Readers will find themselves in the midst of three triplet sisters. They just happen to be witches that run a magical tearoom that offer tea readings Readers will find themselves in the midst of three triplet sisters. They just happen to be witches that run a magical tearoom that offer tea readings in their community. There is just one slight problem for these sisters. Apparently, they have been cursed.
With whimsy and charm, this is an endearing, imperfect, enchanting mystery story of self-discovery in which readers root for the sisters as they search for a way to break the curse.
This is a cozy, heartwarming story for anyone who loves magical realism and stories of sisterly connection and community....more
With red-tipped pages and some illustrations throughout, how can we not be mesmerized by this story? What, I am an adult saying this? I am not a typicWith red-tipped pages and some illustrations throughout, how can we not be mesmerized by this story? What, I am an adult saying this? I am not a typical fantasy novel lover, but I do like to venture in to children’s books every now and then, so why not try this one? Besides, I need a little bit of escapism that can be magical, too. Will this deliver?
In this particular world, there is environmental decline. And, as we read on, we can’t help but feel that there is something too real about this, too. We are in present day, and we have characters that are doing what they can to save lives. On a quest. To say more would be spoilers.
There will be much to appreciate between these pages, with the illustration of creatures, along with the writing that brings them all to life. Along with the humans that are on this quest.
Also, there is always something to appreciate about child heroes in stories like this one. Especially when we find them in and out of mortal danger. Which may seem more like a been-here-before trope. But if we allow our imaginations to let go and be free, this story may just be appealing, to most readers. Even to the kid that lives inside of us, too. ...more
I was actually looking for another book when I was searching the online catalog of my local library. The one I wanted wasn’t available, and instead thI was actually looking for another book when I was searching the online catalog of my local library. The one I wanted wasn’t available, and instead this one came up in my search. I couldn’t resist the cover or the header, “A Magical Bookshop Mystery.� So, I decided to order this one.
Now, having said that, I will be the first to tell anyone that the best thing to do with any series, is to begin by reading the first in the series. So, needless to say, even though it was an easy cozy read, I probably would have benefited more if I had started this series from the beginning. Unfortunately for me, this was the only book in the series that was available at my local library. But I still couldn’t resist trying it out.
I know, that had I had the opportunity to begin the series at the beginning, I would have had a better understanding of the charm and magic of the “Charming Books� bookstore. Especially as it relates to the many characters that inhabit the place. Like its talking crow, Faulkner. Or the beautiful magical birch tree at the center of the store. Or the insightful tuxedo cat, Emerson, and the flying books that open to specific pages to give the proprietor, Violet important messages for the day to help her solve mysteries. And, then there is Grandmother Daisy who is also Mayor of the town, who was the previous proprietor. And then there is Police Chief David Rainwater who at the beginning of the story, is Violet’s fiancé, soon to be husband.
Of course, there are more characters that make up the small village of Cascade Springs outside Western New York.
And, I have to believe their characters were given center stage in the first book to explain how they came to be through backstory. When you come into the 5th book in the series, like me, the backstory isn’t there, but their magic is, and well, I just went with it.
So, besides trying to get a handle on all the various characters, there is the mystery. And, in this case it involves the death of person and a 1st edition copy of the book “Walden� by Henry David Thoreau. Oh yes, some people do die, even in a cute, cozy mystery.
Now, Violet, our main protagonist, happens to find herself in the middle of a crime scene by being present when the body is discovered. She also tries to figure out who did it, and she is also in a scene trying to get away from a probable killer. Yes, she managed to get herself in all three of these circumstances throughout the story! It is a good thing she is marrying/married to the Police Chief!
Still, despite the predictability of Violet’s role, and the over-cuteness of the magical creatures that reside in the bookstore, it was a delightful easy read, while I was waiting for my PET CT. And, most likely will be the same for any reader who is looking to enjoy a sweet winter read that has likable characters, heart-warming moments, and a well-paced plot that will keep readers engaged....more
“Words and good intentions, yes. Many challenges can be solved that way.�
This exquisitely illustrated and written book by the author is filled with po“Words and good intentions, yes. Many challenges can be solved that way.�
This exquisitely illustrated and written book by the author is filled with positivity. It also proves to be a wonderful teacher to children about kindness and bringing goodness in to the world by the actions we take and the words we use.
Readers will have the opportunity to follow this fairy tale through the adventures of Mur, a kitty-knight who dreams of “protecting others, making the world better, and being a symbol of kindness and bravery.�
And, not only will the adventure be fun, it will also provide good learning lessons for kids, along the way. The illustrations by the author are stunning, and certainly showcase his amazing artistry, which will no doubt captivate the adults who read along with the kids.
I want to thank the author for this complimentary book for our Little Free Library Shed. I am providing an honest review.
I love when an author has a purposeful name for their book, and we as readers get to spend some time with it trying “Where you are is where I belong.�
I love when an author has a purposeful name for their book, and we as readers get to spend some time with it trying to figure out what and why it was named the way it was, like this one.
With this book, could it be because Rafe and Jeremy as friends 15 years ago, got lost in the forest, and thus, as the lost boys, something changed because they were gone?
Or, could it have been when they were found, Rafe came back with no memory of what had happened to him, and thus he lost his story?
And, how will those two points even make sense to readers without continuing to turn pages?
Or, when Emilie came to Jeremy to find her sister, since now that is what Jeremy does, find lost girls, that perhaps they might have lost their stories, too?
Or, will Emilie’s entrance into the story be a catalyst to unraveling the mystery to Rafe and Jeremy, and possibly more?
Or, is there something about the forest of Red Crow that makes one wonder that maybe that is where stories end up? Lost?
Or, is there another mystery within this story that is bigger than we ever thought possible?
Well, I’d like to believe that with this little enriching, fairy tale of magic and mystery and love and (possibly) lost stories, it will capture readers in a way that makes those reading want to turn pages until answers are found.
And, because this is a story of unusually talented boys, now grown up, readers will undoubtedly want to know more about the main characters, Rafe and Jeremy’s back stories. And, will most likely be curious about the sisters, who are (possibly) lost and maybe�? (To say more would be a spoiler, and that is not my thing.)
I believe this is a story that is beautifully, and artfully told. With prose that guides readers through a unique magical realm that makes it hard to put this book down. And, that is what makes Shaffer such an exquisite storyteller.
The question remains, can we hope for a HEA ending? (Again, if you are looking for spoilers, you have come to the wrong place! ☺️) Just, take your chance on a little adult fairy tale.
Lastly...There may be some triggers within this story that are not always seen but may be alluded to (while some are obvious): domestic and family violence, adoption, depression, mental illness, death of parents, implied gay character....more
In all probability, it is very likely we know the rhyme. Most children probably have made that wish every night to the stars� (At least, I know I did In all probability, it is very likely we know the rhyme. Most children probably have made that wish every night to the stars� (At least, I know I did as a kid. To be honest, I still do! ☺️)
“Star light, star bright First star I see tonight I wish I may I wish I might Have the wish I wish tonight.�
But what makes this book so beautiful, is the gorgeous illustrations by Alexandra Day and the lovely positive message that goes along with it.
Each child and parent will have an opportunity to enjoy the star gazing colorful beauty of this book for each bedtime reading.
So, is this the year or two or three that everyone is writing books about bookshops? Or am I just naturally gravitating to them? And, how can we not bSo, is this the year or two or three that everyone is writing books about bookshops? Or am I just naturally gravitating to them? And, how can we not be attracted to this book cover? Also, for those of you who are not reading the print copy, the girl on the cover that is walking her dog…she and her dog is at the end of every single chapter. I love that!
Now, the question is, does the ambiance of the cover, match the story?
This is a Korean bestseller translated. It follows independent bookstore owner Yeongju and the people who are drawn to her shop in Seoul.
Yeongju who once worked corporate, opted to leave her burned out life to follow her dream of opening a bookshop in hopes that this would heal her life and draw in other lonely people who need comfort and refuge from the fast-paced world.
How will Yeongju be able to face her personal challenges? What will it take for her to find self-acceptance?
How best to describe this reading experience?
It is like a cup of hot cocoa in front of the fireplace. It is lighthearted with a touch of whimsy and warmth. As an example, characters engage in friendly witty conversations during their book club meetings. Can I attend, too?
There is a sympathetic, yet objective narrative voice that is easy to follow that feels non-judgmental and compassionate as readers witness characters� actions, choices and thoughts. So, as readers it is almost like we are an observer hopeful for all the different characters that walk through the doors of the bookshop. Including us feeling hopeful for Yeongju.
ܳ…it will be a slow paced-read…comforting, and yet, heart-warming. The question is, can you be a patient reader?...more
“The best place to enjoy a stormy night is in a warm room with a book in your lap.�
Cassie’s life has been confined to working in the bookstore and the“The best place to enjoy a stormy night is in a warm room with a book in your lap.�
Cassie’s life has been confined to working in the bookstore and then going home to her apartment and maybe sometimes seeing her roommate, Izzy. Or has it?
And then, Mr. Webber dies at her bookstore and leaves her two books, The Count of Monte Cristo, and an unusual magical book, The Book of Doors.
What does this book have in store for her and Izzy? What will this book open for Cassie? And what will she discover about herself and her past? And possibly her future?
Also, what dangers does this book bring into her life?
Although this appears to be a fantasy tale adventure about magical books, the story does much more.
With quirky characters and magic and whimsy, and time travel (not always my favorite time bending genre), the story, moves along, sometimes bumpily.
But it is one that addresses loss and grief and the cyclical nature of trauma.
It also is about families, those that are made and those that are found. And that usually is the best part of a story. ...more
Sometimes families can mean well and expect you to follow along iMy #2 Favorite Romance Novel for 2024
“I refuse to live in a world without you in it.�
Sometimes families can mean well and expect you to follow along in their rich footsteps � the successful family funeral business.
But then there are those, like Ricki who have their own creative, talented spirit that needs to follow their own destiny, despite what the family expects of them.
“She was all hope and light and captivating artistic vulnerability, as luminous and colorful as sunlight refracted through a stained-glass window.�
Would Della who walks in the door seeking support for her recently departed husband at Ricki’s family funeral business, be the right angel that sees what her own family can’t in her?
“She just remembered knowing, with certainty, that she’d randomly met her real-life fairy godmother and that she’d felt as dazed and dazzled as if she’d been touched by a magic wand.�
Off Ricki goes to Harlem, New York to set her destiny in motion.
Starting her own business and living in the basement building owned by Della who lives in the top 3 stories of the same building, what new life is in store for Ricki?
Especially when she runs into the tall, dark, rude and secretive Ezra.
And speaking of secrets�
What is that secret that is holding Ezra back?
Will Ricki be what Ezra needs to ultimately save him from himself � or is he an ultimate danger to her?
This magical, sexy, rich racial consciousness undertone poetic story had me going from page one. I was mesmerized by Ricki’s desire for independence just as much as I was curious by Ezra’s mysteriousness.
Still there were so many questions that passed through me as I flew through the pages�
Would Ricki succeed without her family? What was the pull and tug between Ricki and Ezra? Would they overcome whatever it was that presented such tension between them? Could they ever have a chance as a couple? Will these two be able to find what they needed for a truly happy life? And, will it include each other?
And then there was Della � what key did she hold?
This unique page-turner with some magical elements was captivating and emotionally charged throughout. It kept me extremely engaged wanting more.
With an endearing (and sometimes quirky fascinating) supporting cast of characters, this story stayed with me up to the last page.
One last thought…this truly is an epic love story on so many levels. Maybe, one of the best ones I have read this year! Could this possibly be my favorite of 2024?...more
Next to our local high school there is a walking dirt path that we like to take the dogs. It includes two rows of trees that appear to embrace each otNext to our local high school there is a walking dirt path that we like to take the dogs. It includes two rows of trees that appear to embrace each other and create this beautiful tree canopy. It is almost like once the trees grew to mature size adjacent to each other they conjoined and formed this amazing long covered walkway from one end to another (.30 miles). We sometimes imagine that the trees are looking out for every level of life that passes through or chooses to live amongst them.
That truly is one of our favorite walks � to be amongst those trees. We feel so protected � and loved. And if a branch falls from a harsh windstorm or rainfall, we feel sad that the tree has lost one of its limbs. Because we know, once a branch falls, it will not grow back.
There is something to be said about the beauty, and loss and power of trees.
So, when I learned of another book by this author, where the star of the story was a talking tree named Red, I had to read it.
The beauty of stories like this, is the moment you open the book, it is so engrossing, it is unputdownable. And before you know it, it is done.
Even if it appears to be a normal size novel (hardbound 211 pages), with its larger size font and illustrations, it moves along quickly for readers.
Having just finished a talking dog story, how could I not fall in love with a talking tree story. I’m finding myself open to about anything now. Especially if the author has imagination.
After all, I am a fan of magical realism.
Still, this is a kid’s story, so anything is possible in the realm of children’s books. Right?
This is a strong message book. Handled with sensitivity and humor.
This is a story about trees, the protection of, and importance and appreciation of trees.
It is also a story about diversity and differences and friendship.
There will be lots of learning moments too about trees and animals.
There will be moments where friends will disagree, and even through disagreement, people can find ways to like each other.
And, there will be teaching moments of how diversity within the community can bring people together and eventually work through those differences.
Red’s message�
“I’m not just a tree. I’m a home. A community.�
May we always value trees recognizing Red’s message....more
This is a beautifully and artfully illustrated book by the author of the short story, “The Arrival.� The same story that was made into a movie in 2016This is a beautifully and artfully illustrated book by the author of the short story, “The Arrival.� The same story that was made into a movie in 2016 and starring Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, and Forest Whitaker.
But this isn’t about that short story. Although the cover of the book, gives you the same “out-there� feelings. As if someone is walking around in a space age suit, when it really is just a deep sea diver walking on dry land in your neighborhood. Still, even that may be odd trying to look rather normal.
Keeping that picture of the deep sea diver in mind as an example of just one story, this is a collection of short stories set in the Australian suburbs, about how the most outlandish things can appear normal or commonplace.
But this is more than a collection of stories.
The author’s greatest asset is his artwork. His images remind us of Japanese woodcut prints or Renaissance frescoes or sepia photographs. Whatever the vision being presented, they are stunningly beautiful.
One story has children following a map to the end of the world. Literally. They sit with their feet hanging over the edge. Who does that in storytelling? What an extraordinary image. The author allows our own imagination to take us beyond the words and visual image as the reader. Is the world really flat? Or did we just read a charming collection of imaginative art?...more
“If horrible things were possible, why not magical ones?�
This story was more complicated I think than it needed to be. A story probably meant to teach“If horrible things were possible, why not magical ones?�
This story was more complicated I think than it needed to be. A story probably meant to teach children to love and appreciate those that are different than us and to care about the environment, because it is fragile and needs to be protected.
Of course there are learning lessons here, especially when it comes to imagination. There was a moment when a villager was ready to criticize one of the characters for his creative puzzlers and said�
“What on earth is wrong with that boy?�
The father of the boy retorts�
“What on earth is wrong with your imagination?�
This book, an endearing fable, shines the light on empathy. Cherishing living things, no matter how small or insignificant or un-pretty they may be are worthy of care and dignity. But it also asks us to allow our imagination to recognize what the future holds for us in our beautiful, complex world if we don’t consider the actions we are taking now.
I first read my ŷ friend, Rosh’s review who led me to this book. I think you will like her review which you can find here: /review/show...
Reading Level: Grades 3rd � 7th � and beyond. ...more
This book was the last one I received from my local library written by the recently passed author and drawn by the immensely talented book illustratorThis book was the last one I received from my local library written by the recently passed author and drawn by the immensely talented book illustrator, Boris Kulikov.
This story is about a boy on the hunt for an elephant. And all the different ways in which to find one. Of course, this may not be such an easy task to take on, and several tools and support may be needed, especially when navigating the jungle. But this book will provide many good tips on how to hunt for an elephant.
And who knows, maybe, just maybe, if one is patient enough, an elephant may just find you.
This book was recommended to me by my ŷ friend, Helen. Her review is here: /review/show...
What will it take to mail This book was recommended to me by my ŷ friend, Helen. Her review is here: /review/show...
What will it take to mail an elephant to her great aunt?
Sadie is very determined to figure this out, and goes to several resources to help her in this task.
After all, her great aunt “lives almost completely alone� and “could really use the company.�
With single-mindedness and bravado, this little girl will do whatever is creatively possible to accomplish this task.
What readers will enjoy as they turn the pages, is wondering how and if she will be successful?
This is a cute, quirky, enjoyable and sweetly mischievous tale. It is delightfully illustrated and evokes feelings of love, determination and devotion for animals and humans alike.
When this became a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, recently, I felt it was time to re-viCatching up�
I read this when this first came out.
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When this became a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, recently, I felt it was time to re-visit it. I am now bringing my review to ŷ.
This is the author’s debut novel.
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What is compelling about it, is that she is asking readers to imagine a world where “lost things� are really people, not things.
There is a message here through a question�
Can we, with great care and assistance, find our place?
In dual narrative form, the story spans 40 years.
In modern day, we find Anthony, an aging writer who collects lost things and is mourning his long-deceased fiancé.
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We are also introduced to Laura, Anthony’s all-around person who served as secretary and then housekeeper for him. She is recovering from an unpleasant divorce.
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The 1970’s storyline, we follow Eunice, a secretary who has romantic notions for her boss, publisher, Bomber who doesn’t return her feelings.
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They also have a great friendship and working relationship.
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What happens when Anthony chooses to bequeath his estate to Laura, with the directive that she carry on his mission of collecting discarded objects and finding their original owners?
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Readers get a journey with Laura.
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We wonder, will she find a place of self-discovery, through her grief and failed marriage?
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The journey could be considered cathartic, it sometimes is hard to get through Laura’s lack of self-esteem, and the pages devoted to descriptions of the items she must dutifully reunite with their owners.
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What of the haunting? (No spoilers from me.)
Is that really what it takes to provide forward momentum to the story?
Of course�
We mustn’t forget Eunice and Bomber. How do these stories, timelines connect, if at all?
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There is a troublesome message with how the women of Laura and Eunice are portrayed.
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Their happiness or sorrow is tied to men. This lack of self-regard can be a bit frustrating for those of us who are self-directed.
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This story is optimistic, sometimes charming and definitely escapist reading. Readers looking for a sweet diversion may enjoy this one.
After I posted my review, “Rabbit Cake� by this author, you my GR friends said to me�
You must read this book.
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I ordered it from my local library anAfter I posted my review, “Rabbit Cake� by this author, you my GR friends said to me�
You must read this book.
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I ordered it from my local library and did exactly that. Read it.
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In its uniqueness, I found myself wowed by the author’s chosen narrators. An unlikely, but creatively interesting group of ghosts who inhabit the Everton Maple Street Cemetery.
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Can we not be impressed with this magical element of ghosts providing a play-by-play perspective of what is happening to its current town characters?...
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A point of view from such interesting “past� residents?
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As readers, we were guided through some of the comings and goings of the living neighbors who struggled with addiction, were near dying themselves, and some just trying to find their niche in life.
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Speaking of addiction. The author handled the opioid crisis with delicacy, hope and tenderness.
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Is truly a story about family and caretaking, and the crises of small rural towns.
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Felt raw and credible, even amongst the magical elements included in the story.
The author created an atmosphere where relationships and priorities evolved�
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At the same time, enhanced the experience for readers as we watched the characters navigate their view of life and death�
As well as�
Gain an appreciation for what really matters in the end.
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Has humor. Heartbreak. Laugh-out-loud moments.
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A tremendous love and respect for animals.
Compelling. Captivating. Uniquely original.
The author shares in her “Author’s Notes on her research� the following�
“I hope I’ve done right�, and I hope I’ve rendered the characters as complete and complicated people. This book is about rooting for everyone, and about loving a place. And I hope it’s clear that I deeply love the place.�
Yes, Ms. Hartnett, it is very clear. Thank you.
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Speaking of the “Author’s notes…� I recommend you read them, too.
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