Jodi Picoult has a magical talent for writing novels that address social issues and concerns while, at the same time, offering readers an involving story with plot, character and a bit of education. This time the background (and foreground) issue is the Covid epidemic. For some readers, it might still feel too close and they might want to skip reading this title. I would argue against that. In addition to re-experiencing some of the trauma, I was also reminded of how far life has come (at least for those who have been vaccinated). This, of course, does not mitigate the deep losses that so many experienced in the real world. The protagonist of this novel is Diana. When the story opens, she is working for Sotheby’s and is in a relationship with a surgical resident at New York Presbyterian Hospital. Diana is working with a client who seems to be based upon Yoko Ono. Due to Diana’s work, readers are treated to some interesting art and music history. I enjoyably learned a lot about Toulouse Lautrec. Diana and Finn are planning a trip to the Galapagos Islands. Finn cannot/chooses not to go because of the emerging pandemic and his need to be at work. He encourages Diana to go on the trip and she does. Finn’s emails to Diana offer all of the horror of Covid, especially the early impotence that medical professionals felt in the wake of this tsunami of an epidemic. Diana makes it to the Galapagos but is stranded there because travel is cut off. She manages to get settled, leading her to meet with a troubled adolescent, her father and her grandmother. They open Diana up to a new world. It is most likely no coincidence that our main character is living where theories of evolution were formed as she may be adapting and changing too. The Galapagos are beautifully described and form a contrast to life in New York. Which place is right for Diana? Which relationship? What plot twists will Ms. Picoult bring to this, her latest novel? Read the book to find out. I highly recommend it. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I started reading this novel soon after Serena Williams retired and when I had tennis on my brain. Carrie is not Serena but there is no doubt that tennis has defined her life. As the story opens, Carrie is at the U.S. Open waiting to see if her long held record for most wins will be shattered. From here the book moves back in time to when she first began playing and goes forward to the time of the book’s title.
I understand the basics of tennis but don’t have the knowledge base to know how accurate the descriptions in the matches played were. I know that they were deeply involving and that I always wondered how Carrie would do.
This novel, however, is not just about Carrie’s tennis but is also about Carrie. She has a rather hard and brittle shell and most although most everything about her has been about tennis, she has things to figure out. Readers get to know the people around her; there are those that she lets in to some degree. The most important one is her father who has shared Carrie’s dream. Another is a player on the male circuit named Bowe and, of course, many of the women players.
Along with a page turning story, this novel offers some food for thought. Are we our accomplishments? Does winning mean everything? How is it to have to deal with being in a constant limelight? What happens when a game that one started to play out of love becomes so dominant? No spoilers for the end of the book. Find out for yourself what happens to Carrie.
I recommend this title to tennis lovers, Taylor Jenkins Reid’s fan base and those who enjoy an involving story.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 30 August 2022
From the Publisher
Editorial Reviews
Review
“The books in Reid’s famous women quartet stand alone. . . . But each of the books centers a vibrant protagonist managing the tensions between her glamorous life in the public eye and the pressures she feels in private . . . with Reid meticulously collecting minute yet meaningful details to help build immersive worlds”—TIME
“Carrie Soto [Is Back] . . . is like other sports novels in which underdogs punch, volley, bat and birdie their way to victory or additional defeat, but it goes beyond this to explore sexism and racism in the tennis world in the 1990s. . . . This novel will grab you. You’ll tear through blow-by-blow descriptions of championship matches on some of the most famous tennis courts in the world. . . .”—The Washington Post
“An epic story about bravery, endurance, but also the power of vulnerability.”—BuzzFeed
“Reid . . . draws on the lives of actual tennis pros (think Serena, Sharapova) to build a world of believable rivalries and intrigue infused with the whiplash suspense of a nail-biting tennis match.”—People (Book of the Week)
“Nearly every Taylor Jenkins Reid novel reads like a survey course in some flagrantly glamorous specialty and era. . . . Come for the King Richard–level attention to the art of the game; stay for the more personal soap operas unfolding off the court, and the final score.”—Entertainment Weekly
This novel is a richly imagined, evocative and detailed portrait of life in England, Europe and the U.S. in the years surrounding WW II. The book focuses on the Kennedys and their circle.
Readers will spend time with staunchly Catholic parents, Joe and Rose, who have many aspirations for their children. Joe Jr. and JFK are portrayed as they fall in love and commit to service in the war. Rosemary and her emotional struggles are described and the younger Kennedy children also have a place. The book though is most especially the story of Kathleen (Kick) Kennedy and her friends, colleague, romances and search for meaning.
Kick falls in love with England where she strives to find a worthwhile life while also enjoying a busy social life with her friends, including Deborah Mitford and her circle. Kick is always aware of what is expected of her as a Kennedy but struggles with this.
Nowadays when marriages are not universally expected to take place between people who are the same (the same race, religion, socioeconomic status, etc.), it is hard to recall that this was not always the case. However, when Kathleen (Kick) Kennedy, of Irish background and Catholic, falls in love with Billy, an aristocratic British, Protestant, her parents clearly do not approve. How Kick chooses to live her life forms the core of the novel. I do not want to put in any spoilers so will stop here.
I found The Kennedy Debutante to be an excellent historical novel. I hope that you will too!
“Brain-teasing mysteries presented in something like a fairytale framework.” —Kirkus
Description:
from the publisher
A Japanese The Thursday Murder Club, taking healing fiction for a mystery-filled spin with this bestseller that has sold more than 200,000 copies in Japan.
He’s not your average Grandpa.
As a lover of classic crime stories, it’s no surprise that schoolteacher Kaede encounters everyday mysteries more often than your typical twenty-seven-year-old.
Solving them is another matter, though. For that, she turns to her beloved grandfather, who retains a keen sharpness of mind despite his dementia, and who was once a key member of The Waseda Mystery Club. From impossible locked room murders to confounding missing persons cases, the grandfather-granddaughter duo “weave stories” to get to the bottom of every mystery. But all the while, an insidious shadow from Kaede’s past slowly closes in on her . . .
Steeped in references to classic crime from Christie to Chesterton to Poe, My Grandfather, the Master Detective plays with the genre, capturing readers’ imagination in this Tokyo-set escapist mystery. Its charming characters and affectionate focus on relationships echo heartwarming Japanese titles such as Before the Coffee Gets Cold.
My thoughts:
This book offers an enjoyable read that features, as protagonists, a grandfather and granddaughter. Readers learn early on that the grandfather has been diagnosed with lewy body dementia. (It is important for the reader to know something about this condition but I felt that there may have been a bit more information given than a general reader might need.) The granddaughter visits regularly, cares deeply for him and shares his love of mysteries.
When a number of real life mysteries come to Kaede’s attention, she and two men whom she knows, try to solve them. Grandfather also helps. At the same time, something from Kaede’s past willl come up. How will this impact Kaede and the other characters? How will Kaede and her friends negotiate their relationships? Will there be a bit of romance?
Throughout these pages, there are references to many mystery novels. I enjoyed that aspect of this title.
I think that this book will be welcomed by those who have read Asian books such as Hot Chocolate on Thursday, and those who enjoyed other mysteries featuring at least one character of a “certain” age.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Putnam for this title. All opinions are my own.
I was drawn to this book by both its title and cover. I always look at books that are about books and the 1940s look of this one also appealed to me. True confession-I had never before read anything by this author. I will definitely be reading from her backlist as I very much enjoyed this title.
Martha’s Vineyard…WWII…Sisters…Relationships…Those who may want to stay or leave…Class distinctions…Publishing…Books…all excellent ingredients for (historical) fiction.
The story came to life as a character in the present travels to Martha’s Vineyard to learn more about her recently deceased mother. The artist with whom she connects, Elizabeth Devereaux, has a lot to say and this forms the part of the narrative set in the past. Much happens to Cadence and Briar as readers will discover.
Through this novel, I learned something about what life was like for the islanders during WWII. Think u-boats for one. This was interesting as it was a change from the many stories set in France during the period.
Anyone who enjoys historical fiction and/or good stories about women will want to pick this one up.
Of interest is the author’s note about what inspired her to write this novel.
Many thanks to Random House and Ballantine for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 27 May 2025
Editorial Reviews
Review
“Martha Hall Kelly’s tale of the home front is simply irresistible. Coming of age in dangerous times, the Smith girls find strength in dreams, family, the land, and in the life-changing power of books. This story drew me in, then swept me away!”—Lisa Wingate, #1 New York Times bestselling author of Shelterwood
“A dreamy beach book that also sizzles with tension . . . another winner by one of the best historical fiction writers around.”—Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Stolen Queen
“A heart-in-your-mouth tale of family, friendship, and romance as a small American island finds itself on a potential frontline of World War II.”—Charmaine Wilkerson, New York Times bestselling author of Black Cake
“Celebrates the magic of books, family, and truth as several women—bound by blood and friendship—discover their destinies.”—Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Daughter
“Martha Hall Kelly turns her pen stateside to Martha’s Vineyard during World War II, where the Smith sisters realize the war will leave their world forever changed . . . A delight.”—Kate Quinn, New York Times bestsellingauthor of The Briar Club
“Inspired by true events, Kelly’s new novel explores friendship, family dynamics, and the power of books to unite communities. Recommended for historical fiction readers who enjoy the work of Kristin Hannah, Marie Benedict, and Kate Quinn.”—Library Journal
“The best book yet from this talented author/illustrator, and one that children will love.” — School Library Journal, starred review
“Consistently beautiful.” — The New York Times
A deluxe reissue of a classic picture book about creativity, courage, and imagination, perfect for children who love art, storytelling, and meaningful adventures.
A gust of wind sends a handmade paper princess flying. “Wait! I didn’t finish you,” cries the little girl who made her. “I’ll finish myself,” calls the princess as the wind carries her away—over a meadow and river, to a carnival and a playground, and finally back home.
This beloved picture book by Elisa Kleven follows one small paper princess on a vibrant, imaginative journey of self-discovery. Told with lyrical simplicity and illustrated in Kleven’s signature mixed-media collage, the story celebrates creativity, resilience, and belonging as the princess learns to find her own way in the world.
Here’s what makes The Paper Princessa timeless treasure:
•A Beloved Classic Returns: Back in print after years of reader demand, Elisa Kleven’s cherished story continues to inspire a new generation of children.
• A Princess Unlike Any Other: This imaginative heroine doesn’t rely on castles or crowns. She discovers her strength through creativity, curiosity, and determination.
• Stunning Mixed-Media Artwork: Elisa Kleven’s signature collage illustrations create vibrant miniature worlds filled with texture, color, and playful detail.
• A Story About Courage and Belonging: Through her journey, the princess learns that confidence and character grow from within.
• A Deluxe Gift Edition: Featuring foil stamping and sculptural embossing, this edition makes a beautiful keepsake for families and classrooms.
The Paper Princess is a beautiful picture book about imagination, creativity, and finding your way, perfect for young readers, classrooms, and anyone who believes in the power of art and storytelling.
My thoughts:
Sometimes a lot of thought can go into a short book. That certainly is the case here in the story of a girl, the paper doll that she created and that doll’s adventures when she blows away. Young listeners will hope that the two will be reunited.
Kleven has written a title that pulls the reader right in with its appealing imagery. There is a drawing with “socks like starry skies,” for example. The rest of the text is similarly engaging and imaginative.
I absolutely adore the illustrations in these pages. They are very sweet, detailed and colorful.
This would make a lovely read for an adult and small child. There is also lots that could be talked about in the illustrations.
Many thanks to NetGalley and The Collective Book Studio-Tiny Torch Books for this title. All opinions are my own.
Editorial Reviews:
From School Library Journal
PreSchool-Grade 3-A little girl draws and cuts out a picture of a princess. When the paper doll is blown away by a gust of wind, she travels far and wide and finally, through a coincidence worthy of The Steadfast Tin Soldier, ends up with her own little girl again. Kleven has taken this simple story and given it style and heart. The events, some of which are either purely fanciful or highly unlikely, all seem authentic. Giving an inanimate object a believable personality is not an easy feat, and the author does a fine job of it. Her graceful phrases add a lyrical air, and emotions are described with a light and delicate touch. Her multimedium collages have never looked fresher or more interesting. The world she creates is not necessarily free from danger or sadness, yet it is predominantly full of beauty and sunlight. All the elements of the visual arts-texture, pattern, shape, color, and line-come alive in her skillful hands. The best book yet from this talented author/illustrator, and one that children will love. Lauralyn Persson, Wilmette Public Library, IL Copyright 1994 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Ages 5-7. A little girl draws a brave and friendly looking princess on a piece of paper and then cuts her out. But before the child can decide what kind of hair to give her new friend, the wind sweeps down and carries the paper princess away. Flying over the city, searching for the perfect hair and her way back home, the princess learns a lot about life and the ways of the world. With her shoes like watermelons and her dress like a forest, the paper princess is both childlike and princesslike (indeed, she is friendly and brave). Kleven’s collage artwork is as spectacular as it was in Abuela (1991): it celebrates family, diversity, and individuality. This magical world, in which blue jays have feathers of Florentine paper and princesses have sweaters to wear when they go flying, is full of the spirit of creativity and the importance of play in defining one’s home. Kathryn Broderick
For fans of Her Hidden Genius and The Engineer’s Wife comes the awe-inspiring true story of Caroline Herschel, an 18th century astronomer who lived in the shadow of her brother, but learned to pave her own path among the stars.
1772. Caroline Herschel is beholden to her wildly popular musician brother, William, who rescued her from servitude and brought her to live a comfortable life in Bath. Caroline vows that, because William saved her, she must always remain by his side. When William becomes obsessed with the science of astronomy, Caroline follows suit, and soon, the duo are moving to Windsor to be close to court, so they can advise the king about the stars and become members of the Royal Astronomical Society. Overshadowed by her brother, Caroline quietly studies the stars, attributing her success to the men in her life. But when it becomes clear that Caroline is just as much the astronomer as the men in society, she will have to break free from the life she’s lived, and find her own place amongst the stars.
Based on the true story of Caroline Lucretia Herschel (1750-1848), The Woman and Her Stars shines a light on a woman who was raised to believe she was worth nothing more than to serve others, but whose genius and resolve made her one of the world’s leading astronomers. An inspiring story set within the societal boundaries of the Regency era, it is a journey of self-belief, friendship, and triumph.
My thoughts:
I enjoy reading historical fiction. I like entering worlds and times with real personages, even though I know this is not biography.
This story about Caroline Herschel will be enjoyed by those who like stories about women who did not fully conform to the expectations of their times. It is always satisfying to see such women given a voice, even if, as here, it is many years later.
Caroline Herschel was a woman who made an astounding discovery. Get to know her and her brothers in this novel and find out how she accomplished all that she did.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks-Landmark for this title. All thoughts are my own.
Imagine that you are Cam and that your entire world is turned upside down. You have always found your husband, Luke, to be pretty laid back and so supportive. He cooks! Both of you are exhausted but adore your baby, Polly. And, Luke is so good that you always have some time to have a break and read. Imagine that you are a book agent, ready to go back to work on your first day…AND THEN, the unthinkable happens.
Your husband wasn’t there when you woke up and left a somewhat cryptic note. You soon discover that he is involved in a tense hostage situation. WTF (as the rude might say). How can this be? Why? How do you a piece a life back together after this? Did you ever know your spouse? Where is he? Alive? Not?
Also, imagine That you are Niall. He was the hostage negotiator. The decisions that you made are haunting you.
How will events unfold? Find out in this page turner. I was absolutely glued to it and recommend it highly for those who enjoy suspenseful stories.
Many thanks to NetGalley and William Morrow for this title. All opinions are my own.
This novel is a richly imagined, evocative and detailed portrait of life in England, Europe and the U.S. in the years surrounding WW II. The book focuses on the Kennedys and their circle.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 