Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

A Novel

by Rachel Givney

This novel requires substantial suspension of disbelief. If you are not able to accept this, it may take you longer to become immersed in this title or it may not be for you.

In the opening of the story, Jane Austen (yes, that Jane) is twenty-eight years old. She is living in Bath with her family and she is a bit of a free spirit. Jane, though, is also acutely aware that she is not married and that marriage is expected of her. She meets someone who invites her to the Pump Room which is a location for proposals; however, the proposal never takes place. What is Jane to do? Well, in this author’s imagination, Jane travels to the future.

In (our) the present, Jane finds herself on a film set for a movie of Northanger Abbey. Of course, she does not at first understand that she is in a new time zone/period. She meets an actress, Sofia, and that actress’s brother, Fred, for whom she feels an attraction.

What will happen to each of these characters? Will readers enjoy being in 1820s England and the present day country? Will the characters find (or reawaken) a true love? Will Jane stay in (her) future or travel back in time to remain one of the most beloved of English authors. Read the book to find out.

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

Really good choices here. I’ve read and reviewed the Huber titles and The Secret, Book and Scone Society.

I have reviewed this one and recommend it.

by Marty Wingate

To begin with, a disclaimer: I have loved the city of Bath (England) ever since spending time there as an exchange student. So, I was very excited to have the opportunity to read this mystery set in one of my favorite places. The good news is that I did enjoy the setting but I also enjoyed this cozy mystery for other reasons.

The protagonist of this two book series is likeable as is her romantic interest. The book is one that loves the mystery genre as tribute is paid to Dorothy Sayers and especially her novel Murder Must Advertise. That Sayers title and this novel both have a murder victim who dies falling down a spiral staircase. There are suspects and a case to solve by our amateur sleuth.

This title is recommended to those who enjoy a cozy mystery. It was an easy read which I mean in a good way; this was a book for those who would like to relax for a bit.

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

#MurderIsaMust #NetGalley

Understanding Coronavirus

by Mary Lindeen

The folks at Sesame Street know a lot about kids and it shows. This book will be welcomed by families that are trying to figure out the best ways to talk to their young children about the virus. It is simple, matter of fact, includes lots of basic information, offers suggestions of activities and ways to keep healthy and more. All this, with photos of real adults and kids and those lovable Sesame Street characters. Highly recommended for its intended audience.

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

Pub date: January 1, 2021

by Jane Austen

Pride and Prejudice is one of my favorite Austen titles. Reading it in this gorgeous edition made for an even more enjoyable experience. This novel can be read, reread and treasured. I always find something new with each reread. In fact, I am just finishing a wonderful class on the novel.

The story itself is well known but perhaps wasted on those kids who are asked to read it in school before they are really ready. The story of the Bennet family and those around them is fresh, funny and, at times, serious. We all have our pride and our prejudices; while reading about those in the novel, we can think, too, about how we may judge others wrongly. Readers can also contemplate the roles of women and the social meaning of marriage at the time. But…along with deeper themes there is wit, plot, romance, a bit of travel and more.

This particular edition is special because of its beauty, beginning with the gorgeous cover. It is a keeper and one that would make a perfect gift for the reader or someone about whom they care.

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

Pub date: March 2, 2021

by Susanna Leonard Hill

Pub Date 05 Jan 2021

This book is so engagingly illustrated! It is written in the form of a letter from a child to a grandmother. It shows the beauty, resilience, depth and breadth of that special relationship. The grandmother in this book is fun to play with, a listener, an encourager and so much more. She is simply a most important part of a child’s life.

This book ideally would be read with a grandmother whether in person or on Zoom. It is very sweet.

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