Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too!

The best thrillers of 2025 so far — our critics’ top books

https://www.thetimes.com/article/1a102492-e55b-4c47-ae5d-659732fc01de?shareToken=5470dac9d5d69e40911bbfd11a768a67

www.nytimes.com/interactive/2025/02/18/books/review/20th-century-classics.html

Getting the Most from Your New Cuddle Unit

by Queen Olivia III

#TheCatOperatorsManual #NetGalley

This title offers a tongue in cheek perspective (purrspective) on the relationship between Cuddle Unit 5 (a cat) and humans. The text is quirky but fun and the illustrations help to make the points.

There are what feel like the daily experiences (expurriences) of the cat-human relationship described here. For example, see the section on bed making. Many cat folks will related to how their Cuddle Unit feels about feeding, being disturbed and more.

This book will very much enjoyed by a cat lover.

Many thanks to Chronicle Books for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 18 March 2025

For fans of The Crown. This novel, set in post WWII England, is a story about the women who made Princess Elizabeth’s wedding gown.  Part of the story takes place in 1940s Britain while there is also a modern thread (no pun intended).  I think that this will be an absorbing and fun read. Start the year right with this one.  (Full review to follow)

“Robson deftly weaves issues of class, trauma, romance, and female friendship with satisfying details of Ann and Miriam’s craft. This unique take on the royal wedding will be an easy sell to fans of Netflix’s The Crown and a sure bet for readers of women-centered historical fiction.” (Booklist (starred review))

“Robson vividly brings to life these three women’s struggles. Historical details about fabric, embroidery, and the royal family are well incorporated into their stories, with light romance rounding out this charming work of historical fiction.”   (Library Journal)

“Robson’s novel shifts deftly between… Toronto to London in 2016… giving meticulous attention to the historical detail of post–World War II London. A fascinating glimpse into the world of design, the healing power of art, and the importance of women’s friendships.”
(Kirkus Reviews)

Currently an e book bargain

I read and enjoyed The Chilbury Ladies’ Choir so was thrilled to be offered this e-galley from NetGalley and the publisher.

This novel takes place during WWII. I duly note how many recent historical novels have taken place during this era. Nonetheless, I found this to be one that was a good read.

The novel’s protagonist, Mrs. Braithwaite, (a woman of a certain age), has tried to live her life very much in accord with convention and awareness of social status. She is dethroned from her position as head of the WI early in the book. Over the subsequent course of the novel Mrs. B changes from an unlikable character to a woman with more nuance.

Mrs. B’s emotional and real journeys put her in contact with the unassuming Mr. Norris. Together they move away from their comfort zones, begin thinking more of others and have adventures. Yes, belief must be suspended but one roots for them nonetheless.

There are several story lines that show Mrs. B’s emotional growth. One has to do with a young teacher injured in a bombing raid while another takes place during the blackout in a supposedly safe haven that becomes flooded. The reader also comes to understand Mrs. B’s biography and how it led her to be the person that she was.

There are spies and plots along with counter plots and a depiction of war-torn London. There are the beginnings of a gentle love between the protagonists and other hearts that have been broken.

Mrs. Braithwaite reminds me a bit of Mrs. Bird, the eponymous character in one of 2018’s debut novels. However, unlike Mrs. Bird, Mrs. Braithwaite has the capacity to change.

I enjoyed this novel. Again, thanks to NetGalley and publisher.

A few other WWII books that I have blogged on:

This Bird Soars Dear Mrs. Bird

A (de)light to read: Light Over London

the prisoner in the castle

#PatrickMahomes #NetGalley

Here is another excellent entry in the author’s series that explores the lives of now famous people. She looks at how they came to be that well known person.

In the case of Mahomes, he tried several sports before becoming a Super Bowl winning quarterback. But it was not only sports, but also sportsmanship and dealing with setbacks, that made Mahomes the special athlete that he is. He is also a person who has given back through his foundation.

Kids will enjoy learning more about the football player in this delightfully illustrated entry. It would make a nice gift for a young sports fan.

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

Pub date: 23 January 2025

New Books to Make Your Heart Race

#TheMinotaurSamplerVolume14 #NetGalley

Regular readers of my blog know that I love the Minotaur samplers. They always offer an advance peek at forthcoming mysteries that fans of the genre will want to read.

This time, learn about books by Erin Dunn; Gillian French; Sandra Jackson-Opoku; Jo Nichols; and Archer Sullivan. There are descriptions of the books along with generous excerpts, info on the authors and, BEST OF ALL, the sampler is free.

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

Pub date: 04 March 2025

The publisher notes that this book is from an esteemed National Geographic explorer and forest ecologist making her the perfect companion for these pages. Nadkarni has loved trees since childhood and, by now, has climbed trees on four continents.

Readers will enjoy dipping into this author’s essays which she says are about “celebrating everyday trees and their relationships with everyday people who encounter them.” These encounters can include even simple things like using chopsticks.

The book is organized by seasons. Entries are short, engaging and easy to read. By the end, readers will walk away with a deep appreciation for nature’s gifts and will know that it is important to preserve our natural resources.

Many thanks to NetGalley and National Geographic for this title. All opinions are my own.

Five stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

From the Publisher

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My First Words UK, Book 1

by Polly Owen

#CarsVansAndDiggers #NetGalley

I have one young buddy who would absolutely adore this book. I think that his parents would find that he kept it close by all day (and night).

This is a book to delight kids who love everything related to transport. It is filled with photos and some facts. There are sections on small vehicles; cars and vans; lorries and tankers; loaders and dozers; tippers and dumpers;diggers and excavators; cranes; roads and paths; on the farm; emergency vehicles; holidays and fun; public transport; and, finally other ways to travel. To further entertain, there are questions to answer and sections on counting and colors.

I highly recommend this one for its intended audience. Those kids will be thrilled.

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

Pub date:03 March 2025

by Lindsey Kelk-an e book bargain

#LoveStory #NetGalley

Here is such a fun and feel good story and one that confirms what author Lindsey Kelk believes-that we love happy stories during difficult times. Her protagonist and, I think the author as well, see a role for romances as fiction that is just as worthy as any other reads.

Este Cox has written a book that takes off and becomes a huge bestseller. But…there is no Este, she is really teacher Sophie. Sophie is from a literary family and does not want to acknowledge her authorship of a sexy, romantic read to them. Lots of shenanigans ensue from this decision.

Playing against Este is Joe. As this is an enemies to lovers tale, readers watch as these two spar and come together. Watching them and the other characters in this story made for a delightful read.

I could pretty much say that, moving forward, I will read anything that Ms. Kelk writes. She knows how to help readers escape and enjoy her world for a few hours. Kelk gives readers a nice mix of plot, character, humor and heart.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper 360 for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 17 September 2024