A Tasty Slice of Mystery and Quirkiness: Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust

Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust by Mindy Quigley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

I recently delved into the world of Mindy Quigley's "Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust," the second installment in the Deep Dish Mysteries series, and I must say, it was a delightful journey through the picturesque town of Geneva Bay, Wisconsin. While I can't quite give it a full five stars, several aspects of this book kept me eagerly turning the pages.

First and foremost, Delilah's character development is a notable highlight. In the first book of the series, she was a bit hard to warm up to, but in this installment, her independence and hard-headedness began to take on a more endearing quality. She's far from your typical sugar-coated heroine, which is a refreshing change. You might still want to smack some sense into her at times, but that's what makes her a compelling protagonist.

The supporting characters also shine in this story. We learn more about Auntie Biz and Sonya, adding depth to the ensemble cast. These characters bring their unique quirks and charm to the narrative, making the book richer and more engaging.

The central mystery, involving poison and a culinary contest rivalry, is intriguing and keeps you guessing throughout. However, the poison's portrayal might require some suspension of disbelief, as it doesn't entirely match reality. Nonetheless, it's a minor issue that doesn't significantly detract from the overall enjoyment of the story.

The way Mindy Quigley weaves the town's gangster history into the narrative is a fun and unique touch. It adds depth and flavor to the setting, making Geneva Bay feel more alive.

One minor complaint is that I wished for more appearances from Butterball the Cat, who has quickly become a beloved character in this series. Butterball's antics add humor and heart to the story, and I hope to see even more of this furry sidekick in future installments.

In conclusion, "Ashes to Ashes, Crust to Crust" is a worthy addition to the Deep Dish Mysteries series. While it may not be a perfect five stars due to minor quibbles, it offers an engaging mystery, well-developed characters, and a unique setting. If you're a fan of cozy mysteries with a dash of humor and a slice of quirky characters, this series is worth sinking your teeth into. I'm looking forward to what Mindy Quigley serves up next!




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Charming Spellford Cove: Double, Double, Tart and Trouble Delights

Double, Double, Tart and Trouble by Samantha Silver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

Double, Double, Tart and Trouble by Samantha Silver is a delightful addition to the Spellford Cove series and a quick read. I have thus far enjoyed this series, and while it may not break new ground in its subgenre, it's undeniably pleasant and full of characters that you can't help but fall in love with. You know, the ones you just can't help but get attached to.

In this installment, we find ourselves knee-deep in yet another murder investigation in Spellford Cove, and it's clear that the little town has more than its fair share of poisonings.

The only downside of this book is its brevity. The story unfolds quite rapidly, and, much like the protagonist, Robin, we're quickly led to the conclusion about the identity of the murderer and their motivations. The murder plot seems to take a back seat to the relationships between the core characters, which are much more enjoyable to explore.

Ultimately, Double, Double, Tart, and Trouble is a delightful and enjoyable addition to the Spellford Cove series. It may follow some familiar tropes, but the camaraderie and charm of the characters keep us coming back for more.



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Baseball, Cotton Fields, and Childhood Innocence: A Review of 'A Painted House' by John Grisham

A Painted House by John Grisham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

"A Painted House" by John Grisham is a four-star novel that masterfully immerses readers in the authentic, day-to-day lives of people in early 1950s America, making it a must-read for historical fiction enthusiasts. This book was a revelation for me, someone whose perception of the early 1950s in America is primarily shaped by television and family stories of well-off urban living.

Grisham's narrative takes us on a captivating journey through the hardships faced by an early 1950s cotton farmer and the even harsher realities endured by sharecroppers, hill people, and Mexican laborers. The stark contrast between these lives is vividly portrayed. It leaves a lasting impact, offering a deep and authentic glimpse into history.

One of the most charming aspects of this book is the choice of a child narrator, Luke Chandler. His perspective adds a fresh and almost innocent lens through which we view the era. Through Luke's eyes, we witness the unfolding events and secrets that shape the lives of the Chandlers. Although, on occasion, I felt that Luke's character came across as older and more mature than his tender age of seven, this might be attributed to my modern understanding of childhood maturity.

As a bonus for baseball enthusiasts, the thread of St. Louis Cardinals and the discussions of baseball woven throughout the story add an extra layer of charm. This aspect of the novel will undoubtedly appeal to fans of the sport, as it provides a nostalgic connection to the era.

In summary, "A Painted House" is a well-crafted piece of historical fiction that offers a moving journey through a challenging period in American history. With its authentic portrayal of everyday life in the 1950s, combined with the innocence of its child narrator, this book is compelling. Its minor flaws aside, it is a book that entertains and profoundly appreciates past struggles.


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Charming Christmas Connections in 'Love in Winter Wonderland'

Love in Winter Wonderland by Abiola Bello
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

"Love in Winter Wonderland" by Abiola Bello is a heartwarming YA Christmas romance that I'd rate at four stars. The narrative revolves around two teenagers who join forces through social media to rescue a struggling Black-owned indie bookshop, delivering a heartwarming message of friendship, teamwork, and determination.

Ariel and Trey's chemistry was beautifully authentic, evolving from strangers to friends to a deeper, more romantic connection without any forced moments. Ariel, in particular, was a standout character with her multifaceted personality, dealing with weight issues, grief over her father's loss, scholarship applications to art school, and bullies, all while being a vital friend to Trey and helping save the bookshop.

However, while Ariel shone brightly, Trey's character was less likable. His actions in his relationship with Blair, like forgetting her birthday and dancing with another girl in front of her, made it hard to connect with him. Overall, "Love in Winter Wonderland" is a heartwarming read offering an enjoyable holiday-themed journey filled with friendship, love, and support for independent businesses.




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Heartfelt and Authentic: A Review of 'Girls Like Girls' by Hayley Kiyoko

Girls Like Girls by Hayley Kiyoko
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2023

"Girls Like Girls" by Hayley Kiyoko takes readers on a heartwarming journey of self-discovery and love. At the heart of the story is Coley, a 17-year-old who finds herself grappling with the recent loss of her mother, thrusting her into a new environment and leaving her vulnerable and uncertain. Kiyoko's portrayal of Coley's emotional journey is incredibly poignant, allowing readers to connect deeply with her vulnerability and doubts.

When Coley crosses paths with Sonya, an immediate connection ignites. Kiyoko masterfully weaves their relationship, capturing the exhilaration, tenderness, and uncertainty of first love. Coley's doubts about her own worthiness of love and Sonya's journey as someone who has never been with a girl before adding layers of depth and authenticity to their evolving connection.

Set in a small town in Oregon, this book beautifully explores the challenges of teenage life and the courage it takes to embrace one's true self. With relatable characters and a celebration of LGBTQ+ experiences, Kiyoko's storytelling captures the essence of love and acceptance. "Girls Like Girls" was a captivating read.

Disclosure Statement:

I received a free Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my opinions or the content of my review. My feedback is voluntary and unbiased. My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an opportunity to read and review this book.

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Blooming Intrigue: A Review of 'The Chamomile Conspiracy' – A Cozy Mystery with a Botanical Twist

The Chamomile Conspiracy : A Garden Lover Cozy Mystery by Louise Marvin
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I am a sucker for cat mysteries - and this one has some pretty adorable cats. I can't wait to learn more about them and follow along on their continued adventures. The real "sidekick" star of this show is the PLANTS, though. Our heroine, Pax, can communicate with plants. The plant facts and the personalities of each plant that help her along the way really add a new and fun angle to the cozy mystery genre.

Pax's world is upturned when she goes to visit her friend, Miss Millie, for the weekend and finds Miss Millie dying - her final words are accusations of murder and poison! Pax has only known Miss Millie for a couple of years but felt a strong bond and kinship with the sweet nonagenarian instantly. Pax is from the Harbor area but left when she was only 6 years old. Her parents passed away, and her hyper-controlling, emotionally distant grandparents took her to Boston. Pax has always longed for family and to know her history - especially her mother's family, whom her grandparents have denied her learning about. Revelations abound throughout the story as Pax finds herself, her people, and her family.

A fun start to a cozy mystery series. A lot smoother than many firsts! The world-building is already very engaging. I look forward to following along for more adventures with Pax, Sam, Angie, the plants, the cats, and the whole Harbor community.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

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Dogged by Death (A Furry Friends Mystery #1) by Laura Scott

 

Dogged by Death (A Furry Friends Mystery #1) by Laura Scott

Publisher: Crooked Lane Books

Publication date: July 13th, 2021

My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

In Laura Scott's Furry Friends series debut, veterinarian Ally Winter must collar the killer of a shifty lawyer. Does the dead man's dog know who committed the arf-ul crime?

Ally Winter is going through a ruff patch. The thirty-something veterinarian lost her fiance, her clinic, and her savings in rapid succession. So when Ally's grandfather undergoes hip replacement surgery, she moves back to Willow Bluff, Wisconsin, to care for him. She arrives home, tail between her legs, only to find sleazy lawyer Marty Shawlin murdered in his home office. And the only witness was Marty's faithful boxer, Roxy.

Quick as a greyhound, Noah Jorgensen is on the case. The good news is, he's the best detective around. The bad news, at least the way Ally sees it, is that Noah is still just as fetching as he was back in high school. He also just happens to have witnessed every embarrassing incident that befell accident-prone Ally--including the fire-ant attack that set tongues wagging and won her the unshakable nickname Hot Pants.

Meanwhile, true-crime aficionado Gramps fancies himself a sleuth, and he is doggedly determined to sniff out the culprit himself...with Ally's reluctant help, of course. Ally has no choice but to team up with Noah--and the irrepressible Roxy--to solve the case while keeping Gramps on a short leash.

Ally had better learn some new tricks, lickety-split. Because if she can't bring the killer to heel, she won't just be playing dead.

My review:

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

I really loved the characters. Gramps (Oscar) is, well, a real character  -- a Vietnam veteran who watches too much Dateline and reads too many true crime books and fancies himself an amateur detective. His granddaughter, Dr. Ally Winter, is a veterinarian (yes, a vet & a vet) who returned to her small hometown after her ex-husband steals their money and runs off with the vet tech from their joint veterinary practice in the big city. She winds up getting dragged into a murder investigation in an attempt to keep her meddlesome grandfather safe. Ally, Gramps, and Noah, the ACTUAL detective in charge of the case, are all likable characters. Of course, Roxy the boxer is the best character and she ultimately helps solve the case. 

This definitely smacks of “first in a series”. I find that a lot of cozies (and probably other series but I don’t read many other serial works in other genres) suffer from the same first in the series tropes. It always seems like the characters make some of the most outlandish of choices in these first forays. Ally and her grandfather both keep digging and digging and poking their noses in places even after some pretty dangerous and threatening things have happened. The motive for murder also seemed weak to me. While the world-building and character development were good, I think the basic murder mystery plot left a bit to be desired. However, I liked the characters enough to read more when the next book is released. I am quite certain that the balancing necessary for the first book in a series is a tough one so I try not to judge too harshly on the first books. 

All in all, it has the potential to be a fun cozy mystery with a lot of animals involved since the main character is a veterinarian. There was a definite hint to some romance with the detective. I really hope the teensy tiny hint to another possible love interest doesn’t go anywhere since I am definitely not a fan of love triangles. Time will tell on that front. I didn’t realize until I read the author’s bio that she is considered a Christian fiction author. Nothing in the book seemed overtly Christian to me. It was a pleasant, clean cozy mystery with the potential for a lot of intriguing adventures in the future. 

About the author:

From the bio page on her website: I'm often asked when I started writing and I have to be honest, I can't remember when I wasn't writing. I loved books as a kid and like many authors, I ran out of stories that I liked to read so I began to make up my own. I wrote my first teen novel when I was thirteen and my first romance when I was seventeen. Of course, neither manuscript was very good, but I never gave up and after I finished Graduate school I decided to take some time for myself and get back to my writing. I'm so glad I did!

I grew up reading faith-based books by Grace Livingston Hill so writing for Love Inspired Suspense is a dream come true. I hope you enjoy reading them as much as I enjoy writing them.

I currently live in Milwaukee, Wisconsin with my husband of thirty-three years. My daughter Nicole is married to a wonderful man named Mike and my son Jonathan is a Registered Nurse at the same hospital where I work. I'm so blessed to have such a wonderful family. 

I'm a dog lover and had to put my Westie named Mac down a year or so ago. I still miss him but now have a chance to dog sit for my sisters and brother. I try to incorporate pets in my stories as much as possible

In May of 2017, I was the humble recipient of the Wisconsin Romance Writers Lifetime Achievement Award. I'm blessed to be a member of such an amazing group!

Never Say Never by Justine Manzano

 

Never Say Never by Justine Manzano

Publisher: Sword and Silk Books

Publication date: 15 Jun 2021 

My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

Brynn Stark is NEVER going to fall in love.

After she walks in on her mom doing the horizontal mambo with a man that's decidedly not her dad, Brynn Stark swears to never fall in love. One of her friends—Val— reveals her true identity—Aphrodite, goddess of love, and promises to show Brynn why she shouldn't lose faith.

But when Brynn realizes she's beginning to fall for Adam, Aphrodite's boyfriend, Brynn's forced to decide if she'll choose her goddess-given fate, or risk it all for the wrong-but-right guy.

One thing's for sure. Love sucks. And it's all about to blow up in their faces.

My review:

I received a copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

What happens when you find out your best friend’s foster sister is actually the Greek goddess, Aphrodite? And you’re falling in love with her boyfriend? That’s where Brynn finds herself during her senior year of high school. The more she tries to deny her feelings, the more circumstances keep putting her on a path with Adam and in conflict with Val/Aphrodite. 

It definitely takes some willful suspension of disbelief to buy into an ancient Greek goddess hanging out in high school, but overall, it’s a cute story about friendship, family, and the power of love. There are some tense moments (particularly when a certain high-powered “Dad” gets involved). It’s a fun ride though with a sweet ever-after ending. There is a lot of typical, high school drama that is all dealt with in mature, positive ways. A few potentially upsetting themes are parental divorce, a parent committing adultery, an asthma attack, and people being caught outside in a lightning storm. 

Fun stuff:

The author shares some fun extras, like a character interview and social media graphics on her website here: https://justinemanzano.com/never-say-never-extras/ 

About the author:

Justine Manzano is a YA author who prides herself on her ability to juggle motherhood, writing, editing, and the very serious businesses of fangirling and multiple forms of geekery. When she’s not flailing about her favorite characters and actors, she struggles to create her own characters with the hopes someone will flail about them one day. Her debut novel, The Order of the Key, a Young Adult Urban Fantasy, is available everywhere books are sold from Black Rose Writing. Reviews have called it “Season 5 of Buffy meets the X-Men,” and Justine will likely live happily off of that description alone for the rest of her days. It was a finalist in the 2020 IndiesToday Awards. 

Her sophomore release, Never Say Never, a Young Adult Contemporary Romance with Fantasy Elements, will be released on June 15, 2021.

Me on the Map by Joan Sweeney

 

Me on the Map by Joan Sweeney
Publisher: Alfred A. Knopf Books for Young Readers
Published: September 18, 2018
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

Maps can show you where you are anywhere in the world! A beloved bestseller that helps children discover their place on the planet, now refreshed with new art from Qin Leng.

Where are you? Where is your room? Where is your home? Where is your town?

This playful introduction to maps shows children how easy it is to find where they live and how they fit in to the larger world. Filled with fun and adorable new illustrations by Qin Leng, this repackage of Me on the Map will show readers how easy it is to find the places they know and love with help from a map. 

My review:

I checked this book out of my public library. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

This edition has a different illustrator than the original print of the book. I am reading through all the books from the Build Your Library curriculum from Level 0 on up (this one is from Level 0) - at least the books my library has. This is the version my library had. It's a cute book - I loved the illustrations. 

I would recommend it for kids who like maps. It would go well with any educational unit on maps or geography. 

Adventures in Opting Out by Cait Flanders

Adventures in Opting Out by Cait Flanders 

Publisher: Little, Brown Spark

Publication Date [expected]: September 15th, 2020

My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

The link above is an affiliate link. If you make a purchase through it, I will receive a small amount of the sale, at no cost to you. It helps me make a little money to support my book reviewing hobby. Thank you! 

Publisher's description:

Opt out of expectations and live a more intentional life with this refreshing guide from the national bestselling author of The Year of Less.

We all follow our own path in life. At least, that's what we're told. In reality, many of us either do what is expected of us, or follow the invisible but well-worn paths that lead to what is culturally acceptable. For some, those paths are fine -- even great. But they leave some of us feeling disconnected from ourselves and what we really want to do. When that discomfort finally outweighs the fear of trying something new, we're ready to opt out.

After going through this process many times, Cait Flanders found there is an incredible parallel between taking a different path in life and the psychological work it takes to summit a mountain -- especially when you decide to go solo. In Adventures in Opting Out, she offers a trail map to help you with both. As you'll see, reaching the first viewpoint can be easy -- and it offers a glimpse of what you're walking toward. Climbing to the summit for the full view is worth it. But in the space between those two peaks you will enter a world completely unknown to you, and that is the most difficult part of the path to navigate.

With Flanders's guidance and advice, drawn from her own journey and stories of others, you'll have all the encouragement and insight you'll need to take the path less traveled and create the life you want. Just step up to the trailhead and expect it to be an adventure.

My review

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

I read Cait Flanders's first book, The Year of Less, three times... well, read it twice and listened to it once. It certainly is the book that planted the seed of minimalism into my brain. I'm FAR from a minimalist in my home yet... I have YEARS of stuff to get rid of first - not only my own stuff but multiple family members' stuff that got foisted upon me from their estates. I come from a long line of packrats and magpies. After having been nearly 100% responsible for cleaning out TWO giant houses filled with "things" now, I am NOT going to do that to my children... or continue to do it to myself! I think this book is an excellent followup to the intentional living mindset Ms Flanders laid out so well in her first book. I also think this book stands alone.

I will say it took me a bit to get into the groove of her hiking analogy she uses throughout the book. I will likely reread this book as well and, I'm sure, get even more out of it the second time through. The thing that really sticks out to me though is how much I want to gift this book to all the young people I know! I followed the path my family taught me was safe for too long and came to my life's passion much later than I would have liked. I love that she paints a realistic, though also optimistic, picture of "opting out"... taking YOUR own path even if no one has taken it before. Ms Flander's life and my own can't be much more different and yet I still get so much out of her words for myself. I especially think some of the vibrant young adults I know would get even more from this book... and hopefully (if they actually read it), it will spark a fire in them to find or continue on a path that is right for them and not just the one everyone else tells them to follow.

Kids' Review: A New Friend (The Adventures of Sophie Mouse #1) by Poppy Green

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A New Friend (The Adventures of Sophie Mouse #1) by Poppy Green

Publisher: Little Simon

Publication date: January 2015

My rating: 4 stars out of 5

Publisher's description

Springtime has arrived at Riverlake Forest! Buds are blooming on trees, and the air smells of honeysuckles. Sophie Mouse can't wait to go back to school after the long winter break. But she and her classmates are in for a surprise when they learn that they're getting a new classmate . . .

My review

I'm not even sure how I happened to pick this up at the library since it is really below Miss R's reading level, but there it was on the library shelf.

Review: Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty

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Big Little Lies by Liane Moriarty
Publisher: Berkley
Publication Date: July 29, 2014
My rating: 4 out of 5 stars

Publisher's description

Madeline is a force to be reckoned with. She’s funny and biting, passionate, she remembers everything and forgives no one. Her ex-husband and his yogi new wife have moved into her beloved beachside community, and their daughter is in the same kindergarten class as Madeline’s youngest (how is this possible?). And to top it all off, Madeline’s teenage daughter seems to be choosing Madeline’s ex-husband over her. (How. Is. This. Possible?).

Celeste is the kind of beautiful woman who makes the world stop and stare. While she may seem a bit flustered at times, who wouldn’t be, with those rambunctious twin boys? Now that the boys are starting school, Celeste and her husband look set to become the king and queen of the school parent body. But royalty often comes at a price, and Celeste is grappling with how much more she is willing to pay.

New to town, single mom Jane is so young that another mother mistakes her for the nanny. Jane is sad beyond her years and harbors secret doubts about her son. But why? While Madeline and Celeste soon take Jane under their wing, none of them realizes how the arrival of Jane and her inscrutable little boy will affect them all.

Big Little Lies is a brilliant take on ex-husbands and second wives, mothers and daughters, schoolyard scandal, and the dangerous little lies we tell ourselves just to survive. 

My review

I was predisposed to not like Big Little Lies after having finished Truly Madly Guilty recently and thinking it was just not great. I certainly did not see what the fuss was over Liane Moriarty. I had read The Husband’s Secret several years ago for book club and liked it well enough. But Truly Madly Guilty was so off the mark, I only picked up Big Little Lies because of the recommendations of other friends and bloggers. Fortunately I was willing to give Moriarty one more chance. With Big Little Lies, I can definitely see the fuss.

Madeline, Jane and Celeste all have children starting kindergarten together and they all have “man” issues. We start the book knowing someone has been murdered. Snippets of police interviews of other parents tell the reader that the murder happened at a big fundraiser at the elementary school. These interview snippets are often hilarious and help lighten the tone of a book filled with some weighty topics. Moriarty covers single parenthood, abandonment, divorce,    domestic violence, bullying, murder, secrets, and more. 

The book’s timeline walks us closer and closer to this fateful night. Before we get there, though, we fall in love with the characters. Yes, there is a giant mystery to be solved here, but Moriarty laces so much story telling and so many other little mysteries in along the way that the book is much more than just the big mystery. 

Madeline is a busy body full of verve but with secret doubts about her own aging and parenting skills. Celeste is a beauty who seemingly has it all - wealth, gorgeous husband, darling twin boys - but who has an inner melancholy. Jane is a new single mom in town and such a young kindergarten mother that she is first mistaken for a nanny. When Jane’s son is accused of bullying, the speculations run rampant. Even Jane questions her own child’s innocence. Everyone has secrets and those secrets all come crashing out on the fateful night of the school fundraiser. The author expertly keeps the reader in suspense, carefully doling out information to keep you reading (and reading and reading - often far past your bedtime) to see who gets murdered and who does the murdering. Will your favorite character survive?  


I am really not a television watcher but I’m looking forward to revisiting the characters in HBO’s miniseries based on the book. And I plan to pick up What Alice Forgot.  Moriarty’s books were nearly taken off my TBR pile. Thankfully, I gave her one more chance and I’m so glad I did. I highly recommend Big Little Lies. 

A Graceful Journey Through Small-Town Intrigue: Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger

Ordinary Grace by William Kent Krueger
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2015

“That was it. That was all of it. A grace so ordinary there was no reason at all to remember it. Yet I have never across the forty years since it was spoken forgotten a single word.” Ordinary Grace follows the lives of two young boys in small-town Minnesota in the summer of 1961. Death comes often that summer, and Frank and Jake find themselves more and more thrust into a grown-up world as they navigate the dynamics of their family and their town.

My favorite book is To Kill a Mockingbird. In the sense that this book also focused on the kids' perspective in a small town in a "simpler" time, Ordinary Grace reminded me of To Kill a Mockingbird. My enjoyment of Ordinary Grace benefited from my love of the Harper Lee classic. This book was, at its core, a who-dun-it - an enjoyable one. Some "conclusions" were evident initially, but many twists and turns surprised you.

The father, Nathan, was almost unbelievably gracious and forgiving, while the mother, Ruth, played foil with significant emotional instability. My favorite character was Gus, a friend of Nathan's from the war, who was constantly a rock upon which the boys could lean and a lighthouse in the dark to help Frank and Jake navigate challenging issues. Yet, he was flawed in authentic ways.

The one distraction for me was the layout of the town. The author didn't use a real town or a map of his imaginary town, or he was terrible at describing directions of things. I often found myself "lost" in town (no, the trestle is the OTHER WAY!). Or a description that something was past the edge of town, with a real sense that it was far away - tucked away on purpose - but then it was only a 5-minute car ride later. Or a bike ride in the middle of the night from the poor part of town to WAY up in the high-rent area - again, earlier depicted as far away - that takes very little time. Given how I mentally "Google map" my books, these discrepancies were jarringly noteworthy as I read.

All in all, an engaging read. This was a book club selection, not something I would have likely picked up.




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Resilience and Redemption: A Deep Dive into Karen White's 'The Sound of Glass'

The Sound of Glass by Karen White
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2015

You may have noticed that I've been hard on the last few realistic fiction books I reviewed. Well, that ends here. In fact, I've had a hard time thinking of anything critical to say about The Sound of Glass. Karen White has created a fantastic set of characters, broken and flawed but worthy of compassion.

At its core, The Sound of Glass is about an unlikely sisterhood of survivors of domestic violence. They are tied together across decades and by coincidence. Every character has tragedy in their background (or in their present). Each chapter shifts in voice between characters. In the current time, there is Merritt, the recent widow of a violent man, and Loralee, Merritt's step-mom, who is only five years older. With a voice spanning across the decades before, from 1955 to 1993, the reader hears Edith's perspective. Edith owns the grand Southern home, which is the backdrop to the story. She was the grandmother of Merritt's recently deceased husband. Merritt finds herself inheriting this old house, half a country (and, practically, a whole world) away from the only home she has ever known in Maine.

Ms. White took a rather complicated storyline with a complex set of characters. She wove them beautifully together into a story of new chances and redemptions. My favorite character was Loralee. Though all the characters in the book exhibited strength and grace (especially when they didn't believe themselves to possess either), Loralee was the one who helped build up and fortify everyone else. She had more strength, sass, and constitution in her pinky than most of us have in our whole bodies. And she did it all in lipstick and high heels. A reader who has never lived in the South may not find her character believable. However, having lived in Alabama for 15 years (Loralee's home state), she is entirely plausible - a steel magnolia.

When a book covers a trigger issue - in this case, domestic violence - I like to touch on it so readers who may be sensitive to the topic can make an informed decision. While domestic violence is this book's central theme, no scenes graphically depict it. There are references to what happened - a hand broken in a car door, being held underwater - but all references are made in remembrance or in the words of a letter. There is one first-hand account when the abusive grandson slaps Edith in one of her "flashback" chapters. This book is mainly about the victims finding themselves again and being strong.

I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys women's literature, realistic fiction, and books set in the South. The book also has a significant mystery element for those who like a good mystery. Both Merritt and her late husband hid secrets from each other. As such, much of the book is about Merritt uncovering his secrets and revealing her own. Be sure to keep a box of tissues handy!

I received a complimentary copy of The Sound of Glass in exchange for my honest review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

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Finding Redemption in the Woods: A Review of 'Season of Salt and Honey' by Hannah Tunnicliffe

Season of Salt and Honey by Hannah Tunnicliffe
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2015

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

Frankie has just lost her husband - or rather, the man who was supposed to have already been her husband if it hadn’t been for him waiting so VERY long to propose. Frankie & Alex started dating in high school, and over a decade later, they were just in the throws of planning a wedding when Alex died in a surfing accident. Frankie runs away from the funeral to Alex’s family’s old cabin in the woods. She hopes to escape the pain of her losses -her mother and now her fiance - but instead finds a colorful cast of characters who help her find a path through her pain. Along the way, she reconnects with her sister and forms a deeper bond with her would-be brother-in-law.

The best characters in the book are the secondary characters. Frankie herself is not terribly likable. She hung on to Alex for years past when most people would have demanded a significant other to “fish or cut bait”. While at the cabin, Frankie learns that Alex kept secrets from her that shake her even more. But, honestly, with many of the descriptions of Alex, it didn’t surprise me at all and made me wonder, yet again, why on Earth Frankie stayed with him. She really lacks self-confidence in the area of Alex and her job and many other aspects, but conversely, she acts “better than thou” to her sister. Her sister was a bit of a troublemaker, but Frankie was portrayed as pretty uncaring and unsupportive of her. Frankie has spent all her life trying to be “the good one” and blames her sister for this, but ultimately, I think this is on Frankie’s shoulders. Alex, even dead, also turns out to not be a terribly likable character.

The author makes up for much of this by creating a cast of secondary characters who are all deeply caring and likable. Her sister Bella is a much stronger and caring person than Frankie gives her credit for in her own mind and memory. Alex’s brother, Daniel, turns out to be more caring and kind than Alex ever was. And the cabin neighbors, Jack, Huia, and Merriem, help Frankie in a myriad of ways. The secondary characters really redeemed the book for me. Frankie wasn’t a sympathetic person to me, and I have a difficult time continuing a book when I don’t like the main characters. She is redeemed in the end, though, thanks to the lovely friends she makes in the woods. And that redemptive nature of the book, the fact that Frankie does learn and grow, won back the book for me. I did enjoy the book and, as a big fan of camping, I had no arguments with the serene setting that the author did a magnificent job of painting in the mind’s eye.

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Growing Up Catholic: A Review of 'A Theory of Expanded Love'

A Theory of Expanded Love by Caitlin Hicks
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Year read: 2015

I grew up in a “bad” Catholic family in a very Catholic neighborhood. "Bad" because there were only two kids - ten years apart. My parents had even set out only to have two kids, only they had wanted two close together. I had other ideas and arrived ten years after my sister. Marie was born in 1961, and I was born in 1971, so we are both a bit behind the age and time of Annie, but many of her experiences rang true.

Annie is #6 out of thirteen children in a large, strict Catholic family. The author continues to number the kids for the first part of the book, which helps keep track of who is who. Her father is authoritarian, recently retired from the Navy, and her mother seems almost mentally absent from the kids for much of the book - or at least from Annie. Annie is portrayed as her father's favorite and her sister, Jeannie (#7), as her mother's.

Annie is twelve going on thirteen. As the veil of childhood is pulled back from Annie's eyes, she starts developing a critical, self-thinking view of the world. This doesn't go well with the strict Catholic upbringing her father is so much trying to inflict on his children. The father brags to everyone about his large family. He prides himself on being one of the best Catholic families at St. Andrews. Still, he also criticizes the kids that he was held back from promotions and doesn't have a life of luxury because of them. This is an emotionally and sometimes physically abusive man. But despite all his attempts at tight control, his kids are growing up and making their own choices. He betrays his children at many turns to preserve his reputation over what is best for his family. As Annie sees these betrayals, especially to her sister Clara and to Annie herself, her eyes are opened to the hypocrisy.

Abuse is a central theme in this book. There is emotional, physical, and mild sexual abuse ("The Hands"). There is only one very vivid scene when the father uses a leather belt on Annie's hand at the dinner table in front of the whole family. I tend to be sensitive about scenes of abuse in books, but I was not bothered by anything in this novel.

Anyone from a big Catholic family (or any big family) could commiserate and feel compassion for Annie and her plight. It also provides an interesting window into the life of a big family and a Catholic family for anyone from neither. While the main character is a 12-year-old girl, the ideal reading age is a little older than that. It didn't read as a middle-grade novel at all. Times have certainly changed since the 1960s, which is evident in this book. It makes the case for the world being a much better place today than in 1963, so I wouldn't recommend this book to anyone nostalgic about a bygone era. The author does not paint a rosy tale. It is an excellent Coming of Age story about Annie, and I really enjoyed it.

I received a complimentary copy of A Theory of Expanded Love in exchange for my honest review. All opinions shared are 100% my own.

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Analyzing The Cupcake Caper: A Cozy Mystery with a Scientific Twist and an Adorable Feline Sidekick

The Cupcake Caper by Kelle Z. Riley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I like cozy mysteries... especially ones with cats or dogs or other adorable pets who get involved with solving crime. You need to engage in a little willful suspension of disbelief when it comes to cozy mysteries. Some of my favorite mystery solvers are librarians, pet store managers, and retirees - ordinary people who have a knack for sorting out clues to figure out whodunnit. I found Ms. Riley's choice of a scientist for her Sherlock-esque heroine, Dr. Bree Mayfield-Watson, in this book to be inspired. You really could see someone who is very analytical tackling solving a mystery for the sheer sake of discovery! This first in a series has the ubiquitous plot device of our main character being a suspect in a murder case - a storyline often used to get an ordinary person involved in solving a crime in order to clear their name. Given how logical and left-brained Bree is, I think she could become engaged in figuring out who murdered her boss without that particular plot device.

I was annoyed - put off, maybe? - a little by a couple unlikely choices Bree made, particularly when she withheld information from the police. Given that she endangered herself at almost every instance of this, I hope our main character learns in future additions to the series! The plot twist at the end was fun and is definitely setting up for a new twist on the cozy mystery genre with this series. I will definitely read the next book in the series when it comes out (no date given yet).

I can't forget to mention Sherlock - and I don't mean Bree. Sherlock is the cat Bree winds up with. Sherlock helps Bree solve the mystery. He is one smart kitty. I definitely hope we see as much and more of him in future installments. So, yes, even with our analytical, scientist heroine, there's a cute pet involved. There is no romance yet in the series either though there is potential for it. I do like to highlight when there is "sexy" content in a book, and there is none in this book. Just some possibly too-goofy ogling of two men in Bree's life.

Disclosure Statement:

I received a free Advance Reader Copy (ARC) of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. This in no way influences my opinions or the content of my review. My feedback is voluntary and unbiased. My thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an opportunity to read and review this book.

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