REVIEW: Broken Silence

Broken Silence
Author: Linda Castillo

It all starts with three tragic and horrifying deaths on an Amish farm outside Painters Mill. Police Chief Kate Burkholder is called to the scene. Two men and a woman have fallen into the manure pit below the Slabaugh family barn. Overcome by methane gas, they are all dead. What first appears to be an accident might be something else. Something much more violent and shameful. Murder. Hate crimes targeting Amish are also ramping up in the county. Kate wants to catch whoever has been attacking the Amish, but runs into investigation problems. The Amish don't want to be involved with a police investigation. Kate grew up Amish, leaving the church as a teenager, so she understands. But she wants to solve the case before the assaults turn deadly.

I love this series! A new book (#11) is coming out in July and I was behind a few books. So, I decided to start reading the series at book 1 again....and then read Shamed before its July 16th publication date. Broken Silence is book 3 in the Kate Burkholder series and I'm totally enjoying re-reading these first few books. Kate Burkholder is such a strong main character. She's a wonderful police officer and investigator. And perfect for the job at Painters Mill. She grew up Amish, so she speaks Pennsylvania Dutch fluently and understands the culture. It does cause her some pain though because she is still shunned for leaving the church.

Book 1 of this series was made into a television movie, An Amish Murder, in 2013. The movie stars Neve Campbell as Kate. I wonder why they only did the one movie?? The full movie is on Youtube....just search for it. Not bad...although the book is better. :)

Breaking Silence has some great suspense and a few twists I didn't see coming. Great story! Moving on to book 4, Gone Missing.

REVIEW: Rage

Rage
Author: Richard Bachman (Stephen King)

This book is the first that Stephen King published under the pseudonym Richard Bachman in 1977. It deals with a high school student's descent into mental illness. Charlie Decker has inner demons...and when they break to the surface he takes a gun to school. There were warning signs.....he had behavior issues, trouble at home with his overbearing father, and assaulted a teacher so badly the man almost died. As he faces expulsion from high school and being sent to a reform school, Charlie breaks. He kills two teachers and takes an entire classroom hostage. 

Stephen King has let this book fall out of print. The only way to read it is to find an old copy. I found an omnibus of four Bachman books from the 1980s called The Bachman Books. Newer editions of this collection do not include Rage. King had the book removed from the collection in 1997 following a school shooting in Kentucky. The Bachman Books was found in the shooter's locker after the incident. King is quite outspoken about gun control these days.  I almost stopped reading the book out of respect for King's wishes to let this particular story disappear (and because as the mom of a teenage boy this was a really really hard book to read)....but I felt it was important to finish. I wanted to see inside the mind of a teenager who reached a point where he believed a gun was the answer to his problems.

Rage is not really about school shooters or the mental break that sends loners down that sort of violent path. For me it was more of a statement on the cruelty humans show to one another on a daily basis and how that can have lasting, horrible effects. Charlie starts his slide into mental instability as a young child witnessing his parent's toxic relationship. By the time he reaches high school, he just can't handle a world that makes him feel so small. We all endure high school....that little microcosm of society where any weakness, difference or mistake is exploited. It's a wonderful time and a horrible experience at the same time.  As Charlie sits in a classroom with a gun pointed at 25 of his fellow students, we get a peek into The Truth. The real emotions, feelings and predatory behavior that they are all feeling. The gun is just the catalyst that pushes the situation into hard, cold reality.

This story was a very emotional and difficult one for me to read. As the parent of a teenage boy, I wonder sometimes about the safety of public school and the world my son will have to navigate as an adult. It's scary. I think Rage is somewhat dated. Charlie is portrayed as a sort of anti-hero....a misunderstood, abused and confused boy who needs mental help. This version of the school shooter is a bit different than the one seen today....loners who want to take out people they are jealous of or who they feel victimized them. Loners who crave instant attention or notoriety. Internet fame. Followers. A lasting infamy. A yearning to be important. The reality seems a lot more bleak and sad than fictional Charlie Decker from 1977.

I totally understand why Stephen King wants this book to just fade away. It's too real and seems to give an excuse for violence. I'm glad I finished it. I will have to mull it over in my head a bit longer to fully decide what I think about the story though.

REVIEW: The Darkdeep

The Darkdeep
Authors:Ally Condie & Brendan Reichs

Nico Holland and his friends, Tyler and Emma, go to Still Cove to have fun flying Nico's new drone. The cliffs above Still Cove are perfect for trying it out....nice flat area, 5 miles from town, nobody to bother them. Most people avoid the area. It's just a bit too remote and perpetually covered in dense fog. The currents and jagged rocks in Still Cove are too much for boats. The cliffs are just a bit too high and foggy to be safe. And, there are the legends about The Beast....a sea monster that trolls the waters of the cove attacking boats.  But, legendary sea monsters don't mean too much to 12-year old kids when they have new, really cool, tech to try out! When local bullies fly Nico's quadcopter out into the fog and lose it over the cliff on purpose, things get dicey.  Joined by Opal Walsh, abandoned by the bullies when she wanted to help look for the drone, the kids soon find themselves involved in the adventure of a lifetime. They find....The Darkdeep! (que ominous music stab here).

I love this book! It reminds me of so many awesome kid's adventure stories I have enjoyed -- Goonies, Gremlins, Stand By Me, Stranger Things, and most recently The Rim of the World (great movie streamable on Netflix!). The story is middle grade appropriate, but enjoyable for adults, too. It was a total binge read for me. I couldn't stop reading! The Darkdeep would be a great story to read out loud to kids at bedtime or to a classroom of students. It's suspenseful, but not scary. Plus, it has plenty of potential for writing prompts, activities, discussion and other classroom applications.

The Darkdeep is the first book in this series. The second book, The Beast, will be published in October 2019. I can't wait!!

This is the first book I have read by either of these YA co-authors. I have always been curious about the Virals series that Brendan wrote with his mother, Author Kathy Reichs. After reading The Darkdeep, I will definitely try other books written by these two authors!

REVIEW: Pray for Silence

Pray for Silence
Author: Linda Castillo

Kate Burkholder grew up Amish. A horrible event when she was 16 made her leave her faith and Painters Mill, PA behind. She returned as an adult to take the job as local police chief. She understands the community, the Amish, speaks Pennsylvania Dutch, and loves the community. But it presents special problems at times. She is shunned by the Amish because she left her faith. There is such a cultural difference between the English and Amish in the small community. But, Kate Burkholder loves her job, even when it's difficult.

In this second book in the Kate Burkholder series, an Amish family is horrifically murdered at their rural farmhouse. Seven people dead...even the children. It all seems to relate to the 15-year old daughter, Mary and her secret relationship with a non-Amish boy from town. Kate has to find out who Mary was involved with....and why it may have led to the deaths of her entire family.

I love this series! Kate is a strong, driven and intelligent woman. She does her job 100%, even when it slams her with memories of her past. She works through the strained relationship with her former Amish community members the best she can, always reminded of the life she left behind. The contrast of the modern world and the Amish plain life is so marked. And when the two clash, as often happens in the major crimes Burkholder and her department investigate, it is never a pretty picture.

There are 10 books in the series, with the 11th book coming out in July. I previously read the first four books in the series several years ago and then somehow lost track of this awesome series....probably while waiting for a new book to come out. My huge TBR can be distracting...and those were years before I started using Goodreads and a blog to keep track of my reading. When I got an egalley of the newest book, Shamed, for review, I decided to re-read the series from the beginning before jumping into the new book. I am so glad I'm revisiting this series....and reading all the books I missed.

I enjoyed this second book in the series. The crime is quite gruesome and all of the characters have a really rough time reconciling why anybody would brutally murder and torture an entire Amish family. Quite suspenseful! A very enjoyable book!

Moving on to book 3, Breaking Silence. I have the book downloaded from my local library already! And book 4 is also waiting in the wings! I love this series!

REVIEW: The Department of Sensitive Crimes

The Department of Sensitive Crimes
Author: Alexander McCall Smith

I firmly believe every avid reader has a list of authors they really, really want to read....but never seem to get around to actually picking up a book. I know I'm guilty of this. I could probably list at least 10 writers that intrigue me and really want to read their work, but I'm drowning in the ocean of my TBR and never seem to get to that list of new-to-me writers.

Alexander McCall Smith is on that list. For years, I have heard about his No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency books, but have just never gotten around to actually reading the series. I even bought the first book. It still languishes on my bookshelf, waiting for some love. And, while I have been swimming in my TBR, the series has blossomed to 20 books. Sigh. I feel like the debutante who is always late to the ball.

Just when I was wondering if I would ever actually read anything by this author, a strange bright red cover caught my eye. The Department of Sensitive Crimes. After I read the blurb, I knew I was finally going to finally read Alexander McCall Smith. A tongue in cheek, humorous book about a Swedish police department that handles unusual and strange cases. How could I resist? TBR list be damned.....this book jumped line right to the top.

Peppered with anecdotes about the mental health of dogs, fly fishing, the psychology of imaginary friends, and even the supernatural, this book was incredibly fun and enjoyable! It was like Harry Hole with much less blood, alcohol and death.

This book is unusual. The story is convoluted, oftentimes absurd...but INCREDIBLE. I listened to the audio book and had the best time! I'm sure my neighbors wondered why I was digging in my garden and laughing. Detective Ulf Varg and his co-workers were great company while I was grubbing out nefarious weeds.

The story winds its way through three cases....a stabbing, a disappearance, and some strange goings on. Ulf and his fellow investigators take their job quite seriously and work to unravel the truth in each case. For me, I saw this as a more realistic depiction of law enforcement than the more exciting thriller-suspense stories. Cops do a lot of paperwork, phone calls, research....it isn't all excitement. And most cases are mundane, or just interesting, rather than exciting.

Sometimes it is refreshing to read a book that brings a smile. This book was a nice bit of brain candy for me. Loved it! It is well-written, amusing, and enjoyable. This is NOT a detective thriller.....don't expect gun play, fast-paced excitement and a hard investigation. This book is about the characters, about humanity and the absurdities that happen in life.

The audio book is narrated by David Rintoul and runs just over 7 hours. Rintoul has a nice voice and gave a superb performance. I have hearing loss, but was easily able to hear and understand the entire book.

I officially love Alexander McCall Smith. And I'm going to read The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency ASAP. I'm sorry I waited so long!

REVIEW: The Halloween Mystery

The Halloween Mystery
Author: Joan Lowery Nixon

Mike, Susan and Barney really don't want a babysitter on Halloween. But their parents insist. Mrs Foshee is a strange woman. Could it be that their new babysitter is a witch? Mike and Susan use their best powers of observation to discover the truth about all the strange things happening at their house on Halloween.

This story is definitely a cute children's tale about Halloween. It also has a great lesson about not rushing to judge people who are a bit different. Sometimes there are common sense explanations for strange behavior and weird happenings. The illustrations by Jim Cummins really bring the tale to life.

This book would be a quick bedtime read for kids. The story is Halloween themed without being scary. The pictures are colorful and interesting. This could be a perfect story for young readers, reluctant readers who like Halloween, or for reading out loud.

Published in 1979, this book is currently out of print, but used copies are readily available.

Joan Lowery Nixon wrote more than 100 books for children before her death in 2003. She wrote mystery, suspense, historical fiction and even non-fiction works for kids. I love to read children's books in-between my usual adult mystery, horror, and thriller reads. I'm definitely going to re-visit more of Joan Lowery Nixon's books. They are always enjoyable and entertaining!

REVIEW: The Secret Adversary

The Secret Adversary
Author: Agatha Christie

Agatha Christie has been my favorite author since I was 9 and spent a summer break from school reading Hercule Poirot novels. I decided to revisit her books yet again...in publication order. The Secret Adversary, Christie's second novel, was published in 1922. It introduces Tommy & Tuppence, two characters that would go on to star in three more novels and a short story collection. The final Tommy & Tuppence novel, Postern of Fate, was the last book Agatha Christie wrote before her death, but not the last one published.

In this first story, Tommy and Tuppence are still single (they married each other later) and trying to find employment after the end of World War I. Both are running out of money and getting a bit desperate, but they don't want to tie themselves to boring, run-of-the-mill jobs following all the excitement of the war era. They decide to form a partnership, The Young Adventurers, Ltd, and advertise for unusual jobs just to keep their lives interesting. Before they even place their first advertisement, they get an offer for employment......and end up over their heads in a case of missing persons, international espionage, and murderous, sneaky villains. They yearned for excitement -- and they got it!

I listened to the audio book version of this story (Dreamscape Media) and had the best time. The story is a bit dated after almost 100 years, but that's what made it an enjoyable listen. I had to smile each time Tuppence called someone "Old Bean.'' I loved all the 1920s lingo and social commentary about women not wanting to return to a quiet life after the war. Tommy and Tuppence are wonderful, young characters starting out in life in the years between the wars. They want excitement and security in a world that has irrevocably changed. Makes for a very enjoyable listening experience.

The Dreamscape audio book is narrated by Emma Fenney and runs just over 8 1/2 hours. Fenney has a pleasant voice and reads at a nice pace. She does a great job voicing all the different characters.

All in all, a fun listening experience! I am having the best time re-visiting Christie's books. She's been my favorite author for 41 years for a reason! On to her 3rd book -- Murder on the Links. Hercule Poirot!

REVIEW: Welcome to Dead House

Welcome to Dead House
Author: R.L. Stine

Yep...I'm 50 years old and I'm reading Goosebumps books. Why not? The stories are fun, a bit creepy, and have a lot of nostalgia for me. Back when my oldest son was little I used to read these books out loud to him. Sometimes he would read to me. :) We did different voices for the characters and acted out the action, often ending up laughing and just having a great time. My son is now a grown man, married, and stationed in San Diego with the US Navy. This year, I promised myself I would read (or re-read) books that I really enjoy, reviewing each one. I decided it was time to revisit the Goosebumps series just for fun, and Mom-nostalgia.

Welcome to Dead House is the first Goosebumps book, published in 1992. At one time, my son had more than 20 of these books. We read and re-read them until he outgrew them and moved on to more in-depth stories. I did not realize how many books the Goosebumps series mushroomed into...several different spin off series....more than 100 books in total. Wow! Add in the television show and a couple movies....and the Goosebumps series really got kids reading and watching horror stories written specifically for them.

In this first story, Josh and Amanda are upset about moving to Dark Falls. They didn't want to leave their friends behind, and the house their family inherited from an uncle is old and creepy. Little do they know just how creepy it is -- but they quickly find out! Turns out Dark Falls is hiding some dark secrets....

Each chapter ends with a mini-cliffhanger....a bit of drama to get kids to want to read the next chapter. Perfect for silent reading, or reading out loud. The earlier books in the Goosebumps series are a bit darker and less humorous than later books. This story has some pretty gruesome and depressing imagery...but nothing graphic or too scary. Moving is often a traumatic and terrifying experience for kids. This story just turns that fear into a creepy story about a town town with dark secrets.

The television series did a two part episode (made for TV movie) on this story. It can be streamed on Netflix for those who want to revisit some R.L. Stine goodness without reading the book. Or better yet read the book....then watch the TV version to see what changes were made. :) Welcome to Dead House is listed under Specials, episodes 11 and 12, on Netflix.

This book made for an enjoyable afternoon's reading.....and some nice memories of time spent reading to my son. :) Dark, but entertaining and fun, story! I'm going to keep reading this series in order just for the fun of it. Great palate cleansers in-between adult fiction. :) I love children's books. There is no reason why adults can't enjoy them too!

REVIEW: Mysteries of People and Places

Mysteries of People and Places
Author: Phyllis Raybin Emert

When I was in grade school I loved it when they passed out book order forms. I would carefully circle up to three books from the list and then ask my mom if I could order them. Most of the time she said yes. I always loved the books that were collections of mysteries from history or the natural world. From cryptids to strange coincidences, I was always curious about the unexplained or unusual. And I still am!

In the 1990s, Phyllis Raybin Emert published several collections of stories for middle grade age kids. While most of the books are out of print at the moment, used copies aren't hard to come by. I'm hoping at some point the publisher does some updates on facts and re-releases these stories. Great fun to read -- even as an adult!

Mysteries of People and Places collects 26 tales of interesting or unusual people and places. From places with legends like Oak Island and its famous treasure to the Lost Colony of Roanoke to strange tales of famous people like Agatha Christie's disappearance and the Mid-air exploits of D.B. Cooper, the tales are varied and interesting. Illustrations by Jael really make the stories pop.

Most of the stories I was familiar with, although I did learn some new interesting facts. Several were new to me, like the story of the Royal Charter shipwreck, the disappearance of Dorothy Arnold and the loss at sea of Donald Crowhurst. 

The stories are short. Most are only 2-3 pages long. Each is engaging and interesting. I could see this book being used in a classroom setting as supplemental reading or to entice reluctant readers. I always enjoy books by Phyllis Raybin Emert. Her tales of the mysterious and unusual always give me a fun afternoon of entertaining reading! I read a lot of adult horror and suspense novels....and children's books are often a great palate cleanser for my brain after reading heavier fiction. These collections of interesting stories are perfect short reads for in-between longer, more adult themed, novels. 

REVIEW: The Ghost of Marlow House

The Ghost of Marlow House
Author: Bobbi Holmes

When Danielle Boatman inherits her aunt's house she has no idea that she is also inheriting the resident ghost. Walt Marlow has been dead for a very long time, but has never moved on. He tells Danielle that he might be able to move on if she can discover who murdered him. Danielle starts sleuthing so that she can fulfill her dream to turn Marlow House into a bed and breakfast.....sans ghost.

The Ghost of Marlow House is the first book in the Haunting Danielle series. The series has 20 books. I enjoyed this first book enough to keep reading. Cute, nicely paced, cozy mystery. I'm always up for a ghost story, even a humorous one. Walt wonders why other people are in his house....and Danielle wonders why she has to be burdened with a cranky ghost. Slowly she realizes that he has a reason to be a bit cranky -- someone murdered him and it's remained unsolved for nearly 100 years. That would make anybody a bit touchy.

Fun, entertaining story! On to book 2....The Ghost Who Loved Diamonds!

REVIEW: Fright or Flight

Flight or Fright
Authors: Various
Editors: Stephen King & Bev Vincent

I haven't stepped foot on an airplane in 24 years following a very, very, very rough landing at KCI International during a storm. Those 10 minutes of silent, white knuckle terror ruined flying for me. I'm terrified to get on a plane. There isn't enough alcohol or happy pills to make a flight enjoyable for me. One lightning filled, turbulent, fast loss of altitude event ......  Done. Completely done. Soaring above the clouds strapped into a metal capsule that weighs upwards of 75 tons is just tempting fate. Not to mention I firmly fear that each of us only gets one extra life, do-over, miraculous save....whatever you want to call it. I got out of one scrape unscathed....the next one, my luck might not kick in. Game over. Know what I mean?

Stephen King has spent decades scaring the piss out of me. Vampires. Crazed killers. Telekinetic angry teenagers. Demons. Aliens. CLOWNS. Oh my god....clowns. Hate them! And now he pokes me in yet another fear factor -- flying. When I saw this story anthology, edited by King and Bev Vincent, I knew I had to read every single one of the 17 stories contained within. I can enjoy the horror....while safely on the ground.

I love this book! I knew I was going to love it the minute I saw the dedication list at the beginning. The story collection is dedicated to pilots who landed safely after a harrowing flight....and the list includes Ted Striker. There was absolutely no need for anyone to queue up to slap me as I lost control while reading....I was totally ready for in-flight horror. And, I didn't have the fish.

The stories are varied with selections from classic writers like Sir Arthur Conan Doyle and Ambrose Bierce to the modern commercial era featuring stories by Joe Hill and E. Michael Lewis. Even Roald Dahl has a tale in this anthology. I enjoyed every single story....none of them crashed and burned. Some were less horrific....others were completely creepy. Each has an introduction giving info on the author and the story. Loved it!

While Stephen King has been scaring me for decades, Bev Vincent is a new author for me. He writes for the Cemetery Dance Magazine, authored the companion book to the Dark Tower series by King, and has an impressive list of magazine short stories listed in his bio. I'm definitely going to look for his work and do some very enjoyable reading! I love it when I discover a new-to-me author that writes in one of my favorite genres! I hope they collaborate on more story anthologies....I really enjoyed this one!

I recommend these tales for anyone who enjoys horror short stories, whether they love flying or hate it. As someone who refuses to get on a plane, I found these stories a bit more distressing than others might....made for a fun experience!

**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Scribner via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. What you make of this review is your own choice....but I recommend a hat, a broach or perhaps a terradactyl.**

REVIEW: Dead Bolt

Dead Bolt
Author: Juliet Blackwell

Mel Turner renovates homes. Not just any homes...historic homes in San Francisco. Every house she works on has a story, a colorful past. Sometimes, Mel encounters ghosts and a mystery as she brings old homes back to their former glory. This time, her current project is a Queen Anne Victorian. It's a difficult project but not because of the work required. The homeowners insist on staying in the house during renovations and the resident ghosts seem determined that work should stop. Plus, a cantankerous neighbor, Emile Blunt, causes problems. When the neighbor is killed, Mel finds herself sucked into the murder investigation. She's a suspect! Yikes!

I like this series. Mel is a strong main character. She's funny, feisty and very good at her job. She still struggles with her new found ability to see ghosts but is doing her best to deal with it. I love the background theme of historic home renovation...perfect backdrop for ghosts and mysteries! The stories always have a nice mix of humor and mystery. Makes for an enjoyable reading experience! The books can be read as stand alone stories and don't necessarily have to be read in order, but there is some character development that might be better enjoyed by reading the series in order.

Dead Bolt is the second book in the Haunted Home Renovation series. There are seven books in the series.

I listened to the audio book version of this story. Narrated by Xe Sands, the audio is just over 7 hours long. Sands reads at a nice pace and has a pleasant voice. Overall, a very entertaining performance. I have partial hearing loss but was easily able to hear and understand this entire audio book.

I will definitely be reading the rest of this series! :)

REVIEW: The Mysterious Affair at Styles

The Mysterious Affair at Styles
Author: Agatha Christie

I first read The Mysterious Affair at Styles in 1977. I was 9 and on summer break from school. My teacher from the prior school year  lived nearby and she was having a garage sale. I rode my bike over to say hello and check out her sale. On one table I saw a collection of paperback books in a slipcover. Agatha Christie. Hercule Poirot. Murder mysteries. I was intrigued. I had never read a mystery novel before. A dapper little man was pictured on the side of the box. He sported an almost impossible looking mustache and an odd pair of glasses. I loved to read. These books were obviously for adults. I had a high reading level, so I wasn't deterred in the slightest.  The one deterrent -- the box had a $4.00 price tag. How could I possibly get my mother to give me $4? Utterly exorbitant pricing for a yard sale! I really wanted those books so I thought up my only possible chance while peddling home. I made my request....with the addendum that I would mow the lawn and tend the garden all summer in exchange. Understand that in 1977 sodas and candy bars cost 10 cents and entire day at the city pool cost a quarter. Four whole dollars was a HUGE amount of money for a 9 year old. I explained that I wanted a set of Agatha Christie paperbacks. Books won the day! Mom got out her little stash of mad money and counted out 4 dollar bills. I raced down the block....imagining scores of people showing up to her sale, all wanting those books. Jumping off my bike, I eyed my prize and swooped in to snatch them from the table and make my purchase. My teacher smiled (she had a rough year trying to teach me that year. In the 70s, small town school systems didn't know what to do with kids who were different or had very high IQs so it was rough on both of us) and I raced my way back home as fast as I could peddle my bike. After doing all the chores my mother required of me for the day, I retreated to my room with the books. I opened The Mysterious Affair at Styles.....and fell in love with Agatha Christie's writing. She is my favorite author to this day.  I spent an entire summer mowing, weeding, watering, picking tomatoes.....and reading Agatha Christie. Best $4 I ever spent!

I still have all 5 of those original paperbacks. They are 40+ years old and in sad shape. So, when I decided to re-read Christie in publication order, I left the physical book on the shelf (the pages are falling out) and opted for the audio version from the library instead. I'm going to re-read and replace my old Christie books in order. As I read, I will buy a new copy for my shelf....and repurpose the old, dying paperbacks for craft projects.

The Mysterious Affair at Styles is the first Hercule Poirot mystery.....and the first book Agatha Christie published in 1920. Christie would go on to write more than 30 books featuring Poirot and his amazing little gray cells. After almost 100 years, the dapper little man is still going strong, immortalized by books, film and television.

In this first mystery, Arthur Hastings is on sick leave from the Western Front. He is recovering at the estate of an old friend, John Cavendish, at Styles St. Mary. Hastings is overjoyed when he discovers an old acquaintance staying in the village. Hercule Poirot is in England to escape the war in Europe. His famous detective skills certainly come in handy when Emily Cavendish is found dead in her locked bedroom, seemingly a victim of foul play. How was she killed? And by whom? Hercule puts his gray cells to work on the case, while Hastings forms his own conclusions.

The audio version of this book from Dreamscape Media is wonderful! I loved having one of my favorite stories read to me! Narrated by Charles Armstrong, the audio is just shy of six hours long. I listened while working outside and thoroughly enjoyed re-visiting the first murder mystery I ever read.

Lovely Golden Age detective novel!  I'm now going to retire my old worn out paperback and purchase a new copy for my keeper shelf. Moving on to Christie's second book (1922) -- The Secret Adversary!

REVIEW: Read on Arrival

Read on Arrival
Author: Nora Page

Read on Arrival is the second book in the new Bookmobile Mystery cozy series. 75-year old Cleo Watkins has been a librarian in Catalpa Springs, GA for decades. Her nemesis, Dixie Huddleston, checked out a book from the library 40 years earlier....and has refused to bring it back. At times she has offered to return it...but it has always been a trick. After decades of ridiculous behavior on Dixie's part, Cleo has had enough. She wishes Dixie would just go away. When the tiresome woman is found murdered, Cleo is shocked. She really did want the library's copy of Luck and Lore: Good Luck, Death Lore and Deadly Omens of the Deep South to be returned....but not over Dixie's dead body.

This is the first book I've read in this series. And, I really wanted to enjoy it as I love another popular cozy series with a bookmobile background theme.....but, I really had problems getting into this story. I didn't really connect with the characters or plot. The first few chapters involve a lot of squabbling between characters. I just found that hard to slog through. And the premise of a library allowing a patron to have an overdue book for 40 years.....that just doesn't happen. Long, long ago Dixie Huddleston would have paid the cost for replacing that book. Libraries are funded with public money and run by a board that reports to a city commisison or other government group. If someone checks out a book and refuses to return it....any library would either get the replacement price of that book or the physical book back...not allow their librarian to play a silly game of cat and mouse for four decades. Libraries have book replacement fees put into collections, added onto property taxes or other forced collection avenues....they even press theft charges if a patron absolutely refuses to return or pay for a book. Stealing library books can be a big deal. I found the plot premise of Dixie Huddleston getting by with stealing a book for decades silly. It kept me from losing myself in the story. A 40 year fight over a $10 book....   nah.

The rest of the plot was ok. The mystery moved at a nice pace. And the characters were ok. Cleo is an interesting character. After several decades as the head librarian, she is determined to protect the library and its patrons. But this series doesn't seem to be for me....not every story is for every reader. This one just doesn't seem to be my cup of tea. Middle of the road rating from me, as the writing style is pretty good and the setting/background is interesting and different. I just didn't enjoy this one. Other cozy enthusiasts might really love it. I hope so!! I'm passing on the rest of this series....moving on.

**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Crooked Lane Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Ice Wolves

Ice Wolves
Author: Amie Kaufman

I loved the Illuminae Files series, so I wanted to read more by Amie Kaufman. In a bit of a reading slump right now....needed something different....and this book was the perfect change of pace for me! Ice Wolves is the first book in the Elementals series. Magic, Shape Shifters, dragons. Awesome!

Anders and Rayna are street kids. They live by their wits. Anders struggles a bit, but Rayna always has his back. But when Rayna transforms into a scorch dragon and Anders takes his form as an ice wolf, he wonders if they really are family. A wolf can't possibly be related to a dragon. Dragons are blood thirsty, dangerous creatures who want to destroy everything. How can his sister be a dragon? When dragons appear and take Rayna away with them, Anders is determined to get his sister back. But he's in the Ulfar Academy for training as a wolf. How can he escape and go rescue his sister?

This is such a fun, adventurous romp of a story! I listened to the audio book while working in my garden and enjoyed Anders and Rayna immensely. Nice mix of humor, adventure and fantasy.

The audio book is just under 8 hours long and narrated by Johnathan McClain. McClain's performance is very entertaining. He does the character voices quite well and reads at an even pace. I have hearing loss but was easily able to hear and enjoy the entire book.

This series has two books so far, with a third scheduled to publish in 2020. Eagerly awaiting my library to shelve book two, Scorch Dragons, so I can find out what happens next!

REVIEW: Mysteries of Ships & Planes (Strange Unsolved Mysteries)

Mysteries of Ships & Planes (Strange Unsolved Mysteries)
Author: Phyllis Raybin Emert

Mysteries of Ships & Planes gathers 28 stories about strange events at sea and in the air. The stories tell the tales of shipwrecks, disappearing planes, war time mysteries, and other weird occurrences in history involving ships and planes. Some tales such as the legend of the Mary Celeste, and the loss of Flight 19 were familiar stories. Others, including the sinking of the Eleanor Hamilton and the lost crew of Blimp L-18, were completely new to me. So interesting!

The stories are short. Each is only 2-3 pages long. The content is middle grade appropriate, but still interesting reading for adults. This would be a perfect book to entice reluctant readers to read. Anyone interested in unsolved mysteries would enjoy this collection of 28 short tales.

There are several similar books by Phyllis Raybin Emert. UFOs, monsters, ghosts, weird animals, dreams, unsolved mysteries, scary places....just about anything mysterious and spooky has been included in one of her books. I love reading story collections like this! Reminds me of the books I used to order from the book order forms at school. :)

This book was published in 1990 and appears to be currently out of print. Used copies are readily available online, and check your local public library. I wish these books would be given a bit of an update and re-released. Kids love these little stories about weird things. Adults, too!

REVIEW: Stoker's Wilde

Stoker's Wilde
Authors: Steven Hopstaken & Melissa Prussi

A mysterious man called the Black Bishop is using supernatural means to cause murder and mayhem in Victorian England. An unlikely duo...Bram Stoker and Oscar Wilde....join forces with an expert on vampires and other supernatural creatures to battle the Black Bishop before he can open the gates of hell itself.

This novel is a sweet mix of supernatural horror and Victorian social commentary. There's a little bit of everything in the  mix -- vampires, werewolves, cultists -- not to mention imprisonment under morality laws and forced social conformity. When I first started reading I wasn't sure I was going to like this book....the plot line just seemed a bit too much. But....it didn't take long for me to get totally pulled into the story. This book surprised me! A group of monster hunters formed by two famous authors before their fame took hold, a European expert on supernatural cults, and theater actors is an incredibly difficult thing to pull off -- but these two authors did it well! The story is told through the correspondence of Stoker and Wilde. It was reminiscent of Dracula. Normally I don't really like epistolary novels...but in this case, it works. Loved it! 

I will definitely be looking for more by both of these writers. Very enjoyable read! A dash of the truth mixed with a bit of the fantastical smothered in a nice dose of classic monster horror -- very entertaining book!

**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Flame Tree Press via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Cardinal Sin

Cardinal Sin
Author: J.R. Ripley

Amy Simms is in hot water again. Residents of Ruby Lake, NC all love her....but rumors are flying about her being a murder magnet. Where Amy goes....a body shows. Amy adamantly argues that it isn't her fault. Mysteries just seem to find her. And can she help it if she can't resist snooping....umm sleuthing...to find out the truth? Cardinal Sin is the 9th book in the Bird Lover's Mystery series. And yep -- Amy finds a body. Again.

Newcomer to town Yvonne Rice stops by Amy's shop, Birds & Bees, to ask about an unusual bird she has seen at her cabin on Webber's Pond. She invites Amy and her bestie Kim to come to a housewarming party at her cabin. All the neighbors living around Webber's Pond are in attendance. The evening gets a bit weird when Yvonne brings out a ouija board and the planchette spells out "I AM MURDERED.'' Things get even more weird when just after the party ends, Yvonne is dead. A gaping hole in her chest.

Who killed Yvonne? Is Amy really a murder magnet?

I love this series! The bird watching/feeding theme is interesting and fun. The characters are all small town quirky. I live in the region of NC where the stories are set. It's fun to read about places nearby like Asheville and Charlotte. I like the mix of humor and mystery. These books definitely quality as cozy mysteries -- no cursing, no graphic sex or violence, humor.....   I always get an enjoyable afternoon of reading each time a new book comes out.

Fun read! I enjoyed it! I can't wait for the next book! :)

**I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book from Kensington via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Berried Secrets

Berried Secrets
Author: Peg Cochran

Monica Albertson comes to Cranberry Cove to help her half-brother Jeff. Jeff's cranberry farm is about to go bankrupt and she wants to help him keep his business. Just after she notices some anomalies in the farm's financial records, the former manager's body is found floating in the cranberry bog during harvest. Apparently, Sam Culbert was stealing from the farm the entire time Jeff was fighting in Afghanistan, making Jeff the prime suspect in his murder. But, Monica knows Jeff isn't a murderer. She has to find the real killer before her brother ends up in jail!

I love cranberries. I buy a year's supply each fall when they appear in stores for the holiday season. I keep them in the freezer and put them into my morning protein shake almost every day. So when I saw a cozy series set on a cranberry farm, I had to read it! There are four books in the series.

I enjoyed Monica as a main character. She is intelligent and dedicated to helping her brother. Jeff is recovering from injuries sustained in Afghanistan and really does need her help. The one character I really didn't like....and that almost made me stop reading the book on more than one occasion....is the overbearing stepmother, Gina. I found the character just a bit too annoying. Gina did mellow out and became helpful when the mystery got rolling. That's what kept me reading when I wanted to jump into the book and tell her to shut up. Lord have mercy -- what an annoying character! lol

All in all, a nice start to a cozy series! Since this series is a relatively short one....just four books...I will definitely read the rest of the series. I liked the side theme of a cranberry farm....there was a lot of information on growing and harvesting cranberries sprinkled in with the mystery. I enjoyed it!

This is definitely a cozy mystery. No cursing, no sex, no graphic descriptions of murder victims. An enjoyable "clean'' read. On to book 2!

This is the first book by Peg Cochran that I've read. She has written several other cozy series including the Gourmet De-Lite series, Lucille Mysteries and a new series, Murder, She Reported.

REVIEW: Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library

Escape from Mr. Lemoncello's Library
Author: Chris Grabenstein

What a wonderful, imaginative, and creative story! This book totally reminded me why I still love to read children's books!

After several years without a city library, a new wonderous library has been built by an ecentric, quirky billionaire...Mr. Lemoncello. Kyle and his school friends are familiar with Mr. Lemoncello as his company has made many of their favorite boardgames, including Mr. Lemoncello's Indoor Outdoor Scavenger Hunt. At school, they write essays for a contest -- the winners get to see the new library before anybody else. It's the adventure of a lifetime!

For me, this story was reminiscent of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory with a library theme instead of a candy factory. The characters are fun and quirky....and there's lots of book references and library goodness. Fun story!

I was delighted to find out that there is a television movie version, streamable on Hulu. I'm going to watch it as soon as I post this review. :) Following my rule: Always read the book first! I'm not quite sure how they are going to capture the magic of this story in only 69 minutes though.....the movie must cut out a lot. I hope I'm not disappointed.

I listened to the audio book version of this story. The audio is almost 6.5 hours long and narrated by Jesse Bernstein. Bernstein reads at a nice pace and does a great job bringing the characters to life. Excellent performance!

There are 3 other books in the Lemoncello series so far. Chris Grabenstein has written several books for middle grade kids. I'm definitely going to be reading more! Loved this story!

REVIEW: If Walls Could Talk

If Walls Could Talk
Author: Juliet Blackwell

Melanie Turner remodels homes. Not just any homes....historic San Francisco homes. Rejuvenating properties to their former glory is Melanie's favorite thing to do. She's taken on a problematic project this time. A dilapidated Pacific Heights mansion needs a makeover. The property owner attempts a drunken DIY session that ends with a death by power tool. Melanie steps in to help finish the remodel work, but the dead man's ghost won't leave her alone. She begins investigating to save her reputation as a contractor and rid herself of a pesky spirit.

I listened to the audio book version of this story and enjoyed every minute of it. The background theme (historic homes restoration), characters, and mystery were all interesting. I'm not sure how I would respond to the situation (death by power tool is pretty gruesome), but Melanie stepped right in to try and help. I like her as a MC. She is intelligent, very good at her job and feisty when required. It would be difficult to be a woman in a typically male job, but she pulls it off with gusto.

This book is definitely a cozy. While the death is a gruesome, it isn't described in graphic details. There is no sex, cussing or otherwise distressing moments. The story is a nice mix of humor and mystery. I like the combination of historic home renovation and murder mystery. It just works well. And wouldn't that be a fun job?? So much history! And getting to bring an old home back to life. It would be so interesting! Lots of work....but rewarding!

There are seven books in this series. I'm definitely going to be reading my way through the rest! This was a fun book to read! Juliet Blackwell writes several other cozy series including Witchcraft Mysteries, and Art Lover's Mystery series.

Moving on to book two -- Dead Bolt!

REVIEW: The Haunting of the Old Box: The Spirit Guide

The Haunting of the Old Box: The Spirit Guide
Author: Caroline Clark

Fern is obsessed with the occult and she's excited to interview a reportedly possessed murderer in prison. Raymond Tibbs isn't dangerous, but what he carries inside definitely is. When Fern starts showing signs of possession herself, two paranormal experts come to help. Everything ties back to a Dybbuk box and the evil spirit it contained.

I didn't realize when I started reading this book that I was jumping in at book 5 of a series. But I was easily able to grasp the characters and plot, even without reading the prior books. Gail and Jesse are Spirit Guides, helping people rid themselves of all sorts of evil entities. This time, they have to call in some expert help as the demon involved is very dangerous. This story reminded me of a story I watched on tv about a woman who bought a Dybbuk box in an antique store and accidentally brought a demon home with her. Eeek! The Jewish history and ceremony added a nice depth to this story.

All in all, an enjoyable, quick read. I'm going to backtrack and read more of this series, starting with book one. The concept isn't anything new -- exorcists/ghost-demon hunters travelling about helping people -- but I liked the characters and the plot. It's a simple, scary read....nothing fancy.....brain candy! Pure entertainment. It made for a nice afternoon of reading. I won't be opening any wooden wine boxes anytime soon! :)

The book could do with a bit of editing in places. For example, at one point the character Fern had a sudden name change to Clare for a bit. It didn't hurt my enjoyment of the book though. No writing issues....just a few minor editing mistakes.

REVIEW: Inherit the Bones

Inherit the Bones
Emily Littlejohn

Gemma Monroe is a detective in Cedar Valley, CO. She's six months pregnant and stressing over her relationship with the baby's father. Her life gets a lot more complicated when a traveling circus comes to town  and one of their workers is murdered. The killing reveals some dark secrets related to a 30-year old cold case. Gemma will discover that digging for the truth when it means revealing past dark deeds can be very, very dangerous.

I really like this series! I accidentally jumped in at book three, Lost Lake, a few months ago, and finally backtracked to read the first book. I like Gemma Monroe as a main character. She is very good at her job. She's intelligent, thorough, ethical, and determined, but being driven comes with a price. The unsolved murders of two young boys in 1985 haunts her. She has nightmares about the dead boys. Her determination to solve the case and get justice for the victims almost breaks her at times.

The mystery moves at a nice pace with plenty of suspense. I figured out some of the clues, but the ending surprised me. I love it when a book holds a few surprises back until the very end. Nicely done! I'm glad I finally jumped back to re-start this series at the beginning. It isn't necessary to read the books in order, but I do understand the characters -- especially Gemma -- a lot better now that I've read the first book.

There are three books in this series, with a fourth book, Shatter the Night, coming out in December 2019. I can't wait! For now, I'm moving on to the second book, A Season to Lie.

REVIEW: Be Still My Beading Heart

Be Still My Beading Heart
Author: Janice Peacock

Jax O'Connell is a glass bead artist. When she isn't working with glass to make her one of a kind beads and jewelry, she slips in a bit of amateur sleuthing. Be Still My Beading Heart is a Valentine's Day short mystery and part of the Glass Bead Mystery Series.

I enjoyed this story. The action centers around someone stealing Jax's VW Bug. I've loved the old style Bugs since my family had a lemon yellow one back in the 70's. I wish I had one! I love my PT Cruiser.....but the little rounded putt-putt classic VW Bugs are still my favorite cars! Valentine's Day for Jax turns out to be a mix of juggling two love interests and looking for her car. Cute story!

I like the background theme of a glass artist who creates beads and jewelry for sale to shops and galleries. There was a nice mix of humor and sleuthing. Well-written. Fun to read. I will definitely be reading more by this author! I love reading short stories that introduce a cozy series or author that is new-to-me. After reading this story, I'm definitely going to read the Glass Bead Mystery series. I like to read cozies in-between thrillers, horror novels or other hard-hitting adult fiction. Makes for a nice relaxing reading experience....a happy palate cleanser before jumping into rougher reads again. This series has fun characters and humor....perfect cozy series for me!

The Glass Bead Mystery series has 4 books so far. The author's website states that she will be announcing a new cozy series in 2019! I enjoyed this short story. I own book 1 of this series, High Strung. Looking forward to reading it!

**I received a free copy of this short story from the author. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale

Under the Moon: A Catwoman Tale
Writer: Lauren Myracle
Art by: Isaac Goodhart
Lettering/Coloring: Jeremy Lawson, Deron Bennett

Selina Kyle is constantly victimized by her mother's horrible live-in boyfriends. Her current "love'', Dernell seems to be around to stay. Selina has endured his temper and abuse for two years. At school she has three friends (read as...people she doesn't consider jerks...)....Angie, Tristan and.....Bruce Wayne. But, high school isn't her only worry. People in Gotham are being violently murdered by a monster called The Gotham Growler. Sharp Teeth, ripping claws, savage attacks. The kids at school are scared. Selina isn't scared. She already knows the world is full of monsters.  She leaves home, vowing to become stealthy and aloof, never allowing anyone to victimize her again.

My husband is a huge comic book fan. He knows the backstory and details of nearly every DC and Marvel character. I love comics too, but as a child I wasn't allowed to read them. My parents didn't let me to read superhero comics. To this day, I'm not sure why. My best guess is that the considered them violent and inappropriate reading for a girl (eyeroll). I've been grown up for years now and can read what I want...so slowly I'm starting to enjoy comics and appreciate the art and storylines. I'm no expert like my husband. Sometimes that's a disadvantage. But when it comes to new visions of established characters, I see it as a positive thing. I can read reboots and updates with new eyes and enjoy them for the fascinating story, rather than being disappointed that an old storyline is getting a reboot. I love this new introduction to Selina Kyle. It follows the framework of the old storyline, but updates it to appeal to a new, younger audience.

Positives first:

The art in this book is awesome! The dark blues and shadowy hues work perfectly for a Catwoman story.

I like the plot and most of the changes in the story & character. I felt so sorry for Selina when she endured so much at the hands of her mother's bad boyfriends...and loved seeing her grow into a strong character. My favorite character in the story is hands-down Selina's new friend, Ojo. Definitely a Parkour enthusiast, Ojo is an awesome character that really brings the updated feel home. Her other new friends, Briar Rose and Yang, are interesting additions to the story as well. They form a family of sorts for Selina, who has learned to withdraw from any emotional ties. It added a nice depth to the character.

I do understand that this story might be a bit of a drastic departure from the norm for some Catwoman fans. There have been other recent Catwoman stories published that are completely different (I haven't read any of them....so this is secondhand information), and this new book does not follow the character or story continuity very much at all. This version of Selina Kyle is only 14. She is a runaway, a high school dropout, and makes some pretty rough decisions -- self harm, living homeless, joining a gang of street kids, etc. There are changes to the character....but I liked the differences. After looking at other reviews, I see that some did not. Not every story (or comic book) will appeal to every reader.

Now a few concerns:

This story is definitely aimed at a younger YA audience....so why all the cussing? And at one point, Selina gets angry and yells about boys being dicks, followed up by a string of rather graphic penis references. I'm not sure that is something a 13-14 year old would be mature enough to read. I do understand that kids cuss...I have a middle school age boy at home, so I'm well aware. But I think putting the F word repeatedly into a graphic novel aimed at 13 year olds is a bit much.....

The storyline gets a bit rough in places....a dead kitten, some rather rough child abuse, etc. I would start the age range for this book at 15+. Older teens can handle the cussing and strong plot. Might be a bit too rough for younger kids. It all depends on maturity level. Some kids are more mature than others. Parental guidance suggested. That being said.....I remember how much I hated my parents trying to "protect'' me from things I didn't need protection from. Kids cuss. Kids say rather graphic things to each other on a daily basis at school. And they are witness to real and fake violence at pretty high levels these days. So...despite the fact I was surprised at the F word popping out in this graphic novel....that word is in just about every Youtube video, television show and social media post that kids see these days. I've played video games with my son on public servers before and heard kids that sounded really young spouting off torrents of cussing that were beyond even what I could string together. So....I suppose even those limits are relaxed and change with the times. Still not sure that the F word was entirely necessary though.....but I also recognize that I am way way outside the target age range for this graphic novel.

I would change the title to "Under the Moon: A Catgirl Tale'' to be honest. Selina takes that nickname...why not run with it? Selina is very young in this story and just learning how to take care of herself. In my mind "Catwoman'' conjures up images of a woman who already knows her way around and has her street smarts at max. In this story, Selina finds herself homeless and has to learn to find her way. Definitely more of a Catgirl.

All in all, an enjoyable graphic novel! I liked the new approach to the character!

REVIEW: The Castle On Sunset

The Castle on Sunset
Author: Shawn Levy

Before reading this book, the only details I knew about the Chateau Marmont were the seedy ones like the bungalow where John Belushi OD'd, Lindsay Lohan racking up $50,000 in unpaid charges, and other tales of addiction, embezzlement, and scandal.

I'm glad I read this book. There is so much more to the 90-year history of Chateau Marmont than scandals. Shawn Levy tells the story of the Marmont from it's construction as upscale apartments in 1929, the conversion to a hotel in 1939, and its operations, owners, and history clear up to the present day. I had to read this book in small sections. There is a lot of information and references. I read a chapter at a time and looked up many of the Hollywood stars, films, and events Levy mentions. So much history!

The book is a nonfiction history of the famous hotel, not an in-depth look at scandals or Hollywood gossip.  I like the fact that the book doesn't dwell on famous scandals, but gives the complete history of the famous hotel from it's glamorous years to falling into disrepair to its refurbishment in recent years.

Interesting read!

Shawn Levy has written several other books on Hollywood including biographies of Paul Newman, The Rat Pack, Robert De Niro and Jerry Lewis. I'm definitely interested in reading more of his books. Levy definitely did an incredible amount of research to write this history of Chateau Marmont. He presented the facts in an interesting manner, telling the overall story not just the famous scandals. That fact makes me want to read the biographies he has written simply because I can trust him to write about all aspects of the actors, not just gossip. I will definitely be reading more by this author!

**I voluntarily read an advance readers copy of this book from DoubleDay Books via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: I moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation

I Moved to Los Angeles to Work in Animation
Author: Natalie Nourigat

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I have several friends who dream of getting a break and finding a dream job in films or animation. Either field is a daunting and often completely intimidating prospect....most never get a call-back or an interview. When I got offered a review copy of Natalie Nourigat's graphic  novel about her start in animation, I jumped on the chance to read it. I was so curious about how animation careers work and how people get started.

Natalie illustrates and tells her story with humor and honesty. She talks about the pros and cons of the industry, moving to LA, and the costs, work loads and pitfalls. She even talks about what it was like to move to a very large city to live on her own for the first time. She had to learn how to deal with being lonely sometimes, and how to start getting out and making her life more than drive to work, work, drive home, sleep, repeat. It's a lesson we all have to learn....but it's a bit rougher alone in a huge metro area.

This book could be a very important learning tool for art school students and those truly interested in pursuing animation as a career. Natalie talks openly about how much effort, time and patience was required for her to get through the interview process and snag a job.

I love the artwork! It's simple, understated and perfect for this book's purpose. Her words are straight-forward and honest. She talks openly about what has been good and bad about her career choice, LA and her start in a very competitive (but awesomely creative) career.

Full stars from me. I'm not an art student (I totally lack the talent, but love to be cheerleader for anyone I meet who does have artistic talent), but I found the information incredibly interesting. It made me think about all the people, work and creativity behind some of the animated movies and shows I love! So much time, effort and creativity go into each project!

**I received a free review copy of this graphic novel from Boom! Studios. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. Congrats on the awesome job, Natalie! You rock!)

REVIEW: Into the Drowning Deep

Into the Drowning Deep
Author: Mira Grant

Seven years ago a ship sailed to the Mariana Trench looking for mermaids. Imagine Network planned to make a huge amount of money off the planned mockumentary. Instead, the entire crew was lost at sea and only raw video footage showing total carnage was ever found to explain what happened.

Mermaids. They found them. And mermaids are not friendly. Mermaids are predators. Vicious predators.

And now, the entertainment company is planning a second voyage. A film crew and several scientists are going back to find out what happened and to prove mermaids exist. Imagine Entertainment wants to prove the first voyage was not a hoax. Others on the voyage have more personal reasons for joining the expedition. But the hunters just might become the hunted. Again.

I loved this book! I love a good monster story! The Mariana Trench and the Challenger Deep are fascinating for me. The deepest, darkest depth of the ocean.....nobody knows what lurks at the bottom of the Challenger Deep. Nobody has ever been that deep. Close....but not that far. It's hard for me to even imagine water 7 miles deep and even harder to imagine how many undiscovered species could exist in that much water. With modern technology, much has been discovered about the Earth's oceans. But vast areas of the oceans are still unknown and unexplored. What a great setting for a monster tale! Mermaids....legends for centuries. Not only are they real.....they will rip your face off and eat you. It makes for an exciting story!

Mira Grant is a penname for Author Seanan McGuire. This is the first book I have ever read by this author. I will definitely be reading more! She has written the Newsflesh trilogy as Mira Grant as well as the Parasitology series. As Seanan McGuire she pens several fantasy series including October Daye, Wayward Children, Ghost Roads and the InCryptid series.

I listened to the audiobook version of this story. Narrated by Christine Lakin, the audio is just over 17 hours long. Lakin reads at a nice, even speed with a pleasant voice. I have hearing loss, but was easily able to hear and understand this entire book. Very enjoyable listen!

REVIEW: Coffee Treacle Murder

Coffee Treacle Murder
Author: Susan Gillard

Coffee Treacle Murder is the 24th book in the Donut Hole cozy mystery series.

Geoff Lawless is in trouble....again. Heather Shepherd and her bestie Amy are on the case after a man is attacked and seriously injured by a rock hard fudge ball in Geoff's doughnut shop. Geoff's doughnuts are infamously bad....and he is noticeably absent following the attack on Billy Bolde. The girls skillfully juggle responsibilities at Heather's shop, Donut Delights (where the doughnuts are actually awesome and tasty, unlike Geoff's) and sleuthing on the side. Heather actually wants to clear Geoff's name. He is her competition (sort of)and nemesis, but she has grown a bit fond of him and doesn't want to see him charged with a murder he didn't commit.

I have a soft place in my heart for this self-published series. The first book in the Donut Hole Mystery series was the first book I downloaded to my first Kindle. So I'm working my way through all the books, determined to read the entire series. It might take me awhile....there are 60 books in the Donut Hole Mystery series. Don't let that put you off trying the series....the books are short, easy reads. There is also a spin-off series, the Oceanside Cozy Mystery series, which has 58 books. I have a lot of reading to do!

I do like this series. I enjoy the doughnut background theme -- each story works in a new doughnut flavor from Donut Delights and has a pretty, frosted doughnut on the cover. And the characters are fun and quirky. The writing at times is a bit clunky, and there are some editing issues in places. But, for the most part, these are fun-to-read, light cozy mysteries. No sex. No cussing. No spurting blood. Simple plots. Nothing too extreme. I'm willing to overlook some minor editing and writing problems. This was my first ebook, indy cozy series after all.....you never abandon the first! :) I'm here for the duration. I might be reading for a long time! I have 36 books to go in this series....and then another 58 Oceanside books! That's a lot of doughnuts!

I'm not really into sweets since I can't have much sugar in my diet. So I will admit that I had to look up "treacle'' -- Molasses! A coffee/espresso and molasses flavored doughnut sounds really yummy!

All in all, a cute read. The murder weapon forced me to suspend reality just a bit.....but hey....why not. Geoff's doughnuts are really bad....but they make great murder weapons! Maybe he should make fudge bullets?

Both series are available to read for free with Kindle Unlimited. They are also available for purchase, and in paperback format. Give the series a try -- literary doughnuts have no calories! :)

REVIEW: Frightening Phantoms and Haunted Habitats

Frightening Phantoms and Haunted Habitats
Author: Phyllis Rayburn Emert

I love weird stories....strange mysteries, ghostly tales, spooky legends....love them all! I especially love spooky story anthologies written for kids. The tales are slightly scary without spurting blood and guts, cussing, sex, drugs, etc. Scary...but not disturbing or traumatizing. A bit of spooky brain candy. :)

Phillis Rayburn Emert wrote several spooky story collections for middle grade kids. UFOs, hauntings, legends about ships, planes and scary places, unsolved mysteries....all sorts of weirdness to choose from! The stories are interesting, varied and short. Perfect for enticing reluctant readers (and grandmas who like to read creepy tales!).

Frightening Phantoms and Haunted Habitats collects 26 stories. Each is about 3-4 pages long. Easy reading length. There are also some great black and white illustrations by Jael. The drawings really make the stories pop. The front cover art is awesome as well.

I enjoyed this fun story collection. My favorite tale is one from Oxenby, England about a black cat who is a messenger of death. Creepy cool! The stories are varied, but all have a supernatural, lightly scary theme. All are middle grade appropriate. The book includes a glossary and bibliography.

Very enjoyable, quick read. I will definitely be reading more of the author's books!

REVIEW: The Moor

The Moor
Author: Sam Haysom

Since 1951, teenagers have been going missing in Rutmoor National Park. Kids on school outings, campers, hikers....gone. Usually without a trace. Matt was on a trip where two of his friends disappeared. Only he and two others know the truth about what happened that day....the horrible truth.

I enjoyed the suspense of this story. It builds slowly and then the truth jumps out. When I realized what was going on...yikes! The ending caught me by surprise. Nice touch! I will definitely be looking behind me next time I go camping or hiking in the woods. I never sleep very well when tent camping. Anything could be out there in the dark.....animals, weirdos.....anything.

Nice, quick creepy read. This is Sam Haysom's debut novel. Definitely willing to read more by this author. This first book is well-written and absolutely creepy! I found it interesting that publication of this book was financed (at least in part) by donations received through a crowdfunding site. I see this as an interesting trend, and the author listed his patrons at the front of the book. Haysom added info about the site as well. Authors share a blurb about their book and visitors to the site can donate towards its publication if they choose. When enough sponsors are received to publish the book, it is released in a special sponsors edition, plus a regular edition and ebook formats. Interesting concept. Sponsorship sites are nothing new. Patreon and similar sites have been around for awhile. I like the basic concept because it helps authors get their work published. I just hate the constant posts, DM spam, and sponsorship begging from authors (and even podcasters).  But....I'm chasing rabbits a bit. This is a book review....back on track!

Great book! I hope to read more by this author!

**I voluntarily read a review copy of this book from Unbound Digital via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.**

REVIEW: What Makes a Bird a Bird?

What Makes a Bird a Bird?
Author: Andi Cann

I just love this series for young kids! As a grandma and former home-school teacher, I'm always on the lookout for educational books for children. This series combines age-appropriate science facts with great full-color photos and illustrations.

Bucky and his dog pal, Bingo are learning what makes birds special in What Makes a Bird a Bird. The book is geared toward preschool and early elementary age kids. Younger children might not understand the science facts....but the full color photos of birds would definitely keep their attention! This book uses photos, age appropriate questions and facts to help kids learn about birds. Bucky and Bingo learn that while birds share some characteristics with other types of animals there is one special thing that sets them apart -- feathers!

I love the front cover of this book! The little duck is so cute! :) Definitely eye-catching!

Other books in this series are: What Makes a Bug a Bug, What Makes a Fish a Fish and What makes a Mammal a Mammal. Great books!

This would be a fun book to read with small children before a walk outside or a trip to the zoo. Then play a game pointing out birds and non-birds! :)