Our columnist on three twisty new tales of murder.
— Read on www.nytimes.com/2024/06/17/books/review/new-psychological-thrillers.html

This is the second title to feature Luke Thanet and those around him including his sergeant Mike. Each title in this series is a classic British village mystery/police procedural. The recurring characters and getting to know Luke’s family as they grow up adds to the pleasure of the stories.

This time a rather self contained resident of Nettleton is murdered. She will not be the only victim.

The clues in the story are fair and the solution is satisfying. All in all, a good series for those who enjoy traditional mysteries. The books can be read in any order. There are fifteen of them so fans will be left with lots to read.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Open Road Integrated Media for this title. All opinions are my own.

This edition was published in 2017.

The Hungry Bones is the fifth title in this excellent series by Sara Johnson. I love the New Zealand setting, the knowledge of customs, the characters and the mysteries themselves. This time, though, in a twist Alexa considers traveling to Scotland. What will she find there if she goes? What will happen in her personal relationships? Turn the pages and hope that all will be revealed along with the solution to the murder mystery. That is about a number of skeletons found in a former gold rush town and a missing educator. Alexa’s forensic dentition specialty will come into play as the case is solved.

One interesting feature of the story is the way in which it moves between time periods. Readers get a sense of the history behind the events.

Note that this title can be read on its own. Still, readers may enjoy making their way through all five books.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 11 June 2024

LibraryThing catalogs yours books online, easily, quickly and for free.
— Read on www.librarything.com/list/45446/Best-Mysteries-With-a-Historical-Setting

What Taylor Swift has achieved in her career is pretty amazing. She has to be one of the most popular singers ever. This entry in the good series tells her story.

Readers learn that Taylor grew up in a family that loved music Once she discovered country music, Taylor knew what she wanted to do even if she felt isolated from her peers at times. She has gone on to sing in many genres for her fans. Her hard work and persistence make her a role model for those with dreams.

This book is delightfully illustrated. There is additional information at the back.

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

Four stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐

From the Publisher

On a Christmas Tree farm in Pennsylvania, lived a girl named Taylor. She believed in the power of songs to tell stories and change the world.	Some of the kids at school didn’t understand but Taylor managed to shake it off!	She took her first steps towards stardom by recording a demo of cover songs and sent it to record labels in Nashville, the home of country music.

She’s won several Grammys by writing heartfelt lyrics that have become loved by millions around the world.	Despite the obstacles in her way, Taylor has always stood up for what she believes in, and always believes in herself!	While her list of records and awards kept growing, being a kind person was still her main goal.

 #BookTribLitPicks #NetGalley

This title is free (!) and a real gift to readers. Included are excerpts from many books. Learn about and try works by Don Winslow, Tessa Bailey, Terry Hayes, James Comey, Grady Hendrix, James Clavell, Gill Paul, and many others in the fiction section. There is also a section of non-fiction and self-help titles. The collection is organized by genres so it is very easy to browse. For each, there is a copy of the book’s cover and a description including information about the author.

It is very easy to recommend this one. Get your copy now and make your reading list!

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

Pub date: 14 June 2024

New thrillers for June — a missing child in the south of France

https://www.thetimes.com/article/6f2ce595-8cb8-4515-b4f5-9a377fc65caa?shareToken=de6923f3fc4b24bdaee66816ede66657

Sandwich (Catherine Newman)

Sandwich #NetGalley

Any women who have felt that they were a part of the “Sandwich” generation will welcome sitting down on a summer’s day to read this story. Those who are not sandwiched will also enjoy the setting, characters and look at a life that are offered in this title.

As I read this one, I thought of the many kinds of sandwiches that there are for Rocky. It is not just between her children and older relatives. She is in the middle of the sandwich between her regular life and this one week away. Rocky is also sandwiched between her past and future.

Readers will enjoy getting to know Rocky and those around her. They will also enjoy some (virtual) beach time as they turn the pages of a story that can be funny, nostalgic and reflective..

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

Four stars ⭐⭐⭐⭐

From the Publisher

#TheComfortofGhosts #NetGalley

Like many readers, I first met Maisie Dobbs twenty years ago. That, in itself, seems remarkable to me. Winspear has kept the series fresh over many books. Readers have watched Maisie develop and grow into herself. Watching Maisie evolve has always been one of the best parts of the books. The mysteries and depictions of war’s impact on people have also been well done.

I will miss Maisie, her husband, her daughter, Billy, Lady Compton and so many others. I hate to see the series end. However, all credit to Winspear for ending in such a satisfying way.

I am not giving much detail on the book. I want to leave that for the reader as they savor their final visit with Maisie. It has been quite a run!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 04 June 2024

The Madam Secretary of the title refers to Frances Perkins. She was the first female cabinet member and Secretary of Labor during FDR’s tenure in the White House. (Anyone who collects Social Security is in her debt.) While clearly this was the pinnacle of Frances’s career, she did much before attaining this post and she also witnessed much history.

Frances saw what happened at the Triangle Shirtwaist Company and was deeply impacted. She worked for Al Smith, a veteran New York politician. She was involved in many progressive issues after receiving her education at Mt. Holyoke College and Penn.

Frances interacted with many well know figures of the day, one of whom was Sinclair Lewis. Readers spend time with FDR and Eleanor as well as France’s close friend, nee Mary Harriman. The era in which she lives feels very real.

In addition to her professional life, Frances had a complicated personal life. No spoilers so learn about her husband when reading.

This is historical fiction at its best. I highly recommend this immersive read.