Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too!

by Clara McKenna

Here is the third entry in an enjoyable historical mystery series. Altogether, there are four books so far.

This time, Stella (an American) is to marry her British fiance. As readers of the genre well know, things will not just proceed to plan. Rather, there is murder and mayhem. What is the significance of a particular wedding gift? Why did a victim have a clipping about Morrington Hall, the wedding venue? What role will Stella’s father play in events? Will all come right in the end and will the wedding take place? Keep reading to find out as Stella and Lyndy work to resolve matters.

Recommended for fans of pretty cozy historical mysteries.

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

Pub date: 29 June 2021

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

#AnnaPavlova #NetGalley

In this entry in the informative series, readers learn about Anna Pavlova. She dreamed of being a ballerina from a very young age. Find out how she achieved her dream and what she also gave to others in this delightfully illustrated title..

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

Pub date: 01 November 2022

by Tammy Euliano

Note that this title is currently just $1.99 in its e book version.

Anesthesiologist and protagonist of this novel, Kate, thinks that too many of her elderly patients are dying. Because this is a medical thriller, of course her colleagues do not believe her and give her a hard time. However, Kate will not let go despite professional setbacks and she investigates. Along the way she is helped by her great aunt and a lawyer. There will be excitement and danger before everything is resolved.

The author of this first novel knows whereof she speaks. This is a medical thriller written by a physician; this lends a sense of authenticity to what follows.

Those who enjoy stories that combine medicine and suspense will enjoy this title. Note that there is a second book coming out by this author. It is titled Misfire and will be released in January.

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

Pub date: 02 August 2021

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Medical suspense as sharp as it gets. Euliano is off to a good, no, a brilliant start.” —Kathy Reichs, New York Times best-selling author

“This is terrific—delicious suspense, done-that authenticity, and a great main character in Dr. Kate Downey . . . We want to see more of her.” —Lee Child, New York Times best-selling author

“Fatal Intent rings with thrilling authenticity. Tammy Euliano writes with convincing authority, immersing us in a world only a doctor truly knows.” —Tess Gerritsen, New York Times best-selling author

“Tense and fulfilling, there’s plenty of sizzle and emotional clout in this stirring debut. And, even better, it’s all written by someone who knows what she’s talking about. A wonderful beginning and I’m looking forward to more.” —Steve Berry, New York Times best-selling author

At 900 pages, “The Last Chairlift,” his 15th novel, is an overstuffed family saga about a screenwriter very much like the author himself.
— Read on www.nytimes.com/2022/10/18/books/the-last-chairlift-john-irving.html

The stories behind iconic artworks

by Debra N. Mancoff

#MakingAMasterpiece #NetGalley

This lavishly illustrated title tells the stories behind twelve well-known artworks. The paintings include everything from Botticelli’s Birth of Venus to Amery Sherald’s portrait of Michelle Obama. Interestingly to me, many are paintings of or by women. There are the Mona Lisa, Judith Beheading Holofernes and Woman in Gold, for example.

Each featured art work is labeled a masterpiece, a term that is defined in this title’s introduction. The history of the word is also discussed. The author also talks about the current plurality in the art world and questions how masterpieces may (or may not) fit within this framework.

Each of these works is discussed in depth. Ways in which a given painting has influenced more contemporary artists is also included here. Read in any order and come away with a deeper understanding of these treasures.

Recommended for both the serious art historian and a reader who would like to take a deep dive into works with which they may already be familiar.

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

Pub date: 01 November 2022

#TerryFox #NetGalley

In this entry in the long running series, young readers learn about Terry Fox, a famous Canadian. This is a story that shows how a life can be redefined and much can be achieved, even after a difficult setback. Terry was not expecting the turn that his life took but he (literally) ran with it. This is an inspiring entry in the series.

The author does a good job of explaining what cancer is, albeit briefly. She does this without making the story too scary. Ms. Sanchez Vegara also acknowledges Terry’s death so be ready to discuss this. She goes on to note the impact that Terry has had as others now run for his cause.

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

Pub date: 01 November 2022

The titles below are from this week’s The Short List:

These are recent titles that are offered at a discount

Other e book bargains:

by Amalie Howard

Looking for some lighthearted escapism? Maybe you are wanting a book to easily sink into and you liked Bridgerton? If yes, definitely give this title a look.

Readers need to suspend their disbelief as they get to know a duke with a desire for money and a reputation for not being a people person, to put it mildly. Fate puts a young woman in his path. She, Genevieve, is down on her luck when he makes her an offer. What will happen from here? It is a romance so readers can be pretty sure of the answer. The fun is in watching the story unfold.

Many thanks to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 12 July 2022

From the Publisher

Editorial Reviews

Review

“Fabulous writing . . . such a delicious escape. Utterly delightful!”

“Howard’s lyrical writing enlivens her bright, empathetic characters and her sharp eye on their class and cultural disparities only enhances their romance. Readers will be riveted.”―Publishers Weekly―Eloisa James, New York Times bestselling author“Refreshing, steamy, and stocked with characters you don’t normally get to see in the genre—a must-read author.”―Jodi Picoult, #1 New York Times bestselling author