Give Me a Book: Collection

Friday, May 6, 2022

The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions, by Kerry Greenwod

The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions (Phryne Fisher)

The Lady with the Gun Asks the Questions by Kerry Greenwood

My rating: 4 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

A collection of Phryne Fisher short stories, including 4 new stories.

I don't usually care for historical cozies, but I am slightly obsessed with the Art Deco period/Roaring 20s, so I love Phryne and have read all the books and seen all the TV shows. I hadn't read any of Ms. Greenwood's short stories before, even though all but 4 had been published previously, so it was all new to me and I loved it.

Phryne Fisher is a strong, smart, independent woman, and yet still warm-hearted and caring, surrounded by found family that I adore.

For me, there wasn't a single bad story in this collection.

I NEED even more Phryne, please!

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.*

View all my reviews

Tuesday, May 25, 2021

Carried to the Grave and Other Stories, by Leslie Budewitz

Carried to the Grave and Other Stories (A Food Lovers Village Mystery, #6)

Carried to the Grave and Other Stories by Leslie Budewitz

My rating: 5 of 5 stars, I really liked it.

A collection of shorter stories, with the title story being previously published on the author's website. All are tied to the author's Food Lover's Village series.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Each story was another glimpse into life in Jewel Bay, from the founding of the Mercantile to present day.

The title story actually combines past and present, weaving the two together quite skillfully as Erin uncovers another family's long kept secret. I'd originally read it when the author provided the link in her monthly newsletter ages ago, and enjoyed it again on re-read. This one left me a little sad, both times, and especially sad that the family continued to feel the need to hide the truth in this day and age. (sorry to be so vague, but trying not to give any spoilers!).

I especially enjoyed An Unholy Death, with its glimpse at the founding couple of the Merc. I loved Kate with her big heart and Paddy's obvious love and devotion. I am really hoping we get another story with Kate, Paddy and Grace.

The entire book was a nice, quick read, that I didn't want to end.

*I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book provided by the publisher, via NetGalley.*

View all my reviews

My rating system:

5 Stars: Super rare rating from me. It was amazing! I loved it, got completely lost in the story and will re-read it at least yearly. Give me all the books from this author, now!

4 Stars: Somewhat rare rating. I really liked it. It really worked for me and I will likely read it again. When is the next book out?!

3 Stars: I liked it. It was a good book, with good characters and plot. I may even read it again at some point. The next book immediately goes on my TBR list.

2 Stars: It was ok. I read it, I mostly liked it, but something bothered me enough that I couldn't truly get into it. I will probably check this author out from the library in the future, since even a great author can write a bad book.

1 Star: Ugh. This one is pretty rare, too. I did not like it, it was absolutely forgettable, convoluted or unbelievable. It may even be so bad that I did not finish it! I probably won't read anymore of the series (though I may give the author another chance if they write something new).

*One thing that makes me automatically downrate a book: A love triangle, especially if they aren't cleared up quickly. They make the female look wishy-washy and the men look like idiots for putting up with it.*