Now out: The Mitford Affair by Marie Benedict

In my opinion, Marie Benedict is among the best of the current writers of historical fiction. Here, once again, the author has succeeded in writing an absorbing story that is based upon historical fact. Unlike in her earlier novels, this time she tells the story of six important characters (rather than one) who were sisters. They were so different from each other that it is hard to believe that they had the same parents.

The family included one son, Tom and many daughters. There was Nancy, the novelist. Diana was beautiful, married to one of (those) Guinnesses but she left

Bryan to be with the Fascist Oswald Mosley. Unity was somewhat of a fanatic who was deeply enamored of Hitler while Jessica was a Communist. There were also younger sisters Debo and Pamela.

Benedict tells her chapters from different characters points of view. She often has characters detailing their experiences in the same time frame.

There is a very rich history in this family. Readers will enjoy learning more about the Mitfords in this well written story.

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

From the Publisher

The new novel from beloved NYT bestselling author Marie Benedict
Praise from Fiona DavisPraise from Allison PatakiPraise from Jennifer Chiavernini
The Other Einstein
Carnegie’s Maid
The Only Woman in the Room
Lady Clementine
The Mystery of Mrs. Christie
Her Hidden Genius

Now out:

Pusheen the Cat’s Guide to Everything

by Claire Belton

Do you need a bit of cheering up? Maybe a reason to smile? Do you like cats…or not? Whoever you may be, you might find Ms. Belton’s Pusheen as cute, funny and charming as I do. Here is a generous collection featuring Pusheen and her friends. They definitely brightened up my day. I will reread this one whenever needed.

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

From the Publisher

PUSHEEN THE CAT’S GUIDE TO EVERYTHING

A terrific read for those who enjoy baking and mystery: The Golden Spoon by Jessa Maxwell

#TheGoldenSpoon #NetGalley

Perfect for curling up with on a winter’s evening, this book engaged me right from the start. Six bakers arrive at a Vermont estate to compete on a baking show that fans of the Great British Baking Show will recognize right away. However, what if unlike on the GBBS, all did not go well and the issues were not only with the bakes? What if, Instead, murder and mayhem occur during the competition? The bakers are a captive audience so there are also echoes of Agatha Christie, along with Mary Berry, in these pages.

The bakers all have their stories and get to tell them as each narrates sections of the book. They range from a former foster child to a retired nurse, from a self made millionaire to a math teacher, along with a young pie maker and a construction worker. There are other characters as well. These include baking show host and owner of Grafton Manor, Betsy Grafton, the new co-host, Archie, the conniving Melanie and others. How do these characters backstories impact their actions? Who will be murdered and why? Find out, even as you enjoy the baking challenges.

Simon & Schuster’s Editorial Director describes The Golden Spoon as “this wonderfully atmospheric debut” that is “one of the most satisfying puzzles I have read in ages.” I concur. This novel is written by an assured writer who tells an involving story. I highly recommend this one.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 07 March 2023

Think of him when you drink your milk: Louis Pasteur

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

#LouisPasteur #NetGalley

Here is the story of another little person with big dreams. Ever heard of the term pasteurization? We are all indebted to Louis Pasteur for this process that keeps our milk safe.

Who was the young Louis? How did he find his path in life? How did his family tragedies inspire his amazing medical discoveries? Kids can find out in this entry in the excellent series of biographies for young readers. As always, the illustrations are wonderful and enhance the text.

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

Pub date: 07 March 2023