Every now and then, we all need a little help from our friends – which seems to be the theme for this week’s reading, as Elizabeth calls on her underworld friends to help a widow in need, Phryne Fisher solves mysteries and makes friends in Melbourne, and a village librarian teams up with the patrons to fight for their beloved library. Ain’t we got fun?
City of Secrets (“Counterfeit Lady” #2) by Victoria Thompson: Book 2 picks up shortly after where book 1 left off with former grifter Elizabeth Miles adjusting to her new life in high society – which is disturbed when she realizes a new friend is in need of her special, less than legal skills. This “case” really brought the fore fundamental differences in Elizabeth and Gideon’s worldviews, and it was so fun and satisfying watching them trying to figure out how to meet in the middle. “Counterfeit Lady” is shaping up to be another favorite!
Cocaine Blues (“Phryne Fisher” #1) by Kerry Greenwood: Who doesn’t like a some jazz age shenanigans? Although I’ve seen some of the beloved TV show Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries, this is my first foray into the book series, and I must say, I like it. Phryne blends classy with savvy as she returns to her native Melbourne, Australia, and mingles with members of the upper and lower classes. I think my favorite thing about her is that while she is sophisticated, she’s also sympathetic and kind, willing to take a chance on helping a stranger – while still being smart enough to guard her pocketbook, just in case her judgment is wrong. I don’t think I’ll devour these as quickly as some series, but I’ll definitely be coming back for more of Phryne and friends.
The Last Chance Library by Freya Sampson: This heartwarming story about a struggling village library and the community who fights for it stole my heart completely. Books and libraries are, of course, close to my heart, and I loved spending time with people who understood the power of both of these things to bring people together and change lives. The bookish heroine and her colorful library-patrons-in-arms are now one of my favorite literary found families, and getting to know them and their stories was a true pleasure. If you like any of the things mentioned here, I highly recommend picking up this little treasure! Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
–b
Book It With Becca 