Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

A Novel

by Sarah Miller

Anyone who has read Little Women, whether once or many times, knows exactly who Marmee is. She is the mother of the famous March girls. Jo, Beth, Meg and Amy love her very much and rely upon her, especially while their father is awat as a Civil War chaplain. They also aspire to be like her.

Those who recall the novel with fondness and who would like a slight change of perspective, will enjoy this story that is told from Marmee/Margaret/Peg’s point of view. The story line includes well known events from Alcott’s novel while adding a deeper insight into the woman who was Marmee. I enjoyed spending time with her and seeing her as a more human and less idealized figure. Just one of my favorite quotes from the novel is: “Criticizing others is so often a circuitous way of praising ourselves. ”

This book will be enjoyed by fans of Little Women and historical fiction fans in general. Its use of diary entries brings the reader close to Marmee’s thoughts. Be sure to read the author’s note as well for her perspective.

Many thanks to William Morrow/Mariner and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 25 October 2022

The Golden Sayings

by Epictetus

This title is one that asks the reader to pay attention and to consider the words on the page. They were written by a Greek philosopher of the Stoic school. There is much wisdom here for the thoughtful reader. Go in order or simply browse. See if anything speaks to you about how to live your life.

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

Pub date: 09 August 2022

For those who may not know, Beantown is a nickname for Boston, Massachusetts. The three protagonists of this novel, leave the area during WWII and head to Europe where they will work as, what were known as , Red Cross Clubmobile Girls.

Fiona is motivated by the upending of her life when her fiance is reported missing. She takes two friends along. Viviana looks forward to adventure while Dottie is less outgoing but has a talent for music. All three will be challenged by their experiences and will grow over the course of the novel. Follow them as they do in this long historical novel.

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

Pub Date 05 Feb 2019

Other opinions:

“Healey relied on diaries, letters, and other records left by real-life Clubmobile Service girls to create this straightforward tale serving a slice of WWII history.” —Booklist

“While the characters are fictional, Healey meticulously researched these women and based much of the book on historical events and information gathered from primary sources, thus giving the reader the fullest sense of what these women accomplished.” —Historical Novel Society

by Gökçe İrten

#AllofUs #NetGalley

This book celebrates how we, kids in this instance, are all alike in so many ways. The author acknowledges universal actions and feelings that connect people as humans. Interesting illustrations accompany the text. Along with the painted artwork, there are moments when photos come into play. Sometimes these are rather playful as, for example, when Einstein’s head is put on a drawn figure.

This book offers a nice way to encourage tolerance and acceptance without actually naming those terms. It is a “show” and not “tell” text which makes it feel more authentic.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Princeton Architectural Press. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 25 October 2022

by Clara McKenna

Here is the third entry in an enjoyable historical mystery series. Altogether, there are four books so far.

This time, Stella (an American) is to marry her British fiance. As readers of the genre well know, things will not just proceed to plan. Rather, there is murder and mayhem. What is the significance of a particular wedding gift? Why did a victim have a clipping about Morrington Hall, the wedding venue? What role will Stella’s father play in events? Will all come right in the end and will the wedding take place? Keep reading to find out as Stella and Lyndy work to resolve matters.

Recommended for fans of pretty cozy historical mysteries.

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

Pub date: 29 June 2021

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

#AnnaPavlova #NetGalley

In this entry in the informative series, readers learn about Anna Pavlova. She dreamed of being a ballerina from a very young age. Find out how she achieved her dream and what she also gave to others in this delightfully illustrated title..

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

Pub date: 01 November 2022

by Tammy Euliano

Note that this title is currently just $1.99 in its e book version.

Anesthesiologist and protagonist of this novel, Kate, thinks that too many of her elderly patients are dying. Because this is a medical thriller, of course her colleagues do not believe her and give her a hard time. However, Kate will not let go despite professional setbacks and she investigates. Along the way she is helped by her great aunt and a lawyer. There will be excitement and danger before everything is resolved.

The author of this first novel knows whereof she speaks. This is a medical thriller written by a physician; this lends a sense of authenticity to what follows.

Those who enjoy stories that combine medicine and suspense will enjoy this title. Note that there is a second book coming out by this author. It is titled Misfire and will be released in January.

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

Pub date: 02 August 2021

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Medical suspense as sharp as it gets. Euliano is off to a good, no, a brilliant start.” —Kathy Reichs, New York Times best-selling author

“This is terrific—delicious suspense, done-that authenticity, and a great main character in Dr. Kate Downey . . . We want to see more of her.” —Lee Child, New York Times best-selling author

“Fatal Intent rings with thrilling authenticity. Tammy Euliano writes with convincing authority, immersing us in a world only a doctor truly knows.” —Tess Gerritsen, New York Times best-selling author

“Tense and fulfilling, there’s plenty of sizzle and emotional clout in this stirring debut. And, even better, it’s all written by someone who knows what she’s talking about. A wonderful beginning and I’m looking forward to more.” —Steve Berry, New York Times best-selling author