Celebrate: The Birthday Books

by Gina Palmer

#TheBirthdayBooks #NetGalley

This is a short, sweet book about a baby who grows and develops. The accompanying illustrations here are gentle and engaging. A young child may enjoy this story that showcases babyhood. An extra of the book is pages for writing birthday memories and wishes.

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

Pub date: 10 January 2023

Next in a favorite series: Showstopper

by Peter Lovesey

#Showstopper #NetGalley

I have followed Peter Diamond since his debut in The Last Detective (1991). I was first drawn to the series because of the setting in Bath, one of my favorite places. I stayed because I loved the stories and the characters. In this latest title, Diamond has people inquiring about his retirement. Oh no!

This time Diamond and his team are investigating a series of events (including deaths) that are plaguing a TV series. Readers know that the case will be solved. The fun is watching how the author achieves this.

There are some droll characters here including a man and dog who have no fixed abode. He is a wily and ingenious character who likes sparring with Diamond. There are vignettes including one with a woman who is hard of hearing. Lovesey goes for humor at times but the plot of the story is always there. There are twists and turns as a true master leads readers/listeners to the solution.

This was the first time that I listened to a Diamond title, rather than reading it. I am so glad that I did. I loved hearing Diamond speaking.

I highly recommend this book to those who enjoy British mysteries. Publishers Weekly has given it a starred review.

Release date: 06 December 2022

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