A Village Fete Murder by Katie Gayle - Book Review

A Village Fete Murder by Katie Gayle

Series: Julia Bird Mysteries #3 (Standalone)

Genre: Contemporary Cozy Mystery 

4 Stars 

One Liner: A comfort read dealing with a serious topic 

*****

Julia Bird is excited about the village fair at the Berrywick House. The day arrives, and Julia is enjoying the event with Sean on her side. However, the duo ends up discovering a dead body in a maze. The body belongs to none other than Ursula Benjamin, a math teacher at St. Martin’s and a prickly person to anyone who knows her. 

This time, Julia is more than happy to let DI Gibson handle the case. But she can’t help it when her mind refuses to ignore the missing links. After all, she found the body and is involved in the case. With another death occurring in the next few days, can Julia find the killer before murder number three? 

The story comes in the third-person POV of Julia Bird. 

My Thoughts: 

This is the third book in the series, and as enjoyable as the previous two. Julia Bird has settled into her village life with a chicken coop, vegetable garden, a part-time job, and her mischievous chocolate Lab, Jake. 

This book blends the case and Julia's personal life. We see some developments in her interactions with her daughter, Jess. The reason for her resigning from her previous job is also revealed. 

The story is compact (200 pages) and has a decent pace. With recurring characters doing their bit and Julia playing sleuth against her wishes, the case is settled to satisfaction. 

What I particularly like in this one is the theme of bullying and its effects on people. Being bullied by schoolmates is one thing. But being bullied by a teacher? The damage can be severe. The book handles the topic with the right touch as required by the genre. It’s not surface level, but it is neither too deep.  

Julia and Sean’s relationship is in the background, pretty much established for what it is for the time being. The focus is much on the case, which is a good thing, given the theme. There’s a small action scene in the climax to make it more interesting.  

To summarize, A Village Fete Murder is a solid continuation of the series, and the characters are settling in real nice. There aren’t many laughs in this one, but Jake and Julia manage to bring out a couple of chuckles. And... do I sense the DI's story coming up?

Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the eARC. 

#NetGalley #AVillageFeteMurder 

The Widow of Weeping Pines by Amanda McKinney - Book Review

The Widow of Weeping Pines by Amanda McKinney

Publication Date: 02nd Dec 2022

Genre: Psychological Mystery Novella 

2.8 Stars

One Liner: Fast-paced but has weaker second half  

Betty Lou Abbott is a therapist and an author. However, her life is far from simple or normal. She has too many secrets to keep, some of which are in the basement of the house she inherited from her husband. Her fiancé, Ian, seems to have his secrets too, and so does Carmen Marquis, Betty’s client and a bestselling author. Nicholas Stahl is a crooked detective with an agenda of his own. 

The lives of these characters are entangled in a twisty game of cat and mouse. But who is the cat, and who is the mouse? Can a person be both? 

The story comes from the first-person POV of mostly Betty, with a couple of chapters by Nicholas. 

What I Like:  

This is a short book (a novella) with a fast-paced narration. The short chapters further add to its advantage and keep the story going.

The beginning is perfect. It hooks the reader and draws them into the plot while indeed sounding like the narration of a mad woman. In fact, the first half of the book is very good. 

The setting was great, though somehow I feel it isn’t fully utilized to up the atmosphere. Makes sense, given the pacing, though. 

The characters are distinct and show promise of being something unique and powerful. However… (more in the next section.)

The revelations come in stages and are neatly arranged to further the plot. But then… (more in the next section.)

What Didn’t Work for Me:

The last part of the book is more focused on twists and a shocking ending rather than the characters. The story shifts from being something disturbing to a more commonly found trope in domestic thrillers. 

It doesn’t help that the heroine, Betty, is an alcoholic with tons of psychological issues. She is almost always drunk and still manages to act like a functional adult (or so she says). Betty is already an intriguing character. I’d have liked it if she let her craziness stand out on its own without relying on alcohol. 

Detective Nicholas’ arc isn’t explored much. Just when he should have taken over, he gets sidelined. Ian was pretty much a cookie-cutter useless fiancé. Carmen’s character faces the same issue as the detective. They end up more as convenient parts of the plot in the second half. 

A couple of cases go nowhere. While they provide a sort of reference to the hidden side of the involved characters, this could have been achieved without the loose ends. 

I’m not a fan of pull-the-rug twists, which happens here. While I am still okay with it, what disappoints me is the lack of a proper explanation. What’s given might be enough for Betty but not me. 

There are a couple of graphic sex scenes that don’t add much to the plot. These might have worked if the book is longer. The ending is rushed too. Extending this to a book of around 250 pages would have made the characters twisty instead of twisting the plot. 

To summarize, The Widow of Weeping Pines is a fast-paced thriller with a solid first half. The plot has potential, and the writing is easy to read. I’ll check out more books by the author. 

Thank you, NetGalley and HH Tisevich, for the eARC. 

#amandamckinney #NetGalley

***

P.S: That cover is super cool. 

Murder at the Seven Dials by Cara Devlin - Book Review

Murder at the Seven Dials by Cara Devlin

Series: Bow Street Duchess Mystery #1 (Standalone) 

Publication Date: 28th Jan 2023

Genre: Historical Mystery 

4.2 Stars 

One Liner: Interesting start to a new series 

*****

Bow Street Officer Hugh Marsden finds the Duke of Fournier with the murdered body of an opera singer. He arrests the duke, considering it a straightforward case. After all, Hugh got a chance to arrest a peer, and he wasn’t going to let it slip from his hands. 

What he didn’t expect was the Duchess of Fournier, Audrey Sinclair, to take an active role in the case and conduct her own investigation. She knows her husband is innocent and is determined to prove it. What secret ability does the duchess have that she is so sure of the duke’s innocence?

Hugh and Audrey continue to clash even as they work to solve the case for separate reasons. Soon, Hugh realizes that the killer is at large and that joining forces with Audrey is the only way to keep her safe. With secrets to safeguard and protect from each other, can the duo solve the case before either of them is targeted by the killer? 

The story comes from a limited third-person POV of Hugh and Audrey. 

My Thoughts: 

This is a steady-paced mystery with the right elements of danger, intrigue, and a touch of paranormal abilities. The story starts strong and continues to keep us hooked.

Audrey is no dainty flower, but she isn’t strong either. She is a mix of determination, vulnerability, fear, and stupidity. Audrey’s reasons justify her actions even if some of her decisions make us shake our heads and roll our eyes. 

Hugh’s character arc is well-done. He isn’t without faults but is also quick to acknowledge his mistakes. His murky past adds a layer of intrigue and makes him a sort of brooding hero from the regency era. The primary difference, of course, lies in the fact that Hugh is not one of the ton. 

The plot manages to create a subtle tension between the lead pair without overdoing it (given their character backgrounds). It has Lady Julia Grey (series by Deanna Raybourn) vibes, so I’m curious to see how this will be handled in the next books.

The mystery progresses well, revealing information in bits and pieces. I like how the suspect changes with each revelation. The paranormal element is just there, enough to show us what the duchess can and cannot do. 

As the first book in the series, it hits the right notes with ease. It provides enough backstory about the characters to set the stage and solve the case. 

To summarize, Murder at the Seven Dials is a well-written historical mystery with a good pace, an engaging plotline, and interesting characters. I look forward to reading the next book soon. 

Thank you, NetGalley and BooksGoSoical, for the eARC. 

#NetGalley #MurderattheSevenDials 

Night Wherever We Go by Tracey Rose Peyton - Book Review

Night Wherever We Go by Tracey Rose Peyton

Genre: Historical Fiction 

4.5 Stars 

One Liner: Hard-hitting and well-written 

*****

**The review and the book contain triggers.**

*****

The plantation is struggling in the Texas weather. Six enslaved women gather in the nearby forest in secret to find a way to overcome their problems. The plantation owners, the Lucys, have decided to breed slaves by hiring a 'stockman' to impregnate them. The women are determined to prevent this. 

A pregnancy will mean more such attempts until their bodies give up. However, being caught has deadly consequences, as slaves have no rights. Can the women win this uneven fight with the Lucys? 

The story comes in the first-person plural and third-person POV. 

My Thoughts: 

It’s not always that I don’t know what to say about a book I’ve read. Night The premise says it is a tale of Black women enslaved, humiliated, tortured, and abused by their owners. However, it is so much more! 

The narration is the highlight of the book. It’s a perfect mix of detached and personal. The reader is compelled to feel the pain but doesn’t get drowned by drama. In fact, there is no drama, even with the scope for it. I love how the narration is taut and a little meandering at the same time. This blend of contrasting styles somehow works to create the right impact on the reader. 

Though there are six women slaves mentioned, not all have an equal role. A couple of them stand out, a couple of them walk in and out whenever necessary, and the others fade into the background. This works to keep the focus on the main plot and how it unravels as the story progresses. 

As a reader, you know which character is doing something that could hurt them all. But you also know the reason for it and feel doubly sad. You want to know what happens at the end, but you also don’t want to know. 

Another interesting aspect is the importance of their rituals. Some of them are Christians but still hold on to their pagan roots. Some blend and merge all rituals, trying to gain what little comfort they can from any God willing to listen. 

Though the women are bound by common circumstances like slavery and abuse, they come from different backgrounds and experiences. Despite their shared sisterhood, they have arguments, fights, and secrets that bring the necessary action to advance the plot. They are a unit but with independent minds, thoughts, and ideas. This makes the characters more realistic and impactful. 

With so much to love about this hard-hitting story, why did I round it down to 4 stars? The ending. 

It is good and not good. I went in prepared for it. After all, there aren’t many options here. So, that part is good. However, there’s a split, which somehow left me feeling lost as the read the last page. I can’t explain without revealing spoilers, but a sudden new thread takes the reader out of the scene. Though it ties up with the plot, it removes the focus from the main characters. Though the POV shifts again, the momentum is lost. 

To summarize, Night Wherever We Go is a wonderful book about the lives of slaves on plantations and their constant fight for freedom. Using a setting like Texas and a smaller plantation with a handful of slaves makes the book more personal and poignant. I look forward to reading more by the author. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Ecco, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book. 

*****

P.S: As you would have guessed, the book has many triggers, ranging from domestic abuse to forced sex and more. 

The Convict's Canal by Julia Golding - Book Review

Jane Austen Investigates: The Convict's Canal by Julia Golding

Series: Jane Austen Investigates #3 (Standalone)

Genre: Middle Grade Fiction 

4 Stars 

One Liner: Delightful entertainer (but needs a different blurb) 

Jane and her older sister Cassandra, get an invitation to visit their brother Henry at Oxford. The duo takes the trip with their father, intent on having a great time. Jane is excited but also sad that girls aren’t allowed to study at universities. 

They find out that the Oxford canal terminus is being constructed, employing convicts as laborers. Jane comes across a rude convict, Gardiner, and has pretty strong opinions about many things (nothing new for our darling Jane). However, the convict escapes, and Jane comes across certain information. She might have to step into the much-needed investigation and get to the bottom of the truth. Is the thirteen-year-old Jane up for the task? 

The story comes in the third-person POV. 

My Thoughts: 

I’ve been looking forward to the third book in this series for a while now. When I saw it on NetGalley, I grabbed it right away. It is pure fun reading and imagining Jane Austen as a cheeky, witty, and naughty young teen, planning & writing stories for her family, being the unruly child with strong feminist opinions and a nose that’s too curious for her own good. 

This book can be read as a standalone, though it will help to have an idea about the ‘Austen family’ here. They are such an interesting lot! 

However, this book differs from the previous ones in terms of the mystery aspect. The central event doesn’t occur until the second half. The entire mystery and investigation occur in the last 35% of the book. 

The first half is all about setting up the stage at Oxford. There are enough laughs and antics to keep us entertained but no mystery. If you go into the book looking for a case right away, you might be disappointed. (The blurb needs to be reworked to focus on Jane’s exploration of Oxford rather than the mystery). 

I’m not too bothered this time because I already know the characters and like them with or without mystery. Cassandra is growing up to be a level-headed sixteen-year-old who knows when to let Jane convince with her schemes and when to take control. 

The banter between the Austen family members is a treat to read. Jane’s letters are just as fun (and the drawings are funnier). Mr. Austen (a reverend) has a major role in this book (given the context), and he proves himself to be a wonderful parent (in many ways). 

Of course, feminist themes weave in and out of the plot- from girls not having the opportunity to go to university (and even stay here overnight) to how the men (& women) expect young girls to be stupid and incapable of thinking about anything except suitors. Since this is MG fiction, the topics are handled with a light and humorous touch. 

The ending is a little easy compared to reality. Not complaining, though. It suits the genre, and there’s enough heaviness to indicate that things don’t always have a happy ending. 

To summarize, The Convict’s Canal is a solid continuation of the series and is highly enjoyable. I wish the book was a little longer and gave more space to the mystery. If you want to read about young Jane Austen playing Agatha Christie, this series is for you. 

Thank you, NetGalley, SPCK Children's, and Lion Hudson, for the eARC. 

#NetGalley #JaneAustenInvestigates 

*****

P.S: This is a small and fast-paced book you can complete in a couple of hours. 

The Cottage by the Loch by Kennedy Kerr - Book Review

The Cottage by the Loch by Kennedy Kerr

Series: Loch Caremon #1 (Standalone) 

Publication Date: 24th Jan 2023

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction, Romane

3.3 Stars 

One Liner: Got its moments but hit the mark 

*****

Zelda Hicks reaches Scotland (much against her wishes) to complete a work-related project. She is grieving her mother’s death and doesn’t want anything to do with Scotland as it reminds her of her father’s abandonment and his roots. 

However, a couple of unexpected events extend her stay in Scotland. Zelda begins to make friends and use her professional expertise to help the friendly local people. She isn’t short of admirers either. The super-friendly Ryan and the grumpy Laird Hal seem to like her.

When one of her projects reveals a hidden connection to the past, Zelda has to decide if she is ready to embrace her past and heal her wounds or if she wants to ignore them and walk away. And what about her love life? 

The story comes in Zelda’s first-person POV. 

My Thoughts: 

I’m glad I didn’t reread the blurb before starting the book. Though it does talk of the plot, it also creates a very different impression of what to expect. The said incident doesn’t happen until after 55%. I’d have been disappointed if I focused on the blurb. (Someone rewrite it, please!)

The book is primarily women’s fiction with a good dose of romance. Zelda isn’t bothered to find her Scottish father. Quite the contrary, in fact. She has her reasons, so the focus is on her life (career and the two love interests with secrets of their own). 

The setting is beautiful. I loved reading about the landscape, the unpredictable weather, and the beauty of the looming castle. The descriptions are vivid without feeling OTT. 

The side characters are sweet and friendly and display the small-town charm with ease. Dotty, Fiona, and Gretchen’s personalities stand out throughout the book. Emery is another sweet character, Zelda’s friend from NY (where she lives & works). 

The theme of grieving a lost dear one takes different angles in this book. It shows how people react in their own ways when faced with heartbreaking situations. 

I’m not fond of a love triangle (which, again, is not mentioned in the blurb). Zelda is annoying in this aspect. The number of times she says she doesn’t trust one of them based on what the other said got a little too much. And yeah, her first-person POV sounds immature and whiny in this aspect. 

A simple rule: when you keep your options open, you don’t get annoyed when you see one of them with another woman and make assumptions. 

I do like that her character is not perfect. She has good and not-so traits. Fortunately, her good traits include a great eye for detail, enthusiasm to take up projects, and a helpful nature. She uses her expertise to promote the castle and help a couple of others. Her character shines in such scenes. Also, she establishes boundaries well and doesn’t hesitate to put people in place if they try to take advantage. 

Hal Cameron is probably the typical hero with a grumpy exterior and a gooey heart. He isn’t insulting or demeaning, which is a plus. In fact, I like him more than Zelda (hey, no judging!). 

There’s one totally unnecessary sentence that I dislike (hate) in the book. It does nothing for the plot. It could have been better presented. 

The book has an HFN ending, and the story will continue in book two. I will give it a shot, mainly for Hal and Scotland. 

To summarize, The Cottage by the Loch is a decent contemporary romance if you enjoy love triangle plots and the beautiful Scottish setting. 

Thank you, NetGalley, and Bookouture, for the eARC. 

#NetGalley #TheCottagebytheLoch 

Death At Crookham Hall by Michelle Salter - Book Review

Death At Crookham Hall by Michelle Salter

Publication Day: 18th Jan 2023

Series: The Iris Woodmore Mysteries, #1 (Standalone)

Genre: Historical Cozy Mystery 

3.7 Stars 

One Liner: An entertaining read (despite a few bumps)  

***

1920 London

Two women MPs are competing in the elections for the first time. Reporter Iris Woodmore has her favorites but knows she will keep her reports as unbiased as possible. She is invited to the House of Commons to cover the proceeds. However, the place has painful memories for her. Iris’ mother fell into River Thames during a suffragette protest. 

When the Big Ben watchman tells Iris that her mother didn’t fall into the river but jumped of her own accord, Iris decides to dig into the past and find out more. It leads her to the disappearance of a maid at Crookham Hall during the same period. Things get complicated when the past and present seem to be tied to each other.  

Can Iris get to the bottom of the truth? 

The story comes in the first-person POV of Iris. 

My Thoughts: 

The story has a decent pace despite dealing with an array of themes of topics. It blends social, political, economical, and feminist themes to create a cozy mystery with a splash of courtroom drama. Some of it works well. 

Iris is a young journalist. She has an analytical mind but is not without her biases. At times, she comes across as a really naïve person, while at times, she proves she can handle a challenge. I’m hoping her character arc with getting steadier in the next books. 

Lady Dauphine and Mrs. Siddons are well-etched and create a stronger impact than Iris. Elijah is another interesting character and a good influence on Iris. 

The mystery is easy enough to guess, especially halfway through the book, when certain information is presented. It ties up with everything provided until then. I could guess almost all the revelations. Not an issue for me, though. I’m not that particular about the surprise element in cozies. 

I couldn’t help but snort at the ending. It is abrupt and even a little anti-climatic but is perfect for the first book in the series. I’m impressed. 

The courtroom scenes aren’t that engrossing compared to the rest of the book. Also, the jump in the timeline at the end is confusing. I read again to guess the missing part. 

The depiction of the then society comes out very well. The multiple references to what women wear, their hairstyles, etc., present a clear picture of the times. Here’s a short blog by the author talking about the inspiration for the plot. 

To summarize, Death At Crookham Hall is a decent start to a new historical cozy mystery series. I’m intrigued enough to read the next book (the blurb sounds cool). 

Thank you, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. 

#NetGalley #DeathAtCrookhamHall 

***

P.S.: The book was previously published as The Suffragette’s Daughter. 

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett - Book Review

Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries by Heather Fawcett

Series: Emily Wilde #1 (Standalone) 

Publication Date: 19th Jan 2023

Genre: Historical Fantasy 

4.2 Stars 

One liner: Entertaining and fun  

Emily Wilde is a Cambridge professor with exceptional knowledge of Faeries and the Folk. She is writing the world’s first ‘Encyclopaedia of Faeries’ and needs a final chapter about the Hidden Ones. This takes her to a remote small town far in the North. However, her absolute lack of people skills results in alienating the very people she needs to interview. 

Then arrives the insufferable Wendell Bambleby, her only friend and academic archrival, intent on ‘helping her’ finish her research. Bambleby has already charmed the townsfolk, but his ‘help’ is not something Emily wants. 

They somehow start to work it out until Emily is faced with challenges to tackle the Hidden Ones and find out what Bambleby really wants. However, it means she may have to stop burying her emotions and unlock her heart to allow people inside. 

The story comes in Emily’s first-person narrative through a journal. 

What I Like: 

Emily and Wendell are easy characters to read. I’m sure many introverts can see the real Emily behind her no-nonsense exterior. Wendell, well… he reminded me of Hercule Poirot at times, though the two of them belong to opposite ends (or may not). 

The interaction between the lead pair is a treat. Their sassy responses sometimes border on rude, but hey, it is fun. They are comfortable in each other’s presence, which shows in their conversations.   

Poe is a delightfully cute character. Shadow is the stark opposite but another good character in the book. Aud and Lijja were the other two characters I like. I wish Thora also had more space in the book. 

The setting is atmospheric and vivid without tons of lyrical prose. It helps that Emily isn’t the type to waste her energy on poetic descriptions of the forests, trees, etc. But… (more in the next section). 

The last part of the story isn’t what I expected, but it still works well. I like how everything ties up to complete the plot while leaving the subplot open for the sequel. 

The HFN ending did make me happy. It stays true to the character arcs, so that’s another advantage. Of course, I have high hopes for the next book. (Dear author, I assume it will be available real soon.) 

There’s a bibliography at the end (mine is an electronic copy), which is just as entertaining with snippets of information and personal comments. 

I also like the folktales shared in the book even though the ones in the middle are distracting and slow down the plot. 

What Could Have Been Better for Me: 

The writing isn’t easy to read. We are reading Emily’s journal, but the roundabout writing is irksome at times. Also, it makes the narration painfully slow. The % just doesn’t move. The book has 330+ pages but feels like a 400+ page book because of this. 

The romance is non-existent. My expectations were less, given Emily’s character, but I couldn’t get even the minimum. Going into the book for romance will be disappointing. I hope there will be some in the sequel. (And copying a GR friend… no love triangles, please! *shudder*)

That one scene that propels the story forward in the second half feels a little too abrupt. I see why it seems that way. This is Emily’s journal, after all. Yet, I’d prefer it to be smoother. 

To summarize, Emily Wilde’s Encyclopaedia of Faeries is a fun book about a mousy scholarly girl, faeries, and some magic. The plot is mostly light, but there are a few disturbing scenes that can give you the creeps. Looking forward to the second book. (Did I mention how adorable Wendell is?) 

Thank you, NetGalley, Little, Brown Book Group UK, and Orbit, for the eARC. 

#NetGalley #EmilyWildesEncyclopaediaofFaeries

***

P.S: Which cover do you like? 

One Day With You by Shari Low - Book Review

One Day With You by Shari Low

Publication Date: 20th Jan 2023

Genre: Contemporary Women’s Fiction 

4 Stars 

One Liner: A good blend of emotions 

*****

Tress Walker and her loving husband Max are expecting their first child. Max goes off for an overnight meeting in London when Tress goes into labor. She takes help from her next-door neighbor Nancy Jenkins, unaware that Max is not where he said he would be. 

Nancy is excited to meet her first crush Eddie at the school reunion. At 66, she wonders if life is giving her a second chance. However, Tress’s request for help cannot be ignored. She loves Tress too much to say no. 

Noah Clark and his wife Anya seem to be having marriage troubles. Noah isn’t sure if he should share his concerns with his best friend, Max, until he can sort out his emotions. Soon, he uncovers a secret that shatters his heart and emotions. 

What happens on that one day will change all their lives forever. 

The story comes in the third-person POV of Tress, Noah, and Nancy. 

My Thoughts: 

I knew what to expect when I requested the book. I wasn’t looking for a fresh theme/ topic. I was only curious to see how the author executed it. 

Structuring the story to fit it within a day was a good idea. The day is divided into sections, which made it easy to track parallel events. The detailed epilogue at the end ensures the readers have their answers. 

The characters weren’t deep or layered. What you see is what you get. This actually helped the plot from being overcomplicated or intense. I prefer books with contained emotions, so this worked for me. (The emotional quotient will vary for each reader). 

There are bits of humor that may or may not be funny but do their job to lighten the situation. Tress, Noah, Nancy, and Val deal with different issues in their own ways, so the jokes kept things light when they go too heavy. 

I liked how Tress’s mother isn’t the stereotypical bitter/ emotionally unavailable mom. Tress grew up in a positive environment, and her trust in Max stems from her good heart. 

Another aspect I liked was the age gap between Tress and Max. It wasn’t highlighted or used for the plot. It was what it was. (Tress is older than Max by 6-7 years). 

The pacing was decent, though the book felt a little laborious (excuse the pun) in the middle. I wanted the story to move on to the next stage. 

Max’s POV was well-done. I have no sympathy for him or Anya. However, the execution molded the character very well. It was impactful, more than Tress or Noah’s POV. 

Nancy’s POV was interesting too, and I was glad to see everything come together at the end. The found family trope was heartwarming to read. 

To summarize, One Day With You is a heartwarming read that handles multiple themes with a deft touch. I look forward to reading more by the author. 

Thank you, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books, for the eARC.  

#NetGalley #OneDayWithYou 

For Lamb by Lesa Cline-Ransome - Book Review

For Lamb by Lesa Cline-Ransome

Publication Date: 10th Jan 2023

Genre: YA Historical Fiction

4.5 Stars 

One Liner: Touching, moving, and bittersweet 

*****

Lamb lives with her mother and older brother in Jackson, Mississippi. It’s the 1930s, and being Black means keeping their head down and staying quiet to avoid being lynched by white people. Lamb’s mother is a talented seamstress and a closet lesbian. Lamb’s brother, Simeon, is an intelligent and studious boy with dreams to go to the North and live a free life. 

Lamb, true to her name, is a sweet and naïve girl with a beautiful voice. She is often the peacemaker between her mother and brother but loves them dearly. Her friendship with a white girl results in a series of events that put an end to everything. This story can end in only one way. 

The story comes in the first-person POV of six characters, with Lamb and Simeon getting a major share of the chapters. 

What I Like:

The blurb says, ‘Told with nuance and subtlety, avoiding sensationalism and unnecessary brutality…’, and I agree. The book doesn’t resort to graphical and prolonged descriptions of violence. It provides enough information and leaves the rest for the readers to comprehend. 

The beginning is slow and takes its own time. However, it picks up pace after the first quarter. I like the unspoken bond between Marion, Lamb, and Simeon. It’s like hard candy. Tough on the outside, warm and loving on the inside. 

The title makes sense as the plot comes together in the latter half. The author’s note provided more information. Don’t skip the note in this one. It’s a must-read. 

While Lamb and Simeon are sweet and loving characters, I got hooked by Marion’s attitude and approach even before I read her POV. There’s something about her that isn’t immediately apparent to the reader. I also wish I could know more about her childhood (a novella about it, maybe?). 

Marny’s character is well-crafted. She is what a white, young, bookish girl would be. Sweet and a little rebellious, but not strong enough to take a stand when things get worse. Nor capable of looking at things from another perspective and realizing what her actions finally led to. 

Lamb’s character arc is tentative but steadies in the second half. Her desire to have a friend even at the risk of being targeted for it, her hope to yearn for a better life, and the struggle to stand up for herself without hurting her mother and brother are heart-touching. 

The contrast between Simeon and Marion’s characters and the insights from Chem and Chester make the book a compelling read (despite the lack of a proper setting). 

What Could Have Worked Better for Me:

The book is tagged LGBT+, and I was curious to see how it would be explored in such a setting. But this is a pretty minor aspect of the book. We know it’s there but doesn’t, as such, affect the plot. I’d love to see at least another chapter dedicated to exploring the character’s emotions. 

I see the reason for the first-person POV of so many characters, but not all of them are impactful. A limited third-person POV would have given the same since a couple of characters get no more than 1-3 chapters to present their side. 

While the blurb is true to the story, I would present this more as the story of Lamb’s family and the social dynamics during the 1930s. Interracial friendship is the trigger that changes everything, but it is not the sole focus. In fact, this comes quite late in the book, so expecting friendship to be the central point can affect the reader’s experience. 

To summarize, For Lamb is a poignant book that presents racial injustice with sensitivity. It is written for the YA audience but works for adults too. I know I’ll be reading more books by her. 

Thank you, NetGalley and Holiday House, for the eARC.  

#NetGalley #ForLamb 

***

P.S: Mine is an ARC, so the formatting was off and messy, which made it hard to follow the changing POVs. This shouldn’t be a problem with the final copy. 

The Night Travelers by Armando Lucas Correa - Book Review

The Night Travelers by Armando Lucas Correa

Publication Date: 10th Jan 2023

Genre: Historical Fiction, Multi-timeline 

3.5 Stars 

One Liner: Dark, heavy, and overwhelming in content but lacks the emotional impact 

*****

The Night Travelers is the story of four generations of women whose lives change during the Nazi rule, the Cuban Revolution, and the fall of the Berlin wall. The story starts with Ally Keller giving birth to Lilith, a mixed-race daughter, in Berlin, in 1931. 

Life in Havana seems happy for Lilith in 1958 until the Cuban Revolution puts her and her daughter Nadine at risk. It’s 1988 in Berlin, and Nadine is a dedicated scientist trying to ignore her family history. Luna, Nadine’s daughter, decides it’s time she knew the truth of the past. But what does it do to her life? 

The story comes in the third-person POV of the main characters. 

My Thoughts: 

The book spans the years covering WWII, the Cuban Revolution, and the fall of the Berlin Wall. It is rooted in historical events and feels heavy throughout. It’s not an easy book to read (in many ways). 

The beginning is wow. It starts strong with Ally giving birth to Lilith in Berlin when only Aryans were considered a pure race. But as the story progressed, the emotions don't register. It’s like watching a movie on the neighbor’s telly. I can’t connect with any of the characters. The writing is kind of monotone, with very little emphasis to make me feel for any of the ladies. I’m not sure if the emotions were lost in translation, but all four of them sound the same, albeit in slightly different ways. 

The story moves back and forth and is divided into three acts. The shifting timelines aren’t hard to track. A better way to read the book is to let it flow instead of trying to keep tabs on the period. 

One aspect I love about the book is the theme of intergenerational trauma and its impact on people. The hatred for all Germans after the Nazi brutality, the mistrust of Cubans, and ordinary people trying to pick up the broken pieces of their lives, suffering from trauma that wasn’t even theirs, to begin with. 

While I admire the research behind the book, I couldn’t understand much of the Cuban track. The writing assumes readers are knowledgeable of the topic to fill the gaps. Though I know enough of WWII and Berlin history, my knowledge of Cuba’s past isn’t that great. 

The heavy and sad undertones are so consistent that it’s hard to read more than a few pages without feeling overwhelmed or lost. Even the lighthearted moments are tinged with melancholy and awareness that some devastating is around the corner. 

This is a book I want to love, but I can only say I like it in parts. The ending is vague (not my favorite kind), leaving me dissatisfied about the plot but relieved that I could finally complete it. 

To summarize, The Night Travelers is an overwhelming historical fiction that spans four generations of women and their lives in the backdrop of wars. This book is not for everyone (contains triggers). 

Thank you, NetGalley and Atria Books, for the eARC. 

#NightTravelers #NetGalley

Misfire by Tammy Euliano - Book Review

Misfire by Tammy Euliano

Series: Kate Downey 

Genre: Medical Thriller 

3.8 Stars 

One Liner: Slow but entertaining 

*****

Kadence is a defibrillator recently approved by FDA. The device misfires, causing heart problems that need immediate correction to save the patient. When the misfires occur in succession, Dr. Kate Downey, an experienced anesthesiologist, suspects foul play. When her Aunt Irm also suffers from the misfire, Kate knows she needs to do something about it. 

Christian O'Donnell, Kate’s friend and lawyer, is working with a client who wants to buy Kadence and other new medical aids created by the University team. Kate updates him about the issues, and they decide to investigate the cause with help from detective Garner. 

Can Kate get to the bottom of the issue and save the patients fitted with Kadence? What does she have to do to protect the patients from being killed by a life-saving device? 

The story comes from Kate’s POV. 

My Thoughts: 

The book is presented as a standalone though it has characters from the previous novel Fatal Intent. While it does work on its own to an extent, the subplot will be more effective if you read book one, especially since it has a significant space in this one. 

I read Fatal Intent more than a year ago (and forgot most of it). However, I could get into the plot once I remembered the basics. Aunt Irm continues to be my favorite for a valid reason. She is quirky, loving, smart, and gets straight to the point. 

The book is slow; understandable as it has medical jargon and details the reader needs to understand. There are quite a few threads too. This can be overwhelming if the reader wants only a medical thriller and ends up with a blend of family intrigue, romance, murders, kidnapping, and tech crimes. 

There are enough twists and turns to keep us guessing (though I figured it out soon enough). Kate, as usual, takes risks she shouldn’t be taking but survives. The side characters like Nathan and Garner support the plot. 

The scenes in the hospital are my favorite. The author’s experience in the field shows as she presents a realistic picture of the constant stress faced by medical personnel. The book also shows how women in the medical profession are still looked down upon despite their obvious talent. 

The personal track between Kate and Christian was steady enough (and I think I like it better in this one). They make a good team, with Aunt Irm, of course, so I do look forward to more adventures and cases for them to solve. 

To summarize, Misfire is the sequel to Fatal Intent and is best read that way. Enjoy this medical suspense with a touch of romance, a dash of pain, and a not-so-fictional medical aid. The author’s note at the end was enlightening (and a bit scary). 

Thank you, NetGalley and Oceanview Publishing, for the eARC. 

#NetGalley #Misfire 

A Brief Summary of the Best and Worst Reads in 2022

I don't prefer to compile a list of books I've read in a year. This time, I wanted to give it a try and realized why I don't do it. (Too much work!). Still, 2022 has been a good year in terms of reading. I could read different genes and trade a variety of themes. Tried a couple of audiobooks too, which for me, is an achievement. 

Here's a summation of my reads with links to the respective reviews. 

Top 5 Reads of 2022

Absent in the Spring by Mary Westmacott

Genre: Historical Fiction 

Reason: What happens when Joan Scudamore is stranded in an isolated guest house when returning home? With too much time and nothing to do, she begins to see her life as it is and not as she believed it to be. But what if she’s wrong? This book is Christie’s finest work- layered, introspective, and deep. A must-read. 

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4605095748 

***

Kibogo by Scholastique Mukasonga, Mark Polizzotti (Translator)

Genre: Historical Fiction, Novella 

Reason: Kibogo is the recounting of the constant clash between pagan beliefs and missionaries determined to evangelize Rwanda. The unseen narrator presents the distortion of native culture and beliefs through years of colonization. Can be triggering for some, but a worthy read, especially for Indians. You’ll notice many parallels. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/09/kibogo-by-scholastique-mukasonga-book.html 

***

The Condemned Oak Tree by Ada Rossi 

Genre: Literary Fiction 

Reason: Maureen shares her story to reveal secrets she has buried (along with her husband) for years. Beautiful writing, layered plot, and great characterization. This slow book should be savored for the way it aligns nature and human emotions in an understated manner. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/06/the-condemned-oak-tree-by-ada-rossi.html 

***

The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches by Sangu Mandanna – 4.5 Stars 

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Fantasy 

Reason: Mika Moon is an adorable witch without a family to call her own. She accepts an offer to train three kid witches, which could give her everything she ever wanted or break her heart all over again. The Very Secret Society of Irregular Witches is a sweet witchy book with loveable characters and slow-burn romance. It’s a perfect read for a lazy afternoon.

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/07/the-very-secret-society-of-irregular.html 

***

Crime Writer by Dime Sheppard – Five Stars 

Genre: Romcom, Thriller, Contemporary 

Reason: What happens when an author’s characters come alive and exhibit free will? This is quirky, funny, dark, emotional, action-intensive, and super entertaining. A tasty kichadi indeed. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/12/crime-writer-by-dime-sheppard-book.html 

*****

Top 5 Anthologies of 2022 

How We Disappear: Novella & Stories by Tara Lynn Masih – 4.3 Stars 

Genre: Literary Fiction 

Reason: This collection of short stories is dark and brooding. The thread of melancholy makes the collection a heavy read but one that’s worth a read and a revisit. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/07/how-we-disappear-novella-stories-by.html 

***

Silverweed Road by Simon Cook – 4 Stars 

Genre: Horror

Reason: This is a wonderful collection of horror stories with a common theme set in the same creepy society. It is atmospheric, entertaining, and has some chilling stories to make horror fans happy. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/09/silverweed-road-by-simon-crook-book.html 

***

Once Upon a Winter by H.L. Macfarlane & Other Authors- 3.8 Stars 

Genre: Fairytale Retelling, Fantasy 

Reason: The collection is creepy, chilly, horrifying, cute, funny, and whimsical. The stories are intriguing and diverse in their themes and create a compelling read. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/05/once-upon-winter-by-hl-macfarlane-book.html 

***

Trail XIII: Path to Perdition by The Hive* 

Genre: Horror

Reason: The journey through Trail Xiii will take you through thirteen bone-chilling stories strewn along with the putrefying dead bodies. Beware, TRAIL XIII is not for the fainthearted. Tread carefully, for this is the path to perdition. Hush!

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/58753976-trail-xiii---the-path-to-perdition 

***

A Second Cup of Tea by The Hive* 

Genre: Feel-Good Short Stories 

Reason: A Second Cup of Tea will make you laugh, cry, smile, and shake your head with an indulgent smile. From historical to mythical to humor and more- twenty-two writers have come together to brew a perfect blend of tea for every reader.

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/60791836-a-second-cup-of-tea 

*****

Top 5 Children’s Books of 2022 (Illustrated) 

Lore of the Land: Folklore and Wisdom from the Wild Earth by Claire Cock-Starkey – 4.5 Stars 

Reason: Lore of the Land is a beautiful collection of folklore about the earth, nature, and everything she offers. The myths and stories are provided in a single paragraph. The brevity helps retain more information. It’s time we learned from the lore and respected nature. 

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4984380869 

***

What Little Boys Are Made Of: A Modern Nursery Rhyme by Susanna Leonard Hill – 5 Stars 

Reason: What Little Boys Are Made Of is a beautiful and adorable book that breaks stereotypes and gently nudges kids to be confident in their skin. They deserve to be happy and loved.

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4986016572 

***

Hocus Pocus Practice Focus by Amy Kilmat – 4.5 Stars 

Reason: Hocus Pocus Practice Focus is for kids and adults who want to enter the world of magic. I haven’t read any children’s book on this topic, and this one felt like it hit the right notes from start to finish.

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4982196917 

***

Kesar and the Lullaby Birds by Aditi Oza – 4.5 Stars 

Reason: This is so beautiful! The illustrations are so earthy and lively. They show the beauty of the villagers and their artsy houses without erasing the native touch. The detailing of jewelry and attire is spot on.

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4661728046 

***

Into the Dark Forest (The Wildsmith #1) by Liz Flanagan – 4.5 Stars 

Reason: Into the Dark Forest is a heartwarming and adorable story of little Rowan and dragons. Each chapter is short, pacy, and has enough descriptions to paint a picture of the setting and characters.

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5082715222 

*****

Top 5 Nonfiction Reads of 2022

Defence of Hindu Society by Sita Ram Goel – 4.5 Stars 

Genre: Political Nonfiction

Reason: The fact that the book is still relevant even today is all we need to know. There’s nothing respectable about being a doormat for others to walk over. Be assertive and read more. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/12/defence-of-hindu-society-by-sita-ram.html 

***

Naham Karta Hari Karta by PVRK Prasad – 4.5 Stars 

Genre: Memoir 

Reason: This book is a collection of incidents from the author’s 4-year stint at Tirupati as the EO of TTD. What I love the most is how Prasad Garu doesn’t shy away from expressing his emotions or sharing certain parts of his past. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/10/naham-karta-hari-karta-by-pvrk-prasad.html 

***

Giant Genius Bhyrappa and Mirrors of His Novels by MS Vijaya Haran – 4.5 Stars 

Genre: Biography (of sorts)

Reason: Giant Genius Bhyrappa and Mirrors of His Novels is a tribute to literary genius and a wonderful way to know more about the man behind many successful novels. He is Bharat’s treasure indeed.

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/08/giant-genius-bhyrappa-and-mirrors-of.html 

***

Powered by Plants by Clive Gifford – 4.5 Stars 

Genre: Science, Nature 

Reason: The book is detailed and has beautiful illustrations. Every page is bright, colorful, and cheerful. The expressions on some plants are hilarious. It is a must-read for little ones and adults. After all, we need to respect and accept nature as supreme before we ‘protect’ her.

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4879211809 

***

Happy Stories for Nature Lovers by Dawn Casey – 4.5 Stars 

Genre: Nature, Inspirational 

Reason: Happy Stories for Nature Lovers is a short and informative book, a starting point for kids and adults to become eco-conscious and do their bit to co-exist with nature. The illustrations are earthy, adorable, and wonderful. The touch of native rawness blends perfectly with the content. 

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/5005537421 

*****

Worst 5 Reads of 2022 

Kaikeyi by Vaishnavi Patel – 1 Star 

Genre: ‘Feminist Mythological Retelling’ 

Reason: The book is supposedly a feminist retelling of Ramayana from Kaikeyi’s POV. Calling it far-fetched fan fiction with a Hinduphobic narrative would be an apt description. The book is an insult to the countless women Raavan abused. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/03/kaikeyi-by-vaishnavi-patel-book-review.html 

***

Year of Wonders by Geraldine Brooks – 1 Star 

Genre: Historical Fiction (Black Death) 

Reason: The book is about how a village quarantined itself during Black Death to stop the spread of the virus and prevent more deaths. It is supposedly inspired by real stories. However, the book deals with a multitude of issues and makes a mess of the second half. Never did I hate a happy ending as much as I did in this one. 

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4927855642 

***

Where the Crawdads Sing by Delia Owens – 2.5 Stars 

Genre: Historical Drama 

Reason: This is a much-loved book (now being made into a movie), and I went into it with great expectations. The best I can say about this is that you can ignore the story and read the filler (about marsh, nature, etc.). You’ll enjoy it more that way. 

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4488524946 

***

The Island of Missing Trees by Elif Shafak – 2.5 Stars 

Genre: Romance, Dual Timeline, Social Drama (and a failed attempt at magic realism)

Reason: Yet another highly acclaimed book that tries to do too much and doesn’t succeed at anything. The only thing I like is the premise and the backdrop of the civil war in Cyprus, between the Turks and Greeks. 

Review: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show/4242664336 

***

Can't Look Away by Carola Lovering – 2 Stars 

Genre: Drama (that tries to be a thriller), Dual Timeline 

Reason: If only I looked away from this book! The characters are immature. There is too much info dump and almost zero intrigues to be called a thriller. One of those boring books you want to get over with and forget. 

Review: https://sri-lovenature.blogspot.com/2022/06/cant-look-away-by-carola-lovering-book.html 

*****

And... that's done. Hoping for a more fulfilling reading experience in 2023. Does this list any of your favorite (or not-so-favorite) books? What are your top 5 reads for 2022? 

On a side note, I'm participating in the #TBRChallenge by Blogchatter for 2023. 

Have a happy new year. 

*****

Disclaimer: I’m a co-founder and managing partner at The Hive Publishers. You are helping indie authors by supporting the books.