This is the last book in the Madeline Finn series. I almost feel sad that this is the case. I have thorou“To those who look for blessings everywhere.”
This is the last book in the Madeline Finn series. I almost feel sad that this is the case. I have thoroughly loved being in Madeline’s universe, along with the dogs.
In this story, it is more than about dogs. It includes all animals who are present to receive the Blessing. The Blessing of the Animals, is held around October 4th each year. It honors St. Francis of Assisi, the patron saint of animals and the environment. This is an opportunity for animals to receive a special blessing from a priest or minister in celebration of the bond between humans and animals.
The book highlights the event with a special blessing for both dogs, Bonnie and Star.
“Everyone has a blessing inside. We just have to look for it.”
How can you not be touched by such a thoughtful book for children? Especially as it teaches how animals can be such a gift of grace in our lives.
And, the character Miss Mary reminds Madeline that each of us has a gift to share. Leaving any child or parent or teacher with this question to contemplate…
What gift is ours to share?
And, are we ready to set it free?
As well as, how can this help those waiting for their forever homes that are still in the shelters?
“You’re my little blessing.”
For anyone looking for a book to share with kids, this series is a gift. A blessing. And, a wonderful reading experience for people of all ages.
Age Level: 4 – 8 years+ - Reading Level: preK – 3rd grade+
In my haste to give up on reading too many different mystery series, I forgot that I like this one, too. This book series, features DCI Karen Pirie whIn my haste to give up on reading too many different mystery series, I forgot that I like this one, too. This book series, features DCI Karen Pirie who works in the Scottish Highlands. Who could resist reading a story based in an area with such scenic beauty?
Also, I love how real the characters feel. Especially when they say certain things that are relatable. Like when Detective Chief Inspector Niven is reflecting on how things have changed with him since Covid.
Setting…
He is at the scene of the crime, and he is reflecting how much it reminds him of the last film he saw in a movie theater since the pandemic. His thoughts reveal…
“These days, he’d lost the desire to sit in a confined space with a lot of strangers at close quarters.”
I can totally appreciate that feeling. Thank goodness for television streaming which brings the movie directly to us in our own comfy, cozy homes. Which leads readers eventually to…
“A TV series, that’s a different kind of justice.”
Speaking of which, what happens to the concept and reality of achieving justice with cold cases?
DCI Karen Pirie and her team are handed a couple of cold cases. One came at them via a highway mudslide and bones discovered. Who was this person and how did they end up there?
Another cold case to be investigated occurred because a character wasn’t convinced his brother accidentally died. He felt there was something more sinister that occurred. Perhaps murder? Why? What new evidence surfaced that could lead to this conclusion?
In this fast-paced, page-turning police procedural, readers will be thrust into a steady momentum of action as the team tries to reconcile the limited evidence, to get to the truth.
Pirie is a sharp, strong woman character who despite whatever personal stresses may be going on, will stand up for her team and what she believes in to get at the truth. With a strong well-developed supporting cast of characters, readers get the sense of camaraderie and effective detection skills that will lead them towards answers.
So, what happens when Pirie’s team discover the truth? Will justice prevail? Will families get the closure they deserve for their loved ones? And, will the powerful be held accountable?
In this scenic atmospheric series, with realistic characters and complicated cold cases, readers will appreciate the work it took to confront the wrongs, even if the outcome is not expected.
Short chapters also helped, for what may have been considered an otherwise intimidating sizeable book of 432 pages. Could it have been shorter with less of the character’s personal life details? Probably. But it still delivered good action and sleuthing to keep readers engaged.
And, for those who are new to the series, the author does an appreciable job of catch-up, so that this could be read as a stand-alone, or at least remind regular series followers of what occurred last. Especially when it may have been a while since reading the last book in the series. Of course, if one is looking for a series to start, best to start from the beginning to get a full understanding of the characters history....more
I want to thank my Goodreads friends, Rosh and Darla, for always recommending such great children’s books to read. And, of course, I am typically partI want to thank my Goodreads friends, Rosh and Darla, for always recommending such great children’s books to read. And, of course, I am typically partial to any books that feature animals – especially, dogs!
When I read and reviewed “Madeline Finn and the Shelter Dog,” both Rosh and Darla encouraged me to read this one, too. Stephen Wallace another Goodreads friend, who also only reviews dog books, wanted me to read the whole series. For anyone interested in my review of ‘…the Shelter Dog,’ see below.
In regards to this book, how could we possibly ignore a library dog? And, when it is presented with a cover like this, can you feel yourself swooning, a bit? Books everywhere and Madeline, our main character, leaning against a gorgeous white dog, named Bonnie.
On a personal note, I’d like to share how valuable it is to have library dogs. They are so healing and encouraging in so many ways, because young children can read to the dog in the library.
As an example, our local library featured a corgi girl named Billie who was available once a week to do this with the kids. Some kids who were shy, or reluctant readers, actually found themselves excited about reading after having this experience.
Billie was one of our corgi friends. Many times, we would take her on walks with our corgis, Oliver and Oscar, while her human was recovering from problems with her hips. So, when Billie passed away this summer, there were many mourners, besides her human and us. ...more
Would you believe that I hadn’t picked up a book to read or re-visit in several days? Instead, I spent my time walking, reflecting, enjoying my dogs aWould you believe that I hadn’t picked up a book to read or re-visit in several days? Instead, I spent my time walking, reflecting, enjoying my dogs and my sister’s visit. My sister will be here for a few weeks, but it has been really nice to spend this quality time with her. Since she lives in Idaho, this is a rare opportunity for us. Also, it has been wonderful appreciating the rain that finally came to our part of California these past few days.
And then, after those book-less days, I picked up this one.
How would I describe this story in one word?
Intense.
This is a complex and absorbing story of madness, love, and desperate acts with the Blue Ridge Mountains as a scenic backdrop. In Sullivan’s debut novel, she created a sense of Appalachian life, with its superstitions and beautifully described landscapes, along with some well-developed, life-like characters.
Especially with her lead protagonist, Annie, whose resilience shone through as she worked diligently to solve a supposedly unsolvable case.
Even if the book title doesn’t truly reflect the storyline, it still was edgy, dark, haunting, twisted, and a slow-burn with a skillful plot. And, in reference to the book title, if readers were looking for witches, they won’t find them here. Still, it is a character-driven mystery that will most likely appeal to those readers attracted to psychological thrillers....more
I have mixed feelings about Emily Henry books. My reviews of her previous books should give readers all the reasons why. So, when this book came out, I have mixed feelings about Emily Henry books. My reviews of her previous books should give readers all the reasons why. So, when this book came out, I wasn’t racing to my local library to be on the waitlist. (As of today, even with 22 copies in the library system, 83 people are on the wait list.)
And, I told myself, that with 416 pages, this seemed like another good reason to avoid it. (I’m not a fan of large books, for the most part. Although, I have read my fair share of them.)
But when it was recently donated to my Little Free Library Shed, how could I ignore it? I didn’t, of course!
“She flashes a smile. It’s both dazzling and sad. Sazzling.”
Alice Scott is an enthusiastic journalist looking for an opportunity to be seen on a larger stage – with a published book. So, when the elusive Margaret Ives is considering writing her memoir, Alice ‘auditions’ to write her biography.
But there are two slight roadblocks to that possibility becoming a reality for Alice.
The first one is Hayden. A Pulitzer Prize winning author for another biography he wrote, who also happens to want this job, too.
And, the second one is Margaret who isn’t sure which writer she wants to pen her story.
Readers soon learn that Margaret wants to keep both writers around for a month, at her expense, and see what they both come up with in that month.
What will Margaret share with Alice and Hayden separately – and how will it translate into who she selects to write the final manuscript? And, what happens when Alice and Hayden question what she is sharing with each of them? Is there a bit of a mystery to unravel here?
Of course, that is just part of the story. Readers must also consider the characters themselves.
What could possibly happen in that month between bubbly, hopeful, buoyant Alice; and, brooding, cynical, overly confident, but quietly introspective, Hayden? Especially, when readers see them as two amazingly good-looking, albeit complicated adults?
This is also a scenic tale. Readers will no doubt feel and experience this small island in Georgia, as the characters do.
So, whose ‘great big beautiful life’ is it anyway? Is it really all about Margaret? Or the writers, Alice and Hayden who have come to learn more about her? And, unexpectedly find something else along the way? Or, could it possibly be something more?
This book maneuver’s away from Henry’s typical rom-com plotline.
Yes, we have that sense of we’ve been-here-before. Yes, there is a feeling of enemies-to-lovers trope. Yes, it is cozy with a sweet, small-town setting, and sometimes thoughtful, laughable moments within the dialogue.
And, of course, it includes the romance, we come to expect from Henry’s writing. But Henry also gives us some heart-warming familial subplots that traverse past trauma, parental death, and uneasy mother-daughter relationships.
And, if the romantic part may have readers feeling a bit of the ‘steamy’ tension between the past and present, as the writers collect background on Margaret’s storied romance, and consider their own attraction, that was probably meant to be part of our reading experience, too.
I am glad that this book was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, so that I could take my time with it. In this way, I chose to experience the evolution of the characters, the multiple plot lines, and the unhurried storytelling at my own pace.
I recognize that not all reviewers are going to feel the same about this book. But for me, I loved that ‘Great Big Beautiful Life’ became, my first 5-star Emily Henry read. ...more
For the love of dogs. That is why we do what we do. And, read books like this!
We just got back from a quick two-day visit to Carmel and Monterey, CA. For the love of dogs. That is why we do what we do. And, read books like this!
We just got back from a quick two-day visit to Carmel and Monterey, CA. The intention of the trip was to take our 7-year-old corgi, Oliver to see an eye specialist vet, because our regular vet was concerned that there might be some possible eye blindness in his brown eye. And, the closest specialist to us was in Monterey, about 2 and l/2 hours away. So, we decided to make it an overnight excursion with Oliver and Oscar, by staying in Carmel before our appointment the next day.
I mention this, before this review because there is something about books about dogs, and our joy about loving dogs that make everything we do for them so worthwhile. Right?♥️...more
Another Good Morning America Book Club pick found its way to my Little Free Library Shed by way of donation. This one was just released last month (OcAnother Good Morning America Book Club pick found its way to my Little Free Library Shed by way of donation. This one was just released last month (October, 2025).
“What is it about love that makes us think we can tame it, when all the while it is taming us?”
There is no denying that Mitch Albom is a master storyteller.
In this novel, we find Alfie, our main protagonist, in the hotseat being grilled by a detective who is convinced he did not win two million dollars legitimately from the local casino in the Bahamas which Alfie then wired to an unknown benefactor.
As Alfie sits calmly on the other side of the table, he attempts to explain to Detective LaPorta that he has not stolen the money, and that if he read his manuscript, better known as ‘the composition book’ addressed to his Boss, it would explain everything to him. And, as the story unfolds, the more skeptical the detective becomes. And, the more curious we become as readers.
Of course, as readers, we are given the opportunity to suspend disbelief. And, as we do, we are led into a tale of magical realism, a bit of time travel, a love story, sprinkled with incredible second chances.
“A gift. …to do things twice in …life. …go back in time, and, redo events.”
And, it is the second chances that keep readers truly engaged in attempting to discover what the mystery of Alfie is all about, just as the detective is hoping to get him behind bars for the perceived “stealing” of the casino’s money.
But will the detective succeed? Or, will something convince him that Alfie is truly innocent?
And, who is the Boss, that Alfie is writing to in the composition book?
Readers will be pulled in a variety of directions as they attempt to unravel the mystery of Alfie, along with Detective LaPorta, as he searches for answers, too. What will we all discover by the end?
This story is...Compelling. Lovely. Thought-full. Spell-binding. Unputdownable. As well as Magical. Hearts will undoubtedly be tugged by this easy-to-read, quick, page-turning tale. Have your Kleenex handy....more
“One decision; it hits me how one decision has the power to change everything.”
How could I resist this advanced reading copy that was donated to my Li“One decision; it hits me how one decision has the power to change everything.”
How could I resist this advanced reading copy that was donated to my Little Free Library Shed? The book cover was enticing with its bright colors of green, purple and blue with a scene of a lone woman staring across at a bridge. And then, the title of the book left me curious. So, I began to read.
The sheep shepherd, George Glenn has been murdered with a spade. But fear not, the sheep are on the case. Seriously. If you eveMystery readers alert!
The sheep shepherd, George Glenn has been murdered with a spade. But fear not, the sheep are on the case. Seriously. If you ever doubted that animals would not be connected to their humans, this book will definitely show you how it is possible.
Who would ever suspect that it would take ‘a sheep detective story’ to entice any reader?! Or, that our main protagonists would be sheep investigating their shepherd’s murder. Or, that it would take 342 pages to tell the story. Oh my!
Now don’t get my cynicism wrong. After all, if it weren’t for Rita Mae Brown’s Mrs. Murphy mystery series featuring her talking corgi, Tucker, I would not have corgis! (Yes, years ago, I saw one of her books that was made into a made-for-television movie, that simply entranced me!) How could I not resist that her talking corgi, and cats, Mrs. Murphy and Pewter would be integral to helping their human postmistress, Harry to solve the cases? If interested, her first book, “Wish You Were Here” review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
So, why not sheep? In a lovely scenic place such as Ireland.
This is the author’s debut novel in 2005, translated from German by Anthea Bell in 2006. And, if it is any indication of her writing style, who knows what her future holds? After all, this is an international bestseller. And, a donation to my Little Free Library Shed. So, it seemed only appropriate that I should dig in. Besides, don’t we need a little escape from the real world now and then?
As a side note, Leonie Swann went on to write quite a few books, including several that featured a character named Agnes Sharp.
Back to this one.
Now, granted these are smart sheep. They were read to nightly by George, their shepherd. So, it seems only fair that we acknowledge their interest in solving his murder. And, because we are suspending disbelief, and acknowledging the sheep in this way, this book can become fun for readers to watch them do it. In a state of deep contemplation. Which makes this slow-burn story, slow but stirring and touching in a cute way....more
A funny thing happened on my way to my donation basket in my Little Free Library Shed. Two children’s books were donated that were “written” by the MeA funny thing happened on my way to my donation basket in my Little Free Library Shed. Two children’s books were donated that were “written” by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The second book, which I have also reviewed is called, Museum ABC. What makes this particularly interesting is that just a week or so earlier, the book, “All the Beauty in the World” by Patrick Bringley was also donated.
This book is a simple teaching tool for kids showing them the numbers 1-10 featuring actual works of art from the museum. The book is so beautifully visual that it should be an exciting way for kids of all ages to learn and gather an appreciation for art.
There is also an extensive index at the back of the book that identifies the art, that coincides with the numbers.
“Spice to ease a restless heart: Take cardamom, cinnamon; vanilla, star anise, *chilli. Burn a eucalyptus leaf to dispel worries and unquiet thoughts.“Spice to ease a restless heart: Take cardamom, cinnamon; vanilla, star anise, *chilli. Burn a eucalyptus leaf to dispel worries and unquiet thoughts. For true love: Light a red candle at midnight on Midsummer’s Eve. Add the heart of a pomegranate, a feather from the breast of a dove. Say his name three times, with love, and love will surely come to you.”
Restless Heart. True love. Sweet spells? Or, is that the chocolate?
This is the prequel to the author’s book, “Chocolat” first published on March 4, 1999.
For me, I remember the movie (released in the United States in December, 2000) more than the book. I appreciated how it captured viewer’s hearts with its magical presence. It boasted Juliette Binoche cleverly playing the leading role of Vianne. Binoche, since 1996, was already known for her academy-award winning role in “The English Patient.” And, with this movie she had an incredible supporting cast that included fellow actors: Johnny Depp, Lena Olin, Alfred Molina, Judi Dench, Leslie Caron and Carrie-Ann Moss.
But regardless of those memories, it was my Goodreads friend, Jayme’s review, that enticed me to read this one. Her captivating review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
There is something lyrical and melodic about the author’s words. (I have shared some quotable moments below.) The words have a way of capturing readers, as Vianne begins to share her world, as she sees it and experiences it. Readers can’t help but find themselves enchanted by the descriptive prose.
So, what was Vianne like before ‘chocolat?’ This prequel gives insights into Vianne as she begins with her move from New York, after her mother’s death, to Marseille, France, as a pregnant woman.
“Grief is love with nowhere to go.”
Soon, she comes upon Louis who extends her room and board if she will help cook at his bistro. He offers up his late wife Margot’s recipe book, which Vianne takes to heart. She also makes some friends with chocolatiers who guide her in the art of making chocolate dishes, which she takes on wholeheartedly.
There is a sense of magic in the air for Vianne which she senses with her cooking, and the words that seem to whisper to her, giving her a look into pasts, present and future. What gift is Vianne holding within herself? How will it guide her?
“And now, in the confessional, I understand the choice I must make. Security, or the call of the wind. The chocolaterie, or the highway. My little Anouk in a railway station, late at night, in some nameless town, or a kitchen with knives of my own, and polished copper pans on the wall? And each decision comes at a price; freedom, or discovery.”
Freedom or discovery?
This is a story of magical realism fraught with questions, searching, and hope. Beautifully written, this prequel shares Vianne’s journey to self-discovery, and chocolate. And, for anyone available to magic, the pages are now open.
*Chilli – actual country cultural spelling offered in book....more
“I hope you will tell her she was a perfect baby, born at dawn under a pink sunrise.”
I have been a fan of epistolary style storytelling for quite some“I hope you will tell her she was a perfect baby, born at dawn under a pink sunrise.”
I have been a fan of epistolary style storytelling for quite some time now. Most recently sharing my joy last month (in my 2025 on Goodreads review, August stand-out picks) when I read and reviewed, “Kate & Frida” by Kim Fay. If interested, my review of that book is below.
So, when I heard about this book, I immediately got on the waitlist on June 16, 2025 at my local library to read it. Once it came in on September 4, 2025, I began reading it along with another book I had already started. And, then I just kept reading it, as if it were the only book in the world to read.
On the book cover, author Ann Patchett declares…
“A cause for celebration.”
On page 6 of the hardcover version, the character, Sybil Van Antwerp, our main letter writer, sends Ann Patchett, a letter. A full circle moment?
This is Sybil’s story…her life, her thoughts, her sentiments, her relationships – through letters. (And, the responses she receives.) And, Sybil does not hold back. Through the correspondence she shares, we learn about her past, and the challenges she is facing in the present.
So, who is Sybil really and what makes her so easy-to-read?
“It is the correspondence that is her manner of living.”
A direct-not-afraid-to-say-what-she-thinks kind of character, Sybil displays herself openly for readers to witness and appreciate. There is also a gentleness to her we come to understand as layers of her life are peeled open and laid before readers. Who is she writing to – how is she feeling – what story is she telling – what experience are we as readers coming to learn about as Sybil writes her letters, and we eagerly read them.
There is a touching, heart-full, lyrical soul-full-ness within these pages, of a woman’s life filled with accomplishments, friendship, love, guilt, regrets, grief, insights, forgiveness and heart. There is also a slight mystery.
“I have missed you all this time,…but the fact is that I got every moment of you there was.”
The letters, which translate to the culmination of this book, are moving, elegant, sometimes laugh-out-loud funny, heart-warming, well-crafted, and poignant.
Readers will also appreciate the many other book titles mentioned, and familiar named ‘author’ letters that are included as part of the correspondence.
This is a delightfully charming story that expresses itself in a truly imaginative way. It has the ability to hold readers attention from the beginning to the end.
Walking into this story, it became clear from the onset, that this book title fit the character perfectly. This is my first Joy Fielding novel, and I Walking into this story, it became clear from the onset, that this book title fit the character perfectly. This is my first Joy Fielding novel, and I doubt it will be my last, now that I have had a chance to experience her well-crafted, well-paced and intricate writing style.
Jenny Cooper is a 92-year-old resident of Legacy Place, a memory care facility. Jenny has dementia and a secret. And, while on the way to visit her friend Carol who also lives at Legacy Place, 76-year-old, recently widowed Linda Davidson, learned from Jenny her secret. But is her secret believable?
When a suspicious death occurs at Legacy Place, could Jenny’s secret be true?
Surprisingly, Linda enjoys visiting Jenny, and begins to find comfort in this unlikely friendship, with her. Especially now that her daughter has come to live, with her, which also includes her not so very nice, manipulative, unlikable son-in-law, Mick.
How will Jenny’s secret guide Linda through the ongoing machinations of Mick?
This easy-to-read, thought-provoking, page-turning, somewhat predictable mystery, also provides a very delectable ending. Dare we have such thoughts?! ...more
There is something sad and haunting about this book. Not in the way that it makes anyone think that it is spooky season. But in the way that touches tThere is something sad and haunting about this book. Not in the way that it makes anyone think that it is spooky season. But in the way that touches the heart and emotions, knowing that people are driven to do things sometimes – possibly to survive, or because they may not know better.
What drives any of us? What memories create us? Who are we or what do we become because of what happened to us – or what we may choose to become because of what occurred in our past?
This is the story of lives touched by a haunted past.
We have the snow child. We have someone known as Mr. B. We have a tremendous supporting cast of characters. And, our main protagonist, Naomi on a mission as ‘the child finder.’ (Hence: the title of the book.)
And, yet, if this mission is accomplished, so much more will be discovered. And, whether it is a happy ending, or not, readers will feel many emotions, including the tragedies, heart-break, and haunting that touches all those affected when children are lost and hopefully found.
A powerful, heart-wrenching, deeply touching reading experience....more
Consider the title of this book. Do we ever really know how this, whatever this is, ends? I can only assume that this might be the direction our life Consider the title of this book. Do we ever really know how this, whatever this is, ends? I can only assume that this might be the direction our life chooses to take. Right? Maybe. Hmmm… ...more
At the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s bAt the same time, I was reading this book, I was also reading, “The Summer Guests” by Tess Gerritsen in which her Martini Club had picked Ackerman’s book as their group’s book discussion selection. I thought it was a fascinating coincidence. Especially, when they started to get into their own discussion about birds. As a side note, I finished, but decided not to review “The Summer Guests.” Sometimes books are just for reading.
Let me first start by sharing my admiration for this book cover. It is the only painted color illustration offered of a bird in the whole book. Which is a shame. But it is absolutely stunning. The spectacular blue and gray feathers of this California Scrub Jay comes through vibrantly. Look at the claws as it clutches onto the stem of the plant/tree. And, the serious look in the eye with the white streak above it, is just gorgeous. Unfortunately for me, I really had hoped there would be more color illustrations of birds throughout the book. Still, the black and white bird illustrations that were offered at the beginning of each chapter are a nice treat. But this book cover illustration by Eunike Nugroho is something to be truly acknowledged, and that is why I am mentioning it.
Now let’s talk about the title of the book. I love the way the author starts this book. She is very clear that birds have gotten the short end of the stick, so to speak, when it comes to perception about their intelligence.
To be honest, any of us who are animal lovers, probably believe our pets are intelligent and have an innate ability to communicate with us. I already get this from my corgi dog Oliver with the way he can either shame face me into submission, or soften me because he is telling me everything, I need to know about what he needs from me in any given moment. So, those of us who have pets, obviously already believe in their abilities to creatively interface with us.
So, it is not surprising to any of us who have an affinity for animals, that we might wonder about ‘birds’ intellectual abilities to communicate, and especially their ability to communicate with humans. The more that science can bridge this gap, the more aware we can be in understanding them, their needs, and meeting and appreciating those needs. Or, at least appreciating what they bring to humans and nature, overall.
This is the beauty of this book. Helping readers reimagine our understanding of “bird brains.” To see and appreciate them differently. And, readers can certainly appreciate the author’s sense of wonder about birds.
Last minutes notes for consideration…
Throughout the book, Ackerman provides many explanations in layman’s terms of complex studies done on birds. Those birds with language skills are captivating. The studies are easily translatable, making them understandable for readers. Also, this book can be read at a slow pace, if desired. I chose to read this book in-between my novels, thus the slow pace worked well for me. I also appreciated that the book could be utilized as a teaching tool…especially for those who enjoy birdwatching, or are fascinated with birds in general....more
E. Jean Carroll. She told the truth. Twice. She was believed. Twice. She won a lot of money. Twice. And the justice awarded to her continues to rise iE. Jean Carroll. She told the truth. Twice. She was believed. Twice. She won a lot of money. Twice. And the justice awarded to her continues to rise in value. ($100 million and counting.)
And, her intentions for that money are perfect! All the things he hates.
And, she has the best sense of humor. Throughout this memoir, trial tell-all.
I listened to the book along with reading the hardcover copy. As much as I hated what this man, the future and current President of the United States put her through, I absolutely loved her for her courageousness and brave sense of self. Even if she didn’t always see herself that way.
This is mostly her story about the sexual assault and defamation trials. It also is her story of what may not have been shared at trial. And, for those of us who detest men who think they can sexually assault women and get away with it, the sad part is that even though he was held accountable through this assault against her – there are still many in this country that voted for this rapist to be President. There is something very sad about their choosing to do so.
Still, E. Jean Carroll is to be celebrated for her pluckiness and voice. And, because of her case, New York re-visited and expanded the “rape is rape” bill.
For those interested in reading her side of the story, this is a compelling, enjoyable, and, thoughtful look at a woman not afraid of bullies, or taking a stark look at herself. A new kind of she-ro.
Each has a backstory. It begins and ends at the train depot. Heart-felt. Heart-wrenching. Interwoven. Thoughtful.Lincoln. Vera. Violet. Evelyn. Anna.
Each has a backstory. It begins and ends at the train depot. Heart-felt. Heart-wrenching. Interwoven. Thoughtful. Unique.
Modern day 1970. As readers are transported back and forth in time, we are reminded that…
“If the train arrives at 5:39 then it is too late.”
Most importantly, as pages turn, we can’t help but want to dole out hugs and love to characters that may feel broken, deserve attention and compassion in a world that doesn’t always understand those that are different. But there is something about them that makes us want to know them and care. And, hope for a better world.
The author shares a masterfully told character-driven story, that was thought-provoking and heart-warming. The author’s historical investigative background brings a thoughtful warmth and dimension that brings the characters to life while adding heart and soul to the story. Readers can’t help but root for the characters. May we be so fortunate to have more neurodivergent people that guide us to see the world from their point of view.
One last thing…the book cover. It has special meaning. As you read, you will understand. Pay attention.
Publication Date: August 26, 2025
I want to thank the author and Vine Leaves Press for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review....more
Sometimes we can find friendship and books in the most unexpected places. And, when we do, that we not make assumptions about others.
This is truly a Sometimes we can find friendship and books in the most unexpected places. And, when we do, that we not make assumptions about others.
This is truly a book that shows kids not to be so quick to judge others just because of how they may look or act based on what they were “born” to be.
And, even if that wasn’t the intended “learning” lesson, it certainly can be one from this sweetly illustrated book about a flying dragon named Franklin that loved to read.
And, a young girl, named Luna who befriended Franklin and found a way to make books and an unconventional bookshop available to the town.
"My four golden principles are more important now than ever: take it one step at a time; approach the matter dispassionately; avoid a rush to judgment"My four golden principles are more important now than ever: take it one step at a time; approach the matter dispassionately; avoid a rush to judgment; confide in nobody until there is hard evidence.”
Harris is undoubtedly a phenomenally talented author when it comes to writing historical fiction. He obviously is well-researched and a master storyteller.
Yet, I wouldn’t have considered reading this one, hadn’t it been for the comments left under my review of his most recent book, “Precipice” by Goodreads friend, Terence M. I recommend you read his review of this book, as well: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
It starts with an eerie setting that shows a passionate view of people’s hatefulness towards Jews. During those times, they didn’t see being Jewish as a religion, they saw it as a race to mock. And, in this particular case, Alfred Dreyfus, a Jew, was labeled a traitor towards his country, even when lacking evidence. 20,000 people came to view the moment of his humiliation even as he cried out his innocence.
“…that the human impulse to watch another’s humiliation will always prove sufficient insulation against even the bitterest cold.”
This is the fictionalized account of the true story of ‘The Dreyfus Affair’ which would certainly affect French Society. It started on October 15, 1894 with the arrest for high treason of Captain Alfred Dreyfus.
This is a complicated story. And, his narrator, Lt. Col. Georges Picquart, who believes at first in his guilt, soon becomes the investigator to unravel the truth, before becoming his eventual savior.
Harris takes readers through the various aspects of the affair: the court-martial trial, the investigation, the perjured testimony, the forged documents, the secret files, the mobs of people. While reading, it feels as if we are present amongst history.
When Georges is reading the love letters between Alfred and his wife Lucie, that he is written while he is imprisoned on Devil’s Island, we can’t help but be touched by their passion towards each other.
So, who is the real traitor? What will tip Georges off to save Dreyfus? Will he be saved in time? And, will Georges be rewarded for his investigative work?
This is truly a gripping and thrilling story. And, as a true story, for those who didn’t know the history, we can’t wait to find out what happens in the end. For those who did know the history, I have to believe you can’t wait to find out what happens in the end, too. Because, Harris has a way of keeping readers riveted. Thank you, Terrence....more
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