Welcome to Thursday, and what are you reading! My favorite day of the week. Maybe not my favorite week because I’m cramming right now, trying to read to moderate a panel next week. That’s okay. I still want to catch up with all of you. How are you doing? And, my favorite question, what are you reading?
I’m reading William Kent Krueger’s late August release, Lightning Strike. He’s one of the authors on next week’s panel. This is a prequel to the Cork O’Connor series. It’s a story of fathers and sons, and events that shape lives forever. Cork is a twelve-year-old in this book. Since I haven’t read the series yet, this is a good way for me to start. (I have read his masterpiece, Ordinary Grace, as well as This Tender Land.)
So, what about you? What are you reading this week?
Ive just accomplished my goal of reading all of Kent Krueger’s books on audio! I love his Cork O’Connor series a great deal. So now I will start Lightning Strike as well. The character of Cork has struggled through the series to find his place in the world, to find where he fits in the best. I think he’s finally comfortable in his own skin. So it will be interesting to explore further the huge role his father played in his life, and the impact of his death. Be sure to pat particulate attention to chapter 16 when young Cork buys a book for his mother. You may be familiar with the bookseller and the bookstore!
I can’t wait now to get to Chapter 16, Sandie! Quite an accomplishment getting through the entire series!
Oh, I cannot wait to read Lightning Strike. William Kent Krueger is an amazing writer, and one of the nicest people in the mystery community. I think Ordinary Grace is one of the finest books ever written, and I am a huge fan of the Cork O’Connor series.
Today was a visit to the dentist day. Ugh. Considering it’s been over a year since my last visit, things went much better than I had anticipated. Although here is an implant in my very best future. Ugh.
I’ve read a mixed bag of books this week.
Magical Midlife Meeting by K. F. Breene – This was another fun addition to a wild and irreverent paranormal series. These characters crack me up.
Reunion Beach, Stories Inspired by Dorothea Benton Frank edited by Carrie Feron – I was a fan of Ms. Frank’s, her early work more than her later work, and this is a lovely tribute to her. Some of the stories were a little too mushy for my taste but the section written by Adriana Trigiana was priceless.
An Ambush of Widows by Jeff Abbott (ARC) – Jeff Abbott always gives us good solid stories.
The House Uptown by Melissa Ginsburg – A big disappointment.
Dream Girl by Laura Lippman (ARC) – Something different for Laura Lippman and I liked it lots. She slides some fun popular TV, movie, and literature culture references into the story that I enjoyed.
The Social Graces by Renee Rosen – And another disappointment.
Kaye, I’m glad you enjoyed Magical Midlife Meeting. My copy is supposed to arrive today. Unfortunately I have to finish a couple of library books first.
Kaye, I totally agree with you. Ordinary Grace is a masterpiece, one of the finest books ever written. I may have to quote you next Thursday and embarrass William Kent Krueger. And, you’re right. With Bill Crider gone, William Kent Krueger might just rank as the nicest person in the mystery community. There’s fame as an author, and then there’s the reputation as a nice person. That’s special.
I’ve been sidetracked. I really need to read Adriana Trigiani’s piece. Donna watched an interview with Lisa Scottoline and Paula McLain, hosted by Adriana Trigiani. I’m surprised Paula McLain ever got a word in.
Sorry about the two disappointments. Thanks to you, I bought the first book in K.F. Breene’s series. Someday, I’ll get to it!
Sending lots of hugs, my friend. After a visit to the dentist, we all need them!
Lesa, do read that section! She has managed to capture Pat Conroy’s “voice” SO perfectly!
You got it, Kaye!
Hi Lesa and everyone,
I’d never even heard of William Kent Krueger, but I have just looked him up and I was won over by his photo – he looks lovely! I will see if I can find any of his books.
We had a weekend of glorious sunny weather, so our trip over the hills to see our son and daughter-in-law was just perfect – the drive there is so pretty, it is really part of the enjoyment of the day, and once we had arrived we had a lovely visit. We met the new spaniel puppy, had lunch in the garden, and went for a walk around a loch near Aviemore (carefully avoiding all the more well known ones, as they would most likely have been overrun.)
The weather has now reverted to damp drizzle – and just now the skies darkened and down hammered a violent hailstorm – but I don’t mind, we were so lucky to get the good weather when we most wanted it.
In books, I finished Saturday Lunch with the Brownings; the best stories in it were about small moments in family life. The nightmare of arriving at a remote holiday home in France, after a baking hot journey alone with a young child, to find the doors bolted and only a skylight open – a skylight big enough only for the small child to fit through; the bickering of a long-married couple on their so-called ‘second honeymoon’ in Rome; the woman overhearing the story of the girl in the next bed in the maternity home, and gradually realising that things are not quite what they seem…My favourite story was about a rather staid young married woman and her husband, who meet a celebrity couple at a party. In a bid to make his own life more exciting, the husband invites the couple to dinner. The young wife is horrified – but when the couple turn up, it soon becomes clear that their lives are not quite as golden as their public image suggests.
I also finished Snapped in Cornwall by Janie Bolitho – even I worked out who the killer was way before the end, and I am usually absolutely hopeless at this, but despite that I still enjoyed this story. As I think I said last week, the author seemed to have spent longer on character development in this, the first Rose Trevalyn mystery, and there was also a better sense of place than in some of the later books in the series.
And Lesa, although I was right about our libraries not having any Dorothea Benton Frank books, I found Sullivan’s Island on ebay, so I have a copy coming my way!
On BBC Sounds I listened to a mystery from 1959 (dramatised in 1975) The Toff and the Runaway Bride. It was based on a book by John Creasey, and the role of The Toff was taken by Terence Alexander who, in his time, was well known for playing the suave, affluent, well-tanned upper class gent (if anyone has seen it, he was Charlie Hungerford in Bergerac, a very long running crime series set in Jersey.)
I had never read anything by John Creasey; this story reminded me of a slightly more modern Dorothy Sayers’ novel. The Toff, aka the Hon Richard Rollison, has – needless to say – a wonderful butler and general sidekick called Jolly (Robert Dorning), and together they set out to unravel the story behind the apparent bigamy of Rollison’s friend Barbara’s new husband. It was all a bit silly (Rollinson – of course – has such good relations with Scotland Yard that he is brought in to help with the case, and eventually given 12 hours to sort it ‘discreetly’ before the police move in….) but good fun, and although Rollison is obviously wealthy, he doesn’t have any of the more annoying traits of Peter Wimsey – he’s not patronising and he rarely recites poetry. The plot may not have been intricate, but it rattled along and was never boring.
Apparently Creasey wrote over 500 books under a whole list of different pen names – there are 59 novels in The Toff series alone.
And I’m also listening to A Far Cry from Kensington by Muriel Spark. I read this one many years ago, but I’m not sure I understood it, or even if I understand it now – I always have this feeling with Muriel Spark. I think this one does work well as an audiobook though.
All of our ‘non-essential’ retail opened up on Monday. I’ve left it a few days but this morning I am having a little expedition to some of my favourite charity bookshops – I was chatting to a man who volunteers in one of them, and he said they have vast amounts of stock, so it’s quite exciting! (He was retired, had volunteered for many years, and said he could not wait to get back to work. Charity shops have such an important function here, beyond fundraising – as our community centres and other support services are cut and cut, they’ve become valuable social centres, both for the customers and the volunteer staff. Lots of people just pop in for a chat. I love listening to them.)
I hope everyone has a good week. It was my youngest daughter’s birthday yesterday, so on Saturday we are off down to Dundee to see her (outside!) – so another reason for my shopping trip this morning is to find her a present.
Rosemary, If you can find a copy of William Kent Krueger’s Ordinary Grace, that’s the place to start. If you can’t, let me know. I’ll have to get one to you.
I’m so glad you had beautiful weather for your visit to your son and daughter-in-law. It’s just been too long since family felt as if they can get together. And, the weather cooperated! So, I’m sure the rain and grey doesn’t feel quite as bad since you had a family visit.
John Creasey. For some reason, the small public library I used as a child had tons of his books. My sister read all kinds of books about the Toff and the Baron. I should have known even then that police procedurals were favorites. I liked the Inspector West of Scotland Yard series. I read a slew of the books about George Gideon, Commander of Scotland Yard’s CID. He wrote those as J.J. Marric. Funny that the library had so many of his books, under so many of his pseudonyms. I checked out C.S. Lewis’ The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe, and never even realized until I was a junior in high school that it was part of the series. The library only had the one book. But, John Creasey? Tons of his books.
I like your comment about Muriel Spark, that you often feel as if you don’t understand her.
It’s always a joy to read about your visits to charity shops and bookshops. Thank you, Rosemary, for sharing slices of your life with us.
Regarding reading the Cork O’Connor series; I would recommend starting either with this newest, or with the first in the series. picking up somewhere in between could be confusing and you would miss the artistry of the author’s character development.
I’m going to read this one, Kaye, and, then, eventually, start at the beginning. Sandie Herron would agree with you.
As do I. See my comment far below.
Rosemary, John Creasey wrote a ton of books, under a number of aliases. If you like The Toff, you might like The Baron series, as well.
Good morning. I got my second shot of Moderns yesterday and so far no side effects. I had to take my mom to several appointments this week so I had lots of time to read while I was sitting in waiting rooms. I read
DEATH AT THE SALON by Louise R Innes. I like the small English town setting.
THE CURSE OF THE CHERRY PIE by Amy Patricia Meade. The last two bakers who entered a cherry pie in the bake-off turned up dead.
SHRIMPLY DEAD by Maggie Toussaint. Can a caterer catch a murderer? I like the characters in this one – especially the drag queens.
IMMORTAL ANGEL by Lynsay Sands. A vampire romance which my mom’s been bugging me to read because she really liked it. I found it was predictable and the characters were two dimensional.
I’m currently reading CHECKING OUT CRIME by Laurie Cass. It’s the latest in her bookmobile mystery series and it’s a much slower read than the earlier books in the series.
Sandy, I hope you make it another couple days with no aftereffects to the vaccine. Good luck! You didn’t really comment about The Curse of the Cherry Pie. I liked that one more than other ones in the series. I just can’t get into Laurie Cass’ bookmobile mysteries, though.
Lesa, I read Curse of the Cherry pie in fits and starts at my mom’s doctor appointments so it was hard to really get into it. I haven’t read the others in that series
Gotcha.
The Consequences of Fear. Usually not into foreign settings unless it is WWII genre,but like Winspear’s books
Carol Jeanne, I’m glad you like Jacqueline Winspear’s books. I haven’t read the recent ones, but I think Linda is up-to-date with them.
I agree on ORDINARY GRACE – a great book – and Kent Krueger, a lovely guy. I also liked that Muriel Spark book, Rosemary. My favorite Creasey story: years ago, our friend in the West Midlands used to take us around in the summer to different areas of Britain – as far north as St. Andrews and Perth, south to Southampton and Portsmouth – buying books. He took me to a huge warehouse size place in Southampton that had supposedly gotten all the books from John Creasey’s own collection of his books after his death. There were hundreds of different books under all kinds of names, old hardbacks and paperbacks and magazines, even some of his westerns – though I don’t know if they had the infamous one where Creasey, who had never been to the U.S. at the time and knew little about the Old West, had a cowboy look up and see a coyote flying by! I bought some stuff (for resale) but was amazed seeing so many different things in one place,
By I digress, as usual. Nicer weather is here – it was 85 in Midtown yesterday, though cooler where we are by the water. I am reading. As mentioned, I read THE DARK VINEYARD, the second Bruno, Chief of Police book by Martin Walker. Maybe it’s just getting to know the characters more, but I definitely enjoyed it more than the first one. Lots about wine, as the title suggests. They are set in the Dordogne, in Southwest France. Currently reading Owen Laukkanen’s second Deception Cove book, LONE JACK TRAIL, with ex-Marine (and yes, PTSD sufferer) Jess Winslow, and her boyfriend, ex-con Mason Burke, who served 15 years for a murder as a teenager. Burke came to Northwest Washington in the first book to find Lucy, the pit bull mix rescue dog he trained in prison, only to find her with Winslow. Both have to survive attempts on their lives from crooked Sheriff’s Deputies, and in the second book Winslow is a deputy herself, and Burke is a murder suspect. The first one was a very fast read and this one is good so far. Superficial resemblance to the Paula Munier series, but the tone is totally different. These are much more action oriented.
As usual, my short story reading is not mysteries. I read Michael Chabon’s first collection, A MODEL WORLD and Other Stories (written in his 20s). Worth reading, especially the second half, which is five connected stories about a boy (clearly autobiographical) going through his parents’ divorce and their later marriages to other people. The other intrigued me after a friend mentioned him – Robert Walser’s BERLIN STORIES, written after he arrived in Berlin in 1905 to join his older brother, a successful stage designer. This one is quite short (a few pages each) stories about the city, the people, etc. I doubt I’d read another but it makes an interesting change.
Next after the Laukkanen: the new Wallace Stroby, a non series book by the author of the excellent Crissa Stone series.
Jeff, I enjoy our conversations here as much for the digressions as for the talk of books. I think they go hand-in-hand, since one book can just lead to another, and there’s so much serendipity.
A coyote flying by? Hmmm. That’s an interesting idea. John Creasey didn’t really know what a coyote was, did he? My gosh. I just can’t even imagine his personal collection of his own books.
I like to read your comments and comparisons of books. Thank you!
I agree Lesa – the books are interesting, but all the digressions are great too!
I’m not exactly sure what a coyote is, but I’m pretty sure it’s not a bird, right?
It’s a wild dog, Rosemary, smaller than a wolf, larger than a fox.
Jeff, I loved hearing your story about John Creasey – don’t ever stop sharing these things! Was the warehouse full of things Creasey wrote, or his collection of other people’s books too? (Or did he only keep his own?). He sounds like he was quite a character.
The Martin Walker Bruno books sound good, I will look them up. I need to read something set in a warmer place than northern Scotland is at the moment!
Most of the books were his own. Your question about the books reminds me of another story. My late friend Bob also introduced us to a friend of his, the now late horror writer Guy N. Smith. (He died in December, Covid-related.) He lived near the border of Wales, I believe in South Shropshire. He was self-publishing even before ebooks and was very successful with dozens of horror titles, including NIGHT OF THE CRABS (and 10 sequels!) and the unforgettable THE SUCKING PIT. When we visited him he had tons of his books neatly laid out, as well as other books he was selling via catalog. He also wrote soft porn (CONFESSIONS OF A WINDOW CLEANER) and non fiction books about guns and hunting, among other things.
He was quite an entertaining character.
Jeff, Thank you for sharing your stories of authors and books! I really enjoy them.
Good morning. I am still reading The Final Revivial of Opal &Nev. I started this book with a bit of hesitancy because it was being compared to Daisy Jones and The Six, a book I loved. Although there are some similarities, the story stands on its own and is very different. I am thoroughly enjoying it and recommend it (I also recommend Daisy Jones and The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid. One of my favorites of 2019).
On audio I am listening to Murder at an Irish Wedding by Carlene O’Connor. A nice cozy mystery where everyone has a motive to be the killer. I am going with the one least likely. We will see.
Have a wonderful week!
Kathleen, Out of curiosity, is it as hard to keep Siobhan O’Sullivan’s siblings straight when you listen to the book as it is when you read them? I like this series, and, of course, I love the setting. I’m looking forward to her next series, too, set in Dingle in Ireland. But, I have a hard time with all her brothers and sisters.
Now that you mention it, yes it is a bit more difficult to keep them straight. Since they are minor characters in this book, it doesn’t really take away from the story for me.
Sounds like the books need a cast of characters at the front.
Or, at least a list of the siblings with where they stand in the family!
I’m way behind on the Cork O’Connor but plan to catch up soon. Right now I’m reading historical fiction–Where the Lost Wander by Amy Harmon. Most of my time for the next three days will be spent watching virtual workshops with the Northern Colorado Writers Conference. Today, however, I have time to take a long walk in the park. It should be a beautiful day.
We’re having heavy rain here, Patricia. Enjoy that walk in the park! And, enjoy the writers conference!
Good morning!
MARY JANE by Jessica Anya Blau is set In 1975 in Baltimore, Mary Jane is a 14-year-old whose friends are away for the summer, so she feels lucky to find a nanny position for a 5-year-old girl in the house of a local doctor and his wife. The doctor’s household is nothing like her own–no one cooks, the place is a mess, and the doctor has two house guests for the summer–a famous rock star and his famous movie star wife. The rock star is an addict, and the doctor, a psychiatrist, is supervising his rehab. Mary Jane’s strait-laced parents would be livid if they knew about the situation, but Mary Jane loves the fact that she can contribute (and make money) by preparing home-cooked meals for the family, washing and ironing, and growing to love her miniature charge. She flourishes in this relaxed (some would say too relaxed) atmosphere, where everyone embraces and appreciates her for herself and her talents (she’s a terrific singer, too). It’s a coming-of-age story, fun to read and with a satisfying ending. I received a copy from NetGalley through the Book Club Girls Facebook group. The book will be released May 11.
I had to read THE WINDSOR KNOT by SJ Bennett after Lesa’s strong recommendation, and I really enjoyed it. It portrays Queen Elizabeth at age 90 as a wise, inquisitive, and compassionate (yet always dignified and proper) sovereign who inserts herself into a murder investigation when she feels strongly that the police are barking up the wrong tree. A young Russian musician has been found dead in a compromising position in his guest room at the palace, and the details must be kept from the public at all costs. Other suspicious deaths also seem to be related. Since the Queen cannot actively pursue the investigation, she trusts her Assistant Private Secretary, Rozie, to do what she cannot, putting herself into physical jeopardy at times. But Rozie, from Nigeria, has served in the military, has a brilliant mind, and knows how to take care of herself. The mystery is a bit convoluted, and we have to rely on a pages-long explanation toward the end of the book to figure out how the clues play out, but I really enjoyed this unorthodox crime-fighting duo. This is the author’s first book in what looks to be a series, and I’m sure she will work out the kinks as she continues the story.
I’m 500 pages into THE ROSE COCE by Julia Quinn (out of 624 pages!). I’ll post my review next week.
Sorry, that’s THE ROSE CODE.
And, The Rose Code is by Kate Quinn, Margie. I think you were running out of steam. it must be all of those pages!
I agree with you about The Windsor Knot. I found the people involved to be more interesting than the convoluted explanation of the mystery. I think she’ll work out the issues.
I’ve seen Mary Jane. I wasn’t going to read it, but I’m glad to know it had a satisfying ending. With what I read about it, I worried about the young girl.
Sending hugs!
You’re right about Kate Quinn, Lesa. Sorry about that! I was rushing to get ready for my Thursday 8:00 walk with my new walking group, so I made a few mistakes. It’s funny, though, I saw that Julia Quinn had written the Bridgerton books, and I was surprised because I had her mixed up with Kate Quinn. Sorry, Kate! Sorry, everyone! Hopefully I’m back to normal now.
No wonder you were surprised. Bridgertons and The Rose Code. Quite different!
It is a rainy day here which is perfect for Sally Hepworth’s THE GOOD SISTER. I started it last night and am hooked.
I finished THE LAST BOOKSHOP IN LONDON by Madeline Martin. Thank you for the recommendation, Lesa. It was just a wonderful story with love, loss, hope and reading. The paragraph about why George reads should be hung in every library. I just loved it and recommended it to my daughters who are both avid readers.
Happy reading!
Thank you, Sharon! That just makes me feel good that you liked The Last Bookshop in London. Such a good story. Thank you for passing on the suggestion!
Don’t you love rainy days for reading?
Hi, Sharon. I’m glad you’re liking The Good Sister. It’s in my hold queue at the library, but it’s not here yet. And I saw The Last Bookshop in London at Costco this week. I wish I had bought it!
I think what I liked best about THE LAST BOOKSHOP IN LONDON is that it was ordinary people doing extraordinary things doing the bombing of London as a matter of course. There was no hidden agenda, no villian. It was just a lovely story about the power of reading. I could actually picture all the events happening. I saw on social media that that the author came across a photograph of a women sitting on the rubble of a bombed out building reading and that was her idea for the book.
I am wondering where The Good Sister is going. One of the sisters is on the spectrum. I know from reading previous Hepworth books there will be a twist.
I hope you enjoy the ending of The Rose Code. It still is my favorite book of the year.
Sharon, Yes! That was exactly what was so right about The Last Bookshop in London. And, we all know that’s how the people of London actually were, going about their daily lives despite what was happening. You have it when you say ordinary people doing extraordinary things as a matter of course. It was just a wonderful sory.
You should have bought it. Now, Margie, read Sharon’s spot-on comment below.
Good morning!
William Kent Krueger is on my TBR, both Ordinary Grace and the Cork O’Connor series – so many books, so little time : ).
We are enjoying very typical spring weather of some clouds, some rain and some sun. The buds are growing and opening slowly and I have enjoyed watching the process.
This week I finished reading High-End Finish by Kate Carlisle – the first in the Fixer-Upper Mystery series. Unfortunately, not my cup of tea. I just didn’t connect with the main character and like I said earlier – so many books, so little time – I am going to move on to something else.
I am currently reading Father Elijah by Michael D. O’Brien. Father Elijah is a monk in a monastery in Israel. He is invited to the Vatican and sent on an important mission on behalf of the church. There is a man who is rising in power globally and would like the support of the church and Father Elijah is being sent as he has a common interest with the man – archeology. A fascinating read so far.
Hope you all have a great weekend!
Gretchen, I haven’t tried that series by Kate Carlisle. I like her Bibliophile one.
Isn’t spring wonderful? If I was home reading, as Sharon is, I would love this rainy day.
I love it when people mention authors and books I’ve never heard of – Father Elijah. Sounds interesting.
I agree, so many books, so little time. If you only read one William Kent Krueger someday, try Ordinary Grace.
I loved Ordinary Grace – kind of forgot about him so will look for some of his others. Thanks to another reader I discovered Haylan Beck and read both Lost You and Here and Gone and loved them – couldn’t put them down – so great to discover another author.
Donna, I’m so happy to see readers pick up and discover other books and authors thanks to readers’ comments here!
I’m almost half way through Death by Equine by Annette Dashofy. It was a bit slow to start, but I’m really getting into it.
I’m glad the book has “picked up speed”, Mark.
Jackie decided to comment this week:
I thought your readers might be interested in my current read. I have been reading an Australian author, Keri Arthur, since 2007. She writes romantic paranormals that I love. Usually it’s trilogies or longer series. My favorite was the first, the Riley Jensen series. Currently I am reading her latest series which is self published, the Lizzie Grace series. She is terrific if anyone out there shares my love of paranormal romance.
Jackie
I never heard of Keri Arthur. Tell Jackie I said thank you, and I know there are others here who like paranormal romance. And, we’re happy to hear what she’s reading any time she wants to comment!
Please tell Jackie thanks for the recommendation!
I’ve read both of his books, Ordinary Grace and This Tender Land. I really enjoyed reading them. I haven’t read any of the Cork O’Connor books. It looks like I have some catching up to do.
I think we all have some catching up to do, Bonnie, of some sort or other. He just quietly continues to write beautiful books.
I had had the first Cork O’Connor book by Krueger on my shelves for years but did not read it until a couple of years ago when Richard Robinson recommended the series. I still have only read two in the series but I do like it a lot. And have the next one ready to read.
I read THE PURSUIT OF LOVE by Nancy Mitford, published in 1945, I think. It wasn’t exactly what I expected, but I enjoyed it and that is what matters. It satirizes British aristocracy in the 1920s and 30s, and is at least partly based on Mitford’s family, but I haven’t read about the Mitford family yet so that made no difference to me one way or the other. It went into the early years of the World War II and the hardships at the home front and that is always interesting to me.
I commented a few weeks ago here that I was having a hard time read THE MEANING OF NIGHT by Michael Cox. Well I finally did finish all 700 pages. The last third was a lot better than the first two thirds, but it did not make up for all that I did not like. It got so many good reviews, but I never got into it. But I satisfied my curiosity about the ending so I am glad I did not give up.
I also finished SUNSET OVER SOHO by Gladys Mitchell, which was a group read that I read over four weeks. It was confusing, but I loved the World War II setting, which was a big part of it. And it was published in 1943 so I trust that the depiction of that time was accurate.
I also finished EX LIBRIS by Anne Fadiman… it was a great week for finishing books that had been going for a while. I loved it and will find something else by this author to read.
Tracy, I read THE PURSUIT OF LOVE and LOVE IN A COLD CLIMATE by Nancy Mitford in 1980 when Masterpiece Theatre did an adaptation of the two books (under the second name). They were the first two books in a trilogy (I did not know that until just now) with many of the same characters. The television version had such actors as Judi Dench, Michael Aldredge, Michael Williams (Dench’s late husband), Lucy Gutteridge, among others. I remember finding it hilarious at the time. Yes, it was partly based on the Mitfords – Nancy was the most well known author. Her novels are often partly autobiographical. Her sister Jessica ran away from her aristocratic background and became a Communist (though she married Winston Churchill’s nephew). She later moved to America and wrote THE AMERICAN WAY OF DEATH. Also wrote HONS AND REBELS (DAUGHTERS AND REBELS in the US) about their upbringing. Unity and Diana were close to Hitler. Diana married English Fascist leader Sir Oswald Mosley. Unity shot herself in the head when Britain declared war on Germany. The youngest sister, Deborah, became Duchess of Devonshire after marrying Harold Macmillan’s nephew. Their mother and brother Tom were dedicated Fascists. Father (“Farve”) was a Conservative who supported appeasement, then supported Britain during the war.
I never read nonfiction about the Mitfords because they just sounded like the most messed up family. Thank you, Jeff, for the background.
Thanks for this information, Jeff. Although I recognize the names, I don’t know the differences between the sisters. I do have a book about the Mitford sisters that I will read, but it will be a while before I get to it. My husband had told me a bit about Diana.
I did not know that there was an adaptation for those books and it sounds good, with good actors. I plan to get LOVE IN A COLD CLIMATE, I was just waiting to see how I liked THE PURSUIT OF LOVE.
Tracy, I never met Anne Fadiman, but I met her father and her brother, Kip. Her father brought books to donate to the library when I was Branch Manager on Captiva Library. I was so in awe!
I can imagine how you felt, Lesa. Her family sounds very nice, all of them.
Wow Cool! I first became aware of him as a judge for the Book of the Month Club, which I joined around 1971.
I love the fact that the first thing I often read about Clifton Fadiman is that he was “an American intellectual”. Imagine being identified that way. And, I like this nuggest – In the 1970s he was also senior editor of Cricket Magazine, where he wrote the book review column for children, “Cricket’s Bookshelf”.
I am late posting, I had the second back procedure this morning The nurses told me that I was too my anesthesia, so my BP was low,105/41. I got very cold, they gave me another blanket added another bag of fluids and I drank a lot of water, I was late getting out of there.
I finished the two books I was reading and now too tired to start My Last Name by Eric Schumacher and the Ghosts We Keep by Mason Deaver.
Going to try to get some extra rest today.
I don’t blame you, Carol. Rest up, and take care of yourself. We’ll be here next Thursday.
An hour ago, the 2021 Edgar Awards were announced, so I’m sharing them all with you. I haven’t read any of the winners, but that’s typical for me. I had read some of the nominees, but nothing that went on to win. (I’m much more likely to have read Agatha, Anthony or Lefty Award winners.)
Best Mystery Novel – Djinn Patrol on the Purple Line by Deepa Anappara
Best First Novel by an American Author – Please See Us by Caitlin Mullen
Best Paperback Original – When No One is Watching by Alyssa Cole
Best Fact Crime – Death in Mud Lick: A Coal Country Fight Against the Drug Companies that Delivered the Opioid Epidemic by Eric Eyre
Best Critical Biographical – Phantom Lady: Hollywood Producer Joan Harrison, the Forgotten Woman Behind Hitchcock by Christina Lane
Best Short Story – “Dust, Ash, Flight” by Maaza Mengiste, in Addis Ababa Noir
Best Juvenile – Premeditated Myrtle by Elizabeth C. Bunce
Best Young Adult – The Companion by Katie Alender
Robert L. Fish Memorial Award – “The Bike” by Collette Bancroft, in Tampa Bay Noir
Mary Higgins Clark Award – The Cabinets of Barnaby Mayne by Elsa Hart
Sue Grafton Memorial Award – Vera Kelly Is Not a Mystery by Rosalie Knecht
Raven Award – Malice Domestic
Ellery Queen Award – Reagan Arthur
Thanks for posting this, Lesa. I’ve never heard of most of the winners, I must admit, typical of the MWA choices. Sad.
That’s how I feel, Jeff. I always feel as if I’m pretty familiar with the mystery field, and then the Edgars come along.
Thanks for the Edgar winners list, Lesa. The only winner on this list I have even heard of is Malice Domestic.
As I said, Kaye, I haven’t read any of the titles on the list. I’ve heard of Alyssa Cole and Elisa Hart, but I haven’t read their books.
The only one I’ve read on that list was Phantom Lady. I haven’t heard of most of them
I’ve never heard of any of these. Who is choosing these nominees?
That’s how I often feel, Glen, when I look at the Edgars list.
Finished RED WIDOW and while I was caught up at first, I didn’t love it. I think I prefer Joe Finder’s “spy for hire” to the real thing, perhaps. Now I’m diving back into my TBR pile, Halfway through Barbara Hambly’s HOUSE OF THE PATRIARCH, the latest in her Benjamin January series (or maybe not the latest… I’ve fallen behind). I’ve got Linda L. Richard’s ENDINGS, Leslie Budewitz (aka Alicia Beckman)’s BITTERROOT LAKE, and Hank Phillippi Ryan’s THE FIRST TO LIE all piled up to read. Not sure which one will be next!
Thank you for the answer to the question about Red Widow, Clea. You know, I’ve never read Barbara Hambly’s Benjamin January books. Another series (sigh). Just what I need. Sounds as if you have a TBR pile as bad as mine!
Thank you for stopping by to talk about what you’re reading! It’s always fun to see what others are reading!
Thanks for all the new to me books…I did put a few on my library hope to read list…I am reading a ??stand alone by Heather Graham – Danger in Numbers that I hope will be the first in a series…
Fun, isn’t it Gram? Now, I’m going to have to look up Danger in Numbers to see if it’s something I’d like. Everyone here knows I’m addicted to her Krewe of Hunters series.
Been really busy the last couple of days, but still able to find a little time to read.
I read American Traitor by Brad Taylor; Pike and Jennifer find themselves up against a Chi-com hit squad looking to facilitate the takeover of Taiwan. The heroes are a bit confused, as they’re used to taking out Islamo-terrorists.
Jim The Conqueror by Peter B. Kyne; Thought this was going to be some sort of high adventure, turned out to be 1920’s era romance. I was struck by how little the genre has changed, despite a century of feminism.
For Kicks by Dick Francis; Stable owner is hired to find out who is doping horses. Could almost have been written at the time as Jim, but published 36 years later.
Couple of zombie novels, Zombie Maelstrom and Emergence: Infection; At least the author of Emergence put a little thought into his zombies.
I didn’t read a lot of Dick Francis. My siser did. I think they were just old-fashioned, good stories. I’m glad an author put thought into his zombies. That made me laugh, Glen.
I absolutely loved Dick Francis and have all “his” books in signed hardcovers, most of them 1st editions. I’m currently reading “What the Devil Knows” by C.S. Harris, but the other day I noticed my old TBR shelves that have a lot of really good books I’ve ignored for years. Some are by authors who have left us. I may read “The Innocent” by Magdalen Nabb after this. She’s another author I always enjoyed.
Magdalen Nabb is another author, LJ, that I only recognize by name, but have never read. My sister is right there with you in loving Dick Francis’ books.
I’m another fan of Krueger’s Ordinary Grace and This Tender Land who hasn’t read the series! I just finished The Lost Apothecary by Sarah Penner, a terrific debut set in modern London and London in 1791. Working my way through Ruth Ware; I think The Lying Game is next.
I thought The Lost Apothecary was a terrific debut, too, Leslie. I was intrigued by the mudlarking aspect. I had never heard of it until I heard Penner talk about it last year.
I’m a day late (probably also a dollar short) getting here, as it’s after 11am Friday, but yesterday was a bit of a curdle and I was unable to visit you.
My county in Oregon has reverted to Covid 19 Extreme level, so things are shut again, though there is still “safe pickup” at the library. Thus I got and read THE THREE LOCKS by Bonnie Macbird, the 4th in her Sherlock Holmes pastiche series. Going against other reviewers, I found it to be the weakest of the four. I still think the first was the best.
I also read SF short stories from THE FANTASTIC UNIVERSE OMNIBUS, (1960), and some pulp crime stories from WHEN THE DEATH-BAT FLIES, the Detective Stories of Norvell Page.
William Kent Krueger is my favorite currently writing author, and I love his Cork O’Connor books, having read each thrice. I can’t wait for LIGHTENING. I was in the room at Milwaukee Bouchercon when George Easter gave Kent the Barry for IRON LAKE and have been a fan since reading it the next day. I want a burger at Sam’s Place! I’m not sure ORDINARY GRACE is the best starting place for him, instead I’d go with an O’Connor book, either the first or BOUNDARY WATERS which is the second.
NARROWBOAT SUMMER lingers out of reach at the library, so today I’ll start the 4th Bryant & May book by Christopher Fowler, TEN SECOND STAIRCASE, as well as continuing the thick Page collection (700+ pages) and wait to see what pops up at the library from my long holds list.
I was surprised at the Edgar best novel winner; hadn’t even heard of it.
The Edgars are always a surprise, aren’t they, Richard?
I still need to try Bonnie Macbird’s Sherlock Holmes books. I’ve heard such great things about them.
Maybe Ordinary Grace isn’t the best place to start with William Kent Krueger’s mysteries, but I’m a big fan of coming-of-age stories, and that’s one of the best.