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!

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

There is: Hope for Widows (Marilyn Nutter)

#HopeforWidows #NetGalley

This is not the book anyone dreams of. Who in a happy relationship wants to face the death of a partner? And yet, of course, this is a part of life. Sadly, two friends of mine are currently in the early stages of figuring out this new identity.

The author of this book understands what it means to become a widow. Nutter knows that it is a change of immense magnitude. She tries to gently guide and offer support to the members of this (unwanted) club. 

The reflections in this book are divided into chapters. A few of these are titled Some Widows Say, Gratitude List, Spiraling, and The Presence of a Friend. Each chapter has a number of short entries. There are suggestions in them for building on the entries with reflections and thoughts. There are also a number of quotes about grief scattered through the pages.

Our Daily Bread is a religious publisher but I don’t think one has to be Christian to find some solace in these pages. Take a look at  this one for someone you know and sadly, perhaps for yourself one day.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Our Daily Bread Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pu date: 02 January 2024