The Oxford Murders by Peter Tickler

This mystery/suspense title is published by Joffee Books, a press that publishes many titles in this genre. Their books are generally very reasonably priced. I chose this one because I enjoy stories set in Oxford. It is the fourth in a series that feature both the city of Oxford in lovely detail and Doug Mullen, who solves the cases.

Really bad things happened to Julie after she went out on a date…and she is not the only victim in this story. Something unimaginable happens though when Doug, the private detective noted above, is accused in the case. What happened? Who is responsible?

It helped to know that this is a series so I hoped Doug would be ok. Read this one to find out.

I think that I might have enjoyed this title a bit more if I had read the other entries. Still, an interestng mystery with an interesting character with backstory in Doug, and, of course Oxford.

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

Pub date: 02 May 2023

What happens: After Paris (by Nicole Kennedy)

#AfterParis #NetGalley

In this novel, readers get to know Alice, Nina and Jules. The three met twenty or so years ago in Paris (at Le Crillon). Ever since, they have met up once a year. This time, forty is looming large as the friends are now thirty-nine. Also, this time, all does not go well and the women become estranged. Why? Will they find their way back to each other? Read this story to find out. Along the way, readers will get to know the characters and their lives well. It doesn’t hurt that Paris is part of the story aw well.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus for this title. All opinions are my own.

This title was published in 2022.

Now out: Notes to Share

Four stars ****

Rebel Girls had a nice idea with this title. Included inside are inspirational notes, pick me-up notes, messages that can be personalized, fun facts, and jokes. All can be torn out and can easily take up a home in a lunch bag, backpack or other place where kids keep things. They offer an easy way to cheer up a child’s day. Ideal for girls around 9-11, in my opinion.

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

From the Publisher

Tear-out messages: If there's a book you want to read that's not been written, you can write it"
Tear-Out Messages such as "It's ok not to know every answer" or facts about inspiring women
A young girl smiling and holding a rebel girls book ready for the day ahead

Now out: Mindfulness in Knitting

Three stars ***

This title is part of a series that explores the many ways in which mindfulness can become a part of one’s life. I previously reviewed a title on gardening. This book is about the ways in which knitting can offer both craft and a quiet time for focus and reflection.

The reader’s guide is an experienced knitter. At the very beginning of the book she notes that knitting offers an “informal” meditation space while connecting its practitioners to an ancient craft. Matthews observes that the repetition inherent in knitting stitches calms and soothes. This makes it a good partner for mindfulness practice.

It is clear that knitting has been important to Matthews and she wants to share her love of this art with the reader. She offers her personal insights and also discusses how knitting may be a good activity for her audience. Its connection with mindfulness can begin with paying attention to one’s stitches and moves on from there.

Knitters may well enjoy this meditation and non-knitters may want to consider picking up a pair of needles. Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title. All opinions are my own.