Something Sinister

Elizabeth is a wife, mother, and real estate agent in southern California. When several murders of people she had contact with take place, it makes her wonder about her connection. She was adopted and has always had a “sixth sense” about things before they happen. Although she had contact with some of the victims and wished their demise---she didn’t kill them. Could she still be guilty somehow? Meanwhile her cousin Ravinia is trying to find her. Ravinia was raised by her Aunt Catherine, Elizabeth's birth mother, at Siren Song in Oregon. It was a lodge far removed from modern life where women with “special powers” were kept safe. Will Ravinia find her before another murder occurs? Pick up Wicked Ways by Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush to find out. DB

So Many Books, So Little Time!

Magpie:Sweets and Savories from Philadelphia's Favorite Pie Boutique by Holly Ricciardi. Now doesn't that title just make you want to pick up this book? Add in the lovely pictures and yes, lets bake pie! Just like the title says, there are sweet and savory pies. In the sweet category, since Thanksgiving is a month or so away, how about cranberry curd mini meringue pies? Or, lemon gingersnap pie, it sounds so good! If you feel compelled to be fancy-schmancy, lime custard pie with basil cream and pistachio praline would definitely impress people. So, not in a sweet mood? If you had fresh tomatoes, tomato cheddar corn pie would be delicious. Dinner? macaroni and cheese potpies would fill them up. Sunday dinner, you couldn't go wrong with chicken biscuit potpies.
All in all a "delicious" read! M.L.

So, maybe you are in the mood for Chinese? Instead of ordering out, try the Lucky Peach 101 Easy Asian Recipes by Peter Meehan. The author prepares you by making an equipment list(very small), ingredient list(exotic, except for Planters peanuts!) This cookbook is divided into creative categories, such as Cold Dishes, Apps and Pickly Bits to begin with, on through Noodles, Rices, Warm Vegetables and the meats. We finish up with Sauces(ginger-scallion) and a modest dessert section...two recipes! Ready to cook?
M.L.

Evergreen Springs

This story was so sweet and a lovely romance to read. Evergreen Springs is the third series by Rayanne Thayne but this book could be read as a standalone. The author has a knack for capturing the essence and spirit of living in a small town. It was a joy to read about the interesting, fun, caring people of Haven Point.
I especially enjoyed reading about Devin and Cole! I did expect more than a few stolen kisses during this book but I still thought it was sweet. The way the town pulled together to help Cole and his children during a difficult time was sweet and touching. *JK*

A "biting" story!

Yes, just for Halloween, a mesmerizing story about Lycanthropes. ( humans that turn into wolves and back) The author, Toby Barlow, is a local man and wrote the book, Sharp Teeth all in prose poetry form, no less. Library Journal says " Down and out in Los Angeles, Anthony reluctantly takes a job as a dogcatcher, though his sympathies lie more with the death-bound dogs in the pound than with his coworkers. When he falls in love with a woman he meets, apparently by accident, he becomes unwittingly drawn into her world--a dark supernatural world of werewolves--and into the lives and ambitions of the rival packs of shapeshifters who haunt the fringes of society. Pulsing with feral intensity, Barlow's debut depicts the lives of seemingly ordinary people who have crossed the boundaries between human and beast and between predator and prey. Written in a free verse style that perfectly complements the action as it moves from slower-paced narratives to short, jagged scenes of graphic violence and heartbreak."

An Enchanting Autumn

Autumn has come to Bascom, NC and magic is in the air. The Waverly sisters, Claire and Sydney and their families, are waiting for first frost. It’s a special time when the mixed-up apple tree in the backyard blooms. The tree represents the family--thought of as “strange” by the town’s residents, due to their special abilities. Each of the family members are hoping that first frost will bring peace and answers to the problems they are facing. Claire has started a candy business and it is taking over her life. Sydney longs for another child. Bay, Sydney’s daughter has a crush on a high school classmate and she can’t think straight. First Frost by Sarah Addison Allen takes place ten years after her debut novel Garden Spells. The Waverly family story continues...DB

Forever with You

Watch out, the second you pick up Forever with You, you are about to embark on an emotional roller coaster to beat all contemporary romance emotional roller coaster. This book was fantastic! From start to finish you are immersed in Stephanie and Nick... the ups, the downs and the laughter that makes fictional characters people. *JK*

Holiday Crafts

The Christmas holidays will be here only too soon.  Get a jump start on some fun hand-made projects that are kid-friendly and really cute with We Love to Craft Christmas by Annabel Wrigley. The book comes with a pattern sheet and includes 17 projects made from paper or fabric. It provides an easy step-by-step guide for several wreath, tree and stocking crafts. Some adult help will be required. Happy Crafting! DB