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!

Sometimes it is down to:Bear Necessity by James Gould-Bourn

This book is about connection and family and the ways that we find our way to people. As this story opens, protagonist Danny’s life is falling apart. He has no job and his son has not spoken since his mother’s death. Will was with his mother when she died in an accident. Things are looking bleak.

In an interesting plot twist, Danny buys a panda costume, hoping to get money on the street. He happens to see his son being bullied. Danny’s son talks to this panda man not knowing who he is. Read the book to find out what happens to this father and son as they cope with their grief. PW describes the story as a bit “lightweight.” See what you think if you pick this one up.

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

Pub date: 04 August 2020

A retelling: Shakespeare’s Tales: Hamlet

by Samantha Newman

Arcturus Publishing puts out classics that have been rewritten for young readers. I like these titles and hope that they will encourage kids to look at the originals when they are a bit older.

This one is part of the series of Shakespearean plays. The story of Hamlet is well told and the key elements are included in this illustrated title. The publisher notes that there are some difficult aspects to the story. In my opinion these include the murder/death of a parent, ghosts, Ophelia’s fate and more. They suggest that this one be read with an adult or for an adult to take the time to speak with a child once they have finished reading. I agree.

Still, it is a compelling tale and one that I think will hold the reader’s attention.

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

Pub Date 01 Jul 2022

Audiobook Review: ‘The Number Ones,’ by Tom Breihan; ‘How Far the Light Reaches,’ by Sabrina Imbler; ‘Young Bloomsbury,’ by Nino Strachey – The New York Times

From Bloomsbury to the Billboard Hot 100, these audiobooks will hook you based on story alone.
— Read on www.nytimes.com/2022/12/23/books/review/audiobooks-the-number-ones-tom-breihan-how-far-the-light-reaches-sabrina-imbler-young-bloomsbury-nino-strachey.html

A seasonal sentiment: Christmas from the Heart

by Sheila Roberts

#ChristmasFromTheHeart #NetGalley

Now that Christmas is just past, here is a review for a Christmas themed novel. Read it now or a year from now, either will be good for those who enjoy holiday novels.

This is a story based on coincidence so some suspension of disbelief is needed. A wealthy guy is stranded in a small town where a young woman, that he has spoken with about her grandmother’s charity, lives. But….he does not at first acknowledge who he is. Will the two work through all that they need to and find romance? Readers probably know the answer but that is exactly why books like this are popular. Readers can simply relax and enjoy as the plot unfolds.

Those who enjoy women’s fiction, small towns and holidays will want to take a look at this book.

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

Pub date: 24 September 2019

What caused: A Death in Chelsea by Lynn Brittney

#AdeathInChelsea #NetGalley1

This book is the second in an historical mystery series set in 1920s London. The twist is that a group of women are instrumental in solving the crimes. They work with a traditional male detective.

In this entry, a woman is dead. Was she hanged or was it murder? Most mystery aficionados know the answer to that and will want to read on. The victim, Lady Adeline, was a reporter of society’s doings but it is unclear how she came about her knowledge. What is clear is that she had enemies. Who is responsible for this death and why was she murdered?

This book will be enjoyed by those who like historical crime stories in which women are active in solving the case.

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

Pub date: 14 March 2019

I previously reviewed the first in this series. There are four titles in all.

A WWI mystery-Murder in Belgravia by Brittney