The Reformatory

When Robert Stephens Junior was sentenced to six months at the Gracetown School for Boys for kicking a white boy, his sister Gloria vowed she would save him. At only sixteen Gloria had become Robert’s guardian. Their mother passed away and their father was in Chicago laying low while the authorities condemned his work as a civil rights leader. Twelve year old Robert was terrified. It did not take long to learn that the horrific stories about the reformatory were true and even worse than he imagined. Although he was advised to stay out of trouble by becoming invisible, Robert’s talent for seeing haints (ghosts) quickly puts him in the spotlight. Gloria tries the legal route, questioning the sheriff, the powerful white landowner that reported Robert and even the NAACP. With no time to lose she turns to her godmother Miz Lottie, a mighty old woman who has never let their family down. Together they devise a plan to help Robert before it is too late. Gracetown was based on the Dozier School for Boys, an actual reform school in the Florida Panhandle built in 1900. Despite the horrific rumors, it wasn’t until an investigation in 2009 that finally led officials to close the facility. In 2012  a team of forensic anthropologists from USF uncovered 55 burials and nearly 100 unexplained deaths. This shocking novel set in the 1950’s explores racism, injustice and the power of family. It is not a quick or an easy read, but a necessary one. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Favorites

When she was four years old Katarina Shaw watched the Olympic champion Shelia Lin win her second gold medal on t.v. She looked up at her father and told him she wanted to learn to ice skate. The beginning of Kat’s journey was anything but easy. Living in an obscure town on the outskirts of Lake Michigan, the family did not have much money. Her abusive, addict brother Liam and loss of her mother left little happiness in the home. But her father supported her dream and managed to do everything he could to get Kat lessons and skate time at the local rink. She met Heath Rocha at ten years old. A sad sweet boy in foster care whose intense eyes watched her every move. Skating became their obsession and their friendship saved his life. Heath moved in with the family and as their dreams of competing became reality Heath would follow Kat to the ends of the earth to make her happy. Landing in Los Angeles at the Lin Academy was the ultimate coup. Grateful to be there Heath and Kat stopped questioning why Bella and Garrett, the famous and wealthy Lin twins would want their competition right under their noses. Apparently keeping their rivals close became another complicated drama within the intensely theatrical ice dancing community. Kat’s fixation on Olympic gold trumped all emotions and decisions. Friendship, betrayal and dreams of victory - these young skaters would do whatever it takes to get the gold. I thoroughly enjoyed the ice skating, romance and twisted relationships but A LOT of skating detail that not everyone will love, this novel easily could have been a 100 pages less. Releases January 14, 2025. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

How To Read A Book

Harriet, aka Bookie, loves the book club that she runs. After losing her husband and retiring from her teaching position she feels untethered in the world. But when she is at book club she feels part of something meaningful. This women’s prison in Maine is a scary place to enter - even for Bookie, the quintessential Librarian/English teacher. These women are meant to feel trapped, helpless and numb. She wants them to “hear” their voices, to experience the words on the page. When Violet is released she is on the “Outs” for the first time in three years. Her family renounced her and she is terrified. At 22 years old she must start over carrying her grave mistakes, these bags too heavy to maneuver through breakfast let alone a big city and brand new life. Frank Daigle works in the local bookshop. When he lost his wife in a horrific accident he too finds it impossible to make sense of the past while forging a way forward. The calming balm of being surrounded by books is like a warm blanket on a very cold day, and part time handyman job might be the beginning of his new chapter. When the lives of these characters merge they find new definitions for friendship, family and love. The people that surround us stacked like books on the shelves of our lives, defining their existence is simply the way we choose to see them in our story. This book, seemingly simple at first pulls the reader in and will not let go. While you examine the love and loss these characters have experienced, a true reader is reminded that books are truly part of the air we breathe. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Earth

The second story in John Boyne’s Element series, features two famous footballers (soccer athletes) caught up in sexual assault charges. They are good looking, popular and surrounded by boys will be boys attitudes. Since Evan left the small Irish island he grew up on he has excelled to attain the dreams of his father while secretly and quietly hiding his sexuality and lifelong desire to be a painter. In a short span of time this story manages to cover difficult topics and ethical dilemmas. How far would you go to save yourself? While the reader equally likes and dislikes a dynamic cast of characters, the outcome will have you on the edge of your seat.  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Fire

Freya is a well known surgeon who specializes in burns. She is a role model and mentor with a dark buried past. Raised on her own due to a dangerously negligent mother and barely there grandmother - Freya has had to fend for herself as far back as she can remember. When the reader learns the chilling truth of her bizarre and dangerous behavior outside of work it is hard to comprehend how Freya became this way. As the truth is slowly and uncomfortably revealed the reader debates an individuals innate qualities versus the personal experiences that make us who we are. An impossible question that will keep you on your seat throughout this mindblowing short story by the amazing John Boyne.  ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

What Happened to Nina?

A beautiful couple. Young, in college, in love - the world is their oyster. The Fraser family has known Simon forever. In their small Vermont town everyone knew the Jordans. Extremely successful and wealthy, they lived in the biggest house in town. Leanne and Andy Fraser never doubted their daughter Nina’s safety with Simon, they had been together since they were sixteen. So when Nina and Simon went on a hiking trip to Stowe to stay in his parents second home, an hour away, it didn’t cross their minds to worry. Until Simon returned and Nina did not. #WhatHappenedtoNina becomes a viral hashtag and the biggest mystery this small town has ever witnessed. Simon’s story is filled with holes but when his rich parents hire an expensive PR firm the internet goes wild with off the wall accusations and the search for Nina becomes national news. The local detective and his assistant are doing their best to follow the evidence while the Jordan’s pulls all the strings. Each chapter narrated from a different point of view reveals the role the internet is playing with our lives and the lengths a parent will go to protect their children. Fast paced train wreck that twists and turns all the way to the truth. Could not put this one down. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Is She Really Going Out With Him?

Journalist Anna Appleby writes a column for Bath Living (Bath, England, not the tub). A rather quiet city famous for Jane Austen nostalgia, Anna focuses on the arts and culture scene. At 38, recently divorced and learning to coparent while her ex has already shacked up with a gorgeous Swede - Anna’s social life is basically non existent. One day she is informed that the magazine is being taken over by a new publisher and her well written but “dull” column may become redundant. On a mission to revive her job and her love life Anna is challenged by hunky co-worker Will to record their dating experiences side by side for a number of weeks in a dating competition. Icing on the cake, Anna’s partners will be chosen by her precocious  children, 7 and 12 year olds that sense her loneliness when they are at their Dad’s house. From the grumbling widow neighbor who never lets up about the hedge, to the friendly postman and hot waiter, Anna is sent on a variety of hilarious outings that are both entertaining and life affirming. Not always a love match she becomes open to all kinds of new friendships and is finally excited to begin the rock era of her life. As the dating exceeds her wildest imaginations it is the weekend retreat with hot Will that sends the competition off the grid. This laugh out loud romcom is fast paced, well written and pure joy! Loved every minute of it! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Famous Last Words

Camilla is a new mom. On the morning she is to return to her job as a book editor after a lengthy maternity leave, her adoring husband Luke is nowhere to be found. The house is mysteriously quiet and an odd note scribbled on a small piece of paper lies in his place: One side reads “If anything” but it’s been crossed out. The other side “It’s been so lovely with you both. Lx.”. Camilla is confused but doesn’t have time to worry as dropping her little girl off at day care for the first time consumes her. But later that day she is summoned by the police. There is a hostage situation in a London warehouse and three people are being held. Immediately frantic that Luke is in danger she can’t stop thinking of the note and his leaving earlier than usual. That is when the coppers tell Camilla that Luke is the gunman. After the siege goes awry, Luke disappears and the world as she knows it abruptly ends. This fast paced mystery is filled with suspense and danger as the puzzle must be drawn together from a mismatched pile of pieces. Just as Niall, the hostage negotiator cannot let go of this case that he bungled, Camilla knows deep in her heart that the man she loves is out there somewhere. An unputdownable page turner and must read for February 2025! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Come Fly With Me

Judy had to find a way out. The emotional and physical abuse in her small town horrible marriage has pushed her over the edge. In 1962 it was nearly impossible for a woman to do anything on her own. Where would she go and how would she survive? With the help of her neighbor/friend she devises a plan. Judy applies to become a Pan American stewardess. She fits the very specific requirements, secretly sends in the application and waits. Beverly has everything a girl could ever dream of. She lives in her magnificent family home in NYC, attends teas and balls wearing only the finest ensembles and has a very fitting suitor waiting to pop the question. Although Judy and Beverly have very different reasons for desperately wanting this opportunity with Pan Am, their bags are packed and they are ready to go on this once in a lifetime journey. As only 1 in 50 applicants have a chance to wear the lipstick and tailored uniform, they do everything they can to pass the many tests given. Focusing on their hearts desire for the first time in their lives encourages the drive they need to be selected. An unlikely friendship blossoms as the two very different women travel the world and find their wings to fly. Romance, intrigue, and suspense, this novel is your ticket to a fascinating bygone era. Releases in February 2025! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Shine A Light

All Ellie Bloom ever wanted in her whole life was to be an actress. But after her parents passed away time got the best of her. Stuck in a good paying but unfulfilling job at the bank, Ellie avoided memories of the past and kept saving to follow her dreams of acting. One night as she prepares dinner for a date a small mishap sends the apartment up in flames. Luckily the fire department arrives quickly and the only damage is to her unit. The night is a disaster despite the firefighter who shows up and happens to looks like a movie star himself. Once again putting off dreams of Hollywood, Ellie heads back to stay with her sister’s family in the town she was raised. She offers to help out with the Hanukah play her nephew’s perform in, something her mother had done for years. Dredging up painful memories of the life she lost and career she never attained, Ellie quietly reflects as she lights the menorah each night. As fate would have it Ellie sees Mr. Hunky Fireman in the window next door. Jonah Spellman may have dropped out of the seminary but he is doing his best to mend fences with his father, the Rabbi. Each carrying their own disappointments, what begins as a secret nightly menorah lighting turns into a friendship that will change everything. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Dirty Diana

Diana and Oliver are married raising a young daughter in Dallas, TX. They appear to be an average couple busy with the mundane events of daily life. But lately every time Oliver reaches for Diana she cringes. Their once romantic escapades have withered along with the yearning she once felt for her handsome and very kind husband. As Diana reflects on her earlier life we are taken to Santa Fe, a decade before Oliver and her mind numbing office job. In the old days she was an artist, a painter. She was curious, sexual, spontaneous - and young. Diana published a small art book focusing on women and their secret desires through words and portraits. She was deeply in love with Jasper, a breathtaking photographer who appreciated everything that was beautiful and encouraged her art and ideas. When present day Diana is called back to Santa Fe for a funeral, her confusion deepens. She returns home even more distant, no longer recognizing the housewife she has become. Most importantly she still cannot connect with Oliver and as their marriage collapses she reexamines her abandoned art project, interviewing women to restart painting and possibly reignite her own sexuality. The grass is not always greener but can you spend your life faking happiness to please someone else, even if you love them? As Diana continues her exploration, this trilogy will take the reader on a roller coaster of emotions. What began as an award winning podcast for this best friend writing duo developed into three novels that will soon become a mini series. Would be an incredible book club discussion if women were brave enough and felt comfortable enough to talk about this sensitive subject matter. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Greatest Lie of All

Whoever said diamonds are a girls best friend never met Gloria Diamond - a bestselling romance novelist with thirty novels on her shelf and a reputation for happy endings. In reality Gloria lives an isolated lonely existence bossing her assistant around and desperately hanging on to her grown son’s dwindling adoration. When Amelia, a pretty, semi-successful actress is offered the lead in Gloria’s biopic, she jumps at the opportunity to escape Los Angeles. The unexpected loss of her mother and very public breakup with Jase - a too handsome actor and rising star - has become more than she can handle. In preparation for the role Amelia heads to Washington State to spend a few days with Gloria prior to filming. A Method actress, Amelia wants to capture the essence of what makes Gloria tick. Upon arrival Amelia immediately senses a coldness she cannot understand. The adoring assistant tries to remain neutral but it appears the only one who can reveal the truth about Gloria is her son. Will is a kind, charming lawyer who doesn’t fawn over Hollywood actresses and doesn’t even watch television. As Will and Amelia get closer and she learns about Gloria’s past, too many things don’t add up. A stack of old photos sends the couple on a goose chase they never expected as they discover the fine line between fiction and the truth. Quick, easy read filled with suspense and a great cast of characters. Always love a good book in a book with a twist! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Christmas You Found Me

When Guy walked into the local coffee shop Sienna immediately thought it was part of the joke. As the divorce had just finalized, her best friend Jess hung up flyers around town featuring “a husband wanted” ad. But Guy was not laughing. The man that approached her begged with his blue eyes for work, he was willing to do anything. Guy admitted that his young daughter Emma was suffering from stage 5 kidney failure and was on the transplant list. He desperately needed insurance and a paycheck for the meds that would not be covered. Even though Sienna’s heart broke hearing the details of Emma’s illness, there was not much she could offer. After the divorce the family ranch, rich in history and beauty was all she had. Her bitter ex-husband made sure she didn’t have two cents to rub together. Unable to stop thinking about this startling handsome man and the love he had for his child, Sienna came up with a plan. She could marry this stranger, put him on her insurance, and with her connections probably scramble up some local jobs. As the holidays approach Sienna, Guy and Emma become a little family. Having previously shut down all emotional attachments, Sienna is surprised to find herself falling in love the two of them. Laser focused on getting Emma the care she needs, they are simply praying for a Christmas miracle. Heartfelt, loving holiday story you will be thinking about long after the final page. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Love We Found

A decade is a long time and yet it feels like yesterday Lucy lost Gabe. Finally saying goodbye is more painful than she ever imagined. Divorced for seven years, Darren has remarried and Lucy is blessed to get along with his new wife and their children, smoothly transitioning to a large blended family. A ten year commemoration of Gabe’s award winning photography book is underway and a prestigious gallery show is being organized. As executor of his estate Lucy is drawn back into her memories, literally opening boxes she sealed long ago. One day she finds an address in Rome and a drawing that mysteriously pulls at her emotions. She cannot close this chapter until she knows for sure what it all means. Whether coincidence or fate, Lucy, whose heart has been closed to even the notion of another love, meets Dax, an NGO doctor working across the globe. Wondering if things happen by chance or another part of life we simply cannot understand, Lucy wants to set things straight. She starts by deciding it is time to tell her youngest Sammy why he looks different from his siblings and who his biological father really is. Brimming with themes of divorce, motherhood, and the complexities of friendship, Lucy discovers that while it may take years, when one door closes, another truly opens. I couldn't put down this captivating sequel to my all-time favorite romance, The Light That We Lost. Thank you, Jill Santopolo, for bringing heartfelt closure to such a beautiful story. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

More or Less Maddy

Freshman year at NYU is not turning out exactly how Maddy imagined her college life to be. Happy to be distanced from the watchful eye of her mother’s country club mentality, Maddy expected more fun and freedom to follow. Instead she is finding classes difficult, focus nearly impossible and as her high school boyfriend Adam is thriving at Columbia, she is faking most of their time together. Finally accepting some assistance at the student health center Maddy goes on a widely used antidepressant that immediately takes effect. She has more energy than a rocket ship and school, partying and visions of a future become crystal clear. Until they don’t. With the fog lifted Maddy falls into a severe mania that spirals out of control landing her in the hospital, diagnosed with bipolar disorder. Her family cannot understand how a perfectly healthy girl with every opportunity is falling apart before their very eyes. While her mother grabs the reins to rebuild Maddy’s life, and keep her safe, Maddy falls further into a complex world of drug cocktails with multiple side effects leaving her a shadow of her former self. One she cannot recognize or love. Maddy must learn to navigate this new world she did not choose and does not know if she can ever accept. Once again incredible author Lisa Genova introduces her readers to the unpredictable world of bipolar disorder, formerly called manic-depressive, a mental health condition that causes extreme mood swings and episodes of mania. As these characters capture our hearts and imaginations we learn about an illness that effects an estimated 4.4% of adults nationwide. This novel educates, fosters empathy and forces us to ask questions. I could not put it down. Releases in January, this is a must read for 2025!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Like Mother, Like Mother

Lila Pereira grew up without a mother. At only two years old, she and her siblings were abandoned into the care of their abusive, heartless father and his distant, mysterious mother. The story they are told is that Zelda was crazy and after being admitted to a mental hospital, killed herself. For Lila and her brother and sister Michigan in the 1960’s was a nightmare they just had to survive. With drive and perseverance Lila makes her way to college where her strength and beauty captures the heart of Joe, the perfect guy. He is handsome, kind and smart. Joe never shouts and commits to raising their three daughters as Lila’s career soars and for obvious reasons she never learned how to be a proper mother. The girl’s excel and the family lives in DC where Lila is a big time editor at The Globe and is rarely home. Grace, their youngest is also a talented writer and as journalism becomes her life she can not let go of the unanswered questions surrounding her mother’s past history and the possibility that more relatives may be waiting to be found. This generational story about mothers and families and friends that are like family was unputdownable. I loved the fast paced writing and numerous references to books and authors. Once you dive into their world there is no escape but to sit down and read. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Blue Light Hour

In Vermont, in a small ordinary dorm room, an international student from Natal, Brazil calls her mother every day. The blue light from her desk lamp and lap top screen illuminates her room as Skype invites her mother into her world, her life. An avid reader and writer since childhood, this young woman has earned a scholarship to attend a prestigious university and study her passion, literature. When she is not Skyping with her mother she attends class, works hard and slowly makes an American life for herself. Her mother is happy for her and proud too. But she is lonely, sickly and struggling to make a new existence for herself. While her only daughter, her whole heart, is far far away, speaking a language she does not understand in a cold town covered in white. The mother and daughter build a new relationship through the hardships they face and help each other understand this new reality. Through softly spoken prose and lyrical descriptions of daily living in both countries, this short novel is a breath of fresh air. This award winning translator took seven years to write this beautiful story in English. Loosely autobiographical she later translated it to Portuguese, her native language, so her mother could enjoy it too. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Christmas in Bethel

We meet Beth Stilton when she has truly hit rock bottom. Running through the timeline of her life it seems she started off in a bad place with bad people and it only got worse. With each turn Beth tried her best to escape the abuse and loneliness that haunted her days but Beth never found that happy ending she dreamed about. When she had finally given up, Beth - a lifelong reader - found a novel by J.D. Harper. It saved her life, literally. The years following she remained as isolated as possible but this author, whose books she devoured over and over again - helped her climb into the light of the living. To her delight J.D. Harper scheduled a local book signing and Beth would not miss it for the world. In line for hours she takes a coffee break and miracle of miracles, meets the man himself. He is kind, smart, good looking and calls himself Lee. Beth cannot imagine a scenario where this perfect human is interested in her sorry self. But he is. Their instant connection and friendship blossoms with love and excitement that Beth had long ago given up on. There is a lot J.D. does not know about Beth’s horrific past. And apparently there is an equal amount Lee is hiding. As the Christmas season approaches Lee and Beth must figure out if their feelings can withstand the hard truth. Forgiving oneself is the theme of this magical holiday story that I read in one sitting. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Paris Novel

When Stella St. Vincent’s coldhearted mother passes away, she is bequeathed a strange inheritance. A small amount of money has been provided for a prearranged trip to Paris. Stella is a reclusive copy editor living in New York. She loves her work which fills her life with structure, routine and quiet. It is how she avoids memories of her abusive childhood and lonely existence. But it’s the 1980’s and certainly bohemian to travel to Paris alone. Her boss, the one person she admires insists she take this as an opportunity to expand her little world. Upon arrival she finds pleasure walking the cobblestoned streets, letting her imagination take flight. One day she stops in a magical boutique and tries on a dress that changes her life. The dress leads to a friendship with Jules, a widow that takes Stella under his wing. Jules brings her into the world of delectable food, breathtaking art and history that may have been forgotten. Together they dive into the life of a female artist whose work has mysteriously disappeared. For the first time Stella can taste what she is eating and with each bite and every sip of French wine a part of Stella she never knew existed is revealed. Experiencing this taste of love and friendship for the first time Stella becomes tempted to search for her long lost father. This story leaves you savoring its flavors and themes long after you've finished, just as any great meal should. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Love Elixir of Augusta Stern

Augusta and Bess had always helped their father in his pharmacy below their NY apartment. While Bess, older and beautiful worked the makeup counter, Augusta shadowed her father, confident she would be a pharmacist someday. In the early 1920’s it was not easy for women to become professionals but Augusta was determined and had no doubt this was her future. When their mother became ill and passed away, Great Aunt Esther came to live with the Stern’s and help the family any way she could. As Augusta got older she noticed Aunt Esther had some magical potions of her own. Back in the old country she was called a witch but in America she quietly helped women with natural herbs and tinctures that often had better results than the local doctor. Esther felt Augusta had the gift to heal and these lessons along with her father’s would someday bring Augusta great success. The pharmacy’s delivery boy, Irving Rifkin, had his eye on Augusta since the day he started. Their friendship filled Augusta with joy and she was sure he was the one, until he left town one day with no explanation and broke her heart. Sixty two years later Augusta has finally retired and moves to a retirement community in Boca Raton. She is turning 80 years old and having lost most of the people she loved doesn’t exactly feel like celebrating. One morning swimming her laps in the pool she bumps into Irving. All these years later she doesn’t know how to interpret these feelings of loss and regret and love that still linger. Cleverly narrated between her past and present life, this magical five star read shares life’s many lessons. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Some people thought Olive Stone was cold as ice. Her scathing restaurant reviews in the London Post were often feared and greatly respected. When her estranged father Chef Nicky passed away unexpectedly Olive inherits his small Italian family style restaurant and with it the responsibility of completing the last few chapters of his latest cookbook. Although she cherishes her childhood memories filled with dreamy summers in Italy and with her loving parents, recent years have been difficult. Olive has kept her distance physically and emotionally from the man she blamed for it all falling apart. Immediately Olive decides she should sell the restaurant but concedes to travel through Italy for part of the summer with his sous chef, Leo to finish the final recipes. Traipsing through Sicily, Tuscany and the coast Olive and Hot Chef cannot ignore the explosive chemistry they share and Italian food they cannot get enough of. With her father’s memory heavy on her heart and his ashes in her carry-on, Olive must come to terms with her parents imperfect past and the scary future that lay ahead. Filled with delicious ingredients and mouthwatering possibilities, you will find yourself racing into the kitchen this holiday season! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Be Ready When the Luck Happens

Working in the White House may sound glamorous but Ina Garten’s heart was most definitely in the kitchen. Counting the minutes to escape her unpleasant childhood, Ina met and married Jeffrey while he attended Dartmouth. A long road ahead, the young couple landed in DC but accounting and analysis work never made her heart soar. While Jeffrey’s career was growing by leaps and bounds Ina was happy figuring out their small dinner parties. Her joy was trying and perfecting new recipes and feeding those she loved. One day an ad in the newspaper displayed a specialty food store called the Barefoot Contessa for sale in the Hampton’s. Far out on Long Island Ina knew little about the area and even less about running a store. As fate would have it, she saw the opportunity as a challenge and her loving husband supported and encouraged this seemingly crazy endeavor. Sharing the ups and downs of running a shop and expanding her career, there was no doubt Ina Garten belonged in the business of feeding people. More than 40 years later Ina Garten’s mouthwatering recipes and entertaining ideas have filled dozens of cookbooks, television shows and an array of food products. Ina doesn’t only explain how to make something - which this non-trained cook insists anyone can do - but she brings joy to the presentation and satisfaction eating good simple food. An inspiring and mouthwatering memoir, it’s a good thing reading has no calories. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

New York to Mumbai:

Finally finished with law school Princey Khurana is excited and ready to join her father’s successful firm. Having grown up in New York City, Princey hasn’t participated in many Indian traditions since she was a little girl. Her father has done his best but since her mother passed away she has felt that holidays like Diwali were a waste of time and money. As a special gift her father sends her on a sneaky business trip to Mumbai. Princey must deliver some very important documents and at the same time stay with old family friends that happen to have a handsome son, Varun Varma. As this young man introduces Princey to life in Mumabi she gets a chance to experience Diwali, one of the biggest festivals in India. Lasting five days, the myths and stories behind the holiday shares themes of justice and liberation - marking the triumph of light over darkness, good over evil, with more than a billion Hindus, Sikhs, Jains and Buddhists around the world celebrating! This spiritual and heartwarming romance is an enjoyable novella highlighting the festival of lights. ⭐⭐⭐

Where They Last Saw Her

Quill grew up on the Red Pine reservation in Minnesota. Anxious since childhood, Quill finds her escape in running. No matter the season she is out there with her two closest friends, Punk and Gaylen, preparing for the Boston marathon. Married to Crow, a hard working kind man, they quietly raise their two children and focus on their long held culture and traditions. One day while running in the woods Quill hears a blood curdling scream. This is the beginning of her nightmare. Unable to forget this terrifying noise, Quill returns to the site and finds an earring in the snow. With evidence in hand she begins to ask questions and investigate who went missing. It is not the first time a Native woman has disappeared and the authorities fail to follow up. While the pipeline being built nearby delivers jobs and business to the area it also brings danger and crime. Women have been kidnapped, raped and sold. For the safety of their small family Crow insists Quill leave it to the reservation police but the understaffed office cannot always be trusted. On her own Quill and her friends with the support of the elder women will not stop searching until they can once again feel safe in their village. Fast paced unique mystery that I could not put down. The incredible act of strength and bravery when these women band together is extraordinary. This Native American author and activist inspires readers, writers and communities everywhere. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

We Three Kings

Resolved to spend Christmas alone cuddled on her comfy couch, Maggie Field was surprised to find herself with not one holiday celebration - but three!!! As head manager of the IT department at a large financial firm in London, Maggie treated her coworkers like family. When “the boys” hear Maggie will be solo for the break they act quickly. Neurotic sweet Frank invites her to be plus one at his sister’s wedding, Posh Jasper, who has one foot out of the closet, brings her along to join his boisterous family at their fancy estate and sweet Leo includes Maggie in a picture perfect countryside holiday. Heartwarming friendship and a budding romance are quickly daunted when HR quietly demands Maggie make one of these amazing guys redundant after the New Year. Horrified at the thought of hurting anyones feelings and derailing their future plans she must find a way to enjoy the beauty of Christmas and not destroy this team she has grown to love. Funny, cute and cozy, this quirky cast of characters brings the magic of the holidays to life. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Love You A Latke

Being the only Jew on the tourist board in her small Vermont town, Abby Cohen was appointed to plan the Hanukkah Festival. As the surrounding towns focused mainly on Christmas the group decided it would draw more attention and a larger crowd by creating something unique to the area. With her coffee cafe barely making ends meet Abby could not resist the opportunity to improve her bottom line. Seth, one of her most annoying but loyal customers offers to help her find the best vendors if Abby would do him one little favor. Come to NY and pretend to be his girlfriend for one week. Apparently - because they worried about him constantly - Seth had quietly led his loving parents to believe he was in a serious relationship with a nice Jewish girl. Even though his overzealous kindness tended to be annoying, he could prove very helpful with the festival, so she agreed. Exploring the twinkling lights of New York City, Abby is reminded of the community she used to love, at the same time terrified of bumping into her past, namely her parents whom she hasn’t had contact with for years. Devouring delectable latkes and sugary holiday doughnuts, Seth’s friends and family turn out to be a warm welcome to a challah-day she had almost forgotten. A delicious romp through the eight nights of lights. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

So Thirsty

Sloane and Naomi have been best friends since childhood. Now, in their mid thirties, Sloane finds herself in a tedious marriage with an unfaithful husband while Naomi is roaming the world with her rock star boyfriend and living the high life. When Sloane’s husband arranges a surprise birthday girl’s spa weekend she is both mad and suspicious. Always the mischief-maker Naomi continually pushes Sloane past her limits. One evening they are invited to the home of a handsome stranger. The creepy old mansion is initially intriguing but it doesn’t take long for Sloane to sense something is not right. A charming man named Henry becomes the first person to whom Sloane admits her deep unhappiness. Henry makes her feel instantly at ease under the strangest of circumstances and Sloane experiences an attraction she hasn’t allowed herself to feel in years. While Naomi wanders off partying with the small group a series of events leads her to danger. To save Naomi’s life Sloane must make a difficult choice or risk losing her friend forever. Together the two women navigate this peculiar new life where something as simple as quenching one’s thirst can lead to murder. A fine line between love and hate - desire and fear. This paranormal thriller explores the strangest romance, friendship and meaning of life one bloody sip at a time. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Haunt Sweet Home

At twenty-something Mara’s parents have put some pressure on her to return to college. Currently working as a barista and helping her cousin manage a small apartment complex is not exactly her life’s dream but she has no idea what is. Born into a large close knit family full of talented artists and musicians Mara, the youngest, often feels completely left out in the cold. One day her cousin Jeremy offers her a job as a production assistant on the hit reality show he currently hosts called Haunt Sweet Home. Mara figures she has nothing to lose and accepts. Given she will be the lowest worker on the totem pole, Mara is the yes girl for whatever anyone needs on the night shift. As they choose old creepy Victorian homes with brand new owners about to renovate, it is not difficult to place some eerie sounds and fog late at night sending the contestants into panic mode. Mara is often so tired she can barely keep her eyes open, often confusing her surroundings with some of the special effects. Then she meets Jo. And suddenly there is an extremely fine line between the ghosts and reality. Sparking fear and curiosity, the idea of spirits lingering among us captures the imagination. This spooky supernatural novella is perfect for the Halloween season. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Chicken Sisters

It has taken Mae Moore six long years to reinvent herself. Here she is, in Brooklyn, with two gorgeous children and a successful husband, Jay. She is a self made organizational guru working on reality tv and doing well with her first book. But down in Merinac, Kansas her mother’s restaurant Chicken Mimi’s desperately needs her. Or at least they need her conniving manipulating determination. Apparently her sister Amanda, who works for Chicken Frannie’s, their arched enemy, applied to be a contestant on Food Wars. This uber popular food competition has a prize worth $100,000. Both chicken restaurants are badly in need of the cash. Mimi’s and Frannie’s have been competing for decades but when Amanda switches teams and shockingly marries the son, Frank Pogociello - it was the straw that broke the chicken’s back. Mae escaped this small town and never looked back. Well, now her mother desperately needs her help and frankly she is still furious at Amanda. It doesn’t take long for the conniving producer to pit the sisters against each other spilling recipes, lies and deep dark secrets. The whole town gets swept up in the rivalry, battling to crown the best restaurant. But in the end, it all comes down to a fairly simple choice and the sisters must figure out what matters more to them — family or fowl! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

A Poisonous Palate

One day Hayley Snow, our favorite Key Zest Food Critic/Amateur Sleuth receives an email from a woman named Catherine Davitt. She is in town writing a novel about Hemingway’s toxic love affairs. But Catherine has another motive, she has never given up on finding out what happened to her friend in the late 1970’s. The two young women had come down to the Keys seeking freedom and adventure. They wound up joining an eclectic group camping out in Big Pine. When the beautiful Veronica went missing the group dispersed and for decades Catherine has longed for answers to her friend’s supposed disappearance. We all know that Hayley Snow cannot resist a good mystery. Together with her faithful and funny sidekick, Miss Gloria, and against her husband’s better judgement, the detective work begins. The women start by tracking down Catherine’s old group of friends, researching records at the Sheriff’s department and generally being an excellent pair of nosey bodies extracting alibis from an array of dubious characters. As the unlikely secrets begin to unravel, the cold case looks more and more like murder. Fabulous local author Lucy Burdette serves up another cozy mystery that will leave you hungry for more—Key West has never tasted so deadly! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Trade Off

Bea has always been a standout, a genius with numbers who consistently topped her class. With a mind that effortlessly calculates and visualizes patterns, she excelled in the stock market like it was second nature. After attending Hunter college most women were getting married but Bea dreamed of becoming a stock broker. In the 1920’s women didn’t work on Wall Street and even though Bea was more than qualified the banks shunned her. Weaseling her way into a position in the wire room Bea was convinced she could prove her value. But the Abramovitz family was struggling. Living in the Lower East Side with her immigrant parents and twin brother was not easy. While her father managed a fruit and vegetable cart, her charming brother was a handful. Bea was expected to marry and stop this silly nonsense of a career. But she loved the rollercoaster ride of the fast paced market and it didn’t take long for the men at the bank to depend on her skills. Unfortunately, the promotion she never appeared. Bea would always be poor and a woman with no connections. As she watched the rich get richer, the poor continued to struggle. All Bea ever wanted was to help her father establish his own grocery and give her mother a bit of the glamour she left behind in Russia. It didn’t take long for Bea and Jake to come up with a plan. He could easily slide into the banking world with Bea as his secretary. She would funnel information making him an instant superstar. As Jake’s career soared, their wealth grew beyond anything their family had ever imagined. Yet Bea never stopped seeing the patterns. In 1929, what she foresaw was catastrophe—but who would listen to a woman? This masterful work of historical fiction transports readers to another era with a richly developed cast of characters, intriguing stock market history, and plenty of family drama. A must-read for fall! Highly recommended! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

That Librarian

Amanda Jones is a librarian in a small town located in Louisiana. Raised in this parish, Amanda and her family go to church every week, look out for their neighbors and always have the best interest of community at heart. Amanda has worked at the local middle school and currently as the school librarian. She is passionate about books and how they expand and affect everyones lives from the moment you learn to read. In 2022, Amanda decided to attend a local hearing where “book content” was on the agenda. She knew from the sensationalized media that this was a key word for certain groups aiming to censor book collections and restrict availability to the public. Amanda prepared a short statement on the value of a diverse collection and the processes already in place when material is challenged. There were some unfamiliar faces at that meeting. Looking back she learned a small group strategically seated and vocal were not even members of their community nor did they have children attending the schools or libraries later attacked. It was only after Amanda’s personal Facebook page blew up with derogatory lies and dangerous slander that she realized this group was political. Their motives were carefully hidden and the welfare of the local children was the least of their concern. An educator, not an activist, Amanda’s entire reputation was destroyed. With alarming speed and accuracy, Amanda became the target of a viscous movement aimed at censorship and banning books. Without going through the normal measures this group put pressure on the system by placing a target on the librarian’s back. Emotional, harmful and terrifying these women and men, most of whom have a masters degree in library science have been quieted. Part memoir and manifesto, Amanda stands strong, gaining allies across the nation and opening our eyes to the current socio-political climate regarding books in America. Both informative and inspiring, banning books is just another form of bullying. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

What Does It Feel Like?

Five kids is a lot, but Eve is lucky to have a wonderful husband who shares the work, allowing her the flexibility needed to write. As an award winning novelist Eve often imagines her life is simply too good to be true. Until one day she awakens in the hospital feeling very confused. With Nick at her bedside Eve can barely form the words floating through her mind. Slowly she learns that she has survived an intensive eight hour brain surgery to remove a malignant tumor, stage 4 glioblastoma. As Eve struggles to put her life back together she endures endless hours of therapy relearning basic tasks while her short term memory damage leaves her repeating the same questions over and over. Determined to fully get her life back, Eve remains hopeful, accepting help from her support team of professionals, family and friends. Learning to manage endless physical difficulties while suffering the emotional rollercoaster of cancer, Eve lives honestly and openly, accepting every moment as a blessing. Normally an author of light, fun comedies, this autobiographical fiction is quite different for author Sophie Kinsella, a beautiful soul who remains positive, gracefully sharing the most terrifying story of her life. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Here We Are

The Shahani’s came to the U.S. with three young children. Having left India long ago, they lived in many countries and spoke multiple languages. The children were born in Morocco, next stop Queens, New York, a melting pot within a melting pot. With little savings her parents would do any work necessary to give their children a better future. Their green cards were slow to arrive but as this was the early 1980’s, not impossible. Her capable, intelligent father found himself with menial labor jobs while her mother sewed and got involved in their small, diverse community. As they settled in, so did Aarti. She had the great fortune and obvious intelligence to be plucked out of public school and enter the world of Brearley, an all girls academy on the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Through high school Aarti, a scholarship student, met the type of girls she only saw on television. They had country homes, walk in closets and vacationed around the world. They were polite and well spoken, only the best would do. But she also realized the racism that existed was on a whole different level. Her skin would always be darker, her family poor. The Shahani’s moved to a home in NJ. Her father was running an electronics business with moderate success. They would have a yard and a dog, the American dream. Until it wasn’t. Aarti’s father was unknowingly implicated in a criminal investigation regarding money laundering of one of his customers. Embarrassed and with little understanding of the U.S. justice system he and his brother made a deal that would become the crux of their lives, affecting every member of their close knit family. With deep respect and affection, Aarti becomes their voice and leader. Learning that justice is not always just - even at the highest levels - she becomes an activist battling the systemic inequities throughout the U.S. immigration system. As hard and complicated as things become for her father,  Aarti never leaves his side, searching for a place he can finally call home. I could not put down this beautifully written memoir of a plucky, tenacious young woman who would do whatever it took keep her family together. Today Aarti Shahani is an award winning journalist at NPR. There is no doubt her father would be achingly proud. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Christmas with the Queen

No-one expected young Elizabeth to be the monarch so soon. But when her beloved father King George VI unexpectedly passes away, she becomes a 25 year old queen of seven independent Commonwealth countries. With Philip by her side she raises four children and lifts England out of the ashes of war. Her father’s famous Christmas Day speech must be given and the normally calm, assured Queen is a bundle of nerves. Christmas at Sandringham House is decorated to the nines and a few privileged journalists are invited to report on the royal holidays. Young Olive Carter has the opportunity of a lifetime. Her long standing nemesis has fallen ill and she will cover the events at the palace. Ready to make a name for herself and become more journalist than a secretary, Olive’s gregarious persona and a little luck set her directly in the Queen’s path. Meanwhile, the royal chefs are busy preparing a feast when Olive stumbles upon handsome Jack. Even though many years have passed these old friends still carry undeniable chemistry. Both in the middle of their own personal difficulties, Olive and Jack slowly rekindle their friendship while Olive remains tortured by the burning secret she carries. As these two worlds collide Olive and Jack consider their flourishing careers and discover new hope for the future.  Absolutely recommend this perfect holiday treat! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Dominicana

In 1965 people would do anything to live and work in NYC. Life in Dominican Republic was in turmoil and getting worse every day. On the brink of political collapse the hardworking people in the countryside had no money and little hope for the future. Ana’s mother had a plan. If she could get Juan Ruiz to marry Ana in exchange for a parcel of their land, the entire family could eventually immigrate to the United States. Juan and his brothers were already traveling back and forth, working hard and investing their earnings as Santo Domingo grew more unstable. Twice her age, Juan was neither handsome nor charming and Ana dreaded the day her mother sent her away. Beautiful Ana, only 15 years old, did not speak a word of English nor had she ever been anywhere, ever. The sweetness Juan initially exudes quickly turns to impatience as he works two or three jobs and visits his mistress late at night, leaving Ana locked in their hot apartment bored and lonely. One day Juan announces he must travel for a few months, leaving Ana in the care of his youngest brother Cesar. As they get to know each other Ana sees a different side of NY. Visiting Coney Island, starting her own sandwich business and taking English lessons at the church, Ana is suddenly a butterfly coming out of her cocoon. Pressure mounts as her mother and siblings demand to join her while her heart is trapped in a loveless and often volatile marriage. A story of family struggles and misplaced loyalty, the pages turn quickly filled with latin rhythms and delicious foods that perfectly capture the immigrant experience. ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Infinite Country

When Elena goes to the market one day, Mauro helps her pick only the best from the enormous fruit stand, hence a sweet beginning of their young love story. Their lives are challenging right from the start. Having survived a rough upbringing, Mauro desires a family more than anything in the world. Elena’s strict home with her mother has the two sneaking around for months. When she becomes pregnant Mauro is determined to give them a better life. His plan is to leave their small village in Colombia where the economy is flailing and danger lurks on every corner. They make their way with their young daughter to the United States. Given a six month work visa, they are hoping to earn money and return to start their life anew with more than they could ever earn at home. It is easy to find the manual labor that no-one else wants to do. But Elena has another baby, Nando. He is now U.S. citizen. They are doing well but six months is not enough and with much angst and worry they overstay their visa. Making ends meet while sending money home to help Elena's poor mother, she becomes pregnant again. When Mauro is deported all the cards come tumbling down. Elena lives in daily fear of a knock at the door. Her focus is to give her children a better life, more opportunities. Things in Colombia have only gotten worse, people are shot down in the streets during broad daylight. Caught in a web of their own creation, Elena dreams of a place where her children can grow up safely and she can afford to feed them. Pretty basic. They didn’t climb mountains or or rivers or cross desserts to get to the U.S., they flew on a plane like thousands of people do every day. Now they are stuck between two unwelcoming worlds, not sure they will ever find home again. What would you do to save your family? ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Victim

We meet Javier Perez when he is a young boy scraping by in the Bronx. He recently witnessed his hustling drug dealing father gunned down in Puerto Rico. His persevering mother, inspired by the doctors who employ her, pushes Javi to excel in school and make something of himself. Living amidst gang activity, it is no surprise when Javi’s best friend Gio heads in the wrong direction and is imprisoned. At the same time, Javi’s school counselor encourages him to write an essay to win a full scholarship and attend a prestigious university. Is the essay embellished? Well, maybe a little but Javi is a good writer and knows how to pull on those diverse heartstrings. When he arrives at college Javi is not prepared for the world he encounters. He finds himself immersed with a group of students fighting for justice, particularly for POC (people of color). Most notably, he has a huge crush on Anais, a privileged student whose father is Puerto Rican. Although she hasn’t faced adversity in her own life (and never learned Spanish) Anais identifies with this struggling menagerie of students that demand equality. Javi is their perfect mouthpiece. He looks the part and has the street cred to prove it. Javi worms his way into the student newspaper and skillfully elaborates the minority struggle on campus. He may not always write the whole truth but justifies his newfound victimhood as speaking for those who have no voice. The deeper he falls into this persona the less guilt Javi feels when he embellishes his stories to fit the narrative of the day. This satire brims with provocative characters, each woven into the elaborate charade Javi has orchestrated. Original and deeply compelling, Victim challenges readers with its thought-provoking narrative and leaves us with important questions it boldly raises. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Sequel

Her famous husband Jacob Finch Bonner is dead. Now Anna Williams-Bonner surprisingly finds herself on a literary tour of her own, signing hundreds of books and answering questions about Jake’s suicide. She never desired fame and could have happily lived as the financially secure grieving widow everyone made her out to be. But there must be a touch of desire hidden in us all. When Anna is given the opportunity to attend a writers retreat, she cannot resist. In this coveted cabin in the woods a novel pours out of her and the publishers (Jake’s publishers) could not be happier to throw Anna on their gravy train. A great plan until Anna begins to receive excerpts from a novel she thought was destroyed. A story that could ruin them all. To make matters worse, these excerpts include backhanded threatening messages. Her brother is long gone and so is her husband. Anna’s past has been completely transformed. As the correspondence becomes unmanageable Anna sets out to learn who is behind this laser focused torment. Aptly named, this sequel to The Plot is a thriller like no other. Exceptionally well written - a book within a book within a book - it is filled with thrilling twists and turns as this mysterious woman uncovers the many layers of deception. It is a strange and wild ride to find yourself rooting for the villain. Note: You can absolutely read this sequel as a stand alone but most enjoyable to read The Plot first!! ⭐⭐⭐⭐

One-Star Romance

Natalie is a writer struggling to make ends meet. She works a multitude of jobs so that she could pay the bills while squeezing out spare moments to write. When her best friend/roommate Gabby gets engaged to Angus and quickly moves out, Natalie is concerned he may not be the right guy. At an engagement event she meets Rob, Angus’s best friend and humorless academic. Easy on the eyes, she considers a little harmless flirting and looks forward to seeing him at future wedding events. Natalie then pours her lonely heart into her writing and miracles do happen - her novel gets published. At the wedding, confident that her real career has finally begun, Natalie is excited to see Mr. Smarty Pants again.When she figures out that Rob left her a one star review on Goodreads, Natalie is consumed with rage. As the years pass through home celebrations, holidays and children, Natalie is brought into the fold of Gabby’s new family, which often includes Rob. Even though the chemistry between them is unavoidable the bitter truth slowly unravels. For me this story was less a romance and more about the evolution and meaning of female friendship as life changes. None of the characters were very likable and even though it was a quick read I was not invested in the outcome. It definitely deserves more than a one star, but the best I could offer is three. ⭐⭐⭐

Anyone But Her

Suzanne Parry was 14 years old in 1979. Life was relatively quiet in Denver. Her parents on again/off again marriage was on. Her younger brother adored her and her artsy mom Alex owned one of the coolest stores in Denver, Zoe’s Records. One day while her mom was working late, her store was robbed and she was tragically murdered. Nothing would ever be the same again. Suzanne had to look after Chris and ward off Peggy, the absolutely wrong woman who was vying to take her mother’s place in the family. Suzanne, always slightly clairvoyant, begins to see ghosts and sense their spirit. Finally, her mother comes to her. As mom-not-mom begins to lead her down a path of discovery, Suzanne can no longer ignore the terrifying truth. In 2004, Suzanne returns to Denver with her husband Brett and their two children. Her rebellious teenage daughter is resentful of the move while Austin struggles with behavioral issues. As Brett begins a new tech job, Suzanne recreates Zoe’s as an eclectic art emporium bringing part of her childhood and memories of her mother alive. But the ghosts will not remain at bay. Someone is following her, taunting her. The mysteries of their family are not fully resolved and Suzanne will do whatever it takes to protect her children from the past. Full of musical nostalgia, ghosts and family drama - this new fall release has it all. A quick page turner I could not put down! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Slow Dance

Fourteen years after high school graduation Shiloh and Cary, once the best of friends meet up at a wedding in Omaha. The third in their friend group, Mikey - who is now a successful artist - is getting married. At 33, Shiloh is a single mom of two adorable children and runs a children’s theater program nearby. Cary is a success in the Navy, his life going exactly as planned. What neither of them would admit is that all these years later their feelings have not changed and their hearts are full of longing for a love never realized. Always one moment away from each others arms, Shiloh and Cary spent years pushing romance away to protect their “friendship,” never realizing that is exactly the core of a happy marriage and generally what is missing from an unhappy one. The narrator swings back and forth recounting their high school memories playing video games, performing in school plays and helping each other survive their dysfunctional families. Then older, managing careers, romance and still - their dysfunctional families - all the while in and out of touch, forever wondering why they never get together. The memories are sweet young love between two kind of cute characters but for all the hype this Reese pick got, I was sorely disappointed. Extremely repetitive and absolutely nothing very interesting about either one of them except debilitating self doubt that continued on about 100 pages too long. Sad to say not my romance pick of the summer. ⭐⭐⭐

Here One Moment

The short flight from Hobart to Sidney wasn’t meant to be anything spectacular, but when an older tiny woman, begins to walk the isles setting out the fates of the passengers they collectively didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. “The Death Lady” as she became known strolled through the cabin and relayed to each person the age and cause of their death. Some people laughed with aplomb - Old Age, 103! - while others that will apparently expire at any moment in a tragic accident became extremely distraught. Since people naturally find comfort in numbers a handful of these people reconnect after the flight to determine who this fortune teller was and why would she randomly set out all of these predictions. When a few deaths become reality a social media page is created and the race in on to find this woman called Cherry and change fate before they are added to the growing list. In her easy, breezy Australian style, author Liane Moriarty gives the reader a peek into each of their lives and Cherry’s mysterious past. Although most believe - what will be, will be - the small changes they make in their daily lives to avoid her terrifying predictions can eventually affect the outcome - chaos theory, butterfly effect etc. This fascinating saga is filled with both statistical consequences and the mystery of life. Although this novel is possibly a bit too long and at times confusing with the many points of view (you just have to roll with it!) it comes together nicely and I thoroughly enjoyed it. ⭐⭐⭐⭐