Food and Murder!

Tannie Marie is a middle-aged widow who likes to cook. She writes a food column for the local paper until they decide to switch her to an advice column. Tannie Marie feels like good food is the answer to everything, so she gives people recipes along with advice. When a woman who has written to her is murdered, she becomes entwined in the investigation along with a handsome detective.  Sally Andrew's book Recipes For Love and Murder takes place in rural South Africa, so the story is full of local color and recipes. Tannie Marie is sweet and determined, a character to love! ML

Michigan Misfits

If you enjoy history and are intrigued with the Wild West, check out Michigan Rogues,  Desperados & Cut-throats: A Gallery of 19th Century Miscreants by Tom Powers. The lumbering era in Michigan bred some rough characters. Every area seemed to have its share of crooks and thieves. The stories are real tales of life on the Michigan frontier.

Some of the stand-outs include a pirate, a train robber and an ogre from the U.P. Truth is stranger than fiction!  DB

Must Try DIY

Looking for a project? Check out  150 Quick & Easy Furniture Projects by Pamela Porter. This colorful book is chock-full of ideas that you can do in about a weekend. Stencil a coffee table, create a cool work space or make a unique bench! You can recycle, re-purpose, upholster and update your furniture with easy and time saving tips. When it comes to DIY—Better Homes and Gardens is the best! DB