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!

The Glory of Designs by Women (It’s About Time) – The New York Times

The Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Costume Institute reimagines the record of fashion, celebrating designers known but also those long, and wrongly, forgotten.
— Read on www.nytimes.com/2023/12/07/arts/design/women-designers-met-museum.html

THINK about this if you read The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard by Natasha Lester. Reviewed on my blog

Now out: Leo Messi

Even people who don’t know much about soccer are probably familiar with the name Leo Messi. He is probably the (or certainly one of the) greatest soccer players ever. Messi serves as an inspiration to all kids who enjoy this game.

In this latest entry in the Little People, Big Dreams series find out about Messi’s early years and his route to greatness. It is an inspiring story. In addition, those who are interested will find additional resources at the end of the book.

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

What was: The Spanish Diplomat’s Secret (Nev March)

This is the third entry in the historical mystery series that began with A Murder in Old Bombay. This new book can be read on its own but those who want to know more about how Captain Jim Agnihotri and his wife Lady Diana Framji met and came together as a couple (despite their rather different backgrounds), will I think want to read the first novel.

This story is really a very large, locked room mystery. Jim and Diana are on a ship bound for England when there is a murder. Given his background, the captain pleads for Jim’s help in solving the case before the cruise is over.

Who was the Spanish diplomat? Why was there a murder? Will Jim find the answers and the culprit (readers can be pretty certain that he will)? Furthermore, what has been troubling Diana?

This story will be enjoyed by those who gravitate toward historical mysteries. It is an interesting read albeit a bit slow at times.

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

This title was published in September 2023

What happens when there is a: Death at a Scottish Wedding (Lucy Connelly)

#DeathataScottishWedding #NetGalley

Here is the second in a series, following on An American in Scotland. Those with a fondness for traditional mysteries set within the UK will want to take a look at both of these titles.

The American in Scotland is Dr. Emilia McRoy who is starting to feel more at home in her new country. She is invited to attend a multi day wedding celebration and accepts.

Most fortunately, Dr. McRoy is a coroner and a constable owns the wedding venue, a castle. So, when everyone gets snowed in and a murder occurs, investigators are right there.

This novel uses a familiar mystery trope, that of a group of suspects who are isolated from the rest of the world. There are a number of twists and turns. Find out both who the victim was and “whodunnit” in this enjoyable mystery. I look forward to the next entry in the series.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Crooked Lane Books for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 09 January 2023