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Showing posts from August, 2023

The Painter's Daughters by Emily Howes

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 It is amazing how Emily Howes writes about two sisters who are so extraordinarily different. She uses words that make the girls come alive. I am overjoyed to see a Historical Fiction written about Thomas Gainsborough. I remember everyday seeing a painting of The Blue Boy. It hung over a staircase in my elementary school. I have to admit my heart pittered and pattered reading these were the daughters of Thomas Gainsborough. I feel as though Peg might shadow Meg all of their lives. It is astounding how two siblings can enter the world from the same parents and end up completely different. One might mirror the father and one might skip along and resemble a fourth cousin. Who knows? it is a paradox. One so special large tomes are written about the DNA trail.  Sadly, Meg's mind is confused. She seems like a blind child. Perhaps, it is the blank stare that causes this feeling.  I am not sure whether Meg's mother just sees Meg as a disobedient child. Perhaps, she does know something

Murder in Drury Lane by Vanessa Riley

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  Being a good man is on Anthony Danielson's goal list.  He can do it. It is just that becoming a respectable gentleman is harder than remaining a naughty man.  And how does one get rid of those wild and   heathen buddies? Being upstanding is never in their thoughts.  The abolition movement is not ignored among all these theater props. Laziness has no place here. To not mention William Wilberforce would lead to angry yells. He fought venomously against slavery.

Midnight At The Christmas Bookshop by Jenny Colgan

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 You can never overdo it for Christmas. It is about over abundance. So bright with lights that your eyes begin to blink like the reindeers on the Christmas tree. Now McCredie's Bookshop is going to appear in a documentary." McCredies'' Bookshop is a part of Edinburgh History. Carmen remembers the last Christmas. Probably, you do as well if you were lucky enough to have the book. Remember Carmen? She lost her job and began to make McCredie Bookshop her responsibility. It became like saving Christmas. it is January ; I think. Who knows when you are involved with making a documentary. I am just so excited to catch up with Carman, and the family again. On my first visit to Edinburgh I want to visit McCredies. Aaaah, love. s

The Guest by B. A. Paris

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 The  house is still there. It did not burn down while they were on vacation. There is a surprise waiting. A close friend has made herself at home in their house. Laure did not come alone. She brought her troubles along.  Iris will hear about the struggle for at least three weeks. The question is what should Laure do in such circumstances?  What is the next step?  I hope there is a hop, jump, skip to a right or wrong solution. Someone must move forward. Some trials and tribulations cause us to become turtles and not hares. Perhaps, that is the better way  for Pierre and Laure. Gabriel will try to help Pierre who does not wish to make a hasty move either. Just speaking words has become complicated to Pierre. It is back to the drawing board for Iris and a renewed love for gardening on Gabriel's part.Something will spin out of control and cause a vortex. When love hurts we bleed and we procrastinate. B. A. Paris's timing is perfect. If only life were so symmetrical. If I think of

The Museum Of Failures by Thrity Umrigar

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Remy does not feel a love attachment to his home in India. When the adoption of a child goes in a different direction, he becomes stiff as starch calling the Bombay a " museum of failures." He is shaken again when he finds out how his elderly mother's life has changed. The ugly beast of guilt hits him in the back. It is hard to understand how much is expected of you. No matter how far, India, 8000 miles, the blame is put at your foot. It takes strength and love of place to remain sanely communicative. Thank you to Algonquin Pub for a complimentary copy.  

The Lost Dresses by M.A. McLaughlin

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 Anything or anyone who leaves us forever never leaves without leaving something or someone behind.   In this instance, it is three dresses. These dresses belong to the genius Christina Rossetti. A lady from Boston, Marianne,  has traveled to Italy to research these garments. They were found in a small hidden room. So delicate you must wear gloves to touch them. From the Nineteenth Century to the Twentieth Century  the dresses have traveled. From Boston to Italy, there is a life of unknowns to uncover and to discover.  Time is in motion. It moves without us. It is in control of us. When my mother died, I rushed home. My sister and I went straight to my Mother's bedroom. to talk, catch up. Sitting in my Mother's rocker, my eyes landed on the closet door. Her daily house dresses hung there. I felt a chill. She was in the bedroom. She was over at the closet choosing that day's dress At that moment, I did not feel her death. I felt her life again. Pieces of clothing are sewn in

Friendship Can Save The World by Carrie and Morgan Stephens

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It has been said that Sunday is the most segregated day of the week. Yet, Carrie  & Morgan Stephens have discovered ways we can become ones who show the love of God without prejudice.  As their spiritual helper they use the Book Of Ruth.

Listen for the Lie by Amy Tintera

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 Oh my goodness, this woman doesn't know whether she has murdered her best friend. Although the policemen and detectives see no reason to charge her with the killing, people are ready to judge her as a monster. Everything does point to her guilt. Lucy Chase is her name. The blood of Savvy (Savannah) is all over her clothes. What in the world has happened to her memory? This is a very interesting plot. If Lucy didn't do it, who is the killer? Obviously, they don't care about Lucy either. This is just horrible.

Smalll Town Sins by

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 Small towns scream the loudest about their secrets. That's because bigger surrounding areas believe they're innocent.  This is a good book. It's light - filled. I would write more, but I am late for a very important date.  There are  many guilt feelings and plunders. You're forgiven, Nathan. One thing for sure is "Small Town Sins" is a roller coaster ride.  Up, down, all around.  Oh, make sure you have a tissue.

The House of Broken Bricks by Fiona Williams

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There must have been peace in this home at one time or the other. Now, the air is tense and feelings are getting hurt. Then there is the flood. Life becomes more transparent. There is no way to hide who you really are in water. The inner self becomes the outer self. Who is your neighbor? You can't remember their name. In some way Fiona Williams makes it possible to remember our adopted fictional famiy. They are not arguing and fighting now. The water has swallowed the mean words. Thank God the house is still there. Will it remain? I have decided no one knows what it's like to live through a catastrophic flood. Unless you've been in those climbing waters, you just don't know.

Solo Passage by Glenda Goodrich

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 God forbid! Glenda Goodrich takes a journey. It's a  Wilderness Quest. She goes to Death Valley with such goals as fasting for four days and spending her first night alone in a desert. One word comes to mind when thinking about Glenda Goodrich. Brave! She has her head on straight. Her eyes and ears are open to hear any mountain lions or rattlers. She wants to hear her personal thoughts on this journey. It is important to note she knows the why of the quest. It's a time to look back and over her life. Also, to peek into the future. The quest seems insurmountable. The determination factor and the desire to change and become new will become her guides. Thank you to She Writes Press for a complimentary copy

Bye, Baby by Carola Lovering

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Friendships are like living plants. They need watering, and they need feeding. There is also the desire for soft, sweet conversations. Without all of the above, the plants withers away.  Cassie and Billie are really close friends. Then,  Cassie becomes with child. All of her love and attention is given to  Baby Ella. It's just so delectably sweet how Ella loves mommy. They are sharing a new heaven borne relationship. Poor Billie is left to herself. To continue the friendship she must accept the new conditions of this girlfriend love. After all, there is Instagram. I love the new mother and baby time. Brings back sweet memories.

Dark Parts Of The Universe by Samuel Miller

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Willie lives in Calico Springs. He and his brother are very close. They are aware of the White and Black habits there. Willie has only one eye. Not being able to afford a false eye he wears an eye patch.  There is some type of magical or supernatural stuff going on in the background of the story. I can not understand it. I think it is called The Game. When you ask for something, you most likely will receive it. I suppose it is because of the supernatural part of the book that  the reader is told about the (God) believers in the town. This seems like a guy's  story. So, if you do not have brothers, you might find yourself groaning from time to time. I wish one of them had a sister. Oh well, it does not matter as long as each one as a friend and knows how they are going to make big money.

Sisters Of Belfast by Melanie Maure

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 Aelish McGuire is caught in a desperate situation. War. Her family are dead or badly injured. She wishes time could stand  still or become like in earlier days. This is an ugly time. It is hoped Aelish can stand up under the pressures. War covers her memories of  the war. As an old lady, they are still there. It seems war memories never disappear. It is not Aelish's fault. No one can ever forget such a hellish me. Once you live through a war it is amazing how something totally different can cause war memories to return.. A baby's bib can lead you faraway and back to the place of horrors again. I hope we never experience war again on American land.

A brilliant Life by Rachelle Unreich

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  This is a true story. There are those horrible death camps. People were led their like silent lambs. I am glad to read  about this time in history again. If we read or talk about it again, history may not repeat itself. There are many happy memories shared by the son. He writes about the Sabbath and the joy she had preparing for it. The family would sing songs to welcome and end the Sabbath. Mira also loved to cook. There are some funny moments as well in the book. It is really a delight to read these words.  

Knowing You by Tracie Peterson

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 May is biracial. The Japanese side of herself longs to learn all she can about Japan. While reading this book I think of Mount Rainier. She mentions it.  Japan is a beautiful country. May's mother is Japanese. However, thoughts of Japan only make her sad. She does not tell why she hates Japan. May and her father, he is White,  have no idea how to make her open up to them. Knowing you is really a lovely book. The author is able to capture a place, Japan, with only words.

Mary's Voice: Advent Reflections To Contemplate The Coming Of Christ by Dr. Amy Orr Ewing

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Mary, the Mother Of God's life changed in a big way.  She was told by Angel Gabriel that she would bare  God while she was a virgin. It is hard for some to believe that miraculous moment took place. At the same time her cousin Elizabeth was experiencing a faith building moment too. The birth of her baby and his purpose were told to her as well. The book is beautiful . It is one you will wish to slowly go through because there are beautiful vellum pages to rejoice in during Advent or any season of the year. Most of all I enjoyed learning about Mary's world at that time. It is a chance to ponder her feelings. Just think,  her faith had to remain strong through nine months and beyond.

Secrets Beneath by Kimberley Woodhousse

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When children go missing, our hearts break in half. If we do not find them, how can we go on? They are our light that shines when everywhere else is dark. First Mary and then, Caleb are lost. They trust in God to help find Caleb. While this is happening Anna and her father continue to think of their beloved hobby. The finding of fossils in Wyoming. This time there are dinosaur bones. Paleonatology is truly exciting. I love reading about the dig. Everyone is in one accord. Searching for what will make life worth living. All of these losses and findings lead to togetherness and love.

Two To Tango by Laura Carter

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I don't go to a fitness center. This feeling overcoming me is that I will feel as though I have spent a year in one by the time I finish reading this book. Brook manages a fitness center. He is at the stage in life when he wants or thinks he should make major changes. For example, he is thinking of owning a fitness center. He has a lot on his mind.  His mind is on Alice.Alice is the mother of his daughter, Cady. Unfortunately, Alice's parents hate him.If he disappeared, they would not care. Laura Carter is writing like we have side seats in Brooks' mind. He is very open and willing to self analyze whatever is uppermost in his mind. if you are not in to fitness, use caution. Of course, it might lead you to a new life adventure. By the way,  chapters are named for the characters.

The Wonder Of Small Things by James Crews Poems of Peace & Renewal

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 This is a wonderful book. It is a reminder that life is exciting. All that is needed is quietness and your attention. With these attributes you can almost hear a daisy grow. It is that simple. The poems are rich in beauty and meaning. The poems are written by different authors. There is : snow, trees, radishes, daffodils, bluebirds, etc. It is a chance to become a child again. They know how to The giggle, forget time and ask all types of questions. This book would make a beautiful gift for a child or an adult.

Silent Fall by Niclky Downes

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 Jack has her battles. Still, it takes a strong woman to live the life of a mountaineer and cop. Since I' am afraid of height, my hat goes off to her. Still, I am not catching that reading flow feeling that makes me love reading. Thanks to Nicky Downes for choosing a strong woman to inspire those of us who need that encouragement. Thanks to Storm.

Plantains and Our Becoming poems by Melania Luisa

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 These are poems about life. At times, it becomes too difficult to walk through another day. Some times it is easier to move to another location. One that is faraway. The miles do not matter. The experience matters. Living in a wealthier environment can slow down  the pain. It can not take it away. Pain is for growth. Suffering with bread in your stomach softens the blows that come from mouths and weapons. By each poem the author, Melania Luisa Marte has placed an age. This is wonderful. It gives a better idea about when name calling began or when she really learned to appreciate her "Abuelita's" Grandmother's garden. Death dates are as important as our birth dates. It is the memories of those we love. The author states writing is cathartic. It eases what hurts us as it travels through our body.

Murder In The Bookshop by Anita Davison

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    When Hannah finds the body of  Lily-Anne in the bookshop, it was a shock. Lily-Anne was Hannah's best friend.Lily-Anne decides to take the news to Aunt Violet. Hannah needs some one with whom to share her feelings.Unfortunately, Aunt Violet is away for the day. I suppose everybody needs that go to person when something big and unexpected happens in their lives. One of the themes here is who would you go to when the chips are down?     Lily- Anne is such  a dainty and pretty name I am already thinking of who in the world would want to murder such a sweet lady. How do I know she is sweet? I know nothing.  It is odd and silly to so quickly decide what a person is like. My words are totally superficial because nothing has been shared about Lily-Anne. I have made a quick judgment.    I do not think a man would kill a woman, or have I forgotten all of my Mystery plots? Well, one thing is for sure. Hannah did not stab her. That I know.

Berried Grievances

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 Violet is an elderly woman. She dies suddenly. She suffered with diabetes and heart trouble. When she dies, it is unexpected. At first, it seems nobody is really caring. After all, old people die all the time. Probably, they were in shock. Because during the Regatta benefit one lady is wearing black. Also,what people say about Violet has changed. Monica, our sleuth, is asking questions and listening closely to what is said. Although she is going to have a baby, nothing makes her stay uninvolved. In this case, money is involved. I hope the relatives had nothing to do with the murder.

Give Yourself Permission by Cortney McDermott

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This is a very practical book. It seems as though it were written personally for you. For one thing it does not make you feel guilty for pass negative behavior. Cortney McDermott speaks to you as though you were a learner.He is the gentle teacher. He writes that we are all individuals.No one is like you. This is good. Then, you have no reason to become anxious. No one can steal you from you. Your talent is a personal gift.  There are many affirmations. Ones we want to remember and  will desire giving life to them in your life. There are tidbits of wise words from Les Brown and Morgan Freeman. One is about it never being too late to become a new person. Morgan Freeman began his acting career at Fifty years old. You know what? Life is worth living. Thank you to Net Galley and to D K.

Foorgery, love and Other Lies by Charlie Lane

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When the family is having money troubles, there is only one thing to do. You must help them out. Fiona has never been thought of as one who should waste her small mind on such circumstances. She was meant for something else. Probably, just marriage to a well endowed man. When life becomes very desperate, Fiona is unable to just sit and look pretty. She wants to get involved. She has one very good talent. She can paint. Her fine eye for color and line gives her just what she wants. It gives her money. There is one problem. Her talent might land her in jail. It is all a punch of poppycock, Is it not?  Thank you to Netgalley

I Didn't See It Coming by Mary Lou Falcone

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 Mary Lou Falcone , daughter, and Lou Falcone, father are lovers of people and especially their family. Mary Lou will suffer through hard times, but like sticky glue Mary Lou Falcone does not run away. She is there for the good times and the bad times. And the hard times are manifold. My goodness, life can look like all the stars have stopped shining and will never shine again. Lou Falcone at thirty-seven years old will never speak again.  It is not because he does not try. It just does not happen. His family, Mary Lou Falcone and three children are there for him in every way.Light the stars, please. Thank you to Net Galley and East End Press.

Fall 2018 Debut Fiction Sampler

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We all need a sister like this one. What would you call this sister? A Murderer's Aide? Yes, that fits. The title is "My Sister,The Serial Killer."  Sight by Jessie GreenGrass A child is her desire, maybe. With the migraines, I, the reader,  am screaming not yet. Tomorrow? So soon? Dissected hands, X-rays are very interesting. I have never seen my hands without skin. Although, those have done an X-ray of my hand or hands. The lady has a different reaction. The Adults by Caroline Hulse How exciting going on a vacation with two couples. One is the exes and the other one are the newly formed couples.  These are relationship oriented plots. Thankfully I had the chance to look at them before buying. I hope the authors are experiencing the good life and definitely, still writing.

So Long As It's Wild by

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 Maybe I am too serious. Through all that heat I expected Barbara Jenkins to collapse. I could see her in a hospital bed for a few days. Maybe none of us realize how high the temperature can get in the United States. Perhaps, we think it can only happen in the desert. Barbara Jenkins and Peter Jenkins are walking across America together. Soon, they will become husband and wife. The couple meets another couple in Texas. Thoughts are shared about the snakes in the area. She had just killed a poisonous one the day before. Now, let's go over and pull in an alligator. One of those should really make us feel at home.

27 Summers by Ronald Olivier

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Ronald Olivier's story is very inspiring. He tells how his father spent so much time with he and his siblings. They enjoyed many fun hours together. Time that would never come again. He also writes about the love for his mother. She worked very hard and loved him.It was not long before he was stealing cars. He quickly gives all praise to Jesus Christ. God had brought him through robberies and all sorts of negative activity on the street. Later, comes prison.  

The Cornish Diary by Eleanor Samuel

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 It all starts with a book that falls out of a drawer. After this, and the descriptions of the land, I am lost. The story is about what? I feel the author's mind wandering. She is trying to find a good starting point. I am worried about her skills. Can she find a plot and complete it? Now, I am burdened. When do I let it all go? Have I given it my best shot? I am divided.  The old chapel has me dazed. I wonder is it really haunted. There are so many questions. I decide it is not the plot. It is my impatience.  I want to know what Sean is really like. Thank Goodness, he is handsome. I want to know how the wind and seagulls will forecast the future of the house.  And Livia? I am so frightened for her. She is told what to do on the fly. So far, she is strong and smart. So far it is all about Trethallyan Edge. Livia knows how to play her hand. Although she was never really hired. How does that happen? Maybe we have all gotten lost in another place and time. Already, I am worried about