This historical mystery takes place within London’s legal world. It is very much a story in which the clues have been fairly planted. However, not all readers will remember them.
There are two things going on within the novel. One plot has to do with the death by murder of a chief justice. The other intriguing question has to do with the authorship of a book featuring a very famous mouse.
Will the two storylines intersect? How will this murder case with many aspects and suspects be solved? How important will Millie the mouse be?
I thoroughly enjoyed this very traditional mystery and look forward to the authors next book which comes out in 2025.
Bird lovers, rejoice! This is simply a lovely book and well worth a look.
This title is divided into two broad sections. They are Birds of the World and Bird Relationships. Dip in anywhere and enjoy the absolutely gorgeous (!) illustrations and the interesting text.
This is a book to savor and would make a wonderful gift for a bird lover.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Timber Press. All thoughts are my own.
Pub date: 21 October 2025
From the publisher:
An elegant gift for bird lovers, this book showcases an award-winning painter’s world class art, combined with entertaining facts about birds from all over the world.
The Illuminated Book of Birds is a stunning, one-of-a-kind celebration of the birds of the world by award-winning painter Robin Crofut-Brittingham. It includes large-scale fine art paintings of the birds in Latin America, Africa, Asia, Oceania, North America, and Europe, along with flightless birds, unusual birds, and extinct birds. It looks at birds together, grouping them by geography and families, and delights in uncovering their habits and cultural and mythological significance.
Every bird is individually featured, with curious and fun facts that will delight new and seasoned birders. In total, readers meet nearly 400 hand painted birds and experience a global birding adventure from the comfort of home.
I recently spent a semester reading all six of Jane Austen’s major novels so was intrigued by and delighted to have the opportunity to read this title. Many authors have contributed. Among my favorites are Katherine Reay, Charlie Lovett, Natalie Jenner, Julia Quinn, and Janet Todd.
There are different encounters here. Some are critical looks at the novels, as for example, when Julia Quinn writes on Mansfield Park. Charlie Lovett includes the beginning of his own Austen themed novel. These are just two of many examples.
It is easy to recommend this title to those who love Jane Austen. There is much to enjoy here.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Aurora Metro Books for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 15 October 2025
From the publisher:
Description
Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the birth of the literary legend, this anthology features a vibrant mix of short stories, essays, interviews and poetry contributed by over 30 writers and artists. It presents a delightful blend of both contemporary and classic works, accompanied by humorous illustrations and timeless quotes from Jane Austen herself.
With an introductory overview of Austen’s life and work by author and academic Professor Jennie Batchelor, this volume also showcases notable contributors such as Bridgerton author Julia Quinn, actor and writer Talulah Riley, bestselling authors Charlie Lovett and Natalie Jenner, and two Pulitzer Prize-winning poets, Edna St Vincent Millay and Sara Teasdale.
Includes an exclusive interview with Martin Jennings about the making of the new bronze sculpture of Jane Austen which will be unveiled on October 16th at Winchester Cathedral.
Editorial Reviews
Review
“Encounters with Jane Austen is a delightful compendium of reactions—or perhaps we should call them love notes–from many creative writers and other thoughtful interpreters who share their appreciation for Austen. Reading Encounters is like discussing Austen with your best friends if your friends group were to include the likes of Julia Quinn and Natalie Jenner among many other talented authors. Insightful, yet “light and bright and sparkling,” this book offers a wonderful way to celebrate the many facets of Austen’s genius and to enjoy an excellent introduction to her life and impact prepared by scholar Jennie Batchelor.” Mary Mintz, Librarian Emeritus, American University, Washington
“Fizzing with originality and creative energy, each contributor reveals their own deeply personal encounter with Austen’s work, finding new relevance and importance in the great novelist en route.” Professor Hannah Greig (Royal Holloway University), author of “The Beau Monde” and historical consultant to film (The Favourite; The Duchess) & TV (Bridgerton; The Buccaneers; Sanditon; Poldark).
“Jane Austen’s much-loved characters read ‘Elegant extracts’, and were very entertained. For us, in the twenty-first century, there’s so much to entertain in this carefully curated collection. It contains poetry, short stories, essays, and interviews with creators and thinkers – and indeed, with Jane herself! Savour in sections, or gobble it up in one sitting as we celebrate 250 years of Austen’s life, her writing, and her enduring legacy.” Gillian Dow, Assoc. professor at Southampton University.
“A veritable smorgasbord for fans of Austen, as artists, poets, literary critics and writers come together to explore why, at 250, Jane is still inspiring, enthralling and infuriating us.” Helena Kelly, author of Jane Austen, the Secret Radical and the forthcoming The Worlds of Jane Austen
The Three Dahlias is a traditional mystery that is reminiscent of titles published during mystery’s “Golden Age.” It will be enjoyed by those who like to sink into a long (373 page) crime novel that is not overly violent.
The Dahlias of the title are actresses who starred in, or about to star in, TV or movies that feature Dahlia Lively, a sleuth. Each starred at a certain point in time; Rosalind was first, followed by Caro and, now, Posy who is the latest Dahlia. Each of these actresses has a backstory that impacts the plot. They are a bit competitive with one another but join forces to solve the case that is at the center of the novel.
The Dahlias are attending a super fan convention as the story opens. There are many people on the grounds of the famous author’s home, so loads of suspects. These include family members, those involved with the new film, and the super fans.
No spoiler to say that there is a murder. With their three brains and styles coming to the fore, the Dahlias are on the case. Relax and follow along as they solve it.
I enjoyed this title’s setting and characters. It was a bit slow moving at times though. Still, that was kind of soothing, just following along at a leisurely pace.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Hachette Book Group for this title. All opinions are my own.
Pub date: 21 July 2022
Praise for The Three Dahlias
‘An absolute treat of a read with all the ingredients of a vintage murder mystery: a country house, mysterious dead bodies and three actresses all keen to catch the killer. Perfect weekend reading!’ Janice Hallett, author of The Appeal
‘A wonderful celebration of Golden Age crime. . . a read you can sink into, just like the perfect country house weekend. You will definitely love Dahlia in all her guises by the end’ S.J. Bennett, author of The Windsor Knot
‘I loved it – witty, engaging and hugely enjoyable. A must for fans of classic mysteries’ Frances Brody
‘An affectionate homage to the Golden Age of Detective Fiction and a wry nod to our continuing fascination with it. Great fun. Warm, ingenious and. . . lively!’ L C Tyler
‘A sprightly offering. . . a pleasant summer read’ The Critic
NOTE: The current price for the digital book is just $7.99 for those who may want to pre-order.
Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too! 