Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

At 900 pages, “The Last Chairlift,” his 15th novel, is an overstuffed family saga about a screenwriter very much like the author himself.
— Read on www.nytimes.com/2022/10/18/books/the-last-chairlift-john-irving.html

The stories behind iconic artworks

by Debra N. Mancoff

#MakingAMasterpiece #NetGalley

This lavishly illustrated title tells the stories behind twelve well-known artworks. The paintings include everything from Botticelli’s Birth of Venus to Amery Sherald’s portrait of Michelle Obama. Interestingly to me, many are paintings of or by women. There are the Mona Lisa, Judith Beheading Holofernes and Woman in Gold, for example.

Each featured art work is labeled a masterpiece, a term that is defined in this title’s introduction. The history of the word is also discussed. The author also talks about the current plurality in the art world and questions how masterpieces may (or may not) fit within this framework.

Each of these works is discussed in depth. Ways in which a given painting has influenced more contemporary artists is also included here. Read in any order and come away with a deeper understanding of these treasures.

Recommended for both the serious art historian and a reader who would like to take a deep dive into works with which they may already be familiar.

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

Pub date: 01 November 2022

#TerryFox #NetGalley

In this entry in the long running series, young readers learn about Terry Fox, a famous Canadian. This is a story that shows how a life can be redefined and much can be achieved, even after a difficult setback. Terry was not expecting the turn that his life took but he (literally) ran with it. This is an inspiring entry in the series.

The author does a good job of explaining what cancer is, albeit briefly. She does this without making the story too scary. Ms. Sanchez Vegara also acknowledges Terry’s death so be ready to discuss this. She goes on to note the impact that Terry has had as others now run for his cause.

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

Pub date: 01 November 2022

The titles below are from this week’s The Short List:

These are recent titles that are offered at a discount

Other e book bargains:

by Amalie Howard

Looking for some lighthearted escapism? Maybe you are wanting a book to easily sink into and you liked Bridgerton? If yes, definitely give this title a look.

Readers need to suspend their disbelief as they get to know a duke with a desire for money and a reputation for not being a people person, to put it mildly. Fate puts a young woman in his path. She, Genevieve, is down on her luck when he makes her an offer. What will happen from here? It is a romance so readers can be pretty sure of the answer. The fun is in watching the story unfold.

Many thanks to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 12 July 2022

From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Fabulous writing . . . such a delicious escape. Utterly delightful!”

“Howard’s lyrical writing enlivens her bright, empathetic characters and her sharp eye on their class and cultural disparities only enhances their romance. Readers will be riveted.”―Publishers Weekly―Eloisa James, New York Times bestselling author“Refreshing, steamy, and stocked with characters you don’t normally get to see in the genre—a must-read author.”―Jodi Picoult, #1 New York Times bestselling author

by Jeanne M. Dams

#ADeadlyWeb #NetGalley

Jeanne Dams writes perfect British cozy mysteries in books that I have been reading since the very first in the series. This is number twenty-five. There are the setting in a cathedral town, a likeable ex-pat, Dorothy, who is of a certain age; Dorothy’s husband, Alan, a retired highly placed police official; those around them and, of course, a mystery in each entry.

This time Alan’s unofficial great niece is visiting. However, all does not go according to plan and Lucy’s fiancee is murdered. Who was this man really? Why was he killed?

Readers read the novel knowing that the case will be solved and that order will be restored. This is exactly the appeal of a cozy title; the reader can relax and enjoy while the author is trusted to do what they do best as Ms. Dams does here.

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

Pub date: 01 November 2022

by Margaux Carpentier

This cloth book for the youngest children is one of several that is being published now. As is true for the others, this title is bright and engaging. Young ones will enjoy seeing the brightly colored jungle animals in this book that is made for little hands.

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

Pub date: 08 November 2022

Most days, I publish a post on e book bargains. First, do you like these posts? Second, if I have reviewed one of the listed books, would you want that info included? Thanks.