Welcome to Amy’s Picks and Pans – Issue 40, where my reading life has clearly been living its best, most dramatic, globe-trotting existence. This batch took me from 16th-century France to the Canadian wilderness, from small-town courtrooms to Nazi Germany, and even into the delicate (and sometimes chaotic) corners of childhood and faith. In other words—no passport required, just a comfy chair.
What struck me this month was the sheer range. I found myself completely swept away by a few unforgettable five-star reads (the kind that make you cancel plans and ignore laundry), while a handful of others didn’t quite stick the landing. There are powerful stories of resilience, richly layered historical fiction, twisty mysteries, and a couple of heartfelt reads that hit close to home—especially if you’ve ever read with a grandchild curled up beside you.
As always, I’m sharing the standouts, the surprises, and yes… the ones that made me tilt my head and say, “Hmm.” Whether you’re looking for your next can’t-put-it-down novel or just want to see what’s worth your time, I’ve got you covered.
Let’s dive in.
ISOLA
By Allegra Goodman
Historical Fiction at Its Finest
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
Allegra Goodman’s Isola is a breathtaking novel of survival, resilience, and love, inspired by the real-life story of Marguerite de la Rocque. Marguerite, a young French noblewoman orphaned at three and at the mercy of her ruthless guardian, captivated me from the moment I met her. Her journey—from privilege to abandonment on a remote island—unfolds in vivid, gripping prose.
Marguerite’s transformation makes this novel shine. Once pampered and naïve, she is thrust into an unforgiving world where nature becomes both her adversary and her teacher. Her love for Auguste, her guardian’s secretary, is passionate and defiant, but their affair seals their fate. Betrayed and marooned in the harsh Canadian wilderness, Marguerite faces unimaginable loss. Yet she endures. Her journey is heartbreaking yet empowering, her survival a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
Goodman’s writing is lush and atmospheric, transporting readers from the grandeur of 16th-century France to the brutal isolation of the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Every detail—the icy winds, the desolation, the flicker of hope—feels real. The villain, Roberval, is chilling in his cruelty, making Marguerite’s fight for survival even more enthralling.
This novel is historical fiction at its finest—an epic tale of greed, betrayal, and strength. If you love immersive storytelling, rich character development, and tales of fierce, unforgettable women, Isola is a must-read. It exceeded my expectations in every way. Absolutely brilliant!
** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for complimentary review copies of the ebook and audiobook. The opinions are my own.
PRESUMED GUILTY
By Scott Turow
Turow’s Latest Legal Thriller Delivers Tension and Insight
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
Scott Turow proves once again why he’s the king of the legal thriller with Presumed Guilty. This book pulled me in from the first page and didn’t let go. Rusty Sabich, now retired, finds himself back in the courtroom defending his fiancée’s son, Aaron, against a murder charge. The stakes couldn’t be higher, and the tension is palpable as Turow expertly navigates themes of racial bias, small-town dynamics, and the complexities of the justice system.
The courtroom drama is riveting—Turow obviously has courtroom experience, but he also has a delightful sense of humor. Rusty’s internal conflict adds emotional depth, and the layered characters make them authentic and relatable. Aaron’s struggles as a Black man in a predominantly white small town are handled thoughtfully.
At 544 pages, some parts could’ve been trimmed. But the pacing, plot twists, and strong character development make it worth it. Rusty’s personal journey and the courtroom scenes are top-notch, showcasing Turow’s storytelling at its best.
The audiobook, narrated by Grover Gardner, is exceptional—his voice brings the characters to life and heightens the drama. As a fan of legal thrillers, I found Presumed Guilty to be a compelling addition to Turow’s work. It’s a book that not only entertains but also makes you think deeply about what justice really means in contemporary America. For those new to Turow or returning fans, this book reaffirms why Scott Turow is a master of the genre.
** Thanks to the publishers for complimentary copies of both the eBook and the audio version.
THE LOTUS SHOES
By Jane Yang
A Tale of Resilience and Betrayal in 19th-Century China
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
1800s China. Tightly bound feet, or “golden lilies, are the mark of an honorable woman, eclipsing beauty, a rich dowry, and even bloodline in the marriage stakes. When her mother sells Little Flower into slavery as a maidservant—a muizai—to Linjing, a daughter of the prominent Fong family, she clings to the hope that one day her golden lilies will lead her out of slavery.
Not only does Little Flower have bound feet, uncommon for a muizai, but she is extraordinarily gifted at embroidery, a skill associated with the highest class of a lady. Resentful of her talents, Linjing does everything in her power to thwart Little Flower’s escape.
But when scandal strikes the Fongs, both women are cast out to the Celibate Sisterhood, where Little Flower’s artistic prowess catches the eye of a nobleman. His attention threatens not only her improved status but her life—the Sisterhood punishes disobedience with death. And if Linjing finds out, will she sabotage Little Flower to reclaim her power, or will she protect her?
Yang masterfully depicts the harsh realities of foot binding, servitude, and the complexities of female relationships in a male-dominated society. The historical details, especially regarding silk-making and social hierarchies, add depth to the narrative. The Lotus Shoes is an empowering story of two women from different worlds, bound by fate and tested by betrayal, ambition, and love. It’s a stunning debut that lingers long after the final page. 5 stars.
** My thanks to the publisher for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
ANXIOUS FOR NOTHING: FINDING CALM IN A CHAOTIC WORLD
By Max Lucado
Finding Peace in the Storm: Max Lucado’s Guide to Overcoming Anxiety
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
Max Lucado’s Anxious for Nothing: Finding Calm in a Chaotic World is a life-changing book for anyone struggling with anxiety. As someone who has battled generalized anxiety disorder for nearly 20 years, I found this book to be a godsend. Lucado’s words offer understanding, comfort, and hope, especially for Christians who often feel guilty for their anxiety, believing their lack of peace reflects a lack of faith.
Lucado compassionately addresses this guilt and reframes it through the lens of Scripture, particularly Philippians 4:6-7: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
With his signature warmth and storytelling, Lucado provides a roadmap for finding calm amidst life’s chaos. He acknowledges the overwhelming statistics on anxiety, showing readers they are not alone, and offers God’s grace as the ultimate remedy. His practical guidance is rooted in Scripture, inviting readers to lean on God’s promises to find peace beyond understanding.
Free of theological jargon, Anxious for Nothing is accessible, heartfelt, and relatable. It’s a timely message in today’s anxious world and a reminder that even in life’s perfect storms, Jesus offers perfect peace. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking solace and hope.
With God’s help, you can experience a life where you are anxious for nothing. Five stars!
THE CHRISTMAS PROMISE
By Alison Mitchell, Catalina Echeverri (Illustrations)
A Whimsical Retelling of the Christmas Story
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
I recently read The Christmas Promise with my granddaughter, and it was a delightful experience. This charming picture book retells the Christmas story in a way that captures young hearts and minds, emphasizing how God kept His promise to send a new King—one who would rescue His people and reign forever. The language is simple and engaging, making it perfect for children aged 3 to 6, while the vivid illustrations by Catalina Echeverri bring the story to life.
As fans of the “Tales that Tell the Truth Series,” we found this book to be another excellent addition. The series consistently provides faithful, Bible-centered storytelling paired with artwork that appeals to kids. My granddaughter wasn’t thrilled with the pen-like squiggles in the illustrations, which she thought looked like accidental doodles. While I reassured her it was part of the artistic style, she stuck to her critique and dropped her rating to 4 stars.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Christmas Promise. It’s a meaningful way to teach children the true significance of Christmas and God’s unwavering faithfulness. For me, it’s a 5-star book, even if my little critic disagrees!
THE SUNFLOWER HOUSE
By Adriana Allegri
A Haunting Tale of the Nazi Lebensborn Program in WWII Germany
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5 stars)
The Sunflower House by Adriana Allegri is a stunning tale set in WWII, Germany. At the heart of the novel is Allina Strauss, a young woman living an idyllic life in a small German village. Her world shatters when she discovers her Jewish heritage. Forced into a notorious Lebensborn home designed to breed children for the Reich, Allina struggles between survival and helping others trapped in the system.
Karl von Strassberg, an SS officer with hidden loyalties, becomes her unlikely ally. Their sacrificial and unforgettable romance is a small bright spot in a dark reality, proving love can endure hopeless times.
The story unfolds through multiple timelines, including 2006, when Allina’s daughter Katrine discovers a swastika-marked box revealing her mother’s past. This structure heightens suspense and sheds light on Allina’s brave choices and Karl’s covert work. While Allegri does not shy from the brutalities of the Nazi regime, hope and resilience shine on every page.
I highly recommend The Sunflower House. Allegri portrays Allina’s journey with empathy, realism, and authenticity. This remarkable debut illuminates history’s darkest corners with a steady undercurrent of hope. Five stars—I can’t recommend it enough.
**Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.**
THE MIGHTY RED
By Louise Erdrich
A Love Triangle on the Prairie: Louise Erdrich’s Tender and Powerful Tale of People, Land, and Loss
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
Pulitzer Prize winner Louise Erdrich’s The Mighty Red took me back to the fields and skies of rural North Dakota, where my mother grew up. This novel, set during the 2008 recession, captures the soul of a prairie town—the people, the land, and the struggles that tie them together.
The characters are vividly real, especially Crystal, a sugar beet hauler trying to give her daughter Kismet a better life. Kismet’s love triangle with Gary, the high school quarterback, and Hugo, a dreamy outsider, adds emotional depth, though their angst occasionally veers into YA territory. The humor—like a chaotic town book club—balances the heavy themes of fracking, climate change, and economic collapse.
Erdrich’s prose is breathtaking. She paints the prairie with poetic strokes while grounding the story in the harsh realities of farming life. The Red River becomes a character itself, mirroring the unpredictability of love and nature. I was shocked to learn that they process sugar beets with animal bones—one of many unsettling details Erdrich weaves in.
It took me a while to settle into the story—the timelines and shifting perspectives can be tricky. But once I found the rhythm, I couldn’t put it down. The mix of humor, heartbreak, and small-town quirks kept me hooked.
If you’re patient and appreciate excellent writing, The Mighty Red is worth every page. It’s a tender, haunting story about love, resilience, and our fragile ties to the land. 4 stars.
** Thanks to Edelweiss and the publisher for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
A WILD AND HEAVENLY PLACE
by Robin Oliveira
A Sweeping Journey from Glasgow to Seattle
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
I picked up A Wild and Heavenly Place because I love historical fiction, though romance isn’t my usual genre. I’m glad I gave it a try. The story follows Hailey MacIntyre and Samuel Fiddes from the slums of Glasgow to the untamed frontier of Seattle. Their connection happens fast, and they can’t seem to stay apart, no matter how life tries to separate them.
I traveled to Scotland twice, so the descriptions of Glasgow felt familiar. Still, I wanted more sensory detail. I longed for deeper sights and sounds that would pull me further into the streets and shipyards. That said, the scenes in Seattle offered a window into the city’s early days, which I found fascinating. Locals will spot real landmarks and events woven into the plot.
In addition to reading the eBook, I listened to parts of the audiobook and enjoyed the narrator’s Scottish accent. It brought the characters to life, though James’s voice irritated me. He came across as whiny and annoying. From the beginning to the end, I rooted for the primary couple. Although the plot felt predictable, I didn’t mind. It was a relief to escape into their story for a while.
Overall, A Wild and Heavenly Place brought me on an absorbing adventure. I’d recommend it for readers seeking a sweeping love story set against a rugged backdrop. 4 stars.
** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy. The opinions are my own.
MIDDLETIDE
By Sarah Crouch
A Twisty Literary Thriller with a Haunting Premise
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
In this gripping debut, a small town is rocked by the suspicious death of Dr. Erin Landry, with all clues pointing to reclusive failed writer Elijah Leith. As the town turns against him, Elijah must prove his innocence before it’s too late.
Elijah returns to his childhood home in Point Orchards, Washington, after his writing career collapses, only to find himself at the center of a murder investigation. When Erin Landry is found hanging from a tree on his property, the police suspect suicide—until eerie similarities to Elijah’s own novel emerge. As the investigation deepens, secrets unravel, forcing Elijah to confront past betrayals and an unexpected enemy intent on framing him.
Crouch’s writing shines with lush descriptions and a strong sense of place. The novel’s alternating timelines between Elijah’s teenage romance with Nakita and the present-day murder investigation create a layered, character-driven mystery. While some narrative shifts slow the pacing, the final act delivers a satisfying and well-executed twist.
For readers who enjoy atmospheric thrillers with complex characters, Middletide is an engaging debut with an intriguing premise. Though not flawless, it’s an impressive start for Crouch, and I look forward to seeing what she writes next. 4 stars.
EMILY WAS SO EMBARRASSED
By Michelle Olson
⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4 stars)
While she was staying with us over the weekend, my granddaughter and I dove into Michelle Olson’s charming tale about Emily, a little girl with a secret talent for ribbon dancing. However, Emily’s biggest challenge isn’t her dance moves; it’s her fear of performing in front of others. She worries about making mistakes and being laughed at, preferring the safety of her room where no eyes are on her.
The illustrations in this book are just as engaging as the story, filled with cute and expressive drawings that perfectly capture Emily’s emotions—from her joyful twirls in solitude to her anxious expressions at the thought of public performance. My granddaughter adored the visuals, commenting on how “cute” each page looked.
The heart of the story lies in its message about overcoming fear and the importance of friendship. When Emily’s best friend invites her to join her in the talent show, it sets off a flurry of mixed emotions. The story beautifully describes Emily’s internal struggle and eventual courage to step out of her comfort zone.
Together, my granddaughter and I were touched by the story’s gentle lesson on bravery and self-acceptance. It’s a book that not only entertains but also imparts a significant life lesson in a way that’s accessible and relatable for young children. We both agreed—this book deserves a glowing four stars for its delightful narrative and the sweet morals it shares.
** Thank you to the author and the publisher for a complimentary copy. The opinions are my own.
HOLMES IS MISSING
By James Patterson, Brian Sitts
A Modern Spin on a Classic Kidnapping Mystery
⭐⭐⭐⭐
James Patterson and Brian Sitts team up again to deliver an intense and twisty mystery in Holmes Is Missing. This installment follows the elite detective trio of Holmes, Marple, and Poe—except this time, Holmes has vanished, leaving his partners to tackle one of their toughest cases yet: the abduction of six newborns from a private New York hospital.
Marple’s sharp instincts and Poe’s grit shine as they unravel secrets that span continents. Along the way, they uncover startling truths about the case—and about Holmes himself. Patterson and Sitts balance fast-paced action with character depth, giving readers a closer look at the trio’s complex pasts.
The case is intense and chilling, touching on fears every parent can relate to, and the twists kept me guessing until the end. The story seamlessly moves from New York to London, with Marple and Poe’s partnership taking center stage. Holmes’s eventual involvement adds both tension and surprises, though the cliffhanger leaves some threads dangling. I’m eager to read the next book in the series if there is one.
New readers may want to start with book one, Holmes, Marple & Poe, to catch all the references; I felt lost a couple times. With its mix of heart, humor, and high stakes, this is a series worth following. 4 stars.
** Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for a complimentary review copy. The opinions are my own.
IDENTITY UNKNOWN
By Patricia Cornwell
Secrets, Subplots, and Strange Skies: Cornwell’s Latest Scarpetta Mystery
⭐⭐⭐½ for the eBook, ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ for the narration
Identity Unknown takes Dr. Kay Scarpetta into two chilling cases: the suspicious death of 7-year-old Luna Briley and the bizarre murder of Nobel-winning physicist Sal Giordano, who was once Scarpetta’s lover.
The story begins with intrigue, from a tragic child abuse case to a haunting murder scene in an abandoned theme park, complete with crop circles and eerie clues.
The forensic details are sharp, but the novel feels overloaded. With countless subplots and references to past events, I struggled to keep track. This isn’t a standalone—new readers will probably feel left out. The UFO angle was weird, though it ironically reflects the current US drone sightings.
Cornwell excels at creating a fascinating cast, and Scarpetta’s emotional depth shines, especially in her reaction to Sal’s death. My favorite part was January LaVoy’s audiobook narration. Her velvet voice brings the characters to life, making the story more enjoyable. If you’re considering Identity Unknown, the audiobook is the way to go.
Though the mystery starts off baffling, the ending is underwhelming. Longtime fans may enjoy revisiting familiar faces, but for newcomers, Identity Unknown might be too much to unpack. As a grandmother, reading about an abused child hit me hard. It’s a painful element that adds emotional weight.
** Thanks to the publishers for copies of the eBook and audio. The opinions are my own.
WOLF HOLLOW
By Victoria Houston
A Small-Town Mystery with Northwoods Charm but Missing Depth
⭐️⭐️⭐️ (3 stars)
Murder shakes the quiet Wisconsin Northwoods in Wolf Hollow, the first book in Victoria Houston’s new series featuring police chief Lewellyn “Lew” Ferris. With a sheriff’s race underway, Lew juggles multiple cases—some of which hit too close to home. When local landowner Grace McDonough’s son, Noah, is accused of a sex crime, Lew makes the arrest. But when her own brother, Pete, turns up dead, things take a darker turn. Then Grace is found dead in her submerged car, and Noah is soon murdered as well. As Lew digs deeper, she uncovers a web of secrets surrounding a controversial mining deal and a conspiracy that could cost her everything.
Houston skillfully depicts the Northwoods setting, and her familiarity with the area is evident. Fans of cozy mysteries will enjoy the small-town atmosphere and outdoorsy details, though the book leans heavier on police procedural elements than a traditional cozy. Lew is a strong female lead in a nontraditional career, which was a highlight. However, the writing felt simplistic at times, lacking the emotional depth I wanted—especially regarding Lew’s reaction to her brother’s death. Some passages, particularly those on fishing, dragged on longer than necessary.
Overall, Wolf Hollow is a decent mystery with a compelling premise, but it didn’t fully hook me. While it’s an enjoyable read, it lacks the tension and depth to make it truly memorable. Not a standout for me.
THE GREY WOLF
By Louise Penny
A Disappointing Chapter in the Gamache Saga
⭐⭐⭐ (3 stars)
Louise Penny’s The Grey Wolf is the 19th installment in her Chief Inspector Armand Gamache series. While Penny’s skill in crafting atmospheric settings and delving into moral complexities is evident, this novel fails to live up to the standards of her earlier work.
The story kicks off with Gamache enjoying a quiet morning in Three Pines, only to have it interrupted by a series of strange events—a cryptic note, a break-in, and a trail of clues tied to a plot to poison Québec’s water supply. The stakes are high, taking Gamache and his team from Three Pines to monasteries, the Vatican, and beyond. While this epic scope adds intrigue, it sacrifices the intimate character dynamics that make this series shine.
The pacing is slow, bogged down by overly complicated plot threads and philosophical musings that feel excessive. The plot stretches believability, and the lack of focus on Three Pines’ beloved residents is a major letdown. Fans of Penny’s charming village setting will be disappointed to see it play such a minor role here.
The conclusion, while offering some closure, ends with a cliffhanger leading to the next installment, The Black Wolf, due out in October 2025.
While The Grey Wolf has moments of suspense and flashes of Penny’s talent, it ultimately feels muddled and uninspired. Other diehard fans may appreciate it, but I was disappointed. 3 stars.
RIBBONS OF SCARLET
By Kate Quinn, Stephanie Dray, Laura Kamoie, Sophie Perinot, Heather Webb, E. Knight
A Bold Idea That Fell Flat
⭐⭐⭐ (3 stars)
I had high hopes for Ribbons of Scarlet, an ambitious novel about seven women pivotal to the French Revolution. With six celebrated authors contributing, I expected a richly layered tale of courage, sacrifice, and upheaval. Unfortunately, it didn’t meet my expectations.
This historical novel unites seven real women from all walks of life, including aristocratic Sophie de Grouchy, fruit-seller Louise Audu, pious Princess Élisabeth, and determined Charlotte Corday. Each one fights for her beliefs—Sophie educates peasants, Louise storms Versailles, and Charlotte seeks to rid the Republic of bloodshed. Their stories intersect in intriguing ways as the revolution intensifies, from gilded salons to the crowded streets.
While the premise is fascinating, the execution fell flat. The varying writing styles made the narrative feel disjointed, and the pacing was slow. I never felt immersed in the plot and the characters, though historically significant, didn’t come alive for me. The frequent shifts in style disrupted my reading flow, and I wanted deeper exploration of these figures’ motivations.
Still, the book offers insight into the French Revolution, even if some reviewers have challenged its historical accuracy. It’s startling to see how monarchs justified their excesses and how women had to fight so hard for recognition. I learned a bit about these brave figures in a turbulent era.
In the end, it’s a 3-star read—interesting in parts, but far from the powerful story it could have been.