August 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read: 

Passenger to Tehran by Vita Sackville-West (1926) 4/5 stars

This short memoir tells of the spring 1926 journey Sackville-West made to Persia -- first visiting Egypt, then coming back to England through Russia, Poland, and Germany.  It is full of beautiful prose and vivid descriptions, but mostly shows the reader the author herself through her comments, reactions, and emotions.  It's laugh-out-loud funny at times, moving at others, and always thought-provoking.  I wouldn't recommend it as a reader's introduction to Sackville-West (I would suggest All Passion Spent, or her novellas "Seducers in Ecuador" and "The Heir"), but for those already familiar with her work, this is a must read.  Note: I read the version with the introduction by her son, Nigel Nicholson, and found that it added to tremendously to the experience.

 

Mr. Zero by Patricia Wentworth (1938)  3/5 stars

This is a light, though tense, novel of espionage and suspense with a dash of romance. Though it was easy to solve, it was still enjoyable.

John Marchmont's Legacy by Mary Elizabeth Braddon (1863)  4/5 stars

This was an entertaining Victorian melodrama and while it lacked the surprises and twists that her books usually have, it was still well-written and engrossing.

The Flight of the Shadow by George MacDonald (1891)  4/5 stars

This is a typical Victorian melodrama with strong Christian overtones.  It's well-written, interesting, with a few nice twists.  Definitely not MacDonald's finest work, but still an entertaining read if you enjoy that genre.

Come, Tell Me How You Live by Agatha Christie Mallowan (1946)  4/5 stars

As with her Autobiography, Christie's archeological memoirs are chatty, insightful, and fun to read.  There are bits that were amusing to the author that don't sit well with 21st-Century sensibility, but overall it's was an entertaining depiction of living in Syria for three seasons of excavation.  

Audiobooks Completed:
The Worcester Whisperers by Kerry Tombs (2008)  4/5 stars

Inspector Ravenscroft mysteries, book 2

This is a solid mystery with appealing characters and a satisfying solution.  I didn't like that the Inspector had information that the reader did not, but other than that, I enjoyed the book.

A Body at a Boarding School by Benedict Brown (2021)  3/5 stars

Lord Edgington Investigates, book 2

A retired Scotland Yard Inspector investigates a murder with his teenage grandson learning at his side.  This is a fun, light, cozy mystery and, while not deep, did have an entertaining plot.

No. 17 by J. Jefferson Farjeon (1926)  4/5 stars

This is a delightful crime novel/adventure starring Ben, presently out-of-work from the Merchant Navy, who discovers a dead body in an empty house.  It's funny, mostly well-written, and (though often predictable), still has a few twists. 

Did Not Finish

The Bullet-Catcher's Daughter by Rod Duncan 

This is the first in a steampunk-alternate history trilogy that I really wanted to like.  My problem was twofold: the author does more telling than showing, but despite all the info given, after seven chapters I was still unable to fully grasp the world of the novel.  

July 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Fly Country by Anthony Lang (1928)  4/5 stars

This is a light mystery/crime story with a bit of romance.  It is well-written and engaging and, though I figured out a good deal, I was interested to the end.

HIH Grand Duke MIchael Alexandrovich

Michael and Natasha: The Life and Love of Michael II, the Last of the Romanov Tsars by Rosemary and Donald Crawford (1997)  4/5 stars

This is a biography of the Grand Duke Michael Aleksandrovich, brother of Tsar Nicholas II, who was made Tsar for a brief period during the Russian Revolution of 1917.  It focuses on his relationship with Nathalie Wulfert with whom he fell passionately in love -- enough so to defy his family to marry her.  It is well-written and very interesting, up until the Revolution.  At that point, the authors go into excruciating detail with a mind-boggling amount of minutia.  Overall, though, I was glad to learn about Michael, Natasha, and their life and would recommend the book with the understanding that the middle chapters may need to be skimmed due to the information overload.

Nothing Can Rescue Me by Elizabeth Daly (1943)  4/5 stars

Henry Gamadge, book 5

This is a solid mystery, well-written and entertaining, though a bit convoluted at the end.  

Between the Acts by Virginia Woolf (1941)  3/5 stars

This is Woolf's final novel, published posthumously.  It spans about 24 hours: the night before, the day of, and the evening after the village play.  That play (and the play that was inside that play) is detailed line by excruciating line. I felt like some of the audience, wondering just what the play was about, what I was supposed to feel, and thinking it a bit of a time-waster. (Perhaps that was her point?)  Woolf's examination into the thoughts of the characters was as good as always, but the play felt contrived, almost a filler, and I came away disappointed.  Despite the fact that there are some gorgeous and amazing sentences, I wouldn't recommend this to new readers of Woolf, only to completist fans. 

The Master's Violin by Myrtle Reed (1904)  4/5 stars

This is a gentle novel of romance -- first love and second-chance -- with the overly lyrical prose and heavy emotions typical of the time.  As a fan of this genre and era, I found it enjoyable and entertaining, though I would only recommend it to those who also appreciate turn-of-the-20th-century melodramas.

Audiobooks Completed:

Powers and Thrones: A New History of the Middle Ages by Dan Jones (2021)  4/5 stars

This (long) nonfiction exploration of the Middle Ages is told by theme (such as monks, crusaders, merchants, and navigators) rather than by strict chronological order.  I found this to be a very effective arrangement and, though I didn't learn many new-to-me facts due to lots of previous studying of this time period, I enjoyed the writing, presentation, and style.  I definitely recommend this to those interested in, but relatively new to, the study of the Middle Ages.

Did Not Finish:

House of Brass by Ellery Queen

This was written in 1968 and it shows with its attitude toward sex and women, and overall slimy feel.  I enjoy the Queen novels of the 1940s, and even some later, but this one was just unreadable for me.  (Note: I found out after this review that was ghostwritten by Avram Davidson.)

 

Bonjour Agent by Fabergé Eastern 

It isn't a bad book -- I would give it 3 stars based on the 30% I read -- but it felt immature, both plot and prose.  Also, adding historical figures as characters in a book takes a good deal of convincing writing, and it just wasn't believable in this one. 

Ties of Dust by Deborah Grace White

It got too stressful for me due to the politics.

May 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Night of the Letter by Dorothy Eden (1955)  4/5 stars

This is a domestic suspense with gothic vibes.  And if melodramatic, was still entertaining and engrossing, with a satisfying ending.

Blood & Roses: The Paston Family and the Wars of the Roses by Helen Castor (2004)  5/5 stars

Drawing from the the oldest surviving family correspondence written in English, the author/historian tells the story of three generations of the Paston family as they survived the upheavals of the Wars of the Roses. This book is intelligently written while still being easy-to-read.  It is a fascinating glimpse into the ordinary lives of an upwardly-moving family who were living through tumultuous times. 

Cargo of Eagles by Margery Allingham (1968)  3/5 stars

Albert Campion mysteries, book 19

This is the final Campion novel that was written by Allingham, and it was completed after her death by her husband, Pip Youngman Carter, from the notes she left.  It suffers from having too much going on in too few pages.  Despite being convoluted and confusing at times, the adventure was generally entertaining, and it's always fun to revisit Campion and Lugg.

The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis (1942)  5/5 stars

This was a reread for me, and I was even more impressed this time.  Lewis holds a mirror up and I saw myself in so many ways.  Simply a fantastic read for Christians who are willing to see themselves from outside, and who desire to change for the better.

The Captain of the Vulture by Mary Elizabeth Braddon (1863)  4/5 stars

This melodrama/mystery takes place in Georgian England, in the mid 18th century.  I went into it blind, only knowing I love the author, and I'm glad I did because all the plot was a surprise for me. I figured out some elements, but it still had me guessing in parts.  It was quite entertaining, and those that love the genre like I do will most likely enjoy it, too.  

Pride and Preston Lin by Christina Hwang Dudley (2024)  4/5 stars 

This is a contemporary Pride and Prejudice retelling that takes place in the San Francisco Bay Area among the Asian American community.  The characters are mainly college and grad students, learning to know themselves as they mature over the course of the novel.  I enjoyed how the author used the classic plot as a template for her modern story, giving it new twists yet staying faithful to the original.     Overall, I found it charming, often funny, and well-written.   As a fan of Dudley's Regency romances, I had great hopes for this one and was not disappointed.  (note: While it is no-spice, I'd place it in the New Adult category rather than YA.)

Audiobooks Completed:

War Bound by Tara Grayce (2020)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 2

War Bound picks up immediately after the end of the first book, Fierce Heart (my review here), and follows Essie and her elf husband Farrendel to her home country as they try to negotiate a further treaty to ally humans and elves against the aggression of the trolls. The sweet (no-spice) romance between the two continues as their marriage of alliance grows into love.  The plot is one of traitors, danger, and betrayal; it is exciting and engaging, and even had me in tears toward the end.  I enjoyed it tremendously and began the third book immediately after finishing this one.

Death Wind by Tara Grayce (2020)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 3

As previously, Death Wind picks up immediately after the end of War Bound, and tells of the war between the Trolls and the Human/Elf alliance.  It does include a lot of off-the-page torture, which is mentioned without  graphic details after the event.  It is well-written with a tense, gripping, and exciting plot which made me eager to begin the fourth book.

Troll Queen by Tara Grayce (2021)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 4

Like the others, this one picks up exactly where the last one ended.  I don't want to give spoilers, but a treaty is made between the Trolls and the Human/Elf alliance, leading to another marriage to seal the peace -- this time between Elf and Troll.  This book is well-written with lots of action, emotion, and drama, and with sweet and swoony no-spice romance thrown in for good measure. In addition, the author deals with topics like how to love in such a beautiful and healthy way.  I absolutely loved this book!  It's definitely my favorite of the series so far.

Pretense by Tara Grayce (2021)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 5

Assassination attempts, scandal, spying, secrets, and broken hearts fill this fifth installment of the Elven Alliance series.  It focuses on the human Prince Edmund and the elven Princess Jalissa as they navigate a budding relationship initially built on lies.  It's another well-written, no-spice fantasy, with action, emotion, and drama.  While Troll Queen remains my favorite, this one was a great read as well.

Shield Band by Tara Grayce (2022)  4/5 stars

Elven Alliance, book 6

To make a stronger alliance between the human kingdom and the Trolls, the Prince Julian searches for a bride among the Troll warriors.  Picking her was the easiest part -- wooing her was a test of Julian's courage and humility.  They become closer through tragedy and adventure, learning to stand side-by-side and back-to-back to face all difficulties.  This is the final book of the story arc (though three more books remain that deal with side characters and other points-of-view) and it wrapped everything up nicely.  It was well-written, engaging, exciting, and even moving at times, with swoon-worthy no-spice romance.  It quite nearly edged out Troll Queen as my favorite of the series.  

Did Not Finish:

Maid in Waiting by John Galsworthy

End of the Chapter, book 1; The Forsyte Chronicles, book 7

This book begins the final trilogy of The Forsyte Chronicles, but follows cousins-by-marriage to Fleur Forsyte Mont instead of the actual Forsyte family.  I read about half of it, but didn't find it as compelling as the prior two trilogies and eventually lost interest entirely.

February 2026 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

Stalks of Gold by Celeste Baxendell (2021)  3/5 stars

Bewitching Fairy Tales, book 1 

This no-spice fantasy is a combined retelling of Rumpelstiltskin and Rapunzel.  It is one of the author's earliest published novels and is not as good as her later books, mainly because nearly all the characters wallow in anger, despair, angst, or self-pity (if not all at once).  However, it is imaginative, well-written, has an intriguing plot and, for the most part, was an entertaining story. I will certainly read more of the Bewitching Fairy Tales series, but in the meantime, I highly recommend Ties of Starlight (my review) or This Rotting Heart (my review), both of which were five star reads for me.

The Belton Estate by Anthony Trollope (1866)  5/5 stars (my review here)

Fair Warning by Mignon G. Eberhart (1936)  4/5 stars

Marcia has been married for three miserable years to Ivan, an emotionally abusive manipulator.  Her neighbor, Rob, confesses that he loves Marcia and begs her to leave Ivan, but in her fragile mental state, she simply can't.  That night, Ivan is found murdered and Marcia is the most likely suspect.  

Eberhart creates a sense of dread from the very beginning, gradually increasing it until the tense atmosphere is nearly smothering.  The clues and false clues are clever -- every time I was certain I had the answer, I had to start over again.  While it's not a five star book, it was certainly entertaining and gripping.

Nathaniel's Nutmeg by Giles Milton (1999)  4/5 stars (my review here)

The Case Of The Blind Barber by John Dickson Carr (1934)  4/5 stars

Dr. Gideon Fell mysteries, book 4

A group of friends crossing the Atlantic from New York are robbed, rob someone themselves, find and lose an injured person, and become embroiled in one laugh-out-loud situation after another.  It reads  like a slapstick comedy, yet is a clever, skillfully-planned, rather grisly murder mystery. I found it to be highly entertaining  overall, and with a satisfying conclusion.  This is my first time reading any from the Dr. Fell series, so I don't know if they are all humorous stories, but I will certainly read another to see. 

Penny Plain by O. Douglas (1920)  4/5 stars 

The Priorsford Trilogy, book 1

This gentle book is a character study of both people and place, a slice-of-life story, a celebration of sibling love, and a light romance.  It's full of engaging characters and lovely descriptions, and includes strong Christian and moral undertones. Though like a fairy-tale in parts, Penny Plain felt alive and believable in many other ways.  I thoroughly enjoyed this well-written novel and look forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.     

Audiobooks Completed:

These Happy Golden Years by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1943)  4/5 stars

Little House series, book 8; Newbury Medal Nominee

This book finds the Ingalls family doing well in their homestead and becoming a part of the town.  It follows Laura as she becomes a young woman, begins earning money to assist her family, and experiences romance.  It's sweet, funny, and delightful, and a pleasure to watch her grow and mature.  

The Man of Property by John Galsworthy (1906)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Chronicles, book 1 

This is the story of family obsessed with property of all sorts, and their relationships with each other. It's a character study, a novel of manners, and an examination of Victorian life.  Excellently written and completely engrossing, The Man of Property is a memorable experience.

Indian Summer of a Forsyte by John Galsworthy (1918)  5/5 stars

The Forsyte Chronicles, book 1.5 

This novella begins a three years after the end of The Man of Property and is a wonderful, moving, and well-written footnote to the story.   

The Last of the Mohicans by James Fenimore Cooper (1826) 4/5 stars  (my review) 

Did Not Finish:

Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder

This is not so much a "did not finish" as a "did not start".  I didn't want to interrupt the flow of Laura's stories with Almanzo's tale, so my intention was to read it last, after I finished the rest of the Little House series.  I listened to less than one chapter, but got interested in the Galsworthy book and switched to audio with it.  I still intend to return to Farmer Boy, though, as it's one of my favorites of the series.

Orchid Muse by Erica Hannickel

This is subtitled "a history of obsession in fifteen flowers" and I was intrigued.  I love a history tied around one object or person. Unfortunately, the author starts the introduction by saying that there is "nothing quite like the raw sexuality" of an orchid, and she continued with an agenda to sexualize the orchid, which isn't what I was looking to read. 

January 2026 Wrap Up

Books Read:

Famous Last Words by Gillian McAllister (2025)  4/5 stars

This thriller gripped me from the beginning and never let go.  Was it realistic, or plausible, or even believable?  Nope.  But it was totally compelling, completely engaging, and thoroughly enjoyable.

On Wings of Devotion by Roseanna M. White (2020)  4/5 stars

The Codebreakers, book #2 

This Christian novel of romantic suspense follows one of the characters introduced in The Number of Love (my review here).  I had really enjoyed that one, but to me, it didn't feel like WWI.  The author made a much more believable atmosphere with this book, and the plot was gripping, interesting, and even moving.  I enjoyed it tremendously.

Mr. Campion's Farewell by Mike Ripley (2014)  4/5 stars

Mr. Campion series, book 1

This is a continuation of Margery Allingham's Campion series and it felt so much like one of the original adventures that it was hard at times to remember that it wasn't.  This is the second one of Ripley's that I have read and it certainly won't be my last.

 

The Story of the Glittering Plain by William Morris 1890/1891 (first published as a magazine serial)  4/5 stars  (my review here)

Israel Zangwill

The Big Bow Mystery by Israel Zangwill (1892)  5/5 stars

also published as The Perfect Crime

I absolutely loved this mystery.  The writing is witty, sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, the build up nicely done, and the solution clever.  I've seen negative reviews that don't take into account the fact that this is an early locked-room mystery, written well before it was a popular trope, and that the solution would have been novel and shocking at the time.   I highly recommend it for fellow fans of Victorian novels and early detective stories.

Castle Rackrent by Maria Edgeworth (1800)  4/5 stars  (my review here)

The Ivory Child by H. Rider Haggard (1916)  4/5 stars

In this adventure, Allan Quatermain must defeat a massive god-like elephant, help a win a tribal war, and rescue an Englishwoman from an ancient cult.  It's a great yarn, well-written like all of Haggard's Quatermain novels, and even moved me to tears three times.  It was completely engrossing, and though some attitudes are dated, I enjoyed it immensely.  

Audiobooks Completed:

Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1932)  4/5 stars (my review)

Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1935)  4/5 stars (my review)

On the Banks of Plum Creek by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1937)  4/5 stars (my review)

By the Shores of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1939)  4/5 stars (my review)

The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1940)  4/5 stars (my review)

Little Town on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder (1941)  4/5 stars (my review)

Did Not Finish:

The Mistletoe Countess by Pepper Basham

This is a popular book in my corner of bookstagram, and I was on the library waiting list for some time.  Unfortunately, I didn't care for the female main character's over-the-top naivete combined with her mature reactions to the male main character.  It's hard to explain, but suffice it to say that it wasn't to my taste.  This is a reminder to me that I've already tried it, so when it pops up on my radar again I won't feel like I'm missing out. 

December 2025 Wrap Up

I made a new tab this month and wanted to point it out.  I've read all the way through the 20th century and am working my way through the 19th.  I thought it would be fun to share it on my blog.  Here is the link: Reading Through the Centuries

Books Read:

The Cricket on the Hearth: A Fairy Tale of Home by Charles Dickens (1845) 3/5 stars

This 80 page novella is marketed as a Christmas tale, but there was no mention of Christmas, nor did it give me a festive, holiday feel.  It was a sweet story overall, though with little meat to it.  In addition, the "villian" of the piece made an abrupt 180° that just wasn't believable.  As with everything I've read by Dickens (and that's a goodly amount), I liked it in general, but I certainly didn't love it.

A Seasonal Pursuit by Rebecca Connolly (2024)  3/5 stars

Regency Christmas Brides, book 1

The plot of this no-spice Christmastide romance was sweet, and I liked Rose's character development.  However, it does not have a true feel of the Regency period; in fact it could have been placed anywhere in a hundred year time frame and felt as legitimate.  (The downside of being an amateur historian is being extra sensitive to historical detail.)  This is part of a multi-author series, best read in order.

The Crystal Realm: A Collection of Retold Christmas Tales by Abigail Manning (2022)  3/5 stars

This is a set of three interconnected Christmassy stories that retell A Christmas Carol, "The Gingerbread Man" and The Nutcracker.  They are sweet and imaginative, but don't have the depth or maturity of the author's more recent books.

The Midnight Blizzard by Mary Mecham (2024)  4/5 stars

This is a no-spice wintery retelling of "Cinderella", with magic, blackmail, sled dogs, forbidden love, and nods to "The Twelve Days of Christmas".  It's well-written, interesting, and a good deal of fun.

Christmastide in Emerald Falls by Angela E. Johnson (2024)  3/5 stars

Men, Mistletoe, and Marriage series, book 1 

This is a retelling of the movie It's a Wonderful Life, set in a village in Regency England, with a no-spice second-chance romance.  There were several things that did not feel like England or that time period, but it was such a sweet, fun, and even moving story that I forgave it's faults and simply enjoyed it.  (This is part of a multi-author series, best read in order.)

The Abbot's Ghost, or Maurice Treherne's Temptation: A Christmas Story by (Louisa May Alcott writing as) A.M. Barnard (1867)  4/5 stars

This novella is a typical Victorian melodrama, with love triangles, ghostly apparitions, evil intentions thwarted, and virtue rewarded.  As such, it's completely enjoyable and worth reading for those, like me, who enjoy that genre.

The Christmas Bride by Grace Livingston Hill (1934)  3/5 stars

This is a gentle romance with a strong Christian message.  Though I don't fully agree with the author's theology, it is still a pleasure to read such unabashed faith.  

Mr. Campion's Christmas by Mike Ripley (2024)  4/5 start

Mr. Campion series, book 12

Ripley has written a series that continues the adventures of Margery Allingham's Campion.  This is the first one I have read and I absolutely loved it.  The well-written story still had the feel of Allingham's books and kept the familiar cast.  While listed as a mystery, it is (like the originals) more of an adventure or thriller, with an exciting (if improbable) plot that was satisfying, engaging, and completely enjoyable.  As a long-time Campion fan, I'll certainly read more of this series.

Audiobooks Completed:

Can You Forgive Her? by Anthony Trollope (1865)  5/5 stars

The Palliser Novels, book 1

This was a reread and I loved it even more this time.  My original review is found here.

The Finishing Stroke by Ellery Queen (1958)  3/5 stars

Ellery Queen mysteries, book 26

This Christmas house party mystery was a great deal of fun -- until the let down of the complicated solution.

Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor by Roseanna M. White (2024)  4/5 stars

This is a short, gentle romance with a strong Christian message.  It's well-written and entertaining, and though did not deliver as much of "The Nutcracker" storyline as I expected from the blurb, I still enjoyed it greatly.

Something Wicked by E.X. Ferrars (1983)  4/5 stars

Andrew Basnett mysteries, book 1 

In this well-written and fun mystery, a 70 year-old retired professor finds a dying man in his cottage a few days after Christmas and, being a good listener, picks up enough information to solve the crime.  
 

Did Not Finish:

Rules of a Ruse by Laura Beer

Regency Christmas Brides, book 2

This Regency Christmas romance has a 21-year-old woman successfully running a horse farm for the past two years.  That was so unbelievable for the time period that I almost didn't make it past the first chapter.  It is connects to the story of A Seasonal Pursuit, though, so I pushed through despite things that didn't feel historically true*.  With 2 1/2 hours left of the audiobook, though, I simply couldn't go on.  (*For example, the hero is disgusted by a Scottish dish because it was made from boiled calves' trotters, despite the fact that calf's foot jelly was a standard delicacy at that time.)

A Lovely White Christmastide by Teah Kemp Weight

Men, Mistletoe, and Marriage series, book 2

This is a Regency retelling of my favorite movie, White Christmas, so I wanted to love it. I was also looking forward to it because it continues with characters from Christmastide in Emerald Falls.   Sadly the book was so untrue to the time period* that I finally gave up 46% through-- with a feeling of relief, I might add.  Those that love the movie and aren't as conscious of historical inaccuracies might enjoy it, though, due to all the fun parallels to the movie. (*For example, the two sisters rode for hours in a carriage with two unrelated men, while their chaperone travelled in a separate vehicle.  Despite the author's attempt to justify the situation, it is simply unbelievable.)

The Vanishing Place by Zoe Rankin

It caught my attention from the beginning with great writing and an intense plot.  When I realized, though, that it was going to be a series of bad things happening to children, I decided to stop.  

November 2025 Wrap Up

Books Read:

The Rose and the Yew Tree by (Agatha Christie writing as) Mary Westmacott (1947)  4/5 stars

The complex and layered story is not pleasant and the characters mostly unlikable, yet it's a completely engrossing novel, and a fine example of Christie's talent outside of mysteries.

 An Afternoon Walk by Dorothy Eden (1971)  4/5 stars

I was completely hooked by this suspense novel and devoured it in about 24 hours.  Though I felt the ending was too quick, it's a totally entertaining read, full of tension and uncertainty. 

Bride of Pendorric by Victoria Holt  (1963)  4/5 stars

This is a lightly romantic novel of gothic suspense which was fully entertaining and engrossing.  

The Locked Ward by Sarah Pekkanen (2025)  3/5 stars

This thriller had a compelling start, but fizzled out to an underwhelming ending.

Wait for What Will Come by (Elizabeth Peters writing as) Barbara Michaels (1978)  3/5 stars

This gothic thriller had a complicated and sometimes silly plot, but it was still quite enjoyable. 

Whistle for the Crows by Dorothy Eden (1962)  3/5 stars

A gothic thriller/mystery that, while not fully believable, was still engrossing and entertaining. 

The Copenhagen Connection by Elizabeth Peters (1982)  3/5 stars

An improbable but still enjoyable mystery.

Audiobooks Completed:

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum (1900)  4/5 stars

I don't care for the movie, but I found the book (which is a good deal different from the film) to be generally enjoyable, though Baum's writing isn't strong enough to make me want to read more of the series right away.  Like traditional fairy tales, it's a bit violent here and there, but overall this imaginative story is a fun read and I can see how it influenced other later fantasy writers.

I only completed one audiobook this month, as, after many, many starts and stops, I began a reread of the first of the long Palliser novels by Trollope.

Did Not Finish:

Fragile Designs by Colleen Coble 

One Small Lie by Colleen Coble

I mostly enjoyed the first book I read by Coble, and though I could only give it three stars, I was interesting in reading more of her thrillers.  Neither of these two worked for me, though, due to credibility issues; I doubt I'll try any more.

House at Riverton by Kate Morton

Morton seems to be really hit-or-miss with me -- I've read and enjoyed two, and stopped midway with another two.  This makes the third I've not finished, though I really tried.  Ten hours into the audiobook, with ten still left to go, I just had to give up.  I own two more by her, but am really hesitant to try them now. 

The 7 1/2 Deaths of Evelyn Hardcastle by Stuart Turton

This popular time travel-mystery/suspense was not a good fit for me.

Everyone Is Lying to You by Jo Piazza 

Another popular suspense that just wasn't for me.

The Mind Readers by Margery Allingham

This is my second time trying this penultimate Campion novel; for some reason I'm just not able to get into it.

An Old-Fashioned Girl by Louisa May Alcott

Just wasn't what I was in the mood for at the time.

The Christmas Egg by Mary Kelly

This is from the British Library Crime Classics collection so I was eager to read it, but I found it to be hard to follow.  It's probably a case of "it's not you, it's me".

October 2025 WrapUp

Books Read:

Darkwater by Dorothy Eden (1963)  4/5 stars

(original title The Bird in the Chimney)

This is an entertaining mystery/suspense taking place on the moors in Victorian England. It was easy to pinpoint the villian, and one thing was never answered to my satisfaction, but regardless, I found it atmospheric, enjoyable, and engrossing.

Jack by Susan May Warren (2025)  3/5 stars

The Minnesota Kingstons, book 1

This mystery/suspense/light romance begins a series about the Kingston siblings, focusing on Jack, the eldest Kingston, involving both his search for a missing person, and his reintroduction to a girl from his past.  This book connects to a previous series (apparently many of the author's books share characters), so I was lost at first as to who everyone was.  In addition, there's a side plot that seemed to be unconnected but apparently goes throughout the series, culminating in the final book. Finally, Warren uses the word "aw" numerous times throughout the book, in a way that didn't always make sense to me.  Despite these difficulties, I generally enjoyed the book, and would consider reading more of the author's books, but I would start with an earlier series to keep from being so confused about the characters and their relationships.

A Stranger's Game by Colleen Coble (2022)  3/5 stars

I was engrossed by this mystery/thriller right up until the solution, when I felt letdown because the pieces didn't all fit well.  I did enjoy it enough that I would be willing to try another by the author, though.

The Shadow Realm: A Collection of Retold Halloween Tales by  Abigail Manning (2023)  4/5 stars

This novella reinvents three classic stories (Dracula, The Invisible Man, and Pinocchio) as curses that have been cast on three female friends.  The wholesome plot follows each girl as she grows and changes for the better, overcomes her curse, and finds true love.  It's a quick and enjoyable read, full of fun, humor, and autumn vibes.

This Rotting Heart by Celeste Baxendell (2025) 5/5 stars 

Because I loved Baxendell's Ties of Starlight (another five star read -- my review is here), I started this no-spice fantasy without reading the blurb, and man am I glad I did because all the plot was a surprise for me. This well-written romantic drama is humorous, sometimes moving, and fully engrossing.  (I read it in less than 24 hours.)  Baxendell brings both the characters and her original world alive, and her creative plot is wonderful.  I highly recommend this stand-alone page-turner, and suggest you go into it blind to get the full amount of enjoyment from it.

Waiting for Willa by Dorothy Eden (1970) 3/5 stars 

This is a somewhat silly yet completely entertaining mystery/suspense.

The Deadly Travelers by Dorothy Eden (1959)  4/5 stars

Kate takes a job of escorting a seven-year-old from Rome to London.  When the little girl disappears on the train, it starts a series of dangerous adventures for Kate as she seeks to find answers.  This mystery/suspense was completely enjoyable, if far-fetched, and kept my attention gripped so that I read it in less than two days. 

A Noble Companion by Rachel Kovaciny (2024)  4/5 stars

In this is sweet, nonmagical fantasy tale, Madelena and her friend Javier go on an adventure to find a dragon's hoard to pay for her dowry.  It is well-written, entertaining, and wholesome, with a positive Christian message.  

Audiobooks Completed:

The Prisoner of Zenda by Anthony Hope (1894)  5/5 stars  (my review here)

Rupert of Hentzau by Anthony Hope (1898) 4/5 stars  (my review here)

Dr. Wortle's School by Anthony Trollope (1879)  4/5 stars

This is typical Trollope -- well-written, entertaining, and amusing.

Did Not Finish:

The Murder of Mr. Wickham by Claudia Gray

I really liked how the author tied Austen's characters together socially, but I didn't care for her interpretation of their personalities or how the plot was developing. 

Summer Lightning by P.G. Wodehouse

I hate to sound like one of his critics, but sometimes one Wodehouse IS like all the others.  I had not read this one, yet it felt so familiar that despite it often being laugh-out-loud funny, I gave up early on.

Gallows Court by Martin Edwards

I made it 65% but it turned out to be too grim, unsettling, and gruesome for my taste. 

September 2025 Wrap Up

Books Read:

You Are Fatally Invited by Ande Pliego (2025)  3/5 stars

This is a fast-paced, compelling and entertaining thriller that I read in just over 24 hours.  Unfortunately, not all the pieces fit snugly and the solution wasn't believable, even by that genre's standards.  I still enjoyed it enough that I would certainly try this debut author's next offering in the future.

The Case of Alan Copeland by Moray Dalton (1937)  3/5 stars

This started off really well, with a net of lies tightening around the titular character in a way that gave a tense atmosphere to the book.  As it progressed, though, there was very little deducing, the courtroom drama was repetitive, and the solution lacked emotional punch.  Dalton is one of my favorite Golden Age crime writers, but this is not a good example of her work. 

Manor for Sale, Baron Included by Esther Hatch (2021)  3/5 stars

A Romance of Rank, book 1

This is a sweet, clean, historical rom-com and while it's not my usual genre, I did enjoy it.  As a long-time reader of  Victorian literature and nonfiction, I have to say that it definitely didn't have a convincing Victorian era feel, but it's still a fun read.

Bride by Candlelight by Dorothy Eden (1954)  3/5 stars

A young woman arrives in New Zealand to marry a man she hasn't seen in years, only to find him, his family, and his situation different from what she was expecting.  Most of the mystery was easy to figure out, but with the gothic atmosphere and prevailing sense of unease, it was still highly entertaining.

Bridge of Fear by Dorothy Eden (1961)  4/5 stars

In this mystery/suspense, a young bride comes to a new country and discovers that her husband isn't what she thought him to be.  This was a quick read, full of tension and uncertainty.  I figured out a good portion, but it was completely engrossing and entertaining.    

Cat's Prey by Dorothy Eden (1952)  4/5 stars

In this novel of suspense, Antonia travels to New Zealand to visit a cousin and receive a legacy, only to find mystery, danger, and romance.  This is a surprisingly complex story, with an engrossing plot that was highly entertaining

On the Night of the Seventh Moon by Victoria Holt (1972)  3/5 stars

A Victorian teenager, finishing her last year in a German school, meets and falls in love with a romantic stranger, opening the door to deception and danger.  This book is simultaneously silly, predictable, and a page-turner, but definitely not in the gothic genre for which Holt was best known.  It's the only book I've read by this popular author, but based on the entertainment value of this one, I'd be willing to try another.

Audiobooks Completed:

Murder at the Spring Ball by Benedict Brown (2021)  3/5 stars

Lord Edgington Investigates #1

This is a cozy mystery taking place in England in the 1920s; the atmosphere was mostly believable, except for the progressive ideas of Lord Edgington.  The plot was far-fetched and the solution required a suspension of belief that, taken with lead characters that weren't fully likable, made this just an okay read.  This is the first of what has become a well-liked fifteen-book series; I own the next in the series, so I may try it later to see if it's a better fit for me.

Trent's Last Case by E.C. Bentley (1913)  4/5 stars

This classic mystery is well-written, intriguing, and engrossing.  I can certainly see why it was so popular at publication and has remained well-regarded.

The Perfect King: The Life of Edward III, Father of the English Nation by Ian Mortimer (2006)  5/5 stars

This fantastic biography is easy to follow, well-written, detailed, and fascinating.  I highly recommend it if you have an interest in medieval England. 

Did Not Finish:

Quite frankly, it's amazing I actually finished as much as I did this month, what with start-stopping so many others!

Finlay Donovan Is Killing It by Elle Cosimano

I didn't find her mess of a life a bit funny and before the first chapter was over, I knew it wasn't for me.

The Historian by Elizabeth Kostova 

She has a character disparagingly refer to Stoker as "disturbed and melodramatic", and then proceeds to one-up him with this overwrought and pretentious vampire tale.

The Midnight Feast by Lucy Foley

This is my third attempt at Foley's thrillers.  The first one I did finish -- it was three stars; the second I did not.  I didn't make it far in this one before I decided it just wasn't for me.  This is a reminder to my future self that Foley and I just aren't meant to be.

Ivanhoe by Sir Walter Scott

I've never read this classic, and gave it a good try.  I enjoyed the first five chapters a good deal, but was unable to stomach the brutal antisemitism of that time period.  I wouldn't hesitate to try another novel by Scott, but I don't think this one is a good fit for me.

The Booklover's Library by Madeline Martin

It started off really good, but as the conflicts and drama increased, I found it wasn't a good fit for me. 

 

Six Suspects by Vikas Swarup

It appeared to be a mystery that I would love, taking place in India with a varied cast of characters, and with lots of backstory and development.  After a several chapters, though, I realized that Swarup's style, word choices, and interests were not my taste, so I gave up.

Ravenscroft by Dorothy Eden

I enjoyed the three by Eden that I read prior to this one, but an unpalatable scene ruined this one for me.

The Other Mrs. by Mary Kubica

This was my second time trying and not finishing one of Kubica's books.  This is a reminder to myself that her thrillers are too full of characters with drama for me, and not to try again.

Slow Horses by Mick Herron

This is my second time trying this popular mystery/thriller/espionage series, but for some reason, I just can't connect with the plot or characters.  This is a reminder to myself to not try again.

The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas

Have I dnf'd this one or not?  I'm still not sure.  The discussion of my problems can be found here.

August 2025 Wrap Up

Books Read:

The Amazing Adventures of Letitia Carberry by Mary Roberts Rinehart (1911)  3/5 stars

The Tish series, book 1

This book contains a novella and two short stories, all of which are laugh-out-loud funny and hugely entertaining.  The solution to the novella's mystery came sort of out of the blue, but, as this is one of Rinehart's earliest published works, she was still developing her talent and style.  I will definitely read more of Tish's adventures!  (edit: I started the next one but didn't enjoy it enough to finish; there are more in the series, so maybe I'll try another.)

Clothes-Pegs by Susan Scarlett (1939)  4/5 stars

(Susan Scarlett is a pseudonym of popular children's author Noel Streatfeild.)

This is a sweet, nicely-written romance that was so entertaining I stayed up late to finish it. I enjoyed the blend of light humor with the various dramatic plotlines, and the slice-of-life it depicted.  I'll certainly read more of her novels.

Ella and the Elf  by Anabelle Raven (2024)  3/5 stars

Elves & Legends, book 1

This is a mix of the Cinderella tale with the author's original world, populated by elves and humans.  Because it was relatively short, the relationships (friends and otherwise) solidified quickly and the plot was thin on details.  Despite that, I enjoyed it and immediately started the next in the series.

Marian and the Elf  by Anabelle Raven (2024)  3/5 stars

Elves & Legends, book 2

This is no-spice fantasy about a human princess rescued by an elf pirate, who work together to try for peace between their races.  It's subtitled "a reimagined Robin Hood", but there were very few elements of the legend involved.  It's generally enjoyable, but there are dark themes running throughout, which keep it from being a fun read. Overall I liked it, but I wasn't drawn deeply into the world or the story.

Cold Silence by Susan Sleeman (2024) 4/5 stars 

Cold Harbor series, book 0.5 

This Christian romantic-suspense may not be the most believable story, but it's a fast-paced, engrossing, and highly entertaining read that I devoured in two days.  I will certainly read more by the author.

Audiobooks Completed:

The Swimming Pool by Mary Roberts Rinehart (1952)  4/5 stars

This mystery is well-written, entertaining, and nicely complex.  I always finds Rinehart's "had I but known" style to be amusing, but the great characters, twisty plot, and laugh-out loud moments made it well above average.

Vanishing Point by Patricia Wentworth (1953)  4/5 stars

Miss Silver mysteries, book 24

Even though the solution was improbable in bits, the story as a whole was highly entertaining.  The Miss Silver series may be "fluff" mysteries, but I still enjoy them a good deal.

Medieval Horizons: Why the Middle Ages Matter by Ian Mortimer (2023)  5/5 stars

Dr. Mortimer provides a convincing and compelling argument that fundamental and revolutionary changes occurred during the Middle Ages that "unlocked humanity's potential" and set-up transitions that were responsible for creating the world as we know it today. It is well-written, easy-to-follow, and extremely enlightening.  (He also does a fine job of narrating the audiobook.)

Enthroned by K.M. Shea (2013)  3/5 stars

King Arthur and Her Knights, book 1

This is a cute fantasy about a twenty-something American girl being transported back in time by Merlin to become King Arthur.  My problems are two-fold.  One is that it's very short, novella length, in fact.  As a result, there is not much character growth and it feels like the set-up for the next installment, instead of a full novel in its own right.  I checked and, with the exception of the seventh and final book, they are all 126 pages or less, meaning that they are going to be episodes in Britt's life as King Arthur, and not books per se, a publication method that I dislike.

Second, is the historical aspect.  I know, I know, this is fantasy.  But as a history nerd, I know that Arthur would have lived around the 5th century, not long after the Romans left Britain.  What Shea is showing here is the image of Arthur created by the lordly classes during the 13th century.  If Britt had been drawn back in time by Merlin, it would certainly not have been to wear chainmail and live in a castle.

So yes, this is a fun little story, I already own the whole series, and I have enjoyed a lot of this author's fantasy novels previously.  Unfortunately, though, I think I'm going to give the rest a miss and take a loss on the purchase cost.  Call it the curse of being an arm-chair historian.

Sidney Padget's original illustration for
The Hound of the Baskervilles

The Hound of the Baskervilles by Arthur Conan Doyle (1902)  5/5 stars

The Sherlock Holmes series, book 5 

I enjoyed this reread even better than the last; enough so that I raised it to five stars.  It's extremely entertaining, well-written, and even suspenseful at times.  I love how the reader gets to know Watson's charming and sweet personality so well in this story, and Holmes is near perfection as an eccentric character.  Overall, it's one that I would highly recommend as a first read for anyone new to the Holmes canon.

The Moor by Laurie R. King (1998)  4/5 stars

The Mary Russell and Sherlock Holmes series, book 4 

This is my third time reading this one, and it is definitely a top favorite of this series.  King blends fiction and history so well and believably.  I loved learning about the eccentric Reverend Sabine Baring-Gould enough to do a good deal of research on him.  I would suggest that the reader be familiar with The Hound of the Baskervilles first, and I was glad that I did a reread of it immediately prior.

Did Not Finish

I started and stopped so many this month that I couldn't keep track of them all.  These were the most memorable failures for me.  

Fer-de-Lance by Rex Stout

As the Nero Wolfe books are written during the 1930s, my favorite crime novel era, I felt a bit ashamed at never having read one.  This was the first of the series, and I'm sure they get better, but I didn't feel any connection to the plot, the narrator, or Wolfe, and quit about half-way through.  

Down Under by Patricia Wentworth

I usually enjoy even her most far-fetched mystery/suspense, but this one was just too absurd.

July 2025 Wrap Up

 Books Read:

The American Gun Mystery by Ellery Queen (1933)  3/5 stars

Ellery Queen series, book 6

It started as a fun and interesting mystery with the typical Ellery Queen set-up, but became less enjoyable and more convoluted as it progressed, and ended with an unsatisfying solution.

Printer's Error by Gladys Mitchell (1939)  3/5 stars

Mrs. Bradley mysteries, book 10

I loved parts of the book, and early on it was interesting and intriguing.  Sadly, I found it to be disappointing overall and a below-average example of the author's work.

The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien (1954)  5/5 stars

The Lord of the Rings, book 2

I'll admit I didn't enjoy this one as much this time around.  The second half with Sam and Frodo moves more slowly than I remembered, and is much less exciting than the adventures everyone else is having in the first part.  It's still a five star book, simply an amazing tale, but not my favorite of the series. 

Brazen Tongue by Gladys Mitchell (1940)  4/5 stars

Mrs. Bradley mysteries, book 11

In the early days of WWII, three people are murdered in a small town.  Mrs. Bradley becomes involved and eventually solves the twisty, complex case.  This is another interesting, engaging, and entertaining mystery, full of clues both false and true.  Mrs. Bradley's amoral personality has gradually shifted in the series, becoming more typical of the times, so it was fun to see her make another of her godlike decisions.

The Colour of Magic by Terry Pratchett (1983)  3/5 stars

Discworld, book 1

This was a reread and I didn't enjoy it nearly as much as I have previously.  Maybe from familiarity, or maybe because it was more coarse in places than I remembered.  Nonetheless, while it is definitely not Pratchett's best or my favorite, it is a good deal of fun and begins a great series.  

A note on the series as a whole: There are various orders you can read them in but I do feel it's best to go in chronological order the first time, even though the first three are just average. The world grows exponentially and Pratchett's talent expands enormously as the series progresses, so it's better to experience them that way first.   

The King's Captive by K.M. Shea (2022)  4/5 stars

Gate of Myth and Power trilogy, book 1 

This no-spice urban fantasy was such fun!  It's well-written, humous, entertaining, and entirely engrossing. 

The King's Shadow by K.M. Shea (2023)  4/5 stars

Gate of Myth and Power trilogy, book 2

Just as good as the first book, with more emotion and humor thrown in.  

The King's Queen by K.M. Shea (2023)  3/5 stars

Gate of Myth and Power trilogy, book 3

I loved this no-spice urban fantasy trilogy as a whole -- characters, plot, sweet romance -- but there were unanswered questions and unresolved issues that kept this final book from being  four stars.   Don't let that dissuade you from reading the series, though; Shea writes such fun books!

 

Magic Forged by K.M. Shea (2020)  4/5 stars

Hall of Blood and Mercy trilogy, book 1 

This is a fun, engaging, and fully entertaining no-spice urban fantasy.  It's the start of a trilogy, and I ate it up in two days and immediately started the next.  Shea is definitely my go-to author when I need an urban fantasy fix.

Magic Redeemed by K.M. Shea (2020)  4/5 stars

Hall of Blood and Mercy trilogy, book 2 

This continuation of Hazel's story was so good, adding more emotion, depth and high-stakes to the series.   It's well-written, completely engrossing, and just plain fun -- so much so, in fact, that I read it in just under two days.

 

Magic Unleashed by K.M. Shea (2020)  4/5 stars

Hall of Blood and Mercy trilogy, book 3 

This is a well-written and engrossing book, full of action, fun, and swoony moments that perfectly wrapped up the trilogy.

Audiobooks Completed:

The Wall by Mary Roberts Rinehart (1938)  4/5 stars

This is a complex mystery with a lot of false clues, circumstances, and misleading facts that kept me highly entertained from start to finish.  There are readers who don't appreciate Rinehart's signature "had I but known" style, but I find it a good deal of fun.   

The Witness for the Prosecution and Other Stories by Agatha Christie (1932)  4/5 stars

I had read some of these short stories in other collections, but certainly enjoyed the ones that were new-to-me, especially the excellent "The Witness for the Prosecution".

The Silent Pool by Patricia Wentworth (1956)  3/5 stars

Miss Silver mysteries, book 25

This follows the typical Miss Silver formula, and, though too easy to solve, is entertaining and enjoyable.

The Plantagenets: The Warrior Kings and Queens Who Made England by Dan Jones (2015)  5/5 stars

This is a surprisingly in-depth one-volume account of the around 250 years of Plantagenet rule in England.  It's easy to follow, despite all the details, and was entertaining as well as informative.  

All Shall Be Well by Deborah Crombie (1994)  3/5 stars

Duncan Kincaid & Gemma James mysteries, book 2

As with the first of the series, I enjoyed the writing, the plot, and the characters.  I was disappointed with the solution and lack of clues, though, but will give the author another try.

Leave the Grave Green by Deborah Crombie (1995)  3/5 stars

Duncan Kincaid & Gemma James mysteries, book 3

The mystery itself was interesting, though not satisfying, but the personal relationships of the detectives ruined the series for me. 

Third Girl by Agatha Christie (1966)  3/5 stars

Hercule Poirot series, book 40

Christie's later works are not always a good example of her skill and talent, as this one shows.  It hinges a lot on coincidence and rambles a bit.  It's still mostly entertaining, even as a reread, but not one I would recommend to new readers.

Did Not Finish:

Hangman's Curfew by Gladys Mitchell

I've been enjoying this series, but, by 38%, I was completely lost.  I wasn't invested enough to start again to see what I was missing, so I decided to skip this one. 

May 2025 Wrap-Up

Books Read:

The Treasure of the Lake by H. Rider Haggard (1926)  4/5 stars

This posthumously published tale is another fun African adventure narrated by the reluctant hero, Allan Quatermain.  Some views and opinions are dated, of course, but otherwise it's a good yarn -- even if it will remind the reader of Haggard's 1887 novel She.

Ties of Legacy by Melanie Cellier  (2025) 4/5 stars

Kingdoms of Legacy, book 1.5

This is a charming no-spice romantic fantasy about Elliot, whose life is bound to a brass candlestick -- if he gets separated from it, he will weaken and eventually die. By accident, he becomes additionally linked to Avery, a pretty, spunky travelling merchant.   Working together, they seek for a solution to Elliot's affliction. 

This is part of "Tethered Hearts", a multi-author series of (supposedly) stand-alone novels with a similar theme.  Unfortunately, not having read any of Cellier's other books from the "Kingdoms of Legacy" series, I struggled to fully understand this fictional world at first.  Once I got it sorted out, and accepted that there were bits I just wasn't going to comprehend fully, I enjoyed the story immensely.  I will most likely read more by this author, in particular the series mentioned.

Ties of Starlight by Celeste Baxendell (2025)  5/5/ stars

It's hard to explain the plot without spoiling it, so I will simply say that it's a no-spice romantic fantasy about an Elf King and a half-human woman, marrying to fulfil an important ritual for the aid of their race.  The plot and world-building are fantastic, and I was drawn in immediately, genuinely concerned for the characters, and could hardly put the book down.  (I read it in less than twenty-four hours.) The writing is solid, and the book presents a strong positive message in addition.  I look forward to reading more by this author.  (This is part of the "Tethered Hearts" series as well.)

Hardy Haul at Hardy Hall by PJ Fitzsimmons (2024) 4/5 stars

Teddy Quillfeather Mysteries, book 1

Teddy, a young flapper, is at a house party when a valuable necklace is stolen.  Being something of master of the heist herself, she determines to find the culprit, while avoiding marriage proposals, swilling cocktails, and entertaining a penguin.  This is an intelligent, twisty, laugh-out-loud non-murder mystery which is just as well-written and entertaining as those featuring her cousin, the author's other main character, Anty Boisjoly.  

Ties of Deception by Alice Ivinya  (2025)  4/5 stars

This is a well-written,  no-spice fantasy about a newborn and naive grace, a god of death, an evil plan, and layer after layer of deceit.  The plot is twisty, complicated, and engrossing with characters I genuinely cared about and liked. The world is so complex that the author was forced to do a large info dump twice, but I did understand the need for it and appreciated the scope and depth.   I found part of the conclusion unsatisfying, but overall, the book was thoroughly enjoyable.  (This is part of the "Tethered Hearts" series as well.)

Gladys Mitchell

Speedy Death by Gladys Mitchell (1929)  4/5 stars

Mrs. Bradley mysteries, book one

Psychoanalyst Mrs. Bradley is visiting friends when a murder occurs, so, using her professional observational skills, she works to discover the culprit.  I really enjoyed this engaging and well-written mystery, despite the sometimes obvious answers.  It was fun, a little bizarre, and had a great ending.  I will definitely read more of the series, because I need to know more about Mrs. Bradley.

Ties of Bargains by Tara Grayce (2025)  4/5 stars

In this no-spice romantic fantasy, Val, a fae mercenary is tasked with delivering her human "package", Harmen, to the Court of Queen Mab -- never imagining that the trip would become both complicated and life-changing.  It takes place in Grayce's existing fairy universe, The Court of Midsummer Mayhem; I had never read any books in that series, but had no problems understanding the world or situations.  I loved  Val and Harm, their backstories, and the character growth they experienced.  Harmen comes from a Dutch-inspired culture, which was unusual and nicely done.  The plot is both gripping and fun, and I enjoyed it immensely.  I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.  (This is part of the "Tethered Hearts" series as well.)

The Mystery of a Butcher's Shop by Gladys Mitchell (1929)  4/5 stars

Mrs. Bradley mysteries, book two

This is another twisty and engaging (if gruesome) mystery featuring Mrs. Bradley -- and another great ending, as well.  Mrs. Bradley is an intriguing character and I look forward to reading more.

Ties of Death by Constance Lopez (2025)  4/5 stars

The king of the Gryphon Rider Clan has been cursed with a death magic that threatens all around him.  The only solution he can find is to kidnap and marry his childhood friend whose peaceful magic balances his.   I read this no-spice fantasy in less than two days and enjoyed it immensely. It is immediately attention-grabbing, and stays engaging throughout with a plot full of action, conflict, and romance.  The slow reveal of the true inner selves of the characters is nicely done, and the world is interesting and well-built.  I will definitely read more by this author.  (This is part of the "Tethered Hearts" series as well.)

Audiobooks Completed:

Matilda: Empress, Queen, Warrior by Catherine Hanley (2019)  3/5 stars
This biography of the Medieval almost-Queen-of-England was interesting, if dry at times, but Hanley makes many suppositions based on what she believes she knows of Matilda's personality, weakening the credibility of the information.

Daughters of Chivalry: The Forgotten Children of King Edward Longshanks by Kelcey Wilson-Lee (2019)  3/5 stars

I'm giving this a generous three stars because it was obvious that the author was passionate about sharing the lives of these five women, and the verifiable information was truly interesting.  However, the lack of direct sources available resulted in a superfluity of words and phrases such as "might have", "probably", "suggests", "almost certainly", and "likely", forcing the reader to wade through the suppositions to find the facts.  I understand the difficulty of writing about people less documented, and I do appreciate the author's purpose.   However, with all the thoughts and feelings the author assumes based on circumstances and personality, this book would have worked better as historical fiction. 

Around the World in Eighty Days by Jules Verne (1872)  4/5 stars

This is one of my favorite adventure stories, and I enjoyed this reread a good deal.  It's dated and biased, of course, but it's still a fun, humorous, and engaging tale.  

Did Not Finish:

Shady Hollow by Juneau Black

This is a cozy mystery taking place in a town of anthropomorphic animals -- what's not to love?  Apparently, for me, a lot. 

Henrietta Maria: The Warrior Queen Who Divided a Nation by Leanda de Lisle

For a biography, it was quite vulgar and not at all to my taste.  I listened for just over an hour, hoping the factual information would be worth the unappealing bits, but finally had to give up.

Streams of Gold, Rivers of Blood: The Rise and Fall of Byzantium, 955 AD to the First Crusade by  Anthony Kaldellis

I was lost in a sea of names, places, and Greek terms.