Lucie's property and a family secret come to light.  With so much going on will Lucie figure it out or will she wind up the next victim?

I love this series.  The writing pulls you in and won't let you go wondering how Lucie will piece it all together in time or won't she?  I especially like when a crime from the past is involved to because you are more determined to piece it all together and learn more about the Montgomery's. Can't wait to see what is next for Lucie and her friends and family!
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Monday, September 2, 2019

Review: Lark! The Herald Angels Sing by: Donna Andrews

Title: Lark! The Herald Angels Sing
Author: Donna Andrews
Publisher: Minotaur Books
Series: Meg Langslow #24
Pages: 279
Format: Hardcover
Source: Library

Description:

Away in a manger, asleep on the hay, Meg Langslow finds a little gift.

For four previous Christmases, New York Times bestselling author Donna Andrews has delighted readers with holiday mysteries, full of Christmas cheer and starring her quirky characters. Now she gives us another hilarious new adventure in her award-winning Meg Langslow series with Lark! The Herald Angels Sing.

It’s Christmastime in Caerphilly and Meg, full of holiday spirit, is helping out with the town's festivities. While directing a nativity pageant and herding the children participating in it, she finds a surprise in the manger: a live baby.

A note from the mother, attached to the baby girl’s clothes, says that it’s time for her father to take care of her―and implicates Meg’s brother, Rob, as the father. And while a DNA test can reveal whether there's any truth to the accusation, Rob's afraid the mere suspicion could derail his plan to propose to the woman he loves. Meg quickly realizes it's up to her to find the baby's real identity.

She soon discovers that the baby―named Lark according to the fateful note―may be connected to something much bigger. Something that eventually puts a growing number of Meg’s friends and family in danger. And before long, Meg realizes she can’t fix things single-handedly. Meanwhile, a war is brewing between Caerphilly and its arch-rival Clay County―and it's not a snowball fight. Can Meg bring everyone together in time for the holidays?

My Thoughts: 

In this book Meg is working with the kids in town on a Christmas pageant when they discover a baby girl left at the church with a note implying Meg's brother Rob is the father.  Did Rob really have a baby with someone other than his current girlfriend?  

Something fishy is going on in Clay County and the baby's family needs the help of all the residents in town to save one family so they get to have a Merry Christmas.  When the men in town get themselves in legal trouble it's up to the women to straighten things out but will it work in time?

I love this series and the things they go through some of it is just way lol moments.  They pull you in for a totally dysfunctional bumpy ride that won't let go until the story is told!  I will definitely be checking out other books in this series as they are a recipe for complete success!
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Thursday, August 29, 2019

Review: Relatively Dead by: Sheila Connolly

Title: Relatively Dead
Author: Sheila Connolly
Publisher: Beyond The Page
Series: Relatively Dead #1
Page: 211
Format: e-book
Source: Purchase

Description:

Abby Kimball has just moved to New England with her boyfriend and is trying to settle in, but the experience is proving to be quite unsettling, to say the least. While on a tour of local historic homes, Abby witnesses a family scene that leaves her gasping for breath—because the family has been dead for nearly a century. Another haunting episode follows, and another, until it seems to Abby that everything she touches is drawing her in, calling to her from the past.

Abby would doubt her sanity if it weren’t for Ned Newhall, the kind and knowledgeable guide on that disturbing house tour. Rather than telling her she’s hallucinating, Ned takes an interest in Abby’s strange encounters and encourages her to figure out what’s going on, starting with investigating the story of the family she saw . . . and exploring her own past. 

My Thoughts: 

Abby Kimball is new to New England moving with her boyfriend for his work and finds herself without something to do so she decides to investigate the area with different house tours.  When she feels connected to a house local resident Ned Newhall he believes in her and helps her learn about her family and past.

Abby finds herself questioning her relationship with her boyfriend and finally decides enough is enough and moves on from him.  She secures a job and town and spends more time with Ned and feels like she's learning more and more about her gift and her family history.

It was a great adventure and interesting to read how Abby deals with it.  Was definitely worth it and will be a great read for anyone who loves paranormal gifts or psychics.  I know I loved it!
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Wednesday, August 28, 2019

Review: Delivering The Truth by: Edith Maxwell

Title: Delivering The Truth
Author: Edith Maxwell
Publisher: Midnight Ink
Series: Quaker Midwife Mystery #1
Pages: 297
Format: e-book
Source: Personal Purchase

Description:

Quaker midwife Rose Carroll hears secrets and keeps confidences as she attends births of the rich and poor alike in an 1888 Massachusetts mill town. When the town’s world-famed carriage industry is threatened by the work of an arsonist, and a carriage factory owner’s adult son is stabbed to death with Rose's own knitting needle, she is drawn into solving the mystery. Things get dicey after the same owner’s mistress is also murdered, leaving her one-week-old baby without a mother. The Quaker poet and abolitionist John Greenleaf Whittier helps Rose by lending words of advice and support. While struggling with being less than the perfect Friend, Rose draws on her strengths as a counselor and problem solver to bring two murderers to justice before they destroy the town’s carriage industry and the people who run it. 

My Thoughts:

This book follows Rose Carroll whose a midwife in Massachusetts back in 1880 where you see all sorts of things with pregnant women.  When a fire burns down a local factory everyone is upset about it in their own way.  When a young mother winds up dead it's up to Rose to figure out what happened and why?

This book was a great introduction into Rose Carroll and her life in 1880's along with her beau meeting the residents and watching as Rose sniffs out the clues to figure out who had the most to gain in the death of the young mother!  Can't wait to see what is the next in this thrilling series!
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Tuesday, August 27, 2019

Review: Eagle & Crane by: Suzanne Rindell

Title: Eagle & Crane
Author: Suzanne Rindell
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons
Pages: 434
Format: Hardcover
Source: Library

Description:

Two young daredevil flyers confront ugly truths and family secrets during the U.S. internment of Japanese citizens during World War II, from the author of The Other Typist and Three-Martini Lunch.

Louis Thorn and Haruto "Harry" Yamada -- Eagle and Crane -- are the star attractions of Earl Shaw's Flying Circus, a daredevil (and not exactly legal) flying act that traverses Depression-era California. The young men have a complicated relationship, thanks to the Thorn family's belief that the Yamadas -- Japanese immigrants -- stole land that should have stayed in the Thorn family. 

When Louis and Harry become aerial stuntmen, performing death-defying tricks high above audiences, they're both drawn to Shaw's smart and appealing stepdaughter, Ava Brooks. When the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor and one of Shaw's planes mysteriously crashes and two charred bodies are discovered in it, authorities conclude that the victims were Harry and his father, Kenichi, who had escaped from a Japanese internment camp they had been sent to by the federal government. To the local sheriff, the situation is open and shut. But to the lone FBI agent assigned to the case, the details don't add up.

Thus begins an investigation into what really happened to cause the plane crash, who was in the plane when it fell from the sky, and why no one involved seems willing to tell the truth. By turns an absorbing mystery and a fascinating exploration of race, family and loyalty, Eagle and Crane is that rare novel that tells a gripping story as it explores a terrible era of American history.

My Thoughts: 

This book follows dare devils Louis and Harry who've decided to join a flying group going around to towns doing air shows.  While there the two fall in love with the same girl.  As the story progresses we also learn about the history between the two families who have been rivaling for years even though Harry's family isn't totally sure why.  When two burned bodies show up the assumption is that it was Harry and his father but the question is who helped them?

This book also spans during the Japanese camps in California during World War II.  Conditions weren't great by a long shot and it was a captivating story that span years.  It brought you right in with Harry and Louis and wondering how the story would end.  I thoroughly enjoyed it and would read it again!
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Monday, August 26, 2019

Review: Murder's No Votive Confidence by: Christin Brecher

Title: Murder's No Votive Confidence
Author: Christin Brecher
Publisher: Kensington
Series: Nantucket Candle Maker Mystery #1
Pages: 285
Format: e-book ARC
Source: NetGalley

Description:

Nantucket candle store owner Stella Wright specializes in creating unique candles for every occasion. But someone sets the stage for murder when a Memorial Day celebration becomes a wedding to die for . . . 

Jessica Sterling’s candlelight-themed nuptial promises to be the perfect kick-off to the summer’s first official holiday weekend. Stella’s thrilled to have been chosen to provide the decorative centerpiece for the wedding ceremony: a two-foot, tall scented unity candle—a symbol of the happy couple’s love. But it looks like the bride-to-be’s uncle won’t be walking his niece down the aisle after he’s found dead. The murder weapon is Stella’s seemingly indestructible candle, now split in two. 

When a beloved local bartender is arrested, Stella’s sure a visiting police Captain running the case made a rush to justice. With superstitious brides-to-be cancelling orders and sales waxing and waning at her store, the Wick & Flame owner decides to do some sleuthing of her own. Abetted by a charming reporter and challenged by the town’s sexiest cop, Stella’s determined to shine a light on the truth and uncover a killer who’s snuffing out her own flame.

My Thoughts: 

This book follows Stella Wright whose owning a candle store hoping to branch out into weddings and other decorations for her friend Jessica's wedding.  When Jessica's uncle winds up dead and the candle is in sight, Stella wonders if her business is ruined?  A local bartender is arrested and Stella finds out what his story is she is more determined to get to the bottom of the real story.  Everyone in Nantucket seems to be hiding something now it's up to Stella to figure who really killed Jessica Sterling's uncle and why!

This is a cute cozy mystery than centers around candles and the Sterling Wedding.  You find yourself meeting all sorts of people wondering which one of them was up to no good and why?  The author has you chasing along with Stella to find out what is going and who has the most to gain by the death!  

Definitely a great book that I couldn't put down until I was finished it pulled me along on a wonderfully bumpy ride that I'd love to go on again and again!
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Tuesday, June 25, 2019

Review: American Pop by: Snowden Wright

Title: American Pop
Author: Snowden Wright
Publisher: William Morrow
Pages: 400
Format: Hardcover
Source: Library

Description:

The story of a family. The story of an empire. The story of a nation.

Moving from Mississippi to Paris to New York and back again, a saga of family, ambition, passion, and tragedy that brings to life one unforgettable Southern dynasty—the Forsters, founders of the world’s first major soft-drink company—against the backdrop of more than a century of American cultural history.

The child of immigrants, Houghton Forster has always wanted more—from his time as a young boy in Mississippi, working twelve-hour days at his father’s drugstore; to the moment he first laid eyes on his future wife, Annabelle Teague, a true Southern belle of aristocratic lineage; to his invention of the delicious fizzy drink that would transform him from tiller boy into the founder of an empire, the Panola Cola Company, and entice a youthful, enterprising nation entering a hopeful new age.

Now the heads of a preeminent American family spoken about in the same breath as the Hearsts and the Rockefellers, Houghton and Annabelle raise their four children with the expectation they’ll one day become world leaders. The burden of greatness falls early on eldest son Montgomery, a handsome and successful politician who has never recovered from the horrors and heartbreak of the Great War. His younger siblings Ramsey and Lance, known as the “infernal twins,” are rivals not only in wit and beauty, but in their utter carelessness with the lives and hearts of others. Their brother Harold, as gentle and caring as the twins can be cruel, is slowed by a mental disability—and later generations seem equally plagued by misfortune, forcing Houghton to seriously consider who should control the company after he’s gone.

An irresistible tour de force of original storytelling, American Pop blends fact and fiction, the mundane and the mythical, and utilizes techniques of historical reportage to capture how, in Nathaniel Hawthorne’s words, “families are always rising and falling in America,” and to explore the many ways in which nostalgia can manipulate cultural memory—and the stories we choose to tell about ourselves.

My Thoughts: 

This book follows the Panola Cola Company Forster family.  They have developed a soda pop that sells and goes worldwide.  What goes on within the family is all sorts of drama.  Will the Forster's reign for years or will they fail?

This book was great and read like Dallas or Dynasty.  There are secrets and big ones at that.  The siblings all have their own issues.  They want to succeed but success isn't always easy.  Their father has his hands full trying to figure out who will run the company when he no longer can.  Each child of his thinks it will be them but in the end it's someone else entirely.  

I loved the writing of historical events mixed in with fiction and reminds me of books like Gone with the Wind, or Saving CeeCee Honeycutt.  It's definitely worth checking out and can't wait to see what Mr. Wright pens next!
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Thursday, June 20, 2019

Book Tour: Jackson by: Emily March


Title: Jackson
Author: Emily March
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperback
Series: Eternity Springs: The McBrides of Texas Trilogy #1, Eternity Springs #16
Pages: 320
Format: e-book
Source: NetGalley

Description:

From New York Times bestselling author Emily March comes Jackson, the newest novel in the critically acclaimed Eternity Springs series. 

Sometimes it takes a new beginning 
Caroline Carruthers thinks she buried her dreams along with the love of her life…until a stranger named Celeste dares her to chase a dream all on her own. Moving to Redemption, Texas, is chapter one in Caroline’s new life story. Opening a bookstore is the next. Finding love is the last thing on her mind as she settles into this new place called home. But when she meets a handsome, soulful man who’s also starting over, all bets are off. 

to reach a happily-ever-after 

Jackson McBride came to Redemption looking only to find himself, not someone to love. Ever since his marriage ended, he’s been bitter. Sure, he used to believe in love—he even has the old song lyrics to prove it—but the Jackson of today is all business. That is, until a beautiful young widow who’s moved to town inspires a change of heart. Could it be that the myth of Redemption’s healing magic is true…and Jackson and Caroline can find a second chance at a happy ending after all?

“A brilliant writer you’ll love creates a world you’ll never want to leave.”—Susan Mallery, New York Times bestselling author 

My Thoughts:

This book follows Jackson and Caroline who seem to be at a crossroads in life.  Jackson helping rebuild a family property after a messy divorce and custody situation.  The last thing he's looking for is love.  Caroline is dealing with her husband whose got severe medical issues and is dying.  When he dies it's up to Caroline to figure out what she wants in life which seems to lead her to Redemption, Texas. 

When these two meet the sparks are there if the two can get past their issues.  What starts out as harmless flirting soon really heats up.  It seems Redemption is good for the soul.  Even when emergencies lead Jackson to Las Vegas and he has to decide when he gets back what he really wants and how to achieve it!

I really enjoy this series watching as Caroline and Jackson go around each other as they decide where their life will lead.  It was totally worth reading this series.  The author really knows how to spin a tale on second choices and moving on.  Can't wait to see what is next in the series!

GIVEAWAY:

I have one copy to giveaway to lucky USA resident I just need you to comment below what your favorite chic lit authors are?  Also be sure to include your email address.  You don't need to put dot and at just put jsmith@email.com.  Good luck to everyone who enters!

1.  You wrote a book! That’s pretty awesome. Why don’t you tell us a bit about what inspired Jackson and the rest of the books in the Eternity Springs world? 

The saying “Write what you know” says it all in my case. I’m a small-town girl and my family and friendships are center to my world. I write about love and family and friendships. I have roots in both the Colorado Rockies and the Texas Hill Country, so it was natural for me to set Eternity Springs and Redemption there. The idea for JACKSON grew out of my interest in the music currently being written and performed in Texas. I’ve always thought singer/songwriters are romantic figures so I was excited to create a hero with this background. Unfortunately, I’m not a musician and I’m definitely not a singer, but I am creative so it was fun for me to explore that aspect of a character. 

2.  Introduce us to your main character! 

Okay. Well, Americana singer/songwriter Jackson McBride is a bit damaged when the book begins. His famous, talented and wealthy ex has won a custody battle that severely limits his access to his six-year-old daughter, so Jackson goes home to the Texas Hill Country to nurse his broken heart. He finds solace in Enchanted Canyon hiking the trails with the dog he rescues and working to bring a historic dance hall back to life. The last thing he expects is to find love again with a woman whose heart is as battered as his own.

3.  Walk us through a day in the life of Emily March.

Ready to be bored? Now that my daughter’s and niece’s weddings are behind me—they consumed me for months—I’m boring and happy about it. I split my time between Fort Worth where we have a condo downtown in a 1930’s passenger train station and our lake house in the Texas Hill Country. I recently gave up my office in town because I’m spending more and more time at the lake. My husband also offices out of our condo, so on days when we are both working in town, I’ve started riding the new TexRail train that runs from our building to DFW airport. It’s quiet and comfortable and I don’t have Internet to distract me. And at $5 a day, it’s much cheaper than office rent. :) When I’m at the lake I’m either working or doing yard work. My new favorite toy is my power washer. 

4. Lots of aspiring authors out there. Any advice for them?

I’ve always thought that one of the most important things you can do for your writing is to read. And read. And read some more. Read across genres. You absorb so much about pacing and plotting and character development when you read. Plus, you get to READ! :)

5. How is the Jackson trilogy different than your other series? 

I don’t think it’s necessarily different from the rest of the Eternity Springs series. I write about love and family and friendship—that doesn’t change. Readers will still see old friends from Eternity Springs and a few scenes in JACKSON are set in Colorado. What’s new is we get to spend some time in the Texas Hill Country and meet a few new characters—Celeste’s cousin, Angelica, for example. 

6.  I know asking someone’s all-time favorite book is a loaded question so what’s your current favorite read?

I’m a big fan of Patricia Brigg’s Mercy Thompson series and I’m reading her latest right now, STORM CURSED.

7. Alright, the ultimate question: why should we read your book? 

My goals as a writer are to touch a reader’s heart, to entertain her and make her laugh, to maybe cry a little and sigh with satisfaction upon reaching the end. With JACKSON, I believe I’ve achieved those goals.

8. Describe yourself in 3 words. 

Family. Family. Family. :)

9. What is your most embarrassing memory? 

Walking out of the junior high school cafeteria in seventh grade, not realizing that my very short dress—it was the 70’s—had gotten hung up in my underwear and I inadvertently flashed my rear end to the entire cafeteria—including the tables where the football players sat. Thinking about it even today gives me the hives.

10. Favorite quote or scene you wrote in JACKSON? 

I love the ending.  Jackson is a songwriter who has lost his music and when he finds it again…the song he sings to Caroline…just makes me melt.

11. What is one piece of advice you would tell everyone?

Call your mother.

12.  What inspired you to become a writer? 

I’ve always loved to read, so that is part of it, but my father was my primary inspiration. He was a fabulous storyteller. I grew up sitting at his feet and listening to him tell stories about his youth and his experiences in Europe during World War II. Listening to him tell his stories was my favorite thing to do. I didn’t inherit his talent for verbal storytelling, but I think I learned from him how to tell a good story on the page.

13. Do you have any interesting writing quirks or habits?

Like I mentioned before, I’m pretty boring. My perks and habits are always evolving. The train writing thing is new for me. I usually write on a laptop and edit on a desktop. I listen to movie soundtracks when I write and always finish a book with The Last of the Mohicans.

14. What has been one of the most surprising things you’ve learned as a published author?

I’m always a little surprised and honored that readers are excited to meet me. Like I said…I’m a boring person.

15. What is your favorite state to visit? 

Colorado, of course, because I must keep returning to Eternity Springs. :)

16. What are hobbies or interests do you have? 

We are lake people, so I love waterskiing and boating and fishing. As I write this we’ve just finished Memorial Day weekend at the lake, so I sort of feel like chief cook and sheet-and-towel washer, too. I love, love, love hosting big holiday gatherings of family and friends at the lake house, but I will admit I do tire of the mountain of laundry in the aftermath. 

17. Can you tell us about what’s coming up next after this for you writing wise? 

I’m writing Tucker’s story. Fun fact for this—as part of my research I attended a survivalist training school for a weekend. I searched long and hard to find one where I could return to town to spend the night in a comfy hotel rather than sleep on the ground—I’m only willing to go so far for my art. I did learn to start a friction fire, though, something I’me VERY proud of. :)

18. How can readers connect with you online?

My website is www.emilymarch.com. I’m active on Facebook. My Facebook page is www.facebook.com/emilymarchbooks. You can also reach me by email at emily@emilymarch.com.

Sunday, June 16, 2019

Review: The Diva Sweetens The Pie by: Krista Davis

Title: The Diva Sweetens The Pie
Author: Krista Davis
Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime
Series: Domestic Diva #12
Format: Audiobook
Length: 8 hours 51 minutes
Source: Library

Description:

In New York Times bestselling author Krista Davis’s new Domestic Diva mystery, Old Town’s annual Pie Festival crumbles into chaos after a celebrity judge is murdered, leaving it up to entertaining maven and sometime-sleuth Sophie Winston to dole out justice . . .

Nothing heats up Old Town quite like the annual Pie Festival, and this year is no exception, especially since Sophie’s professional rival, Natasha Smith, is barred from participating. Sophie, meanwhile, has been asked to oversee the pie eating contest. But the drama really rolls out when celebrity judge, Patsy Lee Presley, host of television’s most popular cooking show, bites the crust during the competition, and Sophie’s friends are suspected of the crime. 

As the folks of Old Town dish, the tough truth about Patsy’s meteoric rise to domestic stardom begins to leak. It turns out that Patsy’s sweet exterior hid a secret sour side, which alienated many of her closest allies, including a jilted ex-husband, a bitter ex-mentor, and a jaded ex-best friend. With the festival falling apart, and her friends in danger of being boxed up for murder, Sophie must cobble together the clues and stop a flakey fiend from serving up any more deadly desserts.

Includes delicious recipes and entertaining tips!

My Thoughts: 

This book follows Sophie Winston and her friends as the get ready for a pie contest.  During the competition a famous cooking show star Patsy Lee Presley winds up falling into a table holding pie's for a competition.  Who killed Patsy Lee and why?  Was it an ex-mentor or ex-husband or an angry friend?  Or someone else entirely?

When a young, child Aly Stokes contacts Sophie and Nina asking for help for her mom whose sitting in jail convicted of a murder.  Did she kill her boss or was it someone else and why?   Will Sophie and Nina be able to save the young girl's mother or is it too late?

When all attention gets brought to Sophie her firends circle her trying to help figure out who killed Patsy Lee and when Alex gets beaten up badly the pressure is on them to prove that Sophie didn't commit any crime.  Will they unflake the murderer or will Sophie wind up in the slammer?

I love the Domestic Diva series.  Ms. Davis really hits on something with her Old Town.  You feel like your with everyone.  The book captures your attention and won't let go until the story is solved!
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Friday, June 14, 2019

Review: Deco Dames, Demon Rum and Death by: Ellen Mansoor Collier

Title: Deco Dames, Demon Run and Death
Author: Ellen Mansoor Collier
Publisher: Decodame Press
Series: A Jazz Age Mystery #5
Pages: 251
Format: e-book

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble 





 Description:

When Galveston Gazette society reporter Jazz Cross hears rumors of grave robbers at the Broadway Cemetery, she and photographer Nathan Blaine investigate, hoping to land a scoop. The ambitious young newshawks witness meetings held by clandestine gangs and enlist her beau, Prohibition Agent James Burton, to help capture the hoods red-handed.

Meanwhile, the supernatural craze takes Galveston by storm, and Jazz is assigned to profile the society set’s favorite fortune teller, Madame Farushka. Sightings of a ghost bride haunting the Hotel Galvez intrigue Jazz, who sets up a Ouija board reading and sĂ©ance with the spiritualist. Did the bride-to-be drown herself—or was she murdered?

Luckily, Sammy Cook, her black-sheep half-brother, has escaped the Downtown Gang and works at the Hollywood Dinner Club, owned by rival Beach Gang leaders. During a booze bust, the Downtown Gang's mob boss, Johnny Jack Nounes, is caught and Jazz worries: will Sammy be forced to testify? 

Worse, when a trial witness is killed, Sammy is framed and Jazz must solve the murder to help clear his name. As the turf war between rival gangs rages on, Jazz relies on her wits and moxie to rescue her brother and pals before the Downtown Gang exacts its revenge.

My Thoughts: 

I love this series it offers so much a look at Galveston's history and how dangerous it was back then.  In this book Jazz and her photographer friend Nathan are found investigating cemetery's trying to find out whose grave robbing.  Which leads to more questions than actual answers.

Also she is looking into a ghost bride haunting the Hotel Galvez.  Lily a guest at the hotel has called on Jazz to investigate the ghost bride and find out what she wants.  Which leads Jazz to a fortune teller.  After seeing her once Jazz is far from sold on the whole fortune telling.  

When a witness is murdered Jazz tries to tell her beau Agent Burton about what is going on but with no corpse it's hard to investigate.  Who killed the witness and why?  Was it a gang over something he might spill or was it a cop whoever it was definitely was hiding something.The big question being what?

This series is great but I think to truly enjoy it you have to back to the first book in the series.  Jazz and Sammie and even Agent Burton have come a long way.  These books bring you back to an era where things were totally different then they are today! 

We also get to see some relationships grow and mature.  Which was nice to see the various couples and what they are up to.  I know if I ever need to go back to Galveston this series will be waiting for me!  Ms. Collier has really hit on something great and is definitely the bees knees for all those who love the 1920's and great mysteries!

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Tuesday, June 11, 2019

Book Spotlight: The Summer of Sunshine and Margot by: Susan Mallery

Title: The Summer of Sunshine and Margot
Author: Susan Mallery
Publisher: HQN
Pages: 368

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | GooglePlay

Description:

The Baxter sisters come from a long line of women with disastrous luck in love. But this summer, Sunshine and Margot will turn disasters into destiny…

As an etiquette coach, Margot teaches her clients to fit in. But she’s never faced a client like Bianca, an aging movie star who gained fame—and notoriety—through a campaign of shock and awe. Schooling Bianca on the fine art of behaving like a proper diplomat’s wife requires intensive lessons, forcing Margot to move into the monastery turned mansion owned by the actress’s intensely private son. Like his incredible home, Alec’s stony exterior hides secret depths Margot would love to explore. But will he trust her enough to let her in?

Sunshine has always been the good-time sister, abandoning jobs to chase after guys who used her, then threw her away. No more. She refuses to be “that girl” again. This time, she’ll finish college, dedicate herself to her job as a nanny, and she 100 percent will not screw up her life again by falling for the wrong guy. Especially not the tempting single dad who also happens to be her boss.

Master storyteller Susan Mallery weaves threads of family drama, humor, romance and a wish-you-were-there setting into one of the most satisfying books of the year!

Book Spotlight: The Summer on Mirror Lake by: JoAnn Ross

Title The Summer on Mirror Lake
Author: JoAnn Ross
Publisher: HQN Books
Series: Honeymoon Harbor #3
Pages: 384

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | GooglePlay

Description:

Summertime is the best time to lose yourself in the romance of Honeymoon Harbor…

When he lands in the emergency room after collapsing at the funeral of a colleague and friend, Wall Street hotshot Gabriel Mannion initially rejects the diagnosis of an anxiety attack. But when warned that if he doesn’t change his adrenaline-fueled, workaholic lifestyle he could end up like his friend, Gabe reluctantly returns to his hometown of Honeymoon Harbor to regroup.

As he adjusts to the sight of mountains instead of skyscrapers, Gabe discovers advantages to this small Pacific Northwest town he once couldn’t wait to escape. But it’s irresistible librarian Chelsea Prescott who, along with the two foster children she’s taken under her wing, makes slowing down seem like the best prescription ever.

Over the course of their summer romance, Gabe gets a taste of the life he might have had if he’d taken a different path. But with his return to New York City looming on the horizon, he’ll have to choose between the success he’s worked tirelessly for and a ready-made family who offers a very different, richly rewarding future…if he’ll only take the risk.

Friday, June 7, 2019

Book Spotlight: Killer Focus by: Victoria L.K. Williams

Title: Killer Focus
Author: Victoria L.K. Williams
Publisher: Sun, Sand & Stories Publishing LLC
Series: Mrs. Avery's Adventures, #1
Pages: 122

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Google Play

Description:

When Piper was taking photos in town and noticed a small argument occurring she decided to take a picture of it just in case. Little did she know this decision would be what sets her on the path to try and find this man's murderer.

Author Bio:
Cozy Mysteries with a Tropical Twist

Victoria writes what she likes to call Cozy Mysteries with a Tropical Twist. Her series are set in small south Florida towns, with fun characters and a dog/cat or two. She also has one series that is paranormal cozy and the plans for a second. 

Victoria can often be found writing from her south Florida home, looking into her garden, watching the birds and squirrels fight over their next meal, while she writes. Her two cats, Miss Marple, and Fletch, often join her at the desk and each has their assigned spot. Victoria's not sure they are there to supervise her writing or watch the birds.

Victoria and her husband of 35 years share a love of gardening, and together they have written a gardening handbook for Florida gardeners.

The Williams are now empty-nesters, giving  Victoria plenty of time to dream up the next story.
Until then, you can read any of her current titles in the Citrus Beach Mystery series, Sister Station series and Storm Voices series. And Mrs. Avery's Adventures series.

Wednesday, June 5, 2019

Review: Murder She Wrote: Murder in Red by: Jessica Fletcher & Jon Land

Title: Murder She Wrote: Murder in Red
Author: Jessica Fletcher & Jon Land
Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime
Series: Murder She Wrote #49
Pages: 320
Format: ARC
Source: NetGalley

Description:

In the latest entry in this USA Today bestselling series, Jessica loses a loved one to unnatural causes and sets her sights on the mysterious local hospital before more people wind up dead on arrival...

Jessica Fletcher's favorite gin rummy partner, Mimi Van Dorn, checks into the brand-new Clifton Care Partners, a private hospital that's just opened up shop in town, for a simple procedure--one that leads tragically, and inexplicably, to her death. Seeking justice in her inimitable fashion, Jessica decides to pursue her own investigation on the hospital and its shadowy business dealings.

On the trail of what initially appears to be medical malpractice, Jessica digs deeper and learns her friend was actually a victim of something far more sinister. Death is bad for business, but murder is even worse, and Jessica will find plenty of both as she races to bring down Clifton Care Partners before someone else flatlines...

My Thoughts: 

Jessica is back in Cabot Cove attending a funeral of the librarian who died.  When her friend Mimi is almost run over Jessica rushes to save her only to have her friend fall into a coma.  While at the funeral it is revealed that many of Seth's patients have been using a new company called Clifton Care Partners.  Which has Seth despondent and contemplating retiring.  When Mimi winds up dead the next day, Jessica has trouble buying what happened!

It isn't long before Jessica learns that George is in town seeking medical treatment from the same clinic.  Last time we saw George it was a Thanksgiving at Jessica's.  Jessica is still back to her tricks of sneaking around trying to find out who killed Mimi and why?  Could it have been an ex-husband or someone out to silence her for another reason?  

As Jessica digs in she finds she knows little about her friend.  She wonders if she ever knew Mimi.  The secrets Mimi holds are deep and shock Jessica and take her from Cabot Cove to Washington D.C. to Rhode Island.  What I love about this series is the various people we see.  Anyone from George to Seth to Harry McGraw it was such fun to go on a ride with Jessica and see where it ends up and we get to learn more about Frank and how he died.  Can't wait to see what the future holds for Jessica!
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Tuesday, June 4, 2019

Book Spotlight: The Book Supremacy by: Kate Carlisle

Title: The Book Supremacy
Author: Kate Carlisle
Publisher: Berkley Prime Crime
Series: Bibliophile Mystery #13
Pages: 288

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Google Play

Description:

 In the latest in this New York Times bestselling series, San Francisco book-restoration expert Brooklyn Wainwright investigates a mysterious spy novel linked to a string of murders...

Newlyweds Brooklyn and Derek are enjoying the final days of their honeymoon in Paris. As they're browsing the book stalls along the Seine, Brooklyn finds the perfect gift for Derek, a first edition James Bond novel, The Spy Who Loved Me. When they bump into Ned, an old friend from Derek’s spy days, Brooklyn shows him her latest treasure.

Once they're back home in San Francisco, they visit a spy shop Ned mentioned. The owner begs them to let him display the book Brooklyn found in Paris as part of the shop's first anniversary celebration. Before they agree, Derek makes sure the security is up to snuff—turns out, the unassuming book is worth a great deal more than sentimental value.

Soon after, Derek is dismayed when he receives a mysterious letter from Paris announcing Ned’s death. Then late one night, someone is killed inside the spy shop. Are the murders connected to Brooklyn's rare, pricey book? Is there something even more sinister afoot? Brooklyn and the spy who loves her will have to delve into the darkest parts of Derek's past to unmask an enemy who's been waiting for the chance to destroy everything they hold dear. 

Book Spotlight: Whiskers in the Dark by: Rita Mae Brown

Title: Whiskers in the Dark
Author: Rita Mae Brown
Publisher: Bantam Books
Series: Mrs. Murphy #28
Pages: 288

Purchase Links:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Google Play

Description:

Death stalks the Blue Ridge Mountains as a centuries-old mystery resurfaces and murder mars the lead-up to an annual beagle competition, in a thrilling new tale from Rita Mae Brown and her feline co-author Sneaky Pie Brown. 

"As feline collaborators go, you couldn't ask for better than Sneaky Pie Brown."--The New York Times Book Review

A massive nor'easter has hit northern Virginia, where Mary Minor "Harry" Harristeen joins groundskeeping efforts at the National Beagle Club at Aldie as the date for its springtime Hounds for Heroes veterans' benefit approaches. Harry's fellow volunteers, including her oldest friend, Susan Tucker, comprise a spirited group of hunting enthusiasts, some former service members themselves. But things take a sinister turn when, after a routine tree cleanup along the Club's hunting trails, retired foreign services officer Jason Holzknect is found dead, throat slit from ear to ear. Soon enough, another murder in their midst jolts the preparations, convincing Harry that the killer is familiar with the Club--and must be close by, masked in plain sight.

The intrigue extends to the grounds of Harry's beloved local church, where the identity of an eighteenth-century skeleton wearing precious pearls remains a mystery. The anonymous woman's neck had been snapped, and marks on the grave where her body was secreted indicate that someone recently tried to remove it, leading Harry to question how well she really knows those around her.

As always, Harry's crime-solving cats Mrs. Murphy and Pewter, and Tee Tucker the Corgi share her determination to sniff out the foes among friends, even those long buried. Harry will need her four-legged companions' help more than ever: a ghostly beagle only they can see may hold the key to the culprit. 

Book Spotlight: Murder at Royale Court by: G.P. Gardner

Title: Murder at Royale Court
Author: G.P. Gardner
Publisher: Lyrical Underground
Series: Cleo Mack #2
Pages: 278

Purchase Link:

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Google Play

Description:

Harbor Village is a vivacious retirement paradise known for its beachy locale and active senior scene. But ever since murder moved in, the idyllic coastal community is becoming a little less lively . . .

With the first annual antique car show cruising into the tranquil bayside oasis of Fairhope, Alabama, there are bumpy roads ahead for Harbor Village director Cleo Mack. As an automobile-themed lecture series gets off to a rough start, she finds herself balancing one too many responsibilities—and dodging advances from a shady event sponsor. It’s enough to make Cleo feel twice her age. But the festivities reach a real dead end when she discovers a body at the Royale Court shopping center . . .

When an innocent man lands in the hot seat for murder, Harbor Village residents look to Cleo to crack the case. Aided by an eclectic group of energetic seniors, Cleo races to identify the true culprit from a growing list of harmless Sunday drivers—before a killer revs up for another hit and run!