Welcome to this month’s book review newsletter, where I dive into the latest page-turners from heavyweights like John Grisham, William Kent Krueger, and David Baldacci—because who doesn’t love a master storyteller at the top of their game? But that’s not all! I’m also shining a spotlight on some phenomenal debut authors who are making waves with fresh voices and unforgettable stories. From pulse-pounding thrillers to heartwarming fiction (and even a few gems for the little bookworms in your life), there’s something here for every reader. Grab your favorite reading spot and let’s get to it—your next great read is waiting!
A Pair of Wings
By Carole Hopson
Carole Hopson’s debut novel takes readers on a breathtaking journey through the life of Bessie Coleman, a pioneering aviatrix who pursued freedom in the skies when such aspirations were daunting for a Black woman. Set in early 20th-century America, this riveting tale spans from Texas cotton fields to the heights of European skies, exploring themes of perseverance and identity.
Hopson’s vivid storytelling brings to life young Bessie’s first glimpse of an airplane, sparking her relentless drive to fly. Despite societal norms and racial barriers, Bessie’s determination leads her from Chicago’s segregated streets to France’s flight schools.
The depth of Hopson’s research enriches the story, particularly through Bessie’s relationships with supporters such as newspaper publisher Robert Abbott and banker Jesse Binga. Yet, it is Bessie’s fierce independence and unwavering faith that truly propel her.
Though the technical details of flying may be dense for some, aviation enthusiasts will appreciate the authenticity. Hopson, a United Airlines captain, masterfully captures the thrill of flight. But Bessie’s struggles with loneliness, self-doubt, and love make her triumph even more poignant.
Ultimately, Bessie’s journey isn’t just about her personal freedom but also about opening doors for others. Hopson’s portrayal of Queen Bess is a powerful reminder of resilience and determination, encouraging readers to pursue their dreams despite the obstacles. A Pair of Wings is a moving tribute to a trailblazer whose story deserves recognition.
Rating: 4.5 stars.
** Many thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this incredible novel. The opinions are my own.
A Calamity of Souls
By David Baldacci
A Calamity of Souls transports readers to 1968 Virginia, where Black Vietnam veteran Jerome Washington is on trial for the murder of his white employers, Leslie and Anne Randolph. Jerome, caught at the scene covered in blood, is immediately arrested.
Jack Lee, a white defense lawyer with no experience in murder trials, reluctantly takes on Jerome’s case. Out of his depth, Jack partners with Desiree DuBose, a Black attorney from the NAACP’s Legal Defense Fund. Together, they fight to save Jerome from the electric chair, navigating a flawed legal system entrenched in racism.
Baldacci draws from his own experiences as a former attorney and his childhood in 1960s Virginia to create a realistic, tension-filled narrative. A Calamity of Souls offers a nuanced portrayal of racial injustice, capturing the challenges of seeking fairness in an unequal world.
Over a decade in the writing, his latest novel breathes richly imagined and detailed life into a bygone era, taking the reader through a world that will seem both foreign and familiar.
While the language and attitudes may seem jarring to some, Baldacci’s commitment to historical accuracy makes this an eye-opening read. The twisty ending delivers a satisfying conclusion, and the ensemble cast in the audiobook brings the story to life.
Having read 31 of Baldacci’s books, I can confidently say that A Calamity of Souls ranks among his best. The memorable characters and enthralling storyline will remind readers of To Kill a Mockingbird.
Rating: 4 stars
My First Science Textbook: Protons and Neutrons
By Mary Wissinger, Harriet Kim Anh Rodis (Illustrator)
Who knew chemistry could be so charming? My First Science Textbook: Protons and Neutrons introduces kids to the building blocks of the universe in a fun and engaging way. This award-winning picture book brings science to life through Pete the Proton, Ned the Neutron, and Ellie the Electron, turning complex ideas into a delightful story of friendship.
The book’s rhyming sentences and vibrant illustrations captivated my grandchildren, ages 8 and 10, but they didn’t understand all the concepts, even though the target age range is 2-7. The bilingual English and Spanish format was a brilliant touch, making it accessible to even more young readers.
While my science-teacher husband pointed out a few details that weren’t 100 percent accurate, the book’s heart and humor overshadowed its minor flaws. It’s not a textbook replacement, but it’s a fantastic way to make abstract concepts feel approachable for little ones.
Overall, we rated this 4 stars. It’s a playful, educational story that plants the seeds of scientific curiosity—perfect for budding scientists and parents who want to sneak in some learning disguised as fun!
Rating: 4 stars
** Thanks to Science Naturally for the comp. The opinions are my own.
Spirit Crossing
By William Kent Krueger
In Spirit Crossing, the 20th installment of William Kent Krueger’s Cork O’Connor series, the story dives into themes of Native trauma, family bonds, and the environmental impact of Big Oil. When a politician’s daughter vanishes in Minnesota, sparking a huge search, Cork’s grandson finds the grave of an unidentified Ojibwe woman. This discovery sets off an intense investigation led by Cork and the Iron Lake Ojibwe Tribal Police, revealing a tangled web of connections and dangers, including a link to the missing girl.
Krueger skillfully intertwines real social issues with a compelling mystery, navigating the complexities of Indigenous rights and human trafficking with sensitivity and insight. The story treads into supernatural themes and introduces a multitude of characters that may overwhelm some readers. Despite a few cumbersome subplots, the heart of the mystery remains engaging, driven by Cork’s strong moral compass and his relentless pursuit of justice.
Spirit Crossing exemplifies Krueger’s talent for blending meaningful cultural discussions with thrilling mystery elements. This installment not only promises a gripping read but also reflects on significant societal issues, making it a noteworthy addition to the series.
Rating: 4 stars
** Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for a review copy. The opinions are my own.
*** A production company has optioned the Cork O’Connor series… I hope it comes to pass!
The Record Keeper
By Charles Martin
In our world, many people don’t believe evil exists. Our job as Christians is to rescue those in bondage by demonstrating the light of Christ. Yet those of us who stand in the light grow weary when darkness constantly threatens to take us down.
In The Record Keeper, Charles Martin delivers a gripping and intense exploration of the battle between good and evil. The story follows Murphy Shepherd, a man scarred by his past, who has dedicated his life to rescuing victims of human trafficking. With his mentor Bones by his side, Murphy has spent years taking down pedophiles and freeing the innocent. But when Bones suddenly disappears, Murphy discovers a shocking truth—Bones has an evil twin brother.
As Murphy embarks on a dangerous mission to find his mentor, the novel dives deep into the emotional and physical costs of confronting unimaginable evil. Martin’s powerful storytelling, filled with explosive action and raw emotion, highlights themes of sacrificial love and echoes the biblical parable of leaving the ninety-nine to save the one (Matthew 18:12). The way the author weaves scripture into the narrative adds depth and meaning, reminding readers of the spiritual undercurrents driving the characters’ actions.
While the plot is intense and emotionally charged, it occasionally falters with an overload of tactical details and some repetitive, roughly written sentences. Still, these minor flaws don’t take away from the urgency and heart of the story. The details of Bones’s childhood add richness to the narrative, giving the characters a deeper connection.
Overall, The Record Keeper is a captivating good-versus-evil tale that keeps readers on edge. It’s a reminder of the strength required to fight for justice, even when the cost is personal.
Rating: 4 stars
The Sicilian Inheritance
By Jo Piazza
Author Jo Piazza weaves a captivating multigenerational mystery, inspired by her own family, that spans over a century and two powerful women. Sara Marsala, reeling from the collapse of her business and marriage, finds an unexpected lifeline in her great-aunt Rosie’s passing. Armed with a plane ticket to Sicily, and a deed to family land, she sets off on the adventure of a lifetime. There she discovers a shocking family secret. Contrary to family lore, Sara’s great-grandmother Serafina didn’t die of illness—she was murdered.
As Sara traces Serafina’s story through the picturesque yet perilous Italian countryside, she uncovers more than just her family’s roots. Serafina was a strong-willed woman who defied societal norms in the early 1900s, and her defiance had deadly consequences. Sara’s modern-day investigation echoes her great-grandmother’s struggles, putting her in direct danger from the same forces that silenced Serafina.
The novel’s dual timeline builds suspense as Sara races to uncover the truth, facing the theft of her passport, a kidnapping, and local corruption. Piazza masterfully contrasts the challenges of 1900s Sicilian women left behind while their husbands sought fortunes in America with Sara’s own battles against modern-day discrimination and deceit.
With rich descriptions of Sicilian landscapes and a tight plot full of twists, The Sicilian Inheritance keeps readers hooked until the very end. This atmospheric, smart, and heart-pounding novel will equally enchant fans of historical fiction, and suspense.
Rating: 4 stars
** Thanks to the publisher for a comp of this book. The opinions are my own.
The Wishing Game
By Meg Shaffer
Lucy Hart knows all too well what it’s like to grow up without loving parents. In a childhood marked by neglect and loneliness, Lucy found solace in books, especially the Clock Island series by reclusive author Jack Masterson. Now a twenty-six-year-old teacher’s aide, she shares her love of reading with her young students, particularly seven-year-old Christopher Lamb, who tragically lost his parents and became an orphan. Lucy dreams of adopting Christopher, but she lacks the funds and stability to make it happen.
Jack Masterson, the mega-bestselling author of the Clock Island series, quit writing under mysterious circumstances and for the past six years has been drinking himself into an early grave. Suddenly, he resurfaces with a brand-new book and a one-of-a-kind competition.
Lucy receives an invitation to take part and jumps at the chance. Alongside three other contestants—all former runaways who sought refuge on Jack’s Island as children—Lucy must solve puzzles inspired by Jack’s books. The winner will receive the only copy of his new manuscript to do with whatever they want.
As the contest progresses, Lucy faces her deepest fears and insecurities. Meanwhile, Jack, burdened by his own sorrows, plots the ultimate twist ending that could transform all their lives.
The Wishing Game celebrates friendship and the enchanting world of storytelling. The book is charming, magical, whimsical, and entertaining. Despite some underdeveloped characters and a Willy Wonka-esque premise, it is an impressive debut and a delightful read. I highly recommend it and give it 4 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this book. The opinions are my own.
The Boys from Biloxi
By John Grisham
In The Boys from Biloxi, John Grisham masterfully weaves a tale of friendship, betrayal, and the complex interplay of law and crime set against the backdrop of 1960s Biloxi, Mississippi. The story follows two boys, Keith Rudy and Hugh Malco, whose childhood camaraderie devolves into a fierce rivalry as the circumstances of their lives draw them onto opposing paths. Keith, the son of a determined anti-crime prosecutor, dedicates himself to the law, while Hugh slips into the seedy underbelly of organized crime, following in the footsteps of his father, a notable crime figure in Biloxi.
Grisham’s narrative is both engaging and informative, shedding light on the historical context of Biloxi’s transformation, the impact of Hurricane Camille, and the pervasive nature of gambling and corruption in the region. With his trademarks of tension and courtroom drama, Grisham takes readers on a rollercoaster ride filled with riveting moments, especially during the courtroom showdowns, where his storytelling truly shines.
Despite its strengths, the novel has some shortcomings; certain storylines feel disjointed, and occasional inconsistencies may leave readers puzzled. However, as the story unfolds, the tension escalates, and the stakes become higher, pulling readers deeper into the narrative. The political undertones resonate with current events, providing an interesting perspective on corruption that feels timely and relevant.
While Grisham offers memorable characters and a heart-wrenching plot, the novel could benefit from a few more twists to elevate the suspense.
Rating: 3.5 stars.
** Thanks to the publisher for a review copy of this book. The opinions are my own.
How to Make a Peanut Butter Sandwich in 17 Easy Steps
By Bambi Edlund
Picture this: you’re starving. What better fix than a peanut butter sandwich? That’s when How to Make a Peanut Butter Sandwich in 17 Easy Steps arrives, accordion in hand, turning your snack craving into a woodland adventure.
This isn’t your typical how-to guide. It’s a laugh-out-loud, over-the-top journey featuring a donkey in clogs stomping peanuts, an accordion-playing raccoon, and synchronized squirrels spreading peanut butter with a knife carved by a beaver. And, of course, there’s a skunk adding its own flair.
For kids aged 4-7, including four of my grandkids, this book is perfect for giggles. The steps are hilariously absurd, and the story emphasizes teamwork and accepting differences. Each animal plays an important role, showing kids that everyone’s unique contributions matter.
If you’re ready to embrace the silliness, this book delivers laughs and a fun message. Just grab the print version—and maybe a real peanut butter sandwich, because you’ll definitely be craving one.
Rating: 3 stars
Until next time,
Amy