Thursday, January 28, 2021

January 28, 2021 - WV Author of the Month


Brooke County Libraries are excited to feature west virginia fiction author Julia Keller. She's a reader favorite of mystery lovers not just the home state we share.



Info and images courtesy of Google, Wikipedia, and Julia Keller's website.

Keller was born in Huntington, West Virginia and lived there throughout her early life. Her father was a mathematics professor who taught at Marshall University. She graduated from Marshall University in Huntington, West Virginia, and earned a doctoral degree in English literature from Ohio State University. Her master's thesis was an analysis of the Henry Roth novel, Call It Sleep.

 

Keller was a Nieman Fellow at Harvard University from the period of 1998 to 1999. She has taught at Princeton University, the University of Notre Dame, and the University of Chicago. She also has served four times as a juror for the Pulitzer Prizes. Her reviews and commentary air on National Public Radio and on The Newshour (PBS).

 

Keller began her career as a journalist as an intern for columnist Jack Anderson. She went on to work for over 25 years as a reporter for many major newspapers, including the Columbus Dispatch, The Daily Independent, and the Chicago Tribune. She joined the staff of the Chicago Tribune in late 1998. She was formerly employed as a cultural critic for the Chicago Tribune, but left her job in 2012 to write full-time.

 




Keller won the annual Pulitzer Prize for Feature Writing for her three-part narrative account of the deadly Utica, Illinois tornado outbreak, published by the Chicago Tribune in April 2004. The jury called it a "gripping, meticulously reconstructed account of a deadly 10-second tornado".[1] The Tribune has won many Pulitzers but Keller's prize was its first win for feature writing.

 

In 2008, Keller wrote a nonfiction book that detailed the cultural impact of the Gatling gun. In 2012, she started publishing a series of mysteries, The Bell Elkins Mysteries, that details a woman's return to Appalachia and the mysteries that abound in her home town. The first book in the series. starred reviews from Publishers Weekly, Library Journal, Kirkus, and Booklist. It was also a winner of the Barry Award for Best First Mystery.


Please feel free to share with us your favorite titles or similar authors below in our comment section here or on of our social media pages. Thanks for checking out little author spotlight this month.

Finally check out below the beautiful cover and info on her latest novel. Released in August of 2019.

What if you lost almost everything that gave your life meaning?

What happens next?

 

That’s the stark question faced by Belfa Elkins in The Cold Way Home, the eighth novel in the critically acclaimed series. Bell has lost her job as prosecutor. She has lost her beloved sister. And for a time, she even lost her freedom.

 

Now she must rebuild her life, step by step, and she must do so in the brooding shadow of the mountains.

 

When she’s asked to help find a missing teenage girl, Bell is thrust into the middle of a savage murder case whose roots reach deep in the haunted soil of Appalachia. Near the ruins of a psychiatric facility where forgotten souls were once at the mercy of a ghastly real-life medical procedure, a dead body is found.

 

The Bell Elkins series is a captivating, lyrical blend of gritty crime fiction and poignant family drama, of topical social issues and timeless human truths. Within one woman’s story, the story of West Virginia—bleak and battered yet beautiful—spreads its wounded radiance like a sunrise over those mountains.g

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

January 26, 2021 - Staff Reviews


 Staff Review


Miss Fix It
By Emma Hart
Release Date: May 1, 2018
Audiobook Available from WV Reads


3 Stars - If you're a sucker for a romance story with adorable little kids, look no further. Likable handy woman Kali's connection with single dad Brantley grows as she is fixing up two child bedrooms. But be aware Emma Hart's work here is definitely not PG. This slow burn romance has a racy side. 

Full disclosure: this was part audio read and part ebook but a seemless transition. I really think this book suffered greatly not having Brantley's point of view. I like my books with a mix of perspectives either in third person or multiple character first person. But Kali's head isn't a bad place to be. I genuienely clicked with her. My bestie and I also love Twizzlers on our girls nights and Friends reruns from way before we were old enough to drink wine. And I loved that she was confident enough not to lower her standards and wanted to wait for the right guy, not just the next best guy to come along. Her way of holding back with Brantlet was understandable but maybe went on a little too long. Elizabeth Hart did a pretty good job with Kali's POV as well.

The romantic comedy genre is booming but I was reading Emma Hart back when she wrote mostly grittier new adult. This one doesn't have quite sparkling banter but plenty of tension between hero and heroine. And the comedy turned a little too much body part humor for me sometimes. The family aspect here was enjoyable too, not just Brantley and the twins who stole the show. But I also enjoyed Kali with her dad and stepmom. I would have liked to see Brantley put his foot down a little more with the kids though. Kali was hardly in a place to become the tough parent, and while he didn't let them run roughshod over her, they apparently did it to him often. And the baby talk was a little much after awhile. But the sweet, steadily building relationship between both Kali and Brantley and Kali and the kids was smile worthy. The last quarter or so of the book was a bit anticlimatic for me, but no real complaints. This was a solidly cute, fun read start to finish.

(NS)

Monday, January 25, 2021

January 25, 2021 - New Arrivals

January 25, 2021

Adult Fiction

Daylight by David Baldacci.

FBI Agent Atlee Pine's search for her sister Mercy clashes with military investigator John Puller's high-stakes case, leading them both deep into a global conspiracy -- from which neither of them will escape unscathed. For many long years, Atlee Pine was tormented by uncertainty after her twin sister, Mercy, was abducted at the age of six and never seen again. Now, just as Atlee is pressured to end her investigation into Mercy's disappearance, she finally gets her most promising breakthrough yet: the identity of her sister's kidnapper, Ito Vincenzo. With time running out, Atlee and her assistant Carol Blum race to Vincenzo's last known location in Trenton, New Jersey -- and unknowingly stumble straight into John Puller's case, blowing his arrest during a drug ring investigation involving a military installation. Stunningly, Pine and Puller's joint investigation uncovers a connection between Vincenzo's family and a breathtaking scheme that strikes at the very heart of global democracy. Peeling back the layers of deceit, lies and cover-ups, Atlee finally discovers the truth about what happened to Mercy. And that truth will shock Pine to her very core.

 

Piece of My Heart by Mary Higgins Clark.

“Television producer Laurie Moran and her fiancée, Alex Buckley, the former host of her investigative television show, are just days away from their mid-summer wedding, when things take a dark turn. Alex’s seven-year-old nephew, Johnny, vanishes from the beach. A search party begins and witnesses recall Johnny playing in the water and collecting shells behind the beach shack, but no one remembers seeing him after the morning. As the sun sets, Johnny’s skim board washes up to shore, and everyone realizes that he could be anywhere, even under water.” – Amazon.com

 

Marauder by Clive Cussler.

“While interrupting an attack on a Kuwaiti oil tanker, Juan Cabrillo and his team discover something even more dangerous: a ruthless billionaire's dying wish has allowed a paralyzing chemical to end up in the hands of a terrorist group. When an Oregon crew member falls victim to the poison, Juan Cabrillo will stop at nothing to find an antidote before it is too late. He and his team must connect an ancient mystery with a cunning modern enemy in order to save millions of innocent lives, including their own.” – Amazon.com

 

Adult Non-Fiction

An Unexpected Cookbook by Chris-Rachael Oseland.

Recipes for each of the seven Hobbit meals of breakfast, second breakfast, elevenses, luncheon, afternoon tea, dinner, and supper.

 

Reconsidering Reagan by Daniel S. Lucks.

"This book documents Reagan's childhood, political career, and presidency, arguing that Reagan compiled the worst civil rights record of any President since the 1920s; it explores his blithe indifference to the legacy of slavery, assaults on Affirmative Action and Voting Rights, a war on Drugs that ensnared the poor and people of color leading to the carceral state, and his hostility to the black freedom struggle."-- Provided by publisher

 

Easy/Juvenile/Young Adult/Graphic Novel

Over and Under the Snow by Kate Messner. E

Over the snow, the world is hushed and white. But under the snow lies a secret world of squirrels and snow hares, bears and bullfrogs, and many other animals making their winter home under the snow. This beloved nonfiction picture book exploring the subnivean zone reveals the tunnels and caves formed beneath the snow but over the ground, where many kinds of animals live through the winter, safe and warm, awake and busy, but hidden beneath the snow. – Amazon.com

 

Librarians by Emily Raij. JNF

"Librarians help people find the information they need. They work both in the public eye and behind the scenes. Give readers the inside scoop on what it's like to have the job of a librarian. Readers will learn about different types of librarians, the tools they use, and how people get this exciting, fast-paced job."-- Provided by publisher.


Brooke County Public Libraries    Wellsburg (304) 737-1551    Follansbee (304) 527-0860

Friday, January 22, 2021

January 22, 2021 - A Book & A Recipe

Who is up for some delicious donut pudding to warm up a wintery day?


This month's book and recipe combination comes straight from lovable romance heroine Blair Mallory herself. This dessert was a feature in Linda Howard's romantic suspense novel Drop Dead Gorgeous, the second Blair Mallory book. This title is available in multiple formats from Brooke County libraries so check it out!


As always, please feel free to let us know that you tried this out, either here in the comments or on one of our social media pages. We would love to hear about it!

Without further babbling from us... here's Blair!


Blair’s Krispy Kreme Doughnut Bread Pudding


  There’s, like, a hundred different versions of this recipe. I only make it for special occasions or when I want to suck up to somebody, because it’s so sweet it makes your teeth hurt. And I don’t put raisins in my bread pudding; raisins are a Yankee thing. I think they look like bugs.

  To begin with, use a 13 x 9-inch glass pan. The glass is so the pudding won’t stick. If you want to use a disposable aluminum pan, then I guess it doesn’t matter if the pudding sticks.

  Anyway, preheat the oven to 350. That’s Fahrenheit. I don’t do Kelvin or Celsius because they’re just weird.

  Here’s what you need:

  2 dozen Krispy Kreme glazed doughnuts, torn into little chunks. Actually, I like the crullers better than the glazed doughnuts, because the texture seems more bread-pudding-like, but go with your favorite. Put the chunks in a large bowl.

  3 eggs, beaten. You may like yours merely subdued, but I want mine beaten. Don’t add them to the doughnuts yet.

  1 can sweetened condensed milk. Add to eggs. Beat together.

  Vanilla flavoring to taste. Add to milk and egg mixture. Use 1 teaspoon if you don’t like a strong vanilla taste, add more if you do. The whole point of this is to make the bread pudding the way you like it.

  ½ stick melted butter

  Cinnamon to taste. It takes way more cinnamon than you probably expect, but start out with a little and keep adding until it tastes right.

  Pour all this into the bowl of doughnut chunks, and stir. It’ll be too dry, because now you have to make a choice. You can either put in a can of fruit cocktail, with the juice, which gives the pudding enough moisture—and in a weird way the fruit cocktail cuts down on the sweetness—or, if the idea of fruit cocktail in a bread pudding gives you the heebie-jeebies, just start adding milk, a little at a time, and stirring it in, until the texture seems right to you, not so juicy that it’s soup but moist enough that it’s kind of like a lumpy cake batter.

  Now you have another choice to make: chopped pecans, or no chopped pecans. I love it with the pecans. If you decide to use them, add 1 cup to the mixture and stir well.

  You can also add a little nutmeg, about 1 teaspoon, if you like. I usually don’t.

  Pour into pan and bake for 30 minutes. Check with a toothpick to see if it’s done. If it isn’t, let it cook for another five minutes and check it again. Ovens are weird; what’s 350 on mine might be 342 on someone else’s. And I don’t get the altitude thing at all.

  Take it out and let it cool. Add a glaze if you like, then dig in. If you don’t want to fool with a glaze but the pudding looks naked with nothing on top, then buy some cans of ready-made frosting and put it on. Talk about sugar overload. Whoa, Mama. If you want to make a glaze, here are two recipes:

  Simple Sugar Glaze

  2 cups confectioners’ sugar

  3 to 4 tablespoons milk or water

  Mix together, and beat until it becomes smooth and pourable. Drizzle over the bread pudding. If this isn’t enough, make more.

  Buttermilk Glaze

  ¼ cup buttermilk

  ½ cup sugar

  ¼ teaspoon soda

  1½ teaspoons cornstarch

  ¼ cup margarine

  1½ teaspoons vanilla extract

  Combine first five ingredients in a saucepan, bring to a boil, remove from heat. Cool slightly, then stir in the vanilla. Pour over the pudding.

  That’s it. Have fun! —Blair


*Note images and recipe do not belong to BCPL. They are courtesy of Google Images and Overdrive media.

Check out Drop Dead Gorgeous on our Ebook site WV Reads or in our physical locations!




Thursday, January 21, 2021

January 21, 2021 - Staff Reviews


Twenty
By James Grippando
Release Date: January 5, 2021
Ebook Available from WV Reads!


4.5 Stars! - An excellent edition to Grippando's long running Jack Swyteck series. This fast paced entry has a little of everything from legal battles to a whodunit mystery. Jack's experience and skills are put to the test when coming to the defense of a teenager caught in a tangled web of violence and lies. I barely put this book down.

I think fans of the series and those new to it can it enjoy it equally, but it's hard for me to view it from a new perspective. Or talk without spoilers. This was very refreshing in comparison to probably the last three books, maybe even five. Jack is front and center again, leading every chapter. And while a few far fetched details or bouts of luck pop up, this has to be his strongest performance as a defense attorney/sleuth in awhile. I was a bit surprised the shooting from the description only lasted the first fourteen or so pages, it did serve as a great kickstart. And finally Jack had a good chance to stand for what he believes in again, even if some of his beliefs are shaken.

This author has a few novels as close to perfect as I can think of, and this one falls just short in a few ways. Some fans of his side characters will probably have mixed feelings. Andie's not quite her usual kickass self. Theo's wise cracks are fewer. And Hannah and Abuela don't really get their chance to shine. Harry was missing in this one. Sometimes in the series focused highly on the life and families of Jack's client, the killer, or prosectuor. (Speaking of, it was cool to see Abe Beckman again.) I think there was room for a couple scenes for a new reader to get a better picture of Jack's family, career, and great sense of humor. I've wondered before if this series has been victim to page count cuts. But this was a very action packed and serious novel that didn't leave a lot of room for banter. It was a thrill ride from start to finish and I think one of the better books from this later half of the series.

(NS)


 

Tuesday, January 19, 2021

January 19, 2021 - Staff Reviews

The Virgin and The Rogue

By Sophie Jordan

Release Date: April 28, 2020
Ebook Available from WV Reads!


2.5 Stars - An interesting and somewhat unique romance from the Rogue series. Charlotte and Kingston make a formidable and enteraining pair. But a few description details threw me for a loop once reading, and I had some hang ups while enjoying this story. Jordan's characters are likable as always though. A quick and fun historical, possibly something a bit quirky for fans of the genre.

Possibly, I just have enjoyed Jordan's contemporary romances more. If I've read her historicals before, I simply don't rememebe. Kingston was not quite as hollow and/or broody as many historical romance "rogues". His concern for Charlotte came through as genuiene and sweet. Charlotte I struggled with more, perhaps because the description made me think I would relate as a boring, practical middle sister. I didn't see much evidence of that. Charlotte was certainly intriguing and had few dull moments in this story! Also the book was not tagged as a series and I did feel a little lost in relation to Charlotte's and her sisters and their relationships.

The next part might be considered spoiler-y. But I think I need to talk about it. The beginning third of so of the book focuses on Charlotte's reaction to an exlir and the subsequent results. The potion concocted for her by her sister unintentionally is portrayed as similar to a college girl popping ecstasy or something in a night club and jumping the next man she dirty dances with. But honestly, this whole deal confused me. Charlotte feels miserable physically but she can't resist (literally) Kingston? She and Kingston both reign in their self control just enough to keep her a virgin but go their semi separate ways? Not to mention the way her POV was written has me dizzy. This weird description style happened again when she has an anxiety attack trying on her wedding dress. Also how were we to believe Charlotte was mousy and boring? She tells us. Multiple times. I wanted to appreciate her struggle to break out of her logical side and fall in love with Kingston. But, I didn't really get the connection until long into the book.

(NS)

Monday, January 18, 2021

January 18, 2021 - New Arrivals

January 18, 2021

Adult Fiction

Near Dark by Brad Thor.

The world’s largest bounty has just been placed upon America’s top spy. His only hope for survival is to outwit, outrun, and outlast his enemies long enough to get to the truth. But for Scot Harvath to accomplish his most dangerous mission ever—one that has already claimed the lives of the people closest to him, including his new wife—he’s going to need help—a lot of it. Not knowing whom he can trust, Harvath finds an unlikely ally in Norwegian intelligence operative Sølvi Kolstad. Just as smart, just as deadly, and just as determined, she not only has the skills, but also the broken, troubled past to match Harvath’s own.

 

Moonflower Murders by Anthony Horowitz.

"Farlingaye Hall is a beautiful hotel in Suffolk on the east coast of England. Unfortunately, it is also the site of the brutal murder of Frank Parris, a retired advertising executive. Stefan Codrescu, a Romanian maintenance man, is arrested after police find blood spatter on his clothes and bed linen. He is found guilty and spends eight years in prison. It appears an open and shut case, but there is more than meets the eye. Alan Conway, the late author of the fictional Magpie Murders, knew Frank Parris and once visited Farlingaye Hall. Conway based Atticus Pund Takes the Cake, the third book in his detective series, on the hotel. Cecily Treherne, the daughter of the hotel owner, read the book and believes the truth of Stefan's innocence is found in its pages. But now...she has disappeared. Conway's former editor Susan Ryeland leaves her own hotel in Crete and travels to Suffolk to investigate the murder and Treherne's disappearance."-- Provided by publisher.

 

Fortune and Glory by Janet Evanovich.
"The twenty-seventh entry in the #1 New York Times bestselling series isn't just the biggest case of Stephanie Plum's career. It's the adventure of a lifetime. When Stephanie's beloved Grandma Mazur's new husband died on their wedding night, the only thing he left her was a beat-up old easy chair...and the keys to a life-changing fortune. But as Stephanie and Grandma Mazur search for Jimmy Rosolli's treasure, they discover that they're not the only ones on the hunt. Two dangerous enemies from the past stand in their way-along with a new adversary who's even more formidable: Gabriela Rose, a dark-eyed beauty from Little Havana with a taste for designer clothes. She's also a soldier of fortune, a gourmet cook, an expert in firearms and mixed martial arts-and someone who's about to give Stephanie a real run for her money. Stephanie may be in over her head, but she's got two things that Gabriela doesn't: an unbreakable bond with her family and a stubborn streak that will never let her quit. She'll need both to survive because this search for "fortune and glory" will turn into a desperate race against time with more on the line than ever before. Because even as she searches for the treasure and fights to protect her Grandma Mazur, her own deepest feelings will be tested-as Stephanie could finally be forced to choose between Joe Morelli and Ranger."-- Provided by publisher.

 

Adult Non-Fiction

How I Learned I’m Old by Romney S. Humphrey.

"How I Learned I’m Old is a collection of humorous essays embedded with a smattering of serious insights. Together, they tell the tale of about what happens when middle age mysteriously departs and old age claims its territory. For this country's 38 million BABY BOOMERS, topics like 'The New Party Game' (counting wrinkles on other women's faces), the insulting arrival of chin hairs and the sudden inability to monitor personal opinions in the presence of strangers have universal appeal. So do chapters about 'Mean Girls' in their seventies and the emotional legacy of mothers. The book is divided into sections; "Mind" "Body" and "Spirit". Always with a comical overtone, it also delves into the more important benefits and realizations of the aging process; what friends teach us by example, who we miss most when they're gone and which values really matter."--Amazon.com.

 

From the Other Side of the Tracks by David K. Farley.

"From the Other Side of the Tracks is a story about railroading that few in the public have knowledge of. It is filled with uncommon, unique experiences. The author has traveled extensively in West Virginia, Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Kentucky during his two-decade long career in the industry, gathering stories along the way. David K. Farley experienced many fun, interesting, and rare sights. From the Other Side of the Tracks details unforgettable community events, safety outreaches, once in a lifetime train rides, and an insider account of local railroad operations from the perspective of someone who has worked as a manager and hourly employee for the two Class One railroads that operate in the Eastern United States." -- Provided by Amazon.com.

 

Easy/Juvenile/Young Adult/Graphic Novel

Displacement by Kiku Hughes. YA GN

"Kiku is on vacation in San Francisco when suddenly she finds herself displaced to the 1940s Japanese-American internment camp that her late grandmother, Ernestina, was forcibly relocated to during World War II. These displacements keep occurring until Kiku finds herself stuck back in time. Living alongside her young grandmother and other Japanese-American citizens in internment camps, Kiku gets the education she never received in history class. She witnesses the lives of Japanese-Americans who were denied their civil liberties and suffered greatly, but managed to cultivate community and commit acts of resistance in order to survive."--Publisher's website.


Vicious Spirits by Kat Cho. YA

"After the events of Wicked Fox, Somin is ready to help her friends pick up the pieces of their broken lives and heal. But Jihoon is still grieving the loss of his grandmother, and Miyoung is distant as she grieves over her motheŕђةs death and learns to live without her fox bead. The only one who seems ready to move forward is their not-so-favorite dokkaebi, Junu. Somin and Junu didńђةt exactly hit it off when they first met. Somin thought he was an arrogant self-serving, conman. Junu was, at first, amused by her hostility toward him until he found himself inexplicably drawn to her. Somin couldńђةt deny the heat of their attraction. But as the two try to figure out what could be between them, they discover their troubles areńђةt over after all. The loss of Miyounǵђةs fox bead has caused a tear between the world of the living and the world of the dead, and ghosts are suddenly flooding the streets of Seoul. The only way to repair the breach is to find the missing fox bead or for Miyoung to pay with her life. With few options remaining, Junu has an idea but it might require the ultimate sacrifice. In usual fashion, Somin may have a thing or two to say about that."-- Provided by publisher.


Brooke County Public Libraries    Wellsburg (304) 737-1551    Follansbee (304) 527-0860

Friday, January 15, 2021

January 15, 2021 - BCPL Resume Tips




Hello, job seekers!

Brooke County Libraries brings you our resume creation tip #3.

Add an objective or goal.

Employers love to hear your short term interests. This is an excellent way to state your intentions, and there's no need for you to get specific.


A short and simple objective works best, no need to become wordy or bog down the top of your resume (and that is where it should be, near the top.) This small addition can help set you apart from other candidates and can create a personal touch.

Here are a few examples of a strong objective or goal to list.

"I am seeking a new team where I can share my ideas and skills with a new group of people."

"I am seeking a full time position where I can be an asset to a loyal employer."

"I am looking for a fresh and creative work environment where I can express myself and expand my experience and skills."

"I'm looking for a customer service position where I can meet and/or talk with new people every day."

"I am seeking employment with an established company that will value my years of experience and expertise, while helping me continue to learn."


 

Thursday, January 14, 2021

January 14, 2021 - BCPL Book Club Preview

The Brooke County public libraries are excited to share a glimpse of the first book club discussion of 2021!

We will be featuring the acclaimed story Becoming by Michelle Obama. Our discussion will next place Thursday January 28th. Please just our newsletter posts for more information. We'd love for you to join in!

 


In a life filled with meaning and accomplishment, Michelle Obama has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era. As First Lady of the United States of America—the first African American to serve in that role—she helped create the most welcoming and inclusive White House in history, while also establishing herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls in the U.S. and around the world, dramatically changing the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lives, and standing with her husband as he led America through some of its most harrowing moments

About the author -


Michelle Robinson Obama served as First Lady of the United States from 2009 to 2017. A graduate of Princeton University and Harvard Law School, Mrs. Obama started her career as an attorney at the Chicago law firm Sidley & Austin, where she met her future husband, Barack Obama. She later worked in the Chicago mayor's office, at the University of Chicago, and at the University of Chicago Medical Center. Mrs. Obama also founded the Chicago chapter of Public Allies, an organization that prepares young people for careers in public service.

Tuesday, January 12, 2021

January 12, 2021 - Staff Reviews


 Fortune and Glory

By Janet Evanovich
Release Date: November 3, 2020
Audiobook Available from WV Reads!


3 Stars - The new Plum novel fell just short of my expectations. The punchy dialouge and humor are still here, and Stephanie's the same as ever. Though as many of us long time fans have been saying, the latter may be a problem. Evanovich has managed to weave a slightly different tale in this one with the treasure hunt afoot, giving a new purpose to our heroine and her quirky counterparts. King narrates well as always.

I actually was excited for 27 because 26 was more like the Plum novels of old. There wasn't a plethora of reality shows or zombies, etc. And I thought the treasure hunt aspect was introduced through Grandma Mazur in a smart and at least semi plausible way. But as usual, the beginning of this book felt like about 10 steps back from where the previous ended. Steph and Lula are trolling for weird fugitives and talking a bit too bluntly about body parts. 

A few scenes felt out of place, as if maybe intended for the previous book and carried over (like the tunnel early on). And this book had more suspense scenes being squashed by humor. Sometimes it's okay, but why make scary bad guys if are also major losers? Remember back in the early days of Plum when there was danger? Speaking of danger, Stephanie early on saying how much she misses Morelli and then hopping in bed with Ranger is just gross. The last couple books where she and Morelli had just seemed to have decided to be commitment phobic together were better. This entry felt again like Evanovich pandering to keep all fans happy by pulling out all the old tricks. And I no longer have much hope for the new direction it seemed we were headed with this series. Highlights were the scene at the Margo, Stephanie's self-appointed bodyguard, the funeral, and of course the food.

(NS)

Monday, January 11, 2021

January 11, 2021 - New Arrivals

January 11, 2021

Adult Fiction

Hidden in Plain Sight by Jeffrey Archer.

“William Warwick has been promoted to Detective Sergeant, but his promotion means that he, along with the rest of his team, have been reassigned to the Drugs Squad. They are immediately tasked with apprehending Ahmed Rashedi, a notorious drug dealer, who operates his extensive network out of South London. As the investigation progresses, William runs into enemies old and new: Adrian Heath, from his school days, now a street dealer who he convinces to turn informer; and financier Miles Faulkner, who makes a mistake that could finally see him put behind bars. Meanwhile, William and his fiancée Beth enjoy making preparations for their upcoming wedding, though an unpleasant surprise awaits them at the altar. As William's team closes the net around a criminal network like none they have ever faced before, he devises a trap they would never expect, one that is hidden in plain sight . . . "-- Provided by publisher.

 

In the Lion’s Den by Barbara Taylor.

“James Lionel Falconer has risen quickly from a mere shop worker to being the right-hand man of Henry Malvern, head of the most prestigious shipping company in London. With Malvern's daughter Alexis running away to the country after a terrible tragedy and refusing to return, James' ascent to head of the company seems inevitable. But even a charmed life like James' is not without its setbacks. A terrible fire threatens to end his merchant career before it's had a chance to truly begin. Mrs. Ward, James' former paramour, has a secret that could change his life forever. And his distaste for Alexis Malvern is slowly growing into feelings of quite a different sort. Can James continue to be the master of his own fate, or will all of his charm, intelligence, and wit finally fail him when he has to enter the lion's den?” – Provided by publisher.

 

The End of Her by Shari Lapena.

In upstate New York, Stephanie and Patrick are adjusting to life with their colicky twin babies. The girls are a handful, but Stephanie doesn't mind being a stay-at-home mom, taking care of them. When a woman from Patrick's past drops in on them unexpectedly, raising questions about his late first wife, Stephanie supports her husband wholeheartedly. But, as their marriage crumbles, Stephanie feels herself coming unglued, and soon she isn't sure who to believe.

 

Adult Non-Fiction

A Promised Land by Barack Obama.

Obama tells the story of his improbable odyssey from young man searching for his identity to leader of the free world, describing in strikingly personal detail both his political education and the landmark moments of the first term of his historic presidency--a time of dramatic transformation and turmoil.

 

My Own Words by Ruth Bader Ginsburg.

"The first book from Ruth Bader Ginsburg since becoming a Supreme Court Justice in 1993--a witty, engaging, serious, and playful collection of writings and speeches from the woman who has had a powerful and enduring influence on law, women's rights, and popular culture. My Own Words is a selection of writings and speeches by Justice Ginsburg on wide-ranging topics, including gender equality, the workways of the Supreme Court, on being Jewish, on law and lawyers in opera, and on the value of looking beyond US shores when interpreting the US Constitution. Throughout her life Justice Ginsburg has been (and continues to be) a prolific writer and public speaker. This book contains a sampling, selected by Justice Ginsburg and her authorized biographers Mary Hartnett and Wendy W. Williams. Justice Ginsburg has written an Introduction to the book, and Hartnett and Williams introduce each chapter, giving biographical context and quotes gleaned from hundreds of interviews they have conducted. This is a fascinating glimpse into the life of one of America's most influential women."-- Provided by publisher.

 

Easy/Juvenile/Young Adult/Graphic Novel

The Ickabog by J.K. Rowling. J

"As the legend of the fearsome Ickabog spreads terror in the peaceful kingdom of Cornucopia, best friends Bert and Daisy set out to discover the truth and bring happiness back to the kingdom. But even in this happy kingdom, a monster lurks. Legend tells of a fearsome creature living far to the north in the Marshlands... the Ickabog. Some say it breathes fire, spits poison, and roars through the mist as it carries off wayward sheep and children alike. Some say it's just a myth... And when that myth takes on a life of its own, casting a shadow over the kingdom, two children - best friends Bert and Daisy - embark on a great adventure to untangle the truth and find out where the real monster lies, bringing hope and happiness to Cornucopia once more."—Provided by publisher.


Star Daughter by Shveta Thakrar. YA

“The daughter of a star and a mortal, Sheetal is used to keeping secrets. Pretending to be “normal.” But when an accidental flare of her starfire puts her human father in the hospital, Sheetal needs a full star’s help to heal him. A star like her mother, who returned to the sky long ago. Sheetal’s quest to save her father will take her to a celestial court of shining wonders and dark shadows, where she must take the stage as her family’s champion in a competition to decide the next ruling house of the heavens—and win, or risk never returning to Earth at all.”  – Amazon.com


Brooke County Public Libraries    Wellsburg (304) 737-1551    Follansbee (304) 527-0860

Thursday, January 7, 2021

January 7th, 2021 - Winter Reads

Ready to hunker down with some great books? We are at Brooke County Libraries! One of the best things about snow is the excuse for staying in to read.

Check out some of our winter fiction novels available either at Brooke County or Follansbee Public libraries in print or Ebook form.







Winter Loon by Susan Bernard

A haunting debut novel about family and sacrifice, Winter Loon reminds us of how great a burden the past can be, the toll it exacts, and the freedom that comes from letting it go.

 




Depth of Winter by Craig Johnson

Welcome to Walt Longmire's worst nightmare. In Craig Johnson's latest mystery, Depth of Winter, an international hit man and the head of one of the most vicious drug cartels in Mexico has kidnapped Walt's beloved daughter, Cady, to auction her off to his worst enemies, of which there are many.





Wyoming Winter by Diana Palmer

Cultivating his vast Wyoming ranch is all security expert J. C. Calhoun wants. His land is the only thing the betrayed rancher can trust in after discovering his fiancée was pregnant by another man. But all J.C. holds dear becomes compromised when a lost little girl leads him to Colie Jackson





Winter Storms by Erin Hilderbrand

Gather under the mistletoe for one last round of carolling with the Quinn family in this heartwarming conclusion to Elin Hilderbrand's bestselling Winter Street Trilogy.Some of the stormy weather of the past few seasons seems to have finally lifted for the Quinns.





Shield of Winter by Nalini Singh

Assassin. Soldier. Arrow. That is who Vasic is, who he will always be. His soul drenched in blood, his conscience heavy with the weight of all he's done, he exists in the shadows, far from the hope his people can almost touch - if only they do not first drown in the murderous insanity of a lethal contagion.





A Week in Winter by Maeve Binchy

Stoneybridge is a small town on the west coast of Ireland where all the families know one another. When Chicky Starr decides to take an old, decaying mansion set high on the cliffs overlooking the windswept Atlantic Ocean and turn it into a restful place for a holiday by the sea, everyone thinks she is crazy. 






The Silence of Winter by Wanda Brunstetter

Meredith anxiously waits to hear that Luke has arrived safely in Indiana for a new job opportunity. . .but Luke’s call never comes. Instead, Meredith receives news that tears her heart to shreds and leaves her just barely living—and only for the sake of the little one growing within her.






The Winter Palace by Eva Stachniak

tells the epic story of Catherine the Great’s improbable rise to power—as seen through the ever-watchful eyes of an all-but-invisible servant close to the throne.




Winter of the World by Ken Follett

second book in the Century Trilogy. Revolving about a family saga that covers the interrelated experiences of American, Russian, German and British families during the 20th century.





The Alpine Winter by Mary Daheim

But there’s still a newspaper to put out on the sometimes snowy and almost always wet streets of Alpine. It doesn’t buoy Emma’s spirits when Leo and Vida both leave town for the Christmas weekend—and Mitch Laskey suddenly goes AWOL. Emma’s only source of comfort is Sheriff Milo Dodge






Winter Bloom by Tara Heavey

Belonging to an iron-willed elderly lady named Mrs. Prendergast, who is rumored to have murdered and buried her husband there, the garden draws Eva Madigan, a young mother struggling to move on from the pain of her past.





Winter Garden by Kristen Hannah

Meredith and Nina Whitson are as different as sisters can be. One stayed at home to raise her children and manage the family apple orchard; the other followed a dream and traveled the world to become a famous photojournalist. But when their beloved father falls ill, Meredith and Nina find themselves together again





Winter Study by Nevada Barr

Soon after Anna Pigeon joins the famed wolf study team of Isle Royale National Park in the middle of Lake Superior, the wolf packs begin to behave in peculiar ways. Giant wolf prints are found, and Anna spies the form of a great wolf from a surveillance plane.





The Winter Lodge by Susan Wiggs

Discover the magic and mystery of love as Susan Wiggs sweeps you away to the sparkling splendour of the Catskills, where old secrets are revealed and romance blooms, even on the coldest days of winter On the longest night of the year, Jenny Majesky loses everything.





Winter Prey by John Sandford

Lucas Davenport thriller by internationally bestselling novelist John Sandford The Iceman crept into the house on the edge of the lake. He killed the father first. Then the mother and child.





Winter Moon by Dean Koontz

In Los Angeles, a hot Hollywood director, high on PCP, turns a city street into a fiery apocalypse. His wife and his child are left to fend for themselves against both criminals that control an increasingly violent city and the dead director's cult of fanatic fans.





A Warmth in Winter by Lori Copeland & Angela Hunt

The story centers around Vernie Bidderman, owner of Mooseleuk Mercantile and Salt Gribbon, the lighthouse operator, who despite the vast differences in their struggles are being taught about the ultimate failure and frustration of self-reliance.