Book Review: A Panicked Premonition (Psychic Eye Mystery) by Victoria Laurie

A Panicked Premonition is the fifteenth book in the Psychic Eye Mystery series by Victoria Laurie. I read many of this series, but am certain I missed some along the way.  I think most fans of the author, even if they missed a book or two, will be able to catch on quickly. However, some newcomers to the series might get lost in the relationships and quirks of the series.

Professional psychic and FBI consultant Abby Cooper has used her inner visions to get her out of many a scrape—and solve many a crime—but she’s about to face a murder scene that will put all her powers to the test. Abby’s husband Dutch has a side business providing security and building panic rooms for wealthy clients. One morning, one of Dutch’s partners, Dave, goes missing on his way to meet a client. Abby’s intuition tells her something terrible has happened to him.  Then two of Dutch’s clients are found brutally murdered inside their brand new panic room, and most of the evidence points to Dave as the killer.  With the authorities racing to find and arrest him, Abby's got to use all her intuitive prowess to get to Dave first, discover the real killer, and save her husband's business. This is one case where Abby is positive there’s far more to this mystery than meets her inner eye.

A Panicked Premonition holds up well in the genre of cozy mysteries. I found that Abby and her friends continue to grow and change as the world around them effects them. I like that they so obviously care about each other, and tell each other the truth- even when it might be hard. I also like that the mystery is multi layered, and while I quickly decided that it was not the obvious culprit- the final reveal left me stunned on a few small details. I liked the way the psychic flavor was worked into the story, definitely playing its role without coming in as campy or solving the entire case with out overcoming actual detective work. I loved seeing the interactions between Abby, Dutch, and the rest of the crew as they settle into life as married couples, and working together in their own way. The characters and the solid mystery kept me eager to see what would happen on the next page, and how Abby might react. I did feel like I might have missed a book or two, or perhaps it has just been too long since I read the previous book, because I did not remember some little things mentioned or alluded to in the book. 

A Panicked Premonition is a wonderful continuation to the series, and had me guessing until the very end. The characters and writing style have stayed consistent, and the mysteries seem to have gotten more complicated and compelling. 

Early Book Review: Polly Diamond and the Magic Book by Alice Kuipers, Diana Toledano

Polly Diamond and the Magic Book is an illustrated chapter book written by Alice Kuipers, and Illustrated by Diana Toledano. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018. Polly loves words. And she loves writing stories. So when a magic book appears on her doorstep that can make everything she writes happen in real life, Polly is certain all of her dreams are about to come true. But she soon learns that what you write and what you mean are not always the same thing!

Polly Diamond and the Magic Book is a cute chapter book for newly independent and developing readers. The illustrations are charming and add a lot of humor and detail to the story. I found the characters, including all of Polly's family, to be realistic and relatable. While Polly gets herself into trouble with her written attempts to improve her day the reactions of her parents, sister, and all are not unexpected and completely understandable given the changes coming to their household. I loved the positive outlook and fun names that fill the book, and that aspects of grammar, writing, and language tools are such a strong aspect of the story and cant teach young readers about how to use this aspects of language. However, despite the educational value of the book- it does not feel like it is teaching lessons, instead it is just a fun and endearing read that I think many young readers can enjoy and relate to.

Polly Diamond and the Magic Book is a fun, endearing book that I think many young readers will enjoy, and leave them looking to continue the series. The level of imagination and good humor that fills this book makes it a wonderful book to explore alone, or share. 

Early Book Review: Manfried the Man by Caitlin Major, Kelly Bastow

Manfried the Man is a graphic novel by Caitlin Major and Kelly Bastow that reverses the roles of cats and people. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018.

Manfried is a stray man taken in by Steve Catson, a slacker with a dead-end job and nonexistent love life. Soon Manfried becomes the Garfield to Steve’s Jon Arbuckle: lazy, selfish, and sometimes maddening in his weird human behavior. Yet the pair depends on each other to get through life’s troubles. When Manfried runs away, Steve musters his meager resources to find his best man-friend and bring him home safe. Ultimately, both Steve and Manfried realize they’re capable of so much more than they thought.

Manfried the Man is a clever idea, that I am surprised has not already done. The art is very well done, and tells a story that is not all sunshine and roses. Steve has a dead end job, and even that does not last. He doubts himself, his worth, and worries about how others see him. I think most single adults, and most cat lovers (single or not) can relate to many of the conflicts, thoughts, and wackiness that happens around pets. I found that there were times my heart broke for Steve, times I worried for Manfried, and other times that the action made me smile or giggle. I think most cat lovers will get something from the read, and I think it will resonate with many readers as well. I enjoyed the read, even the less happy moments, and found it very much worth my time. 

Early Book Review: Fish-Boy by Vanita Oelschlager

Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale is a picturebook by Vanita Oelschlager with art by Mike Blanc. It is currently scheduled for release on May 1 2018. 

The Arctic region of North America is a land of long days, icy cold, hardy people and peculiar creatures.  The Inuit people there have made traditional use of remarkable folk tales to find truth and explain the mysteries of an astonishing world. In this book Vanita Oelschlager retells a tale passed down by a wise old Inuit.  It is an origin story involving a little magic and a very odd boy with a large heart for friendship.  On a journey with his new father, he must confront misfortune and the malice of cold-hearted villagers.  But he has a way, and a lesson for all in the virtues of kindness and hospitality.

 

Fish-Boy is a beautifully illustrated tale, and one I am glad I explored. It is a little more complex and text heavy than the typical picturebook, however I think the book does exactly what it was meant to. It imparts an important tale from a culture that too many have ignored. While the laws of hospitality are not unique to the Inuit culture, I had not heard this particular story before. The art is captivating, and will keep younger readers that might not be able to read the book on their own, or understand the finer details, interested. I loved that a glossary and ideas for using creativity and expand thinking were included in the back. A bonus for those that buy the book, which I was unaware of, is that all the net profits from the sales of this book will be donate to the Oak Clinic for Multiple Sclerosis by Vanita Books. 

Fish-Boy is an older picturebook that tells a valuable story from a culture too few have explored. I think the depth of the story and wording makes it good for an audience a little older than the traditional picturebook crowd, but the story and message is one that should speak to everyone.

Early Book Review: Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics by Shannon Burns

Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics by Shannon Burns is currently scheduled for release on April 3 2018. When she’s not studying for her PhD in social neuroscience, Silvousplaits (a.k.a. Shannon Burns) is creating and posting weekly instructional videos on her YouTube channel of DIY hair art that mimics the hairstyles of valiant men and women in the best historical, sci-fi, and fantasy shows and movies. Game of Thrones, Lord of the Rings, Vikings, and The Hunger Games--oh yeah, she's done them all. In Badass Braids she shows you how to transform your hair step-by-step. You'll look just like your favorite heroes and heroines in no time. With an introduction to the styling techniques for different kinds of basic braids, interviews with behind-the-scenes stylists and actors, and original styles inspired by fan-favorites.

Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics has me wishing I had my long hair back, and willing to go through the awkward regrowth process so that I can try more of these out. This book offers readers a good deal of information on the tools and tricks for perfect braiding. I liked the amount of detail given about the different combs, brushes, other tools and decorations that could be used and how or why you might want to use one or another. The tips and instructions are all well done and very detailed, but never talk down to the readers, which sometimes happens in how-to books of every variety. I also like that there is information on the character each style is based on with each style, both including who they are portrayed by and some information on the real character from history, literature, and so on. The combination of photographs, illustrations, and step by step instructions make the process easy to follow on your own.

Badass Braids: From Vikings to Game of Thrones, 50 Maverick Looks for Sci-Fi and Fantasy Fanatics is a wonderful book for hair and braid lovers, and those looking to emulate the characters from various shows and movies. It could also be helpful for cosplay, conventions, and other costumed events. While not everyone needs this book, anyone wanting to expand thier knowledge of hairstyles in general, and braiding in particular, would do well to get this book. 

Early Book Reviews: Wolf Sanctuary: The Wolves of Speedwell Forge by Chuck Rineer

Wolf Sanctuary: The Wolves of Speedwell Forge by Chuck Rineer is both a photography collection and a non fiction book about the wolves of Speedwell Forge Wolf Sanctuary.It is currently scheduled for release on April 28 2018.

Speedwell Forge Wolf Sanctuary is a refuge for displaced wolves in the rolling hills of Pennsylvania. Through the images readers can experience wolves at work and play, and encounter their howls and growls close up. Since 2007, Chuck Rineer has photographed the packs in their natural habitat, displaying a connection and respect for their way of life that few of us will experience. See the hidden details of wolf life, and go behind-the-scenes of this special sanctuary. Learn how the newest wolves are integrated into the packs, something rarely seen by human eyes, and follow all the wolves through the different seasons of the year. Full of stunning photographs, stories, and insights into pack behavior, this is a must-have book for those who have been captivated by wolves from afar and long for the chance to see these majestic animals up close and personal.

Wolf Sanctuary: The Wolves of Speedwell Forge has some wonderful photographs and very interesting  information about this sanctuary, it staff, and the wolves. It was a well organized and worded collection of information- with some pictures that might seem commonplace, but others that are startling. My daughter is wolf obsessed, and I have always been a fan, so I have done my fair share of wolf research. However, getting to see the current state of a wolf sanctuary, and some of the work and people involved behind the scenes was moving. I enjoyed getting to see all that is involved in the lives of the wolves, and what goes into keeping them safe and happy without encroaching on their natural behaviors. I have a feeling this might become a household favorite, but fear that requests for a road trip will soon follow. 

Book Review: Brew: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens

Brew: A Love Story by Tracy Ewens is a contemporary romance. Boyd McNaughton is working on balance. He is a father, a brewmaster, and the oldest brother of four. When he’s not running Foghorn Brewery with two of his brothers, his days are packed with carpools, teenage angst, and well-intentioned school moms determined to send him on the perfect blind date. After a simple argument ends with a visit to the emergency room, Boyd discovers the one thing he’s been neglecting, his life. Ella Walters is working on connection. Having grown up in a less-than-affectionate family of overachievers, she moved to Petaluma for a slower pace and to escape her past. She has friends now instead of accolades, chooses chocolate croissants over super foods, and cherishes the peace that’s replaced the drama. Sure, she occasionally misses the buzz of the San Francisco General Hospital ER, but Ella is learning that navigating a fuller life can be just as exciting. When Boyd’s son, Mason, seeks out Dr. Ella for “advice” and Boyd stumbles all over her newly healed heart, she finds herself longing for something she never knew existed. But families are messy, and they’ll both need to let go of the past if they want to find a future that’s more than by the book.

Brew: A Love Story is a modern romance full of the trials of connection and letting go. None of us come into a new relationship without our past shaping how we see things and react, this is particularly true with the main players of this story. Ella comes to the story with a less than pleasant family, and something that sent her running from her perfectly ordered life. She is just starting to let people in, and start feeling with the help of great friends. Boyd is a dad first, and everything else second. When he took charge of raising his son he did everything he could o give Mason the best life he could, but things are changing, because Mason is growing up (as they tend to) faster than he is really prepared for. Neither Boyd or Ella is quite ready to jump on in, but their attraction and the support of those around them urge them in the right direction. Now they each just need to get out of their own heads and pasts, and work on figuring out what they want and need. I love the reality of this story, because none of use are in a vacuum. Family, past troubles, friends, and everything around us effects how we interact with others and perceive he world. I love that there was movement in the relationships and characters around them as well, showing just how fluid and changeable life really is. Boyd and Ella each have things to work out, and those that support them and give them the straight talk that they occasionally need to open their eyes. The honesty and heart break her was very well done, and while there were moments when I wanted to kick one or both of them, I was glad to see them find their way.

Brew: A Love Story is a heart warming story of two people finding each other, and themselves. I enjoyed the read, and hope to explore more from this author in the near future. 

Book Review: Kim Reaper: Grim Beginnings by Sarah Graley

Kim Reaper: Grim Beginnings by Sarah Graley is a graphic novel that collects the first four issues of the comic. Like most university students, Kim works a part-time job to make ends meet. Unlike most university students, Kim's job is pretty cool: she's a grim reaper, tasked with guiding souls into the afterlife. Like most university students, Becka has a super intense crush. Unlike most university students, Becka's crush is on a beautiful gothic angel that frequents the underworld. Of course, she doesn't know that.Unaware of the ghoulish drama she's about to step into, Becka finally gathers up the courage to ask Kim on a date! But when she falls into a ghostly portal and interrupts Kim at her job, she sets off a chain of events that will pit the two of them against angry cat-dads, vengeful zombies, and perhaps even the underworld itself. But if they work together, they just might make it and maybe even get a smooch in the bargain.

Kim Reaper: Grim Beginnings is a fun, fast read with cute and compelling artwork. I was already familiar with the artist's work, so the style is exactly what I was expecting. I like the combination of sweet, sassy, and strong for the lead characters. I also like the combination of humor and danger inherent in Kim's job and the complications that it involves. I would have liked a little more of the relationship side- one minute Kim does not know who Becka is and the next she is trying to impress her with haunted, sunken ships. However, the fast pace of the story and the quirky nature of it made the read enjoyable. I think most of the people that would pick this graphic novel up- based on the cover, author, or summary, will fully enjoy the read. 

Book Review: What a Highlander's Got to Do (Untamed Highlander) by Sabrina York

What a Highlander's Got to Do is the fifth book in the Untamed Highlander series by Sabrina York. Each book in the series has some character carry over, but they can all be read as stand alones. 

Isobel Dounreay Lochlannach is a fierce and independent Scots lass. She has no intention to marry—to submit to a man—especially not an Englishman. But when she meets a devilish stable lad on the way to London, she can’t help but sneak a kiss with the handsome stranger, sure to never see him again. Nick Wyeth is not a stable lad. He’s Viscount Stirling, and heir to one of the most powerful dukes in the realm. If their indiscretion is discovered, Isobel will be forced to marry him, to succumb to a fate she has always spurned. Nick wants nothing but to call this wild Scottish lass his own, and is determined to show her how an English Viscount can make her swoon, and be his forever.

What a Highlander's Got to Do is a historical romance with many twists and turns. We have the headstrong, capable Isobel on her way to London for a season she does not want. I like that while she is resilient and strong she is also scared of losing herself and does not want to become the wife of someone who would cage or own her. Nick makes a mistake in no clearing up a case of mistaken identity in the beginning, but that is only the start of the problems for a viscount that had no interest in marriage before running into Isobel and their moments together. I enjoyed the family and friend connections, and the humor and honest discussions they have with Nick and Isobel in turn, trying to help them find their path. I also like that for the most part, Isobel and Nick are as honest with each other as they are with themselves. I am a big fan of romantic couples actually talking things out rather than skating over the issues that had been between them earlier or ignoring them completely. The danger element added some spark to the story, and certainly added some excitement. It was well done, and good fun and wrapped up quickly, but I wonder if it was needed.I also liked that the external conflicts were fairly easy to over come, but the inner doubts and struggles were the heart of the barriers between Isobel and Nick. Their communication and connection was beautifully done. As a whole, I greatly enjoyed the read for the characters, their interaction, and the humor I found in those interactions.

What a Highlander's Got to Do is a wonderful historical romance from York, although I have come to expect nothing less. If you are a fan, then you know you will already be giving this book a go. If you are not a fan yet, but love a good historical with a touch of a brogue, then give the author a try.

Early Book Review: The City on the Other Side by Mairghread Scott, Robin Robinson

The City on the Other Side by Mairghread Scott and Robin Robinson is a fantasy graphic novel currently scheduled for release on April 24 2018. In this story a young girl stumbles into a pitched war between two fairy kingdoms, and the fate of San Francisco itself hangs in the balance! Sheltered within her high-society world, Isabel plays the part of a perfectly proper little girl. She is quiet, well-behaved, and she keeps her dresses spotlessly clean. She’s certainly not the kind of girl who goes on adventures. But that all changes when Isabel breaches an invisible barrier and steps into another world. She discovers a city not unlike her own, but magical and dangerous. Here, war rages between the fairies of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. Only Isabel, with the help of a magical necklace and a few new friends, stands a chance of ending the war before it destroys the fairy world, and her own.

The City on the Other Side is a coming of age or quest adventure with a fae twist. I like that Isabel is a quiet girl that wants more right from the start, and while she grows and gains confidence she keeps the same core of goodness. She faces the trails of feeling neglected by her parents, and lost in the shuffle. I like how she is kind despite the way she feels, and how she is willing to step up and help, even when she is clearly in over her head. I think the secondary characters and conflict of the fae war is well done, and while it carries shades of what i thought I knew about the fairy world, it was approached in a fresh, new way. The young orphan-ish hero is also a tried and true story, but her challenges were well written and drawn, making the story feel fresh rather than stale- which happens often. I liked while I was often wondering who might betray our main players, and how the story would come together in the end. I liked the art work, but it was a little sharper than I normally like. The humans had a much rounder feel than the fae, which made the differences more pronounced. Since I was looking at a digital galley, I fully expect that it looks even better in the physical copy. 

The City on the Other Side is a well done graphic novel that will appeal to middle grade readers, young adult readers, and adults. I enjoyed the read, and think many readers of all ages will enjoy it as well.