Category: Book News

BOOK NEWS: July 31, 2018

BOOK NEWS: July 31, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

Believe it or not, we are in back-to-school mode here with area schools starting up in the next week or two. Some kids are back in classes today! It seems too soon! If the calendar says JULY it should still be summer vacation. Fight back with some new “summer reading” books from the ones releasing this week.

Books for Kids

 

Awesome! (August 1) – Marvin the moose and Woody the beaver are best friends, but when Marvin does something awesome it drives a wedge between the friends. I’ll be reviewing this one next week.
Hello Fall! – Get excited about fall with this new picture book. Looks adorable! I love fall.
Josephine Baker AND Mother Teresa – New picture books from the Little People Big Dreams series. This series is expanding into games and board books, and I am all over all of it!
The Three Little Superpigs – The Superpigs have defeated the Big Bad Wolf, but he breaks out of prison and sets a trap for them. This is a must-read for me!
Rocket the Brave! – Rocket is having fun chasing a butterfly when the butterfly disappears into the woods. Is Rocket brave enough to follow? I love Rocket from his previous books. This Early Reader looks adorable for kids looking for a new Rocket story.
The Haunted Halls – Book 3 in the Peachy and Keen series where the characters try to figure out if there are real ghosts wandering around their school’s Halloween celebration. This transitional chapter book series looks adorable!
Lullaby Lake – Book 4 in the Last  Firehawk series from Scholastic Branches. This is a fantasy series complete with a quest for the Ember Stone.
Meet Yasmin (August 1) – First in a new series about a little girl with a big imagination. This looks cute.
Super Rabbit Boy Blasts Off – Book 5 in the Press Start science fiction series from Scholastic Branches.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Giganta’s Colossal Double-Cross (August 1) – I love the DC books that come from Capstone – the illustrations are my idea of PERFECT. In this book, Wonder Woman discovers that Giganta may be on her side against Grodd.
The Griffin’s Feather – Dragon Rider book 2. In order to save the race of pegasi, a boy tries find a griffin feather. But griffins are some of the fiercest creatures in the world. This book sounds like something I would love. I will have to add this series to my list.
Making Friends (Graphic Novel) – Middle school raises new challenges for the main character so she creates a perfect best friend using a magical sketchbook.
The Principal Strikes Back – Book 6 in the Jarrett Krosoczka Jedi Academy series (originally written by Jeffrey Brown). Things at the Academy have been weird since last year’s security breech. They now have a droid for a principal and things aren’t as they seem. This is a fantastic series!
The Ultimate Weapon (You Choose Justice League) (August 1) – Another Justice League book from Capstone. This one uses a You Choose format which is so fun for kids!
Greek Mythology (Weird But True Know-It-All) – a nonfiction reference for kids about Greek Mythology
In the French Kitchen with Kids: Easy, Every-day Dishes for the Whole Family to Make and Enjoy – Great for kids who love to cook and teens and adults studying French and looking for some examples of the culture.
The Pacific Islands: A Moana Discovery Book – Kids can join the characters of the movie Moana and explore the Pacific Islands as Disney expands their nonfiction line with tie-ins from favorite movies.
The Cheerleaders – After multiple deaths on the squad, the Sunnybrook High cheer team disbanded. Five years later the town wants to remember the girls, but the sister of the last girl to die isn’t sure revisiting those days is a good idea. I have already requested this one from the library!
The Darkest Legacy – The latest in the Darkest Minds series, from Suzume’s perspective. I’ve only read the first two books (Fantastic!) so I need to get caught up so I can read this one. I’m looking forward to checking out the movie in August with my teen.
Grace and Fury – In a world where women have no rights one sister is selected by the heir to the throne while her sister (who was groomed for that role) is thrown into prison. This sounds twisty and complicated and exactly the sort of story I love. I’ll be reviewing this one in August.
Heart of Thorns – A young woman discovers she possess the very magic she has sworn to eliminate from her world. Yep, this one too.
If Only – A teen finds herself dumped and pregnant, searching for what path she wants to take into her future. Sixteen years later her daughter wonders what happened to the birth mother who placed her for adoption and then disappeared when she was one year old. I have requested this one from the library, too.
The Letting Go – A teen puts up walls to keep others out because anyone who gets close to her is murdered. But death follows her to her boarding school. I SOOOO want to know what happens in this book!
So Glad to Meet You – When two teens commit suicide, their younger siblings are forever linked together by tragedy. When one of the teens finds their siblings’ bucket list, she reconnects with the one person who understands her grief. WOW! What a great week for YA books! I’ll be reviewing this one later this week.

Books for Adults

Against the Claw – Book 2 in the Lobster Shack Mystery series. In this one, a woman finds a body in the bay when she is helping her family on the lobster boat. (Mass Market Paperback*)
Death Over Easy – Book 5 in the Country Store Mystery series. In this one, a musician in a bluegrass festival is killed.(Mass Market Paperback*)
A Dark and Twisting Path – Book 3 in the Writer’s Apprentice Mystery series, one of my favorite series! I pre-ordered this book months ago. If you love mysteries, check this series out! (Mass Market Paperback*)
A Duke by Default – Book 2 in the Reluctant Royals series. I read book one, A Princess in Theory, on vacation this summer and it was delightful! I’m looking forward to reading this one and getting more of Portia’s story. (Mass Market Paperback*)
Knot My Sister’s Keeper – Book 6 in the Quilting Mystery series. A woman and her newly-discovered half sister team up to find out what happened to their father. (Mass Market Paperback*)
Midnight Snacks Are Murder – Book 2 in the Poppy McAllister Mystery series. I adored book one, Class Reunions Are Murder, so I will absolutely be reading book two! (Mass Market Paperback*)
Murder at Ochre Court – Book 6 in the Gilded Newport Mystery series about a society reporter in 1898. I haven’t read any of these, but I’d like to give the first book a try. (Hardcover*)
Murder on Memory Lake – First in a new series about a woman who inherits a fortune and a secret lake house but finds a dead body when she arrives. I love trying new series, and the cover of this one makes me want to read it on vacation. That looks so restful (well, without the murder part). (Mass Market Paperback*)
Murder, She Reported (ebook) – A socialite tries to break free of expectations by getting a job at a newspaper in 1938 but finds herself in the middle of a scandal. This sounds terrific! (E-book pricing – $5 at the time of this writing)
Poppy Harmon Investigates – First in the Desert Flowers Mystery series. A widowed retiree opens her own private detective business. I am curious about this series, but I tried one of the author’s other books once and did not care for the main character at all. So, I’ll be trying this one from the library to see how this new character and I click. (Hardcover*)
Purrder She Wrote – Book 2 in the Cat Cafe Mystery series. A new cafe where diners can socialize with cats and even adopt one is the scene of drama that may have led to murder. I’d like to try this series out. (Mass Market Paperback*)
S’more Murders – Book 5 in the Five-Ingredient Mystery series. A guest disappears at a murder mystery party on a yacht. I haven’t read any books in this series – yet. (Mass Market Paperback*)
The Biggest Win: Pro Football Players Tackle Faith – Six Christians from the 2017 Philadelphia Eagles Super Bowl team share the stories of their lives and faith. (Trade Paperback*)
The Come Back Effect: How Hospitality Can Compel Your Church’s Guests to Return – For churches, businesses and ministries. This explores the keys to getting first time visitors to return. (Trade Paperback*)
The Family Bible Devotional: Stories from the Bible to Help Kids and Parents Engage and Love Scripture – I’ll be reviewing this one in a few weeks. (Trade Paperback*)

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: July 24, 2018

BOOK NEWS: July 24, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

It’s another small week for new books. But while we might be low on quantity, we have some great quality! Here are some of the books releasing this week.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Babymouse Miss Communication – Book 2 in the Babymouse Tales from the Locker series about graphic novel star Babymouse in middle school.  This one focuses on Babymouse’s quest to get a cell phone.
The Knight’s Armor – Book 3 in the Ministry of the SUITS series about a covert agency for Strange, Unusual, and Impossible Things and the kids who work for them. This series sounds perfect for me, so I need to get ahold of all three of these books asap.
Pizzasaurus Rex – A bullied genius finds a way to pull Pizzasaurus Rex – a party-dinosaur – into our universe in this new graphic novel for kids. This looks completely over the top and awesome!
The Winner Is – The third and final book in the Next Best Junior Chef series about the last two kids in the competition.
Theodore Roosevelt (Action Presidents) – Book 3 in the Action Presidents series of graphic novels introducing kids to historic individuals in a new format.
The Future Will Be BS Free – A group of teens use a souped up lie-detector to reveal government corruption. The kids are on the run and those in power want the device and won’t hesitate to kill to get it. I will be reviewing this one later this week.

Books for Adults

Star Wars Thrawn Alliances – Grand Admiral Thrawn teams up with Darth Vader to investigate a disturbance in the Force for the Emperor. But this isn’t the first time these two men have fought side by side. My husband loved the first Thrawn book, and I know this one is on his must-buy list. The story for this one makes me want to go back and read the first one so I can dig into this one, soon.

BOOK NEWS: July 17, 2018

BOOK NEWS: July 17, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

I find myself missing spring – we never really had one. Right now it is hotter than blazes, and I just want to curl up under a ceiling fan with a book and pray that fall doesn’t skip us too.  If you want that too, here are some books releasing this week to keep you company while you wait out the heat wave.

Books for Kids

Pass Go and Collect $200: The Real Story of How Monopoly Was Invented – This picture book detailing the history of the popular board game Monopoly looks fantastic!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Electric Boogerloo – Book 2 in the I Am Fartacus series is about a group of misfits trying to track down a missing school mascot. I love both the MAX and MIX series from Aladdin for middle grade readers. They are great stories.
The Game Masters of Garden Place – A group of kids playing an RPG (role playing game, like Dungeons and Dragons) find their characters have come to life. This was SO fun! I’ll be reviewing this one tomorrow.
Star Wars Adventures Vol 3: Endangered (Graphic Novel) – This story includes a story about Rose Tico from Star Wars The Last Jedi as well as a young Anakin Skywalker and Ezra Bridger from Star Wars Rebels.
My Family Divided: One Girl’s Journey  of Home, Loss and Hope – If you have been tracking the immigration crisis at the border and you have wondered how to talk about it with kids, check out this book. I haven’t read it – or the original book for adults – yet, but this is on my list. This is the true story of the author who was separated from her parents who were undocumented immigrants.
Like Never and Always – After four teens are in a car accident, one wakes up in the body of one of the others, discovering some dark secrets about the girl’s life. This sounds fascinating!

Books for Adults

Bad Girls (Graphic Novel) – Three women have 12 hours to get out of Cuba with six million dollars in 1958. Sounds like a thrilling edge-of-your-seat story. (Hardcover*)
Heart Land – After trying to make it in the fashion industry in New York, a young woman has to move back home to Iowa until she can scrape enough money together to go back. When she redesigns a vintage dress from a flea market and sells it for $200, she has her ticket back to the Big Apple. But her heart may be getting attached to Iowa. This sounds lovely.  (Trade paperback*)
Kill the Farm Boy: The Tales of Pell – An unlikely farm boy is off to rescue the princess in a Monty Python-esque story. Of course I am reading this one! I’ll be diving into it this week so I can review it next week. Be sure to come back and check out the review. (Hardcover*)
Maze Master – Two students are trying to find their missing brilliant professor who might the be only one who can stop a pandemic level virus. This sounds like the sort of thriller that will be hard to put down once you start reading. (Hardcover*)
Rescued – Book 17 in the fantastic Andy Carpenter series finds Andy and the team trying to defend a guy accused of murder who says it was self-defense. But there’s no sign of another weapon. The whole case may hinge on the smallest of clues. I loved this one and will be reviewing it in August. (Hardcover*)
Am I Enough? Embracing the Truth of Who You Are – A new book for Christian readers about finding your identity in Christ. I love books like this! (Trade paperback*)
Set Phasers to Teach! Star Trek in Research and Teaching (July 21) – This new book looks at the influence of the Star Trek universe on everyday technology and a wide variety of disciplines. I would love to read this one! (Academic Title*)

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: July 10, 2018

BOOK NEWS: July 10, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

How’s your summer reading going? Frankly, I’ve only finished two of my six summer challenge books, I have a backlog of library books (both physical and electronic), and I bought 8 new books for vacation. There are truly too many books and not enough time! Here are some new books releasing this week that you might want to add to your personal TBR list.

Books for Kids

A Place for Pluto (July 13) – Pluto is shocked when he is kicked out of the group of recognized planets and goes off to find where he belongs. I love the whole idea of this. Looking forward to this one.
Princess and the Pit Stop – A mashup of fairy tales and auto racing from Tom Angleberger (author of the terrific Origami Yoda series) and Dan Santat. This is a must read for me.
Sterling, Best Dog Ever – A dog looking for a home decides to settle for being the best FORK ever and wanders into a silverware factory. When a family finds the dog in their order, needless to say, they are surprised. This looks adorable!
That Bear Can’t Babysit – Bear isn’t the babysitter the rabbits had in mind to watch their seven little ones, but he is the only one who shows up. Yes, please. I would read any and all of these new picture books out this week!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Basque Dragon – Book 2 in the Unicorn Rescue Society about a secret group of adventurers charged with protecting mythical creatures. There are a few series out now with a similar premise, and they are a lot of fun. I have book one from this series on my summer reading TBR list. Book three releases later this fall.
A Hint of Hydra – Book 2 in the Mystic Cooking Chronicles series about a kid chef specializing in monster cuisine. I have book one in this series on my library wish list. Sounds like fun!
My Year in the Middle – In Lu’s classroom in 1970,  the white kids sit on one side of her classroom and the black kids sit on the other side. Lu bridges the gap in the middle. As her friendships start to change as Lu and her peers get older, she wants to branch out beyond the racial divides of her school. This would be a fascinating story.
I’m Not Missing – A teen who was abandoned by her mother found connection with a friend who didn’t let her lack of a mother define her. But when that friend disappears, the teen is left with a lot of questions. I’m curious about this one.
Notes from My Captivity – A teen who longs to get away to college and become a journalist heads to Siberia to cover a story, but the story is not at all what she expected. This is one of my top choices for this week.
The Supervillain and Me – A teen with a superhero brother and an insiders take on the heroes is rescued by a new supervillain, and he tells her the hero world is not at all what she thinks it is. This is at the top of my list for the week.

Books for Adults

The Book in Room 316 – Four different individuals pass through Room 316 at the Markham Hotel, each one looking for comfort and answers to the trials of life. This is on my list as well. (Trade Paperback*)
A Brush with Death – First book in the new Susie Mahl Mystery series. Looking forward to checking this one out. (Trade Paperback*)
Clock Dance – An elderly woman receives a call from a stranger and flies across the country to take care of a young woman and her child. This one piques my curiosity. It’s been getting a lot of positive press in pre-release. I hope it lives up to the hype. I have this one on hold already at the library. (Hardcover*)
The Con Artist – An illustrated mystery that takes place at San Diego Comic Con. Yep, sign me up for this one! (Trade Paperback*)
European Travel for the Monstrous Gentlewoman – Book 2 of the Extraordinary Adventures of the Athena Club series about figures from science fiction and horror classics coming together to solve crimes. This time the daughters of literature’s mad scientists are off to rescue one of their own. This is a fascinating premise! I have book one on my library wish list. (Hardcover*)
Jedi the Last – Star Wars The Last Jedi in Shakespearean form. These are small but amusing books. Great gifts for Star Wars fans or collectors of the other books in the series. (Hardcover – $15ish)
Live and Let Chai – First in the Seaside Café Mystery series about the owner of an iced tea shop and café who is suspected of poisoning a grumpy customer. I love trying new mystery series! (Mass Market Paperback)
Poisoned Pages – Book 12 in the Booktown Mystery series. This time someone dies at Tricia’s home at a party where she prepared all the food. This is a series I have lost track of. I know I started it. I would love to get back to it. (Hardcover*)
Shelved Under Murder – Book 2 in the fabulous Blue Ridge Library Mystery series. I’ll be reviewing this one here Wednesday. (Hardcover*)
A Souffle of Suspicion – Book 2 in the French Bistro Mystery series. This time a festival organizer is found dead in her sister’s kitchen. I’d love to dig into the first book in this series. (Hardcover*)
When We Found Home – A woman discovers siblings she never knew she had when they all move into the family home with their mutual grandfather. I already have this on hold from the library, too. (Hardcover*)
The Fall of Wisconsin: The Conservative Conquest of a Progressive Bastion and the Future of American Politics – The Wisconsin I grew up in and the one I see today in politics don’t have a lot in common. I am interested in reading this to dig into some of that history a little. The author’s bias is evident in the title. I’m curious to see how balanced his research is. (Hardcover*)
Made Like Martha: Good News for the Woman Who Gets Things Done – I love everything about this title and premise. I’ll be reviewing this one later this summer. (Trade Paperback*)
Prayers of My Heart: A Personal Prayer Journal – This is a structured journal to track your prayer requests and your prayer life. I would like to see this in person before I decide if it would work for me. (Trade Paperback in pricing although I am not certain about the format*)
What Happens When Women Say Yes to God: Live More Fully, Love More Deeply, Experience God’s Best for You – The latest from Lysa TerKeurst, this is absolutely on my Must Read list. Looking forward to digging into this one, too (Trade Paperback*)

 

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: July 3, 2018

BOOK NEWS: July 3, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

Happy July! And for my American readers, happy Independence Day this week! If you are looking for something to read over your holiday time off, here are some suggestions from books out this week.

Books for Kids

Mabel Beecher Future Teacher (July 2) – A kindergarten student takes things into her own hands when her beloved teacher goes on maternity leave. I can’t wait to read this one!
Crayola: The Secrets of the Cool Colors and Hot Hues – This Early Reader is part of the Science of Fun Stuff series, which I adore. This and the History of Fun Stuff are both amazing series to get kids excited about history, science and nonfiction books. This one explores the science behind crayons. The history of Crayola will release later this fall.
Mr. Monkey Bakes a Cake – A banana-loving monkey bakes a cake. First in a new series. Looks adorable.
Home Again – Book 4 in this sweet transitional chapter book series. In this book, the animals try to save their home when tragedy strikes in the midst of wedding plans.
Tale of a Scaredy-Dog – Book 3 in the Bea Garcia transitional chapter book series about an artist and her canine best friend. This looks terrific!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

 

Bumblebee at Super Hero High – Book 6 in the awesome DC Super Hero High series. This book focuses on Bumblebee and a problem with the world’s honey supply.
The Door to the Lost – A new fantasy book about magical kids in a world that doesn’t trust magic – refugees with no memory of their lives before. This sounds like a book I will love.
Max’s Story – Book 4 in the Dog’s Purpose series for kids. I loved the first book in this series, Ellie’s Story. This will be perfect for kids who love animal books.
Not So Normal Norbert (July 2) – A new series kicks off from James Patterson, this one starring a rule-following kid in a dystopian version of the future. One hilarious choice gets Norbert banished to another planet where he sees that being not-so-normal can be a lot of fun. I don’t generally read Patterson’s books (I’ve read a few but none became favorites), but the premise of this one sounds fantastic.
Power Play – Book 2 in the Mrs. Smith’s Spy School for Girls series where the girls go out on their first mission. Sounds like a fun series.
Where the Watermelons Grow – A girl looks for solutions to her mother’s mental illness and her father’s frantic efforts to save the family farm. This sounds like a powerful story.
Copycat – A new teen thriller about a girl who discovers life is imitating art when a local murder fits the facts of a popular book series. This is at the top of my reading list for the week.
The Loneliest Girl in the Universe – The daughter of two astronauts finds herself orphaned and alone on a space craft. Contact with the captain of another craft coming to meet her helps with the loneliness, but their relationship uncovers information that will change everything. Yep, this is on my list, too.
Star Wars Maker Lab – 20 craft and science projects with a Star Wars theme.
Star Wars The Rebel Files – Background information on the characters and events of Star Wars.

Books for Adults

Black Chamber – This kicks off a new alternate history series where Teddy Roosevelt had a second term as president right before WWI and had the spies of Black Chamber as his allies. I’m curious about this series. I’ll be looking for this one at the library.  (Trade Paperback*)
The Calculating Stars – Book 1 in the new Lady Astronaut series about an alternate history where a meteorite wiped out most of the east coast of the United States in 1952 and accelerated efforts to colonize space. I’ll be looking for this one as well.  (Trade Paperback*)
The House at Saltwater Point – Book 2 in the Lavender Tides series about a house flipper who is searching for her missing sister. (Trade paperback*)
Italian Iced – Book 3 in the Ethnic Eats series (This actually released last week in paperback*) This is not a series I have tried, but it sounds terrific!
Killer Green Tomatoes – Book 2 in the Farm-to-Fork Mystery series by Lynn Cahoon, a writer I enjoy. I haven’t tried this series yet, but it’s on my list. (Trade Paperback*)
The Last Time I Lied – Three girls sneak out of their camp cabin, leaving the youngest roommate, Emma, behind. And they never return. Now that Emma is an adult, she returns to the newly reopened camp as a painting instructor, determined to find out what really happened to the others. This sounds terrific! (Hardcover*)
Scandal Above Stairs – Book 2 in the Kat Holloway Mystery series. This time Kat looks into some missing art work. I really enjoyed book one, and I’m eager to check out the sequel. (Trade Paperback*)
White Hot Grief Parade: A Memoir – I enjoy reading Memoirs, and this one about a girl who loses her father and finds her drama camp friends moving in to help with the grieving season sounds fascinating. (Hardcover*)
The Write Thing – YA author extraordinaire, Kwame Alexander brings teachers a resource for Writing Workshop. If I was still teaching, this would be a resource I would have pre-ordered so I could read it right away and incorporate it in my plans for the fall.

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: June 26, 2018

BOOK NEWS: June 26, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

The last Tuesday in June means lots of great books for your summer vacation! Here are some of the ones releasing this week.

Books for Kids

A Dog Named Doug – An adorable rhyming book about a dog who loves to dig!
Geraldine – A giraffe, reluctant to move and start at a new school in a new town where she is the only giraffe, finds a friend. I can’t wait to read this one!
Honeydukes Scratch and Sniff – If I had a working sense of smell, I would be more interested in this one, but I can see it appealing to a lot of Harry Potter fans!
I Am: Names of God for Little Ones (board book) – Adorable-looking board book for the youngest book lovers.
Jack B Ninja – “Jack Be Nimble” with a ninja twist. I adore books like this. They make great gifts for kids who love martial arts – or for their younger siblings.
Peg + Cat: The Eid al-Adha Adventure – Eid al-Adha is a holiday that includes practices to share with those who have less. Peg and Cat get to use their math skills to help with the fractions. I love this series!
Sir Tim Wants a Dragon (July 1) – A boy and his mom head to the pet store because he wants a pet. What pet would be perfect for a young knight? A dragon!
What If You Had an Animal Tail? – Book 6 in this fantastic series for kids! Some of my teacher friends have done amazing projects with their classes based on this series. There’s a new book coming in December, too.
Curious George in Super George! – George and his friend are off to solve a caper. This looks adorable; I love George! (hardcover early reader)
Hurricane Katrina Rescue – Book 8 in the Ranger in Time series – a series I call Magic Tree House with a dog. Perfect for kids ready for chapter books.
Mr. Wolf’s Class – A new teacher and a new fourth grade class are full of stories in this first book in a new series.
Waking the Rainbow Dragon – Book 10 in the Dragon Masters series from Scholastic Branches, my favorite line of early chapter books for kids.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

American Girl – Pearl Harbor – Book 4 in the Real Stories from My Time series from American Girl.
Harry Potter (Anniversary Covers) – I usually don’t spotlight books that are being re-released, but these are the 20th Anniversary books with all new covers. Frankly, the covers from Kazu Kibuishi are my favorites, and then the originals by Mary GrandPré. But Brian Selznick fans will want to scoop these up!
The Jamie Drake Equation – A kid whose dad is living on the International Space Station picks up a strange signal on his phone. Could it be aliens? Jamie is ready to prove he is a hero, too. I’m eager to check this one out!
The Language of Spells – A girl and a dragon form an unusual partnership as they go looking for the dragons that vanished from Vienna around WWII. I LOVE a good dragon book, so I am eager to give this one a try.
Strays Like Us – A girl in foster care longs to rescue the dog next door from his mean owner. But she knows not to get too attached to anything – the dog, her foster mom, or a friend from school. This sounds like a book I will love!
Wings of Fire – The Lost Continent – Book 11 in this outstanding series about dragons kicks off a new five-book arc. I have had this pre-ordered for months! I just have to wait a little longer and it will be here. I will drop everything to read this one.
The Evolution of Claire – For teen fans of Jurassic World comes a prequel that fills in the backstory of Claire Dearing.
The Fragile Ordinary – Set in Scotland this is a story of a girl who never feels truly herself, the bad boy from America who takes the school by storm, and what happens when these two opposite personalities have to work together.
Learning to Breathe – A sixteen-year-old girl struggles to hide a pregnancy from the aunt who is just itching to throw her out into the streets. This is the sort of hook that leaves me needing to know more. This is on my list.
My Plain Jane –  A new take on the classic Jane Eyre. I know I read Jane Eyre as a teen, but I don’t remember it at all. This twisty version sounds terrific and might just get me to re-read the original.
Now You See Her – A tennis player finds herself in the body of her rival after a near-abduction and an accident. I was completely taken in by the full premise of this. It’s a must read for me.
Wild Blue Wonder – In June it was all camping and wild blueberries and love. But by winter, after the accident, the magic of summer has all but disappeared. Yep, I’ll be reading this one, too! Can’t let a mysterious “accident” get thrown out there and not read the book for the details.
Your Destination Is on the Left – An artist who has lived in an RV on the road with her family all her life takes a risk on an internship that might help propel her into the future. But when problems arise for her family, she’ll have to decide which life she wants to hold onto. Yes, that’s going on the list, too.

Books for Adults

Buried in Books – Book 12 in the Bibliophile mystery series. The bride-to-be is surprised when two feuding friends show up at her bridal shower. But they seem to have put the past behind them. When one is later killed, the soon-to-be bride needs to find answers so her special day can go off without a hitch. I have not kept up with this series, but this particular story sounds like one I would enjoy.  (Hardcover*)
Claws of Death – Book 2 in the Cat Lady mystery series after Escape Claws. A retired actress who adopts some kittens from Lara’s shelter is the prime suspect in a murder. I enjoyed the first book in the series, and I’m eager to see how this second one stacks up. (It looks like this series is primarily for e-readers, but there is a Trade Paperback* option.)
Death by Espresso – Book 6 in the Bookstore Cafe mystery series. This is another wedding-themed story. This time, the bride-to-be’s snobby mother has brought in her own wedding planner who winds up dead. This is not a series I have tried, but now I am curious to give it a go. (Mass Market Paperback*)
Kappy King and the Pickle Kaper – Book 2 in the Kappy King Amish mystery series. This time, a buggy accident starts to look like murder. I have book one on my wish list already – and a third book is coming out in December. I need to get reading on this one. (Trade Paperback*)
A Lady’s Guide to Etiquette and Murder – First in a new series about the widowed Countess of Harleigh who is trying to keep the details of her husband’s indiscretions to herself but she is a suspect in his death. I requested this one from the library early in June, and it will be hitting my e-reader tomorrow! I can’t wait! (Hardcover*)
Portrait of a Sister – Another Amish story, a standalone this time. Twin sisters living vastly different lives as one left the Amish community and the other stayed behind. Katie is determined to do the “right” thing – forget her artistic gifts which are a sin and marry the man who has been chosen for her. But her sister’s invitation to spend some time in New York opens up new ideas in Katie’s heart and mind. I’m only a few chapters into this one, but I am hooked already! (Trade Paperback*)
Staged 4 Murder – Book 3 in the Sophie Kimball mystery series. Private investigator Sophie gets drawn into a real life Agatha Christie mystery when an actor in a production of “The Mousetrap“ is killed. (Mass Market Paperback*)
Till Death Do Us Tart – Book 8 in the Bakeshop Mystery series. I’ll be reviewing this one later this summer. (Mass Market Paperback*)
To Catch a Latte – A new e-book mystery from one of my favorite authors, Jenn McKinlay. A cafe owner is suspected of money laundering and her sexy FBI agent tenant is looking into the case. I’ve already pre-ordered this one. (E-book only)
Fake News, Propaganda, and Plain Old Lies: How to Find Trustworthy Information in the Digital Age (June 29) – This is a must read for me. (Hardcover*)
White Fragility: Why It’s So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism – I have this one on my list, too. (Trade Paperback*)

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: June 19, 2018

BOOK NEWS: June 19, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

Summer marches on, but at least there are plenty of books to keep us busy! Here are some of the new books releasing this week:

Books for Kids

Cece Loves Science – Science-minded Cece and her best friend run experiments to see if Cece’s dog will eat his vegetables. I love picture books that highlight science and math in everyday stories. This would be great for classroom use.
We Don’t Eat Our Classmates – The author of the fabulous Mother Bruce series brings us a new story about a little T-Rex trying to make friends at school. This is a must read for me!
Counting on Katherine: How Katherine Johnson Saved Apollo 13 – A picture book biography of Katherine Johnson, one of the women mathematicians highlighted in the movie (and books) Hidden Figures. This would be a must-have if I was still teaching!
Look at Me: How to Attract Attention in the Animal World – I don’t think you can go wrong with an animal book when it comes to material for kids. Add the fact that this is written by science writers Steve Jenkins and Robin Page, and this becomes a must-buy, too.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Everything I Know About You – On a school trip to DC, a group of seventh grade friends are partnered with some of their sworn enemies. But one of the girls suspects her roommate may have an eating disorder. Is she willing to risk humiliation to seek help for a girl she doesn’t even like? This is high on my list for this week. Sounds like the sort of middle grade story I enjoy.
The Jigsaw Jungle – A girl starts compiling a scrapbook to solve the mystery of her missing father. I already have this one in my Amazon cart. [If only I had a budget that would allow me to buy all the books I want to read….]
Kid Normal – A normal kid stumbles into a school for superheroes. I really got a kick out of this one. I’ll be reviewing this later this summer.
The Selkie of San Francisco – Book 2 in the Sam London Adventures series after Guardians of the Gryphon’s Claw about a kid who discovers mythical creatures living in our national parks. I enjoyed the first book, and this second one sounds great, too!
Takedown – A boy and a girl who love wrestling deal with the fall out of folks who don’t think a girl should wrestle and what happens when partners become opponents. This has been getting great buzz for months. I’m looking forward to checking this one out.
Dinosaurs, Dodos and Woolly Mammoths (My Weird School Fast Facts) – The latest nonfiction book from My Weird School author Dan Gutman.
What Is Climate Change? AND What Is the Constitution? – The latest books from the folks who first brought us the Who Was series of biographies feel very timely for this season in our culture!
Almost Impossible – A girl spending her first summer in America meets a boy who is determined to make it unforgettable. I’ll be reviewing this one later this week.
Not the Girls You’re Looking For – A story of a teen girl who, among other things, makes a scene at a party (she totally did not mean to make that cute guy almost drown) and also at Ramadan. She’s sure she and her friends can make the best of whatever mistakes she might make, but sometimes small-looking things become big things. Looking forward to checking this one out, too.

Books for Adults

Murder Made to Order – Book 2 in the All-Day Breakfast Cafe Mystery series about a New York transplant in Florida who may lose her diner due to a zoning issue. Then the town council president – the one taking a hard line on the zoning issue  – is found dead. I have book one of this series on my Kindle wish list. (It feels like maybe this series is primarily for e-readers, but a trade paperback* version is also available.)
Perfect Couple – Just before the wedding event of the season in Nantucket, a body is found in the harbor, and everyone in the wedding is a suspect. I’ve not read any of the author’s work before, but this particular mystery sounds fantastic! (Hardcover*)
#NeverAgain: A New Generation Draws the Line – Two survivors (siblings) of the Parkland, Florida school shooting (February 14, 2018) speak out in an effort to bring the epidemic of school shootings to a close. I definitely will be reading this one!
Uncensored: My Life and Uncomfortable Conversations at the Intersection of Black and White America – This young man shares his personal story which has led him to be a crusader for free speech. I don’t know much about the author, Zachary Wood, but I am curious to check out his story.
*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: June 12, 2018

BOOK NEWS: June 12, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

Welcome to another week of new books! It’s stunning to think of the sheer volume of books releasing each month, on top of the ones already out in the world. Sometimes it can get overwhelming, but I just can’t squelch the excitement of new stories being discovered week after week. Here are some of the books releasing this week:

Books for Kids

Don’t Eat That – A bear is trying to find just the right snack to quiet his rumbling tummy. This looks adorable.
Fruit Bowl – Tomato wants to join the rest of the fruits in the fruit bowl. This is the picture book I am most excited about this week – and there are a lot of fantastic picture books on the list!
Play – Little Bobo is supposed to be getting ready for bed, but he would rather play with the other animals. We read Hug to my son when he was little along with the Teddy and Freddy books, and they became family favorites. I’m looking forward to seeing this latest book in person.
Pretty Kitty – A counting book about a man who finds a kitty on his doorstep. Then there are two kitties. So excited about this one.
Stegothesaurus – From the author of Mustache Baby and Mustache Baby Meets His Match comes a new book about a dinosaur who loves words. Yes, please!
Nothing Stopped Sophie: The Story of Unshakable Mathematician Sophie Germain – A picture book biography of an 18th century mathematician who overcame many obstacles to do the work that she loved. Sounds fantastic! I adore picture book biographies, especially of people I’ve not heard of before.
Silverlake Art Show – Book 13 in the Adventures of Sophie Mouse series for kids ready for chapter books. I loved this series so much, I put the books into the school library, and my students loved them too. This time Sophie decides to host an art show. If I was still teaching, this would already be in my Amazon cart for school books.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

The Legend of Greg: An Epic Series of Failures – A boy who loves being ordinary discovers he is anything but when he finds out he is a Dwarf. He is whisked away to the underground land of Dwarves (under Chicago) and discovers a history of his kind filled with failures. But all of that may be about to change. This looks like just the sort of fantasy book I adore. I’ll be looking for this one!
The Unforgettable Guinevere St. Clair – A girl and her family move to Iowa hoping the familiar surroundings will aid her mother in getting her memories back. This was lovely and heartbreaking. I’ll be reviewing this one later this summer.
The Wizard’s Dog Fetches the Grail – Book 2 in the Wizard’s Dog series which has been compared to the delightful Hero’s Guide to Saving Your Kingdom. In this book, Nosewise the dog, his pack, his Wizard, Merlin, and others are on the hunt for the Holy Grail. I have book one in this series on my library list because this looks fantastic!
Science Comics – Rockets: Defying Gravity – The latest science-based graphic novel in this series focuses on Rockets
All That I Can Fix – A young man from the family that everyone in town talks about shares his story of family, friends and the exotic zoo animals that have been set loose in his town. I’m curious to see how this one plays out.

Books for Adults

The Body in the Ballroom – Book 2 in the Alice Roosevelt Mysteries. Alice Roosevelt was the wild child offspring of Teddy Roosevelt. I have loved reading about her in historical references, but I haven’t yet tried this mystery series starring Alice. Book one is on my list. (Hardcover*)
Death and a Pot of Chowder – A woman discovers a sister she never knew before and the two team up to look into a murder. I love this idea of these two strangers getting to know one another while trying to find justice for someone’s murder. This is on my library list. (Hardcover*)
The Love Letter – From the author of the fantastic The Writing Desk comes another story told from two perspectives in different time periods. In this book, one perspective is from an actress in a contemporary movie based on an old love letter. The other perspective is from the Revolutionary War. I’ll be reviewing this one in a couple weeks. (Trade paperback*)
The Spook in the Stacks – Book 4 in the Lighthouse Library Mystery series. This book is about a Halloween homicide and a set of rare historical documents. I haven’t tried this series yet, but I have book one on my TBR shelves. (Hardcover*)
A Study in Treason – Book 2 in the Daughter of Sherlock Holmes series. I enjoyed book one, so book 2 is definitely on my wish list! The focus this time is on a missing treaty between England and France. (Hardcover*)
Switch and Bait – A woman running an online dating service for the most eligible bachelorettes in Washington DC swears off love for herself. In fact, she is so confident in her singleness, she’ll match a client with one of her own exes. This sounds like a fun romantic comedy. Sometimes I like to set the mysteries aside for a fun love story.
Inspired: Slaying Giants, Walking on Water, and Loving the Bible Again – I have been following Rachel Held Evans on social media for awhile, and I really like her style. I might not agree with her on everything, but she is someone I am willing to listen to and consider her perspective. I am especially looking forward to her new book on the Bible. This is already in my Amazon cart!

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: June 5, 2018

BOOK NEWS: June 5, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

Happy June! I don’t know about where you live, but where I am, I think we skipped Spring altogether. It’s toasty and humid, so I think it is best to stay inside where it is air conditioned and enjoy a good book. Here are some of the titles coming out this week:

Books for Kids

Don’t Tell – Another book that breaks the fourth wall by the author of Don’t Blink.
Neck & Neck – A giraffe who is used to being the star of the zoo faces off against a giraffe balloon. This looks hysterical.
Niblet & Ralph – Two cats become friends across a courtyard, but when each decides to go visit the other, their owners mistake them for one another. This looks adorable! Can’t wait to read this one.
Harriet Tubman – The latest in the Little People Big Dreams series. Also out this week is Georgia O’Keeffe and Jane Austen
Peanut Butter’s First Day of School – I love the creative illustrations for this whole series, which is branching into Early Readers after picture books and board books.
Buggin’Out! (Marvel Superhero Adventures) – An early chapter book starring Marvel’s Spider-Man, Ant-man and Wasp. If I was still teaching, this is a series I would have in the library. Great for kids who love superheroes and who are ready to dive into chapter books.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

 

Annie B, Made for TV – A girl with a best friend who seems to always win everything has a chance to shine in a local web show.
Breakout – The latest from the fantastic Kate Messner is told in letters, emails, and transcripts from three girls whose summer plans change when two inmates escape from the local prison. I’ll be posting a review of this one tomorrow.
Cardboard Kingdom – Graphic Novel about a group of kids who transform their neighborhood with cardboard during their summer vacation. Can’t wait to read this one!
Guardians of Taiga – Wild Rescuers – Illustrated Middle Grade book about a girl raised by wolves whose mission is to help those in the forest. This sounds like an interesting blend of fantasy and environmental conservation.
Lions and Liars – A group of boys at disciplinary camp are just starting to break down barriers and build friendships when a Category 5 hurricane moves their way. The illustrations by Dan Santat got me to put this book on my list. The story makes this a must read for me. I’ve requested this one from my local library.
The Seismic Seven – Seven kids working at Yellowstone race to save the world from a supervolcano. Sounds like a perfect action adventure story for summer reading!
Who Is Pele?
Who Was Leif Erikson?
City of Bastards – Sequel to the fantastic Royal Bastards. While Tilla and her friends are relatively safe in their new home, danger lurks around every corner and things aren’t as they appear. Tilla is attacked and a classmate is killed. Tilla is determined to find out what is really going on. I loved the first book, so this one is at the top of my reading list for the week!
Dear Rachel Maddow – A teen struggles after the death of her brother, but a class assignment to write to a famous person starts to change things. I’ll be reviewing this later this week.
Eden Conquered – The conclusion of the story started in Dividing Eden about twins fighting one another for control of their kingdom. This is the other book at the top of my reading list for this week. I’ve already requested this one from the library, too.
Invisible Ghosts – Girl-meets-boy and boy-meets-girl’s-ghost-brother. This sounds terrific. I have this on my summer reading list, too.
Jacked Up – Ghosts must be a theme this week as this book is about a boy whose parents send him to “Jesus camp” after the death of his sister, but the dead poet Jack Kerouac is following him around. After the poet convinces Nick to place his deepest secret in a locked box at the camp, the box is stolen and campers’ secrets aren’t so secret anymore. This is just quirky enough for me that I will definitely be putting this on my library list to check it out.
Little Do We Know – Former best friends can’t seem to get over their past until an accident brings secrets to light. I have this on my list, too.
Neanderthal Opens the Door to the Universe – When the school quarterback comes back from a near-death experience and says he saw God, he says God gave him a list of things to do to make their high school less awful – and that Cliff – “Neanderthal” – is supposed to help. Yep, another quirky one that is totally going on my list.
Opposite of Here – A missing person on a cruise ship? Yep, I’m going to need this mystery, too.
Save the Date – A girl hopes her older sister’s wedding will be the chance to put everything in her family back the way it was before they were selling the house and all of her older siblings moved away. But this wedding weekend is shaping up to  to be anything but perfect. Sounds like an excellent summer beach read. This is on my list, too.
What You Left Me – Two teens meet at graduation and immediately hit it off, wondering why they didn’t meet sooner. But a car accident puts one of them in a coma and the other is left trying to put the pieces together. This sounds great, too.

Books for Adults

As the Christmas Cookie Crumbles (June 8) – Book 5 in the Food Lovers’ Village series. In the heat of summer, a Christmas book sounds refreshing. I’ll be reviewing this one soon. (Trade paperback*)
Cherry Pies & Deadly Lies – First in a new Very Cherry mystery series. I’ll be reviewing this one on Wednesday this week. Come back and read all about it! (Trade paperback*)
The President Is Missing (June 4) – I am number 34 on the holds list for this book from the library. This team up between Patterson and the former President is a thriller that supposedly could only be written by someone with insider information. I’m curious to see if this one lives up to the hype. (Hardcover*)
The Solace of Water – A woman who lost her son befriends a reclusive Amish woman who in turn befriends the grieving mother’s daughter. But secrets and hurts abound in these two families and in a community divided by race and by faith. I’m really curious to check this one out. (Trade paperback*)
Star Trek Discovery: Fear Itself – An original story based on the characters in the CBS All Access Star Trek series. This is a series I’d like to try out before I read the books, but I have heard mixed reviews on it. (Trade paperback*)
The Word Is Murder – The author of this mystery puts a fictional version of himself into a story of a woman who plans her own funeral and is found murdered several hours later. This sounds dark and twisty. (Hardcover*)
Isaiah – A Bible commentary on the book of Isaiah. I just finished a study of Isaiah, and I loved it. I am eager to read this commentary and see what new insights it might provide.

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.

BOOK NEWS: May 29, 2018

BOOK NEWS: May 29, 2018

Posted on by Jaymie

Happy Memorial Day! As you rest with your family and remember those who fought for our freedom, take a look at some of the books releasing this week. ‘Tis the season for kicking off some summer reading!

Books for Kids

Spy Dad (June 1) – A girl longs for her spy dad to take a real vacation. This looks like a fun read!
Z Goes First – Fed up with being at the end of the alphabet, Z and Y try to move to the front. I love alphabet books that flip the usual narrative on its head. Sign me up for this one!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Annie’s Life in Lists – A girl who loves making lists tries to find her way in a new town and new school. This is my favorite sort of middle grade story. This is on my list for this week.
Confusion Is Nothing New – From the author of I Kill the Mockingbird (an all time favorite for me), Paul Acampora, comes this story of a girl who learns the mother she never knew has died. This is top of my list just because of who wrote it, but I am eager to dig into the story, too.
Float – From the author of Edge of Extinction (an area author for my local readers) comes a new book about a group of boys at a summer camp for kids with special abilities. I am so excited about this one. I am hoping my local bookstore will have her in for a signing this summer!
From You to Me – A teen find’s her dead sister’s bucket list and hopes that completing the list might help her with her grief. Yep, I will totally be reading this one.
Front Desk – A girl holding a lot of secrets, including the dream of being a writer, hopes to make it through the year keeping the biggest secrets from the owner of the motel where her family lives and works. There’s an immigration angle to this story that intrigues me. Early reviews have been very positive.
Grump: The (Fairly) True Story of Snow White and the Seven Dwarves – The fourth book in the Fairly True series. I adored book one, Rump. Fractured Fairy Tale loves like me should check this one out.
Most Valuable Players – Book 4 in the Rip and Red series. I reviewed book 2 in the series here. I love this series about friendship and basketball. The teacher in the book is extraordinary, and I love the autism angle in the stories as well. This is a must read for me since I have enjoyed the rest of the series.
Postcards from Venice – The latest book from the Mix line tells the story of a girl who gets to spend the summer in Italy and blog about the city of Venice. I love the whole idea of this book – the setting, the writing, all of it.
The Sphinx’s Secret – Book 2 in the Supernormal Sleuthing Service by the spectacular Gwenda Bond. This is about a kid living in a hotel for supernatural creatures. Look at that cover! This book just begs to be pulled from the shelf and read! I have to get book one asap.
Two Dogs in a Trench Coat – When two dogs notice their owner coming home from school smelling of anxiety, they have to find a way to sneak into school and check on their boy. Oh my goodness, I am so excited to read this book!
All the Little Lights – Two kids, separated by circumstances, reconnect as teens, but there is too much history between them to go back to the way they were. When one of them is suspected of causing a local tragedy, can their fragile relationship survive? Interesting premise. I’m curious to see what pulled these two apart and what threatens to pull them apart again.
Cross Fire – Book 2 in the Exo series about a future Earth that is a colony for an alien race. I have wanted to read book one since it first released.
The Disappearance of Sloan Sullivan – A thriller based around the Witness Protection Program. Sounds fascinating and mysterious.
Holly Jolly Summer – Daughter of the mayor of Christmas, Kentucky is having a summer that makes her Scroogey until she finds herself in the middle of a project to repackage the town’s failing amusement park. This sounds like the perfect Christmas in July read for summer. This is on my list!
Legendary – Book 2 in the Caraval series about a mysterious game with high stakes. I would have to read the first book to ever have a hope of understanding this second one, but for fans of book one, this will be big.
Listen to Your Heart – A reluctant girl finds herself hosting an advice podcast, but her personal feelings for one of her callers starts to impact her advice. This sounds like another perfect read for summer.

Books for Adults

Bear Witness to Murder – Book 2 in the Shamelessly Adorable Teddy Bear Mystery series. Yes, that’s really its name. A murder at the “Oktobear” Fest could ruin both the annual event and the woman who manages the Silver Bear Shop and Factory. If for no other reason than the title of this series, I must check out book one. (Trade paperback*)
Confessions of a Red Herring – First in a new series (Mass Market paperback*). As the new employee at the PR firm, a former journalist is the top suspect when the CEO is killed. She’ll have to use her journalism skills to find the real killer. I’m very excited to read this one. I’ll be reviewing it later this summer.
Crime & Punctuation – First in a new Deadly Edits mystery series (Hardcover*) about a freelance editor whose latest author turns up dead after writing a gripping “ripped from the headlines” mystery from the little town where she lives. I am so excited about this one, too! This is another book I’ll be reviewing later this summer.
The Diva Cooks Up a Storm – First in a new Domestic Diva series (Hardcover*). An event planner finally gets the chance to join her fellow foodies at an event where she isn’t in charge, but a murder ruins the event. I can’t pass up the first book in a new series, but since this is releasing in hardcover, it’s going on my library list.
Ella – Second in this series of classic fairy tales retold as Amish romances. I adored the first book in the series, Belle, and I’ll be reviewing that one and this one later this week.
Grounds for Remorse – Book 2 in the Tallie Graver Mystery series (Mass Market*). A woman who tried everything to leave the family funeral business behind her stumbles across a body in her new line of work in book one. In this book, her best friend is the top suspect in a murder. I read another funeral home family business mystery earlier this year, but I haven’t tried this one. I am adding book one to my list.
Murder with Cinnamon Scones – Book 2 in the Daisy’s Tea Garden mystery series (Mass Market*) centered around a tea shop/catering business. This series looks cute. I’ve read some of the author’s other books and enjoyed them.
Star Trek Prometheus: The Root of All Rage – The Federation flagship races to stop a war brewing between a group of fanatics and the Klingon Empire. I love a good Klingon story, so this has to go on my list.
Shelter in Place – A thriller centered around a mass shooting at a local mall. I don’t read a lot of Nora Roberts, but the description of this one – the impact of the event on different folks who were part of it, the mysterious co-conspirator – makes it a must read for me. (Hardcover*)
Too Many Crooks Spoil the Plot – First in a new series (Trade Paperback) about a pediatrician, which is unusual for cozy mysteries. In this book, the doctor agrees to watch the kids of an old friend for the weekend, but the woman is murdered. Sounds like a fascinating mystery.
Living with the Monks: What Turning Off My Phone Taught Me About Happiness, Gratitude and Focus – An entrepreneur, entertainer and best-selling author who only moves at full speed takes a self-imposed time out at a monastery. I enjoy memoirs like this where the author tries something out of their comfort zone and tells readers about the experience. I have this one on my list along with his first book, Living with a SEAL.

 

*I’ve noticed that publishers have shifted some of their new mystery series to Trade paperback (full size paperback with a sale price around $15 or $16) or hardcover (with a sale price around $25) instead of Mass Market paperback which runs around $8. When I think of it, I’ll try to note the format so readers can plan their book budgets – and trips to the library – accordingly.