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.

The Mind Remedy

Discover, Make and Use Simple Objects to Nourish Your Soul

by Ruth Williams

The author of this title observes that objects can be symbols which are imbued with great meaning and healing potential. It is noted that this has been true over many centuries. The author also finds that objects that one makes can inspire even greater connections. In light of this,  she offers twenty different projects that bring together all that the author is trying to convey.  This book consists of four sections:  Finding Connection, Inner Peace, Self-Discovery, and Finding Your Roots. For example, an object to make in the first section is a teacup which will help to bring togetherness by having tea with a significant person. It is pointed out that over tea we are given space to talk and to care for someone.  There is then a project for making teacups with design and ideas for discussion.  For the Inner Peace section, one might make a worry doll or worry beads or a fidget toy. The book continues in this way for each of the subject areas.  Some of the projects look like they take more skill, while some, such as making a gratitude jar feel a bit easier.  All seem to inspire. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review. I like the concept of this book.  If you are a crafter looking for some thoughtful projects (and thoughts), I recommend this title.

#TheMindRemedy #NetGalley

The Deadly Hours

by Susanna Kearsley; C.S. Harris; Anna Lee Huber; Christine Trent

Years ago there was the Detection Club, its members were mystery writers including Agatha Christie.  The group collaborated on several books.  In a way, The Deadly Hours and its authors remind me of that since this title involves four writers in an interlinked story.  The four have all written historical mysteries that have been popular and good reads.  Here, they work well together telling the tale of a gold watch beginning in the 1700s and moving forward in time through several locales in Italy, Edinburgh and more.  It is a unique read. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher, the wonderful Poisoned Pen Press, for this book in exchange for an honest review.

Sissinghurst: The Dream Garden

by Tim Richardson

Garden lovers will rejoice in this title about a very well known and gorgeous English garden.  After an informative forward and introduction, the book is organized according to the varied sections of the extensive plantings.  The text is interesting and the photos invite readers right in.  I very much enjoyed my armchair time in the peaceful nature of this beautiful place.

When Winter Comes is a beautifully illustrated picture book that both children and adults will enjoy.  The parents and children in the story enjoy spending time outside as they acknowledge the teeming life that is just out of sight, perhaps in a log, maybe underground, possibly underwater.  With a text that shows an appreciation for all that nature provides, the book explores a winter habitat.  Encourage a nature lover that you know by getting them this book.

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

Pub Date 13 Oct 2020

#WhenWinterComes #NetGalley

The author of this title clearly loves Frida Kahlo. She has immersed herself in the life of this artist by spending time at La Casa Azul (Frida’s home) and by letting the spirit of this artist infuse her. Ms. Davis has also researched Frida’s life and work.
This book includes much biographical information on Frida; her life had contradictions and these are explored. There are many quotes throughout the illustrated text. Ms. Davis also looks to Frida as someone who can guide readers on good ways to live their lives. The book looks at this topic from several points of view including confidence, pain, creativity, style, love, heartbreak, sex, identity, and friendship. For example, the author notes the famous eyebrows and sees them as a way of loving/accepting herself, implying that there are ways that readers can practice their own self-acceptance.. Other suggestions include things like the using a creative outlet to help build inner strength.
If you are a fan of Frida Kahlo or if you enjoy self-help books, this book may appeal to you. Many thanks to the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.

pub date:  October 20, 2020

Mostly mystery, a bit of magical realism, a children’s title and the Jamie Chang which is highly recommended on Madam Writer’s blog.

This book should be required reading for young people, perhaps girls in particular, as the need is there to engage the next generation in the political process. This title includes 44 profiles of women, mostly from the U.S., with a few from around the world. Some of these women’s views are aligned with mine, while others are not. Perhaps this is good as the book can be used as a basis for discussion.
Some of the Americans included are Stacey Abrams, Dianne Feinstein, Kamala Harris, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Elizabeth Warren, Amy Klobuchar, Susan Collins and Betsy DeVos. Also, for example, internationally, there is an entry on Jacinda Ardern from New Zealand.
For each woman there are sections on topics including years in political office, positions held, a life story, a what’s on her agenda section and more. Each woman’s entry is presented with a lot of detail.
I like this title and feel that it should be part of school and home libraries. Readers will know more about those who represent them after spending time with this book.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

How many office Christmas parties have you been to? Did you enjoy them? Will there be any this year? If not, maybe we will all look back fondly on those afternoons or evenings when we got together with colleagues.
In this seasonal romance, our female protagonist Natalie is an events planner. So…she knows where the parties are and crashes many. Then there is Dean. After an upset (no spoiler), he is not interested in a relationship. He, too, is a party crasher.
Readers can predict the trajectory of this seasonal novel. Still, if escape appeals to you and you miss the office holiday season, you may enjoy this title.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.