Sometimes we can find friendship and books in the most unexpected places. And, when we do, that we not make assumptions about others.
This is truly a Sometimes we can find friendship and books in the most unexpected places. And, when we do, that we not make assumptions about others.
This is truly a book that shows kids not to be so quick to judge others just because of how they may look or act based on what they were “born” to be.
And, even if that wasn’t the intended “learning” lesson, it certainly can be one from this sweetly illustrated book about a flying dragon named Franklin that loved to read.
And, a young girl, named Luna who befriended Franklin and found a way to make books and an unconventional bookshop available to the town.
Here is a book I saw that I knew I needed to read, but wasn’t sure I would want to put on my 카지노싸이트 shelf. B“I never dreamed you had books in you.”
Here is a book I saw that I knew I needed to read, but wasn’t sure I would want to put on my 카지노싸이트 shelf. But now that I have read it, I knew I needed to tell you about it, too.
Why is Russo so attractive to me? I think because I can so easily relate to him. There is so much to his own story that reads as if he is talking directly to me. No, I am not a writer, but I did teach college, like him, and I love when he talks about his experiences. Especially, his early beginnings before he became the writer and the teacher.
“College is, after all, where we go to reinvent ourselves, to sever our ties with the past, to become the person we always wanted to be.”
And, as in any stage of life, and as we grow, we come to appreciate that growth – whether it is good or bad, we are learning more about ourselves.
“I’d made my choice…and there was no going back. I was becoming someone else. Someone better.”
Russo is telling his personal his-story in essays about writing, writers and life. He had intentions of being a teacher when he went to college to get his Ph.D. And, surprisingly, to himself, he ended up a writer, as well as a teacher. Maybe, it was a surprise to everyone else he knew, as well. And, that was the someone better he alluded to above.
I love that personal challenge he gave to himself. And, maybe this was the part that I could relate too so well.
I know that for me, when I was in high school, I also wanted to be a teacher. So, I went to my counselor and asked her what I could do to meet my dream. Instead of encouraging me, she told me I didn’t have what it took to be one. Her news to me was devastating to hear. Why couldn’t she just have told me what I needed to do to be a teacher, instead of discouraging me and saying I could never be one? Thankfully I didn’t let her discouraging words stop me from following my dreams. I went on to teach college for almost 23 years.
Russo writes with humor and heart. He shares honestly about the impact of people that have touched his life. For better or worse. Including himself.
Throughout these essays, readers will get a great sense of who Russo is, what challenged him in creating the characters he did, and his vast humor that encompassed his writing. This became clear in one of his essays, which was actually his address to the graduates of Colby College. Especially when he challenged students with the following question…
“How does a person keep from living the wrong life?”
He also encouraged them to follow ‘Russo’s Rules for a Good Life.’ These rules are amazing! (No spoilers from me.)
These essays are also a look into Russo’s successful career. Just as much as they are his reflections. His life. His musings. His literary friendships.
For anybody who has ever enjoyed his novels, readers will most likely also enjoy a peek behind the scenes of his storytelling.
This is an insightful exploration into the mind of one of my favorite authors. If you haven’t read him before, this might be an opportunity to learn more about him before reading one of his fiction novels. And, if you haven’t read one yet, start with my favorite by him,“Straight Man.” Review here: /review/show......more
This is the first book in the Mitford series. A couple of months ago a Little Free Library steward from the state of Washington came by and dropped ofThis is the first book in the Mitford series. A couple of months ago a Little Free Library steward from the state of Washington came by and dropped off a copy of all the books currently published in this series. I was completely overwhelmed with gratitude with her generous donation. But I never took the time to put this in my currently reading pile on 카지노싸이트 because I wasn’t sure if I would read the books or review them, until now.
I had the pleasure of watching the cute made-for-television Hallmark Hall of Fame movie starring Andie McDowell recently when I opted in on the Hallmark streaming service.
This first book in the series was published in 1994, with this paperback version coming out in 1996.
For anyone who is looking for saccharine sweet faith based small town storytelling this is the book to read.
The story follows Father Tim and his many parishioners in the fictional town of Mitford, North Carolina. He is a long-time minister at Lord’s Chapel. He also finds himself adopted by Barnabas a huge black dog and a young boy named Dooley that is in need of a home. How will this affect his bachelorhood?
And, then there is his neighbor, Cynthia Coppersmith. What emotions will this bring out in Father Tim?
So, which did I prefer the book or the movie?
It was easier for me to fall in love with the movie, as the characters were more believable at 40-something, as opposed to the more mature age given to the Father Tim described in the book. (In the book, he was 60.)
Not that I am not opposed to older people having romances. I have after all been quite charmed by stories with older protagonists lately. But this one didn’t ring as true for me in the book. Still, the author does her best to provide a sense of realism and warmth to her characters.
As a classic book series, this may be more appealing to those who are attracted to books that are faith based.
There is definitely more to these bestselling author’s than writing children’s books. They incorporate within their story their own personal and profeThere is definitely more to these bestselling author’s than writing children’s books. They incorporate within their story their own personal and professional experiences which allows for the story not only to be told from the heart of those experiences, but in a way that helps to educate readers.
Which makes this a compelling, fascinating and realistic reading adventure for kids. As well as an excellent educational tool for parents and teachers. Readers will also find this story, captivating, meaningful, and inspiring.
The authors are also to be commended for their upbeat opening message…
“To all the brave kids who have faced the storms of life – Your resilience, courage, and strength are nothing short of heroic. You remind us all that even in the darkest skies, There’s light and hope within each of us. This story is for you. You are a hero.”
Along with the message of the book, the beautiful illustrations are visually appealing, quite expressive and enhance the story.
For any reader needing to learn about the importance of being prepared for hurricanes, as well as the value of community, they will appreciate the author’s attention to detail.
This book should be a must-read for anyone living in hurricane territory.
Please also note the Certificate of Strength, and a ‘help your family get ready’ checklist at the back of the book.
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
This is a Dolly Parton Imagination Library book, that was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. For those unfamiliar, Dolly Parton creatCatching up…
This is a Dolly Parton Imagination Library book, that was donated to my Little Free Library Shed. For those unfamiliar, Dolly Parton created this program ‘to inspire the love of reading and learning in children.’ The program mails ‘a new, age-appropriate book into the homes of children every month from birth to age five.’
I am so grateful to include this book in my LFL.
This is the story of Tarra, now a retired elephant that worked a circus and some television shows; and, Bella a mixed-breed, sweet dog. At the time of publication, 2009, they lived at the Animal Sanctuary in Tennessee.
When reading this story, please be sure to have Kleenex handy. (Don’t worry, no animals were harmed in this story.)
Tarra was the first elephant to come to the sanctuary in 1995, but it wasn’t until Bella happened along her side, that Tarra had a true friend.
The story shown through photographs and words, tells their story of friendship and companionship.
This will be a wonderful, touching story to read with and/or to children in sharing the unexpected, magical relationships that happen between animals.
After finishing the book, I was curious about the status of Tarra and Bella. Through research, I discovered that Bella passed away in late October, 2011. In November, 2021 Tarra was relocated to the Elephant Refuge North America in Georgia, under the care and supervision of this author.
For more on Tarra’s story with Bella:
For more on Tarra at the Animal Sanctuary in Tennessee and her transfer to Georgia:
Years ago, I was gifted this little book that was also signed by the author. I remember our Library Book Discussion Group was reading and discussing aYears ago, I was gifted this little book that was also signed by the author. I remember our Library Book Discussion Group was reading and discussing a particularly difficult book based in WWII about a Jewish resistance group. I brought this little book to the group, and each of us read a page out-loud until the book was finished.
The discussion was powerful.
The beauty of the story, about how one or two people can make a difference, was not lost on any of us. That it would be grandmothers, made perfect sense. Generations before us, fought for rights for women and others so that we could be prideful of our diverse communities and standing up for those issues that meant something. Their silent, but active protests mattered. Laws were changed, and respect was garnered across color, size, gender, identity, and disability.
“And for the rest of the day the women stood in the park. Not speaking.”
And yet, their silence spoke volumes. The mission of these grandmothers was to save the world.
“In towns and cities across America, hundreds of thousands of women, many of them grandmothers, gathered in public parks, school yards, vacant lots, and on the steps of churches, synagogues, mosques and Buddhist centers. They carried no banners, shouted no slogans and belonged to no organization.”
We know it is possible. We just need to believe in the power of our voices. Even Lily Tomlin said “I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.”
The grandmothers and all the people that gathered with them in support, made an impact. Like any of us who protest peacefully typically do.
“In an unrelated story: Reports are still coming in from our affiliates, but it would appear there has been no fighting anywhere in the world today.”
So, for anyone who doesn’t like the way things are in our current political climate that has created chaos, havoc, discord, loss of jobs, rights and civility, always know there are those who are willing to stand out to make a difference.
Shall we join the grandmothers?
After all, consider Margaret Mead’s quote…
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” ...more
I truly enjoy this author. This is my third book of hers that I have read and I am now reviewing. I loved “A Novel Love Story” and “The Seven Year SliI truly enjoy this author. This is my third book of hers that I have read and I am now reviewing. I loved “A Novel Love Story” and “The Seven Year Slip.” She has a way of connecting us to her characters and story.
And now, this one.
“Every person has a secret. Every secret has a story. Every story has a happy ending.”
Can these secrets possibly lead to a happily-ever-after?
And, as a rom-com lover, that is certainly my reason for wanting to continue to read them. No matter how overdone the trope is, I live for the HEA.
As readers, let us consider the following when it comes to this slow burn rom-com.
Is it possible to fall in love with a ghost? Or, maybe the real question should be, is it possible to see ghosts, talk and interact with them? Would this make them dead romantics? And, are they really dead? Or, just romantics? Or, is this really a play on words to describe a bad relationship with a past boyfriend, thus making the belief in love, dead?
Let’s get back to the ghosts. This has been a gift and possible curse since childhood for Florence Day, our narrator, and main protagonist. After all, her parents do own a funeral home. So, why not be able to interact with ghosts?
Not necessarily something Florence wants in her life. But what happens when her new editor, Ben, who happens to be gorgeous, expects her to finish a book, that she has been ghostwriting for a famous author? Can she do it this time, especially after a horrible break-up a year ago that left her in no mood for swoon-worthy love? Or, can she possibly break away from ghostwriting, and write her own story?
But the need to get home, changes everything for Florence.
What will happen now?
Does seeing and be-ing with a ghost, who happens to be this stunning hunk of a man, Ben count? What? Wasn’t he fully alive when she met with him, as her new editor, about getting this ghostwritten book done?
“Because ghost stories were just love stories... They were stories that taught us that love was never a matter of time, but a matter of timing.”
Do we need popcorn for this “ghost story?” ...more
“Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” – Carl Jung
I had just finished watching the movie, “The Life List” on Netflix. When I discovere“Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakes.” – Carl Jung
I had just finished watching the movie, “The Life List” on Netflix. When I discovered it was based on this book, I immediately ordered it from my local library. The question I posed to myself…
Would I be as mesmerized by this debut novel as I was the movie? Because, if any of you have Netflix, I would encourage you to watch this movie. It is really special. I have no doubt you will fall in love with Alex. I was absolutely charmed by her. Kudos to actress Sofia Carson and the supporting cast for such stellar performances.
And of course, the movie opens up all sorts of feelings in which we viewers can’t help but ask ourselves…
What does it take for any of us to fulfill a ‘life list’ that we may have created when we were young, and naïve about life in general? And, still so excited about the possibilities that our life could become? And, if we waver and forget that magical planned list for ourselves, can we be open to finding a way to check off everything that was placed on that list? Will it take a push to have us pursue it?
And, can the book do better than the movie, since that is where this story actually began – between the pages?
As readers who have watched the movie first, we quickly learn that Alex is now called Brett. Or in all fairness to the book, since it came first, Brett is our female protagonist.
As I read on, I am totally aware of the similarities between the book to the movie. Whether names have been changed, or details, the same premise of fulfilling a ‘life list’ is the focus. And, even if what was on the ‘life list’ was different between the book and movie, the story being read still had its own charm about it. The relationship she had with her mother. Rudy, an adorable dog that Brett adopts. And, a unique twist, somewhat different than the movie, regarding Brett’s father. (No spoilers from me.)
Readers will also wonder if Brett will achieve her happily-ever-after ending. And, although I don’t offer spoilers, I will say, whatever happens to Brett is different than what Alex experienced. And, that is completely okay with this reader. The beauty of this story, still holds for me, between these pages. I just got double the joy of ‘the life list,’ by seeing the movie and reading the book, too.
For those who read the book first, I hope you have a chance to see the movie, too. For both the book and the movie, have your Kleenex nearby.
Lastly, the book is engaging, heartwarming, poignant and thought-provoking with well-developed characters. Some may find it predictable. But since I had seen the movie first, I kind of knew what to expect, so it wouldn’t be fair for me to judge one way or another.
Bottom line…I loved both the book and the movie. Maybe the movie, a tad more. Popcorn, anyone? ...more
I decided not to put this one on my currently reading list. I had been reading so many heavily emotional books lately, I just wanted to escape to a seI decided not to put this one on my currently reading list. I had been reading so many heavily emotional books lately, I just wanted to escape to a series that felt familiar and cozy.
Premise: Upon returning home from vacation, Andy Carpenter finds himself greeted by 4 dogs. Having only 3 dogs, the family is a bit confused, until they recognize that the cute terrier is Murphy. Murphy is a sweet rescue they took care of before he was adopted by a mom and her teenage son, BJ.
So, what was Murphy doing at their home? As it turns out, BJ is currently in custody for the murder of a visiting University professor. Knowing that anyone who loved dogs as much as BJ did, Andy decides to defend him. Because a dog-lover like BJ has to be innocent. Right? And, that is the best reason for a deserved defense by Andy Carpenter.
So, if BJ didn’t do it, who set him up and why? And, why would anyone kill a University professor? And, who paid for BJ’s original attorney who just wanted him to plead out and doesn’t seem to listen to his own client’s cries of innocence?
What is really going on here?
Readers are immediately re-introduced to Andy’s team. Sam Willis an accountant and computer whiz; Corey Douglas, an ex-cop and a partner in Andy’s wife, Laurie’s investigative firm; Simon Garfunkel the retired-police dog; Laurie, Andy’s wife and a retired cop; Eddie Dowd, a fellow attorney; Edna, Andy’s do-nothing secretary; and, Marcus a man of few words, who you never want to be caught in a fight with at any time, but appreciate if he is the one defending you.
And, there is always opportunity to appreciate the author’s sense of humor when Andy shares within his narrative…
“I’m in bed watching a football game with the sound off, and Laurie is reading a new book by her favorite author, David Rosenfelt. I don’t get it; I tried reading one and it was like sucking sawdust through a straw.”
And then he has Andy say…
“Can I turn out the lights?”
To which Laurie replies…
“I just want to read a few more pages. I love this guy.”
For anyone new to this series, please start at the beginning with “Open and Shut.” And, for more information on why I love this series, go to my reviews of “New Tricks” and “Leader of the Pack.” In both, I give background on Andy Carpenter, our main protagonist, and all the reasons why anyone would want to adopt this as their new favorite series.
As readers get more into the story, they learn about the victim and his “habits.” Could this be a contributor to his death? Or, was his research important enough for someone to kill him? Mostly, what could be gained by his death? And, could any of this put Andy Carpenter and his client’s life in danger?
With this series typical sense of humor, twisty plot, surprise ending; and, compelling characters, Rosenfelt delivers another fun and engrossing story for readers/fans.
“…Jesus talked in parables because people have a tendency to hear but not listen. They look but don’t see.”
I was at my local library and found this bo“…Jesus talked in parables because people have a tendency to hear but not listen. They look but don’t see.”
I was at my local library and found this book staring at me on the shelf. It seemed like the perfect escape read. So, I checked it out and brought it home.
The minute I began reading this book, I couldn’t help but experience a warm, cozy backwoods country feeling to the author’s storytelling. I could sense her wanting readers to feel the simple life that was boring her narrator, and main protagonist, Catherine Grace Cline.
And through her voice, readers could feel a delightful coming-of-age story that follows Catherine Grace growing up in a small rural town in Georgia in the early 1970’s.
Early in the narrative, prayers from Catherine Grace were to wake up and find herself some place else. And, even though her prayers weren’t coming true, as readers we could still understand and appreciate her desires.
I remember how happy I was when I moved from the suburbs of Orange County, California, less than a mile from Disneyland to the quieter life of San Luis Obispo County. Moving here included the opportunity to buy a home, walking distance to the beach. In southern California we were surrounded by freeways and traffic, and, lots of activity, that appealed to my young sons. Especially having Knottsberry Farm, and Disneyland within a short distance.
At the time I came to San Luis Obispo County to work at the local college as a program Director and Instructor, there wasn’t even a traffic signal past the local university, the jail off of Hwy 1, or the community college I worked at, until a few miles in to Morro Bay. Things have obviously changed since then. But I do remember how once my kids were old enough to move out of the county, they did. ...more
Although this one is the second in the ‘Softball Strikeout Series,’ the authors do a great job of catching readers up, so that it can easily be read aAlthough this one is the second in the ‘Softball Strikeout Series,’ the authors do a great job of catching readers up, so that it can easily be read as a stand-alone. Readers are still encouraged to read the first in the series, “The New Girl.” Review here: /review/show...
This is the continuing story of Olivia, known by her friends and family as Liv. Liv is now the starting pitcher for her local softball team. As a devoted player, she has also made some wonderful friends and adapted well to her new school and neighborhood.
This story takes the girls through a challenging softball season, and how to best prepare for competition with another winning competitor/team. As well as a new job opportunity that keeps Liv and friends occupied. The challenge will be how she can manage both, and her school work.
The illustrations are beautifully drawn, and add nicely to the reading experience.
The story is charming with emphasis on the value of friendship, teamwork, healthy competition, family, and, the creative ways in which kids can earn money and have fun while doing it. It is easy-to-read and quick-paced.
I want to thank the author, Ben Jackson for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
I saw this book when I was doing a library search for another one. I was attracted to the cartoon characters of a polar bear and a penguin.
The story I saw this book when I was doing a library search for another one. I was attracted to the cartoon characters of a polar bear and a penguin.
The story begins with Virgil, a penguin who found a polar bear and decides, “…I’m keeping him.” And, off they go on fun ice adventures with other animals. But as Owen, the polar bear had fun on every adventure they went on, Virgil did not. Why?
What happens when we become possessive? Do we deny others the opportunity for fun? Or deny ourselves this opportunity? Why can’t we share in the joys of discovery together and with others?
Eventually, we can learn that we are on this journey in life with others. And, perhaps even find enjoyment that can lead to friendship.
This story has wonderful teaching lessons for kids of all ages.
What happens when you start to lose your inner light? Is it time for you to take a break from your life as it is now? And, possibly create some changeWhat happens when you start to lose your inner light? Is it time for you to take a break from your life as it is now? And, possibly create some changes?
Before professional photographer, Alice has a chance to answer these questions, her grandmother, Nan, has shattered her hip and will need support during her recovery after surgery. So, Alice is recruited from the family to be the one to be there for Nan. And, seeing that both of them are in need of some healing light, Alice decides to take Nan and herself to a place that had meant the world to them as a family when she was growing up. Barry’s Bay.
As it so happens, the cabin is available for them to use, and off they go. With John, the owner of the cabin, a long-time friend, making sure that all their needs are catered to by handyman, Charlie Florek.
Could Charlie Florek possibly be the “human beam of sunlight” that is needed for Alice to regain her inner light?
So, what is going to happen for Alice – and, possibly even Charlie Florek? How will this adventure to Barry’s Bay, help these 3?
That is where you come in as the reader. The answer isn’t for me to tell you. It is for you to read the book. Because when you do…
You will most likely be smitten, too.
P.S. – even though the character of Charlie has shown up in the author’s previous book, “Every Summer After,” this truly is a stand-alone. Be sure and read the author’s note at the end…Behind the Book.
I love the Andy Carpenter series. I love that no matter what happens, there are always dogs in the story – with happy endings. So, there is something I love the Andy Carpenter series. I love that no matter what happens, there are always dogs in the story – with happy endings. So, there is something to be said about this attorney, Andy Carpenter, who is also the founder of the Tara Foundation (named after his golden retriever, Tara) that is a dog rescue organization.
And, as readers who love a bit of courtroom drama and a cozy mystery that needs to be solved, we can usually count on it in each of his stories, too.
Also, as a series, if readers can read the books in order, that is certainly encouraged. First book in the series, “Open and Shut” review here: /review/show...
But for me, I always appreciate the donations to my Little Free Library Shed, especially if it was a book in the series I missed. And, that is the case with this one. And, since I have been very familiar with everything about this series, I was still comfortable reading this one out-of-order.
The other thing that I can always count on with Rosenfelt’s writing, is a formula that works. Typically, I grow weary with formulaic stories. But for some reason, this one resonates with me. He always starts off his first chapter (which gratefully are always short) with something “foreboding.” And then, he weaves it into the story where finally whatever happened in that first chapter catches up to the rest of the story, seamlessly.
Oh, and did I mention the sense of humor displayed throughout his books? That is part of the series charm, too.
“As far as I know, Tara hasn’t barked it to a soul.”
And, of course there is always a dog on the book cover to capture readers hearts and attention.
Well, now that I got all these things out of the way, to share with you, let’s get on with the review of this particular book.
So, what trouble does Andy Carpenter find himself in now? Or, in Andy’s world, who might he be defending and why?
In this story, readers learn that there are some cases that Andy hasn’t won as a defense attorney. As the narrator, Andy explains that he believed they were truly innocent even if they were found guilty by a jury of peers. And, in those cases where he has gained quite an attachment to the client, he does his best to visit those that are still incarcerated for the crime. Like Joey Desimone.
When visiting Joey Desimone, he shares that Tara is now a therapy dog for the local hospital. So, Joey asks if he would visit his Uncle Nick with Tara, who isn’t doing so well. Upon fulfilling his request, Uncle Nick says something that leads Andy to believe there is more to the crime that was unknown at the time, that convicted Joey. So, what can he do with this information? Is it enough to re-open the case? And, could it possibly prove his client is truly innocent, as Andy has always believed?
With adept attention to details that provide clues to readers, Rosenfelt provides twists and turns that will keep readers a bit off-balance. But the page-turning energy still continues up to the final page. With a truly great ending twist!...more
For anyone who has ever read Dame Agatha Christie or anything about her, they will know that she travelled a lot, and thus her characters did, too. ItFor anyone who has ever read Dame Agatha Christie or anything about her, they will know that she travelled a lot, and thus her characters did, too. It definitely broadened her storytelling, and gave an international scenic flair to a lot of her stories.
The editor of this story is Mathew Prichard, the grandson of Agatha Christie, his Nima. And, this book is the telling of his grandmother’s 10-month sailing trip around the world. Which she took with her then husband, Archibald Christie, who was part of the trade mission to promote the 1924 British Empire Exhibitions.
This book, in her writing, includes her notes, postcards, pictures and letters that were sent to family while she was away. Even leaving her then 2-year-old daughter, Rosalind (Rosy) in the care of her sister.
Prichard makes mention that this trip took place 90 years ago to the day of his writing the book, a 2012 publication. And, here I am reading and reviewing about it 105 years later! So, how did that come to be?
This book was displayed prominently at my local library in celebration of Women’s History Month this March, 2025. Being a fan of Ms. Christie, I was curious to explore this personal aspect of her life. Especially as I looked into the young eyes of Madame Christie on the book cover.
Prichard begins by including a preface by Madame Christie from her book “An Autobiography.” And, then, as readers we are off on the adventure with her. We soon are aware of the carefree, youthful spirit, young wife enjoying the attentions of her husband (before his betrayal) that comprises our “tour guide.”
As much as she may ask about her dear Rosy, we are certainly aware of her enjoyment of freedom that this trip is bringing to her. She is wild and flirty and fun, and, this is felt easily through her writings. This ‘Grand Tour’ also gives indications of the last days of the British empire, which showcased her rank and class, and an obliviousness to what was happening in the changing world.
For anyone who is a fan of Christie’s mysteries, she is enthusiastic about the various people she meets on the journey. Which leads one to ask, could some of her future characters have been a caricature of some of the people she met on this adventure?
Those who love her mysteries, or are fans of historical travel narratives, this may be an appealing view of the past through one’s favorite author’s rose-colored glasses. Even Christie’s stories, seen through modern eyes, still have the power to captivate....more
For anyone who is a fan of this iconic television show, it is always nice to have the opportunity to re-visit Mrs. Fletcher in books. It is amazing hoFor anyone who is a fan of this iconic television show, it is always nice to have the opportunity to re-visit Mrs. Fletcher in books. It is amazing how these stories still go on, long after the cancellation of the television series, and the death of its talented star, Angela Lansbury.
This story which was published in 2015 has Cliff Cooper who mysteriously died too soon, leaving his historical home in beautiful Cabot Cove, Maine to be sold. His wishes are that his grandson who is off traveling in Alaska can be financially comfortable, and not tied to the home. Cliff had raised his grandson Elliott when Cliff’s son and daughter-in-law (Elliott’s parents) left for South America.
The home lined with 1,000’s of books hoarded and read over the years by Cliff, leaves Jessica at odds with the real estate salesperson, who wants it devoid of ghosts. All Jessica wants to do is set-up a book sale that will benefit the local library. ...more
This is the 2nd book in the Dream Harbor series. The first story was called “The Pumpkin Spice Café.” I“Come with me, lass, if you want an adventure.”
This is the 2nd book in the Dream Harbor series. The first story was called “The Pumpkin Spice Café.” It told the story of Jeanie and Logan. So, even though this book is interconnected with book 1, it still can be read as a stand-alone.
To be honest, I wasn’t attracted to this story because it was the 2nd in the series. What got my attention was the title of the book. (The fact that the story includes a bookstore as a backdrop, is appealing, too!) And, I love the book cover. Look at that scene! Books, and more books, a cat entering the bookstore, and the sweet smell of freshly cooked cinnamon buns. Okay, we obviously can’t smell them, but what is life without a little imagination? After all, isn’t that at least one of the reasons we read?
This book tells the story of Hazel Kelly and Noah. For Hazel who has spent the last 15 years working at the bookstore in Dream Harbor, she is suddenly realizing how much life she hasn’t lived yet. And, how important it is for her to find adventure before her 30th birthday coming up in September.
And, then there is Noah, who came to the town to escape a family business, and do something that suits his style and interest more. What can Noah do for Hazel to help her find the adventure she craves, and perhaps, maybe even help her find him in the process?
And, what better way to add to the characters experience than a tiny mystery. Where quote clues are left in romance novels, through highlighting a specific passage. Who dares to write inside a book shelved for sale? Will these clues give Hazel direction for where her adventure can take her? Still, who is the mystery clue writer? And, were these clues left for Hazel specifically to find? And, will Noah be able to fulfill Hazel’s dreams for change in her life, which may lead to both experiencing a HEA? I know, lots of questions to be answered, right? What better way to peak readers interest about the book!
This is another cute, easy-to-read, slightly spicy and sweet cozy from this author, who knows how to create likable characters readers want to embrace....more
I loved her story, “The Lost Ticket,” a lot more than I did “The Last Chance Library.” But I wasn’t quite ready to give up on this author, yet. So, whI loved her story, “The Lost Ticket,” a lot more than I did “The Last Chance Library.” But I wasn’t quite ready to give up on this author, yet. So, when I found this book on my local library book shelf, I knew it was time for me to take a chance by meeting the neighbors.
So, how does one best describe a nosy neighbor? Is it that person who seems to spy on everything we do, and if they don’t like it, they will record it in their journal and report it to the landlord? In this case, that would be bristly Dorothy who has lived at Shelley House for 34 years, and really cares about the building. Maybe she might be a bit annoyed at her neighbors, but her intentions appear to be good ones. At least, from her perspective. Maybe eventually from readers, too.
And, for readers we have an opportunity to meet all the neighbors. Getting a sense of who each person is, why they live here, and what is important to them.
When everyone receives an eviction notice because a new apartment development is planned to replace this old, dilapidating building, this seems like something to fight against.
Will they win and save their old building?
There is something to be said about a story filled with quirky, readable characters that have a cause.
The question is, will they come together and get along? And, what personal mysteries will we as readers discover about them along the way.
This is a heartfelt, uplifting story, with unforgettable characters that will delight most readers. It is filled with friendship, community spirit, found family and love. Enough good feelings to make anyone want to meet the neighbors.
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