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

More Photos and Fun Facts about Tropical Reef Fish

by Tam Warner Minton

The author of this title clearly loves tropical fish. Tam has traveled the world to visit reefs in places including Australia, Ecuador. Indonesia, Africa, Mexico, Thailand and more.

Tam’s book is filled with detailed photos of the fish faces that were encountered and facts about them. The author encourages the children who read this book to learn more about ocean ecology and ways that they can help the planet. There are also many fun facts.

If you know a child who would like to see eels, puffer fish, trigger fish and more, this beautifully photographed book is a good resource.

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

Lots of choices here. I’ve reviewed the Mansell, the MacNeal and the Letts. I recommend Dorothy Sayers for lovers of traditional mysteries from the 30s. The JoJo Moyes books in the three book series, of which this is one, are best read in order. Hope you see something that you like!

An Amory Ames Mystery

by Ashley Weaver

A Deception at Thornecrest is the seventh title in Ashley Weaver’s series about Amory Ames, her husband Milo, and those around them. This time, Amory is pregnant and enjoying a sense of peace as she waits for her new arrival. But, of course, peace is not what she gets.

Just when it seems that Amory and Milo’s relationship is on track, after some ups and downs in previous entries, a woman appears claiming to also be married to Milo. If that weren’t challenging enough, of course there is a murder. This time it takes place on the day of the Springtide Festival.

How will it all be resolved? Read the novel to find out. Both new and long term readers of this British historical mystery series will welcome spending time with Amory and Milo.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

So many choices today. I highly recommend Bel Canto, Gaudy Night and Heaven, My Home. For light reads, there are Jill Mansell and Jodie Thomas. There are many Donna Leon book bargains although I have included just one. The Widows of Malabar Hill is the first in a new historical mystery series. Enjoy!

by Carole Boston Weatherford

Schomburg: The Man Who Built a Library tells the important story of Arturo Schomburg. As a child growing up, Schomburg realized that nowhere was the history of Black people being told in history, art or other school classes. His interest piqued, Schomburg spent his life learning and collecting.

The number of talented Blacks and the history mentioned in this book are extensive. To name a few, Schomburg learned about or knew Phillis Wheatly, the Amistad. Booker T. Washington, Toussaint Louverture, Frederick Douglass and Countee Cullen. Children will learn that Schomburg collected so many books that his wife finally issued an ultimatum…the books or her. It was from his decision in response, that the New York Public Library became the guardian of this remarkable man’s collection.

In this title, young readers also learn Schomburg’s own story. Born in Puerto Rico, he came to New York. He had a job, unusual in his time, that involved his supervising white workers. There were three marriages, all to women named Elizabeth and many more interesting biographical details in this book.

This title deserves a place in both home and elementary school libraries. It tells the story of an important man and his major contribution to Black history.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Mystery, literary fiction and non-fiction. I have enjoyed the Ellery Adams series. I just bought Magpie Lane which I have wanted to read for a while. If you want a feel good horse story, I recommend the Eighty Dollar Champion. I know the family that owned the horse but that is not why I recommend it. Enjoy .

The author of this adorable book tells readers early on that the word Kawaii roughly translates as “cuteness.” Well, the doodles that you can make from this book are just that. It is a feel good collection that I highly recommend. Learn how to make the sweet, whimsical doodles. Enjoy a few tricks; for example, think about where to place the two dots for eyes and the smile. Whether you like to draw or not, this title will bring a smile to your face.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

”#KawaiiDoodleWorld #NetGalley

A Sesame Street ® Guide to Homes around the World

by Karen Latchana Kenney

In this title, Sesame Street friends including Bib Bird, Cookie Monster, Elmo, Bert, Ernie and Grover look at where we live. Readers will find Big Bird in his nest while people are shown living in all kinds of houses, big and small. The authors also acknowledge that some people are homeless and live in a shelter. The book concludes with the acknowledgement is that a home is a place where you are loved.

This book can help to make a child’s world a bit bigger. The Sesame Street characters will keep little ones engaged as they explore the many domiciles.

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

by Anthea Syrokou

Dimity and sisters Maria and Nicki were good and artistically creative friends when they were growing up in Sydney. Their friendship changed when the sisters’ parents decided to move to Greece.

The story moves forward twenty years to when each is leading an adult life. Dimity is married and has issues with her mother in law. Nicki has not been able to have her longed for child and Maria still struggles in her relationship with her mother.

What will happen to all of them when they reunite? Readers of women’s fiction will enjoy finding out.

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

I especially recommend The Last Detective, the beginning of a long series set in Bath, England.