This is the author’s second novel, following on the well regarded Violin Conspiracy. I very much enjoy that these are music based stories. Think the world of composing is quiet? Well, not exactly when it may turn out that someone who claimed authorship of some works, may have had no right to do so.
What did Josephine Reed compose in the 1930s? What was her relationship with another composer named Delaney? Why is one of Delaney’s relative contacting protagonist Bern Hendricks? Who else will be involved as things become complicated? Will wrongs be righted? What is the role of race in the story and its events? Read this enjoyable, thoughtful sophomore work by the author to find out.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Anchor Books for this title. All opinions are my own.
Advance praise for Brendan Slocumb’s Symphony of Secrets
“Music lovers will revel in Symphony of Secrets, a novel that is at once a celebration of music and also a cautionary tale about legacy, privilege, and creative genius.” —Nita Prose, #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Maid
“Absolutely brilliant! Once again, Slocumb’s consummate skills are on vivid display as he gives us a fascinating page-turner that slips back and forth in time and seamlessly blends a heart-pounding thriller, a heartfelt look at family and quiet heroism, and a searing exposé of issues stretching from deep in our country’s past to the very present. The ‘secret’ of his title is apt indeed. And as for the cast: nobody creates rich, fully formed characters like Brendan Slocumb. Some books we finish and move on. This one will stay with you long after you turn the final page.” —Jeffery Deaver, New York Times bestselling author of The Bone Collectorand Hunting Time
“A twisty, mesmerizing mystery—Brendan Slocumb’s writing is like music itself, dancing elegantly from the page.” —Danya Kukafka, bestselling author of Notes On An Execution
“With Symphony of Secrets, Slocumb has woven an incredible thriller about music, genius, history, and greed—and how easily innocent passion can turn to dangerous, deadly obsession. You won’t be able to put it down until the last note!” —Peng Shepherd, author of The Cartographers
ONE OF THE NEW YORK TIMES BOOK REVIEW AND THE WASHINGTON POST’S TEN BEST BOOKS OF THE YEAR A BEST BOOK OF THE YEAR: Time, The Boston Globe, NPR, Chicago Public Library, The Star Tribune, The Economist, The Christian Science Monitor, Real Simple, Kirkus Reviews, Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Bookreporter
It is clear from the above that North Woods is a special book. Anyone who enjoys an immersive read will want to give this title a look. It tells the story of a place over the course of many years and many lives and through many narrative threads. As an added perspective, there is much on nature in these pages.
The story begins with the Puritans; readers get to know these first (and all of the other characters) well. All have stories to tell and their lives cover many years of American history.
I highly recommend this complex and rewarding book. Get to know the yellow house. Take the time to enjoy time spent there.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.
Colm Toibin is a beautiful writer. I adored his novel, Brooklyn, and there are other titles by him that I would like to read. The Shortest Day by this favorite author is a short story and one that seems appropriate for this time of year with the solstice approaching.
The Shortest Day is a gorgeous story written by a master. I was immersed in its world so quickly. The tale is about an archaeologist who is researching a site, Newgrange, that brings to mind a sacred site like Stonehenge. He is a man of reason and proofs. Readers observe him, his wife and his personality.
Within Newgrange are the spirits of those from a time almost before time. These spirits have personalities, vanities, tempers and other qualities of humans. They await a special light that comes only once each year on the shortest day. This light sustains them in times ahead. The spirits do NOT want an archaeologist to visit at this sacred time.
From this set up, what happens? I highly encourage you to read this short story to find out. I was engrossed in this tale while I was told a story by a most competent, capable and intriguing master.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
This book offers a chance to get to know many Greek women rather than the men. Just some of those kids will meet are Aphrodite, Hera, Pandora, Artemis, Echo, Medea, Medusa and Sappho.
Each woman gets her due with beautiful illustrations, the story of who they are and sections called “Did You Know?” and Symbols. This book is quite easy to dip in and out of with the interesting entries.
Highly recommended for home and school bookshelves. Note that there is a resource section at the end.
Many thanks to Callisto Publishing-Callisto Kids and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 03 February 2026
Post first published on 9 January 2026
Description:
from the publisher
Discover extraordinary women from Greek mythology—51 stories for kids ages 8 to 12
Dive into this dazzling, mythological story collection that celebrates 51 of the bold, brave, talented, and fearless female heroes of Greek mythology! Inside, you’ll meet goddesses, warriors, princesses, and beyond who used their power and skills to win battles, protect their homes, and rule the realm.
Written especially for kids, these stories are exciting, inspiring, and fun, getting them interested in folklore, excited to read, and giving them amazing women to root for!
Incredible myths and stories—Enter the world of Greek myth icons like Persephone, the goddess of the spring, Aphrodite, the goddess of love, Medusa, the gorgon with snakes for hair, and so many more!
Fun facts with each figure—Each story includes the symbols associated with each figure, like foods or animals, and an extra fun fact about Greek mythology!
Gorgeous illustrations and portraits—Bring these heroes to life with beautiful, full-color, illustrated artwork of each woman.
Female Heroes of Greek Mythology goes beyond the popular Greek myths to highlight a wide variety of amazing and powerful women!
Armitage’s debut is quite assured and demonstrates a firm knowledge and grasp of British royalty. Some of these characters and circumstances skate pretty close to events that happened and to real people. For example, Lexi’s mother will certainly be compared to Diana and there are many other connections for the reader.
The story itself is engaging. While the book is about a royal, a non-royal will, I think, relate to what happens when life suddenly changes and important decisions have to be made. What Lexi will choose is a major plot point.
Lexi has turned her back on England as the story begins. She is in Australia and in her second year of a medical residency when she is urgently called back due to a horrific tragedy. This puts Lexi back in contact with her family and prior life.
Readers come to understand Lexi, her family and events in a story that takes place in the present and past. The pages turn as readers share her life in this long, just over 400 page, novel.
Reese Witherspoon chose this for her book club. I can understand why.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for this title. All thoughts are my own.
Pub date: 02 December 2025
Post first published on 4 February 2026
Description:
from the publisher
An irresistible modern fairy tale about a British princess who must decide between her duty to her family—or to her own heart.
A Reese’s Book Club Pick!
It’s New Year’s Day in Australia and the life Lexi Villiers has carefully built is working out nicely: she’s in the second year of her medical residency, she lives on a beautiful farm with her two best friends Finn and Jack, and she’s about to finally become more-than-friendly with Jack—when a helicopter abruptly lands.
Out steps her grandmother’s right-hand-man, with the tragic news that her father and older brother have been killed in a skiing accident. Lexi’s grandmother happens to be the Queen of England, and in addition to the shock and grief, Lexi must now accept the reality that she is suddenly next in line for the throne—a role she has publicly disavowed.
Returning to London as the heir apparent Princess Alexandrina, Lexi is greeted by a skeptical public not ready to forgive her defection, a grieving sister-in-law harboring an explosive secret, and a scheming uncle determined to claim the throne himself.
Her recent life—and Jack—grow ever more distant as she feels the tug of tradition, of love for her grandmother, and of obligation. When her grandmother grants her one year to decide, Lexi must choose her own destiny: will it be determined by an accident of birth—or by love?
“There’s nothing better than snuggling up with a great story this time of year. The December Reese’s Book Club pick, The Heir Apparent by Rebecca Armitage, has everything I love in a holiday read—royals, romance, family twists, and a woman finding her own path. Can’t wait for you to dive in.” —Reese Witherspoon
“One of the best books I’ve read all year.” —Natasha Lester, New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Seamstress
From the Publisher:
Editorial reviews:
“Tiaras, titles, and titillating royals abound in this engrossing debut from Armitage…The Heir Apparent is filled with secrets, scandals, and a few unexpected twists, including a forbidden and beautiful love story…Armitage’s writing is spectacular, with rich dialogue and descriptions, a vibrant depiction of the burden of duty versus personal freedom, and unique insights into royal life.”―Booklist (starred review)
“Feels and reads like an adult version of The Princess Diaries…With Armitage’s expertise, she has crafted a novel about an exiled royal that is so believable that it could have actually happened…A sharply written novel rich with insight into the lives of royal families, as well as a beautifully crafted story that will have you waiting for Armitage’s next release.”―BookTrib
“In Armitage’s perceptive debut, the British monarchy navigates a crisis following the death of two heirs…A standout portrayal of the royals and the tabloid culture surrounding them.”―Publishers Weekly
“The author’s deep knowledge of all things royal adds realism and texture to this entertaining debut.”―Kirkus Reviews
#TheMagnificentLivesofMarjoriePost #NetGalley Pub Date 15 Feb 2022 |
Readers of historical fiction, mark your calendars for this books release da te. It is fabulous.
Allison Pataki tells the story of Marjorie Merriweather Post from her childhood right on through her “many lives.” She was a daughter, wife (multiple times), mother, key part of Post (later known as General) Foods, society woman, charitable worker and donor, ambassador’s wife, builder of multiple estates and more. The pages just flew as I followed Marjorie through her life.
Readers will travel with Marjorie to many locations. Among these are Battle Creek, Washington DC, Manhattan, the Adirondacks, Palm Beach (Mar-a-Lago) and Moscow. Readers experience Marjorie’s own experiences in each of these places.
Relationships were a big part of Marjorie’s life. No spoiler so I won’t write about how many times she married or who her husbands or children were.
I so highly recommend this book to those who enjoy historical fiction. It is one of the best that I have read in this genre.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.
Becoming Mrs. Lewis by Patti Callhan tells the story of Joy Davidman and C.S. (Jack) Lewis. I absolutely adored that book so was thrilled when I received an early review copy of Once Upon a Wardrobe, another novel about C.S. Lewis.
The structure of the story is that George, a young boy with a heart defect, discovers The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe and wants to know more about it. George’s sister, who loves him deeply, shares that Lewis is at Oxford where she, Megs, is a student. Wanting to do what she can for George, Megs gets to know Jack and Warnie and brings the tales that Lewis shares home to her brother.
Jack’s life story is beautifully told. There were very hard times and yet a man emerged who is so beloved by many. I won’t detail the biography so that readers can discover it for themselves.
George is preternaturally wise about life while Megs is perhaps less so. Over the course of the novel, she learns that her beloved scientific point of view and way of solving problems is but one way to look at the world. She and George are both deeply human, seeking, loving people with whom readers will enjoy spending time.
Those who have read the Narnia stories will eagerly read this title looking for the same insights that young George is seeking…to understand where the characters in the books came from, who they may have been based on and more. Will those answers be in these pages? You will need to read the novel to find out.
Those who have not read the Narnia books can still love this title. Its insight into a person’s life with all of its tragedies and peaceful moments are for all readers.
I give this one my highest recommendation. Ms. Callahan your talent for understanding Lewis and life are so impressive.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Emylia Hall has become one of my favorite authors of traditional mysteries. Each of her titles is now a must read for me with my always looking forward to the next in the series.
This time, as the story opens, Jayden and Cat are celebrating with some time alone at an ultra luxury hotel in Cornwall. (If it weren’t for the nefarious events, I would certainly stay there!) The two run into someone with whom Cat went to school. Summer is now a travel blogger on a paid junket that she hopes to enjoy with her boyfriend, Blake.
However, soon so many things go wrong. An ex (abusive) policeman is murdered leaving behind a number of suspects but not many mourners. Summer’s boyfriend and others are arrested.
Are the crimes related to abusive police tactics? Broken promises? A 40 year old “accident?” The pages will turn as readers watch for the resolution.
Ally and Jayden have been hired to look into the case. Readers can trust that they will solve it as Hall tells an involving story.
I love the settings of the Shell House series. The light, the water and the atmosphere of Cornwall are so vivid in these stories. I also very much like spending time with the many recurring characters and watching their relationships evolve and grow.
I highly recommend this book and series. I feel that it is most deserving of more attention and readers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK-Thomas Mercer for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 04 November 2025
Post first published on 25 December 2025
Description:
from the publisher
“Atmospheric, propulsive, and menacing . . . the perfect mystery to curl up with this autumn.”—Lucy Clarke
“Few writers can pull off a devilishly twisting mystery while infusing the story with such soul” —Emma Stonex
A violent storm. An isolated hotel. A brutal murder. The Shell House Detectives are on the case—and everyone here is a suspect.
The High Tide Hotel, overlooking stunning Trebaron Cove, is a dream destination for an autumnal getaway. But the serene atmosphere of this luxury enclave is shattered when the body of a guest is discovered on the terrace, directly below their balcony.
The victim’s friend is adamant that this was no accident, and when it emerges that the dead man was a detective with a chequered past, the police enquiry intensifies. Meanwhile fellow guest Jayden, one half of the Shell House Detectives, wastes no time in bringing Ally on board to help find the killer.
With the hotel cut off by a storm on the night of the murder, everyone at the High Tide is a suspect. As Ally and Jayden delve deeper into the pasts of both guests and staff, they uncover a mass of secrets and complex connections. Who wanted this man dead—or rather, who wanted him dead most? As the tide turns, the investigation leads them into a life-or-death situation. Who will pay the final price for discovering the truth?
A Note From the Publisher
Emylia Hall lives in Bristol with her husband and son, where she writes from a hut in the garden and dreams of the sea. She is the author of the Shell House Detective Mysteries, a series inspired by her love of Cornwall’s wild landscape. The first, The Shell House Detectives, was a Kindle Top 10 Bestseller, with the rights being optioned for TV. The High Tide Murder is her sixth crime novel. Emylia has published four previous novels, including Richard and Judy Book Club pick The Book of Summers and The Thousand Lights Hotel. Her work has been translated into ten languages, and broadcast on BBC Radio 6 Music. She is the founder of Mothership Writers and is a writing coach at The Novelry.
Instagram: @emyliahall_author
X: @emyliahall
Editorial Reviews
Review
‘Atmospheric, propulsive, and menacing—plus all the deliciously cosy Shell House vibes—The High Tide Murder is the perfect mystery to curl up with this autumn.’ —Lucy Clarke
‘A new Emylia Hall novel is always such a treat and The High Tide Murder did not disappoint. I was gripped from the very first page, unable to put the book down until the end. A brilliant cast of characters, brimming with emotion and intrigue, all set against an escapist Cornish backdrop. What more could you want?’ —Libby Page
‘I loved this book for its intelligent plotting, its bursting heart, its clever surprises, and its company of characters who have fast come to feel like family. Few writers can pull off a devilishly twisting mystery while infusing the story with such soul; I savoured every page of this wonderful, life-affirming read and cannot wait for the next one.’ —Emma Stonex
‘Windswept and utterly unputdownable, this is the perfect winter read. The Shell House detectives are fast becoming my favourite literary duo and Emylia Hall is a genius. Brilliant!’ —Veronica Henry
This book is part of a series which has also included New York. Paris, Venice, Rome, Barcelona and Berlin. I will certainly look at some of the other titles. Each is geared to helping a young traveler enjoy a visit to a new city.
I found this title to be most inviting. The note to adults feels spot on and I liked the owl who leads the kids around. Throughout there are vibrant and appealing illustrations. Kids can follow four itineraries with a good amount of information on a number of attractions. There is also information on nearby places like Crete and Santorini, to name just two.
Adults and kids can definitely enjoy this book together. I am happy to recommend it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and White Star-White Star Kids for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 14 April 2026
Description:
from the publisher
A kid-friendly guide to Athens packed with fun stories, secret spots, and hands-on adventures!
This interactive guide turns Athens into a playground for young explorers and their families. With fun itineraries, children can uncover the secrets of mythology, learn about gods and heroes, and discover archaeological sites while learning fun stories about the city’s history and legends. Packed with games, curiosities, and hands-on activities, it makes cultural exploration exciting and educational while adults enjoy practical tips and insider insights. Perfect for families ready to turn travel into an unforgettable adventure!
A Guided Tour of Athens: A journey into the heart of mythology, with gods, heroes, and must-see archaeological sites
Educational and Fun Content: Introduces culture and history in a kid-friendly way
Perfect for Family Travel: Simple, stimulating itineraries make trips enriching for both children and adults
Practical Format: Lightweight and compact, perfect for carrying during explorations
Part of the Young Explorers Series: Discover the other travel guides made for kids to enjoy and learn about the world’s most unique cities!
This title is published on 3 February 2026 and is highly recommended!!
#ThisBookMadeMeThinkofYou #NetGalley
I was so very excited when Berkley approved me for this title as I have enjoyed Libby Page’s novels ever since I came across The Lido. Picking a favorite book of hers is not easy but this one might just be it. It was sooo good.
This is a story for anyone who can imagine a tragic loss and the need to find a way forward. It is also for anyone who loves books. The intersection comes in this novel when the books lead to healing for Tilly Nightingale.
Not a spoiler because readers know this almost immediately, Tilly is a young widow. She desperately misses her husband Joe. He is very much a presence throughout this story.
Joe has left a unique gift for Tilly. Every month for a year, there will be a book waiting for her at a local bookshop. I do not want to spoil the fun by revealing any of these (real) book titles.
Each book leads to something for Tilly. There is growth through travel, for example. Again, I don’t want to spoil the reader’s pleasure by saying more.
For each month of the year, Page also has a list of books by topic. Readers will get some good suggestions in these.
Even though this title is predicated on loss, in some ways it felt like a fairy tale to me. Readers will hope for something of a happy ending by the novel’s end.
Meet Tilly and a rather special bookshop owner. Spend time with Tilly’s family and friends. Finish this book and start asking when will a new book by Libby Page come out?
I highly recommend this title. I loved it.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 03 February 2026
Post first published on 15 December 2025
About the book:
from the publisher
A woman receives an unexpected gift from the man she loved and lost—a year of books, one for every month—launching a reading-inspired journey to live, dream, and love again in this glimmering and heart-stopping novel.
Twelve books. Twelve months. One chance to heal her heart…
When Tilly Nightingale receives a call telling her there’s a birthday gift from her husband waiting for her at her local bookshop, it couldn’t come as more of a shock. Partly because she can’t remember the last time she read a book for pleasure. But mainly because Joe died five months ago….
When she goes to pick up the present, Alfie, the bookshop owner with kind eyes, explains the gift—twelve carefully chosen books with handwritten letters from Joe, one for each month, to help her turn the page on her first year without him.
At first Tilly can’t imagine sinking into a fictional world, but Joe’s tender words convince her to try, and something remarkable happens—Tilly becomes immersed in the pages, and a new chapter begins to unfold in her own life. Monthly trips to the bookstore—and heartfelt conversations with Alfie—give Tilly the comfort she craves and the courage to set out on a series of reading-inspired adventures that take her around the world. But as she begins to share her journey with others, her story—like a book—becomes more than her own.
Reviews:
“A beautifully crafted tribute to books, booksellers, and the transformative power of reading… Readers of all kinds will be captivated by this tender exploration of loss, healing, and the enduring connections that books create.”—Library Journal (starred review)
“Page creates a cozy world that shimmers with whimsy even as she delicately explores grief… The novel serves as a reminder that books have the power to shape lives… The perfect cozy read for book lovers, sure to break and heal hearts.”—Kirkus (starred review)
About Libby Page:
from Amazon
Libby Page is a Sunday Times bestselling author whose work has been published in over 20 territories around the world. Before becoming an author, she worked in journalism and marketing. She is a keen outdoor swimmer and lives in Somerset with her husband and young son.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 