Another delight from Carol Cassella
339974
Once again, Carol Cassella has delivered a novel that is a delight to read. Her portrayal of Claire is both intimate and empathic. It is difficult to put this book down, once you have read the first page and learn of Claire's life that has been turned upside down. Cassella writes with such compassion and detail, readers will easily relate to their predicament. Traditional role reversals, abruptly lost wealth and financial security, and their subsequent stress that is played out in the family dynamics are portrayed exquisitely. Claire finds herself in the almost impossible position of returning to the practice of medicine where she no longer feels comfortable, and most of her patients are Spanish speaking. In addition, she juggles the unrealistic but typical demands of a teenage daughter who has been uprooted to a new school in a different town.
Woven in the story line is the intricate strategy of the process of bringing a potential cancer fighting agent to market. Claire's husband, Addison, is a gifted researcher who has unsuccessfully gambled their life savings on his designer drug. In the process, Cassella walks us through the maze of institutional review boards, drug trials, and entrepreneurial financiers that influence the successful marketing of a drug, as only a physician writer could do. Added in is the humanistic touch of a Nicaraguan refugee who befreinds Claire, her daughter, and ultimately brings a crushing twist to Claire's hopes for the return of her previous former life.
Most poignant of all is Casella's beautiful interplay between Claire and Addison. Despite her family's upheaval, Claire finds the resources to relate to her daughter and husband in a manner that ultimately brings growth and peace for all. Casella creates intimate character portrayals that are all too common in today's economy, but delivers the blueprints to deal with life's upheavals with grace and love, rather than blame and strife.
631622
It's nice to visit Whispering Falls again. June Heal is busy trying to save her town and it's spiritual people.  Mr. Prince Charming is at her side to protect her.  Of course Madame Torres is there as snarky as ever. How does the wedding of Petunia and her boyfriend, Gerald, figure into this mystery? Will June and Oscar rekindle their romance?  Tonya weaves a tale of mystery and romance that kept me reading this well plotted story. The characters are as charming and quirky as ever. I can't wait for more adventures with June. I know that Ezmeralda will not give up.
2088448
Il Bel Centro is at once full of mystery and simplicity.  I so enjoyed reading Michelle Damiani's tumbling expedition into the heart of Italy which brought her and her family into the heart of their own evolving lives.  For me, the arrangement of days taken from her blog postings lent authenticity to the tapestry of one story after another strung together in moments of friendship, struggle, discovery, food, and family.  I very much enjoyed that I could read this at my own pace - sometimes a little bit and sometimes a lot.  I  felt the sense of being there, experiencing the author's surprise, or worry, or sensing the deliciousness of some new way to prepare Italian cuisine.  And as each day unfolds for each family member (including the cats!) into the rhythm and routine of Spello, the reader is drawn into the unfolding sense of how going somewhere else can bring you closer to home. I was pleased to receive an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review and hope that others find it as enjoyable as I did.
2085947
I have loved  all the books that I have  read by Carol Moncado. I would recommend reading the other books first. It will help to set the back drop for this book so it might help it flow better for some people.  I love how Malachi was always reminding Jessabelle. How beautiful she was to him and God.  No things did not start out the best for them but they learned to love and grow together and to always take thing to God in prayer. I love the Christian values that flow through out every book.
4392705
Cora's Casseroles is original, poignant and sweet.  It is an all-too-human story of how a close husband and wife deal with the news that his cancer is about to get the best of him.  The book describes the rather unorthodox way Cora and her husband choose to approach the end of a life and a long, loving partnership, and it does so with sensitivity, wisdom and even humor.  I found the book surprisingly delightful and satisfying.  My only regret is that the pages ran out too quickly.
2083608
Im thankful for a review copy of a book by one of my favorite authors. I instantly cared for and enjoyed this cast of colorful characters. I felt a part of their family.

Emma Burcelli gets a call to inform her of her Poppis passing. Emma learns the funeral will be soon. She feels lead to leave her dead-end marketing-job in Seattle to go live with her grandmother, Nona.

Poppis death hits the entire Bucelli family hard. He was such an encourager, family anchor - part of everyones life and brought so much love to them all. Emma declares, Romance is officially deadof course, she knew that Poppi would probably argue this with her. He would launch into a passionate lecture about how love was alive and well for those who were willing to take noticejust open your eyes; he would often say to people, Love is all around you. But Emma had never been able to see it. She was convinced, True love was only to be found in old movies and classic books.

This author has a great mix of believable characters, all facing Poppis death in different ways. Some comical and in denial and some sad. They also face Valentine s Day in very different ways too. Emma knows, Valentines day is a crazy holiday for many who are not in a relationship, lost someone dear, and/or are not in that series relationship, things get complicated.

Emma has mixed emotions about this day. She tells someone, Valentines Day is a cruel joke! Bah-Humbug! She was a Valentine s Day Scrooge and wasn't afraid to say it. She marveled and reflected at how much Poppi loved this holiday. So did her grandmother, Nona. It was at Nonas request for Emma to go to the book store they owned and decorate it for Valentines Day on February first. Shed to that for both of her grandparents no matter how she felt about that day. Her grandparents were love to her. Shed do it for them.

I enjoyed this novella sized book for several reasons. One, it was about an Italian family. I was raised in one and know firsthand that learning to make homemade spaghetti sauce is very important. I smiled big when they talked about this aspect of Italian family life. They said that it was important to learn how to make spaghetti and meatballs the way their family made it. It spoke love to the receiver. I remember my training and how this is so true. Second part of this story takes place in a book store. I loved that since Ive worked in one for 10 years. And last but not least this author talks about a mens book club. Poppi started and lead a mens book club inside the book store. I loved reading about this aspect of the book since Ive done the very same thing but with a group of women. Poppi had picked out the Phantom of the Opera for the men to read. He wanted to talk about different aspect of what love is. It was funny to read about the mens book club as they discussed the book and drank wine at their meetings. It was a hoot!

My only complaint about this book is that it was too short. It left me wanting more. I wanted to hang out with this Italian family and learn more about them. I highly recommend this book for a mini get away from the worlds cares. This story will tug at your heart, make you smile and just make you feel good all over. Thanks Melody! I enjoyed meeting you this year at the ICRS Conference!

Disclosure of Material Connection: #AD Sponsor
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
704709
I've been a fan of Adam Carolla since he was on Loveline way back when on the radio.  This book does NOT disappoint.  It'll be one of the most enjoyable reads you've had in a long time.
4000317
Brought to you by OBS reviewer Kayt

The wonderful town of Cranberry Cove is getting ready for Winter Walk. Monica Albertson and her half-brother Jeff are trying to promote their business Sassamamash Farm and the goodies she makes with the harvested cranberries. The town is abuzz with activity and special events. Monicas mother has even shown up. Which could spell trouble since her step mother also lives in town. Her mother is coming to surprise her new boyfriend who just happens to be mayor and also dating her step mother. When the opening ceremony of the Winter Walk takes place none other than same said mayor makes a spectacular entrance. Well to everyone else that is since he is dead. Author Peg Cochran has a truly entertaining writing style that is filled with humor, mystery, fun, and intrigue. You cannot ask for a lot more in a super cozy!!

Monica and her friends and family are fabulous characters. Monica is such an enjoyable protagonist, intelligent, strong and real. I love her half-brother Jeff and his work ethic and strength, when he could be a weak person. Her step-mother and mothers interaction are hilarious. The Winter Walk should be a time of celebration and hopefully business for the townsfolk in a time of off season struggles. Tempest Storm, a fellow business owner, wants to perform a ritual with little support from the town and actual opposition from Mayor Preston Crowley. When he winds up dead on the horse drawn sleigh with Tempests ceremonial dagger sticking out of his neck, she of course becomes the prime suspect. Monica has to find answers or the whole town may suffer.

Not only is Tempest a suspect, but when knowledge that both Monicas mother and step-mother were both dating the mayor (unbeknownst to either of them), they also become suspects. Monica has to get to the bottom of the mayors murder. (I have to say it seems like the job of mayor in Cranberry cove is a deadly job). Monica is also busy getting baked goods and tempting treats together for their shop and her booth at the Winter Walk. Dealing with her mother, step-mother and trying to spend time with her man of interest Greg take up a ton of her time as well.

I love the characters in this series. Berry the Hatchet is the second installment in the fun Cranberry Cove Mystery series. The characters are truly well developed and always entertaining. I enjoy author Peg Cochrans writing style and storyline. The setting is a pleasure to visit. I so respect the inclusion of Monicas half-brother Jeff. A veteran that is overcoming a disabling injury and some PTSD and is working hard to make a life for himself running the cranberry farm. It really makes this series even more special. I think even if you had not read the first in this great series you would be able to follow and enjoy this book. I recommend Berry the Hatchet to any reader that is looking for a great new cozy series that has a cast of characters that are not only enjoyable and entertaining, but also full of spunk, strength and fun.

*OBS would like to thank the publisher for supplying a free copy of this title in exchange for an honest review*
2709199
I have been a long time fan of this author. Her past offering over the last few years left me wondering if the author that penned "Violets in the Snow" and "Emerald Enchantment" two of my favorite books had indeed written the stories?  I'm so glad that Ms. Grasso has returned with not only a new story but one that made me laugh out loud and weep softly!
Victoria has been secretly betrothed for a year.  She meets her intended only a few short weeks before the "I do's".  Not realizing that Aleander Emerson will soon be her husband she takes the advice of her sisters to practice flirting with him.  Victoria meets Alexander and their attraction is immediate!  For both.  Now if they could only put their individual problems on the back burner to realzie what is right in front of their faces.
Alexander agrees to the engagement to the last daughter of the man his father ruined (did you follow that?) it's the least he could do.  What he doesn't expect is the powerful way he feels after sharing just one kiss.  He decides that marriage to Victoria many not be easy, but it sure won't be a hardship.  Now if he can only stop the plots that have been set in place to destroy their fragile bond before it's to late.
This was a wonderful read with a great cast of characters.  Victoria is not a milk and water miss and her issue with dyslexia makes a wonderful secondary storyline.  Alexander is a great hero and just the right match for Victoria.  I highly recommend this latest offering by Ms. Grasso.  If you've never read her before you're in for a treat.  If you have read her past  few titles but have found them wanting you will be very happy to see that she is back writing as she did in the past!
841932
I absolutely loved this novel by Carol Drinkwater, author of the non-fiction series&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/The-Olive-Farm-A-Memoir-of-Life-Love-and-Olive-Oil-in-the-South-of-France/dp/0142001309/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">The Olive Farm: A Memoir of Life, Love, and Olive Oil in the South of France</a>. Her first (that I know of) hand at writing fiction in&nbsp;<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/The-Girl-in-Room-Fourteen-Kindle-Single/dp/B00F8GP5O2/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">The Girl in Room Fourteen (Kindle Single)</a>&nbsp;is mesmerizing from page one. We meet Cecile, the most accomplished, successful lemon grower in the area. While we know this much about her, just as with anyone we think we know, we find there is so much more to her. She has an entire love story that has touched her entire life, in every way.

While I don't want to give anything away, I will tell you, this is a perfect book for readers who love a well-written story. You are taken to a time, a place, so well-told that you feel you are a part of everything. You will smell the incredible lemons, right down to her lemon cheesecake. You will feel her love story, her torment, everything.

I give this my highest praise. It would make a PERFECT gift for just about any adult reader. It's lovely and fine. It's also a story that you and your friends can discuss after reading, sharing it as a fine wine.

Highest praise and I can't  wait for the next novel by Carol.
3047731
Mistaken Kiss is certainly not a mistaken read. As always, I enjoyed Ms. Baldwins wonderful wit, whimsy and sense of wonder. She lures readers into her world of endearing and fascinating characters with the romance of Wilhemina and Alexander. But Ms. Baldwin doesnt stop there. Lady Alameda, renowned as the familys Notorious Aunt, cares not a whit if she turns her Regency world on its head so long as she gets exactly what she wants for her darling niece.
4605446
Susan Santangelo has struck just the perfect mix of fun and clever twists with her mystery.  Her characters come to life and you want to sit and have coffee with them.  It's hard to put the book down. You'll be glad you read this delightful mystery!  Marie Sherman<a data-hook="product-link-linked" class="a-link-normal" href="/Say-I-Do-Wedding-Tales-Of-A-Cape-Cod-Justice-of-The-Peace/dp/B005NIOJSS/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_rvw_txt?ie=UTF8">Say, "I Do! Wedding Tales Of A Cape Cod Justice of The Peace</a>
3237890
Susan Wiggs and the residents of the fictional town of Avalon, NY never disappoint me. Starlight on Willow Lake brings us to an idyllic summer of lakeside fun with barbecues, jet skis and canoes as Faith and her daughters settle into the beautiful Bellamy mansion with Alice Bellamy, recently injured in an avalanche and now confined to a wheelchair as a quadriplegic. A caregiver all her life, first to her mother then husband and now professionally, Faith doesn't blink an eye at Alice's sharp remarks and defeatist attitude. Faith's sweet younger daughter Ruby is a great relationship builder, with her inquisitiveness and peppy attitude. When Alice's son Mason moves into the guest apartment to keep a closer eye on his mother it seems like a family has been created. Both Faith and Mason have unspoken, confused feelings toward each other, Faith uncomfortable with the gap between them socio-economically, Mason ashamed because he is in a relationship with another woman and both feeling awkward with their employer-employee relationship.

I found the information about quadriplegics interesting and enjoyed watching Alice emerge from her grief and depression. I also loved the relationship Faith had with her teenage daughter Ava. Typical in the stomping and resentment, Ava is still able to stop and hug her mother when no one is around, and in her mind she appreciates all Faith tries to do for them, although she is resentful of their lack of resources as a family.
The descriptions of the town of Avalon and Willow Lake make me want to jump in the car, drive to upstate New York and find a small town with a lake where I can buy a cabin, visit the local pub at night and stop in the bakery every morning. Why I can't do that in my own small town that has all these things I don't know, it just seems so much better on the printed page.

Starlight on Willow Lake is the eleventh book in the Lakeshore Chronicles but is easily read out of order as all the books in the series can be. Some characters from earlier books pop in to befriend Faith or visit Alice, and it's nice to see what's been going on in their lives as well. Readers who are new to Susan Wiggs will find a new go-to author and long time fans will enjoy another visit to Avalon. Starlight on Willow Lake is a wonderful light read, perfect to fit in between the heavier thrillers and dramatic family sagas I've been reading lately.
I received this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
3338417
I've read all of the Diane Mott Davidson books and so enjoy every one of them. I've even seen her in person at a luncheon
when she spoke during a book tour.

Had to buy The Whole Enchillada when I saw it was out, and so glad I did. It's like meeting up with friends in Colorado for a taste of their life and a little mystery. what I like best about Diana Mott Davidson's books are watching the growth and changes of the characters and getting to know them, the romance and relationship between Goldie and her husband Tom, the wonderful young men in her story, the "backstage"look at catering and  great recipes, her feisty friend Marla, and the respect she has for family and faith. They are part of life, but not too heavy handed.

As usual, a satisfying read that makes me hungry for more! You go, Goldie!
2730392
Monica Albertson is content in Cranberry Cove, Michigan helping her half-brother Jeff run Sassanmanash Farm, their family cranberry farm, by supplying the farm store with fresh-baked cranberry bread, cranberry scones, and cranberry salsa and helping Jeff out as needed.  The merchants in Cranberry Cove are looking forward to the Winter Walk, an event planned by Mayor Preston Crowley, to bring much-needed business to the town during the slow winter months.  The event is slated to begin with Miss Winter Walk, Preston's niece, riding through town on a horse-driven sleigh.

The town is startled when the horse arrives pulling the sleigh in a fit - a sleigh empty except for Preston Crowley's dead body.  Preston has been stabbed through the neck with a knife.

It turns out Preston Crowley was dating both Monica's mother, Nancy Albertson, and Monica's stepmother, Gina Albertson, each unbeknownst to the other.  The detective in charge of the case is suspicious of both of them though Monica feels sure neither had anything to do with the murder.  As Monica investigates Crowley's death, she learns he was stabbed with an athame, a ceremonial dagger used in Wiccan rituals, that likely came from Twilight, the new-age shop owned by outsider Tempest Storm.  Tempest had planned a Wiccan ceremony the day the Winter Walk began, and Crowley had been circulating a petition to stop Tempest's ritual.  Monica also finds the owner of the new restaurant in town, The Pepper Pot, was delayed in opening the restaurant because Preston Crowley managed to delay a health inspection, causing the owner of The Pepper Pot, Roger Tripp, to become angry.

As Monica gathers clues, distinctive buttons begin showing up as well as a coat buried in a pile of sand.  A second murder occurs, and Monica finds a voodoo doll in her farm market apron.  Someone is trying to scare her off the case.  Can Monica find the murderer before she or anyone else is harmed?

I really enjoyed reading this book.  The main characters are likeable and believable, and I loved the small town atmosphere as well as the tasty mentions of cranberry-inspired food throughout the book.  The small town shops are quaint, and so is Nancy's kitten, Mittens, sounds adorable.  I would definitely recommend this book to any foodie or cozy mystery fan.
1494042
Cassatt was no Sargent or Hassam, but her style reflects sensitivity and charm. This is a great book to own about Cassatt, full of good plates and at a bargain price. You can't go wrong with this one!
1186094
I love to read and hear great storytelling. Carol Burnett has served her readers up some delicious stories from her past life in THIS TIME TOGETHER.

I listened to all five CDs and loved every minute of the mixture of life experiences--personal and professional. I recommend it.