Readers won’t forget: The Door-to-Door Bookstore (Carsten Henn)

#TheDoortoDoorBookstore #NetGalley

Recently I have read a number of books about books, bookstores and readers. This may become one of my favorite sub genres. This novel, The Door-to-Door Bookstore, is a a love song to those who care about books, reading and friendship.

Carl, who is in his early seventies, has worked in a bookshop for many years. In addition to his daily job, Carl delivers beautifully wrapped books to a number of customers. He knows what kind of book each of these customers craves. Carl also thinks of each as a fictional character and book lovers will very much enjoy this aspect of the novel. For example, one is Mr. Darcy.

Carl has led a somewhat solitary life. Watch what happens when a precocious nine year old, inserts herself in his life.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own. This book really felt special to me and I highly recommend it.

Pub date: 04 July 2023

Let’s explore: Wild Houston

by Suzanne Simpson; John Williams

#WildHouston #NetGalley

I did not know much about Houston before reading this title. I didn’t even know that it was a “Bayou City.” Now I have learned much more and this book was an enjoyable way to do just that.

The book’s authors make an important point early on when they observe that nature can also be found in cities. That is the case of Houston and its environs as presented in these pages.

Readers will enjoy exploring the three sections of this book. The first is about landscape, people and organisms. Next are 101 spotlighted species; would readers have guessed that there were so many around the area? The third part (and my favorite) features twenty-five field trips. If I ever get to Houston I will know where to go and what to look for.

Those who live in Texas or plan to visit, give this one a look. It is a terrific resource. Those who may never get to Houston, there are many photos to inspire you

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

Pub date: 26 September 2023

A favorite author on: Wandering Through Life (Donna Leon)

#WanderingthroughLife #NetGalley

Readers of my blog know that I am a great fan of Leon’s Brunetti series of Venice-set mysteries. Both the books and the TV series have been so enjoyable. (The TV show episodes got me through some of the early days of Covid. I found Brunetti having dinner looking out at the canals so grounding in that time.) I love the character that she has developed in him; Brunetti sees so much corruption yet remains a good man, a good husband, a good father and a good friend. I have found the books to be ones that I am always eager to read.

That said, Wandering Through LIfe is not chefly about Brunetti, but rather about Brunetti’s creator. In these pages, Leon shares stories about her own life. I enjoyed getting to know her and her wandering ex-pat life, though to be fair, she spent many years in Italy. Leon has lived in a many places including the U.S. (with time on a farm), Iran, and, some other countries as well. In her 9th decade, she now lives in Switzerland.

This book has chapters of varying lengths. They cover many facets of Leon’s life. Keep an eye out for the story of Leon’s doctoral dissertation. It is just one of many interesting stories that are contained within these pages. This is a lovely and lively memoir and one that it is easy to recommend.

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

Pub date: 19 September 2023

Now out: Dead on Target

R.W. Green has carried this series forward in a way that I think Ms. Beaton would have approved. He presents Agatha in a way that feels very close to how readers got to know her in the original series. This title is the thirty something in the long running books to feature Ms. Raisin.

This time Agatha can be as annoying as ever as she challenges what her nemesis police foil believes to be an accidental death. What led to a death at the village fete? Find out in this crafty and fun read.

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

Calling all doodlers: Mini Kawaii Kitties (Olive Yong)

#MiniKawaiiKitties #NetGalley

I find Kawaii drawing to be appealing and sweet in general and that is certainly the case here. The book opens with sections on what kawaii is, how to use the book, tools and more. Next come the adorable kittens. Artists can learn to draw them at playtime, while being curious, in food related scenarios, and more. The directions are clear and will help doodlers to make satisfying illustrations. Truly delightful.

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

Pub date: 17 October 2023