Jacqueline Winspear Considers the Art of Historical Fiction — CrimeReads

Jacqueline Winspear is the bestselling author of the Maisie Dobbs series, two standalones, and most recently, The White Lady, in which an ex-spy is drawn back into the espionage game just after the end of the Second World War. She was kind enough to catch up with me over email to discuss historical fiction, enduring heroines,…

Jacqueline Winspear Considers the Art of Historical Fiction — CrimeReads

Being enough: Thinking of You (but not like in a weird creepy way)

A Comic Collection

by Beth Evans

#ThinkingofYoubutnotlikeinaweirdcreepyway #NetGalley

This book offers readers a virtual hug. The author wants to (and does) provide reassurance to the reader that they are enough, even as they struggle with day to day stresses. These are not traditional comics but more of a series of affirmations that are illustrated. They will appeal to the author’s target audience.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Andrew McMeels\ Publishing. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 02 May 2023

For the one who is: The World’s Best Dad by Sarah K. Benning

#TheWorldsBestDad #NetGalley

I like the idea of this book. It offers kids a chance to make something special for their dad(s). The prompts will help to get them going and at the end there will be a keepsake that I think fathers will treasure.

For example, on the first page, a child can fill in the blanks for their favorite thing about their dad and why they are giving him this book. They can then draw a picture of their dad and them. There are quizzes, fill in the blanks and lots of space to write.

I recommend that you get this one in time for father’s day! I think that dads will be touched.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Quarto Publishing Group for this title.

Pub date: 02 May 2023

Now out: Romantic Comedy

Curtis Sittenfeld is a nimble author whose novels are each unique. I have read her takes on both Laura Bush and Hilary Rodham Clinton; while each had a similar subject in a president’s spouse, the books were definitely not the same kind of story twice. I also read Eligible which was a Jane Austen update. There is always a voice of its own in her works dating back to Prep.

This title is a lighter one in the Sittenfeld oeuvre. Many will think that there is some resemblance to SNL here. There are writers, a comedy sketch show with celebrity guests and other aspects that reference late night television. However, there are also the characters and relationships and they are Sittenfeld’s own. These folks include Sally who has not been lucky in love and has been having “hook ups” instead of commitments. She watches as a co-writer, Danny, who is described as not too well put together appearance wise, become involved with someone “out of his league.” Why do things turn out this way for men more than women?? What happens when guest host Noah comes on the show and what will happen between him and Sally over time? Read this one to find out.

Many have adored this book. I liked it. I could not quite enter its world and pushed a bit to finish it. That said, I think this will be a very popular read this spring and summer.

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

12 New Novels You Should Read This Month — CrimeReads

The CrimeReads editors make their selections for the month’s best new novels in crime, mystery, and thrillers. Eli Cranor, Ozark Dogs (Soho) Eli Cranor is back in 2023 with the follow-up to his widely acclaimed debut, Don’t Know Tough. The new novel, which traces a volatile history of violence between two families, is a powerful portrait of…

12 New Novels You Should Read This Month — CrimeReads

Now out: The Journey of the Little Prince

This title introduces young children to the Little Prince and some of his adventures. It also encourages discussion. As an example, first the Prince visits the king. On the next page, children are asked about making decisions, being a boss and how to be a good leader. This continues as the prince meets a businessman and geographer, among others.

The illustrations are from the original work and are lovely. Some may find this book a bit heavy handed in its message but I liked it. It reflects how kids see the world.

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

Ready to get out: Pretty Little London: Trips

Weekend Escapes From the City

by Sara Santini; Andrea Di Filippo

#PrettyLittleLondonTrips #NetGalley

I am an Anglophile for sure. So, I was very happy to receive an e arc for this title. It is just packed with good ideas for trips that are not too far away from the well-known city.

This book is divided into three sections, City & Town, Coast, and Countryside. I liked the maps with landmarks that begin each of these. In addition, there are many enticing photographs throughout. Cities and Towns that are featured include York, Bristol, Bath, and Edinburgh, along with many more. Coasts include Margate, Whitstable and a number of others, while find the Countryside in Cliveden House, Beaverbrook Country Estate, Box Hill and again, lots more.

I tested the book by looking up some of the places where I have spent time. I think that the authors did a nice job in describing these places. This gives me trust about the places that I have not visited (but would like to) that are featured here. That having been said, each entry is short so readers may want to explore their key locales with additional resources.

There are also helpful sections called UK Travel Tips, and Photo Tips included here. They are worth a look.

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

Note: I enjoyed this couple’s earlier book, Pretty Little London.

Pub date: 09 May 2023