Musings of a Bookish Kitty: March 2017

Wednesday, March 29, 2017

Bookish Thoughts: Read to Death by Terrie Farley Moran

In the parking lot of the Read 'Em and Eat Cafe and Book Corner, I stood by the side of a sky blue van with oversized white letters advertising the "Gulf Coast Cab and Van" etched on the center door panel. ~ Opening of Read to Death

Read to Death (A Read 'Em and Eat Mystery #3) by Terrie Farley Moran

Berkley, 2016

Crime Fiction (Cozy); 304 pgs

Source: NetGalley

Goodreads Summary:

The national bestselling author of Caught Read-Handed revisits Fort Myers Beach, Florida, where the proprietors of a local bookstore café occasionally take a stab at solving murder...

At their seaside Read ‘Em and Eat bookstore café, Sassy Cabot and Bridgy Mayfield offer fresh scones, great books, and excellent detective work…

With their book club season wrapping up with The Florida Life of Thomas Edison, Sassy and Bridgy decide to take their group on a day trip to the beautiful Edison and Ford Winter Estates. Hiring driver Oscar Frieland, who’s known for his colorful stories and love of the café’s Robert Frost fruit tartlets, the bibliophiles set off for a day of sunshine and history.

After a lovely excursion, the club returns to the café for lunch and a book discussion, but the group falls silent after Oscar is found dead in his van. The sheriff’s deputies have some questions of their own for the group, and if the ladies don’t find some answers soon, the next book they read might be from a prison library.

What book lover would not want to eat at a place called Read ‘Em and Eat Bookstore Café? One of my favorite parts of this book was hearing the menu items--all named after books and authors. The tables themselves were named after authors. Read to Death was my February TBR List poll winner, and it was nice to finally meet Sassy and Bridgy.

I haven't yet read the previous books in the series, but Read to Death is a self-contained novel for the most part. I wouldn't have minded having a little more background on both the novel's narrator Sassy and her best friend and business partner, Bridgy, however. I kind of want Sassy's job though from what I do know about her! Of course, how she finds time to read for all the book clubs she helps facilitate I have to wonder given her penchant for solving crimes in the area and working at the café. To the author's credit, there is a scene where Sassy does settle in with a book--something you rarely see in novels about readers.

I enjoyed getting to know a little bit about Ft. Myers, Florida and hanging out with Sassy, Bridgy, Miguel, and Ophie. No cozy is complete with at least one eccentric character and Ophie fits the bill perfectly. I quite enjoyed her appearances, and it is clear she loves her niece Bridgy. In Read to Death, the reader also gets to meet Sassy and Bridgy's mothers too--who are a fun pair; Sassy's mother Sage (at least that's her current name), in particular, who can see people's auras.

From near the start of the novel, it is clear that Sassy has a habit of stepping on the toes of the local law enforcement officials, unable to help herself from nosing around their investigations. Sassy sees nothing wrong it. All she wants to do in this case is uncover the truth of what happened to their bus driver, Oscar, when her best friend seems to be the prime suspect in his murder. One can't really blame her, I suppose. I found it interesting how she seemed to always be one step ahead of the police.

I enjoyed reading Read to Death, although I wasn't quite as enamored with it as I hoped I would be. I found it to be a little slow going at times, the mystery taking a back seat to Sassy and Bridgy's efforts to keep their mothers occupied during their visit. I also wish Sassy was a bit more forthcoming and cooperative with the police. It makes me wonder if I was missing a piece from a previous book.

To learn more about Terrie Farley Moran and her work, please visit the author's website.

© 2017, Wendy Runyon of Musings of a Bookish Kitty. All Rights Reserved. If you're reading this on a site other than Musings of a Bookish Kitty or Wendy's feed, be aware that this post has been stolen and is used without permission.

Monday, March 27, 2017

Where Is Your Bookmark? (03/28/2017)

I am doing a bit of binge reading as of late, devouring Juliette Cross's books featuring the Morgon. I currently am reading Waking the Dragon, a fantasy romantic suspense novel.

Goodreads Summary:

The Gladium Province is on the verge of civil unrest as humans and Morgons, the dragon-hybrid race, clash once more. But amid disorder can also arise passion.

When the bodies of three human women are discovered in Morgon territory—with the DNA of several Morgon men on the victims—it’s just a matter of time before civil unrest hits the Province. But for ambitious reporter Moira Cade, it’s more than just a story, and it may mean risking her own life.

Descending into the dark underworld of Morgon society, Moira is paired with Kol Moonring, Captain of the Morgon Guard, for her protection. Fiercely independent, Moira bristles at his dominance, and defies his will at every turn. Yet resistance proves futile when passion flares between them, awakening powerful emotions within both, body and soul. But as the killings continue, can their fiery newfound bond survive an even greater evil—one that threatens all of humanity, Morgonkind, and Moira’s very soul?

Every Tuesday Diane from Bibliophile By the Sea First Chapter First Paragraph Tuesday Intros, where participants share the first paragraph (or a few) of a book they are reading or thinking about reading soon. It is also where I share my first impressions about the book I am sharing.

Tick.

The beautiful blonde froze. Silence.

She peered down the darkened corridor of the cellar beneath the Vaengar Stadium. No one.

Every Tuesday, Ambrosia from The Purple Booker hosts Teaser Teaser at which participants grab their current read, open to a random page, and share two or more sentences from that page while avoiding any spoilers.

Teaser from 19% of Waking the Dragon:

Fire lanced up my body, filling my cheeks. "Look, Kol." I refused to even give him the respect of authority. "You don't know me. you don't know what I write or why I write, so stay out of my world and out of my damn business."

and from 22%:

Lorian clasped both hands together on the table, leaning forward. "You do realize that in order to lead us to the others, we'd have to let him abduct you."

"Yes."

What do you think? Would you keep reading?

I am enjoying this series so far. It's quite intense and, in this latest novel, the stakes are even higher.

Sunday, March 26, 2017

Bookish Thoughts: As You Wish by Cary Elwes, Joe Layden

Standing onstage at Alice Tully Hall at Lincoln Center, surrounded by cast members and some of the crew, many of whom I've not seen in years, I feel an almost overwhelming sense of gratitude and nostalgia. ~ Opening of As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride

As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride by Cary Elwes, Joe Layden

Audible, 2014

Nonfiction; 7 hrs, 1 min
Source: Purchased for my own reading pleasure.

Goodreads Summary:

From actor Cary Elwes, who played the iconic role of Westley in The Princess Bride, comes a first-person account and behind-the-scenes look at the making of the cult classic film filled with never-before-told stories, exclusive photographs, and interviews with costars Robin Wright, Wallace Shawn, Billy Crystal, Christopher Guest, and Mandy Patinkin, as well as author and screenwriter William Goldman, producer Norman Lear, and director Rob Reiner.

It was my husband-then-boyfriend's favorite movie, and I had never seen it until after meeting him. I thought it was okay, but nothing special. I fell in love with the soundtrack, however, and would listen to it over and over again. The more I watched The Princess Bride, the more I began to like it. After reading and falling utterly and helplessly in love with William Goldman's book on which the movie is based, I began to love the movie too. It might not have been love at first sight, but it is a lasting love.

The book, As You Wish offers an inside look at the filming, both on and off camera, of The Princess Bride movie from Cary Elwes point of view. He is extremely humble and appreciative of the film and how it helped his career. I am glad I had the opportunity to listen to the audio version, which honestly, is probably the only way I would have taken this one in. It seems to be the right choice too, given all the guest appearances by other crew and stars from the movie.

The Princess Bride did not gain instant success upon release. The marketing department wasn't sure how to market the film and it wasn't until quite a while later that the movie really took off and gained a loyal following. It is not a cult favorite, enjoyed by families through the generations. Hearing about the process and the reactions of those involved with the making of the film was quite interesting.

The book is funny and at times sentimental. It sounds like everyone involved in the movie was well invested and had a great time bringing it together. The author was nervous and, rightfully so given Hollywood's history of translating books to film, but hearing how happy he was with the final project just adds to the greatness of it. From stories about Andre the Giant to learning how to sword fight and the kissing scene with Robin Wright, the Pit of Despair--everything, really--had me smiling and laughing and nodding my head as I listened. And I just love Cary Elwes's voice. Doesn't everyone though?

I watched the film again after finishing the book, having a new appreciation for the cast and their experience. Certain moments stood out like they hadn't before--and yet it was so easy to get lost in the film. . . They really did a seamless job of putting it together. It really is a sweet and funny movie. And it is no wonder this book is a hit among the fans of the movie.

To learn more about author Cary Elwes and his work, please visit his Facebook Page.

Saturday, March 25, 2017

Sunday Post: Too Many New Books & A Tea Party

New to My Shelves: My friend Nicole shared a link of e-books that were on sale for one day earlier in the week, and I made the mistake of clicking through. I ended up buying four books. It would have been more, but I decided I needed to practice moderation. Not that my definition of moderation matches anyone else's . . .

White Rage: The Unspoken Truth About Our Racial Divide by Carol Anderson

The Dollhouse by Fiona Davis

Behold the Dreamers by Imbolo Mbue

Three Wishes by Lianne Moriarty

In my rush to post last week, I forgot to mention that I had purchased e-copies of

Dear Ijeawele, or a Feminist Manifesto in Fifteen Suggestions by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie

The Fifth Season (The Broken Earth, #1) by N.K. Jemisin

Long Road Home by Marie Meyer

I also forgot to list the book I bought at Barnes & Noble the other week when we stopped by for my daughter's free birthday cupcake.

Sleepwalker by Chris Bohjalian

So yeah, maybe I overdid the book buying in March.

What I Am Reading: I am binge reading the Nightwing trilogy by Juliette Cross at the moment, reading the final book, Nighbloom. They are more novella size, and so fairly quick reads. They fall in the romance fantasy category featuring hybrid dragons.

What I Am Watching: I am caught up with The Voice and until Sunday night, The Walking Dead (and then I'll be behind again). We're getting down to the end of the season, and I am anxious to see how it plays out. Is anyone else watching Time After Time about Jack the Ripper and H.G. Wells? I saw the first two episodes, and the jury is still out.

What's Going On Off the Blog: The girls celebrated the end of cookie season with a lavish catered tea party, and fun was had by all.

The girls table for the tea party

The food table

The adults' table at the tea party

Mouse and I also joined the troop in seeing Beauty and the Beast in the theater (our second time). Everyone seemed to enjoy it. The girls all had on princess dresses. Mouse lost her book down the side of the chair, and the movie theater staff went way above and beyond in search of it. Including taking the theater recliner apart. I was ready to give it up for lost, but my tearful daughter had the staff in the theater wanting to help her no matter what it took. I made sure the manager knew how much we appreciated their efforts. They really are wonderful. Yeah, I know I shouldn't have let her take the book in. But it was a book. And I always have a book with me. I learned my lesson. Hopefully she did too. Although somehow, I don't think so. They did retrieve the book, by the way, which was well stuffed inside the side of the theater recliner.

Around the Blogosphere:

Up Close and (un)Conventional – Religion in Books - In which Lexxie opens a discussion about religion in the fiction she reads.
The Full Moon at the Napping House by Audrey Wood - Everyone in our house loves The Napping House. I had no idea there was a sequel! Thanks to Ronyell for bringing it to my attention.
Ramblings from the Stacks - Series Reading and Genre Fatigue - Katherine talks about the very real problem of genre fatigue.
Discussion: Why Do Some Books Make Us More Emotional Than Others? - Kristen wants to know if you are an emotional reader and why it is some books bring out our emotions and others don't.

This Week In Reading Mews:

Tell me about what you have been up to! What are you reading, listening to and watching? How was your week? Do you have anything planned for this coming week?

Every Friday Coffee Addicted Writer from Coffee Addicted Writer poses a question which participants respond on their own blogs within the week (Friday through Thursday). They then share their links at the main site and visit other participants blogs.

How do you handle negative comments left on your blog?

Fortunately, this is not something I have had to deal with very often. Most people who take the time to comment on my blog are very respectful and friendly--even when we disagree. I do not expect everyone who visits my blog to agree with my opinions, and I enjoy a good discussion. I like hearing other views, and respect other opinions. Of course, those I don't really consider negative comments. I see a negative comment more as a personal attack or if someone were to be verbally abusive or disrespectful toward me or another commenter. In those instances, I would exercise my right to not publish the offensive comment. Rudeness is not something I will tolerate.

What about you? Have you ever received negative comments on your blog? What did you handle it?

Every Sunday, Kendra Allen of Reads and Treats comes up with a theme for a Sunday list of 5 things (because making lists are fun!) and asks participants to share.

Today's 5 Things on Sunday theme is what my pet would say. I have two cats, and they are both quite vocal.

1. I imagine the constant mews I get on weekend mornings when I am trying to sleep in a little mean something like, "Wake up and feed me, you insolent human!"

2. While I try to tell myself the meows from my orange tabby as I get ready for work in the mornings are simply him saying good morning, it's probably more along the same lines as #1.

3. My younger cat can be very talkative too. I can hear her mewing throughout the house, and my best guess is she is looking for me: "Human Mama, where are you? You know I don't like to be left alone for long."

4. She also likes to meow at me when she wants attention: "Pet me! I'm right here. See me rolling on the floor? Scratch my belly, please. Right now!"

5. Or, more than likely, both my cats are telling me how much they love and admire me and wish I would sit down so they can cuddle with me for awhile.

Do you have a pet? What do you think they are trying to tell you?

I hope you all have a great week! Happy Reading!

The Sunday Post is hosted by the wonderful Kimba, the Caffeinated Book Reviewer, and gives us all a chance to recap our week, talk about what we are reading, share any new books that have come our way, and whatever else we want to talk about.

Wednesday, March 22, 2017

Bookish Thoughts: The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See

"No coincidence, no story," my a-ma recites, and that seems to settle everything, as it usually does, after First Brother finishes telling us about the dream he had last night. ~ Opening of The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane

The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane by Lisa See

Scribner, 2017

Fiction; 384 pgs
Source: I received an e-copy of this book in exchange for using the mobile app JellyBooks a try. No review of the book was requested or required.

Goodreads Summary:

A thrilling new novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Lisa See explores the lives of a Chinese mother and her daughter who has been adopted by an American couple.

Li-yan and her family align their lives around the seasons and the farming of tea. There is ritual and routine, and it has been ever thus for generations. Then one day a jeep appears at the village gate—the first automobile any of them have seen—and a stranger arrives.

In this remote Yunnan village, the stranger finds the rare tea he has been seeking and a reticent Akha people. In her biggest seller, Snow Flower and the Secret Fan, See introduced the Yao people to her readers. Here she shares the customs of another Chinese ethnic minority, the Akha, whose world will soon change. Li-yan, one of the few educated girls on her mountain, translates for the stranger and is among the first to reject the rules that have shaped her existence. When she has a baby outside of wedlock, rather than stand by tradition, she wraps her daughter in a blanket, with a tea cake hidden in her swaddling, and abandons her in the nearest city.

After mother and daughter have gone their separate ways, Li-yan slowly emerges from the security and insularity of her village to encounter modern life while Haley grows up a privileged and well-loved California girl. Despite Haley’s happy home life, she wonders about her origins; and Li-yan longs for her lost daughter. They both search for and find answers in the tea that has shaped their family’s destiny for generations.

A powerful story about a family, separated by circumstances, culture, and distance, Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane paints an unforgettable portrait of a little known region and its people and celebrates the bond that connects mothers and daughters.

Lisa See's Snow Flower and the Secret Fan is one of my all-time favorite novels, and I have to say, The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane is just as good. Just as powerful. Just as amazing.

This novel introduces readers to the Akha minority in China who live in remote mountain villages, sticking with the old traditions and life, long into the modern era. They are not immune, however, to the growing commercialism and modern technology of the world today. Tradition meets modernization. It is both bitter and sweet. Lisa See captures all of this in her novel as we see the community change through the eyes of Li-yan and her family.

Li-yan's teacher, Zhang, takes an interest in her, as she's proven to have an aptitude for success in school. He is a remnant from the Cultural Revolution years before, forced from the city to a rural area where he has since made his home.

The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane is rich in history as well as culture. Although tea is not something I drink often or know much about, I could not help but become more and more curious, reading about the collection of leaves and the fermenting process of tea produced in the Yunnan Province. The growing popularity in Pu'er' tea, not just in China but world-wide puts the province on the map. Author Lisa See weaves these historical tidbits into the novel in such a way as to make them an essential part of the novel, never boring, and always fascinating.

The first part of the novel takes place during Li-yan's childhood. The reader gets a good feel for her life and family, and also about the Akha culture and beliefs. It was in this early part of the novel I came across a scene that broke my heart into tiny pieces. I had to set the book aside for awhile after that. Whenever we hear or read a story, we always carry with us our own values and personal stories. We can try to set them aside or at least be aware of them when reading about another culture, but there are certain practices and beliefs we may still struggle with or come into direct conflict with our own. I found that to be true reading Jesmyn Ward's Salvage the Bones when it came to the dog fighting. Lisa See's book might have found me in the same place (completely different scenario/no dog fighting), but Li-yan's own struggle with it helped with that. In fact, that one incident is what shapes Li-yan's future choices, for better or worse.

The novel follows Li-yan into her adulthood, as she gives birth to a child, makes the painful choice to abandon the child, and later search out the child. It is a heartbreaking story. Li-yan's culture plays a huge part in the initial choice she makes.

In alternating chapters, readers are introduced to Haley, Li-yan's daughter, who is adopted by a white American family. I liked how Lisa See shares Haley's story alongside her mother's, a chance to see some of the cultural struggles Haley faced, not only as an adopted child but also being raised by parents of a different ethnicity.

This is a beautiful novel that covers a lot of ground. It is well researched and touches on many issues that would make this one perfect for a book club discussion. Lisa See has a gift for creating such real characters and offering us an intimate view into their lives. It is impossible not to become emotionally invested in these characters' lives. The Tea Girl of Hummingbird Lane has so much heart; it is a story about mothers and daughters and the strong bonds of family. It is about tradition as well as progress. And it is about love and fate, as well as being about our choices and their consequences. I loved this book from beginning to end. I hope you will too if you read it.

You can learn more about Lisa See and her books on the author's website. You can also find her on Twitter and Facebook.

Monday, March 20, 2017

Where Is Your Bookmark? (03/21/2017)

I currently am reading The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens, which is about a college student, Joe, who decides to interview a man convicted of rape and murder for a class assignment. The subject of his paper is a war hero, having served in Vietnam. Could he really be a cold blooded murderer too? As Joe digs deeper for his assignment, he also must deal with his own present day drama--an alcoholic mother and an autistic brother who demand his time and energy as well.

I remember being pestered by a sense of dread as I walked to my car that day, pressed down by a wave of foreboding that swirled around my head and broke against the evening in small ripples. There are people in this world who would call that kind of feeling a premonition, a warning from some internal third eye that can see around the curve of time. I've never been one to buy into such things. But I will confess that there have been times when I think back to that day and wonder: if the fates had truly whispered in my ear--if I had known how that drive would change so many things--would I have taken a safer path? Would I turn left where before I had turned right? Or would I still travel the path that led me to Carl Iverson?

Teaser from page 67 of The Life We Bury:

"He didn't do it," Vigil [sic] snapped. "He pointed to the phone number on his card. "You call me. We'll talk."

What do you think? Would you keep reading?

I could not help but wonder what would cause our main character to doubt his choices in that opening paragraph. It certainly hooked me instantly.

What are you reading at the moment? Is it anything you would recommend?

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by the lovely ladies at Broke and Bookish.

This week's Top Ten Tuesday Top Ten Books Read In One Sitting Theme. It's rare that I have time to read a book in a day anymore. It's been rare for years now. Not for lack of wanting to, but because, well, life. In the spirit of today's theme, I went with the shortest books I've read in the last four years that certainly could be read in one sitting, even if you lead a busy life.

1.

Monstress, Volume One: Awakening by Marjorie Liu and Sana Takeda ~ I haven't posted my review of this one yet, but it was awesome. It is a graphic novel, so perfect for when you have an hour or two to spend reading.

2.

Rebecca Chastain's gargoyle series make perfect bite sized reads if you are short on time. And there are three of them (Magic of the Gargoyles, Curse of the Gargoyles and Secret of the Gargoyles)! I have only read two so far, but I have the third ready to read soon.

3.

While not exactly a quick read, if you want something short, beautiful and sad, I highly recommend The Story of a Brief Marriage by Anuk Arudpragasam.

4.

The Ocean At the End of the Lane by Neil Gaiman has a nice mix of mystery, horror and fantasy. It was impossible to put this one down when I started reading it.

5.

Rebecca Walker's Adé: A Love Story is beautifully written and unforgettable.

6.

Paradise Drive by Rebecca Foust is a collection of interconnected poems. I not only read this once in one sitting--but twice. It was that good.

7.

Duke City Split by Max Austin is a fun crime fiction novel that is action packed from the start, and doesn't let up until the end.

8.

If I Stay by Gayle Foreman was a surprise hit for me. I didn't except to like it as much as I did.

9.

The Wanderer in Unknown Realms by John Connolly was my first taste of the author's work and what a taste it was! Horror is a genre I can be very picky about and this story won me over instantly.

10.

Royal Enchantment by Lia Davis ~ A romantic fantasy novel that swept me off my feet from the start.

What are some short books that would make perfect one sitting reads?

Sunday, March 19, 2017

Bookish Thoughts: A Death By Any Other Name by Tessa Arlen

Coming home after a holiday is almost as enjoyable as the holiday itself, Edith Jackson surveyed the familiar comfort of her bedroom and parlor, her eyes lingering over beloved objects that she had collected over the years. ~ Opening of A Death By Any Other Name

A Death by Any Other Name (Lady Montfort, #3) by Tessa Arlen

Minotaur Books, 2017

Crime Fiction (Cozy); 336 pgs
Source: E-copy provided by the publisher for review.

Publisher's Summary:

The elegant Lady Montfort and her redoubtable housekeeper Mrs. Jackson's services are called upon after a cook is framed and dismissed for poisoning a guest of the Hyde Rose Society. Promising to help her regain her job and her dignity, the pair trek out to the countryside to investigate a murder of concealed passions and secret desires. There, they are to discover a villain of audacious cunning among a group of mild-mannered, amateur rose-breeders. While they investigate, the rumor mill fills with talk about a conflict over in Prussia where someone quite important was shot. There is talk of war and they must race the clock to solve the mystery as the idyllic English summer days count down to the start of WWI.

While the last two murder investigations Countess Clementine Talbot, better known as Lady Montfort, and her housekeeper Mrs. Jackson got involved in were closer to home--and easy to excuse their involvement in--this time around the two women step way out of the usual circles--right into the middle class. When a former cook from a well to do middle class family approaches Mrs. Jackson about her circumstances, Mrs. Jackson has mixed feelings. The cook claims she was let go because of a death in the household, allegedly the result of accidental food poisoning. Only, the cook isn't so sure it was an accident, and she is hoping Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson can find a way to clear her name. Mrs. Jackson is as reluctant as ever to get involved, but the same cannot be said for Lady Montfort who seems to like sticking her nose into these most serious matters.

As always, it was a joy to spend time with Mrs. Jackson and Lady Monfort. I love how proper Mrs. Jackson is. She takes her role as head housekeeper very seriously and does not like to meddle where she doesn't belong. And yet the always curious and determined Lady Montfort manages to talk her into it every time.

Using a well-known guest visiting the Montfort estate to gain an invite to the Hyde Rose Society, Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson find themselves among an interesting group of people, all aspiring hybrid rose breeders. They all feel very passionately about their roses, the two learn rather quickly. Among the group, is the widow of the dead man. The group arrange for a competition with their well known guest, Ms. Jekyll, as the judge. She's not altogether happy about the idea, not being a fan of hybrid roses, but she goes along with it just the same. Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson do there best to get to know everyone and learn the facts of surrounding the popular member's death. The reader gets a definite flavor of the class differences between the characters, most often through Lady Montfort and Mrs. Jackson's observations as they talk with the guests, the hostess and the staff.

I admit to not especially caring for many of those in the Hyde Rose Society. They each have their own possible motives for the possible murder. And the man of the house, especially, is a despicable character. He treats his wife very poorly.

In the background of events at Hyde Castle is the possibility of war. Germany has invaded Poland and set its sights on France. Lady Montfort is worried about all her children, one who is traveling by sea to the Baltics and another who is living in France with her young children and husband. Lady Montfort's son is a pilot, flying for Churchill. All their lives are about to irrevocably change and the tension is high. In each one of her novels, I have appreciated how well Tessa Arlen captures the time period, both in historical detail but also in the more social and psychological aspect.

I wasn't quite as taken with this third addition to the series as the first two, although it was still a very enjoyable read. I felt as if there were some loose ends not tied up in regards to events at Hyde Castle. It was definitely interesting to see Lady Montfort and even Mrs. Jackson out of their elements a bit. They certainly had their work cut out for them! I loved the literary references added into the novel. This continues to be one of my favorite cozy historical mystery series, and I am eager to see what Tessa Arlen has in store for us next!

About the Author: TESSA ARLEN is the author of Death of a Dishonorable Gentleman. She is the daughter of a British diplomat, and had lived in or visited her parents in Singapore, Berlin, the Persian Gulf, Beijing, Delhi and Warsaw by the time she was sixteen. She came to the U.S. in 1980 and worked as an H.R. recruiter for the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee for the 1984 Olympic Games, where she interviewed her future husband for a job. She lives in Bainbridge Island, Washington.

Many thanks to the publisher for the opportunity to be a part of this tour!

Saturday, March 18, 2017

Sunday Post: A Jump Start on Spring

New to My Shelves: The March My Lit Box came my way this month. It's always a treat to find my subscription box in the mail. This box included a copy of Angie Thomas's The Hate U Give, which has been getting good reviews. The subject matter is very relevant to today.

What I Am Reading: I stayed up Friday night finishing The Book Club Murders by Leslie Nagel. Those of you voted for it as my March read, have good taste! I am in the middle of Allen Esken's The Life We Bury, which is also very good. I am not reading as much as I had hoped this month, but then, I kind of expected that. I went five days without cracking open a book--not even on my e-reader. How terrible is that?! When I finally did find time to read after that long absence away, I felt such joy and peace when I settled into my book.

What I Am Watching: We went to see the new Beauty and the Beast this weekend after Mouse's soccer class. Oh my gosh, what fun! We all enjoyed it very much.

What's Going On Off the Blog: While some of you have been buried under more snow, spring has definitely decided to push winter aside early here. The weather has been beautiful. Most days we open our windows now. It did reach over 90 one day this past week, but we decided against starting up the air conditioner just yet. We are expecting more rain this coming week.

One of the trees in my yard

Mouse had a blast at her birthday party last weekend. We hosted it at a local pizza/game restaurant, and it was worth every penny. We had family in from out of town to celebrate as well. Things are just now getting back to normal.

Making birthday cupcakes for her class

Mouse's family birthday cake

Since we last "talked" there was a Girl Scout meeting, soccer classes, homework, mailing my postcards on the 15th, work meetings, and all the other usual activities. Mouse brought her report card home this past week. Parker isn't feeling too well as of late, and a visit to the veterinarian may be in order soon. That's really about all the news I have right now.

Tell me about what you have been up to! What are you reading, listening to and watching? How was your week? Do you have anything planned for this coming week?

Do you read a lot of diverse or own voices books? Why or why not?

While I enjoy reading books in which I share a similar world view or lifestyle, I also really like to read books featuring diversity or by diverse authors. I love stepping outside my own reality and lifestyle through books and seeing the world a bit differently than what I'm used to. I confess I do not read as many books of diversity as I would like to, but I am making an effort to do so. It is one of the reasons I subscribe to the My Lit Box, which focuses on promoting authors of color. I do not have a good excuse for not reading more diversely than I do, other than perhaps the sheer volume of books out there I want to read, many of which don't fall into the diverse category. And frankly, the genres I gravitate most toward could use more diversity. It's there if you look, but not always easy to find.

For a number of years, particularly before I began blogging, it was something I never thought about at all. It wasn't until I started more closely tracking my reading that I began paying more attention to diversity in my reading. I think reading outside one's own "voice" or experience is important, especially in this day and age. Gaining insight and learning about other ways of life, cultures, beliefs, traditions, and ideas only benefits us. Reading diversely challenges me to think differently and more compassionately. Diversity in books empower and normalize those who may feel forgotten, invisible or marginalized by providing voices that are sorely lacking in the majority of mainstream literature. And, most importantly, reading diversely isn't just about acknowledging and celebrating differences, but also in recognizing how alike we are deep down inside. We are all humans, after all. Diversity in books is a good thing, and I am glad to see more of a movement out there to bring diversity in books to the forefront.

What about you? Do you read a lot of diverse books?

Every Sunday, Kendra Allen of Reads and Treats comes up with a theme for a Sunday list of 5 things (because making lists are fun!) and asks participants to share.

Today's 5 Things on Sunday theme is my favorite songs. Always a tough one because my favorites are always changing. I'm going to go with the current top five songs on my playlist. At least for this week.

1. Demons by Imagine Dragons

2. Anyway by Martina McBride

3. Hello by Adele

4. Piece by Piece by Kelly Clarkson

5. Girl on Fire by Alicia Keys

What songs are you listening to a lot these days?

I hope you all have a great week! Happy Reading!

Monday, March 13, 2017

My March TBR List Winner

Thank you for helping me decide what book from my TBR collection I should read next:

My TBR List is a meme hosted by the awesome Michelle at Because Reading. It’s a fun way to choose a book from your TBR pile to read. The 1st Sunday of every month, I will list 3 books I am considering reading and take a poll as to which you think I should read. I will read the winner that month, and my review will follow. While I will attempt to post my review that same month, I make no promises--it may go up the following month.

Votes were opened a couple days longer than usual this month due to my hectic schedule. I didn't want to delay sharing the winner with your any further, however. Many thanks to all who voted in the poll. All three of these books sound good!

Toured to Death by Hy Conrad and The Readaholics and the Gothic Gala by Laura DiSilverio tied for second place, each bringing in six votes a piece (24% each). The winner by a majority 52% with 13 votes is . . . .

The Book Club Murders by Leslie Nagel stars Charley Carpenter, owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, who joins the Agatha's Book Club in an effort to win over customers in the small town she calls home. What she doesn't expect is the murder of two of the club's members in styles eerily like murders fashioned after books on the club's mystery book list.

Thank you again for voting! I look forward to sharing my thoughts with you when I am done reading it!

I hope you all have a great week! I will be back to blogging and blog visiting again next week. Happy Reading!

Saturday, March 04, 2017

Sunday Post: New Books for Mouse & My March TBR Poll (More Cozy Choices!)

New to My Mouse's Shelves: My Scholastic book catalogs are dangerous. This last time, my daughter circled all but one or two books in the catalog she brought home. I was very clear with her that we could not buy all the books, but that I would buy her some of them.

Princess! Fairy! Ballerina! by Bethanie Deeny Murguia
Trolls: It's Hug Time by Barbara Layman
One Vote, Two Votes, I Vote, You Vote by Bonnie Worth, illustrated by Aristides Ruiz and Joe Mathieu
Fancy Nancy: Spectacular Spectacles by Jane O'Connor
How to Catch the Tooth Fairy by Adam Wallace, illustrated by Andy Elkerton

Aliens Love Dinopants by Claire Freeman and Ben Cort
Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell, illustrated by David Catrow
Henry's Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine and Kadir Nelson
Beautiful by Stacy McAnulty, illustrated by Joanne Lew Vriethoff

Sparkle Words Game (Disney Princess edition)
I am Rosa Parks by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
I am Jackie Robinson by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos

February In Review: February was a pathetic reading month for me, but that's nothing new. I always seem to read less books in February. I finished three-just-for-me books, one of which was an audio book. The rest are children's books, many of which I read multiple times throughout the month.

Solely For Me:

The Devil Takes the Bride by Julia London, narrated by Rosalyn Landor (Audio- Historical Romance)
A Death By Any Other Name by Tessa Arlen (3rd Book in The Lady Monfort mystery series, set in Edwardian England)
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood

Read With My Daughter:

The Nian Monster by Andrea Wang & Alina Chau
My Underpants Rule by Kate Power
Chicka Chicka ABC by Bill Martin, Jr.
I Said No! A Kid-To-Kid Guide to Keeping Your Private Parts Private by Kimberly King and Sue Rama
Wacky Wednesday by Dr. Seuss
Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty and David Roberts
The Journey by Francesca Sanna
The Digging-est Dog by Al Perkins
The Sneetches and Other Stories by Dr. Seuss
What Pet Should I Get? by Dr. Seuss
Frozen by Victoria Saxon
Max the Brave by Ed Vere
The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires
Goldilicious by Victoria Kann
Play With Me by Eloise Wilkin
Bugs Bunny: Too Many Carrots by Jean Lewis

What I Am Reading: I did manage to finish my February TBR List book--but not until this month. I am just about to start The Life We Bury by Allen Eskens, and am looking forward to it. I love a good mystery, and the tie in to the Vietnam War, has me extra interested given my dad's service during that same war.

What I Am Listening To: I am back to being in between audio books at the moment, and haven't yet decided what I'm in the mood to listen to. I am on a roll though! I've already listened to three audiobooks this year, half of what I listened to in the total of 2016.

What I Am Watching: The Voice is back! I am not one for reality television, but I have come to like this show more than I care to admit. I enjoy the positivity and banter between the judges. My daughter tells me one day she will be on The Voice. Both as a contestant and a judge. Maybe at the same time, she says.

What's Going On Off the Blog: A lot. I ended up subbing in for another mom on a cookie sale booth last weekend at the last minute, and then spent the rest of the day with Mouse at her booth. Between Girl Scout meetings, work, homework, and soccer, it has been a busy week. I am behind on responding to comments and blog visiting with so little time to be online. Next week will be even busier with family coming into town and last minute birthday preparations to take care of. I will be taking a short break from blogging as a result.

This Week In Reading Mews:

Bookish Thoughts: Northanger Abbey by Jane Austen

Tell me about what you have been up to! What are you reading, listening to and watching? How was your week? Do you have anything planned for this coming week?

When you start reading a novel, do you prefer to be plunged right into the action, or do you prefer a slower, more descriptive introduction to the plot and characters?

It depends on the book really--and my mood. Sometimes I need a fast paced novel to grab me right from the start and keep me on the roller coaster right up to the very end. Especially when I am a bundle of worry, anxiety or just cannot stop my brain from being in overdrive. A fast paced novel that can get me speeding into the action from the first page is the only thing that can do the trick. Then other times I prefer a novel that will ease me in and let me take in the writing and setting and settle into the novel at a more slower pace. It allows me to slow my mind down and breathe for a little while. Slow starts are tricky though. Too slow a start, and I will lose interest fast. Since I became a parent and my reading time dropped considerably, I am much more picky about books with slower starts. I have read plenty though that have turned into favorites though. Even slower starts can hook me in pretty quickly. Not every book needs to rush in right from the start to get my attention.

In other words, where it goes wrong: Too quick a start can be confusing and jarring. Or set my expectations too high. Too slow a start can be boring. When done right, both can make for excellent--or at least good--reads. Of course, in between both, a balance of the two is good too.

What about you? which kind of start in a book do you prefer? Slow or Fast?

Every Sunday, Kendra Allen of Reads and Treats comes up with a theme for a Sunday list of 5 things (because making lists are fun!) and asks participants to share.

Today's 5 Things on Sunday theme is Words to Describe My Week.

1. Long. By the end of Tuesday, I was convinced it must really be Thursday because how much longer could the week be?!

2. Busy. Very. Busy. And next week will be even more busy. I got this! (I hope.)

3. Relief. I survived February. Now to get through March.

4. Disappointed. I wasn't able to finish the two books I was in the middle of before the end of the month. I had so little reading time, even during my lunch breaks.

5. Anticipation and Anxious. Next week/weekend is a big one for us, and I'm both looking forward to it, and dreading it.

What words would you use to describe your week?

Thank you for helping me decide what book from my TBR collection I should read next:

Like February, March will be an extremely busy month for me and so I thought I would stick with something light. My craving for bookish cozies continues and this month's choices reflect that. I can't wait to see which one you will choose for me to read.

The Readaholics and the Gothic Gala by Laura DiSilverio sounds deliciously atmospheric. Amy-Faye and her fellow readaholic book club members are putting on the Celebration of Gothic Novels, only it doesn't turn out quite the way they intended when a body turns up at their costume party.

Toured to Death by Hy Conrad features mother and daughter team Amy and Fanny Abel whose mystery tour involving a fictional murder the guests must solve becomes all too real when their script writer is found dead in his apartment. A lot is at stake, and there is a murder to be solved.

The Book Club Murders by Leslie Nagel stars Charley Carpenter, owner of Old Hat Vintage Fashions, who joins the Agatha's Book Club in an effort to win over customers in the small town she calls home. What she doesn't expect is the murder of two of the club's members in styles eerily like murders fashioned after books on the club's mystery book list.

Thank you for voting!

I hope you all have a great week. Happy Reading!