Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses!

Let’s find out more about: All the Presidents Gardens (Maria McDowell)

#AllthePresidentsGardens #NetGalley

There are so many ways to learn about history and many different approaches. The author of this book looks at the White House gardens and how they have grown and changed along with the country.

This book has many illustrations that drew me in. The text moves through history starting with the 1790s (after the information at the front of the book). The garden’s story progresses through the 1990s and beyond.

Find out about what was happening in this garden during times as disparate as George Washington’s era, the Civil War period, the time of the Suffragettes, the days of Victory Gardens, the Kennedy Rose Garden’s creation and more leading to the present. 

This author knows her subject and includes much of interest in these pages. All The Presidents Gardens will be enjoyed by both gardeners and American history buffs. 

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

Pub date: 02 January 2024

Get ready to read: Cozy Case Files (Volume 20)

#CozyCaseFilesVolume20 #NetGalley

I love this free publication. There is no better way to decidewhich cozy mysteries to add to your book list. This volume includes information about new titles by by Ellie Alexander; Rhys Bowen; Clare Broyles; Olivia Blacke; Jennifer J. Chow; Anastasia Hastings; Olivia Matthews; Gigi Pandian; Mindy Quigley; and Paige Shelton. For each mystery, readers will see a synopsis, information about the author and a generous excerpt from the book. I have just added several new titles to my 2024 reading. 

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

Pub date: 24 January 24

Should they be feared: Dangerous Women (Mark de Castrique)

Ethel is 73 years old. She can play the senior citizen card when needed but there is so much more to this vibrant woman. Ethel has retired from the FBI but her quick brain, skills, and schemes are as fresh and effective as ever. Get to know her in this enjoyable mystery/caper about murders and shenanigans affecting the Supreme Court.

The author juggles a lot in terms of a complicated scheme in which it takes a little while for readers to figure out what is going on. There are senators, supreme court justices and their clerks, the FBI, Ethel’s relative and friends along with all living in a DC that comes to life here. There is a serious issue underpinning the story that has to do with a Supreme Court’s pending decision on precious metals and mining. The issue feels quite timely.

Those who enjoy cozy thrillers (is there such a thing?) are certain to want to read this one. There is an earlier title in the series as well and I hope that there will be a third to come.

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

This title was published in October 2023