"The Chicken Sisters"

"The Chicken Sisters" by KJ Dell' Antonia

How do you like your chicken?  

Whether it's pan or deep-fried, there are two places

in Merinac, Kansas, that are sure to satisfy your appetite

for succulent poultry. 

Chicken Mimi's and Chicken Frannie's are fierce rivals, dating

all the way back to the 1800s when two innovative sisters with

an intense dislike for one another, started serving delicious

meals to hungry travelers near the railroad and coal mines.

The quarrel continues today with the Moore and Pogociello

clan still offering mouth-watering chicken dinners in this 

little town, where loyal customers frequent both establishments 

every day. They are banned from stepping inside the competitor's

restaurant, insisting on perpetuating a nasty feud that spans over

three generations. 

Sisters Amanda and Mae Moore grew up in Merinac, but followed 

different paths after  graduation. Amanda stayed in town, marrying

Frank Pogociello, which banished her from Mimi's, where her

mother, Barbara, reigns as proprietor. Mae, on the other hand, decided

to leave her hometown, and the agonizing, childhood memories

that still haunt her today.

Soon Mae became a celebrity by writing a best-seller about decluttering

your life, while her photogenic face graced a few episodes of  Sparkling,

a wildly successful reality series. And although they live miles

apart, bitter resentments and hostility between the estranged sisters 

still remain. 

On a whim, Amanda decides to answer an advertisement from

Food Wars, a hit television series that promises to pay a whopping

$100,000 grand prize to one lucky restaurant owner willing to pit

their expertise and dining experience against a formidable challenger.

Much to her surprise, the show chooses the chicken establishments

in tiny Merinac to be spotlighted for all the nation to see.

Surely, Mae won't return, but much to Amanda's surprise, she does, 

and the supposedly carefree contest turns into a soul-wrenching expose

of humiliating secrets and misunderstandings that rip open old, hidden 

wounds best left in the past. The perky Food Wars TV host is relentless 

in her quest to  probe deeply into the family squabble, rather than 

simply staging a taste-testing between two adversaries. What she uncovers 

is disturbing, and the many players in the story all converge to face the

fall-out. A painful intervention may be what it takes for Amanda and Mae to 

finally realize that blood is thicker than any chicken recipe could ever be. 

This endearing, light-hearted, but thought-provoking paperback, is

a delightful read to lift your spirits during this 2020 holiday season.

It's the perfect gift for Mom, your best friend, or that sister you find

so often irritating, but can't live without. 

 

 

"The Wonder Boy of Whistle Stop"

"The Wonder Boy of Whistle Stop" by Fannie Flagg 

In the 1930s, Whistle Stop, Alabama, was a bustling

railroad town, where plain, good folks lived. In the best

of times. they laughed together, in the worst of times,

they cried and comforted each other. No pretense, no

flair, just a common place where everyone was welcome. 

Now, many years later, Whistle Stop is a pile of

junk and rubble, a sad, ghost town where a weary

traveler could once stretch his legs on the way to the big city. 

If you are nostalgic, and feel like dropping by to see what

remains, be sure to listen very carefully, because the faint

whispers of what used to be, may echo in your ears. 

Like the lively conversation coming out of the Whistle Stop

Cafe, home of the famous, fried, green tomatoes. Or the

gossip from the beauty parlor owned by Opal Butts where

stylish ladies get their hair done-up every Saturday.

You might even hear Reverend Scroggins preaching

encouraging sermons to his flock of worshippers who 

seldom listen to sound advice.

Bud Threadgoode grew up in this town, and now he's an

old man, determined to return one last time to that place

where fond memories fill his heart and soul. This is his

story, spanning the glorious past, while taking a peek as 

to what's in store for an uncertain future. Join Bud on his

journey as he mourns the loss of so many loved ones,

celebrates newfound friendships, and embraces endless

possibilities in his twilight years. 

Actress Fannie Flagg writes another delightful story in

her Whistle Stop series, with all the warmth and humor of her

two previous books. Step back in time where mellow anecdotes

and lovable characters fill every page. Perhaps the next

chapter about this beguiling town is waiting to be written. 

"In a Holidaze"

When twenty-six year-old Maelyn Jones looks to the

stars, and secretly asks the Universe to show her the road

to happiness, she receives an astounding response 

from up above. 

It all starts on the way home from what looks to be the

final, holiday getaway at the picturesque Utah cabin

where she and her extended family celebrate every year. 

The eclectic group includes her divorced parents, and an

entourage of former college buddies with their families, 

who gather annually to drink, and be merry. Commemorating

tried-and-true traditions, and generally getting on each other's

nerves is fondly anticipated. They wouldn't have it any other way. 

But there's a different vibe to the party atmosphere this year.

The beloved cabin is in disrepair, and the owners are looking 

to sell the property. Just another monumental disappointment 

in Maelyn's unfilled life. Along with no place of her own to live,

and a dead-end job, she finds it impossible to deny romantic

feelings for a man who has been a childhood friend forever. 

When a fiery crash occurs on the return trip home, Maelyn wakes

up on a plane, heading to Utah, and only she remembers the past,

fretful, few days. Her family is concerned and puzzled, since they

are clueless as to the nonsense she is recalling. For Maelyn, it's

the beginning of  a series of disasters about to happen

over and over, until she finds the peace and contentment that's

been hers all along for the taking. 

This playful, feel-good romance, ushers in the upcoming season

with a story reminiscent of the movie "Groundhog Day". Family

and friends learn that the challenge of growing up, evolving, and

changing priorities, doesn't necessarily have to be painful, as long

as honesty and love are part of the equation. Despite the odds,

this charming novel may have  you believing that happily-ever-after

is just a wish away. 

"Confessions on the 7:45"

"Confessions on the 7:45" by Lisa Unger

Two strangers sit idly on a stalled train, sneaking 

forbidden alcohol, and passing time by sharing

intimate details about their lives. 

Selena is catching the late train home, after watching

a tell-all video in her office that stings, but fails to 

surprise. When she approaches the stunning beauty

who identifies herself as Martha, the two have an instant

connection. It's not long before Selena confides her suspicions

that unfaithful husband, Graham, is in an illicit relationship

with the efficient nanny. And Martha confesses she's

having a clandestine affair with the husband of her

cool, collected boss. At the end of another grueling

day, filled with disappointment, stress, and harsh reality,

two ladies find solace in one another. Daring, but 

certainly not dangerous. Or is it? 

"Don't you ever wish problems would just take care

of themselves?" asks the mysterious Martha. 

Days later , the loyal nanny disappears, and Selena's 

nagging uneasiness intensifies, as she recalls the subject

of conversation on that lonely 7:45 train. Coincidence,

or is there something far more sinister to their encounter?

This is the beginning of a twisted drama filled with

revenge, lies, and deception, proving that baring one's soul

sometimes has dire consequences A sizzling. steamy

psychological thriller that shrewd readers will relish as

they travel through a maze of characters with ulterior motives. 

 

"Three Single Wives"

"Three Single Wives" by Gina LaManna

Eliza Tate knows how to host a book club.

Keep the smooth, vintage wine flowing, invite a

famous, eccentric author, to engage in lively 

conversation, and toy with the notion of what it

would be like to commit murder.

Indeed, that evening does end with a dead body, but

the enticing story actually begins six months earlier,

where the reader is introduced to four individuals 

with a motive to plunge a knife into a victim so 

many wanted eliminated. 

There's Eliza, the poised, aloof, sometimes cold-hearted

literary agent, and Anne, the down-trodden, exhausted 

mother of four, married to a well-respected cop with 

secrets of his own. Penny, the not-so-innocent, wide-eyed

aspiring actress from Iowa, is infatuated with her elusive

professor, while partaking in a nasty little habit. And

Marguerite, the boisterous author herself, is a champion of

women with a clear disdain for men. 

They have more in common with one another than they think, 

and the reader (along with the prosecution) has the painstaking

job of deciphering the clever clues to uncover the real culprit. 

An engaging, easy-to-read mystery that belies the adage

"Never underestimate the power of a woman scorned". 

 

"Anxious People"

Anxious People by Fredrik Backman 

Desperate people often do very foolish things.

Take the case of the bungling bank robber, who 

half-heartedly brandishes a pistol while demanding 

money from a cashless Swedish bank, while the social 

media-obsessed girl at the counter, thinks it's all a silly

joke. The would-be thief simply wants enough cash to

pay the rent, but the futile attempt has now turned into

a clumsy escape from the authorities. 

So the amateur perpetrator runs to an apartment building

open house, where a mismatched group of eight possible 

buyers mistakenly think they are being held hostage. 

What ensues, is a comical, yet heartwarming story, of total

strangers finding friendship in a most unlikely place.

Everyday lives change dramatically during the crazy, chaotic

hours they spend together. 

 

You'll meet a cold-hearted banker, an elderly lady, wise and 

mischievous with a contagious, positive attitude, a gay couple 

fearful of bringing a child into an uncertain world, and a man

of mystery with an unusual occupation. Add to this motley 

crew of needy individuals, is the father/son police duo who

reconnect with one another while enduring endless interviews

with a slew of frustrating witnesses. They all unite with one

purpose, and begin to execute their clever and ingenious plan

to end their unusual predicament. 

Readers will feel a wide gamut of emotions as they turn the

pages of this book, written by an author with the remarkable talent 

of intertwining his memorable characters in a most disarming way. 

 

The End of Her

The End of Her by Shari Lapena

Stephanie Kilgour's life is close to perfection, even with the
sleepless nights, and stressful days of caring for colicky twin
girls with her devoted husband, Patrick. She wouldn't have it
any other way.

But her idyllic existence shatters into a million pieces, when
Erica Voss, an unwelcome relic from Patrick's past, arrives in town
with an outrageous claim that Patrick's first wife did not die in a
tragic accident; rather she was murdered by a man with a gift for
covering up the truth, a man they both know so well.

Patrick insists it's all about blackmail from a disturbed woman, but
Stephanie has doubts when Erica reveals intimate details about her
husband that a mere acquaintance couldn't possibly know. Hoping
she'll simply fade from their lives, proves to be wishful thinking, when
Erica makes unannounced appearances everywhere, including Patrick's
workplace, and casual outings at the park with the babies. Strange
occurrences at the house, and the feeling of intrusive eyes always
watching, are driving Stephanie and Patrick to the point of no return.
Their lack of trust in one another is threatening a once solid marriage.

So who's the liar? The steadfast love of Stephanie's life, father of her
precious children, or the master manipulator, a cunning woman with a cruel
vendetta?

Whenever a reader feels compelled to finish a psychological thriller in one
sitting, you know it has to be good. This is one of those books. Suspense
enthusiasts will devour the cleverly written plot, deliciously devious
characters, and an unsettling conclusion.

The Book of Lost Names

The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel

Eighty-six-year old, Eva Traube, is on a transatlantic flight to
Berlin, traveling alone, lost in thought, and trembling with
anticipation about what she might find once she arrives at her
destination. She's in search of  a precious book, presumed lost
forever, a testimony to a life few could ever imagine.

Eva vividly remembers fleeing occupied Paris with her
mother in 1942, during World War II. As the child of Polish
Jews, her father wants his family safely in the Free Zone,
while he stays behind, fully aware of the danger that lurks around
every corner. So they run to safety, as Eva prays that one day
they will meet again, while a bitter, angry mother blames her
daughter for leaving their loved one to confront the enemy.

Once settled, Eva finds contentment in a peaceful, little village
where the Resistance movement is busy at work. It's here, where a
compassionate priest recognizes Eva's unique talent for forgery. She
artistically creates fake documents for innocent Jewish children
who are in harm's way from the atrocities of the Nazis, giving them
optimism for  a new life in neutral Switzerland. Soon, the network
is helping anyone who dares to escape from the suffocating oppression in
the War zone.

Along with a charming man named Remy, who shares her passion,
and steals her heart, the team works diligently to devise a puzzling
code, hidden in an eighteenth century religious book. Perhaps someday,
the true identities of the most vulnerable affected by the War, will discover
who they really are, created so painstakingly by weary hands and loving
hearts.

But when Remy disappears, clearly something has gone terribly wrong
in their meticulous plans, putting them all in grave danger with only a short
period of time to run away to freedom. The harrowing days that enfold will be
a test of strength and sheer determination.

Along with the main, memorable characters, there are a host of
many more personalities that shape this true story into a moving
depiction of the fear, and trepidation the blameless endured during some
of the darkest days in world history.

At the center of this lovely, emotional, historical fiction novel, is a brave heroine
who faced evil with resilience and fortitude, a woman worthy of our admiration.

The Daughters of Foxcote Manor

The Daughters of Foxcote Manor by Eve Chase

They call her Big Rita, the stern, but lovable nanny to Hera and
Teddy, the feisty children of the elite Harrington family.

When their lovely London home is destroyed in a raging fire,
patriarch Walter sends them all to recuperate at Foxcote Manor, a
remote, English, country estate. This includes his wife, Jeannie, a woman
teetering on the edge of a total breakdown as a result of a recent
tragedy. What the family doesn't know, is daughter Hera's memory of
that horrific night, and how she finds it impossible to erase from it
her mind.

The crumbling Manor is nestled in the midst of an eerie, impenetrable forest.
Rita is increasingly wary of the daily isolation, uneasy with the feeling that prying
eyes always seem to be watching. A crotchety, old housekeeper seems to delight
in nosing into family affairs, and a kind man, who knows every inch of the
deep, dark wilderness, offers Rita a hint that she is worthy of respect, love,
and romance.

A miraculous discovery in the woods suddenly changes Jeannie's
outlook on life, reawakening her desire to live in the present, rather than dwell
in the sorrow of the past. But the immense secret they all share weighs heavily
on Rita, and when a body they all know too well, is later discovered, and
the village people react with disbelief and horror, the Harrington family finds that lies and more lies are necessary to survive.

Thirty years later in London, a woman by the name of Sylvie, examines her life after
years of tolerating an unhappy marriage. Sylvie's determined to right the rift with her daughter in light of some unexpected news, which leads to an astonishing discovery about the gaps and holes in her life that her mother is determined to take to her grave. With unmitigated perseverance, and a burning desire to finally know the story of her birth, Sylvie finds that the truth is closer than she ever imagined.

Two intertwining stories are incredibly woven into one absorbing mystery
by an author who does it so seamlessly, with her beautiful prose, and vividly
descriptive imagery. A satisfying page-turner not to be missed.

His & Hers

His & Hers by Alice Feeney

As an aspiring BBC anchorwoman, Anna Andrews knows how much
luck plays a part in landing a plum role in front of an adoring television
audience. And her luck has just run out.

Anna has been the replacement anchor for the dynamic and beautiful Cat Jones.
Unfortunately, Cat's back unexpectedly, and Anna is relegated to
being a run-of-the-mill investigative reporter once again. That means
heading to Blackdown, the sleepy, little English village where she grew up,
to cover a brutal murder which has the town in turmoil.

Jack Harper is the Chief  Detective of the Crime Unit in Blackdown, his
hometown, too. When his marriage and life literally fell apart, he left London
for a simpler life. Being back where he spent his youth has been uneventful,
and dull, so perhaps a killer on the loose will resurrect his dying career.

Imagine their surprise, when both Anna and Jack recognize the victim
as someone they know so well, a fact they'd like to keep hidden for as
long as possible, because they just might be suspects in their own investigations.

There's a third narrator in this tale, most likely the killer's. It's difficult to give
away any more of the plot without giving away the ending. Suffice it to say, this
is a psychological thriller so full of lies, secrets, painful memories (some sordid
and dark), twists and turns, and a multitude of incriminating details, you'll find
it helpful to reread some passages. Sweetly addictive, and hard to put down.

Alice Feeney is a master at creating suspense, and figuring out who committed
murder (maybe more than one?) is simply fun.

Surviving Savannah

Surviving Savannah by Patti Callahan

Here it is!

I am so excited to share the cover for SURVIVING SAVANNAH  by New York Times bestselling author Patti Callahan, on sale March 9, 2021 (Berkley hardcover).

It's inspired by the true and forgotten story of the sinking of the "Titanic of the South", a luxury steamship that sank in 1838 with Savannah's elite on board.
Through time, no one thought of their fates-until the wreck was found. Now the story is finally being told.

#survivingsavannah #patticallahan #historicalfiction (tag @berkleypub and @pattichenry)

Pre-order it here: https://bit.ly/3i9VQ4Y

Visit Patti online https://www.patticallahanhenry.com/surviving-savannah

You can enter for a chance to win an advanced digital review copy of the book here:

https://sweeps.penguinrandomhouse.com/enter/surviving-savannah-cover-reveal-sweeps
(NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. US Residents, 18+. Ends August 17, 2020
See official rules at official website.)

Good Luck! And be sure to mark March 9, 2021 on your calendar for my review,
and your opportunity to read what promises to be another fascinating story by the
author who writes historical fiction so well.

The Pull of the Stars

The Pull of the Stars by Emma Donoghue

The year is 1918. The place, a cramped and stifling
maternity/fever ward in Dublin, Ireland where Julia Power,
a weary nurse, cares almost single-handedly, for pregnant
women quarantined with the Great Flu and the effects
 of a debilitating war.

On Halloween night, Julia trudges to work as usual, leaving her
mute brother at home, only to find one patient has succumbed
overnight to the deadly virus, while three others are in the
throes of fever and the misery of difficult labors. Overwhelmed
with responsibility, Julia welcomes the presence of capable
Dr. Kathleen Lynn, a rebel wanted by the police, and Bridie Sweeney,
an inquisitive redhead, whose naivety brightens the gloomy days
and nights.

This is their story, three unlikely comrades doing all they can to
bring new life into a world of chaos and despair. The strong
and remarkable characters face adversity and preconceived
notions with dignity and grace, daring to dream of a brighter
future.

The author's historical research is flawless, her details extraordinary.
She writes of shunned children, like Bridie, born out-of-wedlock, and
sent to Catholic convents where they are subjected to hard labor, ridicule, and
pity. She speaks of the shame and rejection disgraced mothers endure
in society, the sins of the past never forgotten.

I suggest reading the author's notes at the end, which tell of the
real Dr. Lynn and her contributions to the cause. Emma Donoghue
couldn't know how eerily close this haunting, complex story, brimming
with emotion, would mirror the global pandemic of 2020.

The Lost and Found Bookshop

The Lost and Found Bookshop by Susan Wiggs

Just when Natalie Harper thinks she's on her way
to a secure financial future, tragic news sends her home to
deal with staggering grief, and a myriad of unexpected
problems.

She's inherited the quirky bookshop her late mother so
dearly loved, along with overdue taxes, unpaid bills, and
her beloved, but stubborn, grandfather, Andrew, who suffers from
dementia. She gladly accepts the role of caretaker for the one
man she adores.

The daunting task of trying to save and restore the crumbling,
historic building, soon overshadows the bittersweet childhood
memories of the place she once called home. With a limited
budget, and enormous obstacles popping up every day,
an overwhelmed Natalie enlists the help of a good-looking
contractor, Peach Gallagher, whose young, precocious daughter
brightens the shop with lively conversation and a burgeoning
appreciation of books.

As the walls of the ancient building begin to come down, Peach and
Natalie discover hidden treasures; artifacts that may or may not
be of value, yet hold historical significance about the fascinating
past that Andrew speaks of with passion. The elusive truth about Natalie's
family is closer than they think, waiting to be revealed at just the right
moment in time.

This lovely, mellow romance, filled with rich characters and family drama,
is written by an author who exudes warmth in every book she writes. It's ideal for
those readers who browse endlessly in independent bookstores, finding joy
and satisfaction in the sheer pleasure of believing "there's something
magical about a book".

As Natalie's mother often said, " Sometimes you have to let the right book
find you". In these unprecedented times, where our lives are challenging and
chaotic, I'm hoping this book does indeed, find you.

The Last Flight

The Last Flight by Julie Clark

Claire Cook and Eva James are virtual strangers,
but they have one thing in common. Both women are
tormented souls, desperate to escape their lives that
are spiraling out of control.

When they randomly meet in a crowded airport, bound for
different destinations, a casual conversation turns into talk
of a wild and dangerous scheme to swap identities. They
have only one goal in mind, and that is to vanish into
thin air without a trace.

Claire is the polished and competent wife of charming
Rory Cook, heir to a political dynasty, who's preparing to
announce his candidacy for Senator. The lovely couple graces
magazine covers, but the ugly truth about the sordid
side of their relationship, remains hidden behind closed doors.

What the public doesn't see are the bruises and scars Claire
meticulously hides, a result of her husband's volatile temper
that erupts with the slightest provocation. She suspects confidants
in Rory's inner circle conveniently look away. Her intricate
plan to disappear is finally ready, and with luck on her side,
the agony of the last few years will be a distant memory.

Eva's once bright future disintegrated when her poor judgement
and misguided faith in another, robbed her of a promising future.
She longs to create a life so different from her dismal upbringing,
and when an opportunity presents itself to change her destiny,
Eva grabs onto it, without thinking of the dire consequences
of her actions. There's only one way out, and Claire Cook
is the answer to her prayers. But even the best-laid plans can
go terribly wrong when fate intervenes.

This psychological thriller is one of those savvy reads that's
almost impossible to put down. The author navigates
the past and present with ease, yet the reader must pay
close attention to details from the very beginning. Do that,
and you'll be rewarded with an intensely, satisfying story.

The novel speaks of the power of women, and their innate ability to
listen to one another, empathize, and savor true and lasting friendships.

Current and relevant in today's world, the message comes across loud and clear.

The Guest List

The Guest List by Lucy Foley

Dark, dangerous, and brooding, this windswept island
off the coast of Ireland, hardly seems the ideal setting
for a lavish wedding celebration.

But when the bride and groom are dazzlingly beautiful
and famous, even the bleakest venue becomes an exciting
adventure for those lucky enough to be on the exclusive
guest list.

If only the privileged knew, that in just a few, short hours,
the raucous festivities will end with a grizzly, brutal murder.
And anyone could be the killer.

The select group of guests includes the groom's former
schoolmates, who reminisce about ominous secrets from the past,
while partying with reckless abandon. There's the bumbling
best man, who endures ridicule and embarrassment with bottled-up
resentment bubbling deep inside of him. The bride's sister,
a tortured soul who's lost her way, fails miserably trying to put a smile
on her face, and the cool, calm, and capable wedding planner and
her husband, turn ever detail into pure perfection, always watching from afar.

The parents of the happy couple pretend to show their undying support,
while the  bride's best friend struggles to enjoy the frivolity,
hiding a ghastly secret from his wife who's ready to shed her inhibitions.

And the stunning couple themselves, can't help but feel impending
doom, as the wedding of a lifetime begins to unravel.

This fabulous thriller has all the elements for the perfect whodunit.
Fast-paced, with a dizzying array of suspects, the author revels in throwing
the reader off the trail many times over. The setting, with its swirling, black
waters, bogs, and eerie pitfalls, is perfect for late-night reading on a stormy,
summer night.

Agatha Christie, herself, might enjoy this one.

On Ocean Boulevard

On Ocean Boulevard by Mary Alice Monroe

With a bruised ego, broken love affair, and
two suitcases containing all her worldly possessions,
Linnea Rutledge returns home to The Lowcountry
of South Carolina, a place where soft, ocean breezes,
sizzling days, and starlit nights, spell new beginnings.

Linnea's first stop is a visit to Primrose Cottage on
Sullivan's Island to see her Aunt Cara, a woman she's
admired since she was a child. Finding unexpected love
later in life, Cara was then tragically widowed, adopted a
child, and forged a remarkable career with her usual grit
and determination. Linnea needs the advice and guidance
only her Aunt can give, now more than ever.

Both women are about to embark on a summer of
discovery. Cara, now engaged to the dashing,
wealthy David Wyatt, is planning a lavish wedding that
her friends and family want far more than she does.
And Linnea, longing for a purpose in life after experiencing
disappointment and failure, dares to dream of romance
with a man who seems to fulfill her every need.

A season of turmoil and upheaval lies ahead. The cruel reality
of dementia torments a cherished neighbor as dear acquaintances
watch her slip away, and a serious, life-threatening illness
threatens to tear apart a blended family.

The author, true to form, includes research about environmental
issues facing our world with insight and compassion, this time
shedding light on the frightening statistics about plastics in our oceans.
Fascinating facts about the amazing journey and survival of sea turtles,
blends itself gracefully into a story of awakening and starting over.

Mary Alice Monroe envelopes her readers in a soothing, captivating
story about self-reflection, budding romance, forgiveness, and precious
memories, all centered around characters her faithful fans know
and love, and her new readers will come to embrace.

A lovely addition to Monroe's Beach House Series, this soon-to-be-released
novel leaves open all sorts of possibilities about what the future
holds for the next generation of the indestructible, Rutledge women.

For more information, please go to: MaryAliceMonroe.com

Hello, Summer

Hello, Summer by Mary Kay Andrews

Hotshot journalist, Conley Hawkins, is back home
in Silver Bay, Florida, after her dream job in
Washington, D.C. fizzled and died.

Low on money and self-esteem, Conley begins working
at the local, family-owned newspaper, The Beacon, a
small-town publication with financial woes. It means
reporting to older sister, Grayson, who doesn't embrace
Conley's return, overseeing the weekly gossip column,
written by a cantankerous, old relic who's stuck in the
past, and overhauling a paper that's far from current.

When Conley witnesses a horrific accident after a night
of carousing with an old friend, her investigative instincts
take over, and soon she's probing into the shady life of an
esteemed congressman, and decorated war veteran, who
perished in the fiery crash. It takes her down a winding,
dangerous path of dusty, decades-old secrets in a peaceful,
little town that doesn't take kindly to having the past resurrected.

Returning to Silver Bay is turning out to be anything but boring,
as Conley acknowledges painful memories, and the realization
that love can blossom in a place of easy living, powdery, white
sands, and spectacular Gulf water sunsets.

Now, more then ever, we need the mystery, romance, and humor, that
veteran writer Mary Kay Andrews always provides in her stories, and
this new release is no exception. With an intriguing plot, the author
introduces readers to some memorable characters that will make you
smile. There's Rowena, the gossip columnist with her caked-on
makeup, garish ensembles, and bedazzled cane, and G'mama, the shrewd,
steadfast matriarch of the family who may be ancient, but seems to
know exactly what her granddaughter needs for a lifetime of happiness.

Wrap yourself around this warm, witty, beach read, to mark
the beginning of sunny, summer days ahead.

Valentine

Valentine by Elizabeth Wetmore

It's 1976, and the forsaken West Texas
town of Odessa, is on the verge of a boom.

Oil rigs spew liquid gold, the pungent odor
filling the air with a stink that's hard to erase.
The men who work long, dangerous, and tedious
hours, live with reckless abandon when they leave
the fields, slugging bourbon down parched throats,
looking for excitement and purpose in this dry, dusty
hole they call home. The women are always on guard,
anticipating the aftermath that's sure to come.

Fourteen-year-old Glory Ramirez miraculously escapes
a violent rape in the predawn hours after Valentine's Day
by one of these cocky cowboys with money in his
pocket, and an eye for pretty girls.

Bruised and battered, Glory finds herself on the
doorstep of Mary Rose Whitehead's isolated ranch,
begging for help, her life hanging by a thread.
When the attacker, still nursing a pounding hangover,
comes looking for his victim, pregnant Mary Rose, is ready
for him with her trusty rifle, while her daughter and
Glory huddle inside.

The ensuing, terrifying confrontation is just the beginning
of the harrowing days and nights leading up to the hideous crime
being tried in a court of law. In a town filled with hatred,
racism, and superiority, townspeople will judge and condemn
Mary Rose for her involvement, refusing to believe the truth
about one of their own.

An incredible array of characters make this riveting story come
alive. Corrine, a retired, grieving schoolteacher, who never fit into the
mold of a stay-at-home wife, Debra Ann, the disheveled
wise-beyond-her-years child next door whose mother walked out,
on her family, the sad, timid Vietnam War veteran, longing for home,
who Debra Ann befriends, and the naive waitress who takes matters
into her own hands when pushed too far.

This brutally raw, yet achingly tender debut novel, is one you won't
soon forget. The Texas-born author whisks the reader away to a land
of rolling tumbleweeds, vast miles of emptiness, deadly, hissing snakes,
clear, star-studded skies, and breathtaking sunsets. You will feel the
pain, fear, empathy, sorrow, and hope as each character trudges on
through the lives they've been handed.

And you will marvel at the strength and fortitude of amazing women.

The Authenticity Project

The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley

Strangers become friends, when they dare to
share their innermost thoughts in a simple,
traveling notebook, called The Authenticity
Project.

Julian Jessop is an old man, whose once glittering
star has faded. There was a time when his art work
graced prestigious galleries, and the rich and famous
flocked to his side. But those days are gone, and he
now struggles to find a reason to get out of bed in
the morning. His body may be ravaged by time, but
vivid memories are not forgotten, especially those of
dear Mary.

As Julian reflects on his life, he wonders how
different things could have been if he'd told
the truth over the years, rather than living
a lie. So he writes poignant words in an unadorned,
green journal, and leaves it at his favorite cafe, hoping
the next curious person will be inclined to write
their own deeply private musings.

Cafe owner, Monica, finds the journal as she ends
another frenzied day in her struggling business where
the usual dirty cups and leftover crumbs wait to be cleaned
by her capable hands. A glass of wine, and a few
moments of silent reading are about to change Monica's
regimented life in ways she never imagined.

Julian's words leave an imprint on Monica's soul. Perhaps
it's time to express her hopes, fears, and disappointments
on the next pages for a stranger to read. For too long, she's
hidden her desire for a family because she feared acknowledging
the truth. Now, remaining anonymous, Monica feels a new-found
freedom.

The little journal travels to faraway places, finding its
way into the hands of an array of characters who
take pleasure in telling the truth, ugly as it may be.
You'll meet an alcoholic addict running from his past, an
overwhelmed woman with a precious baby, obsessed with
social media, and a gossipy lady who seems to have a knack for
knowing exactly what to do in trying circumstances.

Interwoven in the story are a gay couple who long
for acceptance, and a handsome Australian in love with
the idea of romance. Together, all their stories intertwine
in a most fascinating way.

At a time when we are experiencing a global pandemic,
I can't think of a better selection than this one. It exemplifies
what the world needs right now, such as kindness, reaching out to
others, forgiveness, honesty, and some much-needed humor. The
inspiring plot offers a ray of sunshine in uncertainty.

And be sure to read the author's acknowledgements at the
end of the book, to further understand the heart of the story.

"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift".

I think we can all agree on that.

The Other Mrs.

The Other Mrs. by Mary Kubica

The old house Will and Sadie Foust inherited on
a tiny island off the rocky coast of Maine, is cold,
drafty, and dated. So different from the one
they once occupied in vibrant, bustling Chicago.

The dramatic move is probably for the best, considering
Sadie's shaky, controversial exit as an ER doctor from
the hospital where she once saved lives, and 14-year-old
Otto's violent past with school bullies who terrorized
him until the breaking point.

Along with the unexpected gift of a home desperately
in need of repair, comes guardianship of niece, Imogen,
a dark, brooding teenager who witnessed the unthinkable
tragedy of her mother's apparent suicide in the dusty attic
of a home now occupied by relatives she barely knows.
Imogen's mission is to make Sadie's life miserable, and she
seems to be succeeding in every way.

It's going to take a while to acclimate to their new
surroundings, but Will handles it all with ease and
finesse, working part-time as a human ecology professor,
cooking, cleaning, and entertaining rambunctious
7-year-old, Tate.

Life takes a dramatic turn for the Foust family when
neighbor, Morgan Baines, is brutally murdered. Sadie
hears the whispers and innuendos about Will's friendly,
flirtatious sightings with Morgan, and can't help but feel
the pain of his past affair. The police don't take kindly to
the new doctor in town, and when they question Sadie's
alibi at the time of the murder, panic sets in, with the
realization she's a prime suspect.

Suddenly, everything becomes murky and convoluted,
secrets and little white lies surface, and fear that a
killer is loose, permeates this otherwise quiet neighborhood.

Author Mary Kubica, a Miami University, Oxford, Ohio grad,
weaves an eerie web of mystery and deceit in her latest psychological
thriller. Alternating chapters introduce the reader to an array of
questionable characters in a complicated plot. Think you have the
puzzle solved? Don't be fooled....think again.

In these troubling, unprecedented times, reading an enticing book
can fill endless hours in a day. The libraries may be closed, but
ebooks, and audio books are still a resource. Better yet, splurge on
a purchase at a struggling bookstore. Since face-to-face gatherings
are not on the horizon, be creative in sharing with friends, family,
and book clubs.

This tantalizing gem is a good way to start.

The Sun Down Motel

The Sun Down Motel by Simone St. James

In 1982, twenty-year-old Vivian Delaney vanished
without a trace from the Sun Down Motel, a desolate
stop off a lonely stretch of highway near Fell, New York.

Viv never intended to stay. This was supposed to
be a short break on the way to the glamour of New York
City, and her dream of becoming an actress. But when
she's offered a job as the night clerk at this forlorn
cluster of dusty rooms, she accepts the chance to make
some quick cash.

Viv soon realizes something's terribly wrong at the Sun
Down....locked doors that mysteriously open, shuffling
footsteps and the smell of smoke when no one's there,
the feeling of being watched from the shadows, the
flickering blue and yellow neon sign that suddenly
plunges everything into darkness, and the mysterious
woman who appears in a haze with words of warning to
run away.

Yet, Viv is inexplicably drawn to this dismal place where
time stands still. With fear and apprehension, she becomes
obsessed with a string of unsolved murders in this tiny town
in upstate New York, knowing that The Sun Down may hold
the answers. Dabbling in a dangerous game with some
very unsavory players, may prove to be deadly.

Thirty-five years later, Carly Kirk arrives in the bleak
town of  Fell, determined to find out what happened to her
Aunt Viv. What better place to start her search, than the
Sun Down Motel. Carly begins reenacting her aunt's life,
following the trail Viv left behind. Beckoned by the strange
aura that surrounds the motel, she makes a shocking
discovery about her aunt's past that puts her own life in
jeopardy.

Fans of spooky, ghost stories will delight in this eerie,
suspenseful mystery. Filled with complex characters,
unexpected twists and turns, and macabre imagery,
this spine-tingling page-turner is perfect for
those readers who revel in the supernatural.

Recipe for a Perfect Wife

Recipe for a Perfect Wife by Karma Brown

Alice Hale's wan smile and feigned enthusiasm
disguise her unhappiness as she walks through
the run-down house in the suburbs she and
husband, Nate, now call home.

Alice misses their tiny place in New York City, but
struggled to come up with a reason not to move when
she told Nate she quit her bustling PR job. Soon they'll be
able to start the family they've talked about, and Alice can
finally begin turning her dream of writing a best-selling novel
into reality, away from the stress and turmoil of urban life.

But there are a few things Nate doesn't know, like the real
reason his wife is unemployed, or how far she'll go to prevent
a pregnancy; secrets that can't stay hidden forever.

Alice finds a purpose in her new surroundings when unopened
letters surface, written in the 1950s, by Nellie Murdoch,
the spirited young woman who owned the Hale house many
years ago. The letters, along with a splattered, vintage cookbook,
reveal details of a new wife struggling to appease a demanding
husband, while fitting into a neighborhood filled with gossip,
back-stabbers, and Tupperware parties.

Alice looks forward to reading Nellie's fascinating letters that
give her the much-needed inspiration to write her novel based
on this mysterious lady. And as each letter reveals more, it's clear that
Nellie took dangerous secrets of her own to her grave.

Start the year with this riveting, page-turner about how one restless
woman in 2018, finds the courage to speak her mind, encouraged by
a woman she only knows from the pages of faded letters; one
Nellie Murdoch, a smart, calculating lady who endured unspeakable
travesties behind closed doors.

This is a story ideal for lively discussions at book clubs about how
far women have come, and how far they have to go. It's filled with
some interesting (and amusing) advice from the past, and a
treasure trove of delicious recipes, tested over time, when the
expectation of a delicious meal each and every night, was part of a wife's
duties.

Suspenseful, enlightening, humorous, and addictive, this novel
is one you don't want to miss.