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!

Wait for: The Midnight Hour by Elly Griffiths (and an e book bargain on 12.26.21)

#TheMidnightHour #NetGalley

Elly Griffiths is an author who does not rest on her laurels. I first got to know this author through her Ruth Galloway novels; so far, she has written thirteen of these. Ruth is a bit shambolic, very smart and a forensic archaeologist. Fans eagerly follow her relationship with (married) Nelson and her friends, including a Druid named Cathbad. This may all sound a bit odd but I assure you, these books are among my most favorite.

Ms. G. has also written two books in a new series. These are The Stranger Diaries and The Postscript Murders. These feature a lesbian, Musilin detective. They are complex and enjoyable.

The Midnight Hour is part of another series. This is an historical series that has featured magician Max Mephisto and Detective Edgar Stephens. The first, The ZigZag Girl was published about five years ago.

In this entry in the series, PI Emma and her partner, Sam Collins have at least one problem…Emma is married to Edgar Stephens who is also called in. Who murdered the husband of a music hall star? How will Emma and Edgar work together.. or not? And, where will Max fit in? Read this one to find out. It will provide readers with a small escape from daily life.

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

Midnight in Everwood: Review of a title that is currently $1.99 as an e book

#MidnightinEverwood #NetGalley

Christmas Day is the perfect day for reviewing this novel. So many of us think about The Nutcracker around this time of year. Now, author M.A. Kuzniar has put a new twist on the tale.

Things I enjoyed about this book included the settings, both in Nottingham and the sumptuousness in the life of Marietta’s family. There were wonderful descriptions of clothing, food, homes and more. True, this abundance does not mean that the characters are happy. Both Marietta and her brother Frederick are ahead of their time and want lives that their parents cannot understand. For Marietta, that is the freedom to put off marriage and to dream about being a star ballerina. For Frederick, it would be to become an artist and to be able to be with the man for whom he cares. (These are not major spoilers as these are things that become known to readers early in the novel.)

When Dr. Drosselmeier moves next door, he is a man that many want to invite to their homes. He comes, however to Marietta’s family. What will happen because of this? What strange adventures will befall Marietta? Will these characters find happiness? Read this very Christmas time title to find out. I am glad that I did!

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.