Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too!

309 pages

Pub date: 17 November 2026

Mystery & Thriller

Four stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

My thoughts:

I have long followed Phryne Fisher’s life and adventures in book form, as well as in the TV series. Miss Fisher is an eccentric character who has a wide circle of friends and connections, all of whom have their own distinct personalities.

This time, Phryne and her assistant Dot take the train to Bendigo. They are going there for the service making Phryne’s friend Lionel a Bishop. Phryne suspects that Lionel has an ulterior motive and, indeed he does as he involves Phryne in an investigation.

I love the characters, the settings throughout Australia in the books, the relationships and the cases. I particularly enjoyed the ecclesiastical background in this one.

I am so sad to know that this is the last book in this historical mystery series as sadly Kerry Greenwood is no longer alive. Long term friends, enjoy this last one. Others, you are lucky if you are able to go back and start the series from the very first book.

Fans of historical mysteries with minimal gore will enjoy this one.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this title. All opinions are my own.

Post first published on 19 October 2026

Description:

from the publisher

The indefatigable Miss Phryne Fisher returns to solve what may be her most puzzling murder to date!

When Phryne Fisher is invited to Bendigo to witness the investiture of her old friend Lionel, who is being made a Bishop, her expectations of the solemn and dignified ceremony do not include a murder in its midst.

Phryne is soon working with local Constable Watson and eagle-eyed Inspector Mick Kelly to identify the perpetrator. It becomes quickly apparent the murder victim had been an overzealous deacon with a nose for trouble. Nobody seems very inclined to mourn his passing.

Applying her quick wits and magnetic charm, Phryne and her expanding team of sleuths discover murky layers of church politics, social scandals, business scams, and blackmail. Soon, possible suspects begin to form a long list, all with excellent motives for killing the deacon. Could the murderer be his own wife? A visiting dignitary? The mysterious organist? The angelic Brookes? The unemployed teacher? And why is the Bishop’s Court being burgled?

The final–and perhaps most impossible–Phryne Fisher Mystery by beloved author Kerry Greenwood takes readers inside the often-unholy world of the clergy, where deception and murder lurk beneath the rustling vestments and in every shadowed corner.

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Editorial Reviews:

“This is an essential addition to historical mystery collections.” ― Library Journal

“While the mysteries remain clever, it’s the sharp characterizations that keep this long-running series fresh and relevant.” ― Kirkus Reviews

Note-Dench has a new book of reflections coming out in 2026

When I was contacted by the publisher with an invitation to read this book, I was over the moon. I had heard about it and was eagerly awaiting its release. It was an immeasurable treat to have early access.

This title offers a series of reflections and conversations between Judi Dench and Brendan O’Hea. Originally written for an archive, the two got the idea to publish a book together, and the reader is so lucky that they made that decision.

Within these pages, readers get to share in Judi’s life and her professional career. Her love for her husband, her daughter and her craft all come across. She is witty, wise, and it was an absolute pleasure to read her words.

Judi Dench and her husband, referred to Shakespeare as the man who pays the rent because they were in so many productions over the years. However, Shakespeare never really became routine for them and Judi brought her best self to every performance.

The first play that is reflected upon is Macbeth. Judi Dench very much views it as a play about the relationship between Lord and Lady Macbeth. She sees the deterioration of their marriage as a true tragedy.

Included here are Dench’s thoughts on nineteen plays interspersed with other reflections. A couple of examples of these are Company and Fireside Ramblings.

For anyone who admires Judi Dench or who wants to more deeply understand the bard, this book is a must read. I adored it.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 23 April 2024

Mystery and Thriller

368 pages

Pub date: 22 September 2026

Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

My thoughts:

Ever since I read my first Lady Emily novel, I have been hooked on this historical mystery series. It is always fun to catch up with Emily and Colin and to go on trips with them. Amazingly, here is the twentieth of their adventures.

Those familiar with the books know that Alexander likes to write novels with dual timelines. This time our intrepid duo travels to India where there are events in both their present and in the past. Of course, our couple finds a murder to solve and, naturally, readers get to know a woman from an earlier time period as well.

Those who enjoy historical mysteries will find this one is worth a look. Fans of the series will know what is ahead while new readers may want to read this one and then go to the backlist.

Many thanks to St. Martin’s Press-Minotaur for this title. All opinions are my own.

Description:

from the publisher

In this next enthralling mystery in Tasha Alexander’s bestselling series, Lady Emily chases down a killer in India along the misty banks of the sacred river Narmada.

1908: Lady Emily and her husband Colin Hargreaves, along with an eccentric group of English tourists, are vacationing in India at Ahilya Fort, the old home to the Maharaja’s family, when a man is found shot along the Narmada River. Emily and Colin jump into action, but their suspect list is large, including a wonderful spinster and her not-so-wonderful companion; a local doctor; a widow who lives nearby; an English explorer; and an Englishman who now runs a tea plantation near Darjeeling.

1740: Fifteen-year-old Ahilyabai has been married to the son of Malharrao Holkar, the Lord of the Malwa territory, for seven years. Now the time has finally come to produce an heir. But though Ahilya’s in-laws have shown her nothing but kindness, her notoriously-drunken husband remains a mystery to her, having rarely spoken to Ahilya since their wedding as children. Faced with this tortured and distant man, Ahilya’s sense of loyalty is tested as she attempts to balance fulfilling her duty with forging her own destiny. Her decisions will have ripple effects across time—including Lady Emily’s investigation almost two hundred years later.

Lady Emily’s case takes a dramatic turn when a shocking new person arrives at the fort—and when the killer strikes again shortly afterwards, she and Colin must race to uncover the villain’s identity before it’s too late.

#StarringAdeleAstaire #NetGalley

I enjoyed Eliza Knight’s earlier novel, The Mayfair Bookshop, which was about Nancy Mitford. I was therefore eager to see how this author would tell Adele Astaire’s story; readers can rest assured that she has done a good job.

Many are familiar with Fred Astaire, here called Freddy when he was younger; this makes him feel more approachable and vulnerable than the star that is often pictured. Although perhaps less well known, Fred’s sister, Adele, danced with him for many years. While in this story, Freddie is often seen as quite serious, Adele wants to have some fun.

The two Astaires, with this last name that they were not born to, began dancing as young children. With all of their talent they went far. In part of this story, they are the toast of London as their newest show is a great success. This leads them to mingle with many famous people; just two of whom were Noel Coward and David, the Prince of Wales.

In these pages, Adele is portrayed as questioning what she wants in life. Is it dance and fame or could it be a marriage and family?

Adele’s foil is the fictional Violet, a young woman whom Adele befriends. Violet has grown up poor; she is hard working and passionate about dance. Her story is told as it intersects with Adele’s.

Rich with period details, glamour and a good story line, this is a title to pick up. Recommended for historical fiction fans.

Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 06 June 2023

From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Starring Adele Astaire peels back the layers on Adele Astaire’s life beyond the stage while highlighting how ferociously an intrepid dreamer must fight for an edge into the spotlight. Eliza Knight’s in-depth research brings these stories to life in exquisite, vibrant detail that will captivate readers everywhere.” — Madeline Martin, New York Times and international bestselling author

“Just as Adele Astaire received standing ovations for her performances, so too does Eliza Knight deserve to be similarly acclaimed for this book. I can’t believe I’d never heard of this incredible woman and I loved how the novel shone a well-deserved spotlight on this less famous but exceptionally talented Astaire sibling. Bravo Eliza Knight – and please take a bow. You’ve written a showstopper of a story.”  — Natasha Lester, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Orphan

128 pages

Puzzles

Pub date: 25 November 2025

Four stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

My thoughts:

This is the first in a series of puzzle/mystery books by this author. In each, readers visit Cranberry Creek, complete with a map of what the town looks like.

Each title has a cozy mystery that is accompanied by word search puzzles that relate to the story’s themes. This one features protagonist Abby’s bookstore.

This series is perfect for when a relaxing break is on the agenda. They won’t overly tax the brain but that is a good thing.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Adams Media for this title. All thoughts are my own.

Description:

from the publisher

A cozy mystery story combined with themed word search puzzles creates an interactive and charming whodunit experience in this fun new format that invites you to solve the case as you uncover clues.

Abby Jones has it all figured out: moving to Cranberry Creek will give her the fresh start she needs. From opening her brand-new bookstore on Main Street to learning to love her busybody landlady, Myrna, to spending her time on her favorite cozy hobby (word searches!), Abby has her hands full. But when a famous author is mysteriously murdered at her bookstore’s opening event, her new future is at stake. It’s up to Abby, with the help of some new friends, to solve the case.

From the Publisher

#TheWindsorAffair #NetGalley

Historical Fiction

370 pages

Pub date: 02 June 2026

Four stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Description:

from the publisher

A scandalous affair. A power struggle for the throne. A sensational rivalry between an English queen and an American social climber. In this electrifying novel, the New York Times bestselling author of The Swans of Fifth Avenue tells the story of the Abdication of Edward VIII—and the two women at the center of it all.

“As deliciously dishy as an English cream tea and the royal gossip whispered over it!”—Kate Quinn, author of The Astral Library

Feuding Windsor brothers and their wives—some things, it seems, never change. The Windsor Affair recreates the cataclysmic events that nearly toppled the monarchy and incited the power struggle between Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and Wallis Simpson. Told from the perspective of both women, the novel propels readers into the fabulous world of the debonair Prince of Wales, café society of the 1930s, and the glittering private lives of the Windsors. The first novel to be dedicated to this infamous rivalry, The Windsor Affair brings us all the gossip and intrigue between the two very different—yet perhaps more similar than they would admit—wives of royals.

As Queen, Elizabeth would become the symbol of British pluck and courage during World War II and remain a British institution the rest of her long life. Wallis would be forever forced to enact the World’s Greatest Love Story even after it sours, as she goes from being admired to vilified and, ultimately, pitied. Against the backdrop of the Abdication Crisis, World War II, coronations, funerals, births, and deaths, these two women maintain a biting, sharp-tongued feud—until age and the long arm of history bring about a kind of understanding. For the last communication between these bitter rivals was a simple, surprising message: “In friendship, Elizabeth.”

My thoughts:

Many are aware of the conflict between Princes Harry and William, and their wives. Of course, history often repeats itself and that is the case in some ways today. Because, of course, before Harry and William, there were David and Bertie, two brothers with wives who also did not like each other. In each of these eras, important decisions were made that affected the monarchy and the personal lives of family members.

In this book, Benjamin very enjoyably tells the stories of Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon and Wallis Warfield Simpson and those around them. Their experiences growing up were so different as were their fates. Wallis grew up poor and wanted security. Elizabeth grew up secure and was not seeking to become Queen. Yet as each married a Windsor brother their lives were set on a course. There were trying times ahead for both.

Even those who think that they know a lot about these historical personages will find much to like in these pages. They will leave the book understanding more about the women’s relationships, responsibilities and decisions.

It is easy to recommend this title to those who enjoy historical fiction and/or those who enjoy stories about British royalty.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Ballantine for this title. All opinions are my own.

From the Publisher:

From Library Journal:

VERDICT Both a sweeping account of nearly a century of royal history and an intimate look into the characters of the two women at the center of it all, this will please readers who enjoyed Benjamin’s previous novels or those who can’t get enough of the drama of the House of Windsor.

#BigIdeasfromArt #NetGalley

Children’s nonfiction-Art

192 pages

Four stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

Pub date: 06 October 2026

My thoughts:

I like the subtitle of this book which is “Learning to Appreciate Art and Creativity.” In a world where schools don’t always take the time to teach about art, here is a good introduction for kids.

This title is divided into sections including What is Art; Remembering, Appreciation, Hope, Sadness, Balance, Making Sense of Money and, finally Art in your life. Throughout the book, readers will find vibrant illustrations and reproductions of art works accompanying the text.

Kids are immediately invited into the book when, on the first page, they are asked to remember an art work that they made. From this beginning, this title strives to connect art with the individual child who has picked up this book. I think that the authors do an excellent job with this task.

I recommend this title for kids who are in elementary school and above. The authors really try to speak to them on their level. It may just well enlighten them and change a life or two.

I think that there are also adults who would enjoy looking at this title. Perhaps they could do so with a child that they know.

Many thanks to NetGalley and The School of Life for this title. All opinions are my own.

Description:

from the publisher

This NEW Big Ideas Series book introduces art as something children can use, not just study. It shows how art connects to our feelings, helps us understand ourselves, and can bring comfort, excitement and joy. Readers will learn how to look at art without feeling bored, what kinds of art might help in different moods, and why everyone becomes an art expert long before they ever visit a museum.

Clear, engaging and reassuring, this book encourages children to be curious, confident and independent in their responses to art — while quietly offering adults a fresh way to think about it too.

#BadWords #NetGalley

Literary fiction-Romance

Pub date: 06 October 2026

Four stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟

My thoughts:

This novel has received glowing reviews. This, in itself, may be enough to make a reader pick up this title. Once they do, I think that they will keep reading.

This is a novel that offers many insights about the publishing world in addition to its enemies to committed partners trope. The protagonists truly do start this novel as antagonists.

Parker is a writer whose first book brought him an unimaginable advance. His second novel is just being published. However, the fly in his ointment is book reviewer/critic Selina who absolutely pans his works. The two really get into it when they see each other at an event. No spoiler as this happens early in the novel, their interaction goes viral.

Robinson uses this cleverly by giving readers what is said about this interaction. This means that her narrative fears into texts and more.

Robinson also raises interesting dilemmas. Should reviewers give anything other than brutally honest reviews? Should they consider how their devastating reviews impact authors? What do readers want to know about the books they are considering reading?

Readers will watch as Parker and Selina spar and then…

This book will be enjoyed by those who like books about the book world. It will also be liked by those who enjoy the dynamics of relationships.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this title. All thoughts are my own.

Description:

from the publisher

A GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK!

“A book that could only ever have been written by Ríoghnach Robinson, whose clear, clever voice and incisive social commentary elevate the book’s irresistible will-they-won’t-they romance to a once-in-a-lifetime read about truth, art, vulnerability, and all the sticky places they intersect. BAD WORDS LEFT ME BUZZING.” – EMILY HENRY, #1 New York Times bestselling author

A sharp and deeply felt debut about the connections that both inspire and undo us.

Parker Navarro’s debut novel was meant to define his career – until critic Selina Chan’s blistering review made it the flop of the decade. Four years later, his new book is his shot at redemption; for Selina, reviewing him again is a professional risk she can’t refuse. When her second takedown ignites a viral feud, both their fortunes shift overnight. But as the literary world feeds on their public sparring, a quieter dialogue begins – one that challenges everything they thought they knew about success, sincerity, and each other.

Both incisive and tender, Bad Words lays bare the costs of creation – the pull between ambition and integrity, the vulnerability of being seen, and the unexpected closeness that can grow in the space between critique and care.

“A genre-redefining romance that sets a thrilling new standard… Easily one of my favourites of the year, if not the decade.” – Carley Fortune, #1 New York Times bestselling author

“Full of blistering barbs, incisive takedowns and searing gazes, Bad Words is smart and propulsive.” – Mary H.K. Choi, New York Times bestselling author

Some of the editorial reviews:

A GOOD MORNING AMERICA BOOK CLUB PICK!

A #1 Indie Next Pick!

“Robinson’s enemies-to-lovers rom-com follows Parker, a struggling author whose debut novel was torched by a bad review, and Selina, the critic who panned his work. When their confrontation over Selina’s equally scathing assessment of Parker’s second novel goes viral, the pair find themselves sucked into a very public rivalry—even as they realize they may not despise each other after all.” – The New York Times

“Sharp, playful and not to be missed.” – People

“Meet your new favorite romance writer: This buzzy new romance… also asks poignant questions about art and ambition, probing the motivations behind why artists create.” – Harper’s Bazaar

“If you’re looking for a fresh enemies-to-lovers tale, Ríoghnach Robinson’s sharp romance is consistently surprising and thoughtful, with a slow-burn relationship that feels earned and true. The novel is a lovely look at passionate, fumbling people and the ways we hurt and discover each other without really trying.” – Us Weekly

“Delicious. It’s an enticing combination for those who enjoy reading about literary intrigue and love.” – BookPage

“A rom-com with plenty of heft, in the way it nails the effects of social media on how we talk, read, and even think; in its prescient landscape of bookstores’ and City’s fight to survive; in how Selina and Parker each struggle to fit into their very different families; and in its heady, romantic toppling of its protagonists’ expectations.”- Booklist (starred)

“A smart, thought-provoking adult debut that’s perfect for bibliophiles. [Robinson] toys with a slow-burn romance, but the love story ultimately takes a back seat to a conversation about craft, ambition, and what it means to truly love and stand by what you create. A unique and complex commentary about being perceived.” – Kirkus

“This smart, funny gem of a novel is a valentine to books and the words within them. Robinson’s spot-on descriptions of the publishing industry are catnip for bibliophiles, and the enemies-to-lovers storyline feels fresh and completely genuine. But it is Robinson’s deep love of the written word as the path to understanding and connecting with others that shines through every page.” – Shelf Awareness

From the Publisher:

Native Hawaiian Ackerman sets her newest novel in a place she knows well and clearly loves. I am sure that, like Iwa, she is concerned about the ecology of the island.

Two people meet. They are Iwa and Dane. Each has feelings for Hawaii though their work and hopes for the island may differ. When they meet, what will happen? How will their pasts influence their futures? Throw in rain forests, surfing, Portugal and the novel moves forward.

Those who like books with settings that are vividly brought to life will enjoy this title. The same is true for those who like to read romances.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the team at HTP for this title. All opinions are my own.

From the Publisher

#DaysattheMorisakiBookshop #NetGalley

This book was so easy for me to love. It is short (under 200 pages) and a paean to what books, bookshops and reading can mean to people.

Two of the main characters are a twenty-something young woman who has been hurt in a relationship and has, as a result, left her job. She goes to stay with an uncle who has taken over the family used bookstore.

When Takako first arrives, she has no interest in reading but one night all that changes. Through her, readers discover the excitement and sweetness that happens when the world of books opens to a person.

The neighborhood where the bookshop is located is a real one. I would love to go there.

This book is filled with quotable moments. For example:

It was as if, without realizing it, I had opened a door I had never known existed…It was as if a love of reading had been sleeping somewhere deep inside me all this time, an then it suddenly sprang to life. ..And there was no danger Id run out of books…It made me feel like I had been wasting my life…

Anyone who loves books and/or books about books, read this one. You won’t be sorry.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Perennial for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 04 July 2023