Is it so that: Something’s Guava Give

by Carrie Doyle

Here is the second book in a cozy series by Carrie Doyle. It has a fun title with a pun and is an entertaining escapist read.

Dreaming of living on a tropical island after leaving fraught city life? Think it will be easier? Well, maybe it should be but it surely is not for Plum. Her simple life is disrupted by a murder and her need to get involved in the events that follow. There are lots of shady characters in this sunny setting.

Come along for the ride and the escapism. Then read the others in the series.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub date: 25 January 2022

Go for a walk! London Thames Path

updated edition

by David Fathers

#LondonThamesPath #NetGalley

Most know that the Thames has an important place in the history of England and, of course, most visitors to London spend some time by it. So do the natives. Here is a title that offers everyone an excellent guide to places along its banks. There are so many included in this book, among them are the well known such as Westminster Abbey, St. Paul’s and the London Eye. There are also less known spots including Cubitt Town and Blackwell.

A helpful introduction reminds readers of the river’s importance. Then organized by areas, find out more about the many attractions. Note also that the book has very inviting graphics.

Anyone going for a walk may love this title. Those who can’t travel or be in London may also enjoy some armchair travel.

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

Pub date: 13 September 2022

Those four! Little Women

Illustrations by Marjolein Bastin

by Louisa May Alcott

#LittleWomen #NetGalley.

I have adored these editi0ns of the classics with illustrations by Ms. Bastin. They make each book feel special. Look for the others too. There are lots of Austens, among others.

This time, the novel is the most classic of American novels, Little Women. The story of the March sisters is filled with affection and understanding. This was the first book that I ever read as a classic. I was a kid and it was a light bulb moment as I learned that the term classic did not mean boring. I have since read Little Women several times, even once in a class on children’s literature.

Here is an edition that I agree is not inexpensive but is so beautiful. It would make a perfect gift. Having seen this as an e galley, I am likely to buy this one when it is published. I can’t wait to turn the actual pages.

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

Pub date: 04 October 2022

Try it: Tastes Better From Scratch Cookbook

Easy Recipes for Everyday Life

by Lauren Allen

For those who want to cook but don’t want to be overwhelmed by complexity, this book is a nice resource. Inside are over 100 recipes, all of which are illustrated, and have easy to follow directions.

Inside are recipes for breakfast, a section on muffins and breads which is then followed by suggestions for dinners, soups, salads and sides, and desserts. A sample from each section: Easy Homemade Scones, Pumpkin Bread, Baked Ziti, Corn Chowder, Baked Potato Salad and Peach Cobbler.

There are q codes for additional help. I also like that at the top of the page for each recipe prep time, cook time, total time and recipe yield are all listed.

This book would make a great gift for someone just learning to cook, even if that person is you. There is enough here for weeks of cooking. The author is a mom of four so she knows the importance of getting those meals out. Those who use this book will meet all of the family.

#TastesBetterFromScratchCookbook #NetGalley

Many thanks to NetGalley and Greenleaf Book Group for this title. All opinions are my own.

Pub Date 27 Sep 2022