A Carol for Mrs. Dickens by Rebecca Connolly

 

A Carol for Mrs. Dickens is a super cozy take on the classic Christmas vibe, putting Catherine Dickens, Charles Dickens’ wife, front and center instead of old Scrooge. It’s 1851, and Catherine’s feeling wiped out from juggling eight kids (with another on the way), throwing epic holiday parties, and keeping up with her husband’s over-the-top Christmas obsession. A magical sprig of holly sends her on a trip down memory lane, helping her rediscover why she used to love the season. It’s got that warm, Dickensian Christmas glow, but feels fresh with its focus on Catherine’s personal journey.

 The writing pulls you right into Victorian London, think twinkling lights, bustling markets, and all the holiday feels. Catherine’s memory-hopping adventures are vivid and heartfelt, making you root for her to find her spark again. That said, the story drags a bit in spots, and I wished it dug deeper into why Catherine’s so down instead of leaning on the whole “count your blessings” angle. A little more focus on her struggles and a stronger wrap-up would’ve made her journey hit even harder.

Still, this book’s a total holiday gem. It’s warm, touching, and perfect for curling up with on a winter night. It skips the ghosts of A Christmas Carol but keeps the heart, showing how small moments of love and connection can bring back the magic. If you’re picking one Christmas read this season, A Carol for Mrs. Dickens is a solid bet for something sweet and meaningful without being too heavy. 

 You can order a copy here.

 

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

To Die For, A Cookbook of Gravestone Recipes by Rosie Grant, Reviewed

 

As someone who finds joy in wandering through ancient cemeteries like the 7th-century Saint Peter’s Churchyard in Monkwearmouth, England, or the historic Myles Standish Burial Ground in Massachusetts, I’m captivated by the stories etched on headstones. So when I discovered To Die For, A Cookbook of Gravestone Recipes by Rosie Grant, a book that weaves my love for cemeteries with tales of food and family, I couldn’t wait to dive in. Its release on my birthday made it feel like a gift meant just for me. 

Grant, known for her @GhostlyArchive, has thoughtfully collected 40 recipes inscribed on gravestones worldwide, from Spritz Cookies to Guava Cobbler. Each recipe is paired with heartfelt family interviews and stunning photos of the dishes, graves, and cherished keepsakes. These recipes hit close to home, reminding me of my own “Top Secret” potato leek soup I plan to pass to my sons. The stories reveal how dishes like a grandmother’s Chicken Soup or a mother’s French Silk Pie become lasting bonds, connecting families even after loss. 

 

Grant’s careful approach transforms this unique concept into a universal celebration of love, memory, and legacy. Every page is rich with emotion—I found myself laughing one moment and tearing up the next as families shared what these recipes meant to them. The book’s gorgeous design, with vivid photography, makes it a keepsake you’ll treasure. A thoughtful glossary introduced me to the term “taphophile,” describing my passion for the history, art, and culture of cemeteries—a delightful discovery. 

 I was especially charmed by Grant’s inclusion of curated menu sections, pairing gravestone recipes into thoughtful combinations like “Comfort Food Classics,” “Sunday Brunch Spread,” and “Backyard Barbecue Favorites.” These menus inspire readers to bring these dishes to life together, adding a practical and creative touch. 

 Reading To Die For left me eager to try these recipes myself—if they’re special enough to be carved on a gravestone, they’re worth cooking. This book is a must-read for anyone who loves food with a story or cherishes family traditions. It’s a beautiful reminder that food can keep love alive long after someone’s gone. I’m already inspired to honor my own family’s recipes, and I wholeheartedly recommend this gem to food lovers, history buffs, or anyone who values the legacy of family.

 

Rating: 5/5 stars
A treasure for fans of culinary memoirs, family histories, or unique takes on memory and tradition.

Preorder your copy here.

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Last Laugh Club by Kate Galley, Reviewed

 

Kate Galley’s “The Last Laugh Club” is a heartwarming and poignant tale that weaves together themes of friendship, forgiveness, and unexpected adventures. As my second foray into Galley’s work, this novel solidified my commitment to read everything she writes. Her ability to craft authentic, relatable characters and stories that resonate with women “of a certain age” is remarkable, delivering a narrative that feels both grounded and uplifting without ever patronizing the reader.

The story follows Bridget, a reluctant adventurer, who finds herself honoring her late friend Norman’s final wish: to scatter his ashes in the Shetland Islands. Clad in the vibrant, woolly jumper Norman knitted for her, Bridget is joined by two former colleagues, glamorous Gloria and reserved Derek, each sporting their own knitted gifts. The trio, estranged for years, are thrown together in a battered minivan, armed with too much yarn and not enough patience, embarking on a journey that’s as much about reconciling their past as it is about fulfilling Norman’s request.

 Galley excels at creating complex, flawed, and deeply human characters. Bridget’s cautious pragmatism clashes deliciously with Gloria’s bold flair and Derek’s easygoing nature, creating a dynamic that crackles with tension and history. Norman, though absent, looms large as the mischievous mastermind who uses his final act to mend old wounds among his friends. The slow unraveling of their shared past reveals the power of miscommunication and the importance of seizing life’s fleeting moments—a message that hits home without feeling heavy-handed.

 The Shetland Islands setting is a character in itself, vividly brought to life through Galley’s evocative descriptions. As a fan of the “Shetland” TV series, I found it effortless to visualize the windswept landscapes, stormy ferry rides, and cozy knitwear moments, which added a delightful layer of immersion. The backdrop amplifies the story’s emotional weight, with storm clouds mirroring the trio’s initial discord and the island’s rugged beauty reflecting their eventual growth.

 This is a beautifully crafted story that celebrates the messy, enduring power of connection, coupled with the ups and downs of aging. Galley’s storytelling is both tender and unflinching, capturing life’s realities with grace. I eagerly await Galley’s next work and wholeheartedly recommend this novel.

 Preorder your copy here.

 Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Murder on the Marlow Belle, a Review

 

Okay, I’ll admit it—I’m a total Robert Thorogood fangirl. From his “Death in Paradise” days to every single Marlow Murder Club book, I’m hooked on his knack for spinning cozy mysteries that feel like a warm hug and a brainteaser all at once. So, when I cracked open Murder on the Marlow Belle, the fourth book in the Marlow Murder Club series, I was practically buzzing with excitement. Spoiler alert: it did not disappoint! This book is like hopping back into a group chat with your favorite quirky pals—Judith, Suzie, and Becks—who are back to solve a juicy murder on a riverboat. It’s got all the Thorogood magic: twists that keep you guessing, a setting that’s practically a character itself, and a story so fun you’ll forget to check your phone.

This time, our crime-busting trio is diving into a murder aboard the Marlow Belle, where the local amateur theater group’s drama (and secrets) takes center stage. Judith, the feisty, gin-loving granny detective, is as sharp and prickly as ever, and I love how Thorogood lets her shine while showing her softer side with Suzie and Becks. Their chemistry is pure gold—think late-night gossip sessions mixed with sleuthing genius. The riverboat vibe, plus the theater group’s petty squabbles and hidden grudges, makes for a perfect puzzle that had me pointing at every character going, “You’re the killer! No, wait, you are!” Thorogood’s so good at throwing curve balls, and the big reveal? Brilliant!

If you’re into cozy mysteries with heart, humor, and a side of clever, this book is for you. Thorogood’s storytelling is like catching up with old friends over a pint, except someone’s been murdered and you’re loving every minute of figuring out whodunit. I could read his books forever, and this one’s another gem in the Marlow series. Grab it, clear your day, and maybe keep some snacks handy—you’re not putting this down till the last page.

 Preorder your copy here. 

Many thanks to NetGalley, Poison Pen Press, and Robert Thorogood for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Widows' Guide to Skulduggery By Amanda Ashby, Reviewed

 

If you’re craving a cozy mystery packed with charm, wit, and a dash of delightful chaos, The Widows’ Guide to Skullduggery by Amanda Ashby (scheduled for release on June 30^th) just might be what you’re looking for. This was my first foray into Ashby’s work, and I’m thrilled to discover it’s the third book in a series, with two earlier novels ready for me to devour. From the moment a Jack Russell named Colin crashes Grace and Theo’s wedding with a human skull in his jaws, this story hooks you and refuses to let go. (Quick aside: I initially thought Colin was a human character—imagine my confusion picturing a person with a skull in their mouth! A character guide would’ve saved me that mix-up.)

 The premise is irresistibly engaging: the wedding’s disruption reignites a long-standing rivalry between two villages, and our sharp-witted heroine, Ginny, smells sabotage. Joined by her quirky “Murder Club” friends—JM, Tuppence, and Hen—she dives into a mystery woven with family feuds, ancient grudges, and clever twists. When a fresh body surfaces, the stakes soar, and Ginny’s amateur sleuthing shines. The police’s dismissal of the twenty-year-old skull gives the widows free rein, making their investigation both believable and endlessly entertaining.

What makes this book stand out is its vibrant cast and infectious energy. Ginny and her Murder Club are a joy—witty, determined, and wonderfully relatable. I couldn’t stop picking up the book, a sure sign of its gripping pace. The small-town setting, brought to life by a map at the start, immerses you in the drama. My only gripe? The first chapter introduces a flurry of characters, and a character list upfront would’ve helped me keep them straight. (Authors, please make this standard!)

Ashby crafts a well-paced mystery with just the right balance of red herrings and revelations to keep you guessing without feeling lost. The interplay of village rivalries and personal motives is masterfully done, leading to a satisfying resolution that ties up loose ends while leaving you eager for more. For cozy mystery fans, this book delivers humor, heart, and a puzzle that keeps you hooked.

I’m already excited to explore the earlier books in the series and spend more time with Ginny’s Murder Club. If you’re after a cozy mystery that’s equal parts fun and intriguing, The Widows’ Guide to Skullduggery is a fantastic pick. Grab a cup of tea, settle in, and let this delightful tale sweep you away. You can preorder a copy here, or get the Kindle version here.

 My Rating: 4.5/5 – A captivating read with vibrant characters and a small wish for a character guide. Highly recommended!

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The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook by Richard Sargent, Reviewed

The Ultimate Chick Flick Cookbook: Fall in love with over 60 mouthwatering recipes, each inspired by the iconic romantic comedies you adore by Richard Sargent is a delightful fusion of romantic comedies and culinary creativity, offering over 60 meticulously crafted recipes inspired by iconic films like ‘Love Story,” “Legally Blonde,” and “Crazy Rich Asians.”

 

As a passionate “Waitress” fan, I was thrilled to find recipes that completed my collection, reflecting the author’s deep research and love for both cinema and cuisine. From Ah Ma’s Special Dumplings (“Crazy Rich Asians”) to Kalteen Bars (“Mean Girls”), each dish is thoughtfully designed, accessible to novices yet captivating for experienced cooks. Stunning photography, clear instructions, and playful bonus drinking games enhance the experience, making it perfect for a rom-com-themed movie night.

 

 However, the book falters with its opening recipe, Bridget Jones’s “Blue Soup,” which feels unappetizing and sets an awkward tone. More troubling are recipes like “Anal Leakage” (“The Sweetest Thing”) and “Unsanitary Chocolate” (“Bridesmaids”). Though tied to their films, these names are off-putting in a cookbook, detracting from its charm. While the playful spirit is clear, these choices hinder full enjoyment. The absence of a recipe index is another drawback; although a film-to-page listing exists, a comprehensive index would improve navigation. On the positive side, conversion charts and note pages at the back are thoughtful additions.Having tried recipes like the delectable Wind Beneath My Cauliflower Wings (“Beaches”), I can attest to their quality and flavor. The book’s originality and immersive appeal earn it 4 stars. With more appetizing recipe names and an index, it could have been a five-star triumph. For foodies and rom-com enthusiasts, this cookbook remains a charming, if imperfect, celebration of love, laughter, and culinary magic.

 You can pick up a copy here.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, and Other Curiously Named Classic Chinese Dishes: A Review

 

Ever thought a cookbook could be your next graphic novel obsession? Well, brace yourself, because it soon will be, on precisely March 4th when Buddha Jumps Over the Wall, and Other Curiously Named Classic Chinese Dishes is released. This isn't just for those with an interest in Chinese cuisine and culture; if you love cooking or are enchanted by graphic novels, this book is destined to become your new best friend.I've explored countless cookbooks, but this one stands out as a top contender. It's not merely in my top 10; it's the most vibrant, quirky, and engaging cookbook I've ever come across. The idea of a graphic novel cookbook aimed at adults is nothing short of genius. You don't have to plan on cooking to enjoy this; it's a sheer delight to read, much like flipping through a captivating comic book.

The recipes are a feast for both the eyes and the palate. Imagine preparing Mango and Lobster Spring Rolls or perfecting Tea Eggs and Moon Cakes. The dish names alone are a source of amusement, read: "Ignored by Doggy Buns," "Ants Climbing a Tree," "Buddha Jumps Over the Wall," and who wouldn’t love "Old Pockmarked Lady’s Mapo Tofu?”For parents eager to spark culinary interest in their children, this book is a treasure. The illustrations aren't just charming; they're mesmerizing, transforming each page into a visual banquet. It doesn't just inform; it captivates, enriching your knowledge with every page turn. In a word — FABULOUS!

So, don't hesitate. Grab this book. Trust me, you won't regret it. I'm not just saying this in passing; I mean it. Buy it now!

Disclaimer: I received an advanced digital copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

The Cozy Christmas Cookbook, 50 Recipes to Rediscover the Magic of the Season, Reviewed

 

I felt very nostalgic while reading this fun new cookbook, The Cozy Christmas Cookbook, 50 Recipes to Rediscover the Magic of the Season by Taylor Vance, because it reminded me very much of the cookbooks that my mother had when I was a little girl. That’s a good thing because while it made me feel nostalgic, it was still fresh, and modern, and new, with beautiful photography and clever ideas.

I appreciated the fact that there was an engaging photograph for nearly every recipe. I think that’s important for all cooks whether they are just starting out or are seasoned veterans. I also liked that the recipes were clear, concise, and most of all doable for all skill levels. Nothing is too difficult for anyone to make in order to create something unique, festive, and flavorful.

Despite the retro feel, this book is perfect for today’s cook, who may want to incorporate vegetarian or vegan meals into their diet. There are recipes here that fill the bill in both categories, but for those of us who enjoy our meat and cheese, easy substitutions can be made.

The recipes themselves are whimsically presented, with acute embellishments, frames, and illustrations. You can’t help but feel a sense of fun when flipping through. I also appreciated tips, anecdotes, and helpful hints that were festively scattered throughout.

If you are looking for a way to recapture that culinary Christmas joy, this book is for you.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Disclaimer: I received a complementary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

The Christmas Baking Cookbook, Reviewed

 

I don’t recall ever having to mop up drool before, but I certainly did while reading this amazing new book, The Christmas Baking Cookbook: ‘Tis the Season for 100+ Festive Treats from Cider Mill Press. It is absolutely GORGEOUS!

 

Some years I can be a bit of a Scrooge, but paging through this book makes that an impossibility. All I want to do is go into the kitchen and bake; there are 40 recipes for cookies alone! Often times baking books will just regurgitate recipes from the past that, while we all enjoy, we don’t need to see again. That is not the case in this book. I don’t think I have ever seen such a varied assortment of recipes, 90% of them new to me, 100% I want to get into the kitchen and bake.

  

The book is divided into six sections as follows:

Cookies
Cakes
Bread and Breakfast Treats
Pastries
Pies and Tarts
Custards and Other Decadent Confections 

Each section features a wide variety of offerings, one more mouthwatering than the other. There is a corresponding photo for nearly every recipe, and directions that are clear and concise.At the back of the book, there is a comprehensive conversion chart, as well as an index, something I used to expect in every cookbook, but that are, sadly, beginning to disappear. This index is well put together, and at least in my case, will be well used.

 

For the holiday season coming up, this could be your baking Bible. I can’t wait to dig in and get started. This would make a wonderful gift or hostess gift. You can buy a copy here.

Disclaimer: I received a complementary digital copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Murder, She Wrote: A Killer Christmas, Reviewed

I’m dating myself here, but I watched the pilot episode of "Murder, She Wrote" when it first aired on television. I knew from that very moment, despite being unfamiliar with Angela Lansbury, that I was going to love that series, and I did. It is wonderful that it continues on in this series of books that always makes me feel as though I am sitting by a fire, wrapped in a warm blanket, sipping a cup of cocoa or tea. I can easily visualize the characters from those in the series, I can hear their voices, I can smell that salty sea air.

Photo credit: Universal Studios

The latest book in the series, A Killer Christmas (book number 59!), scheduled for release on Tuesday, like the others, captures Jessica and Cabot Cove quite well. Not all of the books in the series take place in Cabot Cove (How could they?), but this one does, and those are my favorites. It also takes place around the holiday season, and that makes it even more enjoyable in my estimation. It centers around copious holiday preparations, where the town is competing with others across the state in the hope of being named the most seasonal in all of Maine, an honor that comes with a cash prize. Meanwhile, Cabot Cove realtor, Eve Simpson, is delighting over the fact that she has finally found a buyer for an old property, long vacated, that is going to mean a hefty commission. The mystery is a good one, the characters are at their absolute best, (I have to admit to loving Eve), the book is as enjoyable as expected, and I can’t wait for more.

 I am so grateful to the variety of authors who have delighted us with this series over the years. Keep them coming. This "Murder, She Wrote" fan can never get enough.

Many thanks to NetGalley, author Terrie Farley Moran, and Dreamscape Media for providing me with an advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Alpenglow, Outdoor Celebrations for Every Occasion by Hillary Munro, reviewed

My experience with outdoor living doesn’t extend much beyond Girl Scout camp, the days of which I can count as among the worst in my life. Where not only did it rain, our tent become infested with daddy long legs, the proffered water taste strongly of iron, but the food that they gave us was borderline poisonous. How different things might have been had a lovely book like this one been available for the Girl Scout leaders to peruse in order to make the experience a lovely one rather than fodder for nightmares. But I digress…

Alpenglow, Outdoor Celebrations for Every Occasion by Hillary Munro is a beautiful book, and not just beautiful, but inspiring. Just paging through, looking at the gorgeous photos made me feel much more relaxed. I no longer have access to the wide open spaces that I used to, but despite that, it really has me thinking about outdoor dining in the coming months, and planning for next spring and summer. Is there anything better than feeling at one with nature at a time when you are nourishing your body? This book shows you how to nourish not only body, but mind and soul as well.

  The word “alpenglow,” for the uninitiated, refers to “… the magic hour when the sky turns shades of pink and orange, not found on a color wheel…” isn’t that lovely?The book is set in the author’s home in the high mountain valley of Jackson, Wyoming, but the gatherings and parties, rituals and recipes, projects and crafts, can take place anywhere.

Both cookbook and lifestyle book, there are some wonderful recipes in here, not only for food, but also for party favors and various crafts as well. The photography by Lisa Flood is beautiful. The recipes and craft instructions are easy to follow, and perfectly doable even for the most inexperienced cook. 

 The book is divided into five sections:

Winter Gatherings

Spring Gatherings

Summer Gatherings

Fall Gatherings

Handcrafted Gifts

 One section more inspiring than the other, each with its own recipes, craft, and unique ideas for gatherings.

It lacks an index, something I find quite vexing. I realize that it’s work putting an index together, because I've done that, but I find an index to be invaluable when returning to a book to search for a particular recipe or craft idea. Failing that, it is a gorgeous and inspiring book with ideas to carry you throughout the year, even during the darkest days of winter when we probably need it the most.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gibbs Smith Publishers in exchange for an honest review.

 As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Baking in the American South by Anne Byrne, Reviewed

 

I’m sure that we all approach cookbooks in a different way. Me? I like to read them like a novel. Because of this, I am always delighted to find a cookbook that can offer me not only recipes, but historical facts, new methods of cooking, local culture, and thoughts and tips from fellow cooks. Baking in the American South by Anne Byrne (Set to be released on September 4th) has all of these things, plus it offers us recipes that are truly fine examples of the wonderful tradition of Southern baking.

 

This book contains 200 recipes from 14 Southern states, and nearly as many mouthwatering photos, that will send you running into the kitchen, whisk in hand. For me, this book was worth it alone for the cornbread recipes. There are biscuits as well, and rolls, cakes, and cookies, all most certain to send you into a carbohydrate coma.

I thoroughly enjoyed learning about the people who created these recipes and their varied cultures. Kudos to Bryne for being able to convert those old recipes when inexact measurements were used. To the dismay of everyone in my family, my grandmother used to say things like “add enough flour until it ‘looks right,’” confounding everyone. Because of this I was grateful for the included and most helpful chart in converting those measurements into modern day ones. This provides the reader with the wonderful opportunity to recreate those much loved, crumbling, food-stained recipes from decades past, allowing them to partake in the delights of their own family’s culinary history.

 

 You don’t have to be a baker to be fascinated by the contents. You will, however, want to explore each chapter in detail (one of which is devoted entirely to cornbread, be still my beating heart):

 Sizzling Cornbread

Hot Biscuits

Quick Loaves, Griddle Cakes, Waffles, and Fritters

Rolls, Breads, and Yeast-Raised Cakes

Comforting Puddings

Pies Plain and Fancy

Bake Me a Cake

Cookies and Bars by the Dozen

Frostings and Flourishes

 

This is really a book that needs to be experienced. Historians, food lovers, family cooks, and professionals, will all find great value here.

Many thanks to NetGalley, Anne Byrne, and Harper Celebrate for providing me with a digital advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.