Michigan Monuments

When America fought its bloodiest war, Michigan sent over 90,000 troops. The First Michigan was the first western regiment to respond to Abraham Lincoln’s call for troops, leading to his famous exclamation “Thank God for Michigan!” History buffs will be delighted with Michigan Civil War Landmarks by David Ingall & Karin Risko. With over 70 monuments in the lower peninsula alone, there is probably one close enough to visit this week. If you are the least bit curious about Michigan’s role in the War Between the States take a look at this book soon! DB

The Unlikely Lady

The Unlikely Lady is another witty, clever, and fun book in the Playful Brides series. I think Valerie Bowman did an excellent job with the characters and plot. You will fall in love with Garrett and Jane. Jane loves to read books and she has no desire to marry and Lord Garrett is a bachelor who enjoys life. Jane and Garrett's arguments are so fun and the chemistry between them is great. This is a delightful and enjoyable read with great characters.

This book is third in the series and can be read without the first and second, but I recommend the entire series. *JK*

Real Tips on Real Estate

Egypt Sherrod knows about Real Estate. She is the host of the popular TV show Property Virgins. If you are thinking about buying a new home or listing a property take a look at her new book, Keep Calm…It’s Just Real Estate: Your No-Stress Guide to Buying a Home. She discusses appraisals, down payments, closings, mortgages and home inspections.  There is even a glossary of real estate terms for real estate rookies.

Another great book that blends real estate and technology is Zillow Talk: The New Rules of Real Estate. Zillow is the leading real estate website and mobile app. Spencer Rascoff and Stan Humphries, the founder and chief economist at Zillow write about how to do your homework and find the right house or get your selling price. There are so many great tips in this book it’s hard to know where to begin! DB

The Girls of Mischief Bay

The Girls of Mischief Bay is a wonderful start to a new series by Susan Mallery. The story features three women who are at different stages of life, yet they have a deep and loving friendship that helps them make it through the tough times. This was a sweet story that has a bit of everything, such as romance, tragedy, humor, fun, sadness, family, cute dog, and a friendship that will persevere. Susan Mallery has taken us on a wonderful journey of life's trials and tribulations, and the friendship that will hold the pieces together. *JK*

Thick and Creamy!

Ice cream? Milkshakes? No, Yogurt Culture: A Global Look How to Make, Bake, Sip, and Chill the World's Creamiest, Healthiest Food. This new book by Cheryl Rule tell you all of the above, with recipes. What can you make with yogurt besides, well, yogurt and fruit, you might ask? How about Oven-Baked Tarragon Scented Salmon, or Roasted Vegetables with Spiced Yogurt, Pistachio, and Lemon? There are also compotes to make as an  accompaniment.
There are instructions  on how to make yogurt which is laughably simple. The global aspects of yogurt is explored as many cultures have yogurt recipes. ML

Pleasured

If you can't get enough of Scottish historical romance, then you don't want to miss the second series of the Secrets of the Loch. Pleasured, which is written by Candace Camp, tells a story of Damon, the Earl of Mardoun, who arrives at his home in Scotland.Widowed with a young daughter, he doesn't expect to be enthralled by a beautiful redhead the minute he arrives. Meg is everything he shouldn't want--an independent woman healer who makes her own rules. The tension and the chemistry between the characters are enjoyable. The setting describes the rural Scotland, standing stones, caves, ancient ruins, and small village. *JK*

Natural Beauty

What could be better than natural beauty products you make at home? Annie Strole, a make-up artist and long-time beauty product lover has compiled 150 recipes for all-natural scrubs, potions, and creams that will be kind to your body and easy on your budget. The names sound so delicious (Oatmeal-Chocolate face treatment) that you may even be tempted to eat some. These mixtures are great for homemade gifts—and just in time for Mother’s Day! Take a look at Homemade Beauty: 150 Simple Beauty Recipes Made From All-Natural Ingredients and get ready to be pampered. DB