Black Appalachia Race, Place, and Identity

 

Black Appalachia  Race, Place, and Identity is an anthology of essays examining the impact of socio-economic and cultural Appalachia on black identity and culture. Due out 22nd Sept. 2026 from the University of Kentucky's academic press, it's 360 pages and will be 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 throughout. 

This is a companion volume and follow up to Blacks in Appalachia (Turner & Campbell), published in 1985. It's a wide ranging, academic and sobering look at the special sociological challenges in Appalachia and the nuances of being a person of color there. 

Although it's an academic publication, it's generally written in layman accessible language. It's meticulously annotated throughout and the chapter notes are likely worth the price of the book for that alone. The book's essays are arranged thematically: Race & Place, Migration & Memory, Biography, Discrimination & Segregation, and Poetry Photography & Prose. Additionally, the foreword by Dr. Ronald D. Eller, and preface by Dr. William H. Turner (co-author of Blacks in Appalachia), provide overarching context for the individual essays. 

It's not always an easy read, but it's surprisingly upbeat and positive in places (culture, music, literature, resilience, Black joy). 

Five stars, the essays are widely varying, but generally significant and accessible. It would be an excellent choice for public or post-secondary school library acquisition, for home reference, or as support text/resource for classroom study for sociology, race studies, and allied fields. 

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

The Isle of Mull Murders - The Scottish Highland Killings #2

 

The Isle of Mull Murders is the second book in a gritty Scottish procedural by Daniel Sellers. Released 12th Sept. 2026 by Boldwood, it's 266 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 throughout.  For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other book in the series is also currently available on KU. 

This is a brooding, windswept, and very atmospheric novel set in a remote area of Scottish highlands. DI Anna Vaughan and her colleagues are called in after a series of increasingly threatening vandalisms on an estate.  The irascible estate owner Robert is singularly unhelpful and obsctructive, sending them away without a resolution. They're called back after a murder, and set to untangling the convoluted hidden stories of the estate's residents. 

It's a nice classic mystery setup: isolated setting, no help immediately available, limited suspect pool, and -everyone- is hiding -something-. The writing is "Higland Noir" and while it's certainly not derivative, fans of Marion Todd, Bill Kitson, and Alex Finlay will enjoy this one as well. It's the second book in the series, but works fine as a standalone.  The denouement and resolution are satisfying and well constructed, albeit bleak. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 7 hours 43 minutes and is capably read by Karen Bartke. She has a warm well modulated alto voice in this read and does a good job of delineating the male and female characters of a range of ages and accents (most Scottish). Sound and production quality are high throughout the read.  

Four and a half stars. Uncommonly good. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition, as well as for a binge/buddy read. 

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

 

The Dog Park Murders - Dog Park Murders #1

 

The Dog Park Murders is the first in a new small-town mystery/romance series by Angela Barker. Released 25th Aug 2026 by Penguin Random House on their Harlequin 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 throughout. 

Everything dogs. Wall to wall dogs (it -is- called the dog park murders). MC Juliette is an animal groomer, a bit hapless but always upbeat. It aims for humorous, and sometimes gets close, but it's more cutesy than actually funny. There's some rough language (a few "f-bombs") and some sexual innuendo, but overall fairly tame. It's got proximity romance grumpy+sunshine, and amateur sleuthing (the murder victim is found in the dog park strangled with one of Juliette's custom dog leashes), utterly incompetent local police, and a satisfying if expected denouement and resolution. There's some spicy bits, so possibly not entirely safe for work/commute read. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 9 hours 31 minutes and is read by Carly Bloom. She has a warm alto voice and a neutral midatlantic generic accent, and she does a fair job with the dialogue and characters in a range of both male and female voices. Sound and production quality are very high throughout the read.  

Three and a half stars. The second book in the series is due out in late 1st quarter 2027 from the same publisher. 

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

Lost and Found: A Compassionate Guide to Homeownership

 

Lost and Found is a genuinely entertaining, engaging, hopeful, supportive, and reassuring guide to home-ownership written by Mercury Stardust. Released 15th Sept 2026 by DK, it's 240 pages and is 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 throughout. 

With millions of subscribers across her social media platforms, Mercury (The Trans Handy Ma'am) is popular and practical. She has a charming and humorous way of making home repair tasks accessible and do-able. This book (her second) is logically arranged, but there's more of a memoir feel, with lots of personal anecdotes and glimpses into her home and family life. The chapters move from house hunting, through the buying process, moving, basic tools (and how to use them), to ownership and maintenance, including a myriad of stuff like utilities, weatherization, special needs for older homes, and a lot more. The advice is digestible and the info is broken up into small pieces, with salient bullet points written into highlighted text boxes throughout. 

Graphically, it's appealingly illustrated in color with sketches (some in B&W), which were drawn by the author's spouse, Ari (ZZ) Gochberg, showing them and their fur-kids (3 kitties) being wholesome and living their best lives. It was nice to get a little glimpse into their lives, but it's not only a memoir. The book is *full* of good advice for homeownership. Additionally, there are numerous QR codes scattered throughout which also link to videos and online resources. 

Five stars. This would be an excellent choice for public or home library acquisition, and additionally, it would be a -great- housewarming present for kids flying the nest into their own places or for new homeowners. Really worthwhile book.  

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes (but will buy copies of this excellent book for gift giving, not joking).  

The Pantomime Killer - DI Jack Dawes #14

 

The Pantomime Killer is the 14th Jack Dawes village mystery by Frances Lloyd. Due out 7th Oct 2026 from Joffe Books, it's 166 pages and will be 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 throughout.  For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book will be included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series are also currently available on KU. 

This is a moderately gritty ensemble procedural with DI Jack Dawes and his team racing to stop attacks occurring at a local theatrical production pantomime which seem to be targeting a famous TV actress hired in specifically for the panto production. Jack's wife and her friends are also in the picture, finding connections through their social contacts and local gossip which the police miss. 

The language is very clean and there's no sexual content. The violence isn't terribly graphic, but it *is* completely over the top. Readers need to bring a strong suspension of disbelief. It's a very short book, but the denouement and resolution are self contained in this volume. It's #14 in the series, so it would make a great very long binge/buddy read. The episodes are short. Although there are lots of books in the series, they work find as standalones, with the codicil that the returning characters' relationships have developed over the course, so some minor spoilers should be expected. 

Three and a half stars. 

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

TABLET WEAVING STARTER WORKSHOP

 

Tablet Weaving Starter Workshop is a generative AI tragedy by Alexander Whelan. Released 5th July 2026, it's 136 pages and is available in paperback format. 

There are NO illustrations, diagrams, or helpful clearly explained directions. The cover is AI and for anyone even remotely familiar with actual tablet weaving, is entirely impossible (the upper left corner tablets are threaded through one another), additionally, the colors of the woven band do not in any way correspond to the warping of the cards. 

SAVE YOUR MONEY. There's an active helpful community on social media who are willing and able to help readers start and continue this ancient craft. 

One star. Do not be tempted. For readers or acquisitions personnel who are looking for resources and want books, seek out Peter Collingwood, Karisto Maikki & Pasanen Mervi, or Silvia Ungerechts. All of those are USEFUL classic and resource rich books for starting (and continuing) tablet weaving. 

Incidentally, this "author" has numerous other "books" on various topics. They're all AI generated and all shameless cash grabs. 

 

Female Indigenous Heroes - 51 North American Women from the 1800s to Today

 

Female Indigenous Heroes is a well written and researched illustrated collection of short biographies of Indigenous women luminaries collected and curated by Dr. Katrina M. Phillips. Released 28th July 2026 by Callisto on their Kids imprint, it's 224 pages and is available in hardcover, paperback, audio, and ebook formats. 

This combines an impressive array of native women across the entire spectrum of the arts, science, politics, law, history, and the humanities. Each short biography is 2-3 pages with a painted portrait, lifetime dates, and historical bio.  

The author has also included useful appendices, including a glossary and short resource bibliography for further reading. 

Five stars. Giving credit to competent, brilliant, accomplished Indigenous women increases knowledge and exposure to a group of people who have been marginalized unfairly. Representation is so important. This would be an excellent choice for public, school, or home library acquisition, or for gift giving. 

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

Quest of the Drowned Lands - Legendary allies #2

 

Quest of the Drowned Lands is the second book in the Legendary Allies series for middle grade readers by Linda Trinh. Due out 22nd Sept 2026 from Annick Press, it's 172 pages and will be available in hardcover, paperback, and ebook formats. 

Set in a fantasy world inspired by Vietnamese folklore and culture, young hero Riverwise Cam is still trying to figure out their place in the world as one of a group of generational heroes who protect their world with legendary animal allies. There are themes of insecurity, isolation, cultural differences, jealousy, destructive competition, and strength through cooperation. Representation is important and this series is fun to read and shows the differences in the characters' lives and background as a strength and not a detraction. 

Without being strident, there are some nice inclusive and supportive themes in the book. Cam is gender neutral, reflected by the pronoun "they/them/their", and it's normal and accepted (which it should be). There's a fair bit of non-judgemental open and honest discussion about mental health and struggles. 

The book is enhanced throughout by incidental illustrations beautifully rendered by illustrator Quynh Anh Nguyen. Although quite simple stylistically, they're full of small details and colorful movement. 

Four stars. It would be a great choice for public or school library acquisition, for home and classroom use. 

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

 

Write a Novel in 100 Days: The Busy Writer's Guide to Finishing Your Book Fast

 

Write a Novel in 100 Days is a practical pep-talk for writers and other creatives for gearing up and *producing* work to a time-schedule by Kim Purcell. Due out 22nd Sept 2026 from Penguin Random House on their Clarkson Potter/Ten Speed Press imprint, it's 320 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 and references throughout.

For all aspiring (and current/blocked/would-be) authors, this is a resplendent collection of actionable lists, practical tips, and blockade sweeping advice on how to carve out *effective* writing time, create more, with fewer delays and excuses. 

The chapters are arranged logically and thematically: 10 tips to finish your book (lots of consistency work here), idea development (days 1-4), characterization & world building (days 5-8), story architecture (9-12), beginning (hook, description, theme, etc days 13-16), tension and other groundwork), Act 2 (days 29-56, lots of *specific* to-do lists here, developing and refining), Act 3 (days 57-84, lots of lists for refining, tension, climax), Act 4 (days 85-100), cleanup, editing, and next steps. 

Very organized, and very accessible. It's aimed at writers, but there's LOTS of good specific advice here for other work and creative tasks, and presentations. 

Five stars. This would be an excellent choice for public, school, or home library acquisition, or for ancillary/support text for writing groups or classroom instruction. 

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

The Spellbound Cottage - Spellbound #1

 

The Spellbound Cottage is a charming and whimsical series opener by debut indie author Genevieve K. Thomas. Due out 5th Oct 2026, it's 336 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 and references throughout.For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.

This is a very sweet, (mostly) low-stakes, relaxing, and fun romantasy. Bea is a bit of a buttoned-up, type-A personality, with a newly minted art degree, a huge to-do list, an inheritance from her grandmother, and coming off a recent heartbreak, without a whole lot of firm plans for her near (or far) future. She buys an abandoned cottage with the plan of fixing it up and living there. As it turns out, that's going to be a lot more of a challenge than she first imagined, given the place is literally falling down, with a large oak tree growing up through it like a conjoined twin full of squirrels, a grumpy enchanted/sentient garden gate, a pixie infestation, and an actual ghost in the attic. 

There's lots of warmth, found family, and a proximity romance, along with magic, cooking, and enough baking to feed an army. There are also hearth dragons, and they are as cute and charming as expected. 

It might err on the side of too saccharine, but for readers who really enjoy sweet, low stress romantasy, it's mostly perfect. The writing and descriptive prose are well done, and the book is peppered throughout with cute incidental art full of small to-do lists and little sketches.  

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 10 hours 48 minutes and is read by Roisin Rankin. She has a breathy very youthful voice and does a good job with a number of accents and a range of ages, most notably very competent with handyman Angus' Irish accent and a number of fantasy-standard generic British ones. Sound and production quality are high throughout the read.  

Four stars. It would be a good choice for public or home library, or for a nice buddy read. Clean language and content. (Safe for work/commute reading). 

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

A Field Guide to Death and Deceit - Harry & Emma #2

 

A Field Guide to Death and Deceit is the second Harry & Emma mystery by Dr. Michelle L. Cullen. Due out 15th Sept 2026 from Crooked Lane Books, it's 336 pages and will be 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 and references throughout.

This is a well written and engaging amateur sleuth murder mystery featuring an anthropologist and his bonus-daughter/former caregiver, who's a smart and capable registered nurse and an assistant in his international aid work. The characterizations and interplay between the characters have the starring role. There's a lot of verisimilitude in the way the author depicts the very human, often flawed characters, and does so with warmth and compassion. The plotting and mystery are a little patchy, blending multiple law enforcement agencies stepping on one another's toes, loads of betrayals and double crossing, huge real estate scams and money laundering schemes, thieves falling out with one another, and a graphically violent farm-implement death which sets the whole thing in motion. 

Although it's the second book in the series, it works well as a standalone, and the story is self-contained in this volume. There are some character developments in this book which will be minor spoilers for the first book if they're read out of order, but nothing major. 

Four stars. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition, or for a short binge/buddy read. 

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

The Thief and the Labyrinth - World's End Bureau

 

The Thief and the Labyrinth is the 6th (and final?) book in the World's End Bureau historical paranormal mystery series by Alys Clare. Due out 6th Oct 2026 from Severn House, it's 256 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. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The other books in the series are also currently available on KU. 

This is an engaging and very well written paranormal historical mystery series. The characterizations are deep and realistically portrayed and the relationship between MCs Lily and Felix continues to develop, but isn't center stage in this missing persons/runaway daughter case. The paranormal aspects are also interesting, not overly outré or ridiculous. 

The climax and denouement are satisfying and complete. If this -is- the final book, it's ended satisfactorily, with most of the overarching plot elements resolved. 

Four stars. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition, or for a solid binge/buddy read. 

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

The Devil in Oxford - Ruby Vaughn #3

 

The Devil in Oxford Hall is the third Ruby Vaughn historical mystery by Jess Armstrong. Released 5th Nov 2025 by Macmillan on their St. Martin's Press imprint, it's 336 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 throughout.  

This is a creepy/atmospheric mystery set in the interwar period. It's a fusion of genres: mystery, dark broody gothic tale, even a dash of romance, and it manages to coalesce them into a thoroughly enjoyable read. It's surprisingly cohesive, well constructed, and with a moving gravitas.

Although it's not derivative at all, fans of cerebral academic mysteries will find a lot to like here. There are hints of Shirley Jackson, Daphne du Maurier, and Diane Setterfield, though again, it's its own creature and should be appreciated as such.  The artifacts, rare books, and antiquities are interesting and give a nice continuity to the series. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 10 hours 39 minutes and is very capably narrated by Emma Love. She has a beautifully nuanced voice and manages a credible job of the extremely varied accents (American, West Country, RP, etc) with no discernable hiccups in the dialogue. Her voice is light with bright tonals and isn't obtrusive at all, letting the prose take center stage. It's a challenging read, and she does a great job.

Four stars. Well worth a look. The fourth book in the series is due out 4th quarter 2026 from the same publisher. This would be a good choice for public library acquisition, buddy read, or bookclub selection. Although it's the 3rd in the series, it works well enough as a standalone.

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

 

A Judgement of Powers - Inheritance of Magic #3

 

 

A Judgement of Powers is the third Inheritance book by Benedict Jacka. Released 4th Nov 2025 by Penguin Random House on their Berkley Ace imprint, 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 throughout. 

The author is talented and prolific. He knows how to write engagingly, and the world building here is very different from the Iron Druid chronicles. The story reads more YA(ish) than his other work, however, there are definitely non-YA descriptions and themes here, so sensitive readers should tread carefully. Happily Hobbes is back and grumpy and complaining, and is a great character in his own right (spinoff short stories, please, Mr. Jacka). Additionally and importantly, MC Stephen, who is basically an everyman James Bond with magic, now has a support "Q", his best friend Colin who is an appealingly nerdy sidekick who's also a dab hand with "real world" science he uses for good, dreaming up sigils with modern armour and weapons solutions, enhanced with drucraft.

That being said, there is also humor here, clever descriptive prose, nods to the sort of bureaucracy based urban fantasy that brings Stross, O'Malley, Aaronovitch, Holt and the other boys in the band to mind, and further explanations of a really good magic system being expanded and refined. Mr. Jacka has good comedic timing and there are several snort-worthy zingers scattered throughout the book. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 9 hours 44 minutes, and is capably narrated by series narrator Will Watt. He has a well modulated classically trained voice and does a range of regional accents of both genders well and seamlessly. His cut crystal RP voices for some of the Ashford reps are also slyly humorous, taking pokes at them aping the upper class they represent. Sound and production quality are very high throughout the read.

Four stars. Given the publisher, this will be on most library acquisition lists already. It's a solid follow up to the first book (which was difficult reading because of some violent themes and descriptions). There are three books extant; it would be a nice choice for a binge/buddy read. There's a LOT of continuity here, they should be read in order.  

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

 

Cozy Hobbies: Joyful Activities for Play & Leisure

 

Cozy Hobbies is a nice collection of light crafting and game activities curated by Kennedy Rose. Due out 29th Sept 2026 from Chronicle Books, it's 240 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

The author has put together a collection of almost 50 short "capsule" introductions to a wide range of leisure activities in a list that will almost certainly have something for almost everyone of all ages. The activities are written for adults, but there are many of these activities which can certainly be enjoyed by all-ages. There are active outdoor activities such as foraging, hiking, camping, and sports, as well as indoor/sedate activities such as diamond painting and tabletop gaming. There is a good overall mix of activities.  

The short chapters are not in-depth, and all are easily accessible and don't require a lot of expert (expensive) equipment to at least sample. Since it's such a wide-ranging collection, some of the hobbies are -really- lightly explained (diamond painting for example - 2 pages and VERY little info). There are many others which are more deeply explored, but some are just ... light on info. Readers could get an idea from the included lists if it's something they would like to explore more in-depth, and videos and instructions are easily available online, so it's not a glaring error. The book is light on actual actionable lists of tools and gear for the specific activities. 

The photography throughout is clear, in color, and professionally styled and rendered. The overall vibe is restful, interesting, and engaging. 

Four stars. The author isn't familiar with all the hobbies she's presenting (crochet and diamond painting to name a couple), but she -does- present them as possibilities, and the descriptions -are- enough to encourage readers to seek out more info. There's a very broad spectrum, from needle felting to tabletop gaming (!!! get your nerd on!), and this book does a fair job of introducing them. 

Four stars. It would be an excellent choice for public, school, or home library acquisition, for activity groups, maker's groups, and similar activity groups. 

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

 

Foraged Basketry: Weaving with Wild and Invasive Plants

 

Foraged Basketry is a very well organized and graphically appealing tutorial guide with projects for making woven containers with foraged and found materials, written by Delia Fian. Due out 15th Sept 2026 from Bloomsbury on their Herbert Press imprint, it's 224 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

This is a complete course, the information is arranged in a logical progression and is layman/beginner accessible. The author moves from foraging and preparing materials (vines, bark, leaves, etc) through identifying and utilizing material from invasive species, project tutorials, some woodcarving info (in a basketry context), and a wealth of supplementary info, appendices, and resource links. There are several artist profiles with gorgeous inspiration photos scattered throughout the book.

Tutorials are written with an introduction and background, materials listed in a bullet style list, followed by step by step instructions. Difficulty levels are stated in the tutorials and seem relevant (i.e., the beginner level projects do seem do-able for a keen beginner). The book is lavishly photographed in color throughout. 

Five stars. This would be an excellent choice for public or home library acquisition, for shared makers' spaces or studios, or for gift giving. 

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

A Grave Deception - Kate Hamilton Mysteries #6

 

A Grave Deceptionis the sixth Kate Hamilton cozy by Connie Berry. Released 9th Dec 2025 by Crooked Lane Books, it's 336 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. 

Readers who enjoy British village cozy murder shopfront mysteries are in for a treat with this series. Series protagonist Kate is an American expat antiques expert who is now happily married to local Detective Inspector Tom Mallory. They're again drawn into investigation of ancient and modern murder, from the long ago past and all-too-current day. 

The author is a gifted wordsmith. Her characterizations are clever and three dimensional; the characters live and breathe and the dialogue isn't clunky. There are several seemingly disparate plot threads which intertwine into a satisfying denouement and resolution. Despite being the sixth book in the series, it worked well as a standalone, though there are some spoilers for earlier books if read out of order. 

Four stars. This is definitely one for British village cozy readers. Very well written and constructed. Clean language and mostly off-page violence. There's a lot of nice background historical research written into the story as well. It would be an excellent choice for public or home library acquisition, or for a solid long binge/buddy read.  

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

 

The Extraordinary Disappointments of Leopold Berry - Sunderworld #1

 

The Extraordinary Disappointments of Leopold Berry is the first book in the Sunderworld series by Ransom Riggs. Released 27th Aug 2024 by Penguin Random House on their Dutton imprint, it's 336 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.

Marketed as a YA fantasy, it's really fine for older middle grade readers and up (12+). The author brings the same whimsy and gifted world building that he gave to readers in the Miss Peregrine series. This is the first book of a duology; book 2 is due out in Oct. 2026 from the same publisher. Fair warning, this one ends on a huge cliffhanger, so for readers who want a clear denouement and self-containment, that's something to be aware of going in. 

This is a hidden-world-inside-the-mundane-world adventure. Hapless Leopold has had extraordinarily weird encounters throughout his life, especially when he's stressed, and it's happening again now as an adult. His father is controlling, grey, and steadfastly disapproving, so Leopold retreats more and more into himself and Sunderworld. 

This is one for everyone who's felt like an outcast, misfit, or out of step with the world around them. There are strong themes of found family, imagination, meandering without a clear goal (relatable!), and trying to get through life without losing ourselves in the process.

Four stars. It's quite odd in places, there's no real linear plot (it meanders from point to point), and there are a number of unresolved plot points at the end (hopefully resolved in book 2). It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition, or for a buddy/challenge read. 

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

Sit Write Here: 6 Mindfulness Practices to Help You Write More and Suffer Less

 

Sit Write Here is an interesting and well written guide to creativity, mindfulness, and writing by April Davila. Released 7th July 2026 by Macmillan on their St. Martin's imprint, it's 224 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.

Distractions, obligations, and just the unrelenting speed of daily life get in the way of creative pursuits. This book is a capsule course on how to use mindfulness and intention to carve out time for writing, for moving beyond creative blockages, and succeeding. (Write *more* and suffer *less*). 

It's practical and usable and she offers concrete tips and exercises to build up good practices. 

Four and a half stars. It would be a good choice for public or home reference library, and for writing group study. 

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

The Yum Cat, Nmeneko

 

The Yum Cat, Nmeneko is a cute illustrated comic featuring a pair of culinarily adventuresome kitties, written and illustrated by Shirimoto. Due out 10th Nov 2026 from Vertical Comics, it's 112 pages and will be available in paperback format. 

This is a cute, simple, and engaging collection of single page (often single panel) comics with Yum Cat and Grey living their best foodie lives. It's very upbeat, with simple text and fun drawings. Many of the drawings don't need (and don't have) text at all. The ones which needed some context were very well captioned in English. There's a fair bit of cultural exchange as well, with lots of sushi and dumplings side by side with pizza and other western treats. 

Nmeneko (Yum Cat) and Grey have adventures, save each other, enjoy lots and lots of treats, and have fun together. Text and pictures are appropriate for all ages, but there is some very mild violence (Grey assaults a giant octopus who's trying to eat them, with a sword on an adventure), but there's no bloodshed or egregious violence.  

Five stars. Very Japanese, very cute, accessible and interesting. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition, for gifting to friends who are big fans of Japanese culture, or just for fun. 

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

Dante N. Ferno: Camp Catastrophe

 

Camp Catastrophe is the second book featuring Dante N. Ferno written and illustrated by Brian Gordon. Released 26th May 2026 by Macmillan on their Farrar, Straus, & Giroux imprint, it's 288 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 throughout.  For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free. The first book in the series is also currently available on KU. 

This is a fun, very humorous camp adventure for middle grade readers ( ~8-12 years). This summer, Dante and Virgil are headed off to camp, hijinks ensue. It's one thing after another, and the excruciating embarrassment of being a 12 year old and trying to be cool (and trying to be a good friend, and trying to not die of actual embarrassment) are something everyone can relate to. 

The illustrations are funny and full of small details which invite readers to take a closer look. The author also has a well regarded webcomic, but this book is aimed toward kids (although it works very well as an all-ages read). 

Four strong stars. It's the second book, but there's not a lot of continuity and they can certainly be read as standalones. It would be an excellent choice for public or home library acquisition. 

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

Those Who Are Gone: A Novel - Raquel Laing #2

 

Those Who Are Gone is an engaging and well written thriller, and the second book to feature Raquel Laing, by Laurie R. King. Released 8th Sept 2026 by Penguin Random House on their Ballantine imprint, it's 336 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. 

It's told in a dual timeline format; past and current day. Through the gradual buildup of layers (and intervening years), a resurrected cold case investigation, emerging details about the family histories of Raquel and her sister, through to the satisfying denouement and resolution, the author does a masterful job with the writing. Rough language, but average for a procedural mystery. Some graphic violence, but again, not used egregiously.

Four solid stars. It would be an excellent choice for public or home library acquisition, or for mystery bookclub discussion or a short binge/buddy read. Excellent books, excellent stories, and top tier writing. It's NOT cozy, and it IS violent, but very well written with a satisfying denouement. 

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

 

Murders in the Marquee - Murder Most Fowl Mysteries #1

 

Murders in the Marquee is the first book in a historical cozy(ish!) series by Dana Mentink. Released 1st Sept 2026 by HarperCollins on their Harlequin Trade imprint, it's 336 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook format.  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 an engaging and readable historical mystery set in 1905 in one of San Francisco's luxury hotels. Reformed jewel thief Saul winds up getting dragged into sleuthing by a resident of the hotel along with the young elevator operator. Although Saul sees "something" which he strongly fears is a murder on his first day at the hotel, he doesn't want to get involved and is reassured when no alarms are raised by staff or patrons and thinks he must have misinterpreted what he heard and saw. 

Although Saul is well developed, the characterization, especially the secondary characters are less well defined and with much less realistic motivations. The crimes remain hidden for roughly 70% of the book. Although billed as a cozy, there is some moderately graphic content (disposal of a corpse) along with some questionable motives on the part of one of the sleuths. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 10 hours 23 minutes and is capably read by Kimberly M. Wetherell. She has a well modulated alto voice and does a good job delineating the characters of a range of ages, both male and female. Sound and production quality were high throughout the read.  

Four stars. It would be a good choice for fans of historical mystery, or a buddy or challenge read. Clean language throughout. 

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

AMAYA'S WELCOME TO KINDERGARTEN: A Warm and Reassuring Story About Starting School, Making Friends, and Feeling Brave

 

Amaya's Welcome to Kindergarten is an interesting illustrated story by Nathaniel and Amaya McDaniel. Released 26th Aug 2026, it's 39 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.

This is a truly appealing and reassuring story for kids dealing with insecurity and anxiety about what to expect going to kindergarten... what will their teacher be like.. will the other kids like them... how will they spend the time at school and what activities can they expect.

It's a very odd combination of generative AI or possibly photoshop. The text accompanying the photos is aimed at adults and will have to be read for kids. That being said, the kids pictured in the book are absolutely adorable, and enthusiastic, and the sentiments are heartwarming and appealing. The author mentions shy kids and anxious kids and shows how the teacher (who is thankfully kind and inclusive) helps everyone shine and enjoy school time.  

Three stars. It would be a good choice for parents or caregivers of young kids heading into their first school experiences. 

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

The Mystic and the Missing Girl

 

The Mystic and the Missing Girl is a cold-case light paranormal cozy mystery by Vikki VanSickle. Due out 8th Sept 2026 from Macmillan on their St. Martin's 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.

This is an engaging and well written cozy with a likeable female MC, a quirky band of secondary characters, a light paranormal element, and a cold case mystery. Drew has moved back to the small town where she grew up to take over her aunt's metaphysical goods shop after her aunt's death. Homecoming is not entirely drama free because of her aunt's prophetic involvement in a disappearance 20 years earlier. The character driven plot drags a bit in the first half, but finds its feet in the second. The ESP elements aren't too overdone and there's a nice classic mix of red herrings and investigation. There's a lot of foreshadowing for possible future books to come. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 10 hours 25 minutes and is capably read by Veronica Hortiguela. She has a warm, well modulated alto voice and does a good job delineating the characters both male and female and range of ages. Sound and production quality are high throughout the read. 

The language is clean and there's no on-page graphic violence. 

Four stars. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition, or possibly a good buddy or book club read. 

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

Plant-Powered Seniors

 

Plant-Powered Seniors is a lifestyle guide with recipes developed and curated by a trio of dieticians and a physician. Due out 15th Sept 2026, independently published, but distributed by Simon & Schuster, it's 400 pages and will be available in paperback (softbound) and ebook formats. 

This is a layman accessible, science-based, well written guide for plant based nutrition for seniors (50+).  The authors have backgrounds in health based clinical nutrition and the writing style is upbeat and positive. 

Part two includes recipes with some variations. Each recipe includes prep time and yields in the header, ingredients (in imperial (American) units) in a bullet list on a sidebar, step by step preparation instructions, and nutritional info in the footer. There are no photographs included in the collection. The recipe ingredients are mostly easily sourced from any average grocery store. 

It's not an academic peer-review type monograph, and it's written in layman accessible language, but it's very well annotated, and honestly the completeness of the bibliography and links (to peer-reviewed scientifically worthy articles and resources) are probably worth the cost of the book by themselves. Very well done.

Four stars, for readers who are committed to making lifestyle changes, exploring vegetarian options, or living with family members making changes.

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

Can Mud Be THAT?!

 

Can Mud Be THAT?! is an adorable illustrated book for the very youngest readers by Sandra Markle and illustrated by Alexandra Colombo. Due out 15th Sept 2026 from Charlesbridge, it's 40 pages and will be available in hardcover and ebook formats. 

Nearly everyone has splashed and squished their way through mud, and nearly every kid has been warned not to track it into the house... but mud isn't *just* wet dirt. This cute illustrated book shows some of the many ways animals and humans use mud to cool down, for protection, for construction, and even for building somewhere to raise a family. 

The story is simple, easy to read and understand for young readers (~3-7 years). The art supports and illustrates the story well, full of movement and small details that invite a closer look. 

Five stars. It would be an excellent choice for public, school, or home library acquisition, or for gift giving.

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

Blumenhaus

 

Blumenhaus is a restful and inspiring highlight anthology from the horticultural arts magazine of the same name, curated by editors Camille Le Gressier & Isabelle Laydier Kristensen. Due out 27th Oct 2026 from Hachette on their Timber Press imprint, it's 416 pages and will be available in hardcover format. 

This is an eclectic collection of short essays about botanical themes, history, and richly illustrated with historical and modern art. It's a wide ranging collection, multi-themed, including retrospective short bios of horticultural luminaries both past and present, visits to famous gardens, culinary and medicinal botanicals, and even a short look at mythology. 

The book is full of inspiration and beauty. It would be a perfect coffee-table book or a lovely gift for a gardening friend. 

Five stars. It's a niche choice, but for folks who enjoy gardening and natural history, it's quite beautiful and engaging. It would make an excellent choice for public or home library acquisition, or for gardening/community garden groups.

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

Blightfall - Riftwake #1

 

Blightfall is the first book in a new collaborative spinoff series by Brandon Sanderson and Janci Patterson, following on from the Skyward books. Released 1st Sept 2026 by Penguin Random House on their Delacorte Press imprint, it's 256 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.

This is a fun YA collaboration, fast moving, engaging, and well written. Although it follows on from Skyward, it's not necessary to have read that series prior to starting this one. All the necessary backstory is given, and it just jumps into the action straight away. 

The science fiction/fantasy military style academy action and world building were great. 

Second book in the series, Songrise, has been announced but there's currently no updated publishing info/release data. 

Four stars. This would be an excellent choice for public, secondary school, or home library acquisition. It would also make a nice buddy or challenge read. 

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

School on Your Terms: A Practical Playbook for Working Adults in Online and Hybrid College

 

School on Your Terms is a well organized resource by Dr. Anna Blankenship for adult and non-traditional students who are interested in options for hybrid or online studies. Released 19th Aug 2026, it's 257 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 throughout.

Additional resources, worksheets, planners, etc are available online and are linked with QR codes in the text. Graphically, it's accessible, clean, and efficient. The author has navigated graduate studies alongside working and family life, and gives numerous tips for planning, setting aside time for the work, checkpoints every week, setting goals (and most importantly sticking to them), and adjusting expectations when life happens to interfere. 

The book's style is concise, and most of the content is arranged around pithy, short, highlighted text boxes. There are numerous troubleshooting lists and "how to fix" and "how to get back on track" sections. 

Four stars. The author doesn't address finding a program or field for further study, and there aren't any concrete methods for navigating the application process or finding funding/financial aid, those are presupposed. She concentrates on helping readers make actionable plans for doing the work and sticking to the schedules to succeed.

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

The Armchair Detectives - Armchair Detectives #1

 

The Armchair Detectives is a cozy mystery series opener by Matt Dunn. Released 1st Oct 2025 by Bookouture, it's 340 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.

There are a wealth of cozies featuring retired and older protagonists in the role of amateur sleuth (for good reason, they're engaging and often humorous in a good way). In this very well written tongue-in-cheek opener, octogenarian former spy Martin is recuperating at a care facility after a hip replacement. After a spate of deaths close together which are at least somewhat unexpected (it is a long term care facility, and the residents are elderly), he turns his investigative abilities to figuring out who what and why. 

He soon recruits another resident, Albie, to the cause and off they go. It's a bit predictable, but light and engaging on the whole. It's not at all derivative, but there's a definite whiff of Only Murders in the Building and Thursday Murder Club, with a little Agatha Raisin thrown in, and fans of those series will likely enjoy this one as well.  

Three and a half stars. Enjoyable. There are currently 2 books extant, and the author seems to be on a semiannual publishing schedule (2/year). 

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

Laboratory - Object Lessons

 

Laboratory is a book in Bloomsbury's Object Lessons series, this volume by Dr. Emily York. Due out 29th Oct 2026 from Bloomsbury on their Academic imprint, it's 160 pages and will be available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. 

This series takes ordinary (even banal) objects such as dust, waste, concrete, and wallpaper, and examines them, elevates them, to objects of honest scrutiny and contemplation. The laboratory as a philosophical concept in Professor York's gaze yields up a wealth of otherwise missed, easily unexamined context, looking at how laboratories have played a large part in scientific discovery (obviously) but also in media, film, and everyday life. 

For those of us who work in STEM (in labs), the author really nails the often invisible, grinding, sometimes monotonous, behind the scenes tasks, and does a good job of contrasting the reality with the flash-bang as depicted in cinema and other popular media. 

Four stars. Interesting and erudite. It would be a good choice for public or post secondary school library acquisition, or for philosophy minded collectors. 

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

Murder by the Millions - Literary Dining Mysteries #2

 

Murder by the Millions is the second Literary Dining cozy mystery by Daryl Wood Gerber. Released 28th Oct. 2025 by Kensington, it's 320 pages and is available in paperback, audio, and ebook formats. Paperback format due out from the same publisher in 3rd quarter 2026. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free, as is the first book in the series.

A nice cozy very bookish mystery series with a returning ensemble cast and some new secondary characters. The story is peppered with lots (and lots) of name-drops of classic golden age to modern mysteries to chase down later. There's a strong foodie element, and MC Allie is a caterer and book lover. The dialogue and content are very clean and there's no graphic violence or sexual content. As a nice bonus (and typical for the genre) there's an important feline character, Allie's kitty Darcy, who's key to unraveling the whole mystery. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 9 hours 18 minutes and is capably read by Sara Van Beckum. She has a well modulated alto voice with a midwest American accent and does a fine job of delineating the characters of a range of ages and both male and female. Sound and production quality is high throughout the read.  

Four stars. It would be a nice choice for public or home library acquisition, or for a light binge/buddy read. 

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

Natural Settings: Creating Botanical Jewelry with Eco-resins

 

Natural Settings is a well written tutorial guide with projects for using natural botanical jewelry by Dr. Sharon Wu. Released 18th Aug 2026 by Bloomsbury on their Herbert Press imprint, it's 176 pages and is available in paperback and ebook formats. It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents (including supplies and products to do the projects).

This is a very well written and logically arranged tutorial guide featuring lots of intricate and attractive jewelry pieces which featuring resin embedded flowers and botanical elements. The projects are beautifully complex and unbelievably detailed.

The introduction covers tools, setup, materials selection, and safety. The practical tutorial chapters which follow include info on the process of mixing, embedding, forming, finishing, detailing, combining multiple elements, etc. The text is accompanied by plenty of clear, color photos throughout. 

The project tutorial chapters include full projects with instructions. Each tutorial includes an introduction, list of tools and supplies, and step-by-step photo/text directions.

Five stars. Well written and illustrated. Very well photographed throughout. This would make an excellent choice for public or school library acquisition, gift-giving, activity groups, maker's groups, and for the home studio library.

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

 

Cards on the Table

 

Cards on the Table is a paranormal cozy(ish) mystery by Lana Harper & Jilly Gagnon. Released 1st Sept 2026 by Penguin Random House on their Bantam imprint, it's 400 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. 

Told in alternating chapters PoV of the two MC who are sisters, the closed suspect pool isolated setting feels like a fitting homage to the golden age classic mystery. Protagonists Cassie and Tori become chief suspects of incompetent local police when a client whose mansion they've moved into suddenly passes away during a séance, and a large fortune goes missing. 

There is a light paranormal aspect, the sisters are descendants of a victim of the Salem witch trials, practicing their divination, card reading, and spellcraft in the modern era. They have a complex relationship with one another, also working through abandonment issues and trying to rely on each other and make a life for themselves. 

The writing is engaging, with well developed believable characters (for the genre). The pacing is slow in the first half of the book, but picks up around halfway. The climax and denouement are satisfying with an extra little "last chapter twist" which was nice. It's not explicitly stated, but there's strong foreshadowing for a continuing series with future adventures for the sisters. 

Three and a half stars. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition, or a nice buddy read for fans of the genre.

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

  

Poker Wars: Murder, Mayhem, and the Bloody History that Led to the World Series of Poker

 

Poker Wars is an engaging and well written true crime history about organized crime in Texas & Las Vegas and the nascence of the world series of poker, written by Philip Guitar and Jim Martyka. Released 11th Aug 2026 by Crooked Lane, it's 336 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. 

The first half of the book is a more or less directly factual historical recounting (and some of the mythology) surrounding Benny Binion and his deadly feud with Herbert Noble, and a motley cast of thugs, gamblers, grifters, and con men doing the gambling circuits in Texas and Las Vegas. The second half is a lightly fictionalized account of the origins of the World Series of Poker. 

It's especially interesting for gambling fans, but even for fans of true-crime, there's enough to make an engaging read. The author/publisher have added a disclaimer firmly stating that it's fiction, but there's at least a distinct framework of real history included, and the names used in the book are the actual names of the actual players. 

Four stars. Interesting (and scary in places - those guys weren't nice). 

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

Needle Felting the Animals of the National Parks

 

Needle Felting the Animals of the National Parks is a well written guide to needle felting with 15 project tutorials written and curated by Claudia Marie Lenart. Released 28th July 2026 by Fox Chapel on their Landauer imprint, it's 176 pages and will be available in paperback and ebook formats. 

This is such an appealing and accessible technique and tutorial guide with clearly written instructions and colour photographs which illustrate the steps from tool and materials selection through to the finished project. Many of the projects (there are 15 including black bears, seal cubs, bison, and a bunch of others) can be repurposed for other uses or just used as they are. They're surprisingly realistic and will appeal to almost everyone.

The introduction includes a good overview over the basic tools and supplies. The following chapters contain the tutorials. The book includes templates, but no bibliography or resource lists (which can be found with an online search anyhow).

Five stars. This is a useful and beginner accessible guide and would make a great selection for library acquisition, maker's groups, activity groups, and the home library.

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

Snow Clearing Day - Little Landscapers

 

Snow-Clearing Day is an adorable illustrated picture book for the youngest kids by Breanna Carzoo. Due out 15th Sept. 2026 from Simon & Schuster on their Little Simon imprint, it's 24 pages and will be available as a board book or ebook. 

The art is very cute and appealing, done in a collage style with gesso accents. Three little friends are ready to go to work and clear their neighborhood. The text is written simply with lots of onomatopoetic words and situations which invite readers to improvise their own narration (vroom! whoosh! scrape! etc). 

Five stars. It would be an excellent choice for public, school, or home library, as well as for childminders and classroom (or library) reading circles. There are also gentle unobtrusive little opportunities for counting (1,2,3), and cleaning up after finishing work, and of enjoying a hot cocoa after a job well done.

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

The Lone Wolf Cafe - Mainely Magic #1

 

The Lone Wolf Café is a cute F/F sapphic romantasy and the first book in a series by Sydney Wilder. Originally published in 2025, this reformat and re-release is 434 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 throughout.  For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.

This is very much a cozy romance with two F/F protagonist misfits and both have secrets to hide and lots of baggage. Sarcastic, found family, female MCs, werewolves and magic, and lots and lots of drama (which could be resolved with 3 minutes of honesty, but they can't risk it all to open up to one another).

The characters manage to be distinct and well delineated and readers won't have trouble keeping them separated. It is quite trope-y, with a "mean girls" subplot, but the magic system and world building are engaging and believable (for the genre). The little elementals/familiars are especially appealing and sweet. 

The unabridged audiobook has a run time of 11 hours 9 minutes and is read by Autumn Wolff. She has an odd unpolished voice and sometimes difficult modulation. The characters aren't especially well delineated and are sometimes difficult to distinguish from one another. The actual sound and production quality were not up to Audible's usual standards for the read. (I received an ALC, so the final cut could be much more polished).

Three and a half stars. It would be a good choice for public or home library acquisition as well as for a buddy read. 

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