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

Many have contributed to this title which features 500 destinations that are welcoming to queer travelers. Included are destinations in North America, Latin America and the Caribbean, Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia, and Australia, so pretty much anywhere one could want to go . As the introduction notes, “you deserve to go on the trip of your dreams; to experience radiant queer joy; to be celebrated.” The main contributor to this book wants this experience for all.

Readers would be wise to pay attention to the Travel Tips section. We still live in a world where caution may be needed and preparation and knowledge matter. After this are the many destinations.

Each location has a brief entry. There are also many photographs throughout this title. Overall entries are for a particular experience as, for example, Haircuts for Anyone, in Montreal. In the pages surrounding this entry are other Montreal destinations. All in all, there are 500 from around the world as noted above. Each includes a Best Time to Go and Best for (whom) note.

This book is worth a look when planning a trip. It offers suggestions of many places to explore.

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

Four stars

What will it be: The Second Ending (by Michelle Hoffman)

The Second Ending is a funny and fun read and one that I recommend for when readers are looking for a light and enjoyable novel. The music background definitely added to may enjoyment here. Readers will root for Prudence and Alexei as they turn the pages here.

Both of these pianists showed extraordinary potential. Each then made some decisions that let their more aspirational careers falter. Prudence, a former child prodigy, sold a jingle which did make her rich but…while Alexei is doing cheesy reality TV. Prudence is in her 40s while Alexei is in his twenties. They come together on the TV show. What will happen to them and their lives? Will they find their way back to the lives that they want? Read this very entertaining title to find out. It will be worth it.

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

Pub date: 30 May 2023

From the Publisher

Meet Prudence Childs. Music Prodigy, Perfect Target, Force of Nature.

Sarah Penner says, Quite unlike anything I’ve read.

J. Ryan Stradal says, Heartwarming, feel good debut of the year.

Let’s visit: The Heirloom Inn by Olivia Miles

#TheHeirloomInn #NetGalley.

Leah, Sadie and Emma are sisters who have become estranged from one another. However, all that may be about to change when the three arrive at the home of their deceased aunt. On the way to working out their relationship with each other, the sisters will also cope with their own life issues. These include aspects of their romantic lives and more. There are further complications when the inn itself is at risk.

These three spend their summer at The Heirloom Inn. Consider spending a part of your own summer with them as you read this women’s fiction title. It should appeal to fans of the genre.

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

Pub date: 23 May 2023

From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Olivia Miles is an expert at creating a sweet, romantic plot and setting endearing characters within it, which ultimately results in a delightful read.” —Romantic Times Book Reviews