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!

How does she do it: Maude Horton’s Glorious Revenge (Lizzie Pook)

This book may not be for everyone; for example, a reader of cozies will find this too dark. But, for its audience, this title will be welcomed as an original and immersive read.

Lizzie Pook’s sister disguised herself as a boy to go to sea (the Arctic). She never returned. What happened to her? Will her journals provide an answer? What will Lizzie do to find out? Well, for one thing, she will get to know Edison Stowe better.

There is a lot of Victorian life in these pages. This includes public hangings so be warned.

This book has been highly praised:

Brilliant . . . Pook’s masterful pacing and meticulous attention to historical detail make this sing. Fans of Stuart Tarton’s high seas whodunits will be rapt.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

“A spellbinding novel set in the frozen Arctic and in London during the height of murder mania…. Pook paints a macabre image of a time when death was often more valuable than life itself.”—Kirkus

“In a stellar follow-up to her debut, Moonlight and the Pearler’s Daughter (2022), Pook once again weaves a rousing tale around the escapades of a bold, spirited, and cunning woman.”—Booklist

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for this title. All opinions are my own.

From the Publisher

Maude Horton's Glorious Revenge

The Bookshop Sisterhood (Michelle Lindo-Rice)

 #TheBookshopSisterhood #NetGalley

This is the story of four friends who want to open a bookshop. They are Celeste who has recently been a carjacking victim; Toni, an influencer, with some big secrets; Leslie who is facing major crises with both her daughter and husband; and, Yasmeen who begins the book much less privileged than her friends.

This story was a bit over the top at times and melodramatic BUT I could not stop turning the pages. I really wanted to know how things would turn out for each of these women and their store.

As a bonus, the novel gives shout outs to a number of books. Readers may want to add some of these to their own lists.

Those who enjoy stories about friendship and women at crossroads will want to give this title a look.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 30 July 2024-MARK YOUR CALENDAR

Join the blog tour to meet: The Girls from Sandycove

I am delighted to be part of the blog tour for this enjoyable title. Many thanks to the publisher and Rachel’s Random Resources for this opportunity. 

About the book

A mother and daughter adrift, a friend in need, and a village to call home…

When Kate O’Hare discovers she’s pregnant, she is determined to return to her hometown of Sandycove in Dublin.

On the other side of the Atlantic, her estranged mother, international superstar, Lola, is heartbroken following the loss of her soulmate, Paulie. On hearing Kate’s plan, Lola follows her, seeking a second chance at motherhood.

Kate discovers her best friend, Flora, is back in her childhood bedroom, her marriage and self-esteem in tatters following her husband’s public betrayal.

Flora now finds herself with no husband, home, or future, while her own mother Patsy is stepping out of her comfort zone into the world of interiors. Can Patsy’s new life reignite Flora’s talent and creativity?

And what of the O’Hare family secret which has the power to unlock a pathway to greater mutual understanding? And will music and the magic of Sandycove be enough to empower the women through such challenging times?

An emotive story of forgiveness, new beginnings and happy-ever-afters…

My thoughts:

I wanted to read this book as soon as I saw the cover. I loved spending time with the women of Sandycove. There are mothers and daughters, friendships, relationships to resolve and more. In addition to the characters and plot, I also loved the Irish setting. This title is sure to be enjoyed by lovers of good stories about female characters and those around them.

The writer:

Author Bio –

Sian O’Gorman was born in Galway and now lives just along the coast from Dublin. She works as a radio producer alongside writing contemporary women’s fiction inspired by friend and family relationships.

Purchase Link – https://mybook.to/girlssandycovesocial

Social Media Links –  

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/sian.ogorman.7

Twitter https://twitter.com/msogorman

Instagram https://www.instagram.com/msogorman/

Newsletter Sign Up: https://bit.ly/SianOGormanNews

Bookbub profile: Siân O’Gorman Books – BookBub

What can be done: Only in Florida (Heather Alexander)

 #OnlyinFlorida #NetGalley

This is a great book for kids and their adults to read if/when they are planning a Florida vacation. The illustrations throughout are quite inviting and there is also lots of information and suggestions in these pages. Just some of the topics covered are Stats & Facts, Museums & Attractions, Food, Miami, the Keys and much more.

Kids can learn lots of facts to share with others in these pages. It is a great guide.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 05 March 2024