Garden Heaven

 

Garden Heaven is a beautifully illustrated and inspirational gardening reference by Vanessa Berridge under the auspices of the National Trust. Released 9th May 2024 in the UK, and due out elsewhere the 10th Sept 2024 by HarperCollins on their Collins Reference imprint, it's 192 pages and is available in hardcover format. 

This is a well illustrated guide full of color photography and clear recommendations about species and varieties for specific purposes in the garden design. The book has an attractive and logical layout with easy to understand and accessible language. Plants are referred to throughout with both common names and binomial (Latin) names. The index is cross referenced, so plants are easy to locate in the text, and Latin binomials are italicized.

The introduction includes some of the author's aesthetic in grouping the featured gardens and methodology in selection. The following chapters showcase a number of gorgeous (and famous) gardens in various areas of the UK. 

This is an inspiring and educational book, full of ideas for garden lovers no matter what the scale of their own green spaces. Very few gardeners will have the space to recreate the famous gardens pictured, however, there are so many good takeaways which can be adapted to readers' own gardens. Since the book is absolutely full of color photographs and the text is relatively small and densely packed, the hardcover format is a must. 

The gardens represent a wide array of design and execution. The expected stately home gardens are represented chiefly, of course, with long alleys of topiary boxwood and formal layouts. What was equally welcome and more unexpected however, were the working farms, more informal gardens, cottage gardens, historical landmarks, and a surprising amount of unexpected juxtaposition inviting a close look. The author has also included some of the ways these gardens have reacted to and compensated to some degree for global warming trends and water/resource conservation, and rewilding areas for biodiversity.

Five stars. It would be an excellent choice for public library acquisition, home reference, or allotment/community garden reference shelf. Lots of inspiration contained here. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

The Wings of Poppy Pendleton

The Wings of Poppy Pendleton is a very well written standalone dual timeline (not timeslip) mystery by Melanie Dobson. Released 19th Sept 2023 by Tyndale House, it's 352 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. 

This is a gently written, engaging mystery set in parallel timelines, 1907 and 1992. The setting includes the ruins of a stately home on an island in rural New York state, and the castle in its heyday. A child's long unsolved disappearance and the concurrent death of her father cast a very long shadow. 

The author excels at both atmospheric scene setting as well as characterization. The characters are well delineated and run the gamut from appealing to truly irredeemably loathsome. The historical aspects seem to be well researched and the author has woven fiction around a historical framework so well it's not always clear where fact shades over to fiction. 

There are some dark themes included in the book (something of a surprise for a Christian publishing house), and they're central to the plot and include kidnapping, suicide ideation, abuse of several characters (including a child), drug abuse, neglect, etc. The family histories are *messy*.

There are mentions of Christian faith, scripture, and prayer, but they're not intrusive. The references to the almighty in the text are capitalized, but again, it didn't interrupt the flow of the narrative (but they are noticeable). 

Four stars. It's surprisingly dark for a Christian mystery/fantasy, but it's very well written. It's also quite complex and multi-layered. It's not a book to pick up for light summer poolside reading.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Super Simple Baking Cupcakes and Cakes for Young Chefs

 

Super Simple Baking Cupcakes and Cakes for Young Chefs is a graphically appealing simple dessert cookbook with recipes aimed at young readers by Mia Morselo. Released 15th May 2024, it's 80 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. 

It's well photographed throughout in color and written in simple accessible language. The short introduction covers tools and how to use them, through measuring tips and some general kitchen advice. 

The bulk of the book is the recipes, divided thematically: cupkakes, and cakes each in their own chapter. Recipes include a title followed by a bullet list of ingredients. Measurements are given in imperial (American) measurements with measured weights (in oz.) in parentheses. No metric equivalents are given. Ingredients will be readily available at any well stocked grocery store in North America (and indeed most will already be available in a moderately well stocked home kitchen). Nutritional information is not provided.

The step by step preparation instructions are easy to follow, and almost all of them have clear, unobstructed photos of each step. There is no index, no background information, and no links or further information.

The recipes are simple and quite basic (chocolate, vanilla, lemon, oreo, blueberry, cheesecake, carrot cake, etc). It might be valuable to have a one-volume go-to book for a young baking enthusiast, but none of the recipes in the book would be difficult to find online. 

Four stars. It is quite well illustrated and, as said, would be a good addition for public or school library, or for gift giving/activity with a young family member. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Robert Silverberg's Belzagor - Robert Silverberg's Belzagor #1+2

Robert Silverberg's Belzagor is a graphic novel adaptation and reformatting of Silverberg's original Down to the Earth (from 1970) reinterpreted by Philippe Thirault. Released 7th May 2024, it's 208 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats.

This is an adaptation (with a previously unpublished sequel) of a 54 year old Heart of Darkness pastiche. It's about 30% colonist diatribe, 40% unironic misogyny, and 30% sexscapade/soap opera. The original source material is quite dated and modern readers should probably be prepared to read it as a product of the time period. (Just the sexism alone wouldn't fly in a modern tale). The ending of the first part also differs from the original in some ways.

The art, by Laura Zuccheri, is finely detailed and full of movement. Despite the artist's expertise, the adaptation to graphic format isn't entirely successful and there are some gaps with long passages of character dialogue which doesn't suit the medium. 

Three stars. Worth a look (especially for the previously unpublished sequel). Potentially a good choice for public library acquisition (but be aware, there is *adult* content), or for gifting to a particularly keen Silverberg fan. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Math-ish: Finding Creativity, Diversity, and Meaning in Mathematics

Math-ish is a well reasoned evaluation of math learning and new ways to *think* about math education and how people learn, by Dr. Jo Boaler.Released 7th May 2024 by Harper Collins on their HarperOne imprint, it's 304 pages (print version) and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.

The author has a long career in education and presents her experiences showing the differences in results for students who succeed and those who struggle. Many educational teaching methods haven't changed a whole lot in hundreds of years. Outdated methods are slowly being replaced but change has been slow and often ineffective. Currently mathematics classes are being stripped to the bare minimum due to funding cuts as well as a lack of qualified and engaged teachers. All of this has led to a significant decrease in mathematics competency for students in all stages of education. 

Additionally, the lack of diverse tailored methods has led directly to a lack of diversity. The past modality for teaching mathematics has proven inadequate for our current educational needs. The author makes a very good points for individual structure and creativity in mathematics education to reach more students of all backgrounds and actually *teach* them, helping them build their own problem solving tools instead of just using cookie-cutter tests to "cram - test - forget". The author also covers assessment methodology and feedback for reinforcing learning and helping students retain the skills they've acquired.

The text is well annotated throughout and the chapter notes will provide readers with a wealth of further sources. It's layman accessible, but information dense and a niche subject (but of course STEM education and competency are absolutely vital to our continued existence on the planet).

Four and a half stars.  Definitely a good choice for public and school library acquisition, educators, and others involved in teaching mathematics. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Four-Alarm Homicide - House-Flipper Mystery #6

 

Four-Alarm Homicide is the sixth House-Flipper mystery by Diane Kelly. Released 23rd April 2024 by Macmillan on their St. Martin's imprint, it's 304 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats.  It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.

This is an engaging and well written cozy mystery with a full complement of quirky neighbors, old houses to fix-up-and-resell (a fire station in this case), plucky female amateur sleuth, requisite grumpy (and handsome) law enforcement officer, remodel house neighbor/murder victim, resultant investigations, and a cat who gets some 3rd person narrative alternating with his owner, protagonist house-flipper Whitney. The chapters are labeled with the primary PoV character, so they're easy to keep track of.

The writing is appealing and entertaining, very light and engaging. The language is clean, the violence is off page, there's nothing to horrify or scandalize. The denouement is well written and the book moves along at a good clip. It's an enjoyable and engaging light read. The plot is self contained in this volume and works well enough as a standalone.  It's exactly the kind of fun cozy to enjoy on a lazy weekend afternoon.

With 6 books extant in the series at the current time (it's an ongoing series), and a publishing schedule of roughly 1 series book/year, this would be a good choice for a long binge or buddy read.

Four stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes 

Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent

 

Shakespeare: The Man Who Pays the Rent is a wonderfully witty and well written memoir by Dame Judi Dench (with Brendan O'Hea) about her astounding richly lived life in the theatre. Released 23rd April 2024 by Macmillan on their St. Martin's Press imprint, it's 400 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. 

Ms. Dench is a titan of theatre. Instantly recognizable around the world, wonderfully witty, prodigiously talented, versatile, and so intelligent. This is a delightful book showcasing her experiences and talents and the collaborator has made the right choice in recording her reminiscences without generally getting in the way and "improving" things.  

The stories are written around her Shakespearean theatre work: Macbeth, Midsummer, Twelfth Night, Merchant, Hamlet, Coriolanus, As You Like it, Measure for Measure, Much Ado, Lear, Comedy of Errors, Richard II, Antony & Cleopatra, Cymbeline, All's Well, Henry V, Merry Wives, Richard III, Winter's Tale, Romeo & Juliet, and a vast number of niche musings and pithy observations which fall outside strict categories/plays.

Wonderful *wonderful* human being and a delightful read. The text is enhanced throughout by simple pen and ink sketches by the author herself.

Five strong stars. Definite must-have for public library acquisitions folks, theatre lovers, Shakespeare lovers, TV/movie aficionados, etc.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Oh, Bother: Winnie-the-Pooh is Befuddled, Too

Oh, Bother is a modern take on the beloved A.A. Milne characters from the 100 acre woods by Jennie Egerdie. Released 7th May 2024 by Hachette on their Running Press imprint, it's 96 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

This is part parody and a little bit of pastiche/homage featuring Pooh & co. dealing with life in the 21st century (urban sprawl encroaching on the 100 acre woods, therapy, global warming, threatening species extinction (bees) and more). Oh, bother indeed.

It's short, made up of 16 brief vignettes, and all featuring the beloved characters in various day-to-day situations. The text is enhanced by Ellie Hajdu's simple pen and ink sketches which are reminiscent of the E.H. Shepard originals without being too derivative (or actionable). 

Three and a half stars. Worth a look for library acquisitions personnel and potentially for gift giving purposes. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Mini Plein Air Painting with Remington Robinson: The art of miniature oil painting on the go in a portable tin

Mini Plein Air Painting with Remington Robinson is a well written and illustrated tutorial and technique guide for miniature oil painting by Remington Robinson. Due out 31st July 2024 from  Quarto on their Walter Foster imprint, it's 144 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats.

This is an unusually complete technique guide to mini-painting on the go with accessible takeaways for painters of all levels and experience. Painting on smaller surfaces is less intimidating than full size canvases, the materials are *much* more transportable in a self-contained metal tin (like Altoids), and less paint is used, allowing students to use better quality materials with richer, more saturated pigments, giving better results, encouraging more practice.

The author has a calm and inclusive voice in the tutorials, giving a good background on his own artistic process, inspiration, materials, setup, working techniques, and composition. The second part of the book (~78%) is taken up by the step-by-step tutorials, 12 in all. 

The subjects are varied and include both architectural and natural/landscape projects. They cover a variety of lighting and various perspective studies. It's a mixed bag and there are lessons for beginners to professional painters which can also be expanded to full size subjects. 

The danger is that this book will be dismissed in some areas as "niche" because of the miniature size and paint box setup; there is really good info and technique here for oil painters of all types and worth a look.

Five stars. It would be an excellent choice for public or school library acquisition, home studio, gift giving, and for painting and activity groups. Very good guide (not just for miniature painting). 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

A Body in the Cottage - West Wales Murder Mysteries #5

A Body in the Cottage is an engaging procedural and the 5th book in the West Wales mysteries by P.F. Ford. Released 5th July 2023 by Joffe, it's 315 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The earlier books in the series are also currently available on KU. 

This is a well written and engaging procedural mystery set in Wales. It's an ensemble cast, and the author does a very good job of rendering the characters distinctly and sympathetically. It's the fifth book in the series, but works perfectly well as a standalone; some moderate spoilers with character development and interrelationships will occur if read out of order. 

The plotting is straightforward, and although most readers will likely work out "whodunnit" before the denouement, it's still thoroughly readable and engaging. The language is PG, nothing overly rough or egregious, and no offputtingly graphic violence on-page. There are some unresolved plot elements at the resolution of this installment, but the next book is out soon...

It would make a nice buddy read, and with 5 books available (on KU) and a 6th due out in June 2024, it would also make a good series binge read. 

Four stars. Well written and worth a look, especially for fans of Pauline Rowson, Peter Robinson, and Peter James. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Snow Place for Murder - Mountain Lodge Mystery #3

Snow Place for Murder is a well written light cozy and the third Mountain Lodge Mystery by Diane Kelly. Released 24th Oct 2023 by Macmillan on their St. Martin's Press imprint, it's 304 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

The author has a good feel for pacing and this isolated suspect pool (a mountainside ski resort cut off in the middle of a blizzard) manages to be cozy and enjoyable while still doing a fine job of allowing readers to pit their wits against the author to arrive at the conclusion before the end. 

Mainly told from the third person PoV of the protagonist, Misty, a 50something divorced vacation lodge owner, there are short interludes featuring her cat Yeti as the central dramatis persona. The chapters have an identifying heading for which character is in focus for added clarity.

It's lightly humorous and easy to read. Although it's the third book in the series, the mystery is self contained in this volume and it works well as a standalone. The setting is beautifully rendered and evocative. With 3 books out at this point, it would make a good choice for a short binge or buddy read. 

Four stars. Fans of Cleo Coyle, Lynn Cahoon, and Amanda Flower will find a lot to like here. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

 

Spoon to be Dead - Shake Shop #3

 

Spoon to be Dead is the third Shake Shop storefront cozy mystery by Dana Mentink. Released 31st Oct 2023 by Poisoned Pen Press, it's 336 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

Readers love cozy mysteries, whatever form they take, library, bookmobile, shopfront small town amateur sleuths, professors turned investigators, we're not very picky. Animals are a plus. This one ticks a lot of boxes. Heading into the winter season (not a big earner for an ice cream shop in Oregon), owner Trinidad is planning a catered event on a riverboat to help the shop stay afloat when her loathsome ex begs her to help clear him of murder.

Despite being the third book in the series, the plot works perfectly well as a standalone and introduction to the ensemble cast of fun and eccentric characters. There are a number of appealing facets. The author is adept at plotting and the dialogue never felt overly clunky or convoluted; it's engaging, light, and readable. The story moved along at a good pace and despite the longer-than-average page count for a shopfront cozy, it never dragged or felt overwritten. Main character Trinidad is intelligent, driven, honest, and kind. She's also a small business owner and apparently a woman of color (but the author doesn't overemphasize the fact. Still subtle representation is welcome and important). 

The language is squeaky clean, nary a damn to be seen. There is no NSFW content and the denouement and resolution are well crafted and satisfying. It's a safe, comfort read -  light but satisfying. The author has even included a few recipes in the back of the book which look intriguing.

Four stars. Definitely one for the fans of small-town shopfront cozies. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Cinderwich

Cinderwich is an engaging southern gothic light horror novella by Cherie Priest. Due out 11th June 2024 from Apex Books, it's 184 pages and will be available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats.  It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. 

Creepily atmospheric, this is a modern ghost story with a nearly abandoned small town in Tennessee at the epicenter of a cold case murder. a young women found in a tree by a group of young girls. Drawn into investigating the mystery by a long ago family disappearance, two academics, a mentor and mentee, one related to her namesake who vanished before her birth, the other, the vanished woman's lover, try to find out if the Ellen found in the tree is their vanished loved one. 

The writing is restrained and the horror/supernatural elements are mostly understated, with one exception. There are red herrings aplenty, and some plot threads which fizzle out and are unresolved by the end of the book, but overall, the denouement is clear and satisfyingly resolved. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 5 hours 55 minutes and is beautifully narrated by Traci Odom.  She has a light voice which has a slightly breathy quality. She does a good job differentiating characters of a range of ages. She has a generic southwestern US accent which goes well with the read.

Four stars. Well written. Creepy, but not gory.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

 

Pride: A Seek-and-Find Celebration: Adventure Through the History of the Queer Community

Pride: A Seek-and-Find Celebration is an exuberantly illustrated seek-and-find book about celebrating Pride. Released 30th April by Quarto on their becker & meyer! imprint, it's 64 pages and is available in hardcover format.

The illustrations by Diego Blanco are intricate and colorful. On the right margin of each two page spread are numerous small details to hunt and find. Some of them are definitely well hidden and not at all trivial to locate. There are 11 scenes in all, and there are some common details (each contains a unicorn, somewhere!), but each also has unique features and history. 

There are a few issues with *ahem* liberties taken with historical versions of myths and legends (Ganymede for example), but overall it's a fun, informative, irreverent, campy "I-spy" type book.

Four stars. It would make a good choice for public library acquisition, gift giving, or home use. Content is appropriate for all-ages. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Mystery at Dunvegan Castle - Edinburgh Nights #3

The Mystery at Dunvegan Castle is the third SF mystery by T.L. Huchu.  Released 29th Aug 2023 by Macmillan on their Tor imprint, it's 400 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. 

Oddly paced, often almost twitchily frenetic in places, it's nevertheless very well written and engaging. It follows on from the first books in the series and, as such, would be a challenge to read as a standalone. Main character Ropa can communicate with (and indeed compel) spirits. She gets drawn into an artifact disappearance at the magical conference at which she's an intern. 

It's marketed as a YA fantasy, but it's perfectly good for an all ages (YA+, not for little kids) read. It has a huge cast, and readers who haven't kept track of the previous books should be prepared to flip back and forth some. The author/publisher have provided a handy dramatis personae list at the front of the book with characters/titles and relationships, and also principal settings, institutions, and other necessary info which will help. 

The world building is *stunning* and cohesive and wonderful. There is, however, quite a lot of reverse snobbery and making fun of traditional academia; Ropa is something of a Jack-the-Lad and seemingly has a malleable and very pragmatic moral code. It's LGBTQIA+ friendly, without being preachy, which is cool. The denouement and resolution are not finished in the book and strongly foreshadow the next book in the series.

Four stars. Very well written if quirky. There are three books extant at the moment, with the fourth due out in 4th quarter 2024. It would be an excellent choice for public library acquisition, home use, or as a long buddy read or book club series project. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Nervous Dragon: A Story About Overcoming Back-to-School Worries

The Nervous Dragon is an adorable illustrated board book for the youngest kids about conquering anxiety and back-to-school jitters. Due out 4th June 2024 from DK on their Children's imprint, it's 18 pages and will be available in board book and ebook formats.

Everyone is nervous about a big change. Little dragon Blaze is nervous about his first day at school. What will happen if everyone laughs at him or makes fun of his big secret. Even though his dad packs his lunch, his sister holds his hand on the way to school, and their teacher Miss Claw tries to make everyone feel welcome, he's still very nervous and unsure of himself. 

The story is reassuring, adorable, and full of appealing illustrations. The free verse is simple and easy to read. 

Five stars. It would make a good choice for public or school/classroom library, home use, or gift giving. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Diwali

Diwali is a simple, beautifully accessible and colorful introduction to the Hindu festival of lights written by Sital Gorasia Chapman. Due out 6th Aug 2024 from Quarto on their words & pictures imprint, it's 48 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

This is such a beautiful and learning rich book about the customs and history of Diwali. The book is a first person account told by young Sonali with her extended family. She shows how they prepare for Diwali, the food and clothing and family traditions, and more. There's a surprising amount of history and lots of good detail written in age-appropriate and accessible language. 

The illustrations by Darshika Varma are beautifully detailed and colorful and enhance the read very much. They're full of small bright details which invite readers to pause and take a closer look.

Five stars. This would be a superlative choice for public or classroom library, gift giving, or home use. The author/publisher have included discussion questions, crafts and recipes, and more information for further reading. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

This Allotment: Stories of Growing, Eating and Nurturing

 

This Allotment: Stories of Growing, Eating and Nurturing is a collection of 13 essays by writers on gardening, healing, and nature edited by Sarah Rigby. Due out 6th June from Elliott & Thompson, it's 187 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout. 

This is a collection of ruminations on gardening, by gardeners (who are also gifted writers). There's a deeply philosophical and meditative aspect to gardening, and these writers ruminate well and deeply on success, failure, growth, grief & loss, and what it all means in the larger picture.

This is not a book of gardening tips, there are no plans, no lists, and no direct gardening advice.  What the book has in abundance is humanity and humility and some humour and a lot of stories of persevering in the face of adversity. There's camaraderie as well, and some successes.

Four and a half stars. This is a book for reading in a thoughtful frame of mind. It would be an excellent choice for public library acquisition, allotment/gardening group library, home use, or gift giving.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Lost & Hound - "Sister" Jane #15

 

Lost & Hound is the 15th "Sister" Jane mystery by Rita Mae Brown. Released 24th Oct 2023 by Penguin Random House on their Ballantine imprint, it's 272 pages and available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

Like nearly all of Ms. Brown's oeuvre, this is a capably written, well told story that is character driven, neatly plotted, and fairly well paced. Fans of the author, who also enjoy her cozy Mrs. Murphy series as well as her more serious writing will find this series readable and engaging.  The Sister Jane books are cozies and full of the American foxhunting traditions and culture.  If you don't know anything about riding to hounds, you will after reading this book. This book, markedly shorter than the previous books, seems to be a bit more patchy, with a few seemingly distracting side trips, but overall it's still well told and entertaining. The author/publisher have also helpfully included a glossary and list of characters with short descriptions to help readers stay in the story.

The dialogue and writing are pitch perfect.  Typically for Ms. Brown, the writing is solidly comfortable and engaging.  Reading her books is almost like visiting with an old friend you haven't seen for a while; you just pick up where you left off the last time, even if you haven't seen them for ages.

This is a distinctly anthropomorphic mystery; but fair warning, if talking animals bug you, this probably isn't the series for you.  The book also does a superlative job of giving a glimpse into Virginia hospitality and etiquette and the riding subculture.

Four stars (mostly because even though American fox hunters just chase the foxes and don't kill them, it still distresses me and I'm always rooting for the foxes - the books are also *full* of upper class extremely wealthy people who often rub my proletariat heart the wrong way). Bonus points for the author's managing to make her characters ethnically diverse, and not just pasted on, either. Many of the characters have faced and worked through part of their tragic shared traumatic past, from slave times onward and at this point there seems to be more good-natured camaraderie than any festering resentment.

The actual murder mystery felt -distinctly- secondary to the fox hunting in this one, but still overall quite a solidly entertaining read. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers

The Fellowship of Puzzlemakers is a quirky, uplifting debut mystery by Samuel Burr. Released 9th April 2024 by Knopf Doubleday, it's 368 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.

This is a light character driven cozy with several entwined plot threads, cleverly wrought into an engaging whole. Main protagonist Clayton was a foundling, brought up by an eclectic collection of enigmatologists (puzzlemakers) in a nearly monastic setting. When he main benefactress passes away, he sets about following the clues left to him to unravel the ultimate puzzle of his life, how he came to be there and who he really is. 

There's an actual crostic style crossword and relevant clues in each of the chapters, which are solved through the course of the narrative. It's less of a mystery and more a character driven slice of life family history with a collection of intelligent oddly charismatic oddballs and their interactions with one another. It's written very visually, each scene precisely blocked out and described. It would take almost no work to transfer to the screen. Fans of oddly appealing dysfunctional shows with family themes (Arrested Development & Schitt's Creek for example) will likely enjoy this one.

Four stars. Appealing and offbeat (in a good way). 

 Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

 

A Bitter Remedy - Oxford Mysteries Series #1

A Bitter Remedy is the first book in a historical murder mystery series by Alis Hawkins. Released 25th March 2023 by Canelo, it's 368 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.

Academic mystery lovers are in for a treat. Set in the late 19th Century in Oxford, in and around the college, a firmly unrepentant young female academic chafes against the restrictions imposed on her because of her sex (female), her upbringing (unconventional), her cultural origin (Welsh), and her intellectual capacity (head and shoulders above the other (male) students). She has allies, but most of the time they seem to be thwarting her in their belief that she's her own worst enemy in terms of ruffling feathers to force progress. A Gordian knot, indeed, and she's the sword to cut through it. 

At its base, it's a historical murder mystery, woven around historical Oxford and the burgeoning forensic knowledge of the times. The story is told around a framework of actual historical events and characters; woven skillfully and seamlessly, so that it's not always clear what elements are fictive and which are real. 

The characters are very well rendered and believable. Non's passionate frustration is *palpable* and she's sympathetic and real. The plotting is tight and well paced, and the mystery itself is cleverly constructed and surprisingly complex and nuanced. It's full of pathos, for (unnecessarily inflexible) social constrictions, sex and gender roles, rigid class structure, and the casual cruelty inflicted on those who "didn't belong" or rebelled against the status quo. 

Four stars. Very strong. It would be a good choice for public library acquisition or home use. There are two books extant in the series thus far. It would make a nice buddy read or book club discussion. Definitely one that will appeal to fans of C.S. Harris, Andrea Penrose, and Anna Lee Huber. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

From a Far and Lovely Country: No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency #24

 

From a Far and Lovely Country is the 24th No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency novel by Alexander McCall Smith. Released 31st Oct 2023 by Knopf Doubleday on their Pantheon imprint, it's 256 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out from the same pubisher in 4th quarter 2024. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links.

This is such a fun, dependable series. Mma Ramotswe is, again, required to use her formidable wit and creativity to sort out several thorny problems and heal a few hearts (and smack some sense into a few heads who really should have behaved themselves along the way).  The disparate threads entwine to a satisfying and warm, if bittersweet, conclusion, and the overall effect is of a long and unhurried chat with an old friend.

It's not necessary to have read the books in order, however, the large changes which occur (marriage, family relations, etc) will be obvious if they're read out of order.

Especially with the desperate struggles, illnesses, upheavals, and sadness which seem universal in the world right now, this series and these characters are a balm to the soul. Wonderful.

Four and a half stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Beneath the Swirling Sky - The Restorationists #1

 

Beneath the Swirling Sky is the first book in the Restorationists middle grade fantasy series by Carolyn Leiloglou. Released 12th Sept 2023 by WaterBrook & Multnomah, it's 304 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. 

The author does a good job of blending magic and fantasy with real life art and history. Restorationists are able to travel into (and through) paintings, and affect the things they find there. It's a well written and engaging middle grade book, and as such, there are some plot elements which most adults will probably question, such as Uncle Leo letting the kids go haring off to rescue Lili themselves, but these moments are relatively few. The world building and fantasy elements (traveling into paintings, the shadow organizations, and the characters themselves) are quite intricately detailed and fascinating.

The incidental art, by Vivienne To is beautifully rendered and adds a lot to the read. 

The publisher is a Christian imprint, and there are elements of Christian faith in the story, but they don't overpower the story and there is little proselytizing (but the elements are there).

Four stars. It would be a good choice for public library acquisition, home use, or gift giving.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Mystery Writer

 

The Mystery Writer is a standalone literary mystery thriller by Sulari Gentill. Released 19th March 2024 by Sourcebooks on their Poisoned Pen Press imprint, it's 400 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.  

This is a competently written and plotted mystery featuring an author who fled a career path as an attorney to become a full-time writer. There are some aspects of the story which will require the reader to bring a hefty suspension of disbelief including conspiracy theories and reasonable (?) motives for murder. Ms. Gentill does (as always) a stellar job of characterization and the interplay between the adult siblings in the story are nuanced and very well rendered. 

It's a long book for the genre. The middle third of the book felt disproportionately long and tended to drag somewhat, and the ending was unequal to the task of tying the whole into a cohesive narrative. The choice of alternating PoV was also quite jarring and disconnected and didn't help the story coalesce into a coherent unit.  

Three stars. Probably worth a look for particular fans of the author. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Faerie Tales from the White Forest Omnibus Vol 2 - Faerie Tales from the White Forest #4-6

Faerie Tales from the White Forest Omnibus Vol 2 is a three volume collection (books 4-6) from a continuing fantasy series by Danika Dinsmore. Released in this edition on 24th Aug 2023 by indie publisher Hydra House, it's 636 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. 

Creative, immersive, and intricate, this is an epic story in (currently) 6 parts. Marketed as a coming of age fantasy for middle grades, it is more YA/NA in scope and length than a children's book. The world building and hierarchy of faerie creatures is impressive and the books contain a wide variety of characters. 

This volume follows on the first three books (included in volume one) and readers who choose to pick up the second volume without having read the first will be at a distinct disadvantage; it doesn't work well as a standalone. 

Four stars. Well built and entertaining fantasy.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

The Sunset Years of Agnes Sharp - Agnes Sharp Mysteries #1

The Sunset Years of Agnes Sharp is the first book in a quirky dark comedy murder mystery by Leonie Swann. Originally published in German in 2020, this English language translation from Soho Press on their Soho Crime imprint is 360 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out from the same publisher 30th July 2024. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links throughout.

Octogenarian sleuths who are, themselves, pretty dodgy (they're hiding a body in the garden shed), trying to solve a murder and wrap it up with their own body-disposal problem. The author does a good job of skirting the line between dark comedy without falling too far on the wrong side of being ageist or in really poor taste. 

The story features the residents of a village house-share, disparate, cranky, elderly, but not necessarily benign. It's sort of like a golden years version of  Clue or Knives Out and fans of edgy(ish) dark comedic mysteries will be in raptures.

The translation work in this edition was provided by Amy Bojang, and it's seamless and not at all intrusive. She's done a good job with the scansion in the translation and it's smooth and totally readable.

Four stars. There are three volumes in the series at this point, this one currently available, a second book Agnes Sharp and the Trip of a Lifetime, available (in translation) in September 2024, and the third as yet only available in German. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

Rebel Bakes: 80+ Deliciously Creative Cakes, Bakes and Treats For Every Occasion

 

Rebel Bakes is a wonderfully irreverent, very high energy, and beautifully exuberant book of baked cakes and goodies by George Hepher. Due out (outside the UK) 11th June 2024 from Hachette on their Greenfinch imprint, it's 224 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

The author is very chatty and the writing is happy and *fun*. The non-recipe parts feel like a conversation with a good pal (over cocktails) who really knows about and is enthusiastic (in a good way) about something. He has learned or developed competency with the techniques and the recipes included in the volume are impressive, showy, and colorful. Very high wow factor. 

This is not an understated gran-approved repertoire. There are loads of chocolate laden treats, rainbow stuff, cheesecake variations and the glazes, sauces, and caramels to go along with them.

The actual book is logically arranged: an intro covering the basics (he has a lot of good info here, don't skip it), basics (caramels, sauces, drips), tray bakes, melt & pour type creations (he calls them Hob Jobs which made me snort), cookies & tarts, after dinner treats, and cakes (lots of *spectacular* very tall cakes here). Recipes are written with a fun description and often a background origin, ingredients in a bullet list, and step by step directions. Ingredient measures are given in standard metric with imperial (American) measurements by weight in parentheses. 

The photos are a standout of the collection. The author is a social media celebrity and -all- the items are beautifully styled and all have a lot of wow-factor. Instagram perfect in other words. Spelling and vernacular are British English throughout, but won't pose a problem in context for readers living elsewhere.

It shouldn't need to be specifically stated out loud, but here we are. The book is campy, fun, inclusive, and LGBTQIA+ friendly. 

Five stars. It would be a great selection for public library acquisition, home use, or gift giving. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

Project Mushroom: A Modern Guide to Growing Fungi

Project Mushroom is a well written, graphically attractive monograph on the culture of fungi by Jodie Bryan and Lorraine Caley, under the auspices of the Royal Botanical Gardens at Kew. Released 7th May 2024 by Quarto on their Frances Lincoln imprint, it's 192 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

The authors are experts at growing mushrooms on locally sourced substrate. They provide mushroom spawn in kits and dowels to home growers along with FAQ and support to help their customers succeed with growing projects. The book does a good job of showing interested newcomers how to go from wanting to grow mushrooms to actually succeeding and harvesting fungi to use. 

The book starts with an introduction and scientifically accurate (but not overwhelming) history of humans and mushroom life cycles.  The second, most substantial part of the book contains tutorial projects for indoor and outdoor cultivation and a dizzying array of beautiful mushrooms. The culture tutorials are surprisingly nicely aesthetic, especially the indoor ones, and look more like pampered houseplants than strictly utilitarian culinary items. 

Four and a half stars. This is definitely a niche gardening sideline, but would make an excellent choice for public library acquisition, home library, self-sufficiency and smallholding folks, and for gift giving. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes

Noodles, Rice, and Everything Spice: A Thai Comic Book Cookbook

 

Noodles, Rice, and Everything Spice is an appealing, clever, and useful cookbook in comic form by Christina De Witte and Mallika Kauppinen. Released 7th May 2024 by Penguin Random House on their Ten Speed Press imprint, it's 208 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. 

The art is very simple but appealing and fun, full of energy and whimsy, and at the same time ingredients and prep methods are clear enough to follow easily. The text is direct and unvarnished and the authors have included an intro on their meeting and friendship leading up to this collaborative effort. Despite coming from disparate backgrounds, there's fertile common ground and the "origin story" is well worth a read. 

The recipes themselves are arranged thematically: tools and supplies, ingredients (and a tutorial for shopping at Asian stores which was helpful and fun), snacks & starters, noodles, rice dishes, soups & curries, desserts & drinks, and staples and accompaniments. Most of the standard recipes which readers can think of are included in some form here. 

Recipe ingredients are written in an illustrated bullet list, followed by step by step instructions. Ingredients are given with imperial (American) units, not metric. There's no nutritional info included. Many of the ingredients will be available at any well stocked grocery store in North America, but a significant proportion of the ingredients will require a trip to an Asian market or grocery store. 

Thai food is a brilliant fusion of salt & sweet, spicy & savory; really an explosion of flavor, and this book captures an honestly surprising amount of variety and breadth. Don't let the comic format come in the way, this is a *real* cookbook, made by authors who are familiar with and experienced at cooking the cuisine. 

As an aside, the authors' family histories are fascinating and varied and sensitively told - they've both moved extensively, both live in Europe now, one is from a varied (multi-ethnic) background, the other has a Finnish husband and Finnish/Thai son. The experiences aren't hammered on or waved around, but they are warmly and positively mentioned and representation is important. One reason they connected (giving rise to the cookbook collaboration) is Ms. De Witte's wish to connect to her Thai roots and learn Thai as a young adult (Ms. Kauppinen is a teacher and Thai + Finnish tutor). 

Five stars. A solid cookbook. It would be an excellent choice for public or school library acquisition, home use, and gift giving purposes.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Archibald Finch and the Curse of the Phoenix

Archibald Finch and the Curse of the Phoenix is a very dark but beautifully written crossworlds fantasy novel by Michel Guyon. Released 26th Sept 2023 by Andrews McMeel, it's 464 pages and is available in hardcover, audio formats, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

Following closely on the first book in the series, this is a complex sequel. For that reason, it's not recommended as a standalone read. The author does a superlative job of character development - they really live and breathe and the world building is unparalleled. There's an impressive amount of real history and knowledge woven into the story - much of the plot turns on Leonardo da Vinci's life, sketchbooks, and wonderful inventions.

This is a surprisingly dark book, and although the target audience is supposed to be 9-12 years (Lexile 860L), prereading or skimming by an adult, especially for library acquisitions, is highly recommended. It's not a book for most kids. Not even in a R.L. Stine creepy/scary way...

Four stars (with the above cautions). 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The SalviSoul Cookbook: Salvadoran Recipes and the Women Who Preserve Them

 

The SalviSoul Cookbook is a beautifully illustrated and well written collection of recipes and ode to the culture and culinary legacy of El Salvador by Karla Tatiana Vasquez. Released 30th April 2024 by Penguin Random House on their Ten Speed Press imprint, it's 288 pages and is available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

This is not just a satisfyingly diverse collection of delicious recipes and cookbook of El Salvadoran foods, but also a collection of memories and stories of the diaspora which the author collected (along with the recipes) from her relatives and acquaintances. Although outstanding as a cookbook, it's also full of personal family photos and stories. 

The recipes are arranged thematically: introduction (with a tutorial guide to ingredients, oils, ), accompaniments, essentials, soups, main dishes, drinks, and sweet snacks. The recipes (and text) are written in English, but all the chapters and recipe names are provided in Spanish. 

Each recipe has an introduction and background info, ingredients in a bullet list, and step by step prep and cooking directions. Ingredient measures are given in imperial (American) units. Some items will be generally available at any well stocked grocery store in North America, but many ingredients have few or no substitutes and will require access to an international foods store or specialty stockist. Where substitutions are available, the author is very good about providing the info. Most recipes are accompanied by photos.

Five stars. This would be an excellent choice for public library acquisition, home use, or for gift giving purposes. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Penguin Book of Pirates - Penguin Classics

The Penguin Book of Pirates is a well curated collection of historical accounts, reminiscences, studies, and essays on pirates edited by Katherine Howe. Released 30th April 2024 by Penguin on their Classics imprint, it's 400 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook fomats. 

Pirates have fascinated the public and been romanticized for centuries. Many were businessmen or women (more or less), some were ruthless psychopaths, but nearly all were larger than life leaving behind legacies of lost treasure, adventures, and legends. This book collects stories and historical accounts from the extant records in more or less chronological order from the 17th-19th centuries.

Records include letters, contemporary accounts, historical records, and some few excerpts from literature (fictional or based loosely on actual history). The editor has done a good job with the annotations throughout and the chapter notes will provide readers with many hours of further reading. The publisher/author have also included a cross referenced index and suggested reading lists.

Four and a half stars. Precisely fulfills the stated purpose efficiently and very well. It's a solid reference, and would be a great choice for public or school library acquisition, home reference, and possibly gift-giving to fans of nautical history. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The Globemakers: The Curious Story of an Ancient Craft

The Globemakers is a layman accessible and fascinating monograph on the art and craft of globemaking by Peter Bellerby. Released 17th Oct 2023 by Bloomsbury, it's 240 pages and is available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

This is a fascinating book, full of background information (ancient and current) on globemaking. It's also a personal story with lots of the author's recollections on setting himself the task to learn (seemingly on a whim) how to make a globe which morphed into a demand for high end artisanal globes giving rise to his workshop in London (and soon expanding to NYC). 

This could've been a dry-as-dust recitation, but it's anything but, being infused by the author's warmth and gentle self-deprecating humor. There are anecdotes and history from ancient times to relatively recent modern times. The book is also lavishly illustrated in color with photographs of the Bellerby studio and the artists working there to facsimile documents and drawings from ancient maps and books. 

Four and a half stars. Engaging and gorgeously illustrated, this would be a very good choice for public or school library acquisition, home use, or for gift giving purposes.  

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

A Sorceress Comes to Call

A Sorceress Comes to Call is a delightful fantasy fable by T. Kingfisher. Due out 6th Aug 2024 from Macmillan on their Tor imprint, it's 336 pages and will be available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

As always, brilliantly written and transportive, the author writes compellingly and so very well. This is a fairy tale in the classic style, but inside an original story framework. Evil sorcerous "mother", magical white horse, good vs. evil with real tension and some nail biting plot elements, there are moments of despair in the story and a few really scary moments before the denouement and resolution. 

It's a standalone story, and self contained without any suggestion that there are plans to revisit the characters or setting in future. 

Five stars. Perfect choice for public library, home use, or (the special foil stamped hardcover edition) gift giving. There are instances of body horror, animal death, murder and magic, some fairly graphic, so sensitive readers should be aware. There are also geese which play a fairly central secondary role; anatidaephobics should bear this in mind.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Gathering Boards

Gathering Boards is a is a well written and beautifully illustrated guide to charcuterie and cheese boards by Sarah Zimmerman Tuthill. Due out 4th June 2024 from Rowman & Littlefield on their Globe Pequot imprint, it's 152 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

The publisher's backlist nonfiction is extensive and very high quality. They're really good with illustrated how-to guides and this one is no exception. The debut author presents a comprehensive general introduction full of basic instructions on how to make boards, how to choose ingredients, how to serve them and more. The introduction is followed by seasonal specialty servings (Winter, Spring, Summer, and Fall) full of appropriate and attractive food, well curated and presented. 

The book is full to bursting with useful tables and choices; showing what cheese goes with which fruit and showing readers how to pair ingredients to show them at their best. For timid readers who might be generally fairly clueless about *what* will complement *which* items, and how to style the foods most attractively, the information contained here will give enough confidence and instruction to make an educated choice as far as arrangement and choices.

Each of the specific board tutorials in the book contains an introduction, ingredient choices, and a short assembly list. The photos in the book are large, high contrast, and in color, without hands or anything in the way. There are numerous tutorial photos on folding, slicing, and preparing ingredients to show them at their best.

Many of the ingredients will be easy to find at any large supermarket or box-store. Some of the more specialized cheeses and charcuterie will require mail order or access to a large urban area, or specialist grocer. Serving suggestions are beautifully styled and attractive (it's the high point of the book). 

Five stars. This would make a great choice for library acquisition, for the home cook, or possibly as a thoughtful hostess gift. 

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Dead on Target

 

Dead on Target is the 34th village cozy featuring Agatha Raisin, created by M.C. Beaton and ghost written by R.W. Green. Released 19th Sept 2023 by Macmillan on their Minotaur imprint, it's 256 pages and available in hardcover, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out in June 2024 from the same publisher. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links and references throughout.

This is a such a perennial beloved series that it needs no introduction. Irascible but almost certainly good on the inside Agatha, is drawn into a *situation* again when a harmless trip to the local village fete sees her stumble across a local landowner with his pants around his ankles and inconveniently and permanently pierced by an arrow to the chest. 

The cast of returning characters are there (including her earlier nemesis DCI Wilkes). The fun of the series comes from Agatha's simmering annoyance with nearly everyone's incompetence apart from her own. 

The series has continued despite the author's sad departure in late 2019. It's always dicey whenever a very long running series is overtaken by another author, but in this case, Mr. Green does an impressive job of capturing the characters and the spirit of the story respectfully and more or less seamlessly.

Four stars. It works perfectly well as a standalone, but as always it would make a superlative choice for a very long binge or buddy read with other volumes in the series.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

The God of Monkey Science: People of Faith in a Modern Scientific World

The God of Monkey Science is an interesting and layman accessible monograph on the intersections of science and how people of faith "make it all fit together" presented by Dr. Janet Kellogg Ray. Released 10th Oct 2023 by Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing, it's 248 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. 

The author writes well and eloquently on the antiscience messaging rampant in the (American) evangelical movement. Evangelical people are significantly more likely to reject evolution, earth science (ancient earth), and epidemiology and vaccine science, as witnessed, with devastating consequences during the pandemic. 

She's a trained scientist and examines (and does a pretty good job of finding some common ground on) some of the more contentious points familiar to folks who lived through covid in an age of social media. She's intelligent and comprehensible and, like many scientists, saddened and perplexed by the rampant rise of anti-science feeling. 

Mostly she does a good job of saying "science and religion answer *different* questions and aren't necessarily mutually exclusive. People of faith *can* be (and are) scientists. They can co-exist peacefully.

Although it's not a rigorous scientific work, and is perfectly accessible to laypeople, it is well annotated throughout, and the chapter notes and bibliography will give readers a wealth of further opportunity for study.

Four stars. Well done and worthwhile. It would be a good choice for public library acquisition and home use.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.