Bibliophiles rejoice: The Lions of Fifth Avenue A Novel by Fiona Davis

by joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviewsMarch 8, 2020

Fiona Davis has written a number of historical fiction titles.  Each book is set in an iconic NYC landmark and has a dual narrative structure and timeline.  In this, the strongest of her novels yet, the reader spends time at the main New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue.

The story in the past begins around 1913.  The iconic library has just opened.  The superintendent, Jack; his wife, Laura; and their two children, Pearl and Harry actually live in an apartment inside the enormous new library.  Jack, in addition to his job, is writing what he hopes will be the great American novel.  Laura, up until now, a woman who married for love and cares for her family wants more.  She enrolls as one of very few women at the Columbia School of Journalism.  Jack and Laura’s desire for fulfillment leads to conflict, misunderstandings and tragedy.  The fallout from their actions influences the story that takes place in the 1990s which is about their descendants.

In the present, Sadie works as a curator at the very same library on 42nd Street.  Her love of all things bookish is apparent.  Under Sadie’s watch, volumes are being stolen from the library.  How do the past and present collide?  Read the book to find out.

I learned a lot about collectable and antiquarian books as well as the library through reading this novel.  I now know more about valuable books and how they are both vulnerable and protected. Clearly Ms. Davis has been meticulous in her research and loves her subject.

There are themes to this novel in addition to the mystery, romance and depictions of life at the Columbia School of Journalism,  the Village and the library.  What sacrifices are women asked to make and when are they too much?  How much is owed to a family?  Can we be forgiven for mistakes?  How important is it to have a relationship and to take risks for it? Who should define what a person wants in life?

Ms. Davis does an excellent job of connecting the two narratives.  The book is a page turner that will be eagerly embraced by her loyal readers and will also be enjoyed by those new to the author.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.  I recommend it very highly.

#TheLionsofFifthAvenue #NetGalley

A Novel

by Alexandra Joel

Pub Date 07 Sep 2021   

Those who enjoy historical, women’s fiction should definitely mark their calendars for this title’s release date. It was a fun and absorbing read set in both Australia and England.

Protagoras Blase Hill grew up poor in Sydney. She has promise and wants a career. With the help of one of her teachers she secures a newspaper job. Blaise’s career will take her far, all the way to being the Royal Correspondent of the title.

Blaise’s early jobs taught her a lot about fashion so names like Yves St. Laurent, Mary Quant and Cecil Beaton make appearances in the novel. Her later career puts her in the midst of mid-century history; readers follow her as she covers Princess Margaret and Antony Armstrong-Jones. Readers also meet John Profumo and Christine Keeler, and learn about spies including Kim Philby. It makes for a fascinating background.

This novel also has a romantic story line, family and friendships. Will Blaise find love with Charlie who seems to have it all; this includes a high government position, a family seat, charm and more. But…there is also the mysterious Adam Rule. He knows a dark secret from Blaise’s past; will he use this against her? Readers also get to know Blaise’s sister Ivy who contracted polio and the close friends with whom Blaise lives in England. Readers will be turning the pages as they await the resolution of the novel’s several strands.

Ms. Joel writes an interesting note at the end of the novel sharing her inspiration and resources. This background places the book in context.

The Royal Correspondent reads easily and I always looked forward to picking it up. Here is a good escapist read.

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

Julius Caesar is free.

This is the first book that I have read by Ellery Adams and I truly enjoyed it. The protagonist, Nora, is a bookseller who believes that there is a book that is just right for each customer’s particular emotional state; the notion that one could get meaningful suggestions from a bookseller was lovely in this day of internet sales. I enjoyed the many literary references and the back stories of the protagonists. There are also hints of romance. If you like cozies, I would recommend this book highly.

The Minotaur Sampler, Volume 3

New Books to Make Your Heart Race

by Hannah Morrissey, Kimi Cunningham Grant, Julia Dahl, Nancy Springer

by Dana Mentink

Poisoned Pen Press is one of my favorite publishers of mysteries. This time, the title is a cozy as can be guessed from the cover. The story is about Trinidad who dreams of opening a milkshake shop (sounds good). She has left her conniving husband after having been his third spouse. Trinidad lands in the place where the other ex-wives reside. Of course, a murder occurs. Who is responsible?

Fans of small town mysteries that are meant to be fun will want to take a look. It is the first in a series.

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

by Anita Bijsterbosch

Pub Date 29 Jun 2021

This picture book for the youngest children has the most adorable and appealing illustrations. Many titles have been published for young children in which they can learn the names of objects; in my opinion this is one of the cutest. Each two page spread features many things to name and find. For example, children are invited to see things in the bedroom, the kitchen, in the garden and more. They are also invited to look at animals and vehicles. Think about purchasing this one for a young child that you know; you will both enjoy it.

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

by Jane Harper

Jane Harper has now written four novels. This is the one that set her on her successful path.

The Dry is an atmospheric story with characters that readers will get to know well. The story centers on deaths in both the present and past, moving between the two.

Protagonist Aaron Falk left his small town many years ago for reasons that readers will learn. He returns for the funeral of his best friend whose death occurred under troubling circumstances. In addition to Luke’s death, his wife and son have been murdered, only leaving behind a baby. Is this tragedy related to something that happened when Aaron and Luke were teens? What happened to one of their tight knit group in those days?

In addition to creating memorable characters, Ms. Harper creates a very real place. It is one where drought reigns and life is difficult. So, there are difficult times for people and the land.

I highly recommend Ms. Harper’s novels. Readers of mystery/suspense titles should give this one a look.

Note that this book has recently been made into a movie.

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

The Gibran is free.