The Mighty Red - Louise Erdrich

Genre: Historical (2008?) Fiction; Literary Fiction

The novels of Louise Erdrich never fail to challenge me. I admire her breadth of knowledge, her commitment to culture, and her extraordinary writing. Reading her newest The Mighty Red, displayed all of her talents and definitely challenged me. 

I genuinely don’t have the chops to write a critical review of Louise Erdrich. So, like I’ve done in the past, I’m just going to talk about what I like. She forces me to think about the choices I make impacting our earth in my day to day living. In spite of growing up among corn fields and farmers, I am not as aware of the issues of farmers and farming as I could be. I respect her exploration of the treatment of the land, and its impact on the country surrounding the Red River. I know from my farming friends that their choices are never easy and making a living often seems impossible. I see small farms struggling to stay relevant. I appreciate Erdrich’s exploration of these issues from every angle. I admire her characters. Crystal and Kismet are strong women. Winnie has her own kind of strength as well. They are strong women fighting on a number of fronts. And in the case of Crystal and Kismet, they are strong women who believe a tiny bit in magic and a great deal in the power of their ancestors. The supporting characters (the men?) are equally well developed. Erdrich has a gift in creating people who are neither wholly good nor evil. They are as equally complex as the people in our lives. The setting is uncomfortably aligned with my own: small town life - surrounding farms. People struggle;are victims of an economy they can’t control; get up, go to work, use icy hot and look for small reasons to celebrate. They love and they lose. Everyone mostly knows (they think) everyone else’s business. Mistakes can follow you for a very long time in a small town. Erdrich expertly captures the vicissitudes of such lives. 

In and among all of the chaos of these lives in The Mighty Red, Erdrich captures hope. When completing an Orion questionnaire online Erdrich responded “Yes. What is the alternative?” when asked if she was optimistic about the future. I value this response primarily because her honesty about problematic issues is unflinching, and she is using her art in a way that will hopefully raise awareness and effect change. After all, what is the alternative?

Erdrich, Louise. “Louise Erdrich Answers the Orion Questionnaire.” Orion, Orion Magazine, 1 Oct. 2024, orionmagazine.org/article/louise-erdrich-orion-questionnaire. 

The French Winemaker's Daughter - Loretta Ellsworth

Genre: Historical Fiction (WWII)

Loretta Ellsworth’s The French Winemaker’s Daughter reminds me of the horrors of World War II - Martine, a little Jewish girl,  hiding in an armoire and forced to find her way in a war torn world without her dear Papa and only family who was taken away by the Germans. I am always stunned by what victims of war must endure. She adds to it the story of the winemakers of France - and how the Germans stole from them and harmed their legacy for generations. Ellsworth intertwines Martine’s story with that of Charlotte, an airline pilot, charting her own course for women, in the 90s. Her home base is in Paris, and through an auction and a rather horrible “boyfriend” she comes into possession of a bottle of wine from the WWII era. A mysterious note and second label sets her on a journey to find its story and perhaps its owner.

The WWII historical setting in the Paris area was a fascinating one. We learn about the making of wine; we learn about the French resistance; we learn about how people worked to save Jewish children (and are reminded of how some did not.) In the 90s as Charlotte works to solve her mystery - we learn a great deal of the intervening history. We also learn a bit about how recently women have been fighting for career equity as well through Charlotte’s struggle as a female pilot. We have so many lessons to learn. Ellsworth does a remarkable job of bringing these characters to life in both eras. Martine must grow up so quickly. She struggles through new names, learning a second faith. She struggles to trust and live as the only child in an abbey filled with nuns. Ellsworth foreshadows her future, and we long to find out what happens to her. I didn’t relate perfectly with Charlotte and her jet setting life in Paris, but her quest was one to admire. She is determined to do the right thing by this WW2 era winemaker and his daughter while learning some things about her own family, love, and strength on the way. 

I recommend this book - history, romance, and the voices of women make it an important read. I think it’s very important to be reminded that we can work to try to not fix, not right, but maybe ease the pain of mistakes of the past. Many are quick to refuse accountability and insist that moving forward is the only way to move forward. We can do better. I’m beginning to also believe that we can never ever be reminded of the failures of history too many times. Too often the world just seems to be walking down painfully similar paths. Historians matter. Authors matter. The arts matter. I can’t do as much as I’d like to change the world at large. But maybe I can keep saying those words and return a bottle of wine. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for sharing an ARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Book Cover - The French Winemaker’s Daughter by Loretta Ellsworth

Christmas with the Queen - Hazel Gaynor & Heather Webb

Genre: Historical, Romance, Holiday

A perfectly delightful holiday, historical read. Christmas with the Queen by Hazel Gaynor and Heather Webb hits all the right notes. Olive, a single mother, wishes to be taken seriously as the royal correspondent for the BBC. She fights the battle of many women of the 50s to be taken seriously in her career - in her case a journalist. Jack dreams of being the head chef in his own restaurant. When the novel begins, he takes a job with the royal palace kitchen in an effort to distract himself from grief at the loss of his young wife. A young Queen Elizabeth is learning to be queen after the devastating loss of her father. The paths of these three meet in Sandringham at Christmas in 1952, and we get to follow them for several years. It turns out Jack and Olive met at the end of the great war and have a history of sorts. So mixed in with their present we get flashbacks to the past.

Historically speaking, the Queen gets her own narrative. Her voice seems very much like the footage I’ve heard. I really enjoy the insight into her early life. I am not obsessed with the royals, but I am interested enough. I’ve seen “The Crown” and done some reading. Though fictionalized, the authors’ research really helped to flesh out some of what I already knew. They humanize her and Philip, making her accessible to the reader. The fifties in London is a fascinating setting. The impact of World War II is certainly felt. The experiences change the approach of many people to life. It seems they are infinitely more practical and take little for granted. Jack’s and Olive’s narratives work well too. A fairly big secret (no spoilers!) is at the heart of the story. The alternating narratives help to build suspense while gradually revealing their history. I really enjoyed how the time was consistently marked by Christmas. I liked the pause to consider how the characters grew and changed over the course of a year.

Once again, a gentle reminder of how women’s rights have changed over time. (or not changed?) Olive had to disappear when she was pregnant out of wedlock and lie about being a war widow. She is treated lesser than at the BBC, and has to work awfully hard to earn the right to write the stories she wished for. While I am left wondering about change, I am grateful for the women who paved the way for me. Those are heavy thoughts, but If you like your Christmas books with some pretty cool history and a bit of mystery and romance thrown in, Gaynor and Webb’s Christmas with the Queen is just right! Give yourself the gift of reading it this Christmas. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

The Little Italian Hotel - Phaedra Patrick

Genre - Contemporary Fiction 

I have always wanted to visit Italy - authentic Italy - not the touristy one. Phaedra Patrick’s The Little Italian Hotel is a really close substitute for that visit right now. Ginny prides herself in the advice she gives to listeners on her radio show. One day a listener suggests that Ginny’s life isn’t as perfect as she portrays it. Imagine her surprise when very soon after she learns her husband wishes to separate. She is stunned, and in her confusion she offers to take some of those very listeners with her on the anniversary trip to Italy that she will NOT be taking with her husband. Her time at the Hotel Splendido - with strangers who are mourning their own losses proves to be excellent for her, creating an excellent read for me. 

The Hotel Splendido is not a luxury, resort-like hotel. Instead, it is a small family operation serving authentic Italian cuisine and small comfy rooms. Some might call it rustic, I guess. It turns out to be the perfect place for bonds to be formed among these strangers who are all trying to heal from - the loss of a pet, a terminal diagnosis, a broken marriage, an ill parent, and the loss of a child & aging. They come in a variety of ages, from a wide range of experiences. They share meals,  take day trips, get to know the locals, and try new things. They have heartfelt conversations, have ups and downs, and ultimately bond. The characters are very well drawn and realistic. 

I love these second chance sort of coming of age in adulthood books. I appreciate the reminder that we never stop learning. We all know how life can take a turn at any time. We folks of an older sort can choose to remain set in our ways and allow these changes to steal our joy. Or we can learn resilience and embrace the change and tackle challenges that we never dreamed of before. Together the characters in this book do just that. If you need an Italian vacation or a little boost in the face of loss and change or just a fun, poignant, and feel good read Phaedra Patrick’s The Little Italian Hotel is for you. 

Swan Song - Elin Hilderbrand

Genre - Contemporary Fiction, Mystery

Is November the wrong time to listen to a summer Nantucket novel - Swan Song by Elin Hilderbrand? I’m going to say no time is the wrong time. Police chief Ed Kapanash is ready to retire. He is even having a little celebration when he hears that there has been a catastrophic fire at the Richardson’s multimillion dollar home and that their personal concierge Coco is missing. Since Coco is his daughter Casey’s friend, he feels obligated to oversee the investigation. Through flashbacks we learn about the arrival of the exotic Richardsons on Nantucket - their glittering parties and their colorful impact on many of the residents who live there. 

The people that Hilderbrand creates are part of what I most love about her work. The glittering Richardsons reminded me just a bit of Jay Gatsby. They turn up out of nowhere and buy the biggest gaudiest home. They create spectacular themed parties and the invites to them become coveted among the Nantucket crew. The ladies vie for her attention. Relationships  - long time friendships are in danger of fracturing. Leslie Richardson has a knack for pitting them against one another. Police chief Ed weaves in and out in the before of the fire and in the after. He is not sure about retirement, so perhaps he welcomes the swan song - one more mystery to solve. The timeline expertly builds suspense and contributes to the mystery. I always love seeing Hilderbrand’s depiction of Nantucket, even though I can’t wait to see what she does next. She captures the spirit of the place again here (as I imagine it must be anyway). Beach trips and summer celebrations abound. And something about the insular spirit of an island contributes to the relationships. 

Elin Hilderbrand’s Swan Song is more than just a fun, beach read. For me, it worked quite nicely in November - a good time to remember to be grateful, embrace friendship and family, and do the things you love. And boy howdy, the end will get you, no spoilers! If, like me, you missed the novel this summer, find some time to read it now; you won’t regret it. 

Go As A River - Shelley Read

Genre - Historical Fiction

Narrator - Cynthia Farrell

Victoria Nash who is 17 as Shelly Read’s Go As a River begins is forced to grow up quickly when a forbidden love affair ends violently and results in pregnancy. She is alone and running a household of men, and must find out where she can gain strength. For her, a strength that I’m not sure I possess at 58, is often rooted in the rhythms of nature: the family peach orchard, a garden, the flow of a river. The novel extends well into the 70s, and I’m grateful to have seen so much of her life.

The novel is very character driven. While Wilson Moon’s brief presence in the novel permeates the rest of it, we spend most of our time with Victoria. Wilson, who as a native American endures much prejudice, tells Victoria that he has learned to go as a river, establishing the metaphor that frames the rest of the novel. She learns through heartbreak, fear, and loss to do the same. She finds a way to flow forward every time the river of her life is dammed. She was raised in the west on farm land; has extraordinary responsibility at a young age, has ambitions, and finds the resourcefulness to achieve them. We are deeply a part of Victoria’s internal life.  The setting here functions much like a character as well. The town of Iola, while composed of different folks, seems as one body influencing Victoria throughout. She feels differently than they in terms of Wilson and in terms of the future of her farm. The community is not supportive, and she thrives much better when away from Iola. The government taking over land to build a dam that will flood that community becomes a very important plot point. Read’s language is beautiful. The content here can be tough - the struggles are painful and real, but Read frames them in gorgeous descriptions of nature that can remind us of beauty in the most horrific of times. She creates poetry. I was listening or I’d quote you some; Cynthia Farrell did a lovely job with the narration. The juxtaposition of beautiful language with the often harsh circumstances in the content - represents nicely how life holds the beautiful and the ugly often at the exact same time. 

Shelley Read’s Go As A River is a timely reminder of the struggle of women in history. Victoria’s struggle reminds me of how privileged my life is and how precious are the rights that allow me that privilege. Her tenacity scoffs at my wish to feel hopeless at times in the face of challenges to them. We owe it to these women who came before us to continue to fight their good fight. We owe it to our daughters and granddaughters to do the same. 

Holiday Hideaway - Mary Kay Andrews

Holiday Hideaway - Mary Kay Andrews

Readers, Mary Kay Andrews’ “Holiday Hideaway” is likely just what you need right now. In this short story, Tilly has fallen on rough times - a divorce has left her without the funds she needs to have a place to live short term. She takes a chance and with her dog moves into a rental that hasn’t been rented for some time. She just needs some breathing room. Imagine her surprise when homeowner George Callihan shows up. He is inspecting the place and planning to do the work needed to make it sellable. She wonders if she can hide in the attic? Shenanigans abound!

Andrews does a lovely job of developing the characters in the format of the short story. We get to know them and to enjoy the slow burn as they begin to get to know each other again. The holiday vibe is a fun addition to the setting. Among the romance and holiday celebration, Andrews reminds her readers of the importance tradition and the strength of family. She leaves us with a lovely hopefulness for the future.

So, if you need a short break - “Holiday Hideaway” will offer just the respite that you need. Here would also be a good place to mention Bright Lights; Big Christmas  - a novel by Mary Kay Andrews if you need a longer escape. Great holiday reading. 

Holiday Hideaway book cover Mary Kay Andrews

The Little Liar - Mitch Albom

Genre: Historical Fiction

Mitch Albom’s The Little Liar does not disappoint. He expertly weaves together the stories of three Jewish children: Nico, Sebastian, and Fannie from their childhood in Salonika, Greece at the beginning of World War II. Their paths tragically cross with that of Udo Graff, a German Nazi officer. Nico, a child who never lies, is tricked into lying. The tragedy that follows changes the entire trajectory of his personality and so his life. Sebastian who is already jealous and a bit bitter becomes even more so. Fanny who loves them both in her way, completes a painful journey of her own. Udo Graff remains unbearably cruel throughout. Narrated by Truth, this book explores WWII, the horror it brings, and the hope that survives. 

Albom is a master storyteller. I will read whatever he writes and was late to this one. In a short work he creates complex characters: representing pure evil, jealousy, survival and self loathing. I quickly became engrossed in their world.Albom weaves together multiple narrative perspectives seamlessly, creating suspense and intrigue.  I have read so many accounts of WWII and was not at all familiar with the events as they transpired in Greece. Impeccably researched, Albom makes this horrific world come alive. While I didn’t get exactly the ending I wanted, I got the ending that is most realistic for this period in time.

I currently live in a world where people talk about war quite casually. We see the carnage in real time on TV. Many think that they would welcome war. The cost of war is enormous. The effects go on for far longer than many realize. These ideas are well illustrated in The Little Liar by Mitch Albom. Literature helps us to learn and to remember. We would do well to do both. 

The Hunter - Tana French

Genre: Mystery, suspense

Narrator: Roger Clark

I loved The Hunter by Tana French - that’s the clever hook. I love how Roger Clark performs this work. Picking up several years after the end of The Searcher, Trey and Cal have cemented their tenuous friendship and have built a furniture repair business together.  They have a system worked out - Cal can keep an eye on Trey. She can retain her own sense of independence. But then Trey’s dad returns to Ardnakelty, and their fragile peace is disrupted. Talk of hidden gold and thoughts of revenge abound, and ultimately a murder; the whole community is involved.

Although I call this mystery and, of course, it is, the novel is very much character driven. I struggle mightily with classification of books - identifying literary vs. not, etc - but French’s development of character and setting is next level. Cal is very complex. I feel like we know less about him than I’d like. I hope this means another book in the series, but maybe this is just life, right? We really only know what people want us to know. I love his relationship with Trey. His willingness to do whatever it takes to protect her is quite powerful. The fact that she ultimately returns that devotion is a relief. I remember in The Searcher struggling to identify the bad guys and the same is true here. I’m just never sure about the “good” people of Ardnakelty. Neither is Trey. She continues to grow and change and work with the anger she feels toward them. Her reaction to her father, the hurt - and the growth in her relationship with her mom were beautifully shown. The murder mystery, while for me, more of a vehicle to let these characters grow, is complex and well written. The world of Ardnakelty is a bit different than the norm for me. These folks are mysterious and quite willing to engage in shenanigans, sometimes of the dangerous kind. They are a wide variety of con men and shysters who connive together and then farm and go home to their wives. I hope to get to see much more of Cal and Trey and the people of Ardnakelty.

For me this book worked excellently on two levels. I do enjoy a good mystery and French delivers. I also am drawn to books that are character driven, and this novel is. I love that I’ve come to know these characters and also that so much mystery about them remains. French shows us that some people will never change while others will grow and mature. She forces us to be satisfied with what is but gives us a  hope that cannot be denied. I wish you would find the time to read The Hunter by Tana French.

The Last List of Mabel Beaumont - Laura Pearson

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Do we ever stop coming of age? Mabel Beaumont would suggest that we do not. By working to complete her list in The Last List of Mabel Beaumont by Laura Pearson, Mabel shows us that change can come whatever our age. Mabel feels lost after the death of her husband - uncertain how she is going to put one foot in front of the other without him. But even after death she feels looked after by him. She finds a mysterious note that reads “find D,”and with the help of a companion that her husband has hired to look out for her for three months, she sets out on a quest to find her long lost best friend Dot thinking that is what Arthur had in mind for her. Along the way she meets others and her list of things to accomplish grows. Through all of these things, she reflects on the past and comes to know herself in a new way. With echoes of A Man Called Ove and The Story of Arthur Truluv, and The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper,  her journey is a beautiful one to experience.

Mabel is prickly, and I’m here for it. As the story begins, she clearly hasn’t had to navigate friendships in a long while. As she gathers her groups of ladies, she feels in her heart that she knows what they need. As a friend who is working to stretch herself, she boldly works toward meeting those needs. As she learns that perhaps she doesn’t know as much as she thinks she does, she must learn to apologize and to wait patiently for forgiveness (or not). I love how Pearson develops the disparate stories of each of these ladies who find hope and help in each other - a reminder of all that even very different women may have in common. All of these stories help Mabel plumb her own past and reckon with the decisions that she’s made over the years. We get glimpses into her past and into her marriage. She and Arthur had their struggles to be sure. Their marriage might not be one that the world would define as traditionally happy and successful. And yet a loving partnership is formed than many could only wish for. I love what Pearson does here - she threads a needle and creates a beautiful tapestry. 

I need often to be reminded that we are never too old to grow and change. I believe that, but sometimes I forget. I also forget how much life has changed in a lifetime like Mabel Beaumont’s. I am going to avoid spoilers, but Mabel’s self discovery was likely easier after the intervening 60 years that she had to process it. Although she is not bitter, we are reminded how far we’ve come and to not take that for granted. Simultaneously, we are also reminded how much work we’ve yet to do. I love being reminded by The Last List of Mabel Beaumont by Laura Pearson that we are never too old to change. Hmmm…on what should I focus?

The Lost Book of Bonn - Brianna Libuskes

Genre: Historical Fiction - WW2

Narrator: Christa Lewis

Literature matters. Librarians matter. The protest of right minded citizens matters. Love matters. All of these and more are illustrated through Brianna Libuskes’ The Lost Book of Bonn. When librarian Emmy Clarke travels to Germany at the close of WWII to work towards restoring books that the Nazis confiscated to their owners, she is mourning the death of her soldier husband. Her response to a beautifully inscribed book of poetry  - her desire to return it to its home feels so logical. She sneaks the book out and sets out on a quest to find the owner. Other chapters explore the wartime lives of Annelise and Christiana Fisher and their very different experiences. Annelise is part of the Edelweiss Pirates-a German resistance group, and Christiana is following the nazi party line. They love each other, but the differences between them lead to betrayal and heartache - particularly involving Eitan, whom Annelise loves. This book is a multilayered look at the tragedies of WWII.

Because I read so many books about it, I often wonder who I would have been in WWII. I would love to think I’d be an Annelise - a rebel, who instinctively knows very early on that Hitler has all the wrong ideas. And no matter what family or friends say, I would have no fear in working toward resistance and freedom. I think, though, that I’d likely be a Christiana, seeking refuge and belonging in the following of rules and looking for approval from the folks in charge. Brianna portrays these girls both beautifully. While you might side with one, you understand both.  The love the sisters have for each other in many ways transcends their differences. When the ultimate betrayal happens, I mourned for both and railed at the war that fostered such pain. Eitan has lost his family and his love.  Emmy is a young widow. Tragedy and sadness abound. Lubuskes’ characters are beautifully wrought and offer insight into the darkness of war.

I appreciate here - so much - the value that is assigned to literature. I worry most days now about censorship and book banning - thinking it would never be a common “thing” in the United States. Now…sometimes I wonder. Authors are being challenged more and more. Without being political (see…Christiana here) I hate the idea that anyone in government feels they have the right to decide what I, my children, and my grandboy read. As always when the novel is about war, I leave The Lost Book of Bonn by Brianna Libuskes exhausted by the evil that comes with this kind of conflict. But also, I am in awe of the resilience of the people working to combat the evil.  The Lost Book of Bonn serves as a timely reminder of the importance of culture - literature matters.

The Banned Bookshop of Maggie Banks - Shauna Robinson

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Narrator: Imani Jade Powers

In The Banned Bookshop of Maggie Banks by Shauna Robinson, Maggie Banks feels out of options. She had been staying with her mom & dad since she lost her last job. When her best friend offers her a temporary job in her bookshop while she is on maternity leave and a place to stay, Maggie can’t resist. She is not prepared for the battle she faces with the local literary society - no silliness allowed, no modern books, no events - her struggle leads her to create financial woes for the bookshop that is her friend’s sole source of income. Her creative response creates a lovely community but threatens her unexpected romance. Delightfully performed by Imani Jade Powers, this was an entertaining and thoughtful read. 

Maggie is a well developed character - this I know, in part, because she drives me absolutely crazy in some parts. If this old lady can get frustrated with a character’s decisions that means she is brought to life well. And when I say frustrated, I mean she seemed to be making decisions constantly that just didn’t seem sensible - and I know that is all part of the lives we live. But the mom vibe is strong in me, and I remember the frustration of keeping my mouth shut when I wanted so much to “guide” my young adult kids who needed to make their own mistakes. Anyhow, excellent characterization. I loved the setting: the town and the bookstore. I enjoy a good historical author tour and town. While the literary society in this town is next level for some, the conflict that ensues between old school and new ideas helps create an interesting plot.  I am sure the push/pull that Robinson illustrates is fairly common in historical towns. The book did have a bit of a Hallmark movie feel to me, which I like.

Books and the reading of them have been a pivotal part of my life for as long as I can remember. I have spent the better part of my adult life working with students as an English teacher and librarian  - influencing them in terms of books and reading. In The Banned Bookshop of Maggie Banks - Shauna Robinson takes me on a journey with Maggie. English teachers never love to hear that through exploring the classics they’ve made students hate reading. But, nonetheless, we hear it. And while we weave in more contemporary work and independent choices, we persevere with the classics. I enjoyed watching Maggie’s journey with reading. I am no longer teaching, so what I do with all the thoughts about reading that this novel inspired in me, remains to be seen.  I enjoyed The Banned Bookshop of Maggie Banks by Shauna Robinson book at a variety of levels - I think you will too. 

The Second Mrs. Astor - Shana Abé

Genre: Historical Fiction

Narrator - Lauren Ezzo

If you are interested in the gilded age, its people, or by the tragedy of The Titanic, The Second Mrs. Astor by Shana Abé is a must read. Abé traces the relationship between Madeleine Talmage Force  and the scandalously divorced John Jacob Astor. In spite of the 29 year difference between them (he has a son very near her age), their love is portrayed as sincere. Society refuses to accept their marriage, and they set off on an extended honeymoon to Egypt with their return to take place on the Titanic. Lauren Ezzo narrates this gilded age historical novel drawing us into their rarefied world.

Abé does a remarkable job with the character of Madeleine Force Astor. She is a remarkably composed 17 year old girl when she catches the eye of John Jacob Astor - some three years after he catches hers. I liked that detail in terms of establishing her as an autonomous woman. She is innocent and in spite of her father’s warning, not fully prepared for the repercussions of her entry into Astor’s world in terms of both society and the press, but she is simultaneously wise and strong in working toward a relationship where she is as much of an equal player as the era allows. She is supported by her friendship with Margaret (the unsinkable Molly) Brown who is able to guide Madeleine through the difficulties encountered - meeting her where much of society would not. Her growth to an incredibly self possessed and strong woman is well portrayed. The glimpse Abé gives us into the gilded age is fascinating.I was unaware of the voraciousness of the reporting of the time. Somehow I thought the paparazzi were a more modern day problem. Their “reporting” does nothing to help Madeleine be accepted into Astor’s world and much to her disgust  - the same reporters try to make her a hero after the Titanic’s sinking. Abé provides insight into key players in the Titanic tragedy as well. I am impressed with how well she creates drama and builds suspense when the ending has already been written in history.

 I’ve watched the HBO Max Gilded Age series, read a number of other books, and been fascinated by the era and its people for some time. The same is true of the tragedy of the Titanic. Shana Abé’s The Second Mrs. Astor offered some very interesting reading about these. In the process she gave a unique look at love and what it can endure and the strength required to survive its loss. 

The Man Who Died Twice & The Bullet That Missed - Richard Osman

Genre: Mystery; Humor

Narrator: Lesley Manfield & Fiona Shaw

Listening to The Thursday Murder Club  Book 2 - The Man who Died Twice and Book 3 The Bullet that Missed by Richard Osman felt a bit like coming home to me in a very good way. Voiced by Lesley Manfield and Fiona Shaw, the novels continue to show how Joyce, Ron, Ibrahim, and Elizabeth make living in a retirement community look like quite an adventure. In Book 2 - a mysterious man from Elizabeth’s past comes to the community with a tale of stolen diamonds and a mystery that ultimately involves, well murder. In Book 3 the adventures continue with the exploration of a murdered TV star and all kinds of laundered money. And while the four detectives and their friends work through these mysteries, we are lucky enough to briefly be a part of their lives, loves, and losses. 

I wrote about the original The Thursday Murder Club  - and much of what I like remains the same. And there’s more now…two more books in. I really like all of the characters, but Joyce wins the show for me in these two. I love the form of a diary entry. She is charming; she is clueless…I laughed more than once over her instagram for example. She is a delight. Her care for Ibrahim and the others in her circle, including Allen the dog, is touching again and again. The friendship that develops between her and Elizabeth is just as satisfying as a romance for this reader. Ron, Bogdan, and Donna find their own romances. I am fascinated by how well Osman creates this world where crime bosses, spies, police, counselors, and all manner of people interact as if such is all quite normal. Horrible criminals can seem vulnerable; money launderers lovable. Joyce can be staring down the barrel of the gun and just carrying on a conversation. The whole premise is entertaining, but also -  intended or not - I like the idea that people are portrayed as complex and that as we get older we become much more accepting of that complexity.  Both mysteries are entertaining - clues and red herrings and suspense abounds.

Perhaps what I enjoyed the most here is the growth Osman creates in nearly all of the characters. They all are dealing with trauma and loss at some level, but they find happiness in a number of ways (some quite dangerous :-) They are building a community and that is a delight to watch. You all - The Man Who Died Twice and The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman - are a great read!

The Man Who Died by Richard Osman Book Cover

The Bullet That Missed by Richard Osman Book Cover

Clover Hendry's Day Off - Beth Morrey

Genre: Contemporary Fiction; Humor

Narrator: Imogen Church

Have you ever had just the smallest thing set you off? In Beth Morrey’s Clover Hendry’s Day Off, for Clover it appears to be her husband putting forks in the dishwasher the opposite of how she preferred. Honestly, does she have to do every single thing by herself? She clunks her head and self treats with some pretty powerful pain meds and then some antihistamine in case she has a reaction to the pain meds. What follows, then, is a day marked by frankness, independence, sassiness, and a whole lot of self reflection. 

The hilarity and entertainment of watching Clover, wife, mother, and employee, spend a day doing just exactly what she wants - is pure delight, at first. She takes a deserved day off work; she swims where and when she wants to; she “rescues” a rabbit; she stands up for herself again and again. Being just a bit older than her, I appreciate and understand many of her frustrations. I loved seeing her come into her own - and find her voice. The flashbacks to her past made my feelings a bit more complex. Her husband was clearly not just a self centered guy in the kitchen. Their love story was special and unique. Hints surface that indicate her career was marked with some darkness - perhaps more influential than the forks in her very rebellious day. Morrey expertly balances the laugh out loud funny and the serious reflection and sadness. She captures expertly the complexity of Clover’s character - going far beyond stereotype. 

Beth Morrey’s Clover Hendry’s Day Off is a delightful mix of humor and seriousness. I appreciate how Imogen Church’s narration brings Clover to life - further engaging me. I think we all have things in our pasts that we wish we had handled differently. We don’t often get a do over. Clover reminds me that with age and experience more strength can come. If we can tap into it, perhaps we can create some change - perhaps in how we see our own worth. Ladies, read this book. 

Book Cover of Clover Hendry’s Day Off by Beth Morrey

All the Colors of the Dark - Chris Whitaker

Genre: Historical Fiction, Suspense, Mystery

Narrator:  Edoardo Ballerini

The socials lured me into reading this All the Colors of the Dark by Chris Whitaker, and I’m glad they did. I am thinking of how best to do a summary and finding it quite difficult - the book covers a great deal of time and feels somewhat like an epic. Patch and Saint  - who each have their heartrending struggles become the closest of friends. One day Patch interrupts the abduction of a teenage girl - setting in motion a chain of events that alters their lives forever. He is captured instead - and Saint remains obsessed with finding him long after others have given up. When he is found, he spends the rest of his life looking for Grace - in captivity with him long after others cease to believe in her. Tragedy and hope unfold in the thirty plus years that follow. Narrated by Edoardo Ballerini, this book works for me at a number of levels. 

First for me as per usual is character development. A beautiful friendship develops between Patch and Saint - in part because they struggle with poverty, difficult home lives, not fitting in at school. Their problems intensify after Patch’s captivity as each of them remain committed to their goals. They care for each other in ways throughout their lives that evidence a level of devotion seldom seen. The people in their small town have difficult lives as well, but again and again they find ways to stand with these two. Whitaker’s plotting is also excellent. He tracks these main characters for decades, maintaining interest the entire time. The book becomes as  much a study of life in this one small town as it does a novel of mystery and suspense. I have been reading a fair number of novels that explore the impact of just one decision on a life, and such an impact is illustrated here through Patch’s split second decision to involve himself in the abduction. Such a noble instinct that goes so very wrong for him. Saint remains devoted to him her entire life - another very impactful decision. Finally, the whole notion of being shaped by what is missing for many in this book - by a fractured family and poverty is expertly illustrated. . I was reminded of Demon Copperhead - wanting to better his life but at the mercy of his surroundings - and, of course, his choices - often made as a result of his surroundings. 

So again, I am thinking of my former students - current students - and what they face on the daily that we on the periphery of their lives may not see. I am again saddened that we don’t do better by them. I’m remembering how often I felt helpless in the face of what we could not do for our students and also grateful for what we could do. I like very much how Whitaker captures this in All the Colors of the Dark. And he does so while crafting suspense and complex relationships. Thanks to the socials for the recommendation. 

The Storm We Made - Vanessa Chan

Genre: Historical Fiction

I hate war. I hate everything about it. I can listen to a nuanced explanation of reasons for war - why it happens from a variety of perspectives. Perhaps some part of the explanation might even make sense to me. But a book like Vanessa Chan’s The Storm We Made underscores why I hate war and the conflicts it provokes. Set in Malaya in 1945 and in 1935 - Chan explores the impact of war on one Malaysian family. Both timelines run concurrently in the novel. In 1935 Malaya was occupied by the British. Cecily Alcantara, a young mother, is lured into being a spy for Japan. By 1945, Malaya was occupied by the Japanese. Her entire family is endangered. Her son Abel has been captured and put to work in a Japanese camp. Her daughter Jujube works in a tea house and must deal daily with the Japanese soldiers, and until her disappearance young Jasmin is forced to hide in the basement to avoid being used at a comfort station for Japanese soldiers. Cecily feels the weight of her earlier decisions and horror ensues for them all. 

Chan tells the book from the perspectives of all four main characters and goes back and forth between timelines. Each voice is strong and well developed. Cecily is motivated by something deep within. I can admire that while not loving the choices that she makes. Abel’s story is deeply tragic as he tries to survive the horror of camp - becoming addicted in the process. Jasmin is too young to comprehend the danger she is in, and I was scared by her childish choices. Jojube tries to be the glue that holds everyone together, and she just becomes angrier and angrier at her helplessness. As these characters’s stories develop, Chan creates suspense. The content is intriguing, and I was very engaged and invested in what was happening to each. Her movement from chapter to chapter allowed her to release the narrative in a way that kept me guessing…and reading. 

I will never understand the cruelty of the world - from the playground to the workplace, within and between nations. I had a hard time shaking off this novel. First I wonder how I was blessed to be born where and when I was. Then I wonder if I’ve ever done enough to stop the cruelty in my corner of the world. Can you pray enough? How do I act? Vanessa Chan doesn’t let anyone off the hook - even in the title - with her novel The Storm We Made. 

the book of two ways - Jodi Picoult

Genre: Contemporary Fiction

Sometimes a book speaks to me - like the book of two ways by Jodi Picoult. I read all of Picoult’s work, and am unsure how I missed this. I’m blaming the pandemic and related issues. I am grateful that Libby offered this when I was looking for an available audiobook. Beautifully narrated by by Patti Murin, Picoult gives us Dawn who has the unique opportunity to revisit her past and consider which of two ways her future might unfold. When her faith in her marriage is shaken by her husband’s actions - Dawn begins to reach back and question all the decisions that brought her to this point. She is married, the parent of a teenage daughter, and working as a death doula. In another life - with one different choice - she is with her first love (first passion?) working as an Egyptologist in a newly discovered tomb. How much do we choose and how much do we just let happen? Using the ancient Egyption tradition of being buried with the book of two ways - offering two paths into the afterlife - Picoult explores this question in multiple ways. 

I don’t love Dawn - she is problematic to me on some levels, but boy she is bold in seeking out what will make her happiest and most fulfilled. I admire that (Am I jealous?). Picoult develops her in detail, warts and all. She does the same with Dawn’s husband, daughter, lover, and client. I felt their pain and confusion, and even when I didn’t agree with or understand their choices, I was prepared to hang on. Character development is one of Picoult’s gifts. Another is complexity, and she provides it in spades. She establishes through the Egyptology Book of Two Ways angle how long humans have dealt with choices and options.  She offers a look at the power of choices made and not made through Dawn’s work as a death doula and her client Win who asks her to help her deal with the repercussions of her choices. And of course, Dawn’s choice to come home and care for her mother instead of completing her work for a PhD. And the book ending choice - Brian or Wyatt. As usual, Picoult presents multiple sides and points of view. Nothing about the plot and conflict here is simple - one of the things I love about a Picoult book. 

On reflection, I’m  not sure exactly why this book spoke to me so profoundly. One is that I am fascinated by the important work of the death doula  - introduced to me in The Collected Regrets of Clover by Mikki Brammer. The job seems so important, and I am so unfamiliar with it. More philosophically, often life feels to me mostly a series of choices and the consequences - good or bad - that follow. I don’t do well with decisions. I take a great deal of time making them and even longer settling in with them. Once I do settle though, I try not to look back. I think that is why I was both uncomfortable but admiring of both Dawn and Win. I found them selfish and yet envied their ability to reflect. I feel like I am in a place where I should be looking back on my life and figuring out what I’ve learned. I have no easy answers here to the thoughts and questions this book provoked - much like the book itself. Perhaps that is why the book resonated with me in a number of ways. I was fascinated by Picoult's treatment of the power of choice and change and consequences the book of two ways. 

Book cover for The Book of Two Ways by Jodi Picoult

James - Percival Everett

Genre - Historical, literary fiction

Sometimes I just don’t feel that I have the chops to write about a certain book. James by Percival Everett may be one of those times. I had to wait a long time to get my copy; much has already been written about it, so I only need to share some of my thoughts, I guess. I have taught Huckleberry Finn at the high school level. Through it I tried to have honest conversations about Jim (the James of this novel) with my students. I would love to introduce them to James. How our discussions would have evolved.

My students complained the most about Twain’s use of dialect. We were well into Huckleberry Finn before they could mostly understand what Jim was saying on their own. So I am fascinated by Everett’s approach to how the slaves used dialect to keep their owners and other whites from recognizing their intellect. I have googled to test the accuracy of this and even as a retired librarian, I have not found the correct search terms yet for exploration. I have some Percival Everett events on my calendar and am hoping that conversation comes up. Either way, I love the exploration of the power of language in any form. The lessons that James has with his children were poignant and uncomfortable. I am sad that parents still have these kinds of lessons - language, behavior if your car is pulled over, hoodies - the list goes on. Different era - same painful dance.

Everett remarkably illustrates the horror of slavery. He shows the separation of families, the brutality of slave owners, the expendability of slaves, the commodification of human lives. He creates this balance, and I’m not sure how, where the blacks in the book are matter of fact about it all, but desperate for freedom and respect at the same time. I don’t mean to suggest that they accept their lot without rancor, they just know what life is likely to bring them. James is trying to move toward freedom the entire time, but when things go awry, he deals with the consequences and works toward a new plan because he must. Percival also shows within the text a slave that seems to accept his lot and cooperate with his white owner - horror at a different level. 

The relationship with Huck is different in this book than in Twain’s text. Such a shift is natural in terms of the corresponding shift in the narrator.  In the classroom we spent a great deal of time talking about Huck’s treatment of Jim in Twain - from the scene on the river where he resolves to go to hell rather than turn in his friend to the ending where he blindly follows Tom’s directives for imprisoning Jim. We all struggled - even if at some level we understand what is going on. I like the James ending much better - though I have little hope of happiness, a little hope remains. The book here is, after all, about James, not Huck. 

James is an important book. James is an excellently written book. While for me, many of my thoughts were about the connectedness of the two, James is a book you should read - even if you haven’t read Huckleberry Finn - it will stand on its own terms. 

Book cover of James by Percival Everett

The Summer Of Yes - Courtney Walsh

Genre - Contemporary Fiction with a dash of Romance

When Kelsey (Kelly? Kasey?) is hit by a car that jumped the curb and wakes up in the hospital, she begins to question her whole life. So begins Courtney Walsh’s very recently published The Summer of Yes. Georgina Tate, a business icon, is her roommate there, and her presence makes Kelsey question her own decisions even more. She wishes to be a writer, but is instead working as a very underappreciated editor. She is losing sight of family and friends in an effort to work harder and climb that career ladder. When it occurs to her that Georgina has experienced the career success that she has longed for, but doesn’t have a single visitor, other than her paid assistant, she questions her own choices even more. Georgina who quite frankly seems mostly annoyed by Kelsey, tells her to say yes more. This advice sends Kelsey on a journey that will ultimately change both of their lives. 

I loved both Kelsey and Georgina here. The audiobook, narrated by Tanya Eby and Cathi Colas, brings Walsh’s character development to life. I’m certainly more the age of Georgina who likes to feel like she has the time to effect great change like Kelsey. I love that when Kelsey commits to the idea of a summer of yes that she does so wholeheartedly. She takes her sick and vacation time and reconnects with friends and does everything in her power to bring Georgina along on her journey. I love her commitment to a goal and her refusal to look back. The quietly developed connection between the two is beautiful to watch. Kelsey commits to helping Georgina - even though Georgina resists fiercely. In spite of disagreement, disappointment, and sadness, their journey is peppered with humor and some laughter. Walsh creates a delightful balance. The supporting cast rounds out the book nicely. Georgina’s assistant and her son (a little bit of romance, anyone?) and Kelsey’s friends and coworkers all support Kelsey’s desire for change for herself and Georgina. Walsh creates a lovely world in this book. 

What a great message Walsh teaches - of course most of us can say “yes” more often than we do. And here’s the thing - Georgina who could well have been facing the end of her life - ALSO learns to say yes more. Folks, Walsh shows us in The Summer of Yes we can always change our lives for the better. I have been thinking quietly since finishing this book about places where I can be more adventurous with my willingness to say yes - a fun and thought provoking read - perfect for the beach or the porch!

Book cover The Summer of Yes by Courtney Walsh

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