Book Review: Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection by Catherine Holt

Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection by Catherine Holt is the second book in the Midnight Reynolds series. I do recommend reading the series in order, as it will help explain some of the connections and background. Although I do think a determined reader could catch on. 

Twelve-year-old Midnight Reynolds has a huge secret—she’s a spectral protector, someone who helps ghosts cross over into the afterlife. Alongside her best friend Tabitha, Midnight is busy juggling the wilds of middle school with her undercover ghost-hunting job. When mysterious and dangerous robberies start happening in their small town, all signs point to some sort of spectral manipulation, and Midnight’s boss asks her to take over the investigation. Can Midnight find the culprit and stop them before the spectral energy endangers their town?

Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection is a mystery and coming of age story that works well as part of a series. Midnight is still trying to find her balance, working to solve the mysteries of the spectral enhanced robberies while her mother plans a wedding, her sister dates a new guy, and her own social life continues to become more complicated. I like how the social and personal growth for Midnight and her family is just as important as the mystery of who is staging the robberies. Nothing is in story as filler, it is all important to the growth of the characters and the forward movement of the story. While I do not know any kids running around dealing with spectral energy, but I do know many that are (or have) gone through the struggles of balancing different parts of their lives and wanting to be perfect in every separate moment. I really enjoyed the ride, and while I had my suspicions with the mystery, I loved the way it played out and how the characters dealt with all of the challenges they faced. 

Midnight Reynolds and the Agency of Spectral Protection  is a wonderful follow up to the first book in this series. I cannot wait to see what Midnight and crew get involved in next. 

Shrubs: Discover the Perfect Plant for Every Place in Your Garden by Andy McIndoe

Shrubs: Discover the Perfect Plant for Every Place in Your Garden by Andy McIndoe is currently scheduled for release on February 5 2019. This book gives home gardeners the information and advice to help them pick the right shrub for their yard. Shrubs can be the perfect plant; typically low-maintenance, with a variety for nearly every need, and widely available at garden centers and nurseries. This handy guide might make it easier than ever for gardeners to decide which shrubs to add to their space. The book includes shrubs challenging growing conditions, shrubs for restricted planting spaces, and shrubs chosen for their desirable characteristics, including hardiness in shade, difficult soil, and harsh conditions. Plant profiles include complete growing information, color photographs, and recommended companion plants.

Shrubs is a book I should have read years ago. I have areas of my property where I have had a terrible time keeping things thriving or even alive. Thanks to this resource I have a plan to revitalize the border near the street, and the shady area near my magnolia tree. The book is divided by the deciding factors of the area readers are looking to plant in. Each area type, such as shady and damp or drought prone, has description of each recommended shrub and some companion plants that readers might want to consider. The photographs and descriptions were very helpful, as were the details about potential size and hints to give your shrubs the best chance to thrive. I am still undecided as to what I want to plant in my trouble spots, but I have plenty of viable options now.

Shrubs is a well organized and valuable resource for gardeners and homeowners looking to use shrubs in their landscaping. I would recommend libraries and those that work in landscaping or garden related jobs pick it up, but the rest of us should borrow it from our local library as needed.

Early Book Review: The Sea Book by Charlotte Milner

The Sea Book by Charlotte Milner is a nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on February 5 2019. This book explores a wealth of incredible marine animals and their habitats, from up on the ice, down to colorful coral reefs, underwater forests, and right down to the deepest darkest depths where the weird and wonderful lurk. Milner highlights to children important ecological issues faced by our planet, this time with a focus on marine life and the damaging effects humans are having on our seas. Children will discover what they can do to help, and there are tips on how to live plastic-free. Children will even get to craft their own recycled shopping bag.

The Sea Book is an informative book. I like that it offers information on the levels of the ocean, and the differences between the depths as well as the creatures that live there. Understanding the creatures in a habitat is an important first step. I liked that there was a wide variety of information, creatures from different parts of the ocean and shore, as well as the different classifications of animals. I learned a few things, and had information I was already aware of reinforced. I liked the artwork and spacing of the information, it made each page eye catching and accessible to a wide variety of readers. I found the ideas for readers to make changes to help the ocean to be perfect for the target audience. The changes, like using less plastic and making sure the seafood we are eating is sustainable, are important but easy enough for even busy families to do. I also like that there is a craft involved, to help readers feel more empowered and able to make a change. 

The Sea Book is a solid nonfiction book that can lay the groundwork for budding marine biologists and environmentalists. It is accessible, interesting, and engaging. 

Book Review: In the Mood Fur Love by Eve Langlais, Milly Taiden, Kate Baxter

In the Mood Fur Love is a collection of three romances by Eve Langlais, Milly Taiden, and Kate Baxter. Bearing His Touch by Eve Langlais follows Becka who manages to escape her kidnapper and finds herself asking help of the man with the nice brown eyes. Stavros can’t say no, not when he knows Becka is his mate, but he does have one dilemma when it comes to claiming her. He'll have to find a way for her to bear his touch. Fake Mated to the Wolf by Milly Taiden is a story about a desperate woman trying to save her family, as a wolf is desperately looking to convince her to give him a chance. Looking for a mate to bring to a party? Wedding? Holiday gathering? Mates Fur Hire is right for you? But what happens when your fake mate ends up being your real one, from New York Times bestselling author Milly Taiden! The Witch, The Werewolf and The Waitress by Kate Baxter follows and witch and a wolf. For centuries, Lowman, Idaho has been Ellie Curtis's prison. A vengeful witch cursed her with immortality and locked her within the confines of Lowman's borders, sealing Ellie off from most of civilization for eternity. She's learned to make the most of it. But when she meets a cocky werewolf who's part of the elite supernatural law enforcement group, all bets are off. Colin instantly knew that Ellie was his mate, but when he discovers her secret, he's determined to help set her free. But in doing so, he might just lose the one thing he knows he can't live without. 

Often one story sticks out as better or less of my taste than the others in collections like this, but this felt pretty even. In Bearing His Touch I really enjoyed the characters and how the world and character building was paced through the story so that I never felt inundated or missing something important. I like that it had a good blend of danger, humor, and sweetness. I really liked Becka and her blend of vulnerability and strength, and how smart and determined Stavros is. A good story all around, and I will be looking for more from the author.

Fake Mated to the Wolf was also an entertaining read. I thought the depth of Shawna's love for her family and the trouble she found herself in could have used a little more building, but I understood the space constraints and how hard it is to get everything in a short story. I liked the determination of all the players, and how everything was resolved. There were some unanswered questions for me, some oddities that happened in the story that could have been part of the larger plot but just rather became brushed away, but I still enjoyed the read. Unfortunately the dating app or website thing has been done before. I have read some great series that use this, and have for quite awhile, so while a small part of the story here, and well done, this just did not feel fresh to me.

The Witch, The Werewolf and The Waitress is another fun and flirty story. I liked the balance of Colin and Ellie trying to solve their separate issues, while trying to figure out the mate situation. I liked Ellie's personality and her combination of sweet and strong. I thought Colin was a little weaker of a character, but still very well fleshed out. The combination of werewolf and witch's curse was cool, and I like how everyone seemed to handle the revelation of additional paranormal issues. I think I might have read something from this author before, or something similar. There were moments that seemed familiar in writing style and world building, but not in a bad way. Rather like I might have read something in a related series and I was reminded of those characters.

In the Mood Fur Love is a thoroughly enjoyable read with a touch of sweet, a touch of heat, and a whole lot of fur. I think this is a great collection to meet three authors I do not remember having read before, but hope to read again. 

Book Review: Mina Vs the Monsoon by Rukhsanna Guidroz, Debasmita Dasgupta

Mina Vs the Monsoon is a picturebook written by Rukhsanna Guidroz , and illustrated by Debasmita Dasgupta. Mina loves to play soccer all year round. Nothing comes close to it. But when the monsoon arrives, Mina is stuck indoors and she can’t help feeling restless and bored. Her ammi doesn’t understand. The doodhwalla doesn’t understand. Soccer-mad Mina tries just about any trick to stop the monsoon clouds from raining on her game. In doing so, she shows us glimpses of her life in a village in eastern India, highlighting the important role played by monsoon rains in this part of the world. The heart of the story, however, is the bond forged between a mother and her daughter on a gray, gloomy day. Soccer will never be the same again for Mina!

Mina Vs the Monsoon is a lovely book that works on a couple of levels. Every child has been unable to do something they want because of the weather. Be it monsoons, hurricanes, blizzards, scorching heat or arctic blasts. This is something we can all relate to and sympathize with Mina as she tries everything she can think of to play. I think the mom reacts like many moms, starting with explaining why, to redirecting, and commiserating. I loved seeing the pair connect, and really found the story lovely. 

I also liked that I got to learn more about a part of the world, language, and culture I do not know nearly enough about. I know I want to take more time to explore the cultures around the world, but getting little glimpses like this inspires me to be more expansive and intensive with that goal. I love learning about places I have never seen, cultures, and folklore that is new to me. I need to infuse even more diverse books into my to be read pile, and get going on them. Hopefully, reading books like this will inspire others to do the same.

Book Review: The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo (Victorian Rebels) by Kerrigan Byrne

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is the sixth book in the Victorian Rebels series by Kerrigan Byrne.  I have read three of the previous books, and recognized some of the secondary characters because of it, but think those fresh to the series will be able to fully enjoy this installment without having read the previous books. 

He is known only as The Rook. A man with no name, no past, no memories. He awakens in a mass grave, a magnificent dragon tattoo on his muscled forearm the sole clue to his mysterious origins. His only hope for survival—and salvation—lies in the deep, fiery eyes of the beautiful stranger who finds him. Who nurses him back to health. And who calms the restless demons in his soul. Lorelai will never forget the night she rescued the broken dark angel in the woods, a devilishly handsome man who haunts her dreams to this day. Crippled as a child, she devoted herself to healing the poor tortured man. And when he left, he took a piece of her heart with him. Now, after all these years, The Rook has returned. Like a phantom, he sweeps back into her life and avenges those who wronged her. But can she trust a man who’s been branded a rebel, a thief, and a killer? And can she trust herself to resist him when he takes her in his arms?

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is a historical romance about redemption and second chances. I liked Lorelai, and how she is both optimistic and smart about her own survival. She faces the ugly things in her world and finds a way to do as much good as she can and survive at the same time. The Rook, Ash, or whatever you want to call our leading man has been through hell. He was imprisoned, beaten and left for dead, and more. He should be a sympathetic character, and sometimes I really do fear for him and empathize with the positions he finds himself in. However, more often than not he rubs me the wrong way and I just find him creepy. As awesome as Lorelai is, and how much love and caring she has, it is not her job to fix him (or anyone). Nothing about his obsession with her, and his envisioning her as so perfect and pure, seems romantic to me. It feels like it will lead to a different kind of captivity and abuse rather than the partnership real love and relationships should have. Others might not have such a strong reaction to this, but it hit me hard and left me almost rooting for those that wanted to keep the pair apart, although for different reasons. I think the action, danger, and secondary characters were all very well done, and while I guessed at the treasure very early in the book, I thought the reveal was satisfying. 

The Duke with the Dragon Tattoo is a book that left me conflicted. I enjoyed some of it, but found our 'hero' to be more than a little problematic and a bit creepy to be honest. I remember liking the previous books more, so I will be willing to give the author another go. 

Book Review: The Girl with the Dragon Heart (Tales from the Chocolate Heart) by Stephanie Burgis

The Girl with the Dragon Heart is the second book in the Tales from the Chocolate Heart series by Stephanie Burgis. I highly recommend reading this series in order, to help fully understand the characters and their relationships. 

Silke has always been good at spinning the truth and storytelling. So good that, just years after arriving in the kingdom as a penniless orphan, she has found her way to working for the most splendid chocolate makers in the city as a master promoter. Although Silke loves her work at the Chocolate Heart, she's certain it's not going to last, and what Silke wants more than anything is somewhere to call home--somewhere safe. But when your best friend is a dragon-turned-hot-tempered-girl, trouble is always right around the corner. Then Silke gets the opportunity she's been waiting for: the Crown Princess personally asks her to spy on the Elfenwald royal family during their first visit to the kingdom. In return, Silke will have the home she's always wanted in the secure palace. But Silke has her own dark, secret reasons for not trusting fairies, and her mission isn't as simple as she hoped. Soon, she discovers that her city is in danger--and that maybe it's more her home than she ever realized. Can Silke find out the truth about the fairies while keeping her own secrets hidden?

The Girl with the Dragon Heart is a delightful follow up to The Dragon With av Chocolate Heart. I was so glad to see more of Silke, and understand her character more. Particularly since she was my favorite character from the first book. Silke is quick thinking and wonderful at telling stories and talking her way out of trouble. The only troubles she cannot escape is her strained relationship with her brother, her own worries, and the crown princess's demands. I empathized with her, and winced along side her as she struggled to find her path and to let go and trust those that care for her. I found her past, and the conflict with the Elfenwald royalty to be very well woven together.I liked seeing the red cap make an appearance, and think we might see more of him and perhaps some of the dragon family in future books (please!). I understood her desire to keep her secrets, to be strong at the same time craving the feel of home and safety. I think that is something just about everyone, regardless of age, can relate to that. I really enjoyed the continued character and world building, and found the continuity to be very well done, even with the switch of focus from Adventurine to Silke. I read this book in a single day, and was disappointed every time I had to put the book down. I simply love the characters and how the core group accepts each other as they are, with all their faults and quirks, and loves each other as a chosen family. I think there are way too many people that lack a group like this, and wish everyone (including myself) had this above and beyond blood family. 

The Girl with the Dragon Heart is a wonderful sequel. I think this is a great example of engaging middle grade fantasy and I cannot wait to read more. 

Early Book Review: Courting Darkness (His Fair Assassin) by Robin LaFever

Courting Darkness is the first book in a duology to follow up the His Fair Assassin series by Robin LaFever. It is currently scheduled for release on February 5 2019. I do recommend reading the initial trilogy before jumping in here, because understanding the characters and politics of the world will help readers understand and enjoy the story. Besides, assassin nuns- why wouldn't you want to read it all? 

When Sybella discovers there is another trained assassin from St. Mortain’s convent deep undercover in the French court, she must use every skill in her arsenal to navigate the deadly royal politics and find her sister in arms before her time—and that of the newly crowned queen—runs out. Sybella accompanies the Duchess to France, she expects trouble, but she isn’t expecting a deadly trap. Surrounded by enemies both known and unknown, Sybella searches for the undercover assassins from the convent of St. Mortain who were placed in the French court years ago. One of those assassins is Genevieve, who has been undercover for so many years, she no longer knows who she is or what she’s supposed to be fighting for. When she discovers a hidden prisoner who may be of importance, she takes matters into her own hands. As these two worlds collide, the fate of the Duchess, Brittany, and everything Sybella and Genevieve have come to love hangs in the balance.

Courting Darkness is a book about being yourself, finding your place, and dealing with intrigue and politics. Genevieve and Sybella have their own battles to fight, and some are more obvious and easier to face than others. Fan of the series will enjoy the continuation of the story, and how Sybella and Beast continue to grow and face the troubles that surround them. I found the character and world building to be very well paced and written. I thought the introduction of Genevieve and her story with the alternating narration between the two added some depth and complexity to the story. There is a lot going on; travel, plotting, and personal growth for all the major players. I look forward to seeing where this all is going and how it all comes together in the end. I really was not ready to put the book aside when I finished it, I desperately want to know what happens next. My only disappointment with the book is my personal desire not to let go of the characters and their story. I want it to continue and to know what dangers they will face next, and how they will find their way through ad hopefully find happiness.

Courting Darkness is another highly engaging read from LaFever. While it took me a bit to get lost into this world again, when I finished the book my only complaint was that the next book is not scheduled for release until 2019. I am impatient.

Early Book Review: Gardening with Emma; Grow and Have Fun A Kid to Kid Guide by Emma Biggs, Steven Biggs

Gardening with Emma; Grow and Have Fun A Kid to Kid Guide is a non fiction guide written by thirteen year old by Emma Biggs, with some help from her father Steven Biggs. It is currently scheduled for release on February 5 2019. This book offers instruction and insight into growing healthy food and raising the coolest, most awesome plants, while making sure there’s plenty of fun. With plants that tickle and make noise, tips for how to grow a flower stand garden, and suggestions for veggies from tiny to colossal, Emma offers a range of original, practical, and entertaining advice and inspiration. She provides lots of useful know-how about soil, sowing, and caring for a garden throughout the seasons, along with ways to make play spaces among the plants. Lively photography and Emma’s own writing (with some help from her gardening dad, Steve) capture the authentic creativity of a kid who loves to be outdoors, digging in the dirt.

Gardening with Emma is a well organized, helpful, and engaging guide to gardening. I think children and their parents could benefit from the read. I like that Emma lays out why adults and children garden differently, and what might cause conflict between them. I liked her suggestion of fun plants to grow, and having a designated garden or part of a garden. Emma also gave good information about different plants and their needs, as well as the tools and tasks that are necessary.  I think that Emma's photographs and illustrations add an extra connection and sometime humorous touch that help readers connect to her and the information. My family gardened heavily when I was a kid, and I do not remember having the kind of interest and fun Emma does in the process. Hopefully this book will help inspire some young gardeners, and their parents, to kick it up a notch.

Gardening with Emma is a delightful guide, and I enjoyed the take on gardening advice. I think this is a wonder way for children to get more excited and involved in gardening, and help adults remember that excitement and why they love gardening as well.

Book Review: Who Are You Calling Weird: A Celebration of Weird & Wonderful Animals by Marilyn Singer

Who Are You Calling Weird: A Celebration of Weird & Wonderful Animals by Marilyn Singer is a wonderful children's book that celebrates the weird but wonderful creatures that are hidden away in Earth’s forests, caves, and oceans. These animals might look or behave in peculiar ways but, every oddity serves a purpose. From the green fur of a three-toed sloth, to the pink and wiggly appendage of the star-nosed mole, there’s something new to marvel at on every page. As well as finding out about each animal’s behavior, diet, and habitat, readers will also discover the folk beliefs about the creature. 

Who Are You Calling Weird is a delightful book, both visually and intellectually. My favorite bits of history and science have always centered on the weird and wonderful, and this book covered most of my favorite delightfully add creatures, and some that I had somehow missed. I think the combination of narrative fact sharing and lovely images come together in a way that will capture the interest and imagination of most readers, as it certainly captured mine. I love that fairly well know odd animals were covered, such as the aye-aye and three toed sloth. However, my favorite (the pangolin) and some less know creatures were given their due as well. I was extremely glad to see some sea creatures I had never known about before explored, and information that was new to me on some creatures that I thought I knew well.

Who Are You Calling Weird is an engaging book that can capture the reader's imagination. It inspired me to look a bit closer at some animals I thought I knew, and hopefully it will inspire young readers to explore the natural world a bit closer, and with a bit of wonder and urge to research more.