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Saint Paul Public Library
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Added Oct 27, 2019
Midnight at the Bright Ideas BookstoreMidnight at the Bright Ideas Bookstore, BookA Novel
by Sullivan, MatthewBook - 2017Book, 2017
vkreads's rating:
Added Oct 27, 2019
Comment:
2.5 stars
The plot did not engage my interest; I felt minimal connection of interest toward the main characters because the author created too much enigma and "shadowed silence" too early in the story....and...Lydia's story... rather scary. etc. etc.2.5 stars
The plot did not engage my interest; I felt minimal connection of interest toward the main characters because the author created too much enigma and "shadowed silence" too early in the story....and...Lydia's story... rather scary. etc.…
The Lacemaker's SecretThe Lacemaker's Secret, BookA Chloe Ellefson Mystery
by Ernst, KathleenBook - 2018 | First EditionBook, 2018. First Edition
vkreads's rating:
Added Oct 22, 2019
Comment:
This is the 9th title in the series of 10 titles thru yr 2020.
Once again, Kathleen Ernst's research into the 19th and 20th century historical facts of a farming region within Wisconsin, near the Green Bay area, is a rich learning experience for the reader.
The immigrant settlers from Belgium to this area of Wisconsin pre-Civil War, were shocked to see the presence of heavy forestry in the land spaces they'd purchased. Farming can't be done in a forest. And then there's ......The Civil War...the Great Fire...World War I...
The talents, artistry, discipline, and skills of women and girls learning to "make beautiful lace" in Belgium's tradition, is a powerful impetus of cultural preservation, and thru this novel, the reader is welcomed into a growing appreciation for its artistry. The love created by working hands.
Very good read. As usual. Ernst knows what she'd doing, and keeps the reader engaged.This is the 9th title in the series of 10 titles thru yr 2020.
Once again, Kathleen Ernst's research into the 19th and 20th century historical facts of a farming region within Wisconsin, near the Green Bay area, is a rich learning experience for…
Maybe You Should Talk to SomeoneMaybe You Should Talk to Someone, BookA Therapist, HER Therapist, and Our Lives Revealed
by Gottlieb, LoriBook - 2019Book, 2019
vkreads's rating:
Added Oct 20, 2019
Comment:
This autobiography reads like a page turning novel. Wow.
Dynamic writing style; humor, insight, real life considerations...???who would think a book of nonfiction autobiography about the process of therapy and being a therapist, could be so engaging and insightful?
And so I say, ... excellent...excellent...excellent.
And a reminder ...... that when we learn to truly ask questions of ourselves, we will learn to communicate better with other people --- because we're comfortable asking questions.
This book is a passage into seeing some of the energy and processes involvement in any therapeutic relationship...it gives hope. Hope is precious.This autobiography reads like a page turning novel. Wow.
Dynamic writing style; humor, insight, real life considerations...???who would think a book of nonfiction autobiography about the process of therapy and being a therapist, could be so…
The Mistletoe MatchmakerThe Mistletoe Matchmaker, BookA Novel
by Hayes-McCoy, FelicityBook - 2019 | First U.S. editionBook, 2019. First U.S. edition
Added Oct 16, 2019
Comment:
Mistletoe Matchmaker is the 3rd and most recent yr 2019 book in the Finfarran Peninsula series - by Irish born author Felicity Hayes-McCoy. (see also, her 5 nonfiction books) if you'd like to learn more about "life in Ireland."
series sequence -- first was Library at the Edge of the World, (excellent)
2nd was Summer at the Garden Cafe.
4th bk after Mistletoe Matchmaker -- is The Month of Borrowed Dreams, continuing with librarian Hannah Casey and then
The Transatlantic Book Club / yr 2019, and then yr 2020, The Lissbeg Library Lady.
The title, Mistletoe Matchmaker, only reflects the village project to create a unique Christmas themed event; it's not a title I would have granted.
Reading MM was a pleasant experience; I cherish the author's vivid descriptions of the natural world, and the near the end description of stars in the cold winter sky are so very wonderful.Mistletoe Matchmaker is the 3rd and most recent yr 2019 book in the Finfarran Peninsula series - by Irish born author Felicity Hayes-McCoy. (see also, her 5 nonfiction books) if you'd like to learn more about "life in Ireland."
series sequence --…
Touch-me-notTouch-me-not, BookA Martha's Vineyard Mystery
by Riggs, CynthiaBook - 2010 | 1st edBook, 2010. 1st ed
Added Oct 10, 2019
Comment:
9th title in the series of 14 titles thru yr 2014
Well. This plot was different than preceding stories because...we find out in the early chapters, who did the act of murder, upon whom. The why of the murder shows as the plot unfolds.
I read this Riggs' series set on Martha's Vineyard island because the plot always continues most, many, ----- of the characters from its earlier series titles, and, ---------I find it enjoyable to continue "moving along" with the characters' personalities. For example, Howland the residing, kind of undercover FBI agent, has become more of a real-life person; Casey the Police Chief is kind of a character, -------especially when Victoria's actions aggravate her "police chief" "Victoria, why did you do that?" attitudes.
The seasonal details and descriptions are always a pleasant addition. The author lives on Martha's Vineyard island, as has her family for many preceding generations. Riggs knows the locale which seems near and dear to her heart.9th title in the series of 14 titles thru yr 2014
Well. This plot was different than preceding stories because...we find out in the early chapters, who did the act of murder, upon whom. The why of the murder shows as the plot unfolds.
I read…
Night of MiraclesNight of Miracles, BookA Novel
by Berg, ElizabethBook - 2018 | First editionBook, 2018. First edition
Added Oct 07, 2019
Comment:
Please first read Berg's novel, The Story of Arthur Truluv -- before reading Night of Miracles.
Night of Miracles is the "after" story presented in The Story of Arthur Truluv.
Berg is a lovely writer; sometimes funny too. Many of her novels/books have been sold worldwide, translated into many languages. Berg's novels are "easy reading" while also including authentic human responses to life.
Her characters, setting, tone of voices of the characters...in a way, I was reminded of the series set in Minnesota small town, written by Jon Hassler ... Staggeford series. However, Berg's writing is just "that much richer" than that of Hassler's.Please first read Berg's novel, The Story of Arthur Truluv -- before reading Night of Miracles.
Night of Miracles is the "after" story presented in The Story of Arthur Truluv.
Berg is a lovely writer; sometimes funny too. Many of her…
The Complete America's Test Kitchen TV Show Cookbook, 2001-2018The Complete America's Test Kitchen TV Show Cookbook, 2001-2018, Book
Book - 2017 | Revised editionBook, 2017. Revised edition
Added Oct 03, 2019
Comment:
I absolutely enjoy watching the America's Test Kitchen tv shows on public television. (on Saturdays in metro twin cities, MN.)
The Milk Street tv show is also related to Christopher Kimball's innovative programming. Also on tv on Saturdays.
Check out YouTube for America's Test Kitchen and Milk Street.
My public library catalog search came up with 130 items related to ATKitchen. Including DVDS of the Seasons of the public tv show. Wow.
ATKitchen publishes MANY varieties of cookbooks, recipes, from beginner to advanced, although most of the books may not specify which, except for the titles.
See their site for a long listing of ALL the many titles of different cookbooks.
ex: Vegetables Illustrated An Inspiring Guide With 700+ Kitchen-tested Recipes
I recently discovered that the "older" publications of the annual tv show recipes is less expensive as a used book. For example, complete recipes thru year 2016 or 2017.I absolutely enjoy watching the America's Test Kitchen tv shows on public television. (on Saturdays in metro twin cities, MN.)
The Milk Street tv show is also related to Christopher Kimball's innovative programming. Also on tv on Saturdays.
Check…
The Little Paris BookshopThe Little Paris Bookshop, BookA Novel
by George, NinaBook - 2015 | First U.S. editionBook, 2015. First U.S. edition
Added Oct 03, 2019
Comment:
... a profound book .... a profoundly beautifully written novel.
It was also on the bestseller list in many European countries. The English translation is lovely.
The Complete America's Test Kitchen TV Show Cookbook, 2001-2019The Complete America's Test Kitchen TV Show Cookbook, 2001-2019, Book
Book - 2018 | Revised editionBook, 2018. Revised edition
Added Oct 03, 2019
A Better ManA Better Man, BookA Chief Inspector Gamache Novel
by Penny, LouiseBook - 2019 | First EditionBook, 2019. First Edition
Added Oct 03, 2019
Comment:
Newly published in summer 2019; Inspector Gamache series; by Louise Penny of Canada.
this is the 15th book in the series;
This is yet another excellent plot; fabulous reading experience. Every novel has its plus and minus features: Clara's "miniatures" was a tedious feature in this plot.
Odd---?how did Tracey respond to private msgs if he had no internet?
Penny is a master of writing dialogue along a stream of perceptive nuances and overt outcomes; Wonderfully presented details.
Sadly, I'd guess it will likely be another year or two until a 16th book in the series is published, if the series continues. Don't know, do we?Newly published in summer 2019; Inspector Gamache series; by Louise Penny of Canada.
this is the 15th book in the series;
This is yet another excellent plot; fabulous reading experience. Every novel has its plus and minus features: Clara's…
Christopher Kimball's Milk StreetChristopher Kimball's Milk Street, BookThe New Home Cooking
by Kimball, ChristopherBook - 2017 | First editionBook, 2017. First edition
Added Oct 03, 2019
Comment:
This is the first recipe book published by the famous Christopher Kimball (of America's Test Kitchen) and Cook's Country.
This: white hardcover, pub yr 2017, big book, illustrated recipes; for the home cook;
Ingredients were not too difficult to locate; recipe steps easy enough; not a cookbook of what you'd call "American favorites"; many recipes representing more spicy or seasoned foods including desserts, grains, salads, dressings, etc., but, I'd just leave that amount of spice out, or cut way back on it.
Google books shows the previews of a handful of recipes from this book.
Here are some of the recipes I wrote down to follow up on:
Thai fried rice, turkish meatballs, grain soda bread, Israeli hummus, oat coconut cookies, Indian tomato rice, beef noodle soup
Season shows of the Milk Street shows on public TV are also on DVD format /
Season One was year 2018; and there is a 6X a year magazine title Milk Street
Milk Street: See the sit , recipes tab, some free recipes don't require subscription:
site has info, books, blog, supplies, etc.
Also recipe other books Published: by Milk Street:
yellow cover, Milk Street Cookbook,
blue cover Tuesday Nights ; / 50 Recipes to Change the Way You Cook;
orangish cover -- Milk Street Roasts, Soups, Stews;
Are the shows on YouTube? -- looks like it -- and short clips for tips, etc. cookingThis is the first recipe book published by the famous Christopher Kimball (of America's Test Kitchen) and Cook's Country.
This: white hardcover, pub yr 2017, big book, illustrated recipes; for the home cook;
Ingredients were not too difficult to…
Added Oct 03, 2019
Comment:
4th title in the series, 14 total in series thru yr 2018
Next book 5th in series is The Paperwhite Narcissus.
Riggs' writing is a delight; intelligent, descriptive, seasonal.
Victoria seems to again be a target to bad people with bad intentions.(The fact that doors don't get locked to homes seems to contribute to being at risk.)4th title in the series, 14 total in series thru yr 2018
Next book 5th in series is The Paperwhite Narcissus.
Riggs' writing is a delight; intelligent, descriptive, seasonal.
Victoria seems to again be a target to bad people with bad…
Added Oct 03, 2019
Comment:
This is the 20th book -- final published -- in the Deborah Knott series. Thru yr 2015.
Looks like this title, Long Upon the Land, is the ending of the total series.
But keep in touch with Margaret Maron's info to see if more get published in the series.
Margaret Maron is the author of several other fiction series. Sigrid Harald, (detective, NYcity)
Margaret Maron has been a winner of SO many mystery fiction awards, mostly for the Agatha Awards. And, she's also been a most frequent nominee for winning fiction.This is the 20th book -- final published -- in the Deborah Knott series. Thru yr 2015.
Looks like this title, Long Upon the Land, is the ending of the total series.
But keep in touch with Margaret Maron's info to see if more get published in…
1,000 Books to Read Before You Die1,000 Books to Read Before You Die, BookA Life-changing List
by Mustich, JamesBook - 2018Book, 2018
Added Oct 03, 2019
Comment:
This is a large and beautiful and heavy book. Published yr 2018.
It's organized by the alphabetical last name of the author.
Also lists a category of book suggestions for areas of interest, such as Read Aloud, or LOL or
Web site for info is 1000bookstoread.com
See also the book The Book of Books by Jessica Allen (based on public TV's Great American Read voted survey.)
See also any books by notable librarian author Nancy Pearl, including the book More Book Lust -- Recommended Reading for Every Mood, Moment, and ReasonThis is a large and beautiful and heavy book. Published yr 2018.
It's organized by the alphabetical last name of the author.
Also lists a category of book suggestions for areas of interest, such as Read Aloud, or LOL or
Web site for info…
Mining for JusticeMining for Justice, BookA Chloe Ellefson Mystery
by Ernst, KathleenBook - 2017 | First editionBook, 2017. First edition
Added Sep 30, 2019
Comment:
8th title in a series of 10 titles thru yr 2019
Another fine plot of intelligent research; the men and women immigrants from Cornwall England who came to Wisconsin to mine the hills for metals, especially lead. Fascinating history; set in a small Wisc town; early to mid 1800's: Ernst's understanding of social history is a most fascinating aspect of her novels; we are all made better by her skills.
And we can't help but wonder how it is that Chloe keeps confronting so many dangerous situations, and makes use of her wits to save herself from grievous harm.8th title in a series of 10 titles thru yr 2019
Another fine plot of intelligent research; the men and women immigrants from Cornwall England who came to Wisconsin to mine the hills for metals, especially lead. Fascinating history; set in a small…
Death and HonestyDeath and Honesty, Large Print
by Riggs, CynthiaLarge Print - 2009 | Large print edLarge Print, 2009. Large print ed
Added Sep 30, 2019
Comment:
8th title in the series of 14 titles thru yr 2018
Good reading; Victoria at age 92 continues to surpass the investigative skills of her lesser aged cohorts; but, that's part of the fun of reading this series.
Next in the series is Touch Me Not, 9th in the series.8th title in the series of 14 titles thru yr 2018
Good reading; Victoria at age 92 continues to surpass the investigative skills of her lesser aged cohorts; but, that's part of the fun of reading this series.
Next in the series is Touch Me Not,…
Added Sep 28, 2019
Comment:
Getting into this novel takes a bit of reading. The author's style is smooth, thoughtful, rich. But we are not automatically embracing the voice of the character, Eleanor.
We know from the onset that Eleanor is an idiosyncratic cluster of behaviors. We begin to feel the isolation of her daily life because of the raw details of her first person narrative.
Eleanor is very alone, isolated, like many single women, living lives of work, and not much else. But. Who cares?
Eleanor teaches us ... Emotional Trauma is a deeply embedded network of memories, results, shortcomings, limitations, fears. Words cannot always easily explain the scars of trauma.
If this book teaches one lesson to a reader, it might be to learn to, to want to, open our eyes and our hearts to those around us who have lived through, but still feel, the repercussions of familial trauma. We can make a difference to that person. And who do we know who is alone? Raymond was a patient example of kindness in action.
There are quite a few funny lines tucked into the narrative. Refreshing.Getting into this novel takes a bit of reading. The author's style is smooth, thoughtful, rich. But we are not automatically embracing the voice of the character, Eleanor.
We know from the onset that Eleanor is an idiosyncratic cluster of…
A Memory of MusketsA Memory of Muskets, BookA Chloe Ellefson Mystery
by Ernst, KathleenBook - 2016 | First editionBook, 2016. First edition
Added Sep 25, 2019
Comment:
7th title in the series of 10 titles thru yr 2019
Even though I am not a reader of historical facts of wars fought, (i.e. Civil War, USA). I found this book to be an enlightening plot. Now I know more than before reading it.
The plot is an intense examination of the ways in which people's lives (the characters) are shaped by the wish, and taking actions, to improve upon the circumstances of their lives; immigration, settlement, work, money, family, values, war, loss, survival, death. The national and regional popularity of Civil War "re-enactment" "troops" was fascinating.
Digging out the previously unknown mid 19th century settlement details of the family history of Roelke's newly purchased farm-stead is the heart of this plot;
Author Ernst has created an internal understanding for how family history lives on; and knowing the history is a precious gem of insight.7th title in the series of 10 titles thru yr 2019
Even though I am not a reader of historical facts of wars fought, (i.e. Civil War, USA). I found this book to be an enlightening plot. Now I know more than before reading it.
The plot is an…
The Story of Arthur TruluvThe Story of Arthur Truluv, BookA Novel
by Berg, ElizabethBook - 2017 | First editionBook, 2017. First edition
vkreads's rating:
Added Sep 22, 2019
Comment:
Author Elizabeth Berg has won literary prizes for her books, novels; and many of her titles have been translated into other languages. Berg is a New York Times bestselling author.
This is the first TITLE in a Series of 3 titles thru yr 2019. series name Mason.
The 2nd in the series is title Night of Miracles. 3d is Confession Club. thru yr 2019.
This novel Arthur Truluv ... is a friendly reading plot, easy reading; the plot is set with emotional richness and a motivation by its characters, of differing ages, who try to live their lives with respect for living, and respect for those loved who have left this world.
It is a refreshing change in a plot ---- to have older age of characters, --- to have several main characters in their eighties; (age), active, inspirational, and wise in some ways of the world.
And the bright, and emotionally complex, teenager, Maddie....so talented, so alone....but...Author Elizabeth Berg has won literary prizes for her books, novels; and many of her titles have been translated into other languages. Berg is a New York Times bestselling author.
This is the first TITLE in a Series of 3 titles thru yr 2019.…
Seven Last WordsSeven Last Words, BookAn Invitation to A Deeper Friendship With Jesus
by Martin, JamesBook - 2016 | First editionBook, 2016. First edition
vkreads's rating:
Added Sep 22, 2019
Comment:
Seven Last Words
An Invitation to A Deeper Friendship With Jesus
128 pgs, small book; this is a book to read and reread three, four, fives times, not because it is too hard to understand...but because James Martin's "clearly written" insights about Jesus' life and "last words" (seven phrases) are very rich insights.
I especially liked the use of questions in the chapters; such as Who did Jesus believe himself to be? ....
The questions help to mirror our questions; how can a deeper friendship with Jesus continue to grow in our daily lives, fragile hearts, busy minds?
Google books site shows some pages if you want to get a feeling for the writing.
Father Martin has authored many books; he's on YouTube; example, Stephen Colbert 20 minute interview of Father Martin;
Martin is a popular speaker; teacher;Seven Last Words
An Invitation to A Deeper Friendship With Jesus
128 pgs, small book; this is a book to read and reread three, four, fives times, not because it is too hard to understand...but because James Martin's "clearly written" insights…
Added Sep 21, 2019
Comment:
7th title in the series of 14 titles thru yr 2014
Author Riggs tells a good story ... above the level of many other cozy mystery plots;
This story is not too dramatic, not too elementary; not too lack lustre.
Just another story set on Martha's Vineyard -- where so many people living there know one another, and that fact makes a difference in the story.7th title in the series of 14 titles thru yr 2014
Author Riggs tells a good story ... above the level of many other cozy mystery plots;
This story is not too dramatic, not too elementary; not too lack lustre.
Just another story set on…
Better Homes and Gardens I Didn't Know My Slow Cooker Could Do ThatBetter Homes and Gardens I Didn't Know My Slow Cooker Could Do That, Book150 Delicious, Surprising Recipes
Book - 2015Book, 2015
Added Sep 16, 2019
Comment:
Many desserts for making in a slow cooker.
some good info including how to test the heat effectiveness of your slow cooker.
Other items too .. snacks, entrees, etc.
I wondered if Better Homes and Gardens includes these/some of these slow cooker recipes on their web site.
Illustrated color pics. Nice.Many desserts for making in a slow cooker.
some good info including how to test the heat effectiveness of your slow cooker.
Other items too .. snacks, entrees, etc.
I wondered if Better Homes and Gardens includes these/some of these slow cooker…
Anxious for NothingAnxious for Nothing, BookFinding Calm in A Chaotic World
by Lucado, MaxBook - 2017Book, 2017
vkreads's rating:
Added Sep 14, 2019
Comment:
Maz Lucado's writing is expressive, fun, thoughtful...this is a book of chapters loaded with insights that agree with developing into a being a better person. Anxiety is not a sin; it is an emotion. "Rejoice in the Lord, always."
Lucado's knowledgeable integration of scripture into his chapter themes is so very skillful and instructive. Friendly teaching. Not scolding, not unrealistic.
Lucado has published MANY nonfiction books. Keep reading. He began publishing books in about 1995 and has always been a well respected voice in integrating mental health, well-being teachings, and living a Christian set of faith and beliefs. He is GOOD!Maz Lucado's writing is expressive, fun, thoughtful...this is a book of chapters loaded with insights that agree with developing into a being a better person. Anxiety is not a sin; it is an emotion. "Rejoice in the Lord, always."
Lucado's…
Added Sep 14, 2019
Comment:
This is the 6th title in Grimes' series, Richard Jury. Set in England.
25 titles in the series thru yr 2019.
Comment: