Reading the Stars: Astrology for Book Lovers (2022)

 

An original and entertaining mashup of literature and astrology for book lovers and star watchers alike. Whether you are a true believer or not, Reading the Stars: Astrology for Book Lovers just might offer you some insight as to why you enjoy the book genres you do.

The book begins with an easy-to-follow introduction to astrology and how the planets, stars, and natural elements combine to influence each Zodiac sign. It is followed by a “chapter” on each sign of the zodiac, beginning with Aries, the beginning of the astrological calendar. The basic personality traits of the sign are discussed, as well as the type of books generally preferred. You’ll also find a list of recommended titles.

I found the book very insightful.

The Last Heir to Blackwood Library by Hester Fox (2023)

 

Ivy Radcliffe is a young woman living hand to mouth in post Would War I London when she is summoned to Yorkshire where she learns she is the new Lady Hayworth, the last living heir to the Blackwood Library and a large estate, which began life as an abbey. Ivy knows nothing about this line of Radcliffe’s or the house. At Blackwood Abbey, Ivy is met by an uninviting staff who obviously know something they are not sharing, but is determined to make the best of things in her new home.

A book lover at heart, Ivy is delighted to find the house contains a library that has been neglected for years.  She sets out to catalog the vast library’s collection but the more times Ivy spends in the room, the worse her headaches become and she fears she is losing her memory when staff members tell her she is asking the same questions over and over.

In the local village, Ivy meets Sir Arthur Mabry, to whom Ivy is immediately drawn to Arthur because of his interest in books and the library. She learns he is the member of a mysterious club whose members are very interested in restoring the library to its former glory and opening it up to the public. Misunderstanding Arthur’s meaning and his true intentions, Ivy begins lending some of the library’s books to the local villagers, only to learn that the title of the books lent out seem to be a prophesy of events to follow.

What is the relationship of the library to the nun mentioned in the first chapter who was walled up inside the abbey centuries ago?  Why is the chauffer continuously begging Ivy to leave the estate?  Why is Arthur so interested in the library? You’ll have to read The Last Heir to Blackwood Library to learn the answers. This book hits all the elements of the gothic novel.

This is only Hester Fox Book owned by Eastpointe.  If you are interesting in reading other titles by her, a reference librarian can get them for you from an area library.

3.45 stars on Goodreads, 3.9 on Amazon

Bring Me Back by B.A. Paris (2018)

 B.A. Paris is a master of the psychological thriller and Bring Me Back is no exception. I haven’t been so invested in a book in a long time. I read it in one sitting. 

Twelve years earlier, Finn and his girlfriend Layla Gray were on holiday in France when Layla disappeared and was never found. The reader learns in the first chapter that Finn told police the truth about the event but not all of it. The story unfolds from there.

Twelve years later finds Finn is engaged to Layla’s sister Ellen, drawn together but their shared grief.  Finn wants to believe he and Ellen will be happy together even though a sixth sense tells him not to trust her.

As wedding plans are being made, Finn receives a phone call from the detective on Layla’s missing person’s case that a witness claims to have seen Layla near the house in which they had lived.  Items on meaning to both Layla and Ellen begin showing up in odd places.  And Finn starts receiving anonymous emails from someone who appears to know Layla. Could Layla still be alive?  If so, where has she been all this time and what does she want?

Divided into three parts and written in the first person, mostly by Finn – Now and Before, Layla and Finn, and Finn.

If you are interested in reading more of B.A. Paris’ books, ask one of the reference librarians where to find them.

3.51 stars in Goodreads, 3.9 on Amazon