See the many: Colors of London

A History

by Peter Ackroyd

#ColorsofLondon #NetGalley

I have read Ackroyd’s takes on both The Canterbury Tales and King Arthur so was intrigued to see what he would have to say about London. As it turns out, not surprisingly, Ackroyd has a good deal to say. Within these pages are history and nostalgia, along with photos and other visuals that cove many years. The whole is organized by color palettes; these include Light, Fire, White, God, Blue, Green, Red, Brown, Gray, Black, The Night, and finally, The Full Spectrum.

Ackroyd notes that London is a city of light and shade, perhaps not so vibrant as Paris or New York…and yet, what a place it is. It is surely a city with a palette. Enjoy looking at the many photos or read along too and learn a lot about this renowned British metropolis. I especially enjoyed the period posters that were in many sections.

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

Pub date: 04 October 2022

Could she be the answer? The Jane Austen Remedy by Ruth Wilson

I was drawn to this book by its title, with its mention of Jane Austen, and the importance of reading that is acknowledged on the cover. I am often interested in reads that are about books and authors.

This memoir opens when Ruth Wilson found herself most unhappy as she turned sixty. Her decision for moving forward led her to move to her own home away from her husband of many years. What Ruth planned to do there was to reacquaint herself with Austen’s novels. I was intrigued by the prospect of contemplating Austen with her.

This title is filled with literary references and insight into Austen and other writers. There is also much about the author’s life growing up in Australia as a young Jewish woman and moving through adulthood.

I found this memoir to be interesting but left it wishing that I had liked it more. I think that perhaps it meandered a bit for me. Still, if you are an Austen fan or a woman of a certain age, you might enjoy this one.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Allison & Busby for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub Date 22 Sep 2022

Sadly it is time for the: Farewell Blues by Maggie Robinson

This is the fourth of four books. It ends the series nicely.

In this entertaining historical mystery, set in the 20s, Lady Adelaide Compton and Detective Inspector Devenand Hunter come together to solve the murder of Lady A’s mother’s secret lover. Did she do it? According to mystery book conventions for cozies, this is highly unlikely so who did kill the Duke of Rufford? Readers will enjoy finding out and will undoubtedly be sad that this appears to be the last in the series.

These books are perhaps best read in order so look at them all.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this title.

A fun way for:

Searching for Inspiration

Word Searches and Writing Prompts to Uplift

by Driven

#SearchingforInspiration #NetGalley

This book has a rather catchy title with its two meanings. Inside this book are word search puzzles that have inspirational themes. One example is the very first puzzle. The theme is Reflecting on Gratitude. The word list includes the words family, kindness, friends and comfort among others. The author suggests that the reader reflect on the first three words that they found. Another puzzle has Joy as its topic; there are 100 puzzles in all.

Those who enjoy word searches with positive themes will enjoy this book. It is a nice addition to the word search genre.

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

06 September