Mydworth Mysteries: A Little Night Murder by Neil Richards and Matthew Costello

March 16, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Mydworth Mysteries: A Little Night Murder by Neil Richards and Matthew Costello
Publisher: Bastei Entertainment
Genre: Historical, Mystery/Suspense
Length: Short story (119 pages)
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Lavender

A young poacher is found shot dead in the woods of a grand estate near Mydworth. A sad accident it would seem. But the boy’s mother is convinced it is murder and when Harry and Kat investigate, they find the poacher’s life was not as innocent as he made out …


Set in the 1920s near a great estate in England, this mystery will keep you wondering “Who did it?” until the end. Harry and his American wife, Kat, decide to investigate the death of a young man poaching on an estate. They do not believe his death was accidental.

Harry and Kat are quite charming, and it is delightful to go along with them as they peruse the neighborhood talking to people in search of clues to support their suspicion that a young man was murdered.

The secondary characters serve well to provide information and give readers clues to ponder. The physical details of the village add their own kind of charm, and the historical tid-bits fill out the imagery of the 1920s to perfection. People aren’t always as they seem, and Harry and Kat get to the bottom of things in a clever way.

It’s not a high-stress, page-turning type of story, but rather escapist reading, best enjoyed with a cup of tea. Readers are sure to enjoy putting pieces together. This story is an entertaining tale while being a fun intellectual exercise. I recommend this book to those who love light-hearted historical mysteries.

Filed Under: Mystery/Suspense, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , ,

Around the World in 50 Years: My Adventure to Every Country on Earth by Albert Podell

March 13, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Around the World in 50 Years: My Adventure to Every Country on Earth by Albert Podell
Publisher: Thomas Dunne Books, an imprint of St. Martin’s Press
Genre: Non-Fiction, Recent Historical, Contemporary
Length: Full Length (354 pgs)
Rating: 4.5 stars
Reviewed by Lavender

Around the World in 50 Years is the inspiring story of an ordinary guy who achieved two great goals that others had told him were impossible. First, he set a record for the longest automobile journey ever made around the world, during which he blasted his way out of minefields, survived a serious accident atop the Peak of Death, came within seconds of being lynched, and lost three of the five men who started with him: two to disease, one to the Vietcong.

After that, Albert Podell set another record by going to every country on earth. He survived riots, revolutions, civil wars, trigger-happy child soldiers, voodoo priests, jihadists, robbers, corrupt cops, and Cape buffalo. He traveled through every kind of earthquake, cyclone, tsunami, volcanic eruption, snowstorm, and sandstorm that nature threw at him. He ate everything from old camel meat and African field rats to dung beetles and the brain of a live monkey. And he overcame encounters with crocodiles, hippos, anacondas, giant leeches, flying crabs―and several beautiful women who insisted that he stop this nonsense and marry them.

Around the World in 50 Years is a remarkable and meaningful tale packed with some of the most memorable, frightening, and hilarious adventure stories you have ever read.

Has anyone been to every country on earth? Albert Podell has, and he wrote about it. He started his travels as a young man and finished them in his twilight years. He left the most dangerous and harrowing countries for last.

The subject matter alone is fascinating. Readers get glimpses of other countries and cultures through the eyes of an American traveler. Podell doesn’t describe all 196 countries here. He mainly goes into his wild adventures in the countries where he encountered real trouble, whether of the natural type—wild animals or extreme desert conditions in Africa—or the human type—dealing with wars and radical politics.

There are only a few pleasant experiences described within these pages, and the author’s words offer great insights into these other lands. One will appreciate getting a peek into how so many other people live. Podell is honest, and his interpretations are laced with humor. This book is not for kids though. There is adult content, telling readers how it really is.

Since it took him fifty years to do this, Podell sometimes updates readers on the situation in certain countries. He also had to backtrack at times because new countries were created or disappeared. One can often feel his stress and surprise as well as feel relieved for him when he barely escapes one life-threatening predicament after another.

This adventurous tale will very likely give readers in certain places a whole new appreciation of where they live. It will make them grateful for what they have and maybe even make them want to stay home. It’s an eye-opening experience going along with this author on his world-wide journeys, and I’m glad I read this book.

Filed Under: Non-Fiction, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

The Smuggler’s Escape by Barbara Monajem

March 12, 2020 By Leave a Comment


The Smuggler’s Escape by Barbara Monajem
Publisher: Soul Mate Publishing
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (321 pgs)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 3 stars
Reviewed by Poinsettia

After escaping the guillotine in her native France, aristocrat Noelle de Vallon takes refuge with her aunt in Sussex. Feisty, resourceful, and determined to make her own way, she takes over the local smuggling operations, doubling their profits. But when their plans are betrayed, a man from her past steps out of the shadows to save her. Too bad he’s the last man on earth she ever wanted to see again.

Years ago, Richard, Lord Boltwood’s, plan to marry Noelle was foiled when his ruthless father shipped him to the Continent to work in espionage. But with the old man at death’s door, Richard returns to England with one final mission: to catch a spy. And Noelle is the prime suspect.

Noelle is determined to finish the smuggling run and escape back to France. She needs Richard’s help to do it, but how can she ever trust the man who abandoned her? And how can Richard catch the real culprit while protecting the woman who stole his heart and won’t forgive him for breaking hers?

Can Richard and Noelle learn to trust each other?

Noelle and Richard have quite the past. They fell in love and promised to marry. Unfortunately, circumstances tore them apart leaving Noelle feeling confused and betrayed. Two years later, Richard returns to find Noelle heavily involved in smuggling and in danger of being arrested as a spy. Richard desperately wants to help her, but Noelle, still angry at being abandoned, is determined to make her way on her own. However, Noelle may need more than her own willpower to escape with her life.

Richard and Noelle are certainly an intense couple. Their wills are evenly matched, they have great chemistry, and they enjoy teasing and bickering with each other, or at least they did at one time. Richard comes back expecting to pick up where they left off, but Noelle is understandably angry at being left behind without explanation. Rather than being entertaining, their bickering had a bitter taste. I found myself wishing I could have gotten to know them before their forced separation. I think they would have been a fun couple to watch.

Richard and Noelle’s major issue is trust. They both expect loyalty and trust, but weren’t willing to be completely honest with each other. So many of their problems could have been cleared up in a single, honest conversation, and there were many opportunities to have that conversation. Unfortunately, they stubbornly push ahead, each convinced they know what is best. Consequently, they cause each other a lot of unnecessary heartache. I found this frustrating. As a result, it was hard for me to relax and enjoy their relationship. Richard is determined to keep Noelle with him even though it is clear she is upset and has misconceptions about why he left her. Yet, Richard professes to be confused by Noelle’s behavior. I find this very hard to believe. I know the misunderstandings are meant to add tension and suspense to the plot, but I found them all rather unsettling.

Despite these issues, I am pleased to say that Richard and Noelle eventually find their way to a happy ending. After everything they have endured, I believe they will be a powerful couple and will be more open and honest with each other in the future.

Looking for a historical romance with a strong-willed couple and plenty of emotional turmoil? I recommend giving The Smuggler’s Escape a try!

Filed Under: Mainstream Fiction, Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

Stolen Kiss with the Hollywood Starlet by Lauri Robinson

March 11, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Stolen Kiss with the Hollywood Starlet by Lauri Robinson
Brides of the Roaring Twenties, Book 2
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (368 pages)
Heat Level: Sensual
Rating: 5 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

An innocent country girl…

With stars in her eyes!

In this Brides of the Roaring Twenties story, hotshot lawyer Walter Russell knows an innocent country girl like Shirley Burnette is going to find it tough in cutthroat Hollywood. A stolen kiss with this bright, young singer may be worthy of the silver screen—but Walter hates show business and has sworn off starlets. He knows he should steer well clear…if only he wasn’t so compelled to help her!

Have you ever gone to a rock concert where you idolized the band and at the end they do an encore and you still don’t want it to end and you scream for another encore? Then you go home and you’re still pumped over all the songs they sang and full of adrenaline. That’s this book in a nutshell. I love the author Lauri Robinson and this book ‘rocked’. I didn’t want it to end. Just when I thought it was over there was an epilogue and then a mini epilogue. I’m still walking around with a book glow.

Stolen Kiss with the Hollywood Starlet is book two in the Brides of the Roaring Twenties series. I did read book one and I feel book two could be read as a stand alone if needed. I actually loved book two more than book one. I’m definitely hoping there is a book three on the way. I want more in this time era. This series is the first time I’ve ever read any romance novel written in the roaring twenties and I love it. Talk about refreshing!

The hero, Walter and the heroine, Shirley left me feeling in love, full of hope and inspired to follow my dreams. I loved the interaction between the two. From the moment they met I was smitten with them as a couple. They were heartwarming, comical and sexy.

In fact, all the characters are relatable and easy to bond with. This is what makes the Brides of the Roaring Twenties series so wonderful. It gave me a sense of friendship with in the community. In a world with corruption there are still a few good people.

From beginning to end I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. This was an ooh la la book for me. That translates to I would read this book a second time. I definite recommendation. This is a tangent but I’ve never been to a book signing but if I ever did it would be to a Lauri Robinson book signing. This was my eight book by her and it might be my favorite one so far. It’s definitely going on my keepers shelf.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

Baby on His Hollywood Doorstep by Lauri Robinson

March 11, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Baby on His Hollywood Doorstep by Lauri Robinson
Brides of the Roaring Twenties Book 1
Publisher: Harlequin
Genre: Historical
Length: Full length (369 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Mistflower

A roaring twenties runaway…

A baby who needs a daddy!

With the Chicago mob hot on her heels and her late best friend’s baby in her arms, Helen Hathaway hightails it to Hollywood. There she finds little Grace’s uncle, charismatic film producer Jack McCarney. She knows she should keep him—and Grace—at arm’s length; after all, they could be wrenched apart by Grace’s father’s return. But instead she’s falling for Jack, bonded by the baby who needs them both…

A book written by Lauri Robinson is pretty much a guarantee for me that I am going to have an enjoyable read. I’m pleased to share that Baby on His Hollywood Doorstep wasn’t a disappointment. In fact, I’m excited that it is book one in the series Brides of the Roaring Twenties. I don’t know why I count but this happens to be my seventh Lauri Robinson book.

Baby on His Hollywood Doorstep was an excellent introduction to a new series. I considered the plot and setting to be rather unique and it therefore piqued my interest to want to read the next one.

Another reason I enjoyed this is because of the cast of characters. I developed a kinship with each one. Helen, the heroine, was born into a life that she had no choice in the matter. As life typically goes, there are often turns of events that we have no control over. We all have the choice to let it define us or not. Helen struggled with the cards life dealt her. It was heartwarming to read how she chose to rise above it. It happens, of course, with the help of others, mainly the hero, Jack, and as expected Jack had his life struggles too, but together they became a united force.

I truly loved this book and have no qualms recommending it. However, I have one bone to pick. Without giving any spoilers, I felt that there is a scene omitted. If so, it’s one I would have preferred to have been in on because Helen has a rather significant meeting/conversation with a significant person and I was not privy to it and I felt I should have been. I learned of it and heard what was said after the fact because she told Jack. Prior to this meeting there was a previous confrontation with this particular person where things were said that were pivotal to the plot. There was an agreement and, well … I can’t say anymore other than I would have liked to have heard her and this particular person have this second conversation. Perhaps it was done on purpose so that I would feel the same anger as Jack did when he learned what Helen had done behind his back. He forgave her faster than I did. Perhaps if I was in on the conversation then I would have been more forgiving. I kind of understand her reasoning but I didn’t like feeling left out. That’s the only major hiccup I experienced while reading this story.

I was entranced from beginning to end and was genuinely entertained. I’m thrilled that I already have the next book sitting next to me waiting to be read. I encourage others to join me in experiencing this new reading adventure, starting with Baby on His Hollywood Doorstep. The future for this series looks promising.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

A Rogue to Remember by Chasity Bowlin

March 6, 2020 By Leave a Comment


A Rogue to Remember by Chasity Bowlin
The Hellion Club Book 1
Publisher: Dragonblade Publishing, Inc
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (222 pages)
Heat level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Honeysuckle

Douglas “Devil” Ashton, Lord Deveril, was forced by his father to join the army and was exiled to India. It was punishment for all his many wicked, wild and reckless ways. While serving his country, the unthinkable happens at home. Devil’s sister is seduced by a fortune hunter and cast out by their father. By the time Devil returns to England, he’s too late to save her… but if he can obtain the right governess, one who specializes in working with children others have deemed unmanageable, he might be able to save his niece.

There is only one problem – no respectable woman would ever consent to be employed in the house of the Devil Lord. If she did, she’d never be able to be employed elsewhere again, as his very name is synonymous with ruin.

But Wilhelmina Marks is no ordinary governess. She’s a graduate of the Darrow School, an integral member of The Hellion Club, and a determined lady in her own right. Marina, Lord Deveril’s niece is a challenge… but not nearly as challenging as her uncle. He is all that they have said of him. Hedonistic. Rakishly charming. Too handsome by far. But also kind and perhaps a little broken. It’s that combination which draws Willa to him and makes him irresistible to her.

But danger looms when Marina’s wastrel, fortune hunting father returns, intent on claiming his daughter.

Willa and Devil must work together to keep the little girl safe… is it a recipe for disaster or a recipe for love?

United in their love for a broken child, Willa and Lord Devil will go to great lengths to help her heal. Just maybe along the way, they’ll discover love can create a family out of ruin.

I love a man who loves his family and children. Devil’s background story earned him lots of points with this reader. His dead father, not so much. The author lays out both Willa and Devil’s motivations for why they are how they are and it was both believable and instantly had me cheering for them to find love. Their first face to face meeting is both fun and a little volatile. I couldn’t wait until round 2.

The ruse that they come up with, to keep her reputation in tact, was a little unbelievable for me. It relied heavily on his servants not knowing the truth. As Willia had been in his home before on interview for the governess position, I wasn’t sure how they would suddenly forget just because she returned in the guise of his betrothed.

Outside of that mild crit, the story flows really well. The dialogue and scenery are descriptive and well in keeping with the time period. I felt like I was there. I also was drawn into how unjustly people can be judged for actions outside their control. Books that make me feel something are good books.

There’s a sinister element to this story that I had to see resolved as soon as the villain of the piece was introduced. Hated him on site and looked forward to his imminent demise.

I love the concept of this series of books and I’m excited to see several more planned. The Hellion Club is made up of the byblows of upper crust. The fact that these girls who are sent to Darrow School to be hidden away are going to make such a huge in-your-face’ explosion in “polite society” tickles me to no end. I can’t wait to see who makes a splash next!

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , ,

The Prince of Broadway by Joanna Shupe

March 3, 2020 By Leave a Comment


The Prince of Broadway by Joanna Shupe
Publisher: Avon Books
Genre: Historical
Length: Full Length (384 pages)
Heat Level: Spicy
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Nymphaea

Powerful casino owner.
Ruthless mastermind.
Destroyer of men.

He lives in the shadows . . .

As the owner of the city’s most exclusive casino, Clayton Madden holds the fortunes of prominent families in the palms of his hands every night. There is one particular family he burns to ruin, however, one that has escaped his grasp . . . until now.

She is society’s darling . . .

Florence Greene is no one’s fool. She knows Clayton Madden is using her to ruin her prestigious family . . . and she’s using him right back. She plans to learn all she can from the mysterious casino owner–then open a casino of her own just for women.

With revenge on his mind, Clay agrees to mentor Florence. However, she soon proves more adept–and more alluring–than Clay bargained for. When his plans are threatened, Clay must decide if he is willing to gamble his empire on love.

A gilded age romance for the ages.

I’ve read other books by Joanna Shupe and have never been let down. I wasn’t this time, either. This book plugs right along, the writing is well-done and kept me invested throughout. I’ll be reading more by this author.

Yes, there were times when I thought Florence was a bit above her station. Women had some freedoms and she tends to go higher than she should be. But that’s what made her fun. Okay, sometimes it made her petulant and a tad irritating, but she knew what she wanted and was not going to let anyone tell her no. I liked that. Then there’s Clayton. He’s just as much of a piece of work. He’s doing things that aren’t quite square, yet he’s not doing it for ill-gotten gain. It’s a tad trite that he’s the casino owner with the heart of gold, but he kind of is. The chemistry between him and Florence is off the charts. I liked each time they got together.

If you’re looking for a book with rich characters that might annoy you one minute, make you love them the next and ultimately stay with you, then this is the book you’re looking for. Recommended.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , ,

His Excellency George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis

March 2, 2020 By Leave a Comment


His Excellency George Washington by Joseph J. Ellis
Publisher: Vintage Books, A Division of Random House, Inc.
Genre: Non-Fiction, historical
Length: Full Length (275 pgs)
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewed by Lavender

To this landmark biography of our first president, Joseph J. Ellis brings the exacting scholarship, shrewd analysis, and lyric prose that have made him one of the premier historians of the Revolutionary era. Training his lens on a figure who sometimes seems as remote as his effigy on Mount Rushmore, Ellis assesses George Washington as a military and political leader and a man whose “statue-like solidity” concealed volcanic energies and emotions.

Here is the impetuous young officer whose miraculous survival in combat half-convinced him that he could not be killed. Here is the free-spending landowner whose debts to English merchants instilled him with a prickly resentment of imperial power. We see the general who lost more battles than he won and the reluctant president who tried to float above the partisan feuding of his cabinet. His Excellency is a magnificent work, indispensable to an understanding not only of its subject but also of the nation he brought into being.

For an honest and balanced view of the first president of the United States under the U.S. Constitution, His Excellency George Washington is a good book to check out. It offers a peek into Washington’s life, from his youth to his agonizing end and all the important events in between.

Author Joseph J. Ellis has written other important historical works and shows he has done his research. The information is presented in a way to make a reader trust what’s on the page. One is likely to find many intriguing points within that will inspire a longing to delve deeper and perhaps do more research.

Washington is presented as human, but Ellis makes it clear that the nation’s first president was widely regarded in somewhat mythical terms. Washington, after all, was the main guy in “the winning of independence and the invention of nationhood” (271). We learn how Washington became the man he needed to be to lead the Americans to victory and who helped him. Washington’s detractors are also discussed. This was interesting because it led to an exploration of his psyche and deepest motivations.

We are reminded of Washington’s challenges and glories as president and surprised at times by factors that aren’t as commonly known.

Even in retirement, Washington’s work was never done. At long last, when he was preparing for the end, he contemplated controversial and important issues, thinking of what posterity would think of him. He made decisions based on complicated reasons. As a bonus, readers get to see some of the other founders through his eyes.

This book is worth the read. I have a degree in history and would definitely read this author again, feeling not only engaged in the reading but also educated, believing the information was quite reliable.

Filed Under: Non-Fiction, Reviews Tagged With: , , , , , ,

Meeting Grandmom by Jessica D. Adams

February 26, 2020 By Leave a Comment


Meeting Grandmom by Jessica D. Adams
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Childrens, Sci-Fi/Fantasy, Contemporary, Historical
Length: Short Story (28 pages)
Age Recommendation: 6+
Rating: 3 Stars
Reviewed by Astilbe

Jessica’s two daughters, Janiece and Janelle, never met their grandmother. She had passed away when their mother and Aunt Jenny were just teenagers. Could Jessica’s old toys from the past take Janiece and Janelle back in time to meet their grandmother?

The past might be closer to them than these two young sisters think.

Janelle and Janiece were such sweet girls. I enjoyed seeing how they reacted to their unexpected time travel and how they adapted to life before computers, smartphones, or any of the other conveniences of our modern age. There was so much fodder here for funny misunderstandings or for either of these characters to be mystified by 1980s technology like VCRs. I’d sure be interested in reading a sequel in which this stuff is explored if the author is ever interested in writing it.

This story would have benefited from having more details included in it. For example, the narrator never really explained how Janiece and Janelle managed to accidentally travel back into time. They bumped their heads together, but nothing else was mentioned about how a small accident could have had such a huge consequences. Their conversations with their grandmother about life in the 1980s was similarly brushed over. I saw so much potential in scenes like these. If only the narrator had described exactly what happened in them.

One of the things I enjoyed the most about it had to do with how many different age groups it could appeal to. There were sections of it that would be perfect for children who are just learning how to read chapter books, and there were other sections that I thought would appeal to readers several years older than that. This seems like something that would be a great choice for a family, daycare, or other group of listeners that has both younger and older elementary students in it.

Meeting Grandmom should be read by anyone who has ever wondered what their parents’ childhoods were really like.

Filed Under: Reviews, Science Fiction/Fantasy, YA/Middle Grade/Children's Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Night of the Owl by Judith Sterling

February 17, 2020 By 1 Comment


Night of the Owl by Judith Sterling
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Historical, Paranormal
Length: Full length (228 pages)
Heat Rating: spicy
Rating: 3.5 stars
Reviewed by Lavender

PhD student Ardyth Nightshade has renounced men and pursues her twentieth-century career with single-minded focus. When fate whisks her to medieval England, she meets her match in a man whose passions mirror her own. Can she sacrifice ambition for a love she never sought?

Hugh, Lord Seacrest confounds all who know him. He refuses to marry without a meeting of minds and hearts, and no lady has even approached his ideal…until Ardyth. But she’s an odd one, with unique skills, shocking habits, and total conviction she needs no man. She also harbors secrets, and in the midst of rumors, plots, and murder, trust is fragile.

A woman outside of her time. A man ahead of his. They must take a leap of faith to forge a bond that will shape history.

When vintage meets historical you get Ardyth, a PhD student in Medieval studies living in the 1980s. She gets a job in a castle owned by her family to do research. Luckily, she knows old languages because that talent will be used. Henri, an attractive professor, greets her there. He seems antsy, as if he’s hiding something. Could he be the antagonist?

Going through a mystical time portal, Ardyth finds herself in the twelfth century. Fortunately, a precious child, Freya, is there to help her and brings her to Ardyth’s ancestors. When finding out who she is, they don’t seem overly surprised. Sir Robert resembles Professor Henri Seacrest from Ardyth’s present. Hugh also looks like Henri.

Ardyth is happy to discover that Hugh won’t marry until he finds a woman with whom he could share, “A meeting of minds and hearts.” She is of the same opinion. For work, she works as Hugh’s scribe.

She is unusual but enchanting to Hugh and does some shocking things. However, he likes how strange she is and is impressed with much about her. She is also impressed with him. The story is filled with tender moments as Hugh and Ardyth grow closer. The compassion they show to each other is warmed by heated moments of desire and longing.

The whole romantic adventure is underlined with the theme of feminism. Ardyth often tells Hugh not to underestimate her, and she expects him to treat her as a modern-day man would. Luckily, Hugh is open-minded and willing. Secondary characters add spice to the story, and secrets give bit of mystery. The setting is well-developed, giving one a colorful picture of the era.

There are surprises in the tale that readers won’t see coming, and the end is quite satisfying.

Filed Under: Reviews, Romance Tagged With: , , , , , , ,
« Previous Page
Next Page »