Whose Body in the Library - Cozy Mystery Review

Goodreads: Whose Body in the Library (Lighthouse Library Mystery #13) by Eva Gates

Rating: Really Liked It (4 Stars)
Source: Publisher

Description:  While Lucy McNeil is enjoying her new job as the mother of twin boys and library director, new librarian Nichelle Gilchrest has just arrived at the Bodie Island Lighthouse Library, reporting for duty. But life throws a wrench on Nichelle’s first day when she finds a body on the steps–a body that bears a startling resemblance to her father who disappeared on a fishing trip to the Outer Banks thirty-eight years ago.

Fingerprints confirm the dead body is indeed Nichelle’s father, now living in Nags Head under the name Brian Saunders. Brian had been befriending older lonely women in exchange for money, but was he working alone?

Detective Rhonda Thomas is on the case and the suspect list is only getting longer. Sorting through the wronged women and their relatives, Detective Thomas discovers Nichelle’s own brother Brad had been in Nags Head a few days before the murder happened and has been lying about his whereabouts.

Hoping to clear her brother’s name, Nichelle decides to investigate what happened. With seasoned sleuth Lucy’s gentle encouragement for the amateur, Nichelle is in for an exciting and dangerous first week at the library.

Genre: Mystery - Cozy

Why I Picked This Book: I've really enjoyed this series so far and the premise of this one with a new main character was intriguing.  

My Impression: I've been a big fan of this series since the beginning, so I was super excited to pick this latest book up.  I was intrigued by the idea of a new primary character with the addition of Nichelle and was really pleased with the result.  With long running cozy series (and probably any series) you can get a certain sameness the later it gets into the series.  This was very cleverly done.  There's the same setting and side characters that I've grown to love over the years though some roles have changed but a new perspective on it all.  The mystery was also a good choice for this new path and it gives the reader a good chance to get to know Nichelle and her backstory but in a way that shows and not tells.  

I really like Nichelle and enjoyed watching her learn her way around town.  The mystery kept me hooked and I wasn't sure how it was going to work out.  I thoroughly enjoyed getting there. I'm hoping there will be more books in the future as Nichelle is a great lead character and I'm looking forward to seeing more develop with the other side characters - especially Sam (the former lead detective) as he gets used to retirement.  

This is a fun cozy mystery series with a great beachy AND bookish setting.  It has a fun group of side characters and a great sense of community.   It is probably best read in order but you could jump in just with this one without too much issue.  If you're a fan of cozy mysteries this series is a fun one.

Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Absolutely!  I've really enjoyed every book in this series and am excited to see the next book.  

Would I Recommend this Book? If you are a cozy mystery fan this is a must not miss series.  

* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *

Top Ten Tuesday - Ten Bookish Wishes

Today I'm linking up with Top Ten Tuesday hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl which is all about lists.  Since lists are one of my favorite things this is one of my favorite linkups!  Today's topic is Bookish Wishes where you're supposed to list books I want to buy.  I buy books like it's my job and between that and a really great library and a bit of a NetGalley habit I really don't need any books.  So instead I'm going to make a list of general additions I wish I could add to my reading life.

1.  More reading time - I read pretty fast and am usually able to read multiple books at a time.  Unfortunately, I frequently have to do things involving my son's school, or work, or basic house stuff like laundry and cooking dinner.  All of these get in the way of reading (or getting through my To Watch list which is getting pretty substantial)

2.  To be instantly comfortable and alert when I sit down to read - This past month I've really struggled with migraines which has cut down on my reading.  And there are times where by the time I get settled down to read I'm only able to read a few pages before falling asleep.  I'd like that when I do pick up a book all of that goes away.

3.  For the used bookstore to have the exact backlist book I'm looking for - I'll also be good with having the next book I need in a series every time.

4.  For some of the authors that I enjoy but don't publish regularly to write faster without sacrificing quality - If an author writes one book a year I'm okay with that but there are a few whose books I enjoy who aren't quite as regular (Kate Morton comes to mind).

5.  To see less miscommunication in cozies and romances - I hate when I spend half the book screaming at the characters to JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER

6.  Time to organize my bookshelves - I've turned a guest bedroom into a library/reading room and I have a lot of bookshelves (though I could probably use another one or two) but I haven't really organized them exactly how I want them.  However, the idea of clearing out all the bookshelves and redoing them is more than a little intimidating and there's always something else that needs to get done.

7.  A book series based on solving cases with Investigative Genetic Genealogy - I have fallen down a rabbit hole with the DNA:ID podcast and the Paul Froncziak case (there's a podcast, a few books and tons of different episodes TV and podcast.  If you're interested in cold cases look into it - you won't regret it) and I would love to see that fictionally represented better than I have so far.  If you can think of any books that fit this description let me know.

8.  Read faster- I read fairly fast but there are so many books I want to read that I really wish I could read faster so I could get to them sooner!

9.  To be less distracted when I read - I'm starting to work on this but it's so hard to stay focused sometimes when I'm read during the day.  The phone is definitely a problem though this is what I'm working on but there are all kinds of things that catch my attention and then once I put my book down I'm not very likely to pick it back up.

10.  To have a full week where I don't have to do anything else and I can just lock myself in my reading room and just read one book after another.  - I'm not sure if I could actually do this without getting a little stir crazy but it sounds like absolute heaven.

What are some of your bookish wishes?

Reading What I Love - Year One by Nora Roberts

The last few years I've made a list of 10 books - 5 books off my shelf, 5 books from the library - that I'm really wanting to read.  There's no real rhyme or reason.  I just go through my library list and my shelves and pick the books that are calling to me.  My focus in 2026 is reading books I think I'll love - or at least really enjoy.

Goodreads:  Year One (Chronicles of The One #1) by Nora Roberts

Blurb:  The sickness came on suddenly, and spread quickly. The fear spread even faster. Within weeks, everything people counted on began to fail them. The electrical grid sputtered; law and government collapsed--and more than half of the world's population was decimated.
Where there had been order, there was now chaos. And as the power of science and technology receded, magic rose up in its place. Some of it is good, like the witchcraft worked by Lana Bingham, practicing in the loft apartment she shares with her lover, Max. Some of it is unimaginably evil, and it can lurk anywhere, around a corner, in fetid tunnels beneath the river--or in the ones you know and love the most.

As word spreads that neither the immune nor the gifted are safe from the authorities who patrol the ravaged streets, and with nothing left to count on but each other, Lana and Max make their way out of a wrecked New York City. At the same time, other travelers are heading west too, into a new frontier. Chuck, a tech genius trying to hack his way through a world gone offline. Arlys, a journalist who has lost her audience but uses pen and paper to record the truth. Fred, her young colleague, possessed of burgeoning abilities and an optimism that seems out of place in this bleak landscape. And Rachel and Jonah, a resourceful doctor and a paramedic who fend off despair with their determination to keep a young mother and three infants in their care alive.

In a world of survivors where every stranger encountered could be either a savage or a savior, none of them knows exactly where they are heading, or why. But a purpose awaits them that will shape their lives and the lives of all those who remain.

The end has come. The beginning comes next.

Why I Think I'll Love This One: I typically enjoy Nora Roberts' books and I've been enjoying fantasy more lately, so I thought I'd revisit this one which I skipped when it came out.

My Thoughts:  While I've been enjoying fantasy more lately I typically lean towards the cozier fantasy side of things or at least quest based.  This was decidedly not that.  There's nothing cozy about this book and the focus from start to finish is just survival.  The world has ended, society has broken down and people with magical powers - stronger since the Doom started - are hunted on all sides.  This is an ensemble cast who for the most part didn't know each other before but are all united by the goal to survive and create some kind of community.  Because of the ensemble cast and the general grimness of the world I struggled to become invested with the story at the beginning, and it took me a bit to figure out who was who. I never wanted to stop reading it but I wasn't flying through it.  And then everything came together.  It took me 3 days to read the first 100 pages and then 1 day to read the final 300.  This isn't my favorite Nora Roberts book and definitely isn't a book I'll reread but I will definitely be picking up the next book in the trilogy very soon.  My Rating: Really Liked It (4 Stars)

All Creatures Great and Small - Classic Nonfiction Review

Goodreads: All Creatures Great and Small by James Herriot

Rating: Loved It (5 Stars)
Source: Purchased

Description: Delve into the magical, unforgettable world of James Herriot, the world's most beloved veterinarian, and his menagerie of heartwarming, funny, and tragic animal patients.

For over forty years, generations of readers have thrilled to Herriot's marvelous tales, deep love of life, and extraordinary storytelling abilities. For decades, Herriot roamed the remote, beautiful Yorkshire Dales, treating every patient that came his way from smallest to largest, and observing animals and humans alike with his keen, loving eye.

In All Creatures Great and Small, we meet the young Herriot as he takes up his calling and discovers that the realities of veterinary practice in rural Yorkshire are very different from the sterile setting of veterinary school. Some visits are heart-wrenchingly difficult, such as one to an old man in the village whose very ill dog is his only friend and companion, some are lighthearted and fun, such as Herriot's periodic visits to the overfed and pampered Pekinese Tricki Woo who throws parties and has his own stationery, and yet others are inspirational and enlightening, such as Herriot's recollections of poor farmers who will scrape their meager earnings together to be able to get proper care for their working animals. From seeing to his patients in the depths of winter on the remotest homesteads to dealing with uncooperative owners and critically ill animals, Herriot discovers the wondrous variety and never-ending challenges of veterinary practice as his humor, compassion, and love of the animal world shine forth.

Genre: Nonfiction

Why I Picked This Book: I read this book decades ago and remember enjoying it but nothing about it.  I've been wanting to watch the latest television adaptation but wanted to reread the book before I did so.

My Impression:  This was my slow read for most of May and it was an absolute delight. I don't have any experience with livestock and this book doesn't have me wanting to run out and get cows or horses but I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Herriot's experiences with caring for them and a wide assortment of other animals.  Frequently this care takes place in inhospitable weather and quite often with helpers who offer more opinions than actual help.  

Herriot has a slightly dry, somewhat self-deprecating but always present sense of humor.  There are poignant moments, humorous moments, and tense ones but all very human.  My favorite story was the little Pekinese Tricki Woo though there were a number of others that stand out to me.  I did wonder how Herriot survived without throwing something directly at Seigfried's head as he is quirky and absentminded to the point of maddening.  This was an interesting, entertaining and sometimes poignant read.  Each chapter is fairly stand alone and it makes for a wonderful slow read.  

Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Absolutely!  I'm looking forward to reading more of Herriot's work as well as watching the TV adaptation.

Would I Recommend this Book? I would!  This was a wonderful read that I really enjoyed.

Friday Fives - Five Quick Reviews for Books I've Read Recently

I'm in a list making kind of mood so I thought I'd start making random five lists.  Sometimes they'll be bookish other weeks not so much. This week I'm sharing 5 quick reviews for books I've read recently.

1.  How to Solve Your Own Murder by Kristen Perrin - I'm a big fan of cold case mysteries so this one appealed to me right from the beginning.  I went with the audio version and I'm so glad I did as I'm not sure I would have gotten through it if I had physically read it.  The beginning is slooooowww and while I liked the main character, Annie, it took me awhile to get into it.  The 1960s timeline especially took me awhile to become invested in.  However, as the book went on I slowly became more and more invested and really enjoyed the ending.  I'm curious to see how the series (and Annie) develop and will be reading the next book.  My Rating: Liked It! (3.5 Stars)

2.  The Unselected Journals of Emma M. Lion Vol 1 by Beth Brower - I feel like I'm seeing this series everywhere and everyone is raving about it so I was super excited to pick up this first volume.  At first I didn't get the hype.  I liked Emma and the story was interesting but I wasn't fully caught in her world.  As the journal went on that changed and while this wasn't a five star read for me it was thoroughly enjoyable and I'm so looking forward to reading the next book.  My Rating: Really Liked It (4 Stars)

3.  First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston - I'd been in a bit of a slump with audiobooks and so when I picked this one up, I was a little hesitant.  It ended up being exactly what I needed.  Right from the start I was pulled into the story and I really had no idea how it was going to all unravel.  The audio was fantastic and contributed to my enjoyment.  This was a good mystery with lots of twists and turns.  I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.  My Rating: Really Liked It (4 Stars)

4.  The Summer Before the War by Helen Simonson - This book is a slice of life in a small village in England just as the world is about to change with the beginning of World War I.  Beatrice Nash has just been hired to be the new Latin teacher and is immediately immersed in small town politics.  There's a large number of characters - some delightful, some awful, most a complicated and realistic mix.   This was a little too long and sometimes I had trouble of keeping up with who was who but for the most part I enjoyed it - especially the ending.  I think it would have worked better as a slow read vs reading it for long periods of time.  My Rating: Liked It (3 Stars)

5.  Death in the Details by Katie Tietjen - This is the first book in the Maple Bishop series, set in post World War II Vermont.  Maple is inspired by Frances Glessner Lee and her Nutshell Crime Scenes that were used as an investigative tool.  Glessner Lee and her Nutshells have always fascinated me and so I was super excited to try this series.  It did not disappoint and I flew through this book.  Maple struggles with dealing with people but she has an amazing eye for detail and a love of the security and control her dollhouses bring.  When she accidentally stumbles on a crime scene she immediately notices things that the Sheriff dismisses or doesn't notice at all.  The mystery really hooked me but I was especially pulled in by Maple's investigation.  As well, I really loved the relationship between her and the Sheriff, his deputy Kenny, Ben, and a number of other townspeople.  I'm really looking forward to reading the next book in the series.  My Rating: Really Liked It! (4.5 Stars)

Recipe Thursday: Crockpot Chicken Tortellini

One of my goals for 2026 is to sort through all the recipes I have laying around tucked into folders and notebooks as well as my gigantic Pinterest/food blog collection that hasn't been touched in years.  I've been having quite a good time with it.  I enjoy cooking but it can become a chore pretty easily and this has made it a lot more fun for me as I feel like I'm working on a project.   Around here we've taken to calling it Recipe Thunderdome as all recipes have to be auditioned before earning their place in the final recipe binder. 

*For context I'm a reasonably capable home cook but one who is often trying to multitask and who is pretty much completely self-taught. *

Today I'm sharing Crockpot Chicken Tortellini from Slow Cooker Recipes

Changes:  I forgot the Parmesan at the last step but other than that made it just as the recipe directed.

Thoughts on Recipe Difficulty:  This was pretty easy.  You do have to fiddle with a little in the last 30 minutes or so of cooking but for the most part you just put the ingredients in and walk away for 4 hours.  

Cook Time:  Actual prep time is probably about 15 minutes though it does cook for 4 hours and 30 minutes.

Served With: a green salad and rolls

Results:  It was good and easy but not remarkable.  Basically, my husband and I decided we'd be fine having it again and fine not having it again.  I really love tortellini but I have a baked tortellini recipe I'd pick over this one every time and I have a few more on deck.  

Verdict:  Exiled.  There's nothing wrong with this recipe but it's not special enough for the binder.  

What I'm Reading Right Now - June 10

I always have a few books going.  Here is what I'm reading and what I'm thinking about them.

Ebook:

When You Loved Me by Beatriz Williams - I'm only a few chapters in but so far, I'm really enjoying it.  I'm really enjoying that it's set in the same places as last year's book so I'm seeing some of the characters from that book.

Print Book:

White Hot by Ilona Andrews - I still hate the cover - especially because it just doesn't fit the story - but I'm really enjoying the book.  It's not my usual genre but it's a fun story with snarky banter, teamwork, and some serious bad guys.

Audio Book:

Jane's Fame: How Jane Austen Conquered the World by Claire Harman - This is a little bit biography but mostly a look at how Austen's work became as beloved and well known as it is today. I'm not the hugest Austen fan but I'm finding this pretty interesting.

Slow Read:

Code Name: Lise: The True Story of the Woman Who Became WWII's Most Highly Decorated Spy by Larry Loftis - This reads like a fast paced action story so far and I'm struggling to keep it as a slow read.  Odette's story is fascinating and I really enjoy Loftis's story telling.

What are you reading right now?

Top Ten Tuesday - Books with Handwriting (or Font That Looks Like Handwriting)

Today I'm linking up with Top Ten Tuesday hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl which is all about lists.  Since lists are one of my favorite things this is one of my favorite linkups!  Today's topic is Books with Handwriting (or Font that Looks Like Handwriting) on the cover.  I pulled up my various TBRs and here are ten I found.  

1.  The Charmed Library by Jennifer Moorman

2.  The House of Hidden Letters by Izzy Broom

3.   Meet Me in Paris by Kristin Harmel

4.  Recipe for Joy by Monica Comas

5.  The Shippers by Katherine Center

6.  West with Giraffes by Linda Rutledge

7.  Out of the Woods by Hannah Bonam-Young

8.  The Rainy Day Bookshop by RaeAnne Thayne

9.  The Butler by Clair Mackintosh

10. Beach House Rules by Kristy Woodson Harvey

Have you read any of these?

The Reimaging of Thornwood House - Fiction Review

Goodreads: The Reimaging of Thornwood House by Jaleigh Johnson

Rating: Loved It (5 Stars)
Source: Publisher

Description: Evelyn Sharpe is accustomed to dealing with natural disasters as a land witch, but she longs for a life with a little less danger for her and her adopted daughter, Ruby. So when the opportunity to take over as Caretaker of Thornwood House—a sentient home that acts as the magical heart of the village of Iskendra—arises, it seems almost fated.

When they arrive in sunny Iskendra, Evie and Ruby find the house is nothing like what they thought. First of all, it has walked away from the address. Thornwood House is grumpy, guarded, and extremely hesitant to allow the two witches through its doors.

Armed with gentle hearts and wild magic, Evie and Ruby begin to form tentative bonds with the house and the citizens of the small town. But there’s something deeply damaged about the building seeping into the forests surrounding Iskendra, and Evie will have to use all her power to protect the roots she’s started to grow.

Genre: Fiction - Fantasy

Why I Picked This Book: The blurb just sounded to magical to pass up.

My Impression: This was just absolutely lovely.  I loved Evie and Ruby right from the start and the community of Iskendra.  Thornwood House is incredibly special.  It has such a personality right from the start sometimes pitching temper tantrums, sometimes protecting, and sometimes offering wonderous surprises but always making itself felt. 

There's quite a journey here as Evie has to get to know her new community and forge a new life for her and for Ruby.  Her most important and most challenging task is getting the house to trust her and learning its secrets.  And what secrets it has!   

This was a delightful read from start to finish.  I rooted for Evie from the start and really enjoyed getting to know her.  I loved seeing the community develop around them and getting to know that as well.  There's a bit of a sweet romance and supportive friends.  I loved how Evie tackled some really challenging issues.  I've been in a bit of a reading funk lately and this was exactly the salve I needed.  It was lovely and poignant and full of hope but with a lot of heart.  I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.

Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Absolutely!  I'm looking forward to reading more from this author and I'll also be looking for more books involving sentient houses as it turns out I'm a fan.  

Would I Recommend this Book? Absolutely!  Especially if you enjoy fantasy and don't mind a touch of romance.  

* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *

This Month in Reading - May 2026 Recap

Monthly Reading Total: 10 - This was a tough reading month.  The weather was terrible which triggered a ton of migraines which tanked my reading.  As well, I've been in a bit of a slump with audio books.  I have a lot of books that are half finished though so I'm hoping June will be a much better month.

Type:

Print: 5

Ebook: 2 

Audio: 3

Genre:

Mystery - 5 

Fiction - 4

Nonfiction - 1 

Favorite Books of the Month:

First Lie Wins by Ashley Elston - This was my favorite audio of the month.  It was a solid 4 star read (probably a 4.25).  I found the plot entertaining and compelling and I really enjoyed the listening experience.

Mrs. Jeffries on the Trail by Emily Brightwell - This was my favorite print book of the month.  It's got a bit of a classic mystery feel and I really enjoyed the juxtaposition of upstairs/downstairs and who knows what.  Also, the mystery was just a solid one.

Rereads:  Only one in May - The Labours of Hercules by Agatha Christie.  I really enjoyed this one and it's one where I really feel like Christie's enjoyment of the plot and the writing comes through

Monthly Armchair Bookish Travel:

Domestic Travel - I only visited 2 states this month.  I visited Louisiana for the first time this year and had a revisit to New York.

International Travel - This month I only visited England though I did visit 5 times.  

Other than that, I had 2 fantasy books and 1 nonfiction (though that one did take place in England).

How was your reading in May?  Where did your books take you?

Friday Fives - June TBR

I'm in a list making kind of mood so I thought I'd start making random five lists.  Sometimes they'll be bookish other weeks not so much. Since this is the first Friday in June, I'm planning my June TBR.  Here are 5 books I plan on reading in June. 

1.  When You Loved Me by Beatriz Williams - I really enjoyed the last book by this author that was also set on Winthrop Island and I'm so looking forward to reading this one!

2.  Code Name: Lise: The True Story of World War II's Most Highly Decorated Spy by Larry Loftis - I've enjoyed other biographies by this author and this sounds like a fascinating story.

3.  Colour Scheme by Ngaio Marsh - I'm a little hit or miss with this author but the last few books have been hits and I love that this one takes place in New Zealand where Marsh was from.

4. Whose Body in the Library by Eva Gates - This is the latest book in the Lighthouse Library series which usually makes for perfect summer reading.

5.  White Hot by Ilona Andrews - The covers for this series are really dreadful but I really enjoyed the first book and want to finish the series.  

What are you hoping to read in June?

Recipe Thursday - Asiago Chicken with Bacon Cream Sauce

 

One of my goals for 2026 is to sort through all the recipes I have laying around tucked into folders and notebooks as well as my gigantic Pinterest/food blog collection that hasn't been touched in years.  I've been having quite a good time with it.  I enjoy cooking but it can become a chore pretty easily and this has made it a lot more fun for me as I feel like I'm working on a project.   Around here we've taken to calling it Recipe Thunderdome as all recipes have to be auditioned before earning their place in the final recipe binder. 

*For context I'm a reasonably capable home cook but one who is often trying to multitask and who is pretty much completely self-taught. *

Today I'm sharing Asiago Chicken with Bacon Cream Sauce from Julia's Album

Changes:  I used olive oil instead of vegetable oil and left out the parsley because I find parsley to be more trouble than it's worth - though I am willing to hear arguments to the contrary.  I also only used bacon in the first part and did not garnish with the additional bacon.

Thoughts on Recipe Difficulty:   I don't love cooking chicken in a skillet because I'm always afraid of undercooking it but the way this recipe is done that isn't an issue.  This isn't a dump it in a pan and leave it recipe but it is pretty straightforward - seer chicken, make sauce, then simmer chicken in the sauce - and can all be done in the same pan.  I could clean up the kitchen and work on the sides while it was simmering which is always a plus.  As well, the recipe was easy to follow and I didn't have to reread for clarification.

Cook Time:  I'd say from start to finish about 30 - 35 minutes.  

Served With: Mashed potatoes (which were fantastic with sauce poured over them) and roasted green beans

Results:  So good!  It's a little rich for everyday but would be perfect for a company meal or when you're just wanting a little treat.  Serving it with rice or mashed potatoes to use with the extra sauce is a must.    

Verdict:  Survived - it has earned it's place in the final recipe binder which I need a catchy name for now that I think about it.  

The Valencia Expat Club - Fiction Review

Goodreads: The Valencia Expat Club by June Patrick

Rating: Liked It! (3.5 Stars)
Source: Publisher

Description: Dahlia Delaney’s marriage just imploded, her friend group picked a side (not hers), and her fancy San Francisco life now fits into a single suitcase. Armed with a broken heart, a freelance marketing gig, and one blurry childhood memory of her abuela’s garden, she impulsively hops on a flight to Valencia, Spain, to reconnect with distant family—and maybe herself.

But Valencia isn’t just sunny plazas and sangria. There’s her chaotic new job at a quirky expat bar, a family she barely knows but who embrace her like she’s always belonged, and a brooding American bar owner who’s frustratingly attractive and entirely too familiar.

As Dahlia stumbles through language mishaps, clashing cultures, and late-night paella with new friends, she begins to realize that the fresh start she came for might turn into something even better—if she can let go of the life she planned and embrace the one unfolding around her.

Genre: Fiction - Contemporary/Romance

Why I Picked This Book: I love starting over books and I loved the idea of a Spanish setting.

My Impression: I have mixed feelings about this one.  I adored the setting and the author did a fantastic job of making it come alive.  I loved the side characters and the whole huge welcoming Spanish family.  The author's writing style pulled me in immediately and at the beginning I liked Dahlia as she dealt with a divorce (not unwanted but definitely unsettling), the betrayal of friends and the struggle with relearning what she wanted as an adult.  

As the book went on I liked Dahlia less and less.  Her struggles with her changing circumstances and dealing with her relationships with her friend group post-divorce came off as very authentic and relatable but the more I got to know Dahlia the less I liked her.  She just struck me as a bit whiny and pretentious.  As well, I never connected with Liam.  The man must be beyond dreamy to make up for his rudeness that never quite made it to delightful banter for me.  As well, anytime Dahlia and Liam were together I liked each of them less.  

Overall, I really enjoyed this book.  This was my first book by this author and I loved her writing style and her way of making the setting and characters come alive.  I wish I had enjoyed my time with the main characters more but overall, the reading experience itself was a winner.

Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Definitely!  I really enjoyed the book even though I didn't like the main characters.

Would I Recommend this Book? If you like escapism starting over books, I'd definitely give this a try.

* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *

Top Ten Tuesday: Ten Books I Can't Believe I've Never Read

Today I'm linking up with Top Ten Tuesday hosted by That Artsy Reader Girl which is all about lists.  Since lists are one of my favorite things this is one of my favorite linkups!  Today's topic is Books I Can't Believe I Haven't Read.  This could probably be a top 100 list but I'm going to try and keep it to 10!

1.  The Dry by Jane Harper - This has been on my TBR since it came out and the second book looked even more interesting than this one.  My library has this in both print and audio but for some reason it just never quite makes it to the top.

2.  The Likeness by Tana French - I have seen so many readers who have similar tastes as mine list this as a 5 star read.  I liked the first book but was annoyed that the main plot point I was interested in never got resolved so I never picked this one up.  I have a copy sitting on my shelf so I really should just read it.

3.  A Little Princess by Frances Hodgson Burnett - The Secret Garden is easily one of my favorite books of all time but I've never read this one.  I think I tried it when I was a kid but never got very far.  I should give it another chance.

4.  Howl's Moving Castle by Diana Wynne Jones - This book sounds absolutely magical and I've enjoyed some of the clips I've seen of the adaptations.  It wouldn't take me long to read so I should just pick it up soon.

5.  Onyx Storm by Rebecca Yarros - I've read the first two books in this series and while I didn't love book two I'm invested enough in the world that I want to know what happens next.  

6.  The Girl Who Came Home by Hazel Gaynor - I'm just going to put this one on all these kinds of lists until I finally read it.  I wanted to read it since it came out and I've thoroughly enjoyed every book I've read by this author but for whatever reason have never picked this one up.  It's almost like I've got a mental block at this point.

7.  The Moonstone by Wilkie Collins - I loved The Woman in White and meant to read this one the next year.  It's been 7.  

8.  The Lion in the Living Room by Abigail Tucker - I watched a documentary by the same name and was completely fascinated.  I meant to read this book soon after that documentary but then never did - even though my library has a copy.

9.  The Shadow of the Wind by Carlos Ruiz Zafon - I have a copy of this book on my shelf and so many people have just absolutely raved about it.  The premise really pulled at me as soon as it came out but somehow it just has yet to make it to the top of the pile. 

10. Major Pettigrew's Last Stand by Helen Simonson - This one sounds like so much my kind of book but I never seem to pick it up.  I just started another book by this author so hopefully I love it so much I end up picking this one up soon.

What books can you not believe you haven't read?

The Windsor Affair - Historical Fiction Review

Goodreads: The Windsor Affair by Melanie Benjamin

Rating: Really Liked It (4 Stars)
Source: Publisher

Description: Feuding Windsor brothers and their wives—some things, it seems, never change. The Men: Edward David Windsor, heir to the British throne, and Albert, known as Bertie, his younger brother, “the spare.” The Women: Edward’s wife Wallis, an American divorcée, and Bertie's wife Elizabeth, descended from Scottish nobility. The Feud: a rivalry that will last all their lives, make headlines, and still fuel gossip pages nearly a century later.

The Windsor Affair recreates the cataclysmic events that nearly toppled the monarchy and incited the power struggle between Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, the queen-to-be, and Wallis Simpson, aka “That Woman," who fell into a calculated love affair with Prince Edward. Told from the perspective of both women, the novel propels readers into the fabulous world of the debonair Prince of Wales, café society of the 1930s, and the glittering private lives of the Windsors.

The first novel dedicated to the infamous rivalry between these two world-famous women, The Windsor Affair brings us all the gossip and intrigue between the two very different—yet perhaps more similar than they would admit—wives of royals. As Queen, Elizabeth would become the symbol of British pluck and courage during World War II and remain a British institution for the rest of her long life. Wallis would be forever forced to enact the World’s Greatest Love Story even after it sours, as she goes from being admired to vilified and, ultimately, pitied.

Against the backdrop of the Abdication Crisis, World War II, coronations, funerals, births, and deaths, these two women maintain a bitter, biting, sharp-tongued feud—until age and the long arm of history bring about a kind of understanding. For the last communication between these bitter rivals was a simple, surprising “In friendship, Elizabeth.”

Genre: Fiction - Historical

Why I Picked This Book: I've had good luck with this author and this is such a sliding door moment in history that it absolutely fascinates me.  

My Impression: I really enjoy Melanie Benjamin's writing and her ability to make characters in historical fiction come alive.  This was an interesting story with multiple POVs - sometimes Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon, future Queen Consort and then Queen Mother, Wallis Simpson, otherwise known as "That Woman", and occasionally context provided by Queen Mary, Queen Consort and both women's Mother-in-law.   It would have been easy for Benjamin to lean into traditional views and portray one woman as the Saint and the other as the Devil but she doesn't at all.  

Wallis is a challenging and complicated person and while I never liked her there were times I couldn't help but admire her and feel sorry for her.  She is dealt a poor hand in life but has a driving ambition to survive and for security.  While I don't think many people would agree with how she did it and I doubt in real life she made many friends, she does survive though it is questionable if she ever truly felt secure.  Elizabeth is a product of the society she was raised in.  She understands duty and image and is well aware of her charms and the different methods of persuasion.  While I didn't particularly care for her, I couldn't help but admire her loyalty and her protectiveness of her family - especially her husband.  Both women are tough as nails but in completely different ways and it was fascinating to see their story revealed.  

The book centers around a sliding door moment in history with David's abdication but showing all events leading up to it and then the fallout.  It's interesting and a little terrifying to think just what would have happened in World War II if David had remained King as even before abdication he was pretty vocal about his Nazi sympathies.  

While not the fastest read this is a well done and compelling read about complex characters during an incredibly complicated time in history.  If this is a period of time that interests you it is well worth reading - as is any book by this author.

Would I Read More of this Series/Author? Definitely!  I've really enjoyed everything I've read by this author and am looking forward to reading more.  

Would I Recommend this Book? If you enjoy historical fiction this is definitely worth the read!

* I received this book in exchange for an honest review. As always my opinions and impressions are completely my own. *

The Labors of Hercules - Classic Mystery Review

Goodreads:  The Labors of Hercules by Agatha Christie

Rating: Really Liked It! (4.5 Stars)
Source: Purchased

Description:   The Labours of Hercules comprises an even dozen mysteries starring Christie's most popular sleuth, the ever-dignified Hercule Poirot. The introductory chapter of the collection sets up the rest of the book. At a dinner party, another guest compares the labors of Poirot to those of Hercules, and the little Belgian is not amused. He has already decided to retire, but makes up his mind to take on 12 great cases - each somehow reflecting the labors accomplished by Hercules - as a farewell to crime solving. All of the cases are quite different from each other, from searching for a lost poet to hunting down a particularly ferocious murderer, from solving mysterious deaths of religious cult members to saving a young would-be politician from potential blackmailers.

 
Genre: Mystery - Classic

Why I Picked This Book: This was the May pick for the Read Christie Challenge

My Impression: I really love Christie's short stories and this was a fun collection.  There are some books that you can kind of feel Christie behind the scenes having a fabulous time playing with particular plots and themes and this is definitely one of them.  The short stories have a wide range from major cases with political implications, to missing people, to the kidnapping of a small dog, along with a random assortment of other problems.  

I liked the premise and I love Poirot in this book.  He's clearly delighted with his little project and making the cases fit his idea.  I am also a big fan of Miss Lemon so any book that involves her is always a good one.  This is a fun collection of short stories and would be a good introduction to Poirot if you aren't familiar with him yet.

Would I Read More of this Series/Author?  Of course!  I'm looking forward to the June pick - The Murder of Roger Ackroyd.  It's one I haven't read in awhile.

Would I Recommend this Book? I would.  This is a good short story collection on its own and would be a good introduction to Poirot.

Friday Fives - Five Quick Reviews for Books I've Read Recently

I'm in a list making kind of mood so I thought I'd start making random five lists.  Sometimes they'll be bookish other weeks not so much. This week I'm sharing 5 quick reviews for books I've read recently.

1.  A Skeleton in the Family by Leigh Perry - I've been wanting to read this series for years and finally got around to picking up the first book.  It did not disappoint.  I like that the author didn't even attempt to explain how the Sid the skeleton exists.  She just leans into the fact it makes no sense and then continues on with the mystery.  Sid is a fun character - he's both funny and sympathetic and always curious.  The mystery was intriguing as Georgia and Sid try and figure out just who Sid was before he was Sid.  I like the supporting cast of characters and the details of Georgia's job with all the perils of academia.  This was an enjoyable read and is the beginning of a series that I am looking forward to continuing.  My Rating: Liked It! (3.5 Stars)

2.  The Rose Code by Kate Quinn - This was a tense read and for the first half a very grim one.  I loved the story of the three very different women with three very different skills working at Bletchley Park during World War II.   Oslo's relationship with Prince Phillip was interesting, I really loved Mab's story, and I couldn't help but feel sorry for Beth.  The story deals with some really tragic situations and consequences, and Beth's storyline is frankly terrifying.  The first half to three quarters of the book was almost a bit too grim and there were times that I didn't feel like the story was making much progress though Quinn's writing and ability to bring characters to life kept it from being a drudge to read.  The last third was fantastic and I was absolutely hooked.  I was tackling random cleaning projects I'd been putting off just so I'd have more time to listen.  I also really loved how the epilogue was done.  I enjoy this author and the audio was fantastic.  I will definitely be looking for more of her books.  My Rating: Really Liked It (4 Stars)

3.  Murder, She Wrote: The Body in the Trees by Jessica Fletcher and Terrie Farley Moran - I really love this series and my favorites are the books set in Cabot Cove with all the familiar side characters and the cozy dynamic of the little town in Maine.  I love how Maeve especially is so kind and helpful but has a very firm limit on how much time she can spend with people.  This was a delightfully cozy read with two mysteries - one about a purse snatcher and one about a tourist in town for the fall leaf colors.  As with most books in this series the focus is more on day to day life than active mystery investigation.  I really liked the discussions of dealing with some of the more elderly residents in town who were starting to have physical limitations.  The mystery solution was a bit of a surprise but made sense.  I do wish that it and the solution to the bicycle bandit had been fleshed out a bit more but overall, it was an enjoyable cozy read.  My Rating: Liked It! (3.5 Stars)

4.  The Mother-in-Law by Sally Hepworth - This is my second Hepworth book and it will definitely not be the last.  This is a complex story of a family when there are adult children and a significant amount of money involved.  The two primary narrators are Diana (the Mother-in-Law) in the title and Lucy (the daughter-in-law). I really liked how the author put their version of specific incidents side by side so we can really see what the intentions were and how events transpired.  There's a mystery but I was more fascinated with the evolution of the characters and relationships.  That said the mystery aspect was very well done and quite a surprise.  There is quite a lot of talk of one of the characters struggles with infertility so if that is a difficult topic for you this may be one to avoid.  It's done well but it is the focus of a storyline.  My Rating: Really Liked It (4 Stars)

5.  A Beautiful Blue Death by Charles Finch - I love a good historical mystery and this was a good start to a series.  Charles Lenox is a wealthy Victorian gentleman with an interest in history and everything around him.  When a maid, previously in the employee of his friend and neighbor Lady Jane, commits suicide he's pulled into the investigation with surprising complex motives.  The setup and pacing was a bit slow but overall the mystery and investigation was enjoyable.  I liked characters and the basic setup of the series and am looking forward to continuing with the series.  My Rating: Liked It! (3.5 Stars)