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Wisconsin Bookwatch
Table of Contents
Reviewer's Choice
Moments of Happiness: A Wisconsin Band Story
Mike Leckrone & Doug Moe
University of Wisconsin Press
www.uwpress.wisc.edu
9780299348809, $32.95, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Moments-Happiness-Wisconsin-Band-Story/dp/0299348806
Synopsis: When Mike Leckrone retired as director of bands at the University of Wisconsin in 2019, he had served in that
role for an astonishing fifty years. A brilliant showman, he became known for aerial stunts and sequined outfits. He created
the Fifth Quarter celebration that follows all home football games, removed barriers for women to march in the band, and
established regular appearances at Camp Randall by special-needs high school musicians.
Above all, Leckrone always sought joy in life -- which, along with his sixty-year love affair with his late wife, UW "band
mom" Phyllis Leckrone, was perhaps the secret to his remarkable career. A consummate musician, as both a trumpeter and
an arranger, Leckrone is also an outstanding raconteur -- a talent beautifully on display in his long-awaited memoir.
"Moments of Happiness: A Wisconsin Band Story" is the next best thing to sitting down with this master storyteller while
co-author Doug Moe captures the joys of performing -- whether at Camp Randall, in the Kohl Center, or along the Rose
Bowl Parade route.
Reading Leckrone's story, one comes to understand the mix of discipline, showmanship, work ethic, warmth, toughness,
wit, and musical skill that make him a Wisconsin treasure. Even for people who know Leckrone, "Moments of Happiness"
details the stories behind the highlights and the unglamorous work that made his accomplishments possible. It both
cements his legend and offers unprecedented insights into a career that will never be equaled.
Critique: Simply stated, reading "Moments of Happiness: A Wisconsin Band Story" by co-authors Mike Leckrone and Dog
Moe is a 'must' for the legions of Wisconsin Band enthusiasts in general, and Mike Leckrone fans in particular. A fun,
informative, and inspiring read from start to finish, "Moments of Happiness" is a core and unreservedly recommended pick
for personal reading lists, as well as community and college/university library Contemporary American Biography/Memoir
collections.
Editorial Note #1: Mike Leckrone's myriad civic, music, and academic recognitions include Outstanding Educator of
America by the Outstanding Americans Foundation, Citation of Excellence by the National Band Association, John
Bascom Professorship by the University of Wisconsin - Madison, Hometown Hero Award by the Wisconsin State
Assembly, and induction into the Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Football Hall of Fame.
Editorial Note #2: Doug Moe is one of Wisconsin's best-known journalists and nonfiction authors. A former editor of
Madison Magazine, he wrote a daily newspaper column in Madison for two decades and has published more than a dozen
books, including Tommy: My Journey of a Lifetime (a collaboration with Tommy G. Thompson) and The Right Thing to
Do: Kit Saunders-Nordeen and the Rise of Women's Intercollegiate Athletics at the University of Wisconsin and
Beyond.
The Writing/Publishing Shelf
Write and Publish Organically
Catherine Lawton
Cladach Publishing
https://cladach.com
9781945099366, $15.99, PB, 164pp
https://www.amazon.com/Write-Publish-Organically-Newness-Emerge/dp/1945099364
Synopsis: How do faith-based writers communicate the presence and love of God to a postmodern, increasingly secular
and technological world? How do they maintain a commitment to their truth tradition while orienting toward unfolding
future possibilities? How do they keep their writing fresh and healthy?
Using garden metaphors and a narrative storytelling style, with the publication of "Write and Publish Organically: Dig
Deep, Tend the Soil, Help Newness Emerge" by Catherine Lawton explores answers to these questions and more.
Catherine is herself is a seasoned writer and publisher -- and an avid gardener. Deftly written in a blend of memoir,
research, and poetic styles, "Write and Publish Organically" will inspire both novice and experienced writers alike.
The chapters comprising "Write and Publish Organically" discuss five aspects of what Lawton calls "organic writing and
publishing":
SOAK. Both writer and reader are part of ecosystems. Does the water deaden or enliven?
SPOKE. Experiment, learn, communicate with postmodern techniques. Words have power!
EVOKE. Enchant with imagination, invoke the transcendent in the imminent and earthy.
PROVOKE. Surprise and awaken readers. Write to prompt healthy thought, faith and action.
STOKE. How to stoke "fires" of awareness by taking your "produce" to market.
The Appendices offer practical, useful tips for:
Publishing Models
The Publishing Process
Marketing for Introverts
Critique: Informative, insightful, inspiring, and thoroughly 'user friendly' for anyone aspiring to become an author or to
honing their craft as practicing writers, "Write and Publish Organically : Dig Deep, Tend the Soil, Help Newness Emerge"
by Catherine Lawton is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, writer workshop, community,
and college/university library Writing Instructional Reference collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists. It
should be noted that this paperback edition of "Write and Publish Organically : Dig Deep, Tend the Soil, Help Newness
Emerge" from Cladach Publishing is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $7.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Catherine Lawton writes poetry, fiction, nonfiction and essays, many of which have been published in print
periodicals, online journals, and books. In her writing she explores the adventure of relating to God, others, and nature. Her
previous books include, Remembering Softly: A Life In Poems and Glimpsing Glory: Poems of Living & Dying, Praying
& Playing, Belonging & Longing. She has a BA in English from Point Loma Nazarene University and an MSM in
Faith-Based Publishing from Northwind Theological Seminary. There is a listing of her books on:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4405056.Catherine_Lawton
Seven Secrets to the Perfect Personal Essay
Nancy Slonim Aronie
New World Library
www.newworldlibrary.com
9781608689309, $18.95, PB, 240pp
https://www.amazon.com/Seven-Secrets-Perfect-Personal-Essay/dp/1608689301
Synopsis: Everyone has a story, and helping people tell their stories has been the life mission of Nancy Slonim Aronie.
Building on her acclaimed "Memoir as Medicine", the publication of her latest literary 'how to' guide, "Seven Secrets to the
Perfect Personal Essay: Crafting the Story Only You Can Write" from New World Library tackles the short personal
essay.
With warmth and humor, Nancy provides prompts, inspiration, and hard-won wisdom to empower you to write an
unforgettable narrative. You will learn to begin with an irresistible hook ("kill 'em with the first line") and employ
compelling direct quotes, drama, vulnerability, universal themes, and self-reflection to get readers into your corner.
Nancy illustrates her advice with remarkable examples of her own and others' essays. You will read about actor Tony
Shalhoub's unlikely canine savior, Kate Taylor's collaboration with Peter Asher and Elton John in the musical crucible of
Los Angeles in 1970, Nancy and her beloved husband's adventures in polyamory, and much more.
In a culture increasingly inundated with generic AI-generated text, a well-crafted personal narrative is more important than
ever, a declaration of human connection and meaning. Use Nancy's secrets to stand out from the crowd and get your
one-of-a-kind story onto the page.
Critique: Impressively exceptional, informatively instructive, inspirationally motivating, "Seven Secrets to the Perfect
Personal Essay: Crafting the Story Only You Can Write" by Nancy Slonim Aronie is an ideal and comprehensive course in
the art and craft of the personal essay and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, highschool,
and college/university library Writing & Essay Storytelling collections. It should be noted for students, academia, writer
workshop members, aspiring authors, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in rhetoric and literary creativity
that "Seven Secrets to the Perfect Personal Essay: Crafting the Story Only You Can Write" is also readily available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Nancy Slonim Aronie (ChilmarkWritingWorkshop.com) is the founder of the Chilmark Writing Workshop
on Martha's Vineyard, where she lives. She has been a regular contributor to National Public Radio's All Things
Considered as well as a columnist for multiple newspapers. She has taught writing at such venues as Kripalu, Omega,
Esalen, and Harvard. She is also the author of "Memoir as Medicine" and "Writing from the Heart".
The Education Shelf
Paying for College, 2025
Kalman Chany & Geoffrey Martz
The Princeton Review
c/o Random House Inc.
www.PrincetonReview.com
9780593517864, $25.99, PB, 368pp
https://www.amazon.com/Paying-College-2025-Everything-Admissions/dp/0593517865
Synopsis: Financing a college education is a daunting task no matter your financial circumstances -- and with the latest
changes to the FAFSA and its rocky rollout, it has never been more intimidating for parents and their students.
But with line-by-line instructions for filling out the FAFSA and consumer-friendly advice to minimize college costs,
"Paying for College, 2025: Everything You Need to Maximize Financial Aid and Afford College" from the Princeton
Review will help you take control of your experience and:
Maximize your financial aid eligibility
Explore long- and short-term strategies to reduce college costs and avoid expensive mistakes
Complete every question on the FAFSA and CSS Profile aid applications to your advantage
Compare aid offers and learn how to appeal them if necessary
Get advice for handling the impact of the 2024-2025 "FAFSA Fiasco"
Critique: Exhaustively comprehensive, exceptionally 'user friendly' in organization and presentation, "Paying for College,
2025: Everything You Need to Maximize Financial Aid and Afford College" is an absolutely essential addition to college
bound students and their parents for the 2025-2026 school year. This current edition from The Princeton Review is a solid
and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, highschool, and college/university library
College Admissions Guides collections.
Editorial Note: The experts at The Princeton Review have been helping students, parents, and educators achieve the best
results at every stage of the education process since 1981. The Princeton Review has helped millions succeed on
standardized tests, and provides expert advice and instruction to help parents, teachers, students, and schools navigate the
complexities of school admission. In addition to classroom courses in over 40 states and 20 countries, The Princeton
Review also offers online and school-based courses, one-to-one and small-group tutoring, as well as online services in both
admission counseling and academic homework help.
The Political Science Shelf
The Path to Paralysis
Donald G. Nieman
Anthem Press
www.anthempress.com
9781839992766, $39.95, PB, 464pp
https://www.amazon.com/Path-Paralysis-American-Politics-Dysfunctional/dp/183999276X
Synopsis: How did American (the world's oldest democracy) lose its mojo? How did we get to a point where we face
existential crises like climate change yet leaders can't agree that there's a problem let alone develop solutions?
Political leaders bear some of the responsibility. Newt Gingrich, Sarah Palin and Donald Trump, to name a few, have
shattered political norms and transformed our politics into a free-for-all in which personal attacks, appeals to bigotry and
fear, disregard for truth, and disdain for governing have become the norm. But they are more a symptom than the
cause.
With the publication of "The Path to Paralysis: How American Politics Became Nasty, Dysfunctional, and a Threat to the
Republic" Professor Donald G. Nieman examines changes in political culture during the past 60 years - conflict over race,
religion and gender; wrenching economic changes and growing concentration of wealth; the end of the Cold War;
hardening regional divisions; and dramatic changes in communications - that made Donald Trump possible, if not
inevitable.
Long in the making, these cross-currents came together in the early 21st century as the United States experienced the
deepest recession since the 1930s and elected its first Black president thereby creating the perfect political storm whose
result was the emergence of a toxic and deeply polarized politics that threatened the existence of constitutional
government.
Critique: A timely, articulate, and informative contribution toward understanding how the American body politic became
so polarized that there is now a real threat to our American style democracy collapsing into an authoritarian state and/or a
second civil war, "The Path to Paralysis: How American Politics Became Nasty, Dysfunctional, and a Threat to the
Republic" is a significant, critically important, and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional,
community, governmental, and college/university library Contemporary Political Science collections and supplemental
Civics/Citizenship curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of political science students,
academia, political activists, governmental policy makers, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject
that "The Path to Paralysis: How American Politics Became Nasty, Dysfunctional, and a Threat to the Republic" is also
readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $37.95).
Editorial Note: Donald G. Nieman (https://donaldgnieman.com) is an authority on modern U.S. law and politics, and
Professor of History and Provost Emeritus at Binghamton University - State University of New York.
The Divorce Shelf
Divorce Matters
Kathy Criscuolo Boufford, Esq.
Square One Publishers
www.squareonepublishers.com
9780757005251, $18.95, PB, 184pp
https://www.amazon.com/Divorce-Matters-What-Really-Need/dp/075700525X
Synopsis: If you are thinking of getting divorced or about to go through one, you likely have many questions and concerns.
How will it influence your daily life? How will it impact your children? How will it affect your finances? Written by
family law expert Kathy Boufford, "Divorce Matters: What You Really Need to Know When It's Time to Get a Divorce"
provides all the answers and advice you need to navigate the process from start to finish in the format of a step-by-step
guide.
Based on her years of legal experience, Kathy Boufford's "Divorce Matters" discusses the practical issues to consider at the
outset of a divorce. It explains how to find the right professional to help you with your divorce and walks you through how
to prepare for your case, detailing all the elements you may be required to produce.
"Divorce Matters" even strikes a hopeful note by showing how couples can bypass traditional litigation and end their
marriage through mediation. It talks about contentious divorce-related issues such as children and finances, and outlines
the process of negotiation, settlement, and trial.
Finally, "Divorce Matters' offers guidance on divorcing a spouse who may be abusive or struggling with mental illness, and
closes by teaching you how to pave the way for a happy post-divorce life.
"Divorce Matters" is meant to prevent you from making the common mistakes so many divorcing couples make and
hopefully save you some heartache, time, and money. Going through a divorce may not be easy, but thanks to family law
expert Kathy Boufford, it doesn't have to be overwhelming.
Critique: Impressively 'reader friendly' and informative effective in style, scope, organization and presentation, "Divorce
Matters: What You Really Need to Know When It's Time to Get a Divorce" by Kathy Boufford must be considered
essential reading for anyone contemplating or seeking a divorce. This paperback edition of "Divorce Matters" from Square
One Publishers is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university
library Divorce/Separation Family Law collections and supplemental Administrative Law curriculum reading lists.
Editorial Note: Kathy Criscuolo Boufford, Esq., received her law degree from Quinnipiac University, School of Law. She
is a dedicated and skilled family law attorney with many years of experience as a trial advocate and mediator. Her
underlying priority is to help her clients overcome their feelings of fear and despair and gain confidence and hope. Support
and education are as important in her journey as the legal representation she provides. Kathy is also a highly sought-after
speaker on the subject of family law and divorce. She is a partner at the firm of Bellenot & Boufford, LLC.
(https://www.bbesq.com/attorneys/kathy-criscuolo-boufford)
The Cookbook Shelf
Disney Frozen
Daytona Danielsen & S. T. Bende
Insight Editions
www.insighteditions.com
9798886635430, $27.99, HC, 144pp
https://www.amazon.com/Disney-Frozen-Official-Cookbook-Arendelle/dp/B0CTYHP9HW
Synopsis: For the first time in forever, fans of Elsa, Anna, Kristoff, and Olaf will get to experience sights, smells, and
tastes of Arendelle with the publication of "Disney Frozen: The Official Cookbook: A Culinary Journey through
Arendelle", an all-new cookbook that features Scandinavian recipes celebrating some of the people and cultures that
inspired Disney's animated movies, Frozen and Frozen 2.
"Disney Rozen" is a compendium of recipes that each features step-by-step instructions and full-color photographs so chefs
of any age or skill level can learn to prepare traditional Scandinavian treats. Showcasing more than fifty-five recipes with
historical tie-ins to each recipe's significance in the films and culture, this unique and comprehensive cookbook brings the
tastes of Arendelle into your very own home.
The 55+ recipes are for Scandinavian dishes and delicacies include such examples as kransekake
and feature Frozen inspired recipes for appetizers, entrees, drinks, and desserts will bring Arendelle to your kitchen.
Beautiful, full-color photos of finished dishes help ensure success.
Critique: The newest addition to the Disney movies inspired cookbooks that include "Disney: Cooking with Magic", "Lilo
& Stitch: The Official Cookbook", "Encanto: The Official Cookbook", and "Coco: The Official Cookbook", this hardcover
edition of "Disney Frozen: The Official Cookbook: A Culinary Journey through Arendelle" will prove a welcome and
enduringly popular addition to family and community library cookbook collections. Of special note is that "Disney Frozen:
The Official Cookbook: A Culinary Journey through Arendelle" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99)
as well.
Feasts of Good Fortune
Hsiao-Ching Chou & Meilee Chou Riddle
Sasquatch Books
www.sasquatchbooks.com
9781632175182, $30.00, PB, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Feasts-Good-Fortune-Celebrations-Mid-Autumn/dp/1632175185
Synopsis: Covering everything from traditional Lunar New Year menus with recipes passed down generations to
Thanksgiving get-togethers celebrated with tantalizing side dishes, "Feasts of Good Fortune", co-authored by Hsiao-Ching
Chou and Meilee Chou Riddle invites you to take a seat at the Chou's warm family dinner table.
Author and former James Beard Foundation cookbook committee chair Hsiao-Ching Chou (Chinese Soul Food) brings her
distinctive approach to Chinese cooking full circle with fresh, uncomplicated home cooking for celebrations typical of the
Chinese American experience. Master dumplings, scallion pancakes, and more, to contribute to "tuan yuan" (the act of
coming together) that define family meals in these 75 tried-and-true recipes anyone can tackle.
Co-written with Hsiao-Ching's 17-year-old daughter, Meilee, on reconnecting with her Chinese American heritage as a
young adult, this deeply culturally meaningful cookbook is an exploration of what it means to grow up in a "forever
hyphenated culture" and celebrates the joy of the mother-daughter bond in cooking together.
"Feasts of Good Fortune" is organized chronologically with menus that for:
Lunar New Year (Sticky Rice with Chicken and Chinese Sausage)
Lantern Festival (Glutinous Rice Balls with Black Sesame Paste)
Honoring the Dead/Qing Ming (Steamed Spinach Dumplings)
Dragon Boat Festival (Zong Zi)
Mid-Autumn Festival (Mooncakes)
Birthdays & Party Bites (Stir-Fried Long-Life Noodles)
Side Dishes for East-meets-West Menus (Braised Kale with Dried Cranberries)
Hot Pot Parties -- and more!
Critique: Profusely illustrated throughout with both step-by-step photos and finished, full page, full color photos of
finished dishes. A culinary pleasure to browse through, and an ideal resource to plan authentic Chinese menus with,
"Feasts of Good Fortune: 75 Recipes for a Year of Chinese American Celebrations, from Lunar New Year to Mid-Autumn
Festival and Beyond" is especially and unreservedly recommended addition to family and community library Ethnic
Chinese cookbook collections. It should be noted for personal and professional collections that this edition of "Feasts of
Good Fortune" from Sasquatch Books is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note #1: Hsiao-Ching Chou is an award-winning food journalist and author of three cookbooks on Chinese home
cooking. Known for her potsticker classes, she has taught hundreds of students over the years. She is the past chair of the
James Beard Foundation's Book Awards Committee and serves on the board of directors for the Ballard Food Bank. When
she's not wearing her culinary hat, she makes a living as an editorial director in the tech industry. Chou lives with her
family in Seattle.
Editorial Note #2: Meilee Chou Riddle is a student of filmmaking, writing, and music. She comes from a family of
storytellers, including her TV producer dad, Eric Riddle; cookbook author mom, Hsiao-Ching Chou; and lifestyle blogger
grandma, Ellen Chou. Meilee is always looking for ways to express her creativity. Her award-winning films have been
featured in regional and national film festivals. She lives in Seattle with her family.
Eat Happy Italian
Anna Vocino
BenBella Books
www.benbellabooks.com
9781637745298, $24.95, PB, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Eat-Happy-Italian-Gluten-Free-Grain-Free/dp/163774529X
Synopsis: With the publication of "Eat Happy Italian: 101 Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Low-Carb Recipes for Living la Bella
Vita", Anna Vocino brings both Italian-American favorites and authentic Italian dishes to the low-carb kitchen. Inspired by
the Italian and Italian-American dishes she grew up eating, This is Anna's third cookbook and showcases more than 100
recipes reimagined with a healthful twist.
Turning even the most carb-heavy dishes into healthy versions without sacrificing taste (including sauces and dressings)
the recipes comprising "Eat Happy Italian" are suitable for anyone looking to eat better, and particularly those who follow
low-carb diets like keto, paleo, and NSNG (no sugar, no grains).
Accompanied by color photographs of finished dishes ready to serve, these 100 creative, no-sugar and low-sugar, grain-
and gluten-free recipes include:
Cauliflower Gnocchi al Pesto
Eggplant Parm Bites
Salmon Puttanesca
Ultimate Low-Carb Pizza
Wild Mushroom Cauliflower "Risotto"
Knife-and-Fork Calzone
Roasted Lemon Tuscan Chicken
Low-Carb Panzanella Salad
Olive Oil Cake with Limoncello Glaze
And so many more!
Critique: This large format (7.13 x 0.6 x 9.06 inches, 1.35 pounds) paperback edition of Anna Vocino's "Eat Happy Italian:
101 Gluten-Free, Grain-Free, Low-Carb Recipes for Living la Bella Vita" is a culinary collection to delight Italian cuisine
enthusiasts and an inspiring resource for planning memorable menus for all dining occations. While an unreservedly
recommended pick for personal, professional, and community library Italian Cookbook collections, it should be noted that
this paperback edition of "Eat Happy Italian" from BenBella Books is also readily available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Anna Vocino (https://annavocino.com) is a talented culinary personality and tastemaker who brings to the
table a wealth of experience as a cookbook author, actor, stand-up comedian, podcast cohost, clean-eating expert, and
founder of Eat Happy Kitchen -- a natural food company making organically sourced, gluten-free, grain-free, and filler-free
foods with no sugar added. Anna 's recipes and expertise on everything from spices to kitchen appliances have been
featured in Women's Health, Parade, Consumer Reports, and other consumer media outlets.
The Self-Reliant Kitchen
Michelle Mullennix
Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
9781510778115, $27.99, HC, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Self-Reliant-Kitchen-Scratch-Farm-Table/dp/151077811X
Synopsis: If you are ready to stop relying on overly processed foods from the grocery store and fast-food joints, and start
nourishing yourself and your family with healthier options, "The Self-Reliant Kitchen: From-Scratch Sourdough Breads,
Homemade Cheese, and Farm-to-Table Meals" was created specifically for you.
Through easy-to-follow recipes and traditional cooking skills, this cookbook by Michelle Mullennix is a culinary
compendium of recipes that will inspire and empower you to create a more self-reliant kitchen providing palate pleasing
and nutritious menus for all dining occasions
"The Self-Reliant Kitchen" offers ideal DIY kitchen cook recipes that include:
Sourdough Cinnamon Raisin Bread
Home-Churned Butter
Raspberry Preserves
Homemade Pasta
Chicken Pot Pie
Sourdough Fried Chicken
Pot Roast
Nourishing Bone Broth
Homemade Pickles
Healthy Grape Gummies
Homemade Maple Vanilla Marshmallows
And a great many more!
With the help of "The Self-Reliant Kitchen: From-Scratch Sourdough Breads, Homemade Cheese, and Farm-to-Table
Meals", even the most novice of family kitchen cooks will learn how to replace manufactured, over-processed store bought
food items with delicious from-scratch dishes one recipe
Critique: Thoroughly 'user friendly' in the organization and step-by-step presentation, as well as being magnificently
illustrated throughout with full page, full color photographs of finished dishes, "The Self-Reliant Kitchen: From-Scratch
Sourdough Breads, Homemade Cheese, and Farm-to-Table Meals" is a strongly recommended pick for personal,
professional, and community library cookbook collections. It should be noted for those with an interest in homemade and
wholesome cuisine that "The Self-Reliant Kitchen: From-Scratch Sourdough Breads, Homemade Cheese, and
Farm-to-Table Meals" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $19.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Michelle Mullennix has been creating recipes as long as she can remember, but in more recent years she
has focused on becoming more self-reliant in the kitchen. She lives on a homestead in Cave Creek, Arizona.
The Curated Board
Bebe Black Carminito, author
Marie Reginato, photographer
Cameron Company
c/o Harry N. Abrams, Inc.
www.abramsbooks.com
9781949480511, $24.99, HC, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Curated-Board-Inspired-Platters-Occasion/dp/1949480518
Synopsis: With the publication of "The Curated Board: Inspired Platters for Any Occasion", food stylist Bebe Black
Carminito shows both novice and experienced kitchen cooks how they can elevate the art of composing delicious
small-bite meals. From family breakfast and afternoon tea to date night and game night, Bebe presents twenty-eight themed
boards and platters with more than sixty-five effortless recipes and suggests perfect pairings along with styling tips for
optimal presentation.
Presenting a diverse array of platters from culinary influencers celebrating their gastronomic heritage, "The Curated Board"
invites you to create spreads for all your special occasions. Raid your pantry and fridge and pair your favorite prepared
foods with Bebe's delicious homemade dips, snacks, baked goods, salads, cocktails, and sweets. Relish in Green Chile,
Spinach & Artichoke Dip, Pineapple-Jalapeno Cheese Balls, Herbes de Provence Grissini, Campanelle Pasta Salad, Basil
Gimlets, and Cherry-Almond Oat Bars, among many others -- the culinary possibilities are endless.
Curated themed boards for any occasion includes:
Granola, Fruit & Yoghurt Board
Lebanese Sheet Pan Brunch
An English Tea Party
Girl's Day Charcuter-Yay Board
Ukranian Budmo Board
Aperitivo Time
Dim Sum Celebration
Chocolate Lover's Soiree
Halva-Licious Board
These fun and easy-to-prepare meals will have you pulling out your platters and boards, making the most of your pantry,
and gathering with loved ones around a cornucopia of delectable small bites.
Critique: Enhanced with the inclusion of a profusion of beautifully photographed finished boards by photographer Marie
Reginato, this large format (7.85 x 0.9 x 9.55 inches, 1.6 pounds) hardcover edition of Bebe Black Carminito's "The
Curated Board: Inspired Platters & Spreads for Any Occasion" from Cameron Company is a pleasure to browse through
and ideal for planning menus with, including wine pairing, garnishing, and the creation of memorably delicious appetizers.
Also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $16.99), "The Curated Board" is especially and unreservedly
recommended for personal, professional, family, and community library cookbook collections.
Editorial Note #1: Bebe Black Carminito (www.atinysoiree.com) is a food stylist, recipe developer, content creator, and
professional makeup artist. She co-runs and oversees three global cookbook clubs. Her foray into cookbooks was The
California Date Cookbook, as well as styling for 52 Shabbats. Bebe attended the San Francisco Cooking School and started
her culinary career at A16, an acclaimed restaurant in San Francisco.
Editorial Note #2: Marie Reginato (https://8thandlake.wixsite.com/portfolio) is a photographer, cooking video host, and
author of Alternative Vegan and The Ultimate Vegan Cookbook. She lives in Los Angeles, California. Susan Spungen, a
founding food editor at Martha Stewart Living, was the culinary consultant and food stylist on the films Julie & Julia, It's
Complicated, and Eat, Pray, Love. She is also the author of Recipes: A Collection for the Modern Cook, What's a Hostess
to Do?, and Strawberries (A Short Stack Edition) and co-author of the bestselling Martha Stewart's Hors d'Oeuvres
Handbook.
Vegan Japan
Julia Boucachard
The Experiment Publishing
https://theexperimentpublishing.com
9798893030068, $24.95, HC, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Vegan-Japan-Comforting-Plant-Based-Recipes/dp/B0CT7GH93P
Synopsis: Japanese French chef Julia Boucachard grew up devouring all of the above. When she went vegan, she was
determined not to give up any of her childhood favorites. In Vegan Japan, she shows that cooking nourishing,
flavor-packed plant-based Japanese food doesn't have to be complicated.
With an emphasis on seasonality, balanced flavors, and simple techniques, this is her plant-based celebration of Japanese
cuisine and the myriad vegetables that make their way onto the Japanese plate. Inside, you'll find:
The classics, including Kabocha Stew, Miso Butter Ramen, Yakisoba, Onigiri, Gyoza, Melon Pan, and many more
Yoshoku (Western dishes given playful Japanese spins) like Napolitan and Japanese Potato Salad
Cleverly veganized takes on meat and seafood dishes like Karaage and Maguro Don
Even-better-homemade condiments and sauces such as Ponzu Sauce, Mentsuyu, and Japanese Mayonnaise
Plus tempting street foods, wholesome vegetable sides, sweet desserts, and an illustrated guide to must-have Japanese
pantry staples
Critique: Warming soups and slurp-able noodles. Refreshing vegetable sides. Indulgent street foods. Adorable bite-size
desserts. "Vegan Japan: 70 Comforting Plant-Based Recipes" is an impressive compendium of 'kitchen cook friendly'
authentic Japanes cuisine recipes for vegans. Enhanced throughout with full color photographs and illustrations of
completed dishes and step-by-step recipe instructions. A fun and inspiring culinary resource to plan truly memorable
menus for both formal and informal dining occasions for vegans, vegetartarians, and Japanese cuisine enthusiasts that is
also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, 15.99), and enhanced throughout with full color photographs and
illustrations of completed dishes and step-by-step recipe instructions, "Vegan Japan" is a solid and unreservedly
recommended pick for personal, family, professional, and community library Vegan/Vegetarian and Ethnic/Japanese
cookbook collections.
Editorial Note: Julia Boucachard grew up splitting her time between Tokyo and France. After becoming vegetarian and
then vegan, she found her restaurant choices drastically limited. After earning a degree in biology and a master's degree in
environment she became a self-taught cook, starting a catering business before opening the Mori Cafe in Paris, where she
shares plant-baed recipes inspired by the food of her childhood.
Slurp: Recipes to Elevate Your Noodles
Dennis Yen
Tra Publishing
www.trapublishing.com
9781962098106, $22.00, HC, 156pp
https://www.amazon.com/Slurp-Recipes-Elevate-Your-Noodles/dp/1962098109
Synopsis: With the publication of "Slurp: Recipes to Elevate Your Noodles" from Tra Publishing, Dennis Yen shares the
genuine noodle dishes he grew up with. He also shares the philosophy that has made him an internet sensation: that
noodles shouldn't be complicated.
From dan dan noodles to dumplings, slow-cooked broths to instant ramen, "Slurp: Recipes to Elevate Your Noodles" is an
accessible cookbook that includes slurp-friendly recipes for all levels inspired by humble kitchens in Southeast Asia.
Inside the family cook will find recipes for dumplings, sauces, and seasonings that can elevate simple noodles, as well as
rich broths that range from classic noodle dishes (mamma's pho) to innovative variations (birria taco ramen).
Critique: Visually enhanced throughout with full color, full page photographs of finished dishes and 'kitchen cook friendly'
recipes, "Slurp: Recipes to Elevate Your Noodles" is a remarkable culinary compendium of palate pleasing, appetite
satisfying ways to prepare magnificent Asian dishes showcasing the noodle. Simply but emphatically stated, "Slurp:
Recipes to Elevate Your Noodles" is unreservedly recommended as a prized addition to personal, professional, and
community library cookbook collections.
Editorial Note: Dennis Yen is an interior designer, avid home cook, and content creator. He finds joy in crafting diverse
dishes influenced by Southeast Asian cuisines, ranging from elaborate 48-hour broths to comforting instant noodles.
Inspired by his family, especially his mother, Dennis seeks to preserve the taste and memories of his upbringing in each
delightful creation.
Wanda E. Brunstetter's Amish Friends Comfort Foods Cookbook
Wanda E. Brunstetter
Barbour Publishing
www.barbourbooks.com
9781636099736, $17.99, Spiral Bound, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Wanda-Brunstetters-Friends-Comfort-Cookbook/dp/1636099734
Synopsis: A culinary compendium of favorite Amish recipes by Wanda E. Brunstetter (the acclaimed author of Amish
fiction) "Wanda E. Brunstetter's Amish Friends Comfort Foods Cookbook: More Than 200 Recipes That Taste Like Home
and Love" is a an Amish cookbook that delivers food for comfort and joy.
Thoroughly 'kitchen cook friendly', more than 200 palate pleasing, appetite satisfying recipes from Amish and Mennonite
cooks are divided into traditional categories from main dishes and sides to desserts and snacks, encased in a lay-flat spiral
binding, and presented in full color.
Critique: An absolute 'must have' for the legions of Wanda E. Brunstetter fiction fans, home and family cooks of all ages
will fully appreciate adding this Amish cookbook to their collection. The recipes within are ideal for planning memorable
menus featuring authentic Amish cuisine for any and all dining occasions -- especially when a little comfort from the
stresses of life is what's needed. "Wanda E. Brunstetter's Amish Friends Comfort Foods Cookbook" is especially and
unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, and community library cookbook collections.
Editorial Note: Wanda E. Brunstetter (www.wandabrunstetter.com) is one of the founders of the Amish fiction genre. She
has written more than 100 books translated in four languages. With over 12 million copies sold, Wanda's stories
consistently earn spots on the nation's most prestigious bestseller lists and have received numerous awards.
The Photography Shelf
Affrilachia: Testimonies
Chris Aluka Berry, author
Kelly Elaine Navies, contributor
Maia A. Surdam, contributor
The University Press of Kentucky
www.kentuckypress.com
9781985900929, $50.00, HC, 252pp
https://www.amazon.com/Affrilachia-Testimonies-Appalachian-Futures-Native/dp/1985900920
Synopsis: "Affrilachia", a term first coined in 1991 by Kentucky poet Frank X Walker, refers to the cultural contributions
of African Americans who live in Appalachia, a largely mountainous region stretching over thirteen states from
Mississippi to New York. Although Black Americans have greatly influenced the popular culture landscape in this region,
their stories, trials, and triumphs are often undocumented because Appalachia is perceived as wholly white.
Published by The University Press of Kentucky, "Affrilachia: Testimonies" is stunning visual history created by
photographer and curator Chris Aluka Berry who gives voice to the broad spectrum of African Americans who have lived
in the Appalachian region over the centuries.
Berry spent six years in western North Carolina, northeast Georgia, and eastern Tennessee, immersed himself in the
communities and lives of Black Appalachians to present the diversity and commonalities of the proud people in the region.
His intimate and revealing photographs capture African Americans in various settings including churches, homes, revival
services, family gatherings, and homegoing celebrations.
Completing this comprehensive collection of photographs are powerful narratives from the people who inhabit these
places, as well as contributions from Appalachian writers Kelly Elaine Navies and Maia A. Surdam, whose poignant and
powerful poems and essays offer historical perspective and broaden the archival importance of "Affrilachia:
Testimonies".
The first book of its kind, "Affrilachia: Testimonies" is an inspired historical artifact that honors, represents, and celebrates
the proud people of color whose history and existence has greatly contributed to the broad tapestry of Appalachia.
Critique: This large format ( 11.00 x 11.00 in, 4 pounds) hardcover coffee-table style edition of "Affrilachia: Testimonials"
by Chris Aluka Berry is enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of 1 map, 11 b/w illustrations, and 112 full
color illustrations. and a ten page listing of photograph credits and captions. "Affrilachia: Testimonials" is a unique,
informative, fascinating, and invaluable contribution that is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal,
professional, community, and college/university library Contemporary Photography & Black History collections and
supplemental curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note #1: Chris Aluka Berry has worked in the South as an award-winning documentary photographer for more
than twenty years, and his images have appeared in major American and international publications.
(https://www.alukastorytellingphotography.com/portfolio)
Editorial Note #2: Kelly Elaine Navies (https://oralhistory.org/directory/kelly-elaine-navies) is a poet, writer, and oral
historian. Her oral history projects and interviews are located at the Southern Oral History Program, the Reginald F. Lewis
Maryland Museum of African American History and Culture, the Washington DC Public Library Peoples' Archive, and the
Smithsonian National Museum of African American History and Culture, where she currently coordinates the oral history
program.
Editorial Note #3: Maia A. Surdam (www.linkedin.com/in/maia-surdam-4523b2171) is an historian, educator, and author
who lives in western North Carolina. She holds a doctorate in US history and her work centers on rural communities. She
is currently the programs director of the Partnership for Appalachian Girls' Education (PAGE), where she empowers
adolescent girls in rural Appalachia.
The Business Shelf
Survive, Reset, Thrive
Rebecca Homkes
Kogan Page Inc.
www.koganpage.com
9781398607880, $89.00, HC, 280pp
9781398607866, $23.23, PB
https://www.amazon.com/Survive-Reset-Thrive-Implementing-High-Growth/dp/139860786X
Synopsis: Strategy is about making choices around where to play and where not to play, how to win, how to allocate
resources among competing priorities and, critically, what to do. All these choices must be made when you never know
everything you would like to know. "Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough Growth Strategy in Volatile Times" by
Rebecca Homkes is about facing uncertainty head-on and then playing each round to not just survive, but thrive. Doing so
only comes from the power move of executing a reset: the differentiated step where you embrace change, new insights and
new opportunities to set your organization up for sustainable performance.
"Survive, Reset, Thrive" is a playbook for leaders derived from Homkes' first-hand experience working with executive
teams across industries from software, technology, retail, fashion and construction through to manufacturing. Drawing
from over a decade of rich real-world experience, Homkes illustrates how to navigate the most complex strategic situations
with a simple, executable approach. Homkes also explains how proactively to stabilize your business to withstand and
grow through market shocks, reset your strategy to take account of new realities and thrive through uncertainty.
Critique: Exceptional, insightful, informative, 'real world practical', "Survive, Reset, Thrive: Leading Breakthrough
Growth Strategy in Volatile Times" will prove of immense value for readers with an interest and responsibility for business
management, planning, leadership, morale and motivation. This hardcover edition of "Survive, Reset, Thrive" is
specifically recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university library Business Management
collections and supplemental MBA curriculum studies lists. It should be noted that "Survive, Reset, Thrive" is also
readily available from Kogan-Page in a paperback edition (9781398607866, $23.23) and in a digital book format (Kindle,
$22.07).
Editorial Note: Rebecca Homkes (www.rebeccahomkes.com) is a high-growth strategy specialist and CEO and executive
advisor. She is a Lecturer at the London Business School, Faculty at Duke Corporate Executive Education, and a former
fellow at the London School of Economics Centre for Economic Performance. A global keynote speaker and recognized
thought leader, she is also the global Faculty Director of the Active Learning Program with the Young Presidents
Organization (YPO), leads several fintech accelerators, and serves on the boards of many high-growth companies. She
earned her doctorate at the London School of Economics as a Marshall Scholar and is now based in Miami, USA and
London, UK.
Be the Unicorn
William Vanderbloemen
HarperCollins Leadership
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9781400247103, $29.99, HC, 272pp
https://www.amazon.com/Be-Unicorn-Data-Driven-Separate-Leaders/dp/1400247101
Synopsis: How do I stand out? How do I become irreplaceable? With a crowded workforce, an unstable job landscape, and
the rise of AI, these questions are the ones that everyone either is or should be asking themselves.
William Vanderbloemen has asked these questions over the past 15 years while running one of the world's top executive
search firms. Through extensive research of over 30,000 top leaders and proprietary data, in "Be the Unicorn: 12
Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest", Vanderbloemen has identified the 12 habits that the best
of the best have in common. Traits such as authenticity, responsiveness, agility, and the ability to problem solve, among
others.
Each habit includes information on What We Know (the hard data behind why the habit is so transformative), What We've
Seen (first-hand accounts by high-achieving professionals on how they live the habit), and What We Do (simple ways to
build this habit into your daily routine).
"Be the Unicorn" will help you: Discover the top twelve soft skills the most successful leaders, the top 1%, have;
Understand how to develop these soft skills in your own life for better job success; Learn how to apply soft skills to
interpersonal relationships outside of work; Understand how these soft skills can be applied in different work
environments and job fields, especially with the rise of AI technology.
Critique: Informative, insightful, and timely with respect to our on-going national debates concerning the impact of rapidly
advancing AI technology, "Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best Leaders from the Rest" is
exceptionally well written, organized and presented, making it an ideal and unreservedly recommended addition to
personal, professional, community, corporate, and college/university library Business Leadership/Management collections
and supplemental MBA curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Be the Unicorn" is also
readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) and that an accompanying "Be the Unicorn" work book has also
be newly released.
Editorial Note: William Vanderbloemen (www.vanderbloemen.com/william), founder and CEO of Vanderbloemen Search
Group, has become an unlikely business expert over his long and continuing career. Combining over fifteen years of
ministry experience as a Senior Pastor with the best practices of executive search, William created a brand-new industry:
executive search for faith-based organizations. Prior to founding his own search company, William studied under a mentor
with over twenty-five years of executive search at the highest level. He also has experience as a Manager in Human
Resources in a Fortune 200 company, working on integration of corporate culture and succession planning.
The General Fiction Shelf
When We Chased The Light
Emily Bleeker
Lake Union Publishing
c/o Amazon Publishing
9781662517075, $16.99, PB, 363pp
https://www.amazon.com/When-We-Chased-Light-Novel/dp/1662517076
Synopsis: Christie's auction house, Beverly Hills. The effects of Hollywood icon Vivian Snow are up for bid. In the
collection is a set of hand-drawn postcards spanning six decades. The sender is Antonio Trombello, a soldier, POW, priest,
and Vivian's confidant. Each postcard sheds new light on a deeply private woman the public only thinks it knows.
It's World War II. Vivian is a USO showgirl traveling the world when her husband goes AWOL, disappears, and is
presumed dead. Facing increasing suspicion, she leans on her dear friend Father Trombello for support. He's her confessor,
her savior, the elusive love of her life, and when it comes to her husband's death, the keeper of Vivian's secrets.
As Vivian rises from canteen dream girl to starlet to bona fide legend, she navigates the highs and lows of Hollywood, new
romances, and tumultuous family relationships - all in the shadow of her past and the guilt, unmet longing, and buried
truths that could still upend the lives of everyone she loves.
Critique: Of special and particular interest to readers who enjoy a deftly crafted 20th Century historical novel set in the
context of World War II, "When We Chased the Light" by novelist Emily Bleeker is a thoroughly fun and memorable read
from start to finish. While unhesitatingly recommended as a popular addition to community/public library collections, it
should be noted for personal reading lists that this paperback edition of "When We Chased the Light" from Lake Union
Publishing is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $4.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Emily Bleeker (www.emilybleeker.com) is the author of seven novels. Combined, her books have reached
over two million readers and counting.
Can't Shake the Dust
C. H. Hooks
Regal House Publishing
https://regalhousepublishing.com
9781646034994, $18.95, PB, 257pp
https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Shake-Dust-C-H-Hooks/dp/1646034996
Synopsis: "I Can't Shake The Dust" by novelist C. H. Hooks is the story of a young man by the name of 'Little' Bill Lemon,
III, who stands at the crossroads of a troubled legacy.
From his grandfather's notorious bar "Monkey Palace" bar, to the enigmatic history of his father, Wild, to his mother's
questionable dog-breeding business, Little takes to the dirt track every Saturday night, racing to outpace the looming
shadows of his family's past.
Behind the wheel of a ramshackle DIY car, in a place where scarcity reigns (be it money, jobs, food, or even soap to
cleanse the stubborn Georgia red dirt) Little teeters on the edge of self-destruction and redemption. As he navigates life on
the fringe of Southern backroads, the weight of his ancestry threatens to pull him under. While checkered flags may elude
him on the track, Little possesses the heart of a true champion.
Critique: From start to finish, readers will find themselves firmly rotting for Little as he careens through life in search
self-discovery at the risk of life and limb. An deftly crafted, exhilarating tale of 'resilience, tenacity, and the indomitable
spirit of those who dare to race against all odds', C. H. Hooks new novel, "Can't Shake the Dust", from Regal House
Publishing is an especially recommended pick for community library Contemporary General Fiction collections, and is
also readily available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.490.
Editorial Note: C.H. Hooks (https://www.chhooks.com) is also the author of the novel Alligator Zoo-Park Magic (2019).
His work has appeared in print and online publications including: The Los Angeles Review, American Short Fiction, Four
Way Review, The Tampa Review, and The Bitter Southerner. He has been a Tennessee Williams Scholar and Contributor
at Sewanee Writers' Conference, and attended DISQUIET: Dzanc Books International Literary Program in Lisbon. He can
be found on the waters around St. Augustine where he teaches at Flagler College.
Nothing Is Wrong
Mark R. Thornton
Arcade Publishing
www.arcadepub.com
c/o Skyhorse Publishing, Inc.
www.skyhorsepublishing.com
9781648210181, $26.99, HC, 192pp
https://www.amazon.com/Nothing-Wrong-Mark-R-Thornton/dp/164821018X
Synopsis: Set in Tanzania, "Nothing Is Wrong" is a novel by Mark R. Thornton that follows the lives of three people living
on the fringes of society: a wayward vagrant, a curious Tanzanian girl, and Sal, a young American woman suffering from
post-traumatic stress disorder from the war in Afghanistan. As their lives come together, their unlikely relationships grow
until an act of violence triggers events that upturn their lives and send Sal on the run into the harsh wilderness of the
Tanzanian interior. Despite the violence and pain they all face, the three are somehow able to find in each other
compassion, light, and perhaps a second chance at a better life.
Although a work of fiction, "Nothing Is Wrong" accurately demonstrates the challenges faced by women veterans suffering
from their time in combat, an issue widely overlooked. Its characters are diverse, both in background and experience, and
they forge compelling relationships that cross cultural and economic barriers.
Critique: With the publication of "Nothing Is Wrong" novelist Mark R. Thornton that takes his readers on a journey into
contemporary Tanzanian life in an honest and unsentimental way, from the bustling towns to its vast, dangerous
wilderness. Original, deftly crafted, and an inherently fascinating read from start to finish, as an author, Thornton has
raised his story to an impressive level of literary elegance -- making it an especially and unreservedly recommended pick
for community library collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Nothing Is Wrong" is also readily
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $17.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Mark R. Thornton, American-born, has spent twenty years as a wilderness guide in Tanzania, where he is
active in conservation efforts. He is also the author of Kid Moses, a hypnotically written book providing insight into the
issues that affect modern Africa and hailed by Booklist as having "stark, beautiful prose".
Over the Edge
Irene Hannon
Fleming H. Revell Company
c/o Baker Publishing Group
www.revellbooks.com
9780800746391, $29.99, HC, 368pp
https://www.amazon.com/Over-Edge-Psychological-Suspense-Detective/dp/0800746392
Synopsis: Trauma survivor Lindsey Barnes hasn't fully recovered from the ordeal that almost took her life, and now she's
in the middle of another crisis. Not only is she the sole witness in a high-profile murder case, but someone is also pushing
her to question her sanity.
Police detective Jack Tucker doesn't know what to make of her story, especially when her elusive enemy leaves no
evidence behind to lend credence to her claims. Yet the more he gets to know the appealing personal chef, the more he's
convinced someone is targeting not only her sanity, but her life.
And unless they can figure out who is behind the campaign to undermine her credibility, a murderer could slip away --
leaving more than one body in his or her wake.
Critique: An impressively original, carefully crafted and fascinating read from first page to last, "Over The Edge" by author
Irene Hannon will hold a special appeal for readers with an interest in compelling novels that blend suspense, mystery and
romance with a Christian perspective and sensibility. While highly recommended, especially for community/public library
Contemporary General Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Over
The Edge" from the Fleming H. Revell Company is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780800741891, $18.99)
and in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Irene Hannon (www.IreneHannon.com) is the author of more than 65 contemporary romance and romantic
suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from
Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement
Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work.
One Last Stand
Susan May Warren
Fleming H. Revell Company
c/o Baker Publishing Group
www.revellbooks.com
9780800745509, $16.99, PB, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/One-Last-Stand-Romantic-Adventure/dp/0800745507
Synopsis: As a member of the Air One Rescue team, pilot London Brooks has built a new life -- one far away from her
clandestine past as an operative tasked to take down a branch of Russian terrorists. She has no desire to reenter that world
or endure the grief of losing everyone she loved, including her fiance. But the past won't stay past. When she finds herself
falsely accused, her reputation tarnished, and her life in danger, she has no choice but to plunge back into the treacherous
world she left behind. Even if she must surrender everything(and everyone) she loves in her new life.
Shep Watson will never forget the day he saved London Brooks from the avalanche that nearly killed her. He knows there
is more to her story, but he's intent on keeping her secrets. Just when it seems she's finally ready to let him into her heart,
her past comes knocking. But he can't bear to lose her again, which means, somehow, he'll have to enter her world, keep up
with her, and figure out a way to bring her home. But when the danger comes home to Alaska, what will it cost the Air
One Rescue team?
Critique: An original and carefully crafted novel of suspense and romance, "One Last Stand" by author Susan May Warren
takes the reader on a fascinating journey through the Alaskan wilderness and beyond in a story 'where love defies danger
and second chances are won with courage and determination'. A fun read from start to finish by a master storyteller, "One
Last Stand" is especially and unreservedly recommended for community library Contemporary General Fiction collections.
It should be noted for the personal reading lists of Susan May Warren fans that "One Last Stand" is also readily available
in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Susan May Warren (www.SusanMayWarren.com) is the author of nearly 100 novels, including the Global
Search and Rescue and Montana Rescue series. She is the winner of a RITA Award and multiple Christy and Carol
Awards, as well as the HOLT Medallion and numerous Readers' Choice Awards.
Tea with Elephants
Robin Jones
Fleming H. Revell Company
c/o Baker Publishing Group
www.revellbooks.com
9780800744823, $17.99, PB, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Tea-Elephants-Contemporary-Friendship-International/dp/0800744829
Synopsis: Ever since they met as teenagers volunteering at a conference center in Costa Rica 20 years ago, Fern Espinoza
and Lily Graden have shared a close friendship, even though they live in different states. They can hardly believe it when
their teen dream of traveling to Africa together becomes a reality. It's the trip of a lifetime -- but life sure isn't what they
thought it would be back when they were young.
Along with their suitcases, each woman brings along emotional baggage that weighs heavily on them. Yet the people they
meet and the places they experience have the power to change their hearts -- but only if they surrender to the lessons God
wants to teach them in this unexpected land of emerald tea fields, graceful giraffes, and rambunctious elephants.
Critique: A fun (and insightful) read from start to finish, "Tea with Elephants" by author Robin Jones Gunn is an original
and deftly crafted 'safari of the heart' and moving forward in faith -- especially when the future is unpredictable.
Exceptionally well written and a pleasure to read, "Teach with Elephants" from Revell is a highly recommended pick for
community library Contemporary Women's Fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists that "Tea with
Elephants" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Robin Jones Gunn (www.RobinGunn.com) is the author of more than 100 books, including the
Sisterchicks series, and the Christy Miller series for teen girls. She also co-hosts the Women Worth Knowing podcast.
Lookin' for Love
Susen Edwards
https://susenedwardsauthor.com
She Writes Press
www.shewritespress.com
c/o Simon & Schuster (dist.)
https://www.simonandschuster.com
9781647427900, $17.99, PB, 408pp
https://www.amazon.com/Lookin-Love-Novel-Susen-Edwards/dp/1647427908
Synopsis: Inspired by a gripping true story, novelist Susen Edwards' "Lookin' for Love" begins in 1963, when Ava,
nineteen and pregnant, marries a violent alcoholic and is disowned by her abusive mother. She bears two sons, leaves her
husband, and turns to go-go dancing to provide for her children, using alcohol and drugs to numb herself to the degrading
work.
Then she meets Mike, a charismatic drug dealer who promises to give her "a beautiful life". They move to Florida and
begin working for The Crew, one of the largest drug smuggling organizations in the country. The Crew sends Ava and
Mike to Kenya to find farmers to grow marijuana -- but while they're there, their home is raided, they're charged with
international drug smuggling, and Ava is sentenced to serve time in a Kenyan prison.
After her release, Ava struggles with sobriety but soon returns to dancing, alcohol, and drugs. Eventually, she hits bottom
and surrenders her will to God. Once sober, she learns the power of forgiveness, faith, and love.
Critique: A gritty, compelling, fascinating read from start to finish, "Lookin' for Love" by Susen Edwards is an original and
strongly commended pick for community/public library Contemporary General Fiction collections. An impressive blend of
mystery, suspense, and romance from a Christian perspective, "Lookin' for Love" is also available for personal reading lists
in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Susen Edwards (https://susenedwardsauthor.com) is the founder and former director of Somerset School of
Massage Therapy. During her tenure she was nominated by Merrill Lynch for Inc. Magazine's Entrepreneur of the Year
Award. After the successful sale of the business, she became an administrator at her local community college. Susen is
currently secretary for the board of trustees for her town library and a full-time writer. She is the author What a Trip -- as
well as Doctor Whisper and Nurse Willow, a children's fantasy. Her articles have appeared on Residence11.com,
BooksByWomen.org, and DIYMFA.com
The Historical Fiction Shelf
The Colony Club
Shelley Noble
William Morrow & Company
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780063252486, $19.99, PB, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/Colony-Club-Novel-Shelley-Noble/dp/0063252481
Synopsis: When young Gilded Age society matron Daisy Harriman is refused a room at the Waldorf because they don't
cater to unaccompanied females, she takes matters into her own hands. She establishes the Colony Club, the first women's
club in Manhattan, where visiting women can stay overnight and dine with their friends; where they can discuss new ideas,
take on social issues, and make their voices heard. She hires the most sought-after architect in New York, Stanford White,
to design the clubhouse.
As "the best dressed actress on the Rialto" Elsie de Wolfe has an eye for decor, but her career is stagnating. So when White
asks her to design the clubhouse interiors, she jumps at the chance and the opportunity to add a woman's touch. He
promises to send her an assistant, a young woman he's hired as a draftsman.
Raised in the Lower East Side tenements, Nora Bromely is determined to become an architect in spite of hostility and
sabotage from her male colleagues. She is disappointed and angry when White "foists" her off on this new women's club
project.
But when White is murdered and the ensuing Trial of the Century discloses the architect's scandalous personal life, fearful
backers begin to withdraw their support. It's questionable whether the club will survive long enough to open.
Daisy, Elsie, and Nora have nothing in common but their determination to carry on. But to do so, they must overcome not
only society's mores but their own prejudices about women, wealth, and each other. Together they strive to transform
Daisy's dream of the Colony Club into a reality, a place that will nurture social justice and ensure the work of the women
who earned the nickname "Mink Brigade" far into the future.
Critique: A very real place that continues to exist today, The Colony Club was a women-only private social club in New
York City the was founded in 1903 by Florence Jaffray Harriman, wife of J. Borden Harriman, as the first social club
established in New York City by and for women, it was modeled on similar gentlemen's clubs. Today, men are admitted to
The Colony Club as guests.
An historical novel based on the ground-breaking establishment of the same name, "The Colony Club" by Shelley Nobel
fascinating, original, deftly crafted, engaging, memorable, and an a delightful pleasure from start to finish. A work of
historical and biographical fiction raised to an impressive level of literary elegance by its author, "The Colony Club" is
unreservedly recommended for community/public library fiction collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists
that "The Colony Club" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99) and as a complete and
unabridged audio book (Blackstone Publishing, 9798874800246, $49.99, CD).
Editorial Note: Shelley Noble (https://shelleynoble.com) is the author of numerous novels, including Beach Colors,
Stargazey Point, and Holidays at Crescent Cove. Writing as Shelley Freydont, she is also the author of the Celebration Bay
Mystery series and two other mystery series. Her mysteries have been translated into ten languages.
All We Thought We Knew
Michelle Shocklee
Tyndale House Publishers
www.tyndale.com
9781496484161, $$29.99, HC, 368pp
9781496484178, $11/00 PB, $10.99 Kindle
https://www.amazon.com/All-We-Thought-Knew/dp/1496484169
Synopsis: 1969. When Mattie Taylor's twin brother was killed in Vietnam, she lost her best friend and the only person who
really understood her. Now, the news that her mother is dying sends Mattie back home, despite blaming her father for
Mark's death. Mama's last wish is that Mattie would read some old letters stored in a trunk, from people Mattie doesn't
even know. Mama insists they hold the answers Mattie is looking for.
1942. Ava Delaney is picking up the pieces of her life following her husband's death at Pearl Harbor. Living with her
mother-in-law on a secluded farm in Tennessee is far different than the life Ava imagined when she married only a few
short months ago. Desperate to get out of the house, Ava seeks work at a nearby military base, where she soon discovers
the American government is housing Germans who they have classified as enemy aliens.
As Ava works to process legal documents for the military, she crosses paths with Gunther Schneider, a German who is
helping care for wounded soldiers. Ava questions why a man as gentle and kind as Gunther should be forced to live in the
internment camp, and as they become friends, her sense of the injustice grows... as do her feelings for him. Faced with the
possibility of losing Gunther, Ava must choose whether loving someone deemed the enemy is a risk worth taking, even if
it means being ostracized by all those around her.
In the midst of pain and loss two women must come face-to-face with their own assumptions about what they thought they
knew about themselves and others. What they discover will lead to a far greater appreciation of their own legacies and the
love of those dearest to them.
Critique: A very special novel by author Michelle Shocklee, "All We Thought We Knew" is Christian fiction at its very
best. This story of Southern, historical family drama (with dual timelines set during the Vietnam War and WWII) is about
enduring hope amid personal tragedy and includes discussion guide for book groups. While this hardcover edition from
Tyndale House Publishers is unreservedly recommended for community/public library Historical Fiction collections, it
should be noted for personal reading lists that "All We Thought We Knew" is also readily available in a paperback edition
($11.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note: Michelle Shocklee (www.MichelleShocklee.com) is the author of several historical novels, including
"Count The Nights By Start" (winner of the 2023 Christianity Today Book Award in Fiction), and "Under The Tulip Tree"
(a Christy Award and Selah Award finalist). As a woman of mixed heritage (her father's family is Hispanic and her
mother's roots go back to Germany) she has always celebrated diversity and feels it's important to see the world through the
eyes of one another. Learning from the past and changing the future is why she writes historical fiction.
The Lost Diary of Mary Magdalene
Johnny Teague
Histria Books
www.histriabooks.com
9781592114504, $29.99, HC, 250pp
https://www.amazon.com/Lost-Diary-Mary-Magdalene/dp/1592114504
Synopsis: Although a fictional novel, "The Da Vinci Code" launched many questions about the life and role Mary
Magdalene in the early Christian movement. Even more salacious accusations have been made concerning her relationship
with Jesus over the centuries. For example, the Mormon prophet Joseph Smith proclaimed that Mary Magdalene was
married to Jesus of Nazareth.
So what is the Truth about Mary Magdalene?
With his novel, "The Lost Diary of Mary Magdalene" author and pastor Johnny Teague has gathers the facts along with
what has been discovered recently in archaeological digs in Magdala and Capernaum. He reconstructs who this woman of
mystery was and what role she played in the life of Jesus of Nazareth her from her demon-possession, to the day she saw
Jesus rise from the dead, all the way to her and her husband's death at the hands of Nero.
Although another work of biblical fiction, "The Lost Diary of Mary Magdalene" can be seen as filling the historical gaps --
including reading the emotions as she would have written them. As the last page is read, the reader will tearfully appreciate
Jesus and Mary Magdalene in a way never before fathomed.
Critique: Original, fascinating, deftly crafted, and an entertaining read from start to finish, "The Lost Diary of Mary
Magdalene" by pastor Johnny Teague is one of those novels that will linger in the mind and memory long after the book
has been finished and set back upon the shelf. While especially and unreservedly recommended for personal and
community library Historical Fiction and Biblical Fiction collections, it should be noted that "The Lost Diary of Mary
Magdalene" is also available from Histria Press in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99).
Editorial Note: Dr. Johnny Teague is a historian and the Senior Pastor of Church at the Cross in West Houston. He has
been a pastor for over twenty-four years. He has written four books thus far - Living Your Way Out of the Mess, Preaching
Your Way Out of a Mess (Preaching Magazine's 2019 Book of the Year), The Lost Diary of Anne Frank (Association for
Jewish Studies Honor Roll of 2021 books, available in hardback, softcover, eBook, and Audible), and The Lost Diary of
George Washington, The Revolutionary War Years (Editor's Pick in The Manhattan).
(https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/20869827.Johnny_Teague)
The Woman with the Stone Knife
Dale Neal
Addison & Highsmith Publishers
c/o Histria Books
www.histriabooks.com
9781592114665, $19.99, PB, 250pp
https://www.amazon.com/Woman-Stone-Knife-Dale-Neal/dp/1592114660
Synopsis: "The Woman with the Stone Knife" by novelist Dale Neal imagines the life of a Cherokee woman exiled for 20
years in Georgian England, and is torn between two worlds and two choices. Remain in London to avenge her husband's
death or reunite with the son she left behind in the Cherokee mountains.
Helena Ostenaco Timberlake steps into history in 1786 when she petitions the British crown to return to newly
independent America. Was she really the wife of a white soldier, Lt. Henry Timberlake, who had visited the Cherokee in
1762 and the daughter of the Cherokee war chief Ostenaco who had visited King George III?
Widely researched and deeply imagined, "The Woman with the Stone Knife" follows the life of this mysterious woman.
She was born Skitty in the Overhills towns of the Cherokee. Following Timberlake, Skitty leaves behind her infant son and
makes the arduous Atlantic crossing, only to find herself abandoned in England after Timberlake's death in debtor's prison
in 1765.
Critique: Although a work of deftly crafted fiction, author Dale Neal's "The Woman with the Stone Knife" from Histria
Press is also the literary product of authentic historical detail research. The result is an inherently fascinating novel that is a
compelling and entertaining read from start to finish. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book
format (Kindle, $9.99), "The Woman with the Stone Knife" is an especially appropriate and highly recommended pick for
community/public library Historical Fiction collections.
Editorial Note: Dale Neal (www.dalenealbooks.com) is the author of Appalachian Book of the Dead, shortlisted for the
Thomas Wolfe Literary Award; Cow Across America, winner of the Novello Literary Award; The Half-Life of Home; and
Kings of Coweetsee, to be published in summer 2024 by Regal House. His short stories, reviews and essays have appeared
in Our State, Smoky Mountain Living, Still, North Carolina Literary Review, Appalachian Journal, Carolina Quarterly and
elsewhere. He worked for four decades as an award-winning journalist at the Asheville Citizen-Times. He earned an MFA
in creative writing at Warren Wilson College.
Empire Resurgent
Robert Bruton
Addison & Highsmith Publishers
c/o Histria Books
www.histriabooks.com
9781592114344, $19.99, PB, 500pp
https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Resurgent-Belisarius-Reconquest-Double-Edged/dp/1592114342
Synopsis: Flavius Belisarius is a man's man, a young and brilliant general who stands out amongst the other tyrannical and
conniving men in his class in the Roman empire. Unlike the others, he seeks the glory and restoration of Rome and needs
little for himself.
Or so he thought.
All at once, he is enamored by a startlingly beautiful and famously promiscuous woman, Antonina. Despite his
awkwardness around women, he wins her heart. But her heart does not stay in the same place for too long.
Belisarius is called upon to reconquer an ancient Roman colony. Fueled by the greatness of his mission, he completely
loses sight of his wife, until he finds her in the enemy's cellar tangled in the arms of another man. The scene is more
wretched, gorier than any he had seen on the battlefield. And it is one that he cannot shake.
Will the great man of Rome, Belisarius General of the East, buckle under a broken heart? Or will he have the courage to
stand, even wounded?
Critique: A fun read from cover to cover, and launching author Robert Brudton's new 'The Double-Edged Sword' series,
"Empire Resurgent: Belisarius and the Reconquest of the West" is a riveting read from first page to last. An
action/adventure historical novel that is raised to an impressive level of literary elegance, "Empire Resurgent" will hold a
special attraction for readers with an interest in original novels set in the age of the Roman Empire. A popular pick for
community library Historical Fiction collections, it should be noted for personal reading lists that "Empire Resurgent" is
also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Robert Bruton (www.authorrobertbruton.com) is an historical fiction novelist and former CIA officer who
served in parts of what was the former Roman Empire. He studied Greek and Roman history at the University of Saint
Thomas in Minnesota, philosophy and classical languages at the Catholic University of Louvain in Belgium, and Sacred
Scripture and theology at the Saint Paul School of Divinity. He also has a Master's degree in world history from Norwich
University, where he wrote a seminal thesis on the role that climate change played in the decline of the Roman
Empire.
The Romantic Fiction Shelf
The Cinnamon Bun Book Store
Laurie Gilmore
One More Chapter
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780008641580, $18.99, PB, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/Cinnamon-Bun-Book-Store-TikTok/dp/0008641587
Synopsis: When a secret message turns up hidden in a book in the Cinnamon Bun Bookstore, Hazel can't understand it. As
more secret codes appear between the pages, she decides to follow the trail of clues... she just need someone to help her
out.
Gorgeous and outgoing fisherman, Noah, is always up for an adventure. And a scavenger hunt sounds like a lot of fun.
Even better that the cute bookseller he's been crushing on for months is the one who wants his help!
Hazel didn't go looking for romance, but as the treasure hunt leads her and Noah around Dream Harbor, their undeniable
chemistry might be just as hot as the fresh-out-of-the-oven cinnamon buns the bookstore sells...
Critique: A compulsively fun read from start to finish, "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" by novelist Laurie Gilmore will
prove of immense interest to dedicated fans of romance comedy. The stuff of which Hallmark Channel movies are made,
and also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $2.99), "The Cinnamon Bun Book Store" from the One More
Chapter imprint of HarperCollins is especially and unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists and community
library Contemporary Romance collections.
Editorial Note: Laurie Gilmore writes small-town romance. Her Dream Harbor series is filled with quirky townsfolk, cozy
settings, and swoon-worthy romance. She loves finding books with the perfect balance of sweetness and spice and strives
for that in her own writing. Her books are listed at:
https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22097907.Laurie_Gilmore
Christmas Is All Around
Martha Waters
Atria Books
c/o Simon & Schuster
www.simonandschuster.com
Blackstone Publishing
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9781668069516, $17.99, PB, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Christmas-All-Around-Martha-Waters/dp/1668069512
Synopsis: Charlotte hates the holidays. As a former child actress, she starred in a modern classic of a holiday movie, and
its fans won't let her move on. When a piece revealing that her reluctance nixed plans for a reboot, she flees to London to
spend the five-week countdown to the holidays with her sister.
But the ghosts of Christmas past follow her there when she ends up at Eden Priory, a filming location for the movie she has
never visited. There, after being recognized by a fan while viewing the extraordinary holiday decorations, she's accidently
left behind, forcing her to accept a ride back to London from Graham, the son of the owners. Their family business (and
the funds to keep their historic house running) relies on holiday cheer, and Graham knows a visit from a holiday star would
bring in more visitors.
Now an illustrator, Charlotte accepts a commission illustrating iconic holiday movie scenes in London and its environs.
Graham offers to help escort her, as long as she'll commit to an art workshop at Eden Priory. But as Charlotte's chaotic
family holiday goes awry, she begins spending more time scouting locations with Graham. She may not love a Christmas
romance... but what if she has one of her own?
Critique: A contemporary Christmas holiday themed romantic comedy by a skilled storytelling master of the genre,
"Christmas Is All Around" by novelist Martha Waters is a fun read that will hold immense and memorable appeal to fans
of the stuff from which Hallmark Channel movies are made. A great holiday (or any day!) read from start to finish,
"Christmas Is All Around" will prove a welcome pick for personal reading lists and community/public library collections.
It should be noted that "Christmas Is All Around" is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $13.99) and as a
complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Publishing, 9781668121948, $39.53, CD, Amazon).
Editorial Note: Martha Waters (www.marthawaters.com) is the author of the Regency Vows series, with the first book, To
Have and to Hoax, receiving praise from Entertainment Weekly and the New York Journal of Books and three starred
reviews from major trade magazines, and it was a pick for best pick of the month by Amazon Editors, BuzzFeed, and
PopSugar. She is a graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill and works as a children's librarian in North
Carolina.
Haunt Your Heart Out
Amber Roberts
Alcove Press
www.alcovepress.com
c/o Crooked Lane Books
https://crookedlanebooks.com
9781639109487, $29.99, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Haunt-Your-Heart-Out-Novel/dp/163910948X
Synopsis: Homebody Lex McCall loves her sleepy Vermont town and quiet bookstore job. After her family, friends, and
exes all moved away to seek futures elsewhere, Lex set one rule: no dating tourists, newcomers, or anyone else who is
bound to leave her behind. When the bookshop owner, eager to off-load the supposedly haunted building, offers to sell the
store to Lex at an unbeatable price, Lex jumps at the chance to further put down roots.
Then handsome stranger James stops by the bookstore. Lex assumes he's just another tourist passing through, but it turns
out he's part of a ghost-hunting documentary crew that's looking into the many "verified" ghost stories in town. Lex can't
resist getting involved -- especially because these so-called ghosts are actually made-up stories from Haunted Happenings,
her hobby vlog from a decade prior. Worried her ghost-faking secret will get out and ruin her chance to buy the store, she
tampers with the ghosthunters' research and skews the results. After all, James's stay is only temporary, and her career
dreams come first.
But as they spend more time together, Lex realizes she's falling for James. Worse, there's more at stake than her simply
being found out and losing his affection: his mission isn't as frivolous as it seems, and her interference may cost him much
more than a spooky story.
This not-quite ghost story is sure to delight Gilmore Girls fans and anyone who loves flirty romances with a little extra
spirit.
Critique: An absolute fun read from cover to cover, "Haunt Your Heart Out" by novelist Amber Roberts is authentically
original, deftly crafted, and one of those kinds of stories that Hallmark Movie Channel romance movies are made. While a
strong and popular pick for community and public library Contemporary Romance Fiction collections, it should be noted
for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition of "Haunt Your Heart Out" is also readily available in a paperback
edition (9781804996102, $18.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Amber Roberts (https://amberrobertswrites.com) writes contemporary romance about unabashedly nerdy
characters in ridiculous situations.
Window Shopping
Tessa Bailey
Avon Books
c/o HarperCollins Publishers
www.harpercollins.com
9780063330054, $30.00, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Window-Shopping-Novel-Tessa-Bailey/dp/0063330059
Synopsis: Two weeks before Christmas and all through Manhattan, shop windows are decorated in red and green satin.
Stella is standing alone outside a famous department store, when a charming man asks her opinion on the decor.
It's a tragedy in tinsel, she says, unable to lie. Then he asks for a better idea, with a twinkle in his eye. She didn't know he
owned the place, when he put her on the spot, and now she's working for that man, trying to ignore that he's hot.
But as a down-on-her-luck girl with a difficult past, Stella knows how to make a good opportunity last. So she gives it her
all, working without stopping. Trying to resist temptation, because she's just window shopping.
Critique: A fun read for Rom-Com fans everywhere, "Window Shopping" by author Tessa Bailey is a classic Opposites
Attract story of love and romance with a charming twist -- a holiday romance set in Manhattan. Highly recommended for
community library Contemporary Romance Fiction collections (and the stuff from which Hallmark Channel romance
movies are made!), it should be noted for personal reading lists that this hardcover edition os "Window Shopping" from
Avon Books is also readily available in a paperback edition (9780063330085, $18.99) and in a digital book format
(Kindle, $10.99).
Editorial Note: Tessa Bailey (www.tessabailey.com) can solve all problems except for her own, so she focuses those
efforts on stubborn, fictional blue-collar men and loyal, lovable heroines. Tessa writes with spice, spirit, swoon and a
guaranteed happily ever after.
Can't Help Falling in Love
Sophie Sullivan
Griffin
c/o St. Martin's Press
https://us.macmillan.com/smp
9781250910608, $18.99, PB, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Cant-Help-Falling-Love-Novel/dp/1250910609
Synopsis: Lexi Danby is looking for some no-strings, fall fun. Once a college track star, she was forced to drop out when
her father passed away. Now she's trying to make ends meet while putting herself through school and caring for her
grieving mother.
When her comically bad waitressing lands her directly in the path of a handsome, charming stranger named Will, Lexi may
just have found the distraction she's been looking for. Their first date looks promising until a misunderstanding at a party
thrusts Lexi and Will into a fake engagement they can't talk themselves out of. And Will turns out to be a member of
Seattle royalty.
Will Grand is heir to a major company, and Seattle's most eligible bachelor. But he's been placed in charge of an important
merger with a company that values family above all else, and needs to show them that he's settled down. While a fake
engagement is advantageous from a business standpoint, it's not so great for a budding relationship with a woman who's
wary of commitment. With a woman who Will is beginning to care about much more than he could have anticipated.
As Lexi gets a taste of Will's glamorous world and the pair keeps up the pretense of their fake engagement for the press,
they decide to see where a more casual relationship takes them out of the spotlight. And amid apple picking in comfy
flannels, outdoor breweries in the crisp air, and fun Halloween preparations, Lexi starts to realize the scariest part of the
season might just be taking a chance on love.
Critique: The stuff of which movies are made on the Hallmark Channel, "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Sophie Sullivan is
a 'must' for all dedicated rom-com fans. A fun read from start to finish, "Can't Help Falling in Love" is a compelling and
unreservedly recommended pick for community/public library Contemporary Romance collections, and is also readily
available for personal reading lists in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Sophie Sullivan (www.sophiesullivanauthor.com) is a Canadian author as well as a cookie-eating, Diet
Pepsi-drinking, Disney enthusiast who loves reading and writing romance in almost equal measure. She writes around her
day job as a teacher and spends her spare time with her sweet family watching reruns of Friends. She has written Ten Rules
for Faking it and How to Love Your Neighbor, and has had plenty of practice writing happily ever after as her alter ego,
Jody Holford.
A Healing Touch
Suzanne Woods Fisher
Fleming H. Revell Company
c/o Baker Publishing Group
www.revellbooks.com
9780800745288, $17.99, PB, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Healing-Touch-Fiction-Community-Abandoned/dp/0800745280
Synopsis: Ruth "Dok" Stoltzfus is the kind of doctor who still believes in house calls, addressing not just her patients'
physical needs but their emotional ones too. When newly widowed Bee faces a breast cancer diagnosis, Dok connects her
with Fern Lapp for support. When her painfully shy assistant Annie finds herself drawn to a new calling, Dok goes to great
lengths to help her achieve her dream. And when an abandoned newborn mysteriously appears at her office one frosty
morning, Dok's world takes an unexpected turn as ripples of change touch several lives.
Critique: An original, truly engaging, and memorable Amish romance themed story of compassion, resilience, and the
bonds that form in surprising ways, "A Healing Touch" by Suzanne Woods Fisher will prove to be an immediate and
enduringly popular pick for personal reading lists and community library Romance Fiction collections. It should be noted
for the legions of Suzanne Woods Fisher fans that "A Healing Touch" is also readily available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $12.99).
Editorial Note: Suzanne Woods Fisher (www.SuzanneWoodsFisher.com) is the author of more than forty books, including
The Sweet Life, The Secret to Happiness, and Love on a Whim, as well as many beloved contemporary romance and
Amish romance series. She is also the author of several nonfiction books about the Amish, including Amish Peace and
Amish Proverbs.
The Mystery/Suspense Shelf
Rockin' Around the Chickadee
Donna Andrews
Minotaur Books
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
www.minotaurbooks.com
9781250894359, $27.00, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Rockin-Around-Chickadee-Langslow-Mysteries/dp/1250894352
Synopsis: Meg's sister-in-law, Delaney, is pregnant. Since her due date is on or around Christmas Day, this is putting a bit
of a damper on the usual holiday festivities. Meg and Michael are NOT hosting the usual house full of relatives and
parties. Instead, Meg, along with her mother, her grandmother, her cousin Rose Noire, and her good friend Caroline, are
militantly doing everything they can think of to keep Delaney quiet and healthy.
All the relatives are farmed out to friends and neighbors; all the parties are being held somewhere else; and while Delaney
is bored and mutinous, she's doing well, and they're managing to maintain a serene, peaceful environment for her... until a
body is found in Meg and Michael's yard.
The body turns out to be an attendee at Presumed Innocent, a nearby conference that Meg's grandmother has organized.
Some of the attendees want to learn how to exonerate a friend or family members who has been unjustly convicted, while
the rest are avid true crime aficionados. And since the dead guy has been very vocal about his belief that most actual and
would-be exonerees are guilty, guilty GUILTY!, nearly everyone at the conference dislikes him.
But would any of them hate him enough to kill him? And can Meg still keep Delaney calm in the middle of a murder
investigation, all while trying to catch the killer?
Critique: Original, riveting, and a fun read for cozy mystery fans from cover to cover, "Rockin' Around the Chickadee" by
novelist Donna Andrews shows her to be a master of the genre. Unreservedly recommended for community/public library
Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery buffs that this
hardcover edition of "Rockin' Around the Chickadee" from Minotaur Books is also readily available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $13.99).
Editorial Note: Donna Andrews (www.donnaandrews.com) has won the Agatha, Anthony, and Barry Awards, an RT Book
Reviews Award for best first novel, and four Lefty and two Toby Bromberg Awards for funniest mystery. She is a member
of the Mystery Writers of America, Sisters in Crime, and Novelists, Inc. Andrews lives in Reston, Virginia. She has written
over 30 books in the Meg Langslow mystery series.
Two Good Men
Suzanne E. Redfearn
Blackstone Publishing
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9798212263146, $27.99, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Two-Good-Men-S-Redfearn/dp/B0CX6NKMMK
Synopsis: Dick Raynes feared this day would come. Otis Parsons, a violent felon, has been released from prison, and
Dick's sister, Dee, is the one who helped put him there. Dick's marriage is over, and his career is in shambles, so with
nothing to lose, he sets out to do whatever it takes to keep Dee and her son safe.
But Otis is just the beginning. Using his knowledge as a scientist to develop a formula able to predict those offenders most
likely to strike again, Dick sets out to protect future victims the law is powerless to defend.
FBI agent Steve Patterson investigates crimes against those who have paid their dues for past mistakes, running a
department he created after his son was killed by a vigilante mother who targeted the wrong person. Recognizing a
disturbing pattern of untimely deaths in recently released felons, he sets out to discover who's behind it. What he doesn't
expect is to find another chance at love -- with the sister of the man he is chasing.
Critique: Authentically original and an ideal example of deftly crafted storytelling, "Two Good Men" by novelist Suzanne
Redfearn is a genuinely compelling, compulsive page turner of a read from start to finish. While also available for the
personal reading lists of suspense thriller fans in a paperback edition (9798212638333, $16.99) and in a digital book
format (Kindle, $9.99), this hardcover edition of "Two Good Men" from Blackstone Publishing is unreservedly
recommended for community/public library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Suzanne E. Redfearn (https://www.suzanneredfearnauthor.com) is the author of seven novels. Her books
have been published in twenty-four countries and been recognized by RT Reviews, Target Recommends, Goodreads,
Publisher's Marketplace, and Kirkus Reviews. Her #1 Amazon bestseller, In an Instant, was awarded the Best New Fiction
Award from Best Book Awards and was a Goodreads Choice Awards Finalist.
Death at a Scottish Christmas
Lucy Connelly
Crooked Lane Books
www.crookedlanebooks.com
Dreamscape Media
https://www.dreamscapepublishing.com
9781639109302, $29.99, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Death-Scottish-Christmas-Isle-Mystery/dp/1639109307
Synopsis: Sea Isle, Scotland, is magical during the holiday season, and Dr. Emilia McRoy can't wait to enjoy everything
her village has to offer. But when the lead singer of a famous band is murdered in the village, just as they were about to
launch a world tour, her holiday instantly comes to a halt.
As the band's future hangs in the balance, Emilia discovers that the victim was working on new music that has since
disappeared. Were these new lyrics worth killing for? And if so, who is the culprit? It seems more than one person wanted
this music star dead. Shockingly, beloved constable Ewan Campbell becomes the prime suspect in the investigation,
putting a damper on the town's festivities.
With an ever-growing list of suspects, Emilia will need all the help she can get to figure out who is framing poor Ewan.
Between a secret Santa that wants her dead, stalkers, and killer holiday celebrations, Emilia must see the devil in the
details and discover the truth before it's too late.
Critique: A perfectly crafted cozy mystery, "Death at a Scottish Christmas" by novelist Lucy Connelly is a fun read for
dedicated mystery buffs from first page to last. Highly recommended for community/library Contemporary
Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted that this hardcover edition of "Death at a Scottish Christmas" from
Crooked Lane Books is also readily available for the personal reading lists of 'whodunnit' mystery fans in a digital book
format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Dreamscape Media, 9798228249011, $39.95,
CD).
Editorial Note: Lucy Connelly (www.lucyconnelly.com) travels around the world -- usually with her bossy dog in tow. Her
favorite pastime is sipping tea in a quaint cafe as she turns each passerby into a murder victim, witness, or suspect. If she
stares at you strangely, don't worry. She only murdered you in her book!
The Secret of Blackbird Cabin
D. L. Tank
Planert Creek Press
http://planertcreekpress.com
9798986730530, $6.99, PB, 210pp
https://www.amazon.com/Secret-Blackbird-Cabin-D-Tank/dp/B0D8D417CF
Synopsis: When Tony and Megan, a recently retired couple, buy a long-vacant cabin on a small lake hidden in Wisconsin's
Northwoods for a ridiculously low price, they get more than they bargained for.
While renovating the cabin and property, they discover an unidentified skeleton. A myriad of connected clues involving
bank robbers, bootleggers and crooked cops point to the skeleton's identity.
Tony and Megan reluctantly recognize that if the mystery is to be solved, it's up to them to discover what really happened
at Blackbird Cabin.
Critique: A treasure of a cozy mystery with a Wisconsin Northwoods feel, "The Secret of Blackbird Cabin" by Wisconsin
author D. L. Tank is a fun read from start to finish. thanks to a distinctive and engaging storytelling style, this novel will
prove to be of special interest and appeal to fans of the amateur sleuth having to solve a 'whodunnit' murder mystery.
While especially and unreservedly recommended for community/public library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be
noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery buffs that this paperback edition of "The Secret of Blackbird
Cabin" from Planert Creek Press is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99) as well.
Editorial Note: David L. Tank (http://davidtank.com) is a writer and photographer currently living in Menomonie,
Wisconsin, where he teaches writing and mass communication at the University of Wisconsin-Stout. Prior to becoming a
full-time teacher, he was a newspaper and magazine editor, worked as senior writer for a major fraternal organization and
directed the communication efforts of several not-for-profit organizations.
An Insignificant Case
Philip Margolin
Minotaur Books
c/o St. Martin's Publishing Group
www.minotaurbooks.com
9781250885821, $29.00, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Insignificant-Case-Thriller-Phillip-Margolin/dp/1250885825
Synopsis: Charlie Webb is a third rate lawyer who graduated from a third rate law-school and, because he couldn't get
hired by any of the major law firms, has opened his own law firm, where he gets by through handling cases for dubious
associates from his youth and some court appointed cases.
Described as "a leaky boat floating down the stream of life," Charlie has led an unremarkable life, personally and
professionally. Until he's appointed to be the attorney for a decidedly crackpot artist who calls himself Guido Sabatini
(born Lawrence Weiss). Sabatini has been arrested (again) for breaking into a restaurant and stealing back a painting he
sold them because he was insulted by where it was displayed. But as Lawrence Weiss, he's also an accomplished card
shark and burglar and while he was there, he stole a thumb drive from the owner's safe.
Not knowing what else Sabatani has stolen, Webb negotiates the return of the painting and "other items' for the owner
dropping charges against Sabatini. But the contents of the flash drive threatens very powerful figures who are determined
to retrieve it, the restaurant owner (Gretchen Hall) and her driver (Yuri Makarov) are being investigated for the sex
trafficking of minors, and there are others who have a violent grudge against Sabatini.
When a minor theft case becomes a double homicide, and even more, Charlie Webb, an insignificant lawyer assigned to an
insignificant case, is faced with the most important, and deadliest, case of his life.
Critique: As an author, Phillip Margolin is a master of the suspense/thriller genre and his newest novel, "An Insignificant
Case" is an original and fascinating read from start to finish. Replete with deftly crafted and memorable characters, plus
original and compelling storyline of unexpected plot twists, "An Insignificant Case" is an unreservedly recommended
choice for community/public library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal
reading lists of the growing legions of Phillip Margolin fans that "An Insignificant Case" is also readily available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Phillip Margolin (https://phillipmargolin.com) has written over twenty-five novels, most of them New
York Times bestsellers, including Gone But Not Forgotten, Lost Lake, and Violent Crimes. In addition to being a novelist,
he was a long time criminal defense attorney with decades of trial experience, including a large number of capital
cases.
I'll Be Home for Mischief
Jacqueline Frost
Crooked Lane Books
www.crookedlanebooks.com
Blackstone Publishing
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9781639109067, $30.99, HC, 288pp
https://www.amazon.com/Home-Mischief-Christmas-Tree-Mystery/dp/1639109064
Synopsis: It's Christmastime in Mistletoe, Maine, and the Historical Society has launched a widespread campaign to
celebrate the town's 150th anniversary. Descendants of the founding family, the Snows, have returned for the first time,
and Holly is determined to make the family's visit magical. In an attempt to put Mistletoe on the map, Holly's mother, a
respected local baker, attempts to break a record by baking the world's largest gingerbread man, but her plans are whisked
away when Mr. Snow's body ends up in the batter.
When Mr. Moore, the local mistletoe farmer, is accused of the crime, Holly reprises her role as amateur sleuth to protect
the sweet older man. Between hosting the inconsolable Mrs. Snow and other guests at the inn, receiving threatening
messages telling her to stop her investigation, and preparing for her first wedding anniversary with Sheriff Evan Gray, she
might need a Christmas miracle to survive.
When someone breaks into Holly's office and scratches a warning into her desk, she knows she has little time left. Can
Holly uncover the killer before someone else gets burned, or is her involvement a recipe for trouble?
Critique: Another perfectly crafted cozy mystery from a master of the genre, "I'll Be Home for Mischief" by novelist
Jacqueline Frost is an exceptional and fun read that is unhesitatingly recommended for community/public library
Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists of the growing legion of Jacqueline Frost
fans that this hardcover edition of "I'll Be Home for Mischief" from Crooked Lane Books is also readily available in a
digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Publishing,
9798228312630, $45.95, CD).
Editorial Note: Jacqueline Frost is a mystery-loving pet enthusiast who hopes to make readers smile. Jacqueline is a
member of the International Thriller Writers (ITW) and Sisters in Crime.
(https://cozy-mystery.com/jacqueline-frost.html)
Dominoes, Danzon, and Death
Raquel V. Reyes
Crooked Lane Books
www.crookedlanebooks.com
Blackstone Publishing
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9781639109043, $31.99, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dominoes-Danz%C3%B3n-Caribbean-Kitchen-Mystery/dp/1639109048
Synopsis: It's been three years since food anthropologist and cooking show star Miriam Quinones-Smith had her last brush
with death. Her Spanglish culinary show, Abuela Approved, is topping the charts. Her parents are back in Miami and
living with her in Coral Shores. And her kids are great. But when bones start popping up in unexpected places, Miriam's
idyllic life is threatened.
Her husband Robert's much-delayed hotel project screeches to a halt when human bones are unearthed. Tribal
representatives, forensic archaeologists, and a pompous professor rain down on the possibly ancient site. Then a fake
skeleton with the name "Smith" etched into it is found floating in the bay with an ominous note. Is it a threat to Miriam's
husband or her inlaws? And when Miriam's boss Delvis is seen going off on a tour guide who marched through the
crew-only area on set and is later found dead, Delvis is declared the main suspect.
To protect her family and friends, Miriam must dig up the truth that has been hiding in plain sight.
Critique: Original, clever, and part of author Raquel V. Reyes' 'A Caribbean Kitchen Mystery' series, "Dominoes, Danzon,
and Death" is an exceptional and riveting read that will be especially appreciated by fans of the cozy mystery genre. While
also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone
Publishing, 9798228312661, $43.97, CD, Amazon), "A Caribbean Kitchen Mystery" is unreservedly recommended for
personal reading lists and community/public library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: Raquel V. Reyes (http://rvreyes.com) writes Latina protagonists. Her Cuban American heritage, Miami,
and Spanglish feature prominently in her work. Mango, Mambo, and Murder, the first in the Caribbean Kitchen mystery
series, won a Lefty for Best Humorous Mystery. It was nominated for an Agatha Award and optioned for film. Raquel's
short stories appear in various anthologies, including The Best American Mystery and Suspense 2022.
Murder in the Ranks
Kristi Jones
Crooked Lane Books
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781639109715, $31.99, HC, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Murder-Ranks-Novel-Kristi-Jones/dp/1639109714
Synopsis: Algiers, North Africa, 1943. After her abusive German husband left her for dead and took their daughter with
him behind enemy lines, Dottie Lincoln learned that it's better to be a trained soldier rather than a victim.
As a newly minted squad leader in the Women's Army Auxiliary Corps, she spends her days moving men and materials to
the front and her nights attending mandatory dances to boost the morale of the men. Despite the grueling nature of her job,
she has found a sanctuary amongst the women in the Army. When Ruth, a member of her squad, is murdered, she's
devastated and determined to get to the bottom of the murder.
Dottie's company is the first group of American women assigned to a combat theater, and with Ruth's death, the entire
operation is being questioned. Determined to do everything she can to help win the war, bring justice to her friend, and
hopefully reunite with her daughter, Dottie must rise to the occasion before the killer strikes again.
But when her past comes back to haunt her, Dottie must prove she's not a German spy and put a stop to a deadly
conspiracy that threatens the entire American war effort.
Critique: An original, deftly crafted, and fully entertaining novel that incorporates an inherently fascinating 'whodunnit'
cozy mystery against the backdrop of World War II, "Murder in the Ranks" by Kristi Jones will prove an enduringly
popular pick for community/public library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for the personal reading lists
of dedicated cozy mystery fans that this edition of "Murder in the Ranks" from Crooked Lane Books is also readily
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Kristi Jones (www.authorkristijones.com) grew up in the military and has lived in Germany, England,
Turkey, and many places throughout the US. She attended a German high school that left her with a lifelong love of
languages. She holds a degree in history and is a member of Sisters in Crime and the Writer's League of Texas. In her free
time, Kristi loves to paint, travel, explore historical sites, and comb through old bookstores and museums for obscure
nuggets of historical details to add to her stories.
Misery Hates Company
Elizabeth Hobbs
Crooked Lane Books
www.crookedlanebooks.com
9781639109739, $29.99, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Misery-Hates-Company-Elizabeth-Hobbs/dp/1639109730
Synopsis: Miss Marigold Manners may be steeped in the etiquette of her old-money Boston family, but she is also an
accomplished, modern woman and an avid student of archaeology who can handle any situation with poise. When the
death of her parents leaves her too destitute to pursue her academic career and she receives a letter from a distant relative
on Great Misery Island, Marigold decides she must do what any person of superior sense and greater-than-average
curiosity would: she mounts her trusty bicycle and heads up the craggy, fog-shrouded coast of New England for a date with
fate.
Marigold arrives at Hatchet Farm, a moldering, gothic pile of a house inhabited by relatives so mired in the sins of the past
that they have no future. She sets out to modernize the recluses with a brisk, ruthless efficiency, but her well-intentioned
plans to manage their lives lead to malice -- and murder. Marigold spies a body floating in the stormy waters surrounding
the island, and her suspicions immediately turn to her hostile, weapon-wielding relatives when one of the local girls turns
up missing. And she might not be the only one.
When another dead body is found in the garden of the estate, Marigold finds herself accused. She must enlist the help of an
eccentric, colorful cast of friends and found family to save herself -- and everything she holds dear. As secrets are
uncovered and lies exposed, the question of "who done it?" turns into "who didn't do it?" and Marigold must face a truth
that shatters her steely poise and shakes her very sense of self.
Critique: Another impressive addition to the 'Marigold Manners Mystery' series by novelist Elizabeth Hobbs, "Misery
Hates Company" is an masterful blending of gothic mystery and cozy mystery genres. Exceptional and original, "Misery
Hates Company" is a prized and recommended pick for community/public library Mystery/Suspense collections. It should
also be noted for the personal reading lists of all dedicated mystery fans that this edition of "Misery Hates Company" from
Crooked Lane Books is also available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99).
Editorial Note: Elizabeth Hobbs (www.elizabethhobbsauthor.com) graduated from Hollins College with a BA in classics
and art history and then earned her MA in nautical archaeology from Texas A&M University. While she loved the life of
an underwater archaeologist, she has found her true calling writing historical mysteries full of wit, wickedness, and
adventure.
Silent Are the Dead
D. M. Rowell
Crooked Lane Books
www.crookedlanebooks.com
Blackstone Publishing
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9781639104994, $31.99, HC, 320pp
https://www.amazon.com/Silent-are-Dead-D-Rowell/dp/1639104992
Synopsis: While back on tribal land, Mud Sawpole uncovers an illegal fracking operation underway that threatens the
Kiowas' ancestral homeland. But there's an even greater threat: a local businessman involved in artifact thefts is murdered,
and a respected tribe elder faces accusation of the crime. After being roped in by her cousin, Denny, they begin to
investigate the death while also pursuing evidence to permanently stop frackers from destroying Kiowa land, water, and
livelihoods.
When answers evade her, Mud heeds her grandfather's and great-aunt's words of wisdom and embraces Kiowa tribal
customs to find the answers that she seeks. But her ceremonial sweat leads to a vision with answers wrapped in more
questions.
Mud and Denny race against the clock to uncover the real killer and must face the knowledge that there may be a traitor
(and a murderer) in their midst. It's already too late for one victim -- and Mud may be next.
Critique: "Silent Are The Dead" is the riveting sequel to author D. M. Rowell's novel "Never Name The Dead" and is
another deftly crafted and riveting reads from start to finish. Holding a very special attraction for readers with an interest in
Native American themed fiction and 'whodunnit' murder mysteries, this edition of "Silent Are The Dead" will prove a
welcome and enduringly popular pick for personal reading lists and community/public library Mystery/Suspense
collections. It should be noted that "Silent Are The Dead" is also available from Crooked Lane Books in a digital book
format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Publishing, 9798228248762, $43.94,
MP3-CD)
Editorial Note: D. M. Rowell (www.dmrowell.com) is an enrolled member of the Kiowa Tribe in Oklahoma. Like her
protagonist, Mud, she comes from a long line of Kiowa storytellers within a Plains Indian culture that treasures oral
traditions. After a thirty-two-year career spinning stories for Silicon Valley start-ups and corporations, with a few escapes
creating award-winning independent documentaries, Rowell started a new chapter writing the Mud Sawpole Mysteries
featuring a Silicon Valley professional Kiowa woman solving thefts and murders in Kiowa country. The first in the series,
Never Name the Dead was a 2023 Finalist for the Simon & Schuster Mary Higgins Clark Award.
Beyond Reasonable Doubt
Robert Dugoni
https://www.robertdugonibooks.com
Thomas & Mercer
c/o Amazon Publishing
9781662517990, $28.99, HC, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Reasonable-Doubt-Keera-Duggan/dp/1662517998
Synopsis: When Jenna Bernstein, disgraced wunderkind CEO of a controversial biotech company, is accused of murdering
her former partner and lover, she turns to Seattle attorney Keera Duggan to defend her. Keera is more than a master chess
player who brings her intuitive moves into court -- she's Jenna's childhood friend. But considering their history, Keera
knows that where Jenna goes, trouble follows.
Five years earlier, Keera's father successfully defended Jenna when she was tried for the killing of her company's chief
scientist who threatened to go public with allegations of corporate fraud. Keera knows Jenna too well. When she was a kid,
Keera saw Jenna for what she was: a manipulative and frighteningly controlling sociopath. Now, with only circumstantial
evidence against Jenna, Keera is willing to bury any trepidation she might have to defend a woman she believes, this time,
to be innocent.
As the investigation gets underway and disturbing questions arise, Keera puts her trust in a client who swears that this time
she's telling nothing but the truth. If this is all just another devious game, Keera might be working to set a murderer
free.
Critique: With the publication of "Beyond Reasonable Doubt", author Robert Dugoni once again demonstrates his
complete mastery of the suspense/thriller murder mystery genre. Expertly crafted characters, impressively original story,
and a fun read for mystery fans from start to finish, this hardcover edition of "Beyond Reasonable Doubt" is a perfect fit
for community and public library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be noted for personal reading lists
that "Beyond Reasonable Doubt" is also readily available in a paperback edition (9781662500220, $16.99) and in a digital
book format (Kindle, $5.99).
Editorial Note: Robert Dugoni (www.robertdugonibooks.com) is the author of several series, including Tracy Crosswhite,
Charles Jenkins, David Sloane, and Keera Duggan. His stand-alone novels include Damage Control, The 7th Canon, The
World Played Chess, and The Extraordinary Life of Sam Hell, which was named Suspense Magazine's 2018 Book of the
Year and won Dugoni an AudioFile Earphones Award for his narration. Dugoni is also the recipient of the Nancy Pearl
Book Award for fiction and a multi-time winner for best novel set in the Pacific Northwest.
We Three Queens
Rhys Bowen
Berkley Books
c/o Penguin/Random House
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com
9780593641361, $28.99, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Three-Queens-Royal-Spyness-Mystery/dp/0593641361
Synopsis: It's late 1936, and King Edward is in turmoil, having fallen in love with the scandalously divorced and even
more scandalously American Wallis Simpson. He wants to marry her but knows that doing so will jeopardize his crown.
Edward confides in his dear friend Darcy, Georgie's husband, and the couple agree to hide Wallis in their home while
Edward figures out what to do.
But unbeknownst to Georgie and Darcy, Sir Hubert, the owner of the estate, has given a film crew permission to shoot a
motion picture about Henry the Eighth and Anne Boleyn on the grounds. Trying to keep Mrs. Simpson hidden while
raising a newborn baby seems like it couldn't be any more stressful for the Rannochs, until one of the stars of the film is
found murdered on set.
Georgie must solve the murder for king and country before scandal threatens to envelop them all.
Critique: A 'Royal Spyness Mystery' from the mind and imagination of accomplished author Rhys Bowen, "We Three
Queens" is a riveting 'whodunnit' of a read that is a 'must' for the legions of cozy mystery fans showcasing what amateur
female sleuths must accomplish in the face of tremendous odds in order to save a falsely accused friend -- or in this case,
scandalize a royal dynasty! While unreservedly recommended as a top pick for community library 20th Century Historical
Mystery/Suspense collections, "We Three Queens" is also readily available for personal reading lists of dedicated mystery
fans in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Rhys Bowen (https://rhysbowen.com) has been nominated for every major award there is in mystery
writing, including the Edgar, and has won many, including both the Agatha and Anthony awards. She is also the author
of the Molly Murphy Mysteries, set in turn-of-the-century New York, and the Constable Evans Mysteries, set in Wales, as
well as two international stand-alone novels.
Guilt and Ginataan
Mia P. Manansala
Berkley Books
c/o Penguin/Random House
https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com
9780593549186, $19.00, PB, 304pp
https://www.amazon.com/Guilt-Ginataan-Rosies-Kitchen-Mystery/dp/059354918X
Synopsis: The annual Shady Palms Corn Festival is one of the town's biggest moneymakers, drawing crowds from all over
the Midwest looking to partake in delicious treats, local crafts, and of course, the second largest corn maze in Illinois. Lila
Macapagal and her Brew-ha Cafe crew, Adeena Awan and Elena Torres, are all too happy to participate in the event and
even make a little wager on who can make it through the corn maze the fastest -- but their fun is suddenly cut short when a
dead body is found in the middle of the maze... and an unconscious Adeena lies next to it, clutching a bloody knife.
The body is discovered to be a local politician's wife, and all signs (murder weapon included) point to Adeena as the
culprit. But Lila knows her best friend couldn't have done this, so she and her crew put on their sleuthing caps yet again to
find the killer who framed Adeena and show them what happens when they mess with a Brew-ha...
Critique: With the publication of "Guilt and Ginataan", once again it is confirmed that as an author, Mia P. Manansala is a
true master of the cozy mystery genre. Part of her "A Tita Rosie's Kitchen Mystery" series, "Guilt and Ginataan" is a deftly
crafted and unfailingly fun read from first page to last. Clever, original, and unreservedly recommended for
community/public library Mystery/Suspense collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of cozy culinary
mystery fans that "Guilt and Ginataan" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $12.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Mia P. Manansala (www.miapmanansala.com) is an award-winning writer and book coach from Chicago
who loves books, baking, and badass women. She uses humor (and murder) to explore aspects of the Filipino diaspora,
queerness, and her millennial love for pop culture.
Bronco Buster
A. J. Devlin
NeWest Press
www.newestpress.com
9781774391020, $17.95, PB, 276pp
https://www.amazon.com/Bronco-Buster-Hammerhead-Mystery-Mysteries/dp/1774391023
Synopsis: After a lumberjack games competitor is found floating face down in a pool with an axe buried in the back of his
head, former pro wrestler-turned-P.I. "Hammerhead" Jed Ounstead is on the case.
Investigating the Colossal Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair with his ne'er-do-well cousin Declan, Jed finds that he will
need all of his skills to find out what happened to a man they'd just spent the previous night drinking with.
Along the way, these two city boys will need to reckon with the raucous world of the rodeo, dodging homicidal clowns,
betting on cowpie bingo, riding bucking broncos and more in their attempt to solve the case over the course of one crazy
day.
Critique: The fourth title in author A. J. Devlin's simply outstanding 'Hammerhead Jed Mystery' series, "Bronco Buster" is
a fun read from mystery lovers who like humor mixed with their mayhem. An original 'whodunnit' special, this paperback
edition (which is also available in a digital book format -- Kindle, $11.99) of "Bronco Buster" is especially and
unreservedly recommended for personal reading lists and community library Mystery/Suspense collections.
Editorial Note: A. J. Devlin (https://ajdevlin.com) earned a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Screenwriting from Chapman
University and a Master of Fine Arts in Screenwriting from The American Film Institute. Cobra Clutch, the first book in
the "Hammerhead" Jed professional wrestling mystery-comedy series, was released in spring 2018 and nominated for a
Lefty Award for Best Debut Mystery and won the 2019 Crime Writers of Canada Arthur Ellis Award for Best First Novel.
The highly acclaimed sequel, Rolling Thunder, was released in spring 2020. The third book in the series, Five Moves of
Doom, was published in September 2022 by NeWest Press and won the 2022 Crime Fiction Lover Editor's Choice Award
for Best Indie Crime Novel, was selected by The Globe and Mail as one of the Best Books of 2022, nominated for the 2023
Lefty Award for Best Humorous Mystery, and shortlisted for the 2023 Crime Writers of Canada Howard Engel Award of
Excellence for Best Novel Set in Canada.
The Bones of Bascom Hall
Betsy Draine & Michael Hinden
University of Wisconsin Press
www.uwpress.wisc.edu
9780299349745, $21.95, PB, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Bones-Bascom-Barnes-Sandler-Mystery/dp/0299349748
Synopsis: Campus police at the University of Wisconsin-Madison are baffled by the discovery of human remains in the
attic of the administration building. Drawn into the investigation, visiting professor Nora Barnes connects the bones to the
Vietnam-era bombing of Sterling Hall.
But someone doesn't want her probing the past. She's side-swiped by a car while riding a bicycle and almost crushed in the
art library's motorized book stacks. Meanwhile, her high-spirited husband, Toby Sandler, is hot on the trail of lost
architectural plans drafted by Frank Lloyd Wright.
Inspired by an event that traumatized Madison and shocked the nation, "The Bones of Bascom Hall" by co-authors Betsy
Draine and Michael Hinden deftly blends fact and fiction in an absorbing and original novel of mystery and suspense.
Critique: Part of co-authors' Betsy Draine and Michael Hinden's 'Nora Barnes and Toby Sandler Mystery' series, "The
Bones of Bascom Hall" with its distinctive University of Wisconsin - Madison setting is a fun read from start to finish and
unreservedly recommended for community library Mystery/Suspense collections and the personal reading lists of dedicated
mystery fans -- and UW Alumni!
Editorial Note: Betsy Draine and Michael Hinden are the co-authors of Murder in Lascaux, The Body in Bodega Bay,
Death on a Starry Night, and The Dead of Achill Island, the first four mystery novels featuring Nora Barnes and Toby
Sandler. They also co-authored the memoir A Castle in the Backyard: The Dream of a House in France and translated The
Walnut Cookbook by Jean-Luc Toussaint. They both are professors emeriti of English at the University of Wisconsin -
Madison.
Gathering Mist
Margaret Mizushima
Crooked Lane Books
www.crookedlanebooks.com
Blackstone Publishing
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9781639108947, $29.99, HC, 256pp
https://www.amazon.com/Gathering-Mist-Timber-Creek-Mystery/dp/1639108947
Synopsis: Deputy Mattie Wray, formerly Mattie Cobb, is summoned to Washington's Olympic peninsula for an urgent
search and rescue mission to find a celebrity's missing child. With only a week left before her wedding, Mattie is hesitant
to leave Timber Creek, but her K-9 partner Robo's tracking skills are needed.
Dense forest, chilling rain, and unfriendly locals hamper their efforts, and soon Mattie suspects something more sinister
than a lost child is at play. When one of the SAR dogs becomes ill, her fiance, Cole Walker, suspects poison. Fearing for
Mattie's and Robo's safety, Cole joins the search and rescue team as veterinary support.
Secrets that have lain hidden within the rugged terrain come to light, and when it is uncovered that the missing child was
kidnapped, the search becomes a full-blown crime scene investigation, forcing Mattie, Robo, and Cole into a desperate
search to find the missing child before it's too late.
Critique: A deftly crafted and original novel of mystery and suspense, "Gathering Mist" is the newest addition to author
Margaret Mizushima's outstanding 'Timber Creek K-9 Mystery' series. A fun read from start to finish for fans of cozy
animal mysteries combined with police procedurals and female mystery solving sleuths, "Gathering Mist" will prove a
welcome and appreciated pick for community/public library Contemporary Mystery/Suspense collections. It should be
noted for K-9 mystery buffs that this hardcover edition of "Gathering Mist" from Crooked Lane Books is also readily
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $14.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Publishing,
9798228249066, $45.95, MP3-CD).
Editorial Note: Margaret Mizushima (https://margaretmizushima.com) served as past president of the Rocky Mountain
Chapter of Mystery Writers of America and was elected 2019 Writer of the Year by Rocky Mountain Fiction Writers.
The Fantasy/SciFi Shelf
Silla's Awakening
J. M. Durham
Addison & Highsmith Publishers
c/o Histria Books
www.histriabooks.com
9781592114337, $19.99, PB, 300pp
https://www.amazon.com/Sillas-Awakening-Chronicles-Cursed-Goddess/dp/1592114334
Synopsis: "Silla's Awakening" by author J. M. Durham is a part of his 'Chronicles of A Cursed Goddess' series takes the
reader along on a hazardous journey through Arrdus with Silla, Omega, and company on a high adventure rife with
hardships, hope, despair, love, and magic.
Can Silla, a seemingly normal woman in her early twenties, take on her predestined role of Goddess, and survive? Can
Silla locate and protect the precious, powerful items of her predecessors?
Many opposing forces exist known as The Faithful, comprised of fervent followers of the seven gods and goddesses who
have for millennia crusaded against the Goddess reincarnations.
Though they are vast in number and influence, perhaps they pale in comparison to another of Silla's future foes: The Faulk,
who, far to the northeast in his walled-in nation, have been putting into motion plans of catastrophic evil that will test both
Silla and Omega in more ways than they yet know.
It's anyone's guess as to who will survive and who will perish.
Critique: Action/Adventure Fantasy at its very best, "Silla's Awakening" is a deftly crafted, impressively original, and fun
read from cover to cover. As a novelist, author J. M. Durham has a distinctive and entertaining storytelling style that holds
the reader's rapt, compulsive page turning attention from start to finish. While especially and unreservedly recommended
for community library Heroic Fantasy Fiction collections, it should be noted for the personal reading lists of dedicated dark
fantasy fans that "Silla's Awakening" is also readily available from Addison & Highsmith Publishers in a digital book
format (Kindle, $9.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Jason Binagia (who uses the pen name J.M. Durham) considers himself a modern-day hermit. If
circumstances allowed it, he would be content on most days to hang out at home and work on his book(s), watch tv, or play
games on his PC which he put together himself. He graduated from Ashford University in 2020 with a bachelor's degree in
business administration.
American Rapture
C. J. Leede
Tor Nightfire
c/o Tor/Forge Books
www.tor-forge.com
9781250857927, $27.99, HC, 384pp
https://www.amazon.com/American-Rapture-CJ-Leede/dp/1250857929
Synopsis: A virus is spreading across America, transforming the infected and making them feral with lust.
Sophie, a good Catholic girl, must traverse the hellscape that has become the American Midwest to try to find her family
while the world around her burns. Along the way she discovers there are far worse fates than dying a virgin...
The end times are coming.
Critique: A masterpiece of apocalyptic science fiction by novelist C. J. Leede, "American Rapture" is a deftly crafted and
compelling read from start to finish. Especially commended to the attention of dystopian science fiction fans, and also
available for personal reading lists in a paperback edition (9781250857941, $18.99) and in a digital book format (Kindle,
$14.99), this hardcover edition of "American Rapture" from Tor Nightfire is especially and unreservedly recommended for
community/public library Science Fiction & Fantasy collections.
Editorial Note: C. J. Leede is a horror writer, hiker, and Trekkie. She is also the author of Maeve Fly and American
Rapture. Her debut novel Maeve Fly won the Golden Poppy Octavia E. Butler Award and Splatterpunk Award, and earned
a Bram Stoker Award nomination.
The Graphic Novel Shelf
Audrey Hepburn
Michele Botton, author
Dorilys Giacchetto, illustrator
NBM Publishing
www.nbmpub.com
9781681123462, $24.99, HC, 176pp
https://www.amazon.com/Audrey-Hepburn-NBM-Comics-Biographies/dp/1681123460
Synopsis: Audrey Kathleen Hepburn (4 May 1929 - 20 January 1993) had a successful movie star career in Hollywood and
was recognized as a film and fashion icon. She was ranked by the American Film Institute as the third greatest female
screen legend from the Classical Hollywood cinema and was inducted into the International Best Dressed Hall of Fame
List.
Everyone has their own Audrey, for some she is always twenty years old, for others she is in black and white and for others
in color. Sometimes she is a European princess, a tipsy New Yorker or a UNICEF ambassador.
When Audrey Hepburn is mentioned, one thinks of her being beautiful and elegant, of her films, or of how her image is
used to recall something immortal and fashionable. But Audrey was also a little girl who saw the Second World War with
her own eyes, a woman who was at times fragile at work and in her private life, with a strong desire for motherhood and,
above all, a boundless love for children that would lead her to find her true vocation, far from dancing or acting: she will in
fact become a UNICEF ambassador to raise awareness in the world and help minors in difficulty.
"When I started acting I didn't have a method, I just pretended to be someone else, like little girls can do for fun!" - Audrey
Hepburn.
Critique: An absolute "must" for the legions of Audrey Hepburn fans, "Audrey Hepburn" by author Michele Botton and
artist/illustrator Dorilys Giacchetto is a unique and graphic novel style biography of Audrey Hepburn is exceptional,
informative, and a fun read from cover to cover. While also available for personal reading lists in a digital book format
(Kindle, $16.99), this extraordinary hardcover edition of "Audrey Hepburn" is especially and unreservedly recommended
as an enduringly popular pick for community and college/university library 20th Century Women's Biography
collections.
Editorial Note #1: Dorilys Giacchetto lives in the province of Venice and she graduated in Comics from the International
School of Comics of Padua in 2018. In 2021 she published Blind Date for Tora Edizioni and she illustrated the book Storie
di vittime innocenti di Mafia for BeccoGiallo. At the end of 2022 she published Idromele for the collective Cappuccino
ExPress. (https://www.facebook.com/dorilys.giacchetto)
Editorial Note #2: Michele Botton (www.michelebotton.com) was born in Piove di Sacco (PD). He studied screenwriting
for comics at the International School of Comics in Padua. For BeccoGiallo, he published the graphic novels Abe Sada, il
fiore osceno and Bukowski.
The Audiobook Shelf
Camera Shy
Julia Boggio, author
Susie Ridell, narrator
Isis Audio Books
c/o Ulverscroft Large Print (USA), Inc.
www.ulverscroftusa.com
2940192230350, $83.95, Audio Book, CD (6 Hours, 14 Minutes)
https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/camera-shy-julia-boggio/1146047327
Synopsis: Heartbroken after her almost-engagement was called off, Jess goes on a mini-break to Paris and meets a hot
French stranger called Gabriel. As sparks fly, Jess, fearing she was dumped because she was boring, vows to be more
spontaneous, and she and Gabriel have mind-blowing sex.
With his troubled past and soulful eyes, Jess quickly realizes there's more to Gabriel than a great shag and, when he whisks
her away to his fixer-upper chateau in the country, Jess thinks she might be falling for him. But is this what she wants? She
was all for taking risks, but risking her heart so soon was not in the cards, especially when Gabriel's troubled past arrives in
the present.
Can they both heal their emotional wounds and let love back into their lives before it's too late?
Critique: The narrative storytelling talents of Susie Ridell bring a true 'theatre of the mind' experience to this superbly
produced, complete and unabridged audio book edition from Isis Audio of author Julia Boggio's original and fully
entertaining romance novel. This 6 CD library audio book edition of "Camera Shy" is unreservedly recommended as an
enduringly popular pick, especially for community/public library audio book collections.
Editorial Note #1: Julia Boggio (https://juliaboggio.com/books)worked as an advertising copywriter until discovering her
love of photography on a 6-month trip around South America. She started a wedding photography business which received
some great PR when her own Dirty Dancing-themed wedding dance went viral on YouTube. In 2009 she opened a luxury
portrait studio and has photographed everyone from the Queen to Queen, the band. After 15 years as a photographer, she
returned to her first love: writing.
The Music CD Shelf
Portrait of Right Now
Jocelyn Gould
jocelyngould.com
Jocelyn Gould Music
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DK6DC6QW
Portrait of Right Now is the fourth album by JUNO Award-winning jazz guitarist and vocalist Jocelyn Gould, along with
Will Bonness on piano, Jared Beckstead-Craan on bass, and Curtis Nowosad on drums. All but two of the ten tracks are
Gould's original compositions. Portrait of Right Now will especially appeal to connoisseurs of vocal jazz; Gould's
beautiful voice is a captivating auditory experience that enkindles inspiration and delight. Highly recommended! The
tracks are Portrait of Right Now; You're No Fun At All; Bewitched, Bothered and Bewildered (Richard Rodgers/Lorenz
Hart); Jingles (Wes Montgomery); You're in There Somewhere; Can I Tell You a Secret?; Io's Orbit; I Haven't Managed
To Forget You; Early Bird; and Spring it Seems.
Reverence
Carn Davidson 9
taradavidson.ca/cd9
Privately Published
$TBA CD / $8.22 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DJDSY1JF
Reverence is the fourth studio album by The Carn Davidson 9, a collaborative group of JUNO award-winning artists,
trombonist Carn, and saxophonist Tara Davidson. Reverence features two original suites of music created especially for
the chamber jazz performance: William Carn's "Pan-American Suite", which celebrates Latin heritage and Brazilian music,
and Tara Davidson's "Saxophonist Suite", dedicated to superlative musical accomplishments of contemporary jazz
saxophonists Dick Oatts, Joshua Redman, Christine Jensen, and Kenny Garrett. Immersive, inspirational, and a treasure for
jazz connoisseurs, Reverence is highly recommended.
Object of Unknown Function
Brandon Seabrook
Pyroclastic Records
pyroclasticrecords.com
$18.00 CD / $12.00 digital
https://brandonseabrook.bandcamp.com/album/object-of-unknown-function
Object of Unknown Function is an extraordinary solo album that defies standard categorization. Music artist Brandon
Seabrook layers vintage banjos, electric and 12-string guitars, and cassette recordings into a hybrid fusion of wild, free, and
highly experimental original songs. Object of Unknown Function is creativity taken to a higher order of magnitude, and
highly recommended for its bold spirit of adventure! The tracks are Object of Unknown Function; Melodic Incidents for an
Irrational World; Unbalanced Love Portfolio; Perverted by Perseverance; Historical Importance of Eccentricity;
Phenomenal Doggerel; Gondola Freak; Gawk Fodder; Some Recanted Evening; and The Snow Falling, Failing.
Usual Suspects
No Codes
Sunset Hill Music
sunsethillmusic.net
$9.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DDRKG7M2
The second album of instrumental jazz collective No Codes, Usual Suspects is an exciting blend of modern jazz, free jazz,
world music, and punk. The original songs are exciting, creative, and spark the desire to explore beyond both physical and
mental confines. Usual Suspects is a choice pick for connoisseurs of genre-bending music, highly recommended! The
tracks are The Quest; Usual Suspects; Dog Days; Hyperstitions; Sokushinbutsu; Emit Time Item; Anon; Fiend Zone;
Contemplation; and Comuna 13.
Urban Chaos
Nick Adema
nickadema.com
ZenneZ Records
zennezrecords.com
$TBA CD / $11.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DGMGJRC3
Trombonist and composer Nick Adema presents Urban Chaos, an album of original jazz themed about the jumbled
challenges, turmoil, and surviving loss in modern city life. Performed by the quartet of Nick Adema on trombone, Joy
Shechter on piano, Azubike Onwuka on bass and Chen Har-Even on drums, Urban Chaos is ambitious and rowdy,
reflecting the competitive bustle of an urban environment, and highly recommended for connoisseurs of hard-hitting
modern music. The tracks are Beginnings, The Fool, 111, Y-Axis, The Friendly Ghost, Doglio, Oak, The End of a Love
Affair, 222, Fracture, Still Moving, and Demetra.
Ancestral Numbers II
Jason Robinson
jasonrobinson.com
Playscape Recordings
www.playscape-recordings.com
$14.95 CD / $8.00 digital
https://jasonrobinson.bandcamp.com/album/ancestral-numbers-ii
Saxophonist and composer Jason Robinson presents Ancestral Numbers II, the second of a two-album set. Like the
previously released Ancestral Numbers I, the original compositions of Ancestral Numbers II are inspired Robinson's own
family history and reflections on ancestry. Robinson combines his talents on tenor and soprano saxophones (and alto
flute!) with trombonist Michael Dessen, pianist Joshua White, bassist Drew Gress and drummer Ches Smith, in this
uplifting, expansive soundscape. The result is reverent, contemplative, and highly recommended. The tracks are Sweet
Tooth, The Return, Ruby, Enos, Deployment, Arrival, Grayscale, and Ancestral Numbers.
Sui Generis
Mark Masters Ensemble
Featuring Tim Hagans
Capri Records Ltd.
$16.99 CD / $8.99 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/Sui-Generis-Mark-Masters/dp/B0DCC2ZB8B
Sui Generis is a masterful jazz concerto of nine original compositions performed by an octet of talented music artists on
trumpet, saxophones, trombone, french horn, piano, bass, and drums. Each member has at least one solo in the entire
album, which draws the listener on a multilayered, soul-stirring audio voyage. Sui Generis is a treasure for connoisseurs of
orchestral jazz, highly recommended. The tracks are Doyle Hud's Two Step; The Stoic; Deep Pools; Velocity; Interlude;
Waxing and Waning; Pebbles; Meet Me at Sal & Angie's; and The Hammer.
Gotham
Wayne Alpern
https://www.waynealpern.com
Henri Elkan Music
$TBA CD / $9.49 MP3
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DCM2W91H
Gotham is an album of arranged standards and the creation of Wayne Alpern. The album back cover quotes Bruce Wayne,
the alter ego of the comic-book superhero Batman: "All people have limits. They learn what they are and not to exceed
them. I ignore mine." In the spirit of that inspiration, Gotham is Wayne Alpern's will to ignore his own limits in arranging
and producing the most immersive music possible. From a genuine Batman theme to a treasured Beatles song ("Norwegian
Wood") to a vitalized performance of Motown's "I'll Be There" and much more, Gotham brings old and new together in a
grand concert performed by an incredible list of talented musicians on reeds and winds, trumpet, trombone, bass, drums,
keyboards, guitar, and violin. Gotham is a choice pick not only for pop music connoisseurs, but also fans of Batman comic
book storytelling and the legendary superhero's will to strive for perfection and beyond! The tracks are Batman; Blue
Room; Desafinado; Norwegian Wood; Anyone Can Whistle; Spartacus Love Theme; Lady Madonna; Two Sleepy People;
Song for My Father; Have You Met Miss Jones; Little Darlin'; I'll Be There; and When I'm Sixty-Four.
A Little Taste
Rebecca Kilgore
http://www.rebeccakilgore.com
Cherry Pie Music
cherrypiemusic.com
$36.99 CD / $TBA digital
https://musicmillennium.com/UPC/806102128723
https://music.apple.com/us/album/a-little-taste-a-tribute-to-dave-frishberg/1767325491
Award-winning jazz vocalist Rebecca Kilgore presents A Little Taste, an album where she mellifluously performs nine
songs by Dave Frishberg (some with co-composers including Johnny Hodges, Johnny Mandel, and Alan Broadbent).
Supported by talented music artists on piano, string quartet, drums, trumpet, flugelhorn, flute, piccolo, and more, Rebecca
Kilgore draws the listener into a wondrous, emotionally charged, and unforgettable journey. Highly recommended! The
tracks are A Little Taste; Our Love Rolls On; Peel Me a Grape; Little Did I Dream; Heart's Desire; Snowbound; Brenda
Starr; Telephone Song; Ah, So Pure; You Are There; and Eastwood Lane.
Cali Mambo
Dred Scott, Moses Patrou, Tom Beckham, and Matt Pavolka
Ropeadope Records
$TBA CD / $8.91 MP3
Cali Mambo is an exciting Latin jazz album exploring and reworking classic favorites from 40's, 50's, and 60's. Pianist
Dred Scott recruited talented collaborators Tom Beckham on vibraphone, Matt Pavolka on bass, and Moses Patrou on
percussion to explore new improvisational stylings on long-cherished compositions. Cali Mambo is a "must" for Latin jazz
connoisseurs captivated by the history and evolution of the artform, highly recommended! The tracks are Cali Mambo, Star
Eyes, Poinciana, La Enganadora, Danza Cubana #2, Guachi Guaro, You and the Night and the Music, Lulu, Footprints,
and Manteca.
Transcend and Land
Dan Kennedy
www.dankennedy.us
Mt. Pollux Music
$14.99
https://www.dankennedy.us/store
Dan Kennedy presents his ninth album Transcend and Land, a new age solo piano album of Kennedy's original
compositions performed with rapturous grace. The songs draw inspiration from classical tradition, while reaching beyond
to encourage imagination and creativity. Beautiful, resonant, and inspirational, Transcend and Land is highly
recommended especially for solo piano connoisseurs. The tracks are Soaring, A Look Within, Kilmari, Simple Song,
Silver Maple, The Love In Your Heart, Praise, and Poeme. For audiophiles who enjoy more pop and electronic-oriented
new age music with programmed drums, bass and synths, Dan Kennedy has also released an original four-track EP Ascend
to Adonleigh ($9.99), a playfully vigorous experiment in techno excitement.
The Blu-ray Shelf
Meeting the Beatles in India
Paul Saltzman, director
David Lynch & Pattie Boyd, actors
Unobstructed View
B0D4RL4TH4, $24.98, Blu-Ray, (1 Hour 19 Minutes)
https://www.amazon.com/MEETING-BEATLES-INDIA-BLURAY-Blu-ray/dp/B0D4RL4TH4
Synopsis: It's 1968 and with the eyes of the world upon them, The Beatles traveled to Rishikesh, India, to study
transendental meditation with Maharishi Mahesh Yogi. Those few short weeks became one of the most prolific and
creative periods of their lives, as they wrote 48 songs in approximately 48 days.
"Meeting the Beatles in India" is serene documentary with which Canadian filmmaker, Paul Saltzmanm recounts a spiritual
journey for the ages, revealing how vital the exploration of our inner selves is for each and every one of us.
Narrated by Morgan Freeman, Saltzman weaves together archival material. including some stills and film footage never
before seen by the public; along with interviews with long-time practitioner of transcendental meditation, film director
David Lynch; Pattie Boyd; Jenny Boyd; pre-eminent Beatles historian Mark Lewisohn; Lewis Lapham; film composer
Laurence Rosenthal, maestro Hariprasad Chaurasia; and the real 'Bungalow Bill'.
Critique: An absolute 'must' for the legions of Beatles fans, this Blue-Ray edition of "Meeting the Beatles in India" is
especially and unreservedly recommended as an enduringly popular pick for personal, community, and college/university
library DVD/Blu-Ray collections.
Caligula: The Ultimate Cut
Tinto Brass, director
Malcolm McDowell, actor
Helen Mirren, actor
Unobstructed View
https://unobstructedview.com
B0D6TF2B4N, $26.98, Blu-ray
https://www.amazon.com/Caligula-Ultimate-Blu-ray-Tinto-Brass/dp/B0D6TF2B4N
Synopsis: Tormented by the murder of his family, the young, wary Caligula (Malcolm McDowell) eliminates his devious
adoptive grandfather Tiberius (Peter O'Toole) and seizes control of the declining Roman Empire as it descends into a spiral
of depravity, destruction and madness.
Restoring the complete performances of McDowell and O'Toole along with fellow film legends Helen Mirren and John
Gielgud, "Caligula: The Ultimate Cut" is the extensive reconstruction of the notorious 1980 spectacle, based on the
original narrative as conceived by writer Gore Vidal, and had it's world premiere at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival.
Showcasing the sumptuous costume designs of two-time Oscar winner Danilo Donati (Fellini's Cassanova; Romeo &
Juliet), Caligula: The Ultimate Cut" also features an entirely new score by Troy Sterling Nies as well as a new animated
title sequence by graphic artist Dave McKean (Arkham Asylum, The Sandman). Of special note is the inclusion of the
1980 theatrically released version of Caligula, which was infamously transformed in post-production by it's financier,
Penthouse magazine founder Bob Guccione.
Critique: This beautifully produced Blu-ray edition of "Caligula: The Ultimate Cut" especially and unreservedly
recommended for personal, community, and college/university library Cinematic History DVD & Blu-ray collections. It
should be noted that "Caligula: The Ultimate Cut" is also available in a DVD format (B0D6T6XFCJ, $18.92).
Editorial Note: Unobstructed View (https://unobstructedview.com) is a premier publisher of movies for personal and
library collections. In 1993 Jonathan Gross bought the contents of an old VHS distributor called Video Entertainment
Corp. and reconstituted it as Video Services Corp (VSC). This many years later, the company is the longest-running show
on the Canadian film distribution stage and to celebrate, the company was rechristened Unobstructed View in 2016.Today
Unobstructed View offers the most complete array of distribution services for independent film in Canada, thanks to its
decades in the home entertainment area going back to the old Air Farce Video Yearbooks of the mid-90s, which built the
company's reputation as a pioneer in the then burgeoning world of sell-through video.
The Parenting Shelf
Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention
Malina Malkani MS RDN CDN
BenBella Books
www.benbellabooks.com
9781637745359, $21.95, PB, 296pp
https://www.amazon.com/Safe-Simple-Food-Allergy-Prevention/dp/1637745354
Synopsis: How you feed your baby during infancy can lower the risk that they will develop food allergies as they grow.
Starting solids with simple, wholesome finger foods and offering baby-friendly versions of common allergens like peanuts
and eggs early and often helps encourage self-feeding, early motor skills, and lifelong adventurous eating.
"Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention: A Baby-Led Feeding Guide to Starting Solids and Introducing Top Allergens"
by pediatric dietitian and infant feeding expert Malina Malkani is an accessible, practical, DIY guide to starting solids will
empower you to safely introduce top allergens, navigate existing food allergies and intolerances, engage your baby in
family meals, and build a balanced baby meal from recipes the whole family will enjoy.
With easy-to-follow tips this comprehensive handbook includes:
A flexible 9-day road map for safely introducing top allergens
Practical advice for navigating food allergies, intolerances, and sensitivities
8 weeks of meal plans to help ensure your baby is exposed to top allergens frequently
80 nutritious recipes to make meal prep simple and satisfy the whole family
Guidance on balancing finger foods, purees, and breast milk and/or formula
Tips to encourage your baby's oral motor development, palate expansion, caregiver bonding, fine motor skill advancement,
and more
"Safe & Simple Food Allergy Prevention" will help you sail through the process of starting solids and introducing
allergens, streamline your approach to mealtimes, and feed your family with confidence and ease.
Critique: Comprising 80 'family friendly' recipes, "Safe and Simple Food Allergy Prevention: A Baby-Led Feeding Guide
to Starting Solids and Introducing Top Allergens" provides a complete and comprehensive course of DIY instructions for a
mother to start her infant on solids and building up a resistence to food allergies. "Safe and Simple Food Allergy
Prevention: A Baby-Led Feeding Guide to Starting Solids and Introducing Top Allergens" is an ideal and unreservedly
recommended pick for family, community, and college/university library Parenting Infants/Toddlers, the use of Gluten
Free diets, and Baby Food Cooking for new and experienced mothers alike.
Editorial Note: Malina Malkani (www.malinamalkani.com), is the pediatric registered dietitian, bestselling author,
sought-after speaker, and single mom of three behind the Instagram and TikTok handle @healthy.mom.healthy.kids. A top
nutrition influencer dedicated to educating her audience of over 140,000 followers about infant and childhood nutrition,
Malina is a trusted expert in local and national media outlets and owns a nutrition consulting company, blog, and private
practice helping caregivers feed their babies, families, and selves with confidence. Malina is also the author of Simple and
Safe Baby-Led Weaning and the creator of two online courses for parents: Safe & Simple Baby-Led Feeding and Solve
Picky Eating.
The Theatre/Cinema Shelf
Murder in the West End Volume II
Amnon Kabatchnik
BearManor Media
www.bearmanormedia.com
9798887714721, $50.00, HC, 552pp
https://www.amazon.com/Murder-West-End-hardback-Disciples/dp/B0D93BLWDN
Synopsis: During the first two decades of the twentieth century, only a few criminous plays premiered in London's West
End.
The Tragedy of Nan (1908), by John Masefield, is the story of Nan Hardwick, whose father was hung for stealing sheep
and she moves in with her uncle, William Pargetter, a farmer. Soon Nan finds herself under the yoke of Pargetter's
shrewish wife and gossipy daughter. The growing torment leads to deadly violence and a tragic climax.
A.E.W. Mason's The witness for the Defense (1911) takes place in colonial India. An English woman, Stella Ballantyne, is
tortured by her husband Stephen, and the curtain falls as Stella points a rifle at him.
In The case of Lady Camber (1915), by Horace Annesley Vachell, Alice Camber, a former music hall entertainer, is a
patient at a nursing home. When Alice is found fatally poisoned, the suspect is Esther Yorke, a good looking research
assistant who had in the past a liaison with Alice's husband.
George Playdell's The Ware Case (1915) is centered on a trial unfolding at the Old Bailey. Sir Hubert Wane, a resident of a
small English town, is accused of drowning his wealthy brother in the estate's pool. He is arrested and brought to trial, with
the audience serving as a jury.
In The Secret Woman (1920), by Eden Phillpotts, primitive emotions explode when Ann Redvers, a farmer's wife,
discovers that after twenty years of blissful marriage, her husband has fallen for another woman.
Bulldog Drummond (1921), by "Sapper" and Gerald du Maurier, begins with a patriotic Englishman, Hugh Drummond,
launching a series of adventures, wherein he clashes with arch-villain Carl Peterson in a battle Royal.
Then came Edgar Wallace, a prolific writer of thrillers. He was the first to make a specialty of detective drama. Among his
many plays, The Ringer, On the Spot, and The Case of the Frightened Lady are generally considered the best.
It is widely perceived that only the Bible and the plays of Shakespeare have sold more copies than Agatha Christie's
whodunits. Among Christie's fifteen stage thrillers, the notable ones are Ten Little Indians, The Mousetrap, and Witness
for the Prosecution.
Playwrights who followed Wallace and Christie with their plays of menace and crime include W. Somerset Maugham,
A.A. Milne, J. B. Priestley, Daphne du Maurier, Terrence Rattigan, Aldous Huxley, John Osborne, Graham Greene, and
Jeffrey Archer.
Amnon Kabatchnik, now retired, was a professor of theater at SUNY Binghamton, Stanford University, Ohio State
University, Florida State University, and Elmira College. He directed numerous dramas, comedies, thrillers, and musicals
in New York and across the United States. He is also the author of Sherlock Holmes on the Stage as well as the
seven-volume series Blood on the Stage.
Professor Kabatchnik's "Murder in the West End Volume II: The Plays of Agatha Christie and Her Disciples" informative
entries are presented chronologically and include a plot synopsis, production data, opinions by critics and scholars, as well
as biographical sketches of playwrights and key actors-directors.
Critique: A meticulous and detailed work of impeccable scholarship, "Murder in the West End Volume II: The Plays of
Agatha Christie and Her Disciples" is as informative as it is comprehensive. Exceptionally well organized and presented,
this monumental study is a critical success and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and
college/university library collections for readers with an interest in detective murder mystery themed plays and stage
dramas. An absolute 'must' for the legions of Agatha Christie fans, it should be noted that this hardcover edition of
"Murder in the West End Volume II: The Plays of Agatha Christie and Her Disciples" is also available for students,
academia, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject is also readily available from BearManor Press
in a paperback edition (9798887714714, $40.00).
Editorial Note: "Murder in the West End: The Plays of Agatha Christie and Her Disciples Volume 1" (May 13, 2024) is
also readily available in both hardcover (9798887714707, $49.00) and paperback (9798887714691, $38.00) editions from
BearManor Press.
The Art Shelf
How Banksy Saved Art History
Kelly Grovier
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9780500027059, $35.00, HC, 208pp
https://www.amazon.com/How-Banksy-Saved-Art-History/dp/0500027056
Synopsis: Banksy is a pseudonymous England-based street artist, political activist, and film director whose real name and
identity remain unconfirmed and the subject of speculation. Active since the 1990s, his satirical street art and subversive
epigrams combine dark humour with graffiti executed in a distinctive stenciling technique. His works of political and
social commentary have appeared on streets, walls, and bridges throughout the world. His work grew out of the Bristol
underground scene, which involved collaborations between artists and musicians. Banksy says that he was inspired by 3D,
a graffiti artist and founding member of the musical group Massive Attack. (Wikipedia)
Few would dispute that Banksy is the most famous urban artist in the world today. That he is also a perceptive art historian
might come as a surprise to many. Taken together, the myriad memorable works the street artist has created over the course
of the past thirty years, constitute an audacious commentary on the history of image-making -- a captivating critique
waiting to be pieced together.
Armed with little more than stencils, spray paint, and an anonymizing cloak of after-hours darkness, Banksy has forged an
alluring identity for himself as an incorrigible prankster who doesn't embrace tradition, but shreds it. Consider Banksy and
you think of grubby city walls far removed from elite galleries and privileged museums where art is conventionally shown.
What actually illuminates Banksy's audacious murals, impromptu urban sculptures, and vandalized paintings, however, is a
profound understanding of the story of art.
Through the dark satirical lens of Banksy's mischievous reimagined masterpieces, art history is viewed anew and brought
into unexpected focus. From his droll lampooning of the Lascaux cave paintings to reinventing Monet's enchanting water
lily pond, a reboot of Gericault's tragic, gut-wrenching vision to Vermeer's Girl with a Pearl Earring now instilled with
street cred, everyone's genius is grist for his unmerciful mill. Far from being diminished in their significance, however, the
works that Banksy ruthlessly parodies are ultimately refurbished by the ordeal. Banksy's iconoclastic works force us to
rethink our affection for and appreciation of great works of art that define cultural history.
Critique: An absolute 'must read' for the legions of Banksy fans and followers, this large format (7.5 x 1 x 9.8 inches, 1.85
pounds) and profusely illustrated hardcover edition of "How Banksy Saved Art History" by Kelly Grovier is an informed
and informative work of erudite and impressively meticulous research. "How Banksy Saved Art History" will prove an
enduringly prized addition to personal, professional, community, and college/university library Graffiti/Street Art & Artists
collections, as well as supplemental Modern Art History curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Kelly Grovier (www.kellygrovier.com) is a columnist and feature writer for BBC Culture and his writings
on art have appeared in the Times Literary Supplement, The Independent, Sunday Times, The Observer, RA Magazine,
and Wired. He is also the author of several books, including A New Way of Seeing: The History of Art in 57 Works, On
the Line: Conversations with Sean Scully, and The Art of Color: The History of Art in 39 Pigments. Additionally, he is a
co-founder of the scholarly journal European Romantic Review.
The Artist's Sketchbook: Inside the Creative Mind
Jenny Gaschke
Thames & Hudson, Inc.
www.thamesandhudsonusa.com
9790500480945, $50.00, HC, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Artists-Sketchbook-Inside-Creative-Museum/dp/050048094X
Synopsis: Artists have been using sketchbooks for centuries as integral tools in the creative process, especially during the
preparatory stages leading to the creation of great works of art. Serving as portable companions, they accompany artists on
their physical and mental journeys, offering intimate glimpses into their sources of inspiration. They are used to document
daily life, national events, the landscape, and natural world with immediacy. Many artists have used sketchbooks to create
meticulous botanical records, while others, such as the Pre-Raphaelites, planned their most important paintings within their
pages.
Selected from the Victoria and Albert Museum's extensive collection, the featured sketchbooks comprising "The Artist's
Sketchbook: Inside the Creative Mind" by museum curator Jenny Gaschke, range from historic to contemporary examples
including works by Leonardo da Vinci, Angelica Kauffman, George Romney, John Constable, Beatrix Potter, E. H.
Shepard, Paul Nash, Shahed Saleem, and Julie Verhoeven. Lesser-known artists, especially women, for whom sketchbooks
provided a creative outlet, are also highlighted. Drawn from Britain, Europe, and beyond, the wide-ranging selection of
sketches blurs the boundaries between art and journal.
"The Artist's Sketchbook" also explores the significance of sketching across different eras and movements. It offers
insights into changes in style and technique, exploring materials such as watercolor and pen and ink, and features exquisite
examples of drawings from life and the imagination, material experimentation, and planning for larger works.
Written by a group of expert curators and accompanied by detailed photography, this beautifully designed volume will
appeal to anyone interested in the art-making process, especially those for whom sketching is an important aspect of their
own artistic practice.
Critique: Compiled and edited by museum curator Jenny Gaschke, this large format (11 x 1.4 x 8 inches, 3.34 pounds)
hardcover edition of "The Artist's Sketchbook: Inside the Creative Mind" from Thames & Hudson is enhanced for the
reader's benefit with a ten page Introduction, 528 color illustrations and one page bibliography of Further Reading, one
page of Notes, a two page listing of Contributor Biographies, and a five page Index. Organized by artist, "The Artist
Sketchbook is an invaluable, informative, and inherently fascinating study that is an ideal and prized pick for personal,
professional, community, and college/university library Art Criticism & Artist History collections and supplemental
curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Jenny Gaschke is senior curator of paintings and drawings at the Victoria and Albert Museum, London. She
studied Art History, Archaeology and English Literature in Freiburg, Glasgow and Berlin. After completing her PhD on
British artists in early nineteenth-century Greece in 2003, she gained professional experience as assistant curator at the
Staatsgalerie Stuttgart. From 2005 until 2012 Jenny worked at the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich, first as
Curator of Prints and Drawings and then as Curator of Art. She worked as Curator of Art pre-1900 at Bristol Museum &
Art Gallery from 2012 until 2021.
(https://artuk.org/discover/profile/jenny-gaschke-senior-curator-paintings-and-drawings)
Painters and Their Paintings
Doug Monroe & Kim Hadley
McFarland & Company
https://mcfarlandbooks.com
9781476683249, $40.00, PB, 250pp
https://www.amazon.com/Painters-Their-Paintings-County-Carolina/dp/1476683247
Synopsis: Nestled in the northwestern corner of North Carolina, the mountainous Ashe County boasts the most picturesque
landscapes that painters and other artists could hope to find.
This spirit of natural artistry runs deep through the county's culture -- various towns offering murals, street art, galleries
and institutions like the Florence Thomas Art School. Even in West Jefferson, a town in which getting lost is impossible,
there is an "art district".
Truly an art destination, Ashe County is home to hundreds of painters inspired by the natural beauty of the Blue Ridge
Mountains and the New River valleys.
With the publication of "Painters and Their Paintings: Ashe County, North Carolina" by co-authors Doug Monroe and Kim
Hadly showcases the talented painters of Ashe, professionals and hobbyists alike, across generations and paint media.
Works from 103 artists are represented in 415 full color images.
Critique: This large format (8.5 x 0.52 x 11 inches, 2.14 pounds) paperback edition of "Painters and Their Paintings: Ashe
County, North Carolina" from McFarland & Company is beautifully and profusely illustrated throughout with full color
images and organized alphabetically by artist. Especially and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional,
community, art school, and college/university library American Art History/Criticism collections and supplemental
curriculum studies lists, it should be noted for students, academia, art historians, and non-specialist general readers with an
interest in the subject that "Painters and Their Paintings: Ashe County, North Carolina" is also available in a digital book
format (Kindle, $25.99) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Doug Munroe is a painter, former president of the Florence Thomas Art School and a retired
nurseryman living in the Clifton Community of Ashe County. He partners with his daughter and son-in-law in a
commercial maple syrup business and manages a couple of trout ponds.
Editorial Note #2: Kim Hadley is the author's close friend (and a McFarland employee) and a photography enthusiast who
handled the photography of the hundreds of paintings and managed relations with artists.
The Music Shelf
Dolly Parton's White Limozeen
Steacy Easton
Bloomsbury Academic
c/o Bloomsbury Press
www.bloomsbury.com
9781501390401, $14.95, PB, 160pp
https://www.amazon.com/Dolly-Partons-White-Limozeen-33/dp/1501390406
Synopsis: White Limozeen (1989) was a commercial recovery after Dolly Parton's first major failure two years previously
with the release of Rainbow.
"Dolly Parton's White Limozeen" by Steacy Easton is a case study in how an album is sold and a persona constructed. The
album had a complex relationship to the country music genre at a time when the genre was in the middle of major sonic
and cultural shifts, and it represents how country music saw itself.
This question of identity was especially relevant since White Limozeen was produced by Ricky Skaggs, the bluegrass
prodigy who was in the middle of his own genre-widening experiments.
The album reflects dense and complex production, shredding ideas of purity, studio craft, slickness, and authenticity. In it,
Dolly seems to be imagining the limits of her own personae - the country girl, the blonde burlesque, the pop legend, the
gospel singer.
To study this album is to investigate Dolly's calculated role in fashioning her image into the icon she is today.
Critique: Impressively 'insider' informative, as well as being exceptionally well written, organized and presented, "Dolly
Parton's White Limozeen" is a 'must for the legions of Doly Parton fans. While unreservedly recommended as a unique
addition to personal, professional, community, and college/university library American Music History collections and
supplemental Musicology curriculum studies lists, this paperback edition of Steacy Easton's "Dolly Parton's White
Limozeen" from Bloomsbury Academic is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $9.99) as well.
Editorial Note #1: Steacy Easton has been writing about country music, sexuality, gender, and politics for more than fifteen
years for academic and popular presses. They have written for the Atlantic, Spin, the National Post, NPR, among many
others. They are a contributing writer to Country Queer. (https://www.publicbooks.org/author/steacy-easton)
Editorial Note #2: 33+1 3 (Thirty-Three and a Third) is a series of books, each about a single music album. The series title
refers to the rotation speed of a vinyl LP, 33+1 3 RPM. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/33%E2%85%93)
The Travel Shelf
Home Base Hiking Europe
Cassandra Overby
Mountaineers Books
www.mountaineersbooks.org
9781680516159, $26.95, PB, 336pp
https://www.amazon.com/Home-Hiking-Europe-Explore-Foot/dp/1680516159
Synopsis: Author of the critically acclaimed "Explore Europe on Foot", Cassandra Overby now shares her hand-picked
destinations and itineraries for a "home-base" adventure -- stay in just one or two places while enjoying day trips on the
region's trails and other activities with the publication of "Home Base Hiking Europe: An Explore-on-Foot Guide to
Unforgettable Destinations"
"Home Base Hiking Europe" focuses on ten unique destinations, each tailor-made for its scenic locales, comfortable
lodgings, lively restaurants, interesting cultural and historic sights, and access to fabulous day hiking.
"Home Base Hiking Europe" also provides comprehensive information to help plan the perfect trip, including best time to
visit; what to pack; how to get there; tips for traveling with children; as well as recommendations for lodging, restaurants,
supplies, attractions, and more. Readers will find turn-by-turn directions and maps on four different trails in each region,
plus details on organizing transportation to trailheads, tips for hiring local guides, and how to get the most out of each
excursion.
Critique: Enhanced for the reader's benefit with the inclusion of color illustrations, detailed maps, a five page listing of
Online Resources, and a three page Index, "Home Base Hiking Europe: An Explore-on-Foot Guide to Unforgettable
Destinations" is the ideal itinerary planning resource and one that is comprehensively informative and thoroughly 'user
friendly' in organization and presentation. While this paperback edition of Home Base Hiking Europe" from Mountaineers
Books is unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university library European
Travel Guide collections, it should be noted that it is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $22.99) as
well.
Editorial Note: Cassandra Overby (www.explore-on-foot.com) is a freelance travel and outdoors writer who loves
combining her enthusiasm for foreign travel and hiking by encouraging people to explore the world on foot -- and helping
them do it!
The Sports Shelf
Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture
Jennifer Dunlop Fletcher, et al.
Tra Publishing
www.trapublishing.com
9781962098038, $24.95, HC, 168pp
https://www.amazon.com/Get-Game-Sports-Art-Culture/dp/1962098036
Synopsis: Sports serve as a major driver for artistic and technological innovation, community building, and debates about
social and cultural priorities and norms. Produced in conjunction with the eponymous wide-ranging exhibition opening at
the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art in fall 2024, "Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture" from Tra Publishing offers
an expansive view of the areas of contemporary culture where sports and art overlap to reveal beauty, power, emotion, and
what makes us human.
"Get in the Game" features a graphic-novel visual style brings together an array of voices and perspectives, featuring a
foreword by activist, advocate and two-time FIFA World Cup gold medalist Megan Rapinoe; nine artist/athlete dialogues;
a reprinted poem by Natalie Diaz; and the following essays: Jay Caspian Kang on youth sports, Frank A. Guridy on the
stadium and its role in American cities, Sara Hendren on goalball and the history of adaptive sports, Theresa Runstedtler
on race and mental health in sports, Bruce Schoenfeld on the data analysis revolution in baseball, and Seph Rodney on the
competitive drive.
"Get in the Game" also features text-paired illustrations as well as representations of iconic moments in sports history and
related activism by artist and surfer AJ Dungo.
Critique: A fun and informative read from first page to last, "Get in the Game: Sports, Art, Culture" will hold a very
special appeal for readers with an interest in sports -- in terms of its history and sociology. Effective and 'reader friendly' in
organization and presentation, "Get in the Game" is a unique and ideal pick for personal, community, and academic library
collections and supplemental Social Sciences/Sport Sociology curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note #1: The San Francisco Museum of Modern Art is one of the largest museums of modern and contemporary
art in the United States and a thriving cultural center for the Bay Area. The museum's collection spans seven gallery floors
and encompasses various forms of art, including painting, sculpture, photography, architecture, design, and media arts.
SFMoMA believes the art of our time is vital and that art and the creative process can open minds and help build a better
world.
Editorial Note #2: AJ Dungo is an American surfer and illustrator known for his 2019 graphic novel In Waves. He has
worked with great people at Nike, Nobrow, The New York Times, Esquire, Narratively, Vissla, Skechers, etc. His work
has been recognized by American Illustration, Society of Illustrators, and AD&D.
Editorial Note #3: Megan Rapinoe is an American professional soccer player. As a member of the US Women's national
soccer team, she helped win the 2015 and 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup tournaments and a gold medal at the 2012
London Olympics. A co-captain of the team since 2018, she was named the Best FIFA Women's Player in 2019, and was
awarded the Golden Boot. Rapinoe is an advocate for numerous LGBTQIA+ organizations, including the Gay, Lesbian &
Straight Education Network (GLSEN) and Athlete Ally. In 2013, she received the Board of Directors Award from the Los
Angeles Gay and Lesbian Center. Rapinoe was included in Time magazine's 100 Most Influential People of 2020. And in
July 2022, she received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Joe Biden.
Editorial Note #4: Jennifer Dunlop Fletcher is a Helen Hilton Raiser Curator of Architecture and Design at the San
Francisco Museum of Modern Art. She executed several curatorial projects and has published significant essays on the
practices of A. Quincy Jones, Ewan Gibbs, Tobias Wong, and Lebbeus Woods. Since 2010, she has been building
SFMOMA's Architecture and Design collection with an emphasis on experimental works of design since 1980. Recent
acquisitions include seminal works by Neri Oxman, Ant Farm, Neil Denari, Nathalie du Pasquier, Iwan Baan, Nacho
Carbonell and Mathieu Lehanneur.
Editorial Note #5: Seph Rodney is a frequent contributor to The New York Times and is featured on the podcast "The
American Age." His book, The Personalization of the Museum Visit, was published by Routledge in 2019. He is a former
senior critic and opinion editor for Hyperallergic, and has also written for CNN, NBC Universal, and American Craft
Magazine. He has recently been awarded the Rabkin Arts Journalism Prize (2020) and an Andy Warhol Foundation Arts
Writers Grant (2022).
Editorial Note #6: Katy Siegel is Research Director, Special Program Initiatives, at the San Francisco Museum of Modern
Art. Siegel's scholarly and curatorial interests are focused on the relationship between material art-making and social
history. Siegel serves on the advisory committee for the African American Archive Initiative at the Getty Research
Institute, is a contributing editor at Artforum, and a member of the editorial board at The Brooklyn Rail.
The Buddhist Studies Shelf
The Six Bardos of the Tibetan Book of the Dead
Ven. Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche and Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche
Inner Traditions International, Ltd.
www.innertraditions.com
9798888501290, $22.99, PB, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Six-Bardos-Tibetan-Book-Dead/dp/B0CSBSYTGL
Synopsis: According to the Buddha, all sentient beings are naturally enlightened and have been pure since the beginning.
However, in waking life, grasping and fear develop into ego-clinging and a cyclic state of delusion. This interval from the
beginning of delusion until we return to our primordial nature is known as the bardo. Until we rediscover enlightenment,
everything we feel, know, and experience is bardo phenomena.
Exploring this understanding, so essential to the myriad schools of Buddhism, in rich and practical detail, with the
publication of "The Six Bardos of the Tibetan Book of the Dead: Dzogchen Teachings on the Peaceful and Wrathful
Deities" renowned Dzogchen masters Ven. Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche and Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal
Rinpoche offer a guide to implementing the teachings of the bardos of life and death from the Bardo Thodrol, commonly
known as The Tibetan Book of the Dead. Drawing on their Dzogchen background -- a Buddhist lineage focused on resting
and abiding in our true nature
The co-authors explore key ideas from this famous Tibetan text, including the Vajrayana teachings, the five elements,
peaceful and wrathful deities, and the nature of the six bardos (with particular emphasis on the bardo of dying). They also
provide practical advice for deeper self-awareness, improved care of the self and others, and confronting challenges
fearlessly, especially the process of dying.
The teachings offered by the co-authors in this guide are truly universal, offering a path out of delusion and allowing us all
to "ignite our inner light" and rediscover our inner buddha nature as we move forward on the path to enlightenment.
Critique: Informed and informative, thoughtful and thought-provoking, and an inherently fascinating read from start to
finish, this paperback edition of "The Six Bardos of the Tibetan Book of the Dead: Dzogchen Teachings on the Peaceful
and Wrathful Deities" from Inner Traditions is a highly commended and core addition to personal, community, and
college/university library Buddhism collections and supplemental Bhuddism curriculum studies lists. It should be noted for
students, academia, Buddhism practitioners, and non-specialist general readers with an interest in the subject that "The Six
Bardos of the Tibetan Book of the Dead: Dzogchen Teachings on the Peaceful and Wrathful Deities" is also readily
available in a digital book format (Kindle, $15.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Ven. Khenchen Palden Sherab Rinpoche (1938 - 2010) was an extraordinary lama, teacher, and Dzogchen
master in the Nyingma school of Tibetan Buddhism. Ven. Khenpo Tsewang Dongyal Rinpoche is an accomplished scholar
and renowned Vajrayana master. He travels extensively worldwide to teach. Together the two brothers founded the
Padmasambhava Buddhist Center in upstate New York, which now has centers around the world.
The Interior Design Shelf
Beautiful Living
Valerie Darden
Rock Point
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
www.quartoknows.com
9781577154273, $30.00, HC, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Beautiful-Living-Elevate-Every-Signature/dp/1577154274
Synopsis: With the publication of "Beautiful Living: Elevate Every Room with Your Signature Style ", Valerie Darden
(founder and owner of Brexton Cole Interiors) will show you how eo elevate the elegance of every room in your house,
from the entryway to the living room, from the bathroom to the kids' rooms.
Deftly organized in the order that you should design/renovate your house, Valerie provides a wealth of meaningful tips and
tricks to design now matter how big or small a room may be. Experience her design philosophy through a photographic
journey that including photos of spaces she has created for her client's as well as her own home, and draw inspiration from
her signature modern-meets-traditional style to create the best version of your space.
Alongside gorgeous photographs, of special note is the Style Guide section featuring all the nitty gritty details you will
want (and need) when it's time to start thinking about numbers and room styling. The diagrams and charts found in
"Beautiful Living" make intimidating interior design tasks more approachable. Valerie is the master of staying within
budget and still creating the home you want, and she's set to give you the best tips and tricks including:
How to make smaller spaces appear larger
How to understand the cost of renovations and where to splurge and save
How to mix patterns and metals
Advice on wallpaper, paint, and other important finishes
Guidance on selecting the correct rug size and lighting heights
Val's favorite stores to shop for all your home essentials
The Common Questions section gives you unfettered access to Valerie's design ethos via short and casual Q&As. Here
Valerie will address her most frequently asked questions from client's and her viewers on social media, offering real-life
advice for all homeowners and design mavens.
A compendium of professional guidance, tried and tested tricks, and insider thoughts from Valerie herself, "Beautiful
Living" will inspire you to transform your space into one that is warm, stylish, and reflective of your life and signature
style.
Critique: This large format (9.3 x 1 x 11.25 inches, 2.2 pounds) hardcover coffee-table style edition of "Beautiful Living:
Elevate Every Room with Your Signature Style" is an inspirational pleasure to browse through again and again. Beautifully
and magnificently illustrated throughout will full color, full page photography and a thoroughly 'reader friendly' and
informative text, "Beautiful Living" is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional,
community, and college/university library Interior Design/Home Decorating collections and supplemental curriculum
studies lists. It should be noted that this edition of "Beautiful Living" from Rock Point is also readily available in a digital
book format (Kindle, $22.99).
Editorial Note: Valerie Darden founded Brexton Cole Interiors in 2014, naming the company after her two sons, Brexton
and Cole. Now a nationally recognized design firm, Brexton Cole Interiors have completed multiple residential and
commercial design projects all over the USA. Since 2014, Valerie's designs have been featured on HGTV, The Pioneer
Woman, The Cottage Journal, The Washingtonian, Northern Virginia Magazine, Virginia Style magazine, One Kings
Lane, My Domain, The Spruce, Ethan Allen, Better Homes & Gardens, The Home Edit, Business of Home, H3R
Magazine, Apartment Therapy, and The Every Girl. Brexton Cole Interiors has a unique design style that is described by
clients as a sophisticated blend of traditional meets modern. Valerie's style is timeless with added touches that meet the
modern aesthetic of today's consumers. (www.brextoncoleinteriors.com/about)
The Needlecraft Shelf
Anna Maria's Blueprint Quilting
Anna Maria Parry
Quarry Books
c/o Quarto Publishing Group USA
www.quartous.com
9780760389065, $26.99, HC, 192pp
https://www.amazon.com/Anna-Marias-Blueprint-Quilting-Structures/dp/0760389063
Synopsis: Featuring 16 stunning quilts and patchwork projects based on four underlying "blueprints", all while learning
skills to create your own original designs, novice and experienced quilting enthusiast alike will enjoy uncovering the
mystery of quilt designing with "Anna Maria's Blueprint Quilting: Explore Color, Pattern, and Technique with 16 Joyful
Projects from 4 Simple Design Structures " from Quarry Books.
Here celebrated fiber artist and seasoned quilt maker Anna Maria Parry demystifies her seemingly complex patterns and
sumptuous color combinations as she breaks down her signature designs into accessible "blueprints," or underlying
structures.
This accessible, visually inspiring DIY instruction manual features: A behind-the-scenes glimpse into an expert quilt
designer's process; Four quilt blueprints and accessible projects for different skill levels; Techniques for intensifying
details, adjusting colors, and scaling designs for endless possibilities; Insight into planning and executing quilting and
applique techniques; Clear illustrations and photography for an inspiring and informative experience; QR codes linked to
videos that further illuminate important techniques.
With its easy-to-follow projects and insightful techniques for all levels of quilters, "Anna Maria's Blueprint Quilting" will
empower your quilting journey as you infuse your own creations with the beauty and inspiration found within Anna Maria
Parry's extraordinary designs.
Critique: This large format (8.75 x 0.73 x 10.25 inches, 2.1 pounds) hardcover edition of "Anna Maria's Blueprint
Quilting: Explore Color, Pattern, and Technique with 16 Joyful Projects from 4 Simple Design Structures" is an ideal and
enduringly valued pick for personal, professional, and community/public library Fiber Arts/Quilting Design collections.
Thoroughly 'user friendly' and with illustrated step-by-step instruction, it should be noted that "Anna Maria's Blueprint
Quilting" is also readily available from Quarry Books in a digital book format (Kindle, $22.99) as well.
Editorial Note: After graduating with a fine arts degree from the University of Tennessee, Anna Maria Parry
(www.annamariatextiles.com) opened Handmaiden, a clothing and housewares shop through which she sold her own line
of clothing. She has partnered with more than two dozen manufacturers to design homewares, gift items, and textiles,
including fabrics with FreeSpirit. She has authored three sewing books; publishes sewing, quilting, and needlework
patterns; and teaches design, stitching, and patchwork. Anna Maria's paintings are in hundreds of private and commercial
collections, and she has been featured in Artists Magazine. Anna Maria is the owner of Craft South, an online fabric and
craft boutique. She also curates a collection of textiles in collaboration with a group of international artists (Anna Maria's
Conservatory Craft). She lives in Franklin, Tennessee and can be followed on Instagram: annamariahorner & Facebook:
AnnaMariaHornerStudio
The Metaphysical Studies Shelf
A Confluence of Witches
Casey Zabala, editor
Weiser Books
c/o Red Wheel/Weiser/Conari
www.redwheelweiser.com
Blackstone Publishing
https://www.blackstonelibrary.com
9781578638451, $18.95, PB, 224pp
https://www.amazon.com/Confluence-Witches-Celebrating-Decolonizing-Reenchanting/dp/1578638453
Synopsis: Knowledgeably compiled and edited by Casey Zabala, "A Confluence of Witches: Celebrating Our Lunar Roots,
Decolonizing the Craft, and Reenchanting Our World" explains how witchcraft has always been a diverse, constantly
evolving, culturally specific practice with many lineages and rich traditions. It features essays, spells, and reflections from
witches, traditional healers, herbalists, and artists on themes of magical activism, animism, and merging ancient practices
with modern technologies, among other mystical subjects. The diverse representation of contributors will honor and
celebrate the multicultural and multivalent ways that the witch operates within our society.
With an increased interest in and practice of witchcraft comes a greater need for authentic sources of wisdom that are
culturally relevant and sensitive to the many lineages and traditions of witchcraft, healing work, and magic. "A Confluence
of Witches" provides insights and perspectives from a diverse range of people who in one form or another identify as a
"witch." The anthology's contributors are diverse, representing the African diaspora, Indigenous, Latine, and Romani
traditions, as well as voices from the LGBTQ witch community -- each with their own sacred blend of spirituality to share.
These voices come together to illuminate the multitude of ways one can practice.
Contributors to this ouststanding anthology include: adrienne maree brown, Aja Daashuur, Alejandra Luisa Leon, Amanda
Yates Garcia, Angela Mary Magick, Ariella Daly, Aurora Luna (aka) Baby Reckless, Damiana Calvario, Dori Midnight,
Edgar Fabian Frias, Eliza Swann, Jessie Susannah Karnatz, Jezmina Von Thiele, Kiki Robinson, Kimberly Rodriguez, Liz
Migliorelli, Madre Jaguar, Maria Minnis, Olivia Ephraim Pepper, Rachel Howe, Sanyu Estelle, Star Feliz
Critique: Exceptional, informative, thought-provoking, illuminating, inspiring, "A Confluence of Witches: Celebrating Our
Lunar Roots, Decolonizing the Craft, and Reenchanting Our World" will prove to be a highly prized addition to personal,
professional, community, and college/university library Wicca and Witchcraft collections and supplemental Metaphysics
Studies curriculum reading lists. It should be noted for students, practitioners, and non-specialist general readers with an
interest in the subject that "A Confluence of Witches" from Weiser Books is also readily available in a digital book format
(Kindle, $9.99) and as a complete and unabridged audio book (Blackstone Publishing, 9798228249370, $39.50, CD).
Editorial Note: Casey Zabala (www.wandererstarot.com) is the founder of Modern Witches, a community and sacred
container for those witch-curious, witch-identifying, and magically minded to authentically connect and learn. Casey
received her masters in philosophy, cosmology, and consciousness from California Institute of Integral Studies in 2018.
She has been featured in Sabat Magazine and is quoted in Witchcraft from Taschen's Library of Esoterica series.
Pagan Portals - Fairy Herbs for Fairy Magic
Daniela Simina
Collective Ink Books
https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com
9781803415482, $12.95, PB, 136pp
https://www.amazon.com/Pagan-Portals-Fairy-Practical-Herbal/dp/1803415487
Synopsis: A practical DIY guide to herbal medicine, "Fairy Herbs for Fairy Magic" by Daniela Simina is the first book to
cater exclusively to fairy-related herbalism. Gathers in this single volume are more than 40 fairy-specific herbs, and details
their uses in fairy magic.
Introducing its reader to fairies, their mercurial nature and relationship to people, "Fairy Herbs for Fairy Magic" gives
insights into the roles and attributes of fairy witches and seers from olden times to the present day. It also introduces the
role of fairy familiars.
As a practical resource, "Fairy Herbs for Fairy Magic" is complete with ideas for rituals, charms, and spells.
Critique: A unique, fascinating, inspiring, and thoroughly 'user friendly' metaphysical introduction to herbal medicine and
the fairy folklore associated with it, "Fairy Herbs for Fairy Magic" is a part of the Pagan Portals series from Collective Ink
Books and unreservedly recommended for personal, professional, community, and college/university library Herbal
Medicine, Fairy Folklore, and Metaphysical Studies collections. It should be noted that this paperback edition of "Fairy
Herbs for Fairy Magic" is also readily available in a digital book format (Kindle, $6.99) as well.
Editorial Note: Daniela Simina (https://siminayoga.com/blog) is a practitioner of energy medicine, fairy witch, and author
focusing fairy lore and traditions. She researches, writes, and teaches various classes on esoteric subjects related to
energetic healing, yoga, and of course, fairies.
Pagan Portals - Mestra the Shapeshifter
Dianna Rhyan
Moon Books
c/o Collective Ink Books
https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com
9781803415291, $12.95, PB, 144pp
https://www.amazon.com/Pagan-Portals-Shapeshifter-Ancient-Heroine/dp/1803415290
Synopsis: In Greek mythology, Mestra was a daughter of Erysichthon of Thessaly. Antoninus Liberalis called her
Hypermestra and Erysichthon Aethon. Mestra was the mother of King Eurypylus of Cos by Poseidon. According to Ovid,
she was married to the thief Autolycus. (Wikipedia)
In mythologist Dianna Rhyan's new study, "Pagan Portals - Mestra the Shapeshifter: Ancient Heroine of the Sacred
Grove", interested readers will follow Mestra the shapeshifter through sacred groves and ancient seas, where lyrical voices
evoke forgotten worlds of peril and beauty. Mestra invites you on a journey to re-enchant the world, to discover unforeseen
landscapes where primeval spirits, nymphs, and priestesses dance together. Goddesses shelter mysteries here, nurtured by
prophetic trees, watered by wellsprings of the spirit.
A luminous mystical maiden who is also a cunning trickster, escape artist, lover, and beast, Mestra is more than a figment
of imagination. Exploring her ancient myth evokes the deep foreknowing of Earth, the dynamic energy of wild creatures,
the pull of elemental forces, and the strength of immortal passions. Her transformations call us to seasonal cycles of
change, and beckon us into the heart of nature's sacred powers.
Mestra embodies the vibrant, evergreen potential that dwells in the female psyche, accessible to us all.
Critique: An inherently fascinating, erudite, engaging, and informative read from start to finish, this paperback edition of
Dianna Rhyan's erudite study, "Pagan Portals - Mestra the Shapeshifter: Ancient Heroine of the Sacred Grove" from Moon
Books, is an extraordinary and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, professional, community, and
college/university library Greco-Roman mythology and folklore collections.
Editorial Note: Dianna Rhyan (www.staffoflaurel.com) is a mythologist and therapist who studies ancient nature
goddesses, forgotten voices, and the spirituality of sacred landscapes. She has a PhD in Ancient Greek and Latin, taught
college for thirty years, and has been a visiting scholar for archaeological excavations in Greece and Cyprus.
Pagan Portals - Celtic Fairies in North America
Morgan Daimier
Moon Books
c/o Collective Ink Books
https://www.collectiveinkbooks.com
9781803414348, $12.95, PB, 128pp
https://www.amazon.com/Pagan-Portals-Celtic-Fairies-America/dp/1803414340
Synopsis: With the publication of "Pagan Portals - Celtic Fairies in North America" by Moon Books, fairy expert Morgan
Daimier looks at the question of whether Celtic cultural fairies can be found in North America by exploring folklore across
the last four hundred years through today.
Stories of belief and personal encounters from Canada, the US, and Mexico show the flexibility of fairy belief and the way
that these beings and ideas adapt to new places and times as they are carried along with the people who believe in them.
This study is ideal for anyone who ever wondered if Celtic fairies can be found outside of Europe, what those appearances
may be like, and what people have believed and do believe about fairies in diasporic communities.
Fairy beliefs survived thousands of years of attempted suppression by religious groups. Celtic Fairies in North America
shows that they survived and adapted to emigration, immigration, and the influences of popular culture.
Critique: Impressively informative, exceptionally well written, thoroughly 'reader friendly' in organization and
presentation, "Pagan Portals - Celtic Fairies in North America" must be considered essential reading for anyone with an
interest in North American fairy-themed folklore and is definitively recommended for personal, professional, community,
and college/university library Celtic Religion, Paganism, and Metaphysical/Magick collections and supplemental Fairy
Folklore curriculum studies lists.
Editorial Note: Morgan Daimler (https://irishpagan.school/morgan-daimler) is a blogger, poet, teacher of esoteric subjects,
witch, and priestess of the Daoine Maithe. Morgan is a prolific pagan writer, having published more than a dozen books
under Moon Books alone, and she is one of the world's foremost experts on all things Fairy.
James A. Cox, Editor-in-Chief
Diane C. Donovan, Editor
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