Now out: The Strangers’ House

This title will be welcomed by academics and others who want to take a deep dive into the literature of Norther Ireland. The context within history and politics is explored in the introduction before moving into the other chapters. These explore works of both poetry and prose. Readers will discover new writers along with those of whom they have already heard. They will also leave the book understanding its title.

This is a book to be read by those who want to understand more about the complexities of Northern Ireland. Insights come from the writers.

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

From the Publisher

The Strangers' HouseThe Strangers' HouseThe Strangers' House

What were the: Fateful Words by Paige Shelton

Paige Shelton has penned many traditional mysteries. Her fans will be delighted with this new novel. I was sold from the beginning…Scotland, Books!

This adventure with Delaney was pretty delightful, even with the shenanigans. I enjoyed traveling around Edinburgh with her. There are mysterious business, missing persons, literary tours, and murder.

This is the eighth in a series. I want to go back and read any that I missed. You might too.

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

Pub date: 04 April 2023

Seasons of life and love: Spring, Summer, Autumn, Us

by Fiona Collins

Rachel has committed to Jonny, thinking that he is “the one.” She is ready to marry this author and be a stepmom. She also hopes to open her own gallery. Potential complications ensue however when Rachel meets Gabe.

In this book that covers a wide time span, Rachel is placed in situations where she must decide whether to stay with Jonny or go with Gabe, to whom she feels an attraction.

Spend time with Rachel and those around her as she tries to figure out what she wants from life (over and over). It is a situation that readers will relate to in this enjoyable read.

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

Pub date: 04 April 2023

Now out: Death and Croissants

I definitely found the title and cover of this lighthearted mystery to be rather appealing. What could be better than a good story accompanied by the classic French breakfast?

I was not familiar with the author who is a British comedian. That explains the tone of the story. Here is a rather hapless hotel owner who gets sucked into an adventure by an exotic guest of his establishment. It becomes a bit crazy with even hints of the Mafia. How will it all get resolved? Read this one to find out. It is a book that shows what can happen when one ventures (way) out of a comfort zone.

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

Here is a perfect: Symphony of Secrets

#SymphonyofSecrets #NetGalley

This is the author’s second novel, following on the well regarded Violin Conspiracy. I very much enjoy that these are music based stories. Think the world of composing is quiet? Well, not exactly when it may turn out that someone who claimed authorship of some works, may have had no right to do so.

What did Josephine Reed compose in the 1930s? What was her relationship with another composer named Delaney? Why is one of Delaney’s relative contacting protagonist Bern Hendricks? Who else will be involved as things become complicated? Will wrongs be righted? What is the role of race in the story and its events? Read this enjoyable, thoughtful sophomore work by the author to find out.

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

Pub date: 18 April 2023