This novel has received a good deal of attention, including being selected for Reese Witherspoon’s book club.  It is the story of Laurie and Jack, their friends and families.  It is a story of a romance that may or may not go to a happy ending.  It is definitely one in which the course of true love “never did  run smooth.”  If you enjoy light, romantic fiction you might want to join the many who have read this title.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the e-galley.  The opinions are my own.#1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
A Reese Witherspoon x Hello Sunshine Book Club Pick “Get ready to be swept up in a whirlwind romance. It absolutely charmed me.” —Reese Witherspoon

“Josie Silver writes with a warmth so palpable her characters sneak their way into your heart and stay for a long time.”—Jill Santopolo, New York Times-bestselling author of The Light We Lost #OneDayInDecember #NetGalley

Are you a person who finds getting on an airplane to be an adventure or are you a nervous flyer? Either personality type may well be riveted by this thriller in which much of the action centers on a long haul flight from London to Sydney (20 hours in the air!). In some ways, the story is a take on a locked room mystery in that much of the action is confined to the plane and the stories of its passengers and crew. However, there is also backstory so some time is spent on the ground and with other characters.

The book’s protagonist, Mina, is on the flight when…a note is given to her. What does it say? How will it influence what she does? In order for there not to be spoilers, it is not possible to say more except that this is a story that may well put readers on the edges of their seats.

My only quibble with this story is that I did not absolutely love some of the characters. I do, though, admire Ms. Mackinstosh’s imagination and storytelling ability. Readers, remember that this is fiction!

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

https://nyti.ms/2ST6xSa

Auntie Poldi and the Lost Madonna

A Novel

by Mario Giordano

Auntie Poldi and the Lost Madonna is the fourth entry in what I find to be a rather quirky series. There is a lot happening in this one with exorcism, a dead nun and an extraordinarily attractive priest. Then, of course, there is Poldi, actually not Italian but Bavarian. Readers of the series know that she is very busy in Sicily though.

Fans of Poldi will welcome this book with its humor and action. It is not for everyone though in my opinion. Those wanting a very traditional mystery may be disappointed.

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

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Exceptional…While the plot, which involves the theft of a statue of a Black Madonna, is satisfyingly packed with danger and surprises, it’s the digressions on Sicilian history, the Italian mentality, and Poldi’s pronouncements on life and sex that provide readers with some laugh-out-loud moments as well as food for thought. Those who appreciate the intelligent silliness of S.J. Perelman will want to see more of the sexy, quick-witted Poldi, who won’t take guff from any man, including the pope.”—Publishers Weekly, starred review

“Poldi’s devil-may-care attitude and Nephew’s witty, self-deprecating narration are as entertaining as ever, but this series’ fourth entry is anchored by Poldi’s evolution as she faces both her future and her conflicted past.”—​Booklist

by Clara McKenna

#MurderatBlackwaterBend #NetGalley

I wanted to read this title from the moment I saw the cover. Readers learn that pictured are an American woman and an aristocratic Englishman.

This historical mystery features an obnoxious Lord who is murdered. Who did it? Why? How will it impact our engaged couple?

This book provided an entertaining read. It can be read as a standalone but readers may find that they need to cat cup a bit so they might want to begin with the first in the series.

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

by Samantha Newman

This title retells the story of Cinderella in a most funny and entertaining manner. In the beginning of the book, the story follows somewhat traditional lines but all of this changes when Cinderella meets her hard of hearing fairy godmother. Fairy godmother does what she thinks that she is being asked but…not exactly!

This book has engaging illustrations and main characters who become empowered. It is a delightful read.

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

A sequel will be published this year!

Dear Mrs. Bird is an engaging and warm first novel. Readers who enjoyed The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Society are almost certain to rate this book highly. Mrs. Bird is an out of touch editor at a woman’s magazine during WW II who is responsible for the agony column. Sadly, she deems most letters “unsuitable” for answering. Enter Emmy; young, naive, and trying to cope with bombs and disasters in London. She begins to answer letters as Mrs. Bird and you need to read the book to learn what happens. This novel at first seemed like it would be light but it has substance. Themes of love, friendship and how to relate to others all have their place. I highly recommend Dear Mrs. Bird! I would like to write her a fan letter. Thanks for this read NetGalley.

Little Men is free.

by Linda Davick

So many children dream of being in a club with their friends, making titles that feature kids who are part of one very popular. This title is sure to be enjoyed by its’ intended readers.

This beginning chapter book is filled with humor and sly illustrations. It starts with tongue in cheek descriptions of the members of the Gumball Club. The members mostly all live in Periwinkle Towers; they hope to build a tunnel to connect their building with the home of the member who does not live there. From the opening of the story, readers get a sense of these friends and their world.

In this entry in the series kids will eagerly wait to find out if buried treasure will be discovered. They will also watch as the friends have some issues. Will they work things out?

This is a quirky, cute title. Young readers may well enjoy this one.

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