Review: TOMES AND TERRIERS by Hilary Avis

5 ++ Cozy Stars

Magic Library Mystery Book 1

I absolutely adore this Cozy! Here's proof: I read an ARC, but quickly pre-ordered because this story is just so good and I can't wait to continue the series! While reading,  I saw an email question "What is your favorite Cozy?" TOMES AND TERRIERS might just be that!

The story [only the first in a new Series!] is suffused with dogs and a magical memory Library and some really wonderful characters,  including our middle-aged protagonist,  her husband, and the dedicated, heartfelt, nurse at the assisted living home. Of course,  not everyone is perfect: there are a couple of grumps, some smartypants, and an eight-year-old con artist. But the combination is heartwarming,  the plot is super-intriguing, and the difficulties are almost insurmountable.  Can't wait for the Sequel!

Review: KILLER CHARDONNAY by Kate Lansing

5 Cozy Stars

Vintner Parker Valentine just wants her new vintage and new wine shop in Boulder,  Colorado,  to open to success. That shouldn't be too much to ask! Yet Grand Opening sees an ugly breakup of a customer couple, dismay of a famous wine critic (there goes the ratings), corked by the sudden unexpected demise of the critic.

This is the Grand Opening that should never have occurred!

Includes recipes and wine-pairing, plus lots of gentle no-fuss education on the art and science of wine-making. 

Review: A CALL FOR KELP by Bree Baker

5 Cozy Stars

Working for saving Bees is a worthwhile environmental cause, but murdering is not an acceptable volunteer option! On tiny barrier island Charm, North Carolina,  excitement and adulation turns to dismay when the star attraction of a Bee documentary is discovered deceased. But intrepid amateur sleuth and tea shop proprietor will find who killed her last link to her beloved late grandmother, or die trying.

Review: MAIN LINE IS MURDER by Donna Huston Murray

5 Stars

First in the Ginger Barnes Cozy Mystery Series,  MAIN LINE IS MURDER is a Philadelphia-setting edgy Cozy. As you read you will discover why I use the term "edgy." Gin Barnes' husband is the newly appointed Head of School at a nearly-failing Main Line private academy,  determined to make the school a success.  Gin does her part by organizing rummage sales (which in this case requires creative thinking) but then discovers a much-disliked staff member,  deceased--in the School.  Before parents withdraw their children en masse,  Gin determines to investigate without letting husband Rip or the police detective realize.

I found this Cozy quite enjoyable [and at times heartwrenching] and anticipate the Series. 

Review: THE LOSS OF A GRANDPARENT TO COVID-19, Gramps

4 Stars 

Be prepared to weep copiously.  A mother and her small son grieve for the beloved grandpa lost to Covid-19, especially  [for the child] because of the quarantine preventing the family's presence.  As they both recall verbally their favorite memories of Gramps, a little peace begins to settle in. 

Review: HOUSE FULL OF LLAMAS by Melissa Winn

4 Stars

This is designed as a bedtime story for young children.  I found it creative, but I think too lengthy for bedtime reads and a little too complex for pre-readers or young (early elementary) readers.