Jingle All the Way by Debbie Macomber is a 2020 Ballantine publication.
Funny and sweet!
After a fiasco involving her new assistant, who happens to beJingle All the Way by Debbie Macomber is a 2020 Ballantine publication.
Funny and sweet!
After a fiasco involving her new assistant, who happens to be her boss’s niece, Everly is sent on a long overdue vacation. Although reluctant at first, the thought of a luxury cruise does sound nice. Unfortunately, the vengeful assistant booked a cruise in the Amazon just for spite-
Poor Everly encounters one mishap after another, but her naturalist guide, Asher, helps her forget all about the internet, and shows her the magnificence of the Amazon. Her time away without all her technological connections give Everly time to reflect on her life, as her friendship with Asher deepens. But what will she and Asher do once the cruise is over?
This is a very pleasant contemporary romance that couples a little light humor in with a little adventure and a sweet romance, and ends with a segue into the spirit of the holiday season.
As a few other reviewers have noted, the title and cover is misleading, because Christmas doesn't play a role this story until the very last part of the book. The plus side to that, though, is this book can be enjoyed at any time of the year.
Due to the length of the story, the chemistry between Everly and Asher was a little forced and the romance felt a bit rushed- but it was still lovely watching the couple fall in love.
For me, the growth between Everly and her sisters was the most heartwarming aspect of the story. The way everything turned out for Everly, Asher and her family left a big smile on my face!
Overall, I enjoyed this gentle story. It was a like soothingly balm in a time of turmoil and anxiety. I think I may need to add more Debbie Macomber to my reading list!
Twisted Twenty-six by Janet Evanovich is a 2019 G.P. Putnam’s Sons publication.
A fun, comfortingly predictable escape
In this twenty-sixth installmentTwisted Twenty-six by Janet Evanovich is a 2019 G.P. Putnam’s Sons publication.
A fun, comfortingly predictable escape
In this twenty-sixth installment in the Stephanie Plum series, Grandma Mazur is in serious danger after her new husband dies suddenly, leaving the whereabouts of a mysterious set of keys in limbo. Believing Grandma must know the location of the keys, several groups of people- possibly mob types, and her deceased husband’s family, are determined to pressure Grandma into giving them up.
Have no worries though, Stephanie, Morelli, Lula, and Ranger are all on the case- perhaps the most personal one Stephanie has faced yet…
At least eleven books in this series have been published since I last read one. For me, the series had become a bit stale and Stephanie’s indecisions had started to wear thin. However, times being what they are, one day I went searching for a book that might make me laugh. There was a time when no one could make me laugh out loud quite like Janet Evanovich- so a visit with Stephanie, Grandma Mazur, Lula, Joe Morelli, and Ranger sounded like just the ticket.
Nothing much has progressed since the last time I touched base with this series. The humor is still there, but perhaps not quite as hysterical as I remembered. I did pick up on a little restlessness in Stephanie, who seems to have finally realized she is running in place, in the same way her hamster does. Is this precursor to something more serious?
Although, it is possible this series has gone on a little past its prime, it’s still a cozy, familiar, and fun escape with old friends. Not only that, it did exactly what I expected it to- give my spirits a lift and make me laugh. Predictability is not always a bad thing.
The kicker, though, is that I am hearing rumors that the next installment in the series is a continuation of this one and will introduce an all new series for Evanovich. Sounds like I will have to read the next installment too!...more
Thanksgiving by Janet Evanovich is a 1988 publication.
Normally, my holiday reading goes straight from Halloween to Christmas.
I have thought about reThanksgiving by Janet Evanovich is a 1988 publication.
Normally, my holiday reading goes straight from Halloween to Christmas.
I have thought about reading a Thanksgiving centered novel on occasion, but found the offerings to be pretty slim. This book is one that usually pops up in any fictional Thanksgiving book search query- but for some reason, although I do like this author, I always passed it over.
This year, on a spur of the moment whim, I decided to give it a try.
This imprint now being sold or found on book services, or at the library, is a 2006 re-issue- but this book was originally published in 1988… and unfortunately, it shows.
It does have a certain charm if one is willing to overlook Pat’s controlling, manipulative behavior towards Megan, especially in the beginning. The plot is light as a feather, but it did make me chuckle a few times.
The book is short- only 166 pages- so it didn’t eat up much of my time, plus I finally satisfied by curiosity about it. While it wasn’t a total wash, overall, it was just okay and I couldn’t recommend going out of one’s way to read it.
A California Christmas by Brenda Novak is a 2020 MIRA publication.
An engaging romance!
Emery, a news anchor in Los Angeles, and her colleague, Ethan,A California Christmas by Brenda Novak is a 2020 MIRA publication.
An engaging romance!
Emery, a news anchor in Los Angeles, and her colleague, Ethan, embark on a relationship, defying the contract they signed, stating co-workers are not allowed to date.
When Emery decides to break things off, Ethan, obsessed and angry, uploads a sex tape online, one Emery had no idea even existed.
Due to her public persona, his 'revenge porn' quickly goes viral. Both she and Ethan are fired for breaking the dating rules. While Ethan lands of his feet, Emery is hiding out in Silver Springs with Aiyana, the woman who runs Horizon’s Ranch, too mortified to be seen in public.
When Aiyana’s family begins to trickle in for Christmas and Aiyana's wedding, Emery gets reacquainted with Dallas, one of Aiyana's adopted sons.
Dallas is a rock climber, haunted by his tragic past. Although the pair were classmates, they never got to know each other- but now, there’s an undeniable chemistry between them.
Obviously, neither of them is in a place to even think about relationships. That doesn’t mean they can’t help one another through some difficult times, though, right?
Southern California at Christmas – okay, not the cold, snowy climate, we often expect in holiday themed novels, but the Christmas spirit is just as strong, and important no matter where you live or what the weather is like. In fact, I thought the idea of setting a holiday story in sunny California was a great idea!
The characters each have heavy issues to face. Emery is almost paralyzed by her predicament, her ex is making her life miserable, and her parents are going through a contentious divorce. Dallas is coping with a guilt so consuming he can’t live life to its fullest, much less entertain the idea of falling in love and being happy with Emery.
I enjoyed watching the two face their fears, accept the path their lives have taken, seeing them give themselves permission to open their hearts to hope and love.
While the book does take place during the holidays, and Christmas is mentioned periodically, as with other Christmas books I’ve read this year, it is definitely not a prominent theme.
As I’ve said before, the bright side of that is the book can be read anytime of the year, but I’m still on the hunt for that emotional, warm, fuzzy, heartwarming tale fully centered on the holiday featured in the title and on the cover. I think I may have to hunt down some older books to find what I’m craving.
Despite that, I really enjoyed the story and liked the premise, location, and the characters, and of course the touching love story. For those who noticed this is a part of a series, I have not read the previous installments and it didn’t hamper my enjoyment of the book at all- but did make me want to catch up with series someday.
Christmas at Holiday House by RaeAnne Thayne is a 2020 HQN publication.
And…. We have a winner!
I should have known RaeAnne Thayne would deliver!
ThisChristmas at Holiday House by RaeAnne Thayne is a 2020 HQN publication.
And…. We have a winner!
I should have known RaeAnne Thayne would deliver!
This novel features two love stories. The primary romance is centered around Abigail and her son, Christopher. Abigail is widowed and looking to make a big change to help her move on with her life. Before she heads out to her new destination, her best friend Lucy begs her to take care of her grandmother, Winnie, who is recovering from an injury. How could Lucy refuse the chance to spend Christmas at Holiday House in snowy, Silver Bells, Colorado?
Things get off to a bumpy start when Abby is met at the door of Holiday House by Ethan, Lucy’s brother, who is opposed to Abby being there, preferring his grandmother stay at a care facility.
Despite their awkward beginnings, Ethan and Abby call a truce and soon discover they have a little chemistry brewing between them- although they would both rather not explore it too deeply.
Abby will be leaving immediately after Christmas, after all, and Ethan is convinced he is incapable of experiencing true love- and Abby deserves better than that. Best not to get too involved, right?
The secondary thread is centered around Lucy and Jose- one of Ethan’s best friends. Like Ethan, Lucy is very wary of committed relationships, but Jose is holding out for an all or nothing deal.
I loved the snowy backdrop, the sledding and the huge project of decorating Holiday House for Christmas!! Finally, a holiday story that features holiday activities and creates a fun wintry atmosphere that really makes it feel like Christmas time!
As to the romantic elements, for some reason I found myself more invested in Lucy and Jose’s story, which didn’t develop until much later in the novel. I did enjoy watching Ethan bond with Christopher and I liked the way Abby slowly blossomed. Ethan and Lucy had a tough childhood, which plays a big role in the way they approach relationships. Their development is also central to the story and I thought having them both find true love was a nice touch.
A few surprises in here from Thayne as well. I wonder if she’s breaking away from the ‘Debbie Macomber’ mold, heading in a new direction.
Either way, I finally found a Christmas story that includes holiday trappings and the atmosphere I’ve been looking for this entire holiday season!
Meet me in London by Georgia Toffolo is a 2020 Mills & Boon publication.
Delightful!
Victoria Scott works as a bartender in Chelsea, but aspires to haMeet me in London by Georgia Toffolo is a 2020 Mills & Boon publication.
Delightful!
Victoria Scott works as a bartender in Chelsea, but aspires to have a career in fashion design, hoping to one day open her own boutique.
Life has thrown Victoria a couple of tough curves, plus, she’s recently gone through a painful breakup. Now her professional life could be at risk, too, due to the arrival of a new department store opening right at the end of her road.
Oliver is a workaholic under extreme pressure from his mother to get married. He doesn’t have time for romance, and so to get his mother off his back, he’s led her to believe he's seeing someone, but the problem is, his relentless mother is pressuring him to introduce this nonexistent girl to the family.
When Victoria and Oliver literally run into each other the encounter leads to a formal agreement between them- if Victoria will 'pretend' to be his 'temporary' girlfriend, he will help get her designs noticed.
Naturally, the arrangement hits a few snags- for starters, the couple really do have an undeniable chemistry which tempts them to remove the word ‘pretend’ from their arrangement. But, the ‘temporary’ part will arrive all too soon, and the last thing Victoria needs is another broken heart.
Yes, this is a very light contemporary romance, and the premise is not exactly original, but the characters and their poignant backstories give it just the right touch of warmth, emotion, and depth. The cover suggests a holiday theme, but it’s slight and runs in the background.
There is a very full cast of characters in this book- more than I am normally comfortable with, but the author balanced things quite well, and I’m thinking this book could be an anchor for subsequent installments, since Victoria has a few old friends who deserve a story of their own someday.
Overall, this a cute, sweet romance, easy to read, and yet another perfect, protective cocoon of distraction against all the distressing turmoil out there.
The Winter Berry House by Caroline Finn is a 2020 HQ Digital publication.
A Second chance romance with a warm holiday sparkle…
Ten years ago, a scary aThe Winter Berry House by Caroline Finn is a 2020 HQ Digital publication.
A Second chance romance with a warm holiday sparkle…
Ten years ago, a scary accident prompted Branch to leave Port London, where he lived with his grandparents.
Now he has returned home to finalize their estate and will be staying in town for longer than he has in an entire decade.
When he suddenly comes face to face with Kait, his former girlfriend, it is awkward at first, but gradually, they forge a tentative friendship. The past still has a firm hold on their prospects of a future together, as the entire truth about the accident has never been fully revealed.
Kait’s friends and family express concern about her new relationship with Branch, but no one is harder on Branch than himself.
Has Branch changed? Can Kait trust him not to let her down again?
I stumbled across this book in my Overdrive library and although I had more holiday books on my schedule than I would be able to complete, the cover was so pretty I decided to check it out anyway. As it so happened, this book turned out to be a very pleasant surprise, and I’m glad I added it.
The Christmas theme runs through the story in a gentle way, as Branch decides to follow through on his grandparent’s holiday traditions. There is an undercurrent of mystery, too, because there are definitely a few misunderstandings and secrets lurking in the past that slowly rise to the surface.
Overall, this is a very enjoyable, clean, contemporary romance! I’ll be watching for more by this author!!
Christmas Day in the Morning by Pearl S. Buck is a 2020 Shadow Mountain publication.
Somehow, over the years, I lost track of this short Christmas claChristmas Day in the Morning by Pearl S. Buck is a 2020 Shadow Mountain publication.
Somehow, over the years, I lost track of this short Christmas classic. If my Overdrive library had not advertised this adaptation, I might never have thought of it again. What a wonderful treasure and just the kind of story I needed this year.
The era the book is written in might make one feel wistful for the simpler times it harkens back to. But, of course, the main theme of the story is how as a teenager, Rob comes to realize how much his father loves him.
This moment of clarity prompts Rob to show his father how much he loves him in return by giving him one of the most thoughtful Christmas gifts ever.
Now, as an older man, Rob reflects on that special time in his life and once again sets out to give the gift of love- this time to his wife.
This story certainly puts things into perspective for me. I loved the tenderness and thoughtfulness Rob express through his actions- which as the title suggests, serves as an awakening to the true joy of Christmas!!
Sadly, as I read this story and the details of it came back to me, it occurs to me how far off course we’ve veered. The true meaning of Christmas is drowned out by all cacophony of Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales, and more often than not the holidays inspires more dread, than cheer.
Rob's character also had me thinking a few other things about our society today, but most of all, this story reminded me that the true joy of Christmas doesn't come from a store, and the heartfelt, thoughtful words and deeds we use to express our love and gratitude to our family and friends will create those treasured memories that are worth more than anything money can buy.
Overall, a warm and lovely story recommended to everyone!
*This adaptation has a place for the reader to write their own letter of thankfulness- and is intended to be passed along to the next reader of the book. This added bonus is a great exercise to help all of us remember the positive things in our lives, even in our darkest moments- and this past year has certainly had its fair share of those!
I am thankful for all my Goodreads friends and hope you are taking care of yourselves and will stay safe this holiday season!
The Winter We Met by Samantha Tonge is a 2020 Head of Zeus publication.
Lovely cozy and sweet romance!
This book was the lone book left on my holiday The Winter We Met by Samantha Tonge is a 2020 Head of Zeus publication.
Lovely cozy and sweet romance!
This book was the lone book left on my holiday reading list after Christmas. I usually file any ‘hold-overs’ away for later consideration, but since this was the only one left, and because it had ‘Winter’ in the title, and this is still winter, I decided to read it now, rather than later. Once again, I’m glad I followed my instincts.
After attending a Christmas toy trade fair, Jess meets Nik on the plane ride home. They make an instant connection- one so strong Jess decides to invite Nik to come for a visit. Unfortunately, Jess receives the bad news that her Gran’s care home is closing before Christmas. While she must find Gran a new home, she’s determined to give Willow Court one last memorable Christmas party. Nik immediately jumps in to help, charming all the Residents of Willow Court… and making a huge impression on Jess.
But, not Oliver- Jess’ best friend and flatmate, who thinks Nik is just a little too good to be true…
The story has a warm, whimsical quality to it and although there are some festive activities featured in the story, it is still a great book to curl up with on any cold, blistery day indoors. There was one minor blip for me, which involved a thread I wish had been explored in a bit more detail, but it’s a minor complaint. I found myself utterly absorbed in the drama between Jess and Oliver, staying up past my bedtime to see how everything turned out.
Overall, this a clean and charming, heartwarming story recommended to everyone!
A Highlander is Coming to Town by Laura Trentham is a 2020 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Slightly offbeat, small town Christmas romance-
After quittinA Highlander is Coming to Town by Laura Trentham is a 2020 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Slightly offbeat, small town Christmas romance-
After quitting her gig as the singer in a rock band, Claire is basically hiding out in Highland, Georgia, taking care of Ms. Meadows, an elderly woman who requires a little assistance and company.
Why is Claire hiding out? She has a few heavy decisions she will soon have to face regarding her future, and she’s taking some time to come to terms with the burdens of unavoidable responsibility that awaits her once the holidays are over and she must return home to Scotland.
The last thing on her mind is romance… until a sexy guy named Holt occasions to come to her rescue when her grocery bag breaks and when she has trouble with her bike. Despite his good looks, Ms. Meadows warns Claire this guy is trouble with a capital T!!
I added this book because it had a holiday theme, not realizing it was a part of a series. For the record, the book is easily read as a stand-alone, so don’t let that deter you.
The characterizations are what makes this a fun and lively story. Highland is apparently a unique place to live, and it’s no wonder Claire felt drawn to it and had no desire to leave. The romance is cute, with only a bit of low- level angst.
My one complaint is that it seems there is a trend among holiday centered contemporary romance novels at the moment, which is to ignore the holiday elements until the last few chapters of the book. In the past, some authors have gone too far in the other direction, I will admit, but if we are going to market a book as holiday romance, perhaps more of balance is called for.
Nevertheless, the Christmas spirit does shine through in the end, adding a dash of magic to the story.
Overall, this is a lovely romance, with a bit of spice, and a touch of holiday cheer!
Monogamy by Sue Miller is a 2020 Harper publication.
Takes the long way home…
This is my first novel by Sue Miller.Based on the synopsis, I was hoping Monogamy by Sue Miller is a 2020 Harper publication.
Takes the long way home…
This is my first novel by Sue Miller.Based on the synopsis, I was hoping for some dark secret to emerge that would explain Graham’s infidelity, but, as it turns out, the story doesn’t offer that as an out.
We have two people with very different temperaments- Annie- who is a photographer and more reserved, and Graham, who is the outgoing owner of a bookstore.
Despite the differences between them, Graham and Annie have been married, happily, as far as anyone can tell, for thirty years. When Graham dies suddenly, it hits Annie very hard, but before she can begin to grieve in earnest, she discovers her husband has been unfaithful to her.
This stunning revelation, for all intents and purposes, derails her ability to mourn her husband, to go through the steps of grief in a healthy way. Instead, her emotions travel down a different path, as she navigates the other relationships in her life, trying not to let on to others what she is going through.
The story is very slow moving and the attempt to branch out and examine the other relationships Annie has cultivated, and adding her adult children into the mix, took away from the main purpose of the novel, in my opinion.
Despite that, I liked the way the book eventually came together in the end. The flashbacks and memories that aide Annie as she analyzes her marriage, her round about journey to accepting Graham’s death, and her own personal awakening, is the saving grace, making it worth the time spent reading it.
The conclusion is positive and satisfying. Annie embraces the promise of a new day, a new phase in her life, and is finally able to find perspective and peace, instead of pain and bitterness.
This is yet another book I’m not typically drawn to. I stuck it out to the end, although there were many dull spots, but I’m glad I did. Still, it was a 'take it or leave it' type of novel for me, overall. It wasn’t great, but it was definitely not a total loss, either.
This was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories (Turner Classic Movies) by Carla Valderrma is a 2020 Running Press Adult publication.
This is a wonderThis was Hollywood: Forgotten Stars and Stories (Turner Classic Movies) by Carla Valderrma is a 2020 Running Press Adult publication.
This is a wonderful TCM book spotlighting 'Old Hollywood' and featuring a few of the stars who enjoyed a brief brush with fame but faded into obscurity. It should be noted, however, that many recognizable names get their fair share of space in this book, as well.
The layout of the book is cleverly patterned after vintage fan magazines and is chock full of vivid, color photographs and the most interesting Hollywood history.
Early silent film stars, forgotten heart throbs, power couples, animal movie stars, (Remeber Rin Tin Tin?), successful women behind the camera, the first Academy Awards show, saving the 'Hollywood' sign, child stars, musicals, and spotlights on various film stars like Paul Newman and Rita Hayworth.
I think this book would make a great gift for the fans of old Hollywood, Turner Classic Movies, or history!
Cary Grant: A Brilliant Disguise by Scott Eyman is a 2020 Simon & Schuster publication.
A perfect model for biography standards
Recently, headlines erCary Grant: A Brilliant Disguise by Scott Eyman is a 2020 Simon & Schuster publication.
A perfect model for biography standards
Recently, headlines erupted about a popular celebrity accused of being someone entirely different off camera than their public persona would have us believe. The only thing that surprised me about the allegations was that people were surprised by the allegations.
Celebrities, musicians, actors, and yes, even authors have a face they present to the public- on stage, on screen, or online. Actors, in particular, have a way of convincing us that the character we love or hate on screen is synonymous with the person they are in real life. The ‘good girl’ actress you love could be a difficult diva once the cameras stop rolling… and probably is.
The reason I’m mentioning all this is because Cary Grant is one of my favorite actors from his generation of Hollywood leading men. I think most people, if asked, would say they like Cary Grant... his on screen persona, that is.
Therefore, if you want to maintain that image of Cary, be prepared to see a different side of the charming, sophisticated, suave actor- the lovable, physical comedian, the romantic heartthrob. Behind the scenes, the actor was not always so endearing.
Archie Leach, born in Britain, came to America and eventually morphed into Cary Grant- the famous movie star. Archie and Cary housed in the same shell, would fight for dominance until Cary’s twilight years when the two sides of himself would finally make peace.
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This book explores all the various pieces of the man we know as Cary Grant, but also the Archie Leach side of him. We learn about his business dealings, his friendships, his numerous marriages and affairs, and his annoying propensity for being ‘frugal’.
Personally, I found this to be a fascinating biography. I didn’t know that much about Cary’s personal life, other than he had been married multiple times. Therefore, all the information here was news to me. Grant was complicated, moody, not particularly approachable, and his attitude towards women could rankle on occasion. He was a self-absorbed egomaniac but was also described by some as the nicest person they knew. So, there you go.
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This is an interesting, well- researched, and thorough biography, made more pleasant by the author’s neutrality. All biographies should be approached in this manner. I hate glossed over, gushing fan-biopics, tell-all biographies, or bios rooted in tittle-tattle, cheap, hastily tossed together cash grabs, or those focused solely on the professional end of the subject’s life.
Eyman is an experienced biographer, and it shows. I feel one interested in reading about the life of Cary Grant couldn’t ask for a better organized, well rounded portrait of the man.
One of my favorite memories of Cary is his role in Arsenic & Old Lace- He was hysterical in that movie. I also loved all his Hitchcock films, and The Philadelphia Story ranks as one my very favorites of Grant’s movies. I have not seen all his films and would like to look some of them up someday. This book also has me in the mood to re-watch some of my favorites.
So, even though this book reveals some less than flattering information about Cary, there was nothing here that would taint my enjoyment of his films or my appreciation of his talent. He was no worse than many other stars or celebrities of his era. Compared to what takes place today, Cary’s behavior and attitudes are almost child’s play.
For those wondering if the most burning question people want to know about Cary’s personal life is revealed- you will have to read the book to find out.
Overall, this is an impressive biography of one of Hollywood's most enduring actors- one of the few still remembered with much fondness today.
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I have another book by Eyman in my TBR list- think I'll have to bump it up!
* The book has black and white photos included-however, I found the audio version on Scribd and listened to large portions of the book on audio. The narrator did a good job and has a pleasant reading voice.
Nothing More Dangerous by Allen Eskens is a 2019 Mulholland publication.
An impressive piece of literary crime fiction!
Set in the rural town of JessupNothing More Dangerous by Allen Eskens is a 2019 Mulholland publication.
An impressive piece of literary crime fiction!
Set in the rural town of Jessup, Missouri during the 1970s, this novel is a compelling mystery, coupled with a poignant coming of age story, carrying a timely message.
Boady, a fifteen-year-old living with his widowed mother, experiences an awakening after a Black woman named Lida Poe, disappears after allegedly embezzling a tidy sum of money from the local manufacturing plant where she worked as a bookkeeper.
As a result of this development, The Elgins', an African American family, moves into the house across the road from Boady. Mr. Elgin will be the new manager at the plant, and is wife becomes a wonderful influence on Boady's reclusive mother. Although they get off to a bumpy start, he and Thomas Elgin, a boy close to his age, strike up a close friendship.
Meanwhile Boady is under pressure to stab his new friend in the back, forcing him to walk a dangerous tightrope, until a gruesome discovery puts him in a life or death situation that will not only reveal the racist underbelly of his community, it will shape Boady into the man he will eventually become.
While the story has its moments of intense suspense, it is Boady’s effectual journey that sets this book apart, making it far more than your average novel of mystery and suspense.
The book addresses the obvious incidents of hardcore, violent racism, but it also points a searing finger at the more subtle forms of racism and the tone -deaf damage and pain casually inflicted without a second thought.
I loved learning Boady’s backstory, watching how his friendship with Thomas develops, and the very clever plotting in this book. I have grown to really appreciate Eskens’ work and look forward to hearing more from him in the future.
Southern Cakes: Sweet and Irresistible Recipes for Everyday Celebrations by Nancie McDermott (Becky Luigart-Stayner (Photographs) is a 2012 Chronicle Southern Cakes: Sweet and Irresistible Recipes for Everyday Celebrations by Nancie McDermott (Becky Luigart-Stayner (Photographs) is a 2012 Chronicle Books publication. (originally published in 2007)
I noticed this cookbook at my library a long while back, struck by the simple cover which reminded me of the coconut cakes my grandmother and mother used to make.
This sounds like a book that was a fun endeavor for the author as she went through recipes for the book which led to fond memories and making connections.
Baking is altogether different from cooking in general- so there is a helpful ‘how to section’ and a list of helpful kitchen tools.
The book is a little heavy on various flavors and styles of pound cakes and coconut cakes. There are familiar recipes and some I’d never heard of – like Tomato soup cake and chocolate mayonnaise cake.
The recipes for the icing or frostings are included with each cake recipe- but there is also a helpful section just for the cake toppings.
Most of the ingredients are common, some may be seasonal or unique to southern areas- but I don’t think there was anything listed that was so exotic one couldn’t locate it online, if nothing else. The instructions are clear and easy to follow. Some are very basic and easy, some more complicated and time consuming. However, as the title suggests, these recipes are just right for everyday celebrations.
I have a digital copy of this book, which is a little plain. There are pictures, but not one for every recipe and they are not much bigger than a thumbnail in some cases. The presentation may be different in the print version.
There are some internet links in the back of the book- but it should be noted that this is an older book and some of those links are no longer viable.
Although I felt like was having a virtual sugar rush and might have gained ten pounds just browsing through the book- it did bring back a few memories for me too, and I am happy to see these nice southern cake recipes compiled in one book!
The Lilac Bouquet by Carolyn Brown is a 2017 Montlake publication.
A sixty-year old feud threatens to come between a young couple in love.
Tandy, JessThe Lilac Bouquet by Carolyn Brown is a 2017 Montlake publication.
A sixty-year old feud threatens to come between a young couple in love.
Tandy, Jesse and Seth haven’t spoken to one another in decades, but the reason for their falling out is a huge secret in Hickory, Texas.
Now, Tandy’s great-granddaughter, Emmy Jo, is about to marry Jesse’s grandson, Logan- a situation she is determined to undermine. The friction between their families, sets Emmy Jo on a mission to discover what is behind the feud.
She gets her chance when she accepts a job working as Seth’s assistant to raise money for her wedding. Seth is in his eighties, a recluse, and just a wee bit cantankerous. Despite that, Emmy Jo chips away at his hard, protective veneer little by little, allowing Seth the time and space to tell his story, his way. The tale he weaves certainly puts things in a whole new perspective, but for Emmy Jo and Logan to get the whole story, Tandy and Jesse will have to reveal their part in the feud and neither one them will budge.
If you like uncovering family mysteries, secrets and scandals this book is for you. The small-town setting is charming, and the characters are certainly interesting. The young lovers are wiser and more mature than the older folks in the story, but the big mystery behind the feud is heartbreaking and bittersweet, but I loved the way the author slowly unveiled the historical drama that still affects those in present day.
This is story is a tiny bit old-fashioned, but overall, it's light, gentle, and sweet. A wonderful, heartwarming escape!
In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren is a 2020 Gallery Books publication.
Cute, whimsical holiday romance!
We have all done things we immediately regret- In a Holidaze by Christina Lauren is a 2020 Gallery Books publication.
Cute, whimsical holiday romance!
We have all done things we immediately regret- things we wish we could take back. Unfortunately, we have no other choice but to live with the consequences of our actions.
This holiday season, though, Maelyn Jones gets a second chance miracle...
Or two….
Or three…
If she can right her wrongs, Mae could face a brighter and more promising future. She also has an opportunity to tell her long-time family friend, Andrew, how she really feels about him.
This story takes a familiar setup-Ala-Groundhog Day and gives it a fun, fantastical, holiday spin.
This is a playful, romantic, and occasionally hysterical story, but the family dynamics, the great memories, and the touching conclusion give the story just the right touch of warmth and holiday cheer!
Overall, despite the less than original set-up, and the glutted Rom-Com market, this turned out to be only the second book of the season that feels festive enough to lift my holiday spirits.
4 stars
*FYI- I have not been receiving notifications for the past few days. The issue appears to have been resolved. I apologize if I have not responded to everyone who 'liked' or 'commented on my reviews. I should be back on track now... I hope! ...more
Howloween Murder by Laurien Berenson is a 2020 Kensington publication.
It’s almost Halloween and Howard Academy is gearing up for the annual costume pHowloween Murder by Laurien Berenson is a 2020 Kensington publication.
It’s almost Halloween and Howard Academy is gearing up for the annual costume party… and Harriet Bloom’s famous Halloween marshmallow puffs!!
However, Harriet’s holiday tradition may be over, when her neighbor dies of cyanide poisoning after eating a batch of her gooey treats.
Harriet and the school administrator ask Melanie to help clear Harriet’s name and hopefully spare the school any unwanted scandal. After agreeing to help, Melanie’s first task is to hunt down all the recipients of Harriet’s gooey treats, which also gives her a chance to ask a few questions.
In the process, Melanie begins to form a sad picture of the victim, as well a possible motive. But can she prove her suspicions and get Harriet off the hook?
While looking for a light Halloween themed novel, I ran across this book in the Overdrive library. However, when I realized this series was 26 installments deep, I nearly took a pass, but I decided to take a chance on it anyway- and I am so glad I did!
Melanie may be an amateur sleuth, but her approach is very much like a procedural. Lots of legwork, and interviews, pitching theories, slowly putting the puzzle together. There are also some big surprises and a thrilling conclusion!
I enjoyed getting to know Melanie a little bit, and naturally I loved her standard poodle, Faith!
It goes without saying, my gamble paid off. While I still extol the benefits of reading a series in order, if possible- sometimes reading out of order can introduce one to a series, without the daunting task of trying to read through all the previous installments first, and make the author one more loyal fan, in the process. One can always go back and catch up on previous installments later. You can now count me in a future repeat customer!
Escape from Wheel by Michael Scott Clifton is a 2020 publication.
High Fantasy, Epic Adventure and Romance!
This is the second installment in the ConEscape from Wheel by Michael Scott Clifton is a 2020 publication.
High Fantasy, Epic Adventure and Romance!
This is the second installment in the Conquest of Veil series.
Book one sets the stage with character introduction, world building, etc., and I admit, not being a big High Fantasy or Epic Fantasy reader, I struggled a little. However, by the time the book wrapped up, I was invested enough in the characters to give this second installment a try.
Now that the groundwork has been laid, the flow was much easier for me this time around, and I became instantly involved in Alexandria’s plight.
If you are following along with the series, you’ll recall that Alex has traded her old life for a new one- however, the grass isn’t necessarily greener on the other side. Her problems are quite different now, and quite serious.
Alex as developed tender feelings for Tel, but her father has arranged a marriage for her … to a man she hates.
When she gets a magical glimpse of her future, which could a variety of ways, depending on her choices, Alex begins to plot her escape from Wheel…
From this point on- the palace intrigue, magic, flying horses, gnomes, and evil gargoyles kept me transfixed. This is an adventurous story, very imaginative, great pacing and dialogue, packed with suspense and emotion.
As I said, I do not read this genre often, but I think casual readers, as well as fantasy connoisseurs will enjoy this series, as well as those who enjoy YA novels.
For me it was fun to step into another realm and let my imagination run freely for a while. The author did a great job with descriptions, creating a vivid, lush landscape, to enhance the adventure and romance. The illustrations sprinkled throughout the book were also a very nice touch.
Overall, this wild, romantic adventure transported me into an absorbing, addicting tale of good versus evil and kept me riveted to the very end, leaving wanting more!
Too Good to be True by Carola Lovering is a 2021 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Wickedly good!
This is one of those books that falls into ‘the less yToo Good to be True by Carola Lovering is a 2021 St. Martin’s Press publication.
Wickedly good!
This is one of those books that falls into ‘the less you say, the less you know, the better’ category- so to that end-all I’m going to say is:
This is one clever little mind-trip- highly absorbing, and wildly entertaining. If you like getting sucked so completely into a story that you lose track of time, this might be one you want to consider.
There is no agenda- no messages- no sermons, just a good, original, well-plotted thriller with one amazing twist that completely took me by surprise!!
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I got a little more than I was expecting from this one! I will definitely read this author again!...more
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