What led to: Death by the Sea by Vera Morris

#DeathbytheSea #NetGalley

This title is the sixth in a series. I have not read the others but think that I will so that I get more of the characters’ backstories. That said, this can be read as a standalone.

It is clear from reading this title that the Anglian Detective Team has worked together over time. Their group consists of an ex police officer (Frank) and an ex teacher (Laurel), along with two others.

One thread of the plot centers on a case of a judge who many have been wronged or who may have unsavory connections. When he fails to show up for a meeting with the team, the course of the novel is set. A visit is made to the judge’s home where an unsavory discovery is made.

The team is also working on a case that involves missing plants. Are the two investigations separate or will they come together?

This police procedural is set in the 1970s. It offers a good read with interesting characters and a terrific setting.

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

Pub date: 27 October 2022

256 pages

It can be treacherous: Danger on the Atlantic

by Erica Ruth Neubauer

#DangerontheAtlantic #NetGalley

I first met series protagonist Jane in the author’s first book, Murder at Mena House. This was such an enjoyable historical mystery. Following this, there have been two other published books, with the newest one coming out soon. It is such fun to travel the world with Jane and her associate with the funny name of Redvers Dibble. Also, these books have wonderful covers. They draw me in.

This time the two are on the Olympic, a vessel that has a connection to the Titanic. There is so much going on in this book; a ship with its passengers is able to carry many plots. There is a wealthy bride, Vanessa, whose marriage is not going well. There is a codebook to (hopefully) be found, a German spy and more. It is entertaining to read how the events play out.

Lovers of historical cozies, should give this title and series a look. Recommended.

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

They say that you can’t judge a book by its cover but I have to say that, as soon as I saw this one, the visual appeal made me want to read Murder at the Mena House.  This is an historical mystery set in Egypt in 1926.  The author does a wonderful job with the setting, both in terms of the indolent, luxury hotel and the sites, including the pyramids, museums, camel races and more.  There are a variety of colorful characters and some interesting backstory for the majority of them.

I think that this is the author’s first published book.  I enjoyed this read although the mystery itself was the least engaging part for me.  I will read further adventures of Jane as they are published.  She was a good guide to Egypt and those around her.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

Others in the series:

Now out:

The Ultimate Riddle Game for Kids

A Mind-Bending Book to Test Your Logic

Following an introduction are chapters entitled Tricky Quick Hitters, Math Monsters and Sneaky Stories and, of course, one called Answers. Although this is called a game, solvers can work on the challenges in a solitaire fashion should they prefer.

Try not to get frustrated. Lateral thinking, an ability to think “outside the box” will be helpful in solving these puzzles.

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

Learn about: New Zealand

by Philippa Werry

#NewZealand #NetGalley

Visiting New Zealand was such a highlight in my travels. Having loved the country, I was eager to see this book, even knowing that it was written for children. Included is information on the country’s history and geography, along with sections on traditions and New Zealand today. The end of the book includes suggestions for further reading and an extensive glossary.

This well illustrated title is packed with information. It would make an excellent addition to a home or school library.

By the way, I very much liked the Maori prayer that is at the end of this title.

Many thanks to Norwood House Press and NetGalley for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub Date 15 Aug 2022

48 pages