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

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This has been such a tough year for so many. During this time, books have most definitely sustained me…and I hope you as well.

Many thanks to everyone who has taken the time to read the blog. I wish you all a year that is healthy, peaceful and happy.

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

Over the course of 2021 I have reviewed many books in this series. It seems appropriate somehow to close out the year with this title on a truly good man and inspiring figure. Hope it will also inspire you and the children in your life.

Nelson Mandela’s story is well and simply told here, from his early years, through his education and eventual arrest. Mandela’s “long walk to freedom” is noted. I love the last sentence of this book. It simply states “…a winner is just a dreamer who never gives up.”

As it always true in this series, there are supplemental materials at the end of the book. These offer additional information. Also, the illustrations enhance the text; their colors match the tone of the story.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.

The books listed below have all been read by me. If interested, you can find the reviews on my site.

Blog readers, does this work or do you prefer when I post the review?

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Susan Wittig Albert has been penning China Bayles mysteries since 1994 when Thyme of Death was published. I have been a fan since the beginning. I like the characters and the ways in which relationships among them evolve and change. Reading each new title is like going for a visit with old friends.

A few of the characters:

China is a former lawyer who has moved to Pecan Springs, Texas where she runs businesses related to her love of herbs.

Ruby is China’s close friend. She may appear a bit flaky and New Age at times but she is solid. Readers learn some important back story about her over the course of the books.

McQuaid is the one with whom China spars and has a relationship.

There are many others and I enjoy them all.

This newest book has to do with a stolen book and the chaos that follows its fate. The story includes a good enough mystery and lots of herbal lore.

I enjoyed this title. If you have time though, start at the beginning and work your way up to this one.

The Hotel That Set Women Free

by Paulina Bren

There was a time when young women moving to New York City spent their first weeks (or longer) at the Barbizon Hotel. The guests were both famous and not. All were looking for a place that a female could safely and uncontroversially stay. Everyone from Grace Kelly to Sylvia Plath spent time there, beginning after WWI. The building is still there but, of course, is no longer the same.

It was a place of rules. For example, no men were allowed upstairs. But, even so, it offered a welcome sense of freedom to its residents.

Those who are interested in the social history, the roles of women and the city of New York will find that this title is interesting and informative. It is also somewhat nostalgic and, for that reason, may give readers a pleasant escape.

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