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

Lots of modern classics here.  I’ve reviewed The Stranger Diaries which I liked.  There is another in the series scheduled for publication in England.  I liked the Ann Patchett which is an early novel.  For kids in hot weather, try Mr. Popper!  Enjoy.

Are any of you getting a message from NetGalley indicating that the site may be “unsafe?”

Just saw this as an e book bargain. I have blogged on it and think it is an excellent nonfiction title.

This title is one that ideally will be shared by a parent and a young child. Through a combination of simple text with some rhyming, and cartoon llustrations, many feelings are described and identified. Talking about the many emotions that a person can experience will help children to recognize what they are feeling and to learn that all of these can be described and talked about.
I found this to be a book that deserves a place in the homes of young kids. I did not love the illustrations but that is clearly a matter of personal preference and others may well feel differently.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.
pub date: November 1, 2020

#djcorchin #NetGalley

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I have been reading stories about Sarah Booth since the first in the series, Them Bones, was published in 1999. There are now over twenty titles in all.
Starting to read one of these mysteries is like taking a long exhale. They are relaxing, fun and require some suspension of disbelief. Sarah Booth has a haint (ghost) named Jitty who appears to her in various costumes and always with the same hope which is to find Sara Booth a husband and give her a child and a new generation to the family. Up until now this has not happened but Jitty always hopes as she takes part in the stories. Sara Booth is surrounded by a cast of other regulars as well from her best friend Tinkie to the sheriff.
Where Sara Booth goes, murder and hi jinks follow. It is no different in this stories which takes place near Easter.
Regular readers of Ms. Haines’s books will eagerly pick up this latest entry. The books can be read out of order but if you are looking for lots of escape, start at the beginning and then move forward.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

Pub date:  July 21, 2020

 

#TheDevilsBones #NetGalley

For a long time we have been hearing that the Mediterranean diet is the one to follow in order to be healthy. Well, the good news is that healthy takes nothing away from delicious as this collection of 101 recipes proves. With so many choices, reader-cooks will be happy and well through many meals.

Readers will find recipes for seafood, pasta, poultry, vegetable, snacks and desserts in this collection. The author also includes sections on topics including the Mediterranean diet, staples to have on hand, etc.

Try a cheesy spinach pie, creamy garlic and cheese polenta, or how about a caramelized flatbread with arugula. The recipes appear to be very doable and the illustrations are enticing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

#5IngredientMediterraneanCookbook #NetGalley

from the publisher:

One of many tasty recipes inside: White Pizza with Prosciutto and Arugula

SERVES: 4 | PREP TIME: 10 MINUTES | COOK TIME: 15 MINUTES

White pizza is a good alternative for those that don’t like the traditional red sauce. The cured prosciutto and lemony basil add some salt and sweetness to this dish.

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 450°F. Roll out the pizza dough on a floured surface.

2. Put the pizza dough on a parchment-lined baking sheet or pizza sheet. Put the dough in the oven and bake for 8 minutes.

3. In a small bowl, mix together the ricotta, garlic, and mozzarella.

4. Remove the pizza dough from the oven and spread the cheese mixture over the top. Bake for another 5 to 6 minutes.

5. Top the pizza with prosciutto, arugula, and pepper; serve warm.

I read, reviewed and liked Still Waters and the Ellery Adams book.  Regular readers of this blog know that I always recommend books by Donna Leon.  The Paris Orphan and They Called It Camelot are in my TBR pile.  Enjoy.

The Grimm Brothers wrote some of our best loved fairy tales. Here 211 (can you believe so many ?) are placed together in one lavishly illustrated volume. Revisit stories that you may already know including Hansel and Gretel; Cinderella and/or Little Snow White and then go on to read fairy tales and legends that may be new discoveries for you.

This book looks like it would make a wonderful gift, either to one’s self or a child in your life. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

pub date:  August 4, 2020

This is a book that was written to encourage contemplation.  It includes passages, stories and journal prompts in order to prompt reflection. Those who are looking for a guided journal with a spiritual bent may well want to add this title to their shelves.

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

#60DaysofFaithforWomen #NetGalley

From the publisher:

This is a lovely book that has very appealing illustrations. The outdoor ones are in earth tones and show nature beautifully.
Readers will learn the story of a young girl who had curiosity in abundance. Her discoveries led to the discovery of dinosaur bones and so much more. Mary studied and learned for her whole life; she became an expert even though she was not allowed to study in the all male universities of the time. Interestingly though male scholars came to her with their questions.
Mary’s story is well told. It is inspiring and I hope through this book will become better known. The end of the book contains additional helpful resources.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.