Here is a mystery for those who like cozies. There is a murder in beautiful Chianti. The victim had many enemies but who disliked him enough to kill him right there on the golf course? It is up to Dan, along with Oscar, to figure out who took Rex’s life.
This book is a quick, enjoyable read. It will be liked by those who read IItalian set stories by authors like Donna Leon and Camilla Trinchieri. I will look for the first in the series.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pam Jenoff has been writing historical fiction about WWII for some time now. Those who have read her earlier novels will undoubtedly want to give this one a look.
The novel’s protagonist, Hannah Martell, has not had an easy time of it. She had been living in 1942 Berlin at a moment when the Nazis were a real and threatening presence; they, in fact, murdered someone close to Hannah.
Hannah recognizes that she must leave Berlin but getting away from the evils in the world is not easy. Her ship is turned away by the Cubans and the Americans are no help either. Hannah ends up back in Europe where she takes up her life in Brussels.
From this point, the book is about Hannah, her cousin and a woman who runs a resistance effort. To the strife of the period and its espionage, the author also adds a strand of romance when Hannah is attracted to the brother of one of the characters. How will each of these people fare, what daring act will they try to pull of, and how will their lives intersect and change? Keep turning the pages to find out.
This is a decent novel about its difficult time period. That said,there is not anything that makes this title stand out from the many other books set in the same time period. Still, those who cannot get enough of WWII fiction may want to add this title to their reading lists.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for this title. All opinions are my own.
This is such a charming book with its adorable illustrations and rhyme. Young children will meet many animals on these pages and will enjoy getting to know them and their likes. A great way to learn about critters. Truly a b00k that toddlers will enjoy.
Many thanks to NorthSouth Books and NetGalley for this book. All opinions are my own.
The Science and Art of Overcoming Insomnia Without Medications
by Jade Wu
What are your reasons for having trouble sleeping? Covid? The state of the world? Job issues? Family dynamics? The reasons feel close to infinite but, whatever the cause, sleep and its lack can preoccupy us.
Here is a book that offers help and explanation for sleep problems and making nights better. It offers potential solutions, actions and approaches to its readers. The author is a behavioral medicine sleep specialist so is an experienced guide. As a behaviorist, she is not advocating medication but rather other ways to fall (and stay) asleep.
I especially liked the chapter on sleep issues at particular stages of life. For example, when someone is pregnant or getting older. I also found it interesting to read thecase vignettes.
Those who are looking to understand sleep and to have better nights, give this book a look. It is so helpful.
Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for this title. All opinions are my own.
Playing Dead is a most enjoyable traditional mystery. An added bonus of this read are the insights that readers are given into dog training. The dogs of the novel are quite talented.
Molly Madison has moved, along with her two dogs, to a new area. Readers will find out what led to this change for her. It was dramatic. Note too that Molly has been in law enforcement so, while she may not be the officer on the case, she has much to offer in the investigation of a murder.
The victim was known to many in the agility competition (for dogs) world. She managed to alienate just about everybody. Therefore it is no great surprise when she is murdered. Readers will observe that there are many motives and suspects but will they be able to solve the crime before Molly?
This title is the second in a series. I did not read the first one but that in no way diminished my enjoyment of this book. I will likely go back to read the first story.
Playing Dead was a fun and quick read. I recommend it to those who like their mysteries with good plots and not much gore. In addition, dog lovers will find much to enjoy here.
Many thanks to Berkley Publishing Group and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my one.
Imagine 500 good recipes all in one book. What a great resource! The authors base this book on “plant forward eating” and care about healthy food; this does not in any way mean that the food will not be delicious. This was clear from the book’s first photo of Olive Oil Brownies.
Here are recipes for everything from quick breads to desserts, from appetizers to pizzas and so much more. In addition there is a lot of information about healthy eating.
I would enjoy a day where I begin with Apple Dutch Baby for breakfast. Perhaps I would follow this later in the day with Mock Risotto with Zucchini or Chicken Tandoori Skewers. For dessert, I might have those aforementioned brownies.
All in all, this book appears to be a great resource and just right for those who have resolved to eat more healthfully in 2023.
Many thanks to NetGalley and The Experiment for this title. All opinions are my own.
From the Publisher
Greek-Inspired Baked Chickpeas with Tomatoes & Feta
Ingredients
Two 15-ounce (425 g) cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed
One 14.5-ounce (411 g) can diced tomatoes
4 ounces (113 g) crumbled feta
¼ cup (60 ml) extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon dried oregano
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
1 lemon, quartered, optional
Nutritional Information
Per Serving: Calories 409; Protein 12 g; Carbs 40 g; Dietary Fiber 9 g; Added Sugars 9 g; Total Fat 23 g; Sat Fat 6 g; Omega-3s 220 mg; Sodium 655 mg; Potassium 346 mg
Makes 4 servings
This delicious recipe is very easy to prepare. Simply combine all of the ingredients, bake for 45 minutes, and dinner is ready. This dish can be enjoyed on its own or paired with roast chicken, grilled shrimp, or grilled lamb chops. Having a piece of hearty whole grain bread at the ready for sopping up the sauce is a wonderful way to enjoy every morsel.
Instructions
Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
Combine the chickpeas, tomatoes, feta, oil, honey, oregano, and red pepper flakes in an 8-inch (20 cm) square baking dish. Bake for 45 minutes, until much of the liquid has evaporated and some pieces of feta have started to brown.
Serve with lemon wedges on the side for an optional burst of bright acidity to balance the flavors.
Principles & Practices of Cooking à la Heart
Focus on Flavor Use less salt and choose lower-sodium ingredients. Use more spice blends that don’t rely on added salt for flavor.
Prioritize Plants Use more whole grain flours in your baking, and intact whole grains to your meals. Use more fruit and vegetables in all their glorious forms.
Pick Powerful Proteins Choose healthy sources of protein from plants and animals. Eat more seafood! Snack on nuts and other nourishing nibbles.
Embrace Enjoyment Enjoy desserts made more thoughtfully with better-for-you ingredients. They still taste incredible!
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 