A Guide to Reading and Reflecting

by Karen Swallow Prior; Charlotte Brontë

Jane Eyre is, of course, a classic and one that many have read or plan to read. This edition includes the full text of the novel along with some added sections. These include a biographical essay on the author. One thing that became clear from reading this was the number of losses that Bronte faced.

This title also includes sections on reading the novel. A number of topics are covered including to what extent the book was autobiographical and other influences on the author as she wrote. The evolution of the novel and Bronte’s originality are also covered as are themes in the work. In addition, there is background on the Gothic novel and Romanticism.

This title is published by a Christian firm. So, there is also a part of the book on reading the novel “as a Christian today,”

Overall, I feel that this edition will be welcomed by readers looking for some insight into Jane Eyre before they read or reread it. There are even some questions for discussion included after each of the novel’s volumes.

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

by Inspired Inner Genius

This title is for young readers and has graphic novel like illustrations. It tells the story of Albert Einstein. Readers learn that he had his struggles, especially when young. His teachers did not always like him and did not recognize his intelligence. Of course, he went on to achieve amazing things as the author of this book duly notes.

This book gives a positive message to kids. It reminds them that, even if there are setbacks, perseverance can pay off.

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

The Lost for Words Bookshop (Butland)

by joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviewsJuly 6, 2018

When I saw the cover for this book, I thought that it would be a typical, light, women’s fiction read. That is not the case at all! This book is much more than that. Protagonist Loveday, who does work in a bookshop, is a unique, idiosyncratic, hurt young woman who does not trust easily. There are reasons for this as the reader learns. She is tattooed with quotes from her favorite novels, has a painful backstory, is bright and someone the reader hopes for. All of the characters from Nathan, to Rob, to Annabel, to Archie, to Loveday’s family are vividly portrayed and each has an important role in her life. This book is definitely worth reading in my opinion. I was inspired to look for the author’s other novels upon completing this. Thanks NetGalley and St. Martin’s for this excellent read.

#TheLostForWordsBookshop #NetGalley

Malala Yousafzai

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

This is yet another beautifully illustrated and well written entry in this long running series. This time the story of Malala is simply and honestly told, including her having been shot. Malala’s wish for an education for her and all girls is nicely and inspiringly explored here. She has traveled far and accomplished much and was the youngest winner of the Nobel prize.

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

From the publisher:

Discover the life of Malala Yousafzai, the incredible activist for girls’ education and the youngest Nobel Prize laureate​!

In the beautiful Swat Valley, in Pakistan, lived a Muslim girl called Malala. Her home was humble, and so was the schoolfor girls her father ran. Malala couldn’t wait to grow up,attend class and discover all her talents.	But Malala’s dream became a nightmare when a violent group called the Taliban took control of her valley. They banned most of the things she liked, from listening to music, to taking photographs, and even flying kites.	The Taliban believed that, instead of going to school, girls should get married, cover their bodies from head to toe, and never leave the house without their husbands or brothers. It was like being in prison for doing nothing wrong!

The Architecture Lover’s Guide to Paris

by Ruby Boukabou

To me, Paris is a magical city. The first time that I visited, I could not believe that I was standing in front of so many places that lived in my imagination. On that first trip, I cried when I left the city; that is how much being there had meant to me.

Of course now, travel is much more complicated and I don’t see a trip to the City of Light in my near future. So, I was delighted to come across this book that allows for a lovely virtual visit. Early in the book, there is a helpful architectural timeline that helps readers to recognize the styles and periods in Paris’s history. From there, some of the topics covered in this title are cafes, restaurants and bars; train stations; Metro entrances; churches; museums, public parks, cemeteries and more. Also included are hotels and information on shopping. In addition, there is a helpful section of sell-guided walking tours. Throughout, the book is filled with photos that bring Paris to life. .

Take a look at this guide. Dream of when it will be possible to visit again.

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

An uplifting, escapist read set on the French Riviera

by Jennifer Bohnet

A Riviera Retreat offers readers a gorgeous setting (France on the Riviera with side trips to Cannes and Monaco), relatable characters and an engaging story line that pays homage to the well known book, Enchanted April.

Protagonist, Amy, has inherited a wellness retreat from her aunt. It offered her the perfect escape from a bad marriage. Now, Amy would like to give something back. Influenced by Enchanted April, she has a contest. The winners will spend ten days at Belle Vue at no expense. The book then tells the stories and backstories of these characters. They include Matilda; she is in her 60s and a widow of two years. Will she decide to move to France as she had planned with her husband before he died? Next is Vicky who is married to a politician and is an aspiring author. Now that her children are older, she wants a life of her own. Will she get it? Finally there is Chelsea. Her affair with a married man (though she did not know that he was married) has come to light in the most embarrassing of ways. Will this caterer get her life back on track?

I enjoyed following all of the story lines and the relationships that these characters have with each other and the significant people in their lives. All of this with (virtual) good food, friendship and more make for the perfect relaxing read. Those who would like a nice, escapist read, please get hold of this one.

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

Do you have time for-A Walk Along the Beach A Novel by Debbie Macomber

by joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviewsAugust 27, 2020

Debbie Macomber is a prolific writer of women’s fiction. This, her latest title, is dedicated to her very close friend, a woman who died of cancer. Indeed, one of the two sisters in this title has had a bout with cancer as well. As a result, Harper wants to live her life to the fullest. She is a risk taker. Older sister and caretaker Willa worries about her and so does the reader of the novel, wondering if she will stay healthy.
As Harper’s story unfolds, so does Willa’s. She owns a coffee bar and bakery that I would love to visit. Into the store walks Sean, a former baseball player and now a photographer with a passion for good causes. The title of the book comes from the location of their first date. Will his relationship with Willa make it?
I know that Ms. Macomber is a knitter and one place Sean travels to is Bolivia where he wants to document the impact of climate issues on those who graze animals for wool. I assume that the issue is a real one because of the author’s interests. It adds an interesting travel story to the novel.
I enjoyed this book and its characters as they explored, faced challenges and cared about each other. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

#AWalkAlongtheBeach #NetGalley