Tag: December new releases

Happy December! Hope you had a great Thanksgiving. We are in the countdown to Christmas, and I always think books make the best gifts! You can check out my Holiday Hint Lists here for some book recommendations. Or you can take a look at some of the new books out this week!

Books for Kids

Little Eva Loves (Board Book) – Board book starring Eva from the Owl Diaries series.
The Cool Bean – A picture book about the importance of kindness.
A Home for a Princess – An inside look at 9 Disney princess castles including ones for Cinderella, Aurora, Merida and Mulan.
The Serious Goose – This picture book by late night host Jimmy Kimmel stars a very serious goose and challenges readers to make the goose laugh.
The Cloud Kingdom – Book 7 in the Last Firehawk series where the characters are trying to find a hidden magical kingdom.
Griffith’s Guide for Dragon Masters – A special edition book from Scholastic Branches for fans of the Dragon Masters series. Full color book with maps and sections on the various Dragon Masters and their dragons.
Hercules and the Nine-Headed Hydra – Book 16 in the Heroes in Training series about Greek mythology.
Off I Go! – Book 2 in the Princess Truly series.
The Stolen Slipper – Once Upon a Fairy Tale, book 2. Kara and Zed try to help Prince Charming find a girl who lost a slipper – and find her slipper which has gone missing.
Thea Stilton and the Black Forest Burglary – Book 30 in the Thea Stilton series. The Thea Sisters travel to Germany for a Festival of Time.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

All the Colors of Magic – An unusual girl discovers her absent father is a wizard, and she heads out on a quest to find him.
Clotho the Fate – Book 25 in the Goddess Girls series based on Greek mythology. One of the three Fates tries to undo some mistakes she has made.
DC Brave and Bold!: Female DC Super Heroes Take on the Universe – Beautiful art and descriptions of 50+ DC characters.
Major Impossible – Book 9 in the fantastic Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales nonfiction graphic novel series. This is the story of John Wesley Powell, a one-armed man who explored the Grand Canyon in the 1800s.
Who Is Ruth Bader Ginsburg? – Biography of Justice Ginsburg.
Adorkable (previously available as an e-book, new this week in print) – To keep her best friend from trying any more awful matchmaking attempts, Sally convinces her best guy friend – and crush – to pose as her boyfriend. I adore fake relationship stories, so I have already bought this one.
Amazon Princess (December 6 – e-book) – First book in a new series that picks up after the events of the Mount Olympus Academy series. When a Greek god is destroyed, 10 different teens end up with one of his powers. They are all attending Amazon Academy to compete in contests where the winner will get to keep all 10 of the powers. I have the first book in the Mount Olympus series – Fire & Flood – on my Kindle so I can try out the whole series. (Fire & Flood is free for Kindle Unlimited Subscribers at the time of this writing.)
Children of Virtue and Vengeance – Sequel to the best-selling Children of Blood and Bone about a young woman working to bring magic back to her home land. I have the first book on my library list.
Dangerous Alliance: An Austentacious Romance – A young woman enters society in search of a husband in order to save her family – with only her favorite Jane Austen books to guide her. I already have this on hold at the library. The author had me at “Austentacious.”
Diamond & Dawn – Sequel to Amber & Dusk. A young woman expecting to take her place as empress discovers her rival isn’t dead, but in a coma. And that is not the only threat to her rule. This sounds awesome! I need to check out the first book.
The Piper’s Pursuit (Hardcover) – Part of a collection of fairy tale retellings from Melanie Dickerson and Thomas Nelson. A young woman determined to protect her community from a plague of rats and a mysterious beast teams up with an arrogant duke’s son who happens to be a talented musician. A take on the Pied Piper of Hamelin.
Reverie – A young man found half-dead in the river has no memory of his life before the accident. When 3 teens say they were his friends, he’s not sure if he should trust them, but that’s the least of their problems as reality itself seems to be unraveling. (LGBTQ+)
Scared Little Rabbits – A girl in a summer coding program is suspected of foul play when another student goes missing and all the clues point back to her.
Just Mercy (YA adaptation and movie tie in) – Lawyer and social justice advocate Bryan Stevenson shares his story of working with the wrongfully imprisoned.

Books for Adults

Assault and Batting (e-book) – First in the new Taylor Quinn Quilt Shop Mystery series. A young woman returns home after the death of her mother to take care of her little sister and aging grandfather. Her little sister is afraid her birth mom caused their mother’s death, so the sisters start investigating.
Blitzed (Trade Paperback) – Book 3 in the Playbook series. Brynn is grateful that her bar has become a home to many of the Denver Mustangs and their significant others, but there’s no way she would ever date one of them. I have enjoyed the first two books in this series, and I am eager to check out this next installment.
Brewed Awakening (Hardcover) – Book 18 in the Coffeehouse Mystery series. Clare wakes up on a park bench with no memory of the last 15 years, including her NYPD Detective fiancé. But security camera footage shows Clare there when a hotel heiress was kidnapped. The police are starting to wonder if Clare was an innocent bystander or if she’s guilty, so she’s got to get her memories back and help find the real culprit. This sounds fascinating!!
The Dating Charade (Trade Paperback) – Just as Cassie is ready to swear off blind dates and dating apps, she meets Jett, and they hit it off. But before the two can see what sort of future they have together, each of them becomes guardian to three children and is afraid to tell the other. I’ll be reviewing this one later this week.
Hanukkah at the Great Greenwich Ice Creamery (e-book) – A broken man discovers a woman who makes him want to find a fresh perspective on life. I love the idea of a Hanukkah romance!
Have a Deadly New Year (e-book) – Book 4 in the Farm-to-Fork Mystery series. A private catered dinner for a famous band turns deadly when someone is found with a drumstick in the chest.
Murder at the Arts and Crafts Festival (Trade Paperback) – Book 3 in the Cleo Mack Mystery series about a social work professor who takes an early retirement to join an Alabama community for active seniors. In this book, an artist is murdered at the local Arts and Crafts Festival.
Murder on Book Row (e-book) – A book shop owner turns sleuth when a neighboring bookseller is murdered.
Pizza Pie Puzzler (December 5 – e-book) – Book 3 in the Felicia’s Food Truck One Hour Mystery series. When a rival food truck starts poaching Felicia’s customers and then explodes, her cook is the prime suspect. All of the books in this series are currently available for free for Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
Reputation (Trade Paperback) – When a hacker dumps a college town’s emails into a searchable database, everyone’s secrets are exposed. When an investigative reporter comes to town for her brother-in-law’s funeral, she decides to look into his murder. Finding a killer is easier said than done when so many people have something to hide. Sounds fantastic! I have this one on my library list.
A Spy to Die For (e-book) – A lonely accountant with a photographic memory teams up with an MI6 agent to track down a man who wants her dead. At the time of this writing, this is available for free to Kindle Unlimited subscribers.
Star Wars: Age of Resistance – Villains (Paperback Graphic Novel) – A collection of comics starring the villains of Star Wars.
Thin Ice (Hardcover) – First in a new series. When a thriller author becomes the focus of an obsessed fan who kidnaps her, she escapes and goes on the run to Alaska to hide out. While she tries to settle into her new community, a suspicious death makes her wonder if her captor has found her.
Would Like to Meet (Trade Paperback) – An assistant to an agent is charged with getting their one big client – an Oscar-winning screenwriter – to finish his contracted romcom (romantic comedy) screenplay. So she makes him a deal – she will try out all of the meet cutes from classic romcoms to prove someone could actually find love that way if he will start writing his screenplay. I’ll be reviewing this one later this month.
Disney’s Land: Walt Disney and the Invention of the Amusement Park that Changed the World (Hardcover) – A history of Disneyland.
Fresh Start Bible (Hardcover/Paperback) – Includes over 500 discipleship entries to answer common faith questions and help users build a strong foundation for their Christian faith.
The Leaky Gut Meal Plan: 4 Weeks to Detox and Improve Digestive Health (Paperback Cookbook) – Includes a 4-week meal plan and 75 recipes as well as background information on “leaky gut” and how to correct it.
One Day at Disney: Meet the People Who Make the Magic Across the Globe (Hardcover) – 80 cast members share what a day at Disney looks like for them. This looks amazing!
The One Year Pray for America Bible NLT (Paperback) – Includes a 15-minutes-per-day reading plan for the Bible as well as non-partisan prayer prompts.
The Soul of Wine: Savoring the Goodness of God (Hardcover) – The author, daughter of a vintner and someone trained as a theologian, explores the use of wine in the Bible. Includes a wine tasting and book discussion guide.
Star Trek: Body by Starfleet (Hardcover) – A fitness guide that plays off Star Trek references and characters. I’m eager to check out this humorous book in person.
The Total Money Makeover Journal (Hardcover) – Bullet journal format with prompts to track your journey to financial freedom.
The Way We All Became the Brady Bunch: How the Canceled Sitcom Became the Beloved Pop Culture Icon We Are Still Talking About Today (Hardcover) – Part of the 50th anniversary celebration of The Brady Bunch.

With Christmas falling on Tuesday this year, release dates for the next two weeks are a little wonky. But these books – all for kids – are releasing SOMETIME this week. Enjoy!

Books for Kids

Robot in Love – This looks adorable! Perfect for Valentine’s Day.
What if You Had T.Rex Teeth? And Other Dinosaur Parts – I have teacher friends who have done amazing things in the classroom with this series of books. If you have dinosaur fans in your life/classroom, check this one out!
Words to Love By – A picture book from the author of The Purpose Driven Life about the power of words to do good.
The Bad Guys in Superbad – Book 8 in this fun transitional chapter book series. This time the guys get super powers! Really weird super powers….
Dog Man: Brawl of the Wild – Book 6 in this fun graphic novel/early chapter book series for kids. This time Dog Man is sent to the pound for a crime he didn’t commit.
Mac B Kid Spy: The Impossible Crime – Book 2 in this fun, silly spy series for kids. You can see my review of book one here.
Treasure of the Gold Dragon – Book 12 in this BRANCHES series about dragons. Branches series usually don’t go on this long, but this one (and a few others – Owl Diaries, Eerie Elementary, Notebook of Doom) has really connected with readers. Maybe it’s the dragons!

Books for Older Kids

Blizzard Besties – A girl hoping for a fun week of skiing must band together with the other kids to find her brother who goes missing during a blizzard.
The Hive Queen – Book 12 in the Wings of Fire series, book 2 in the current story arc of the Lost Continent. I JUST finished the first book and it was terrific. I already have this one pre-ordered so I get it as soon as it releases. In this arc, there were three dragon tribes on the Lost Continent of Pantala, but after the Tree Wars, the Leafwings have been destroyed and the Hivewings have taken over. There is some cross over with the last story arc, but I think readers could start with book 11 (book 1 for this arc – The Lost Continent) without issue. It might even prompt them to go back to the Jade Mountain books (Books 6-10) to check out the characters they missed. You can read my review of The Lost Continent in the new year.
I Only Have Pies for You – In a family of bakers and pie makers extraordinaire, it’s hard to be the one person who can’t make a pie to save her life. But Dacey has a chance to help her family’s pie shop in her own way, even if it means having to partner with her nemesis, Chayton.
The Terrible Two’s Last Laugh – This is the last hurrah for epic pranksters Miles and Niles. This has been a fun series. Fans will not want to miss the final installment.

I’m looking forward to the wrap up of the semester this week and the move into a few weeks of rest – and reading! Here are some of the books out this week.

Books for Kids

Hugs &Kisses for the Grouchy Ladybug – The latest from Eric Carle.
I’ll Love You Till the Cows Come Home – An expression of love taken to fun extremes. I can’t wait to see this one in person!
Love, Z – A little robot who finds a message in a bottle sets off on an adventure to learn what “love” means.
Ellie May on President’s Day – First in a new early chapter book series about a girl who uses what she is learning about the presidents to try to get her turn as class flag leader. This looks darling.
Mia Mayhem Is a Superhero! AND Mia Mayhem Learns to Fly! – A regular eight-year-old girl discovers she is a superhero in this new early chapter book series. Adorable!

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse Junior Novel – The Junior Novel for the new animated Spider-Man movie. I’m not a big Spider-Man fan, but I have enjoyed the most recent Marvel iteration of the character, and I also enjoyed the Miles Morales novel that came out last year. I’ve been looking forward to seeing this movie.
Marvel Fearless and Fantastic: Female Superheroes Save the World – A book for kids that explores the women of Marvel. I’m excited about this one!
Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse – The Art of the Movie – Our whole family enjoys these Art of coffee table books!
The Cursed Sea – Sequel to The Glass Spare in a series about a princess cursed to turn living things into gem. I have this series on my TBR list.
The Disasters – Billed as The Breakfast Club meets Guardians of the Galaxy. Four kids kicked out of the space academy are witnesses to a major terrorist attack. They are also the perfect fall guys. Yep, this is at the top of my list for the week! I already have it on hold from the library.
The Girl with the Broken Heart – After suffering a family tragedy, a girl gets her dream summer job caring for abused horses. Her helper is a charming guy who’s hiding something. I’m curious to give this one a try.
Kiss Collector – A girl who has seen too many relationships crumble, including her own, decides instead of relationships, she just wants kisses. She challenges her friends to a contest of collecting the most kisses over spring break. I can see so many ways for that to go wrong! This is on my list for this week, too.
A Walk in Our Cleats: 25 Athletes Who Never Gave Up – This looks at 25 NFL players and their lives of faith. This would make a great holiday gift!

Books for Adults

The Amish Sweet Shop (Paperback) – Three Amish stories for Valentine’s Day. Seems a little early, but after the first of the year, I’ll be ready for this one!
Botched 4 Murder (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in the Sophie Kimball Mystery series. In this book, Sophie finds trouble – and murder – at her mother’s retirement home. This sounds like a great mystery.
Gown with the Wind (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in the Wedding Planner Mystery series. In this book, Mallory is trying to plan the wedding of her ex, but before they can get down the aisle, his fiancée is a murder suspect.
Kappy King and the Pie Kaper (Paperback) – Book 3 in the Kappy King series. This time a baking rivalry might have led to murder. I have the first book on my TBR shelves. I can’t wait to try out this series!
One Taste Too Many (Mass Market Paperback) – First in a new series. Sarah Blair is trying to put her life back together after a divorce and other disappointments when her ex drops dead and Sarah’s twin is the primary suspect. I love trying new mystery series!
Something Worth Saving (Paperback) – Charlie chose Lily the cat at the shelter when she was desperately in need of rescue. Now it’s her turn to rescue Charlie. Charlie is in trouble and the rest of his family members are too wrapped up in their own circumstances to notice. Lily will have to use all her feline wiles to get them to truly see Charlie and help him. This is high on my list for this week, too!
Son of Fletch (Paperback) – Book 10 in the Fletch mysteries (yes, Fletch, like the Chevy Chase movie from 1985.). An escaped con ends up on Fletch’s property and claims he is the reporter’s long lost son. I haven’t read any of the books before, but I am intrigued by the plot of this one. It’s on my list for this week, too.
Steamed Open (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 7 in the Maine Clambake Mystery series. This time, a new neighbor is murdered after he blocks off access to the beach – and the clamming the town needs, including Julia’s family business.
Valentine Candy Murder (Paperback) – Two PREVIOUSLY PUBLISHED mysteries – Valentine Murder AND Chocolate Covered Murder – are combined into one volume.  This is great for folks new to the series, but if you have read these already, be aware that this is a re-issue/repackaging instead of new material.
Wine and Punishment (Hardcover) – First in a new series. A woman looking to reinvent herself opens a literary pub in Vermont. When her ex is found murdered and a local business is the victim of arson, Sadie starts digging to find the local troublemaker before he or she strikes again. Sounds like a great new series! This one is on my library wish list! (My hold list is full….)
Simon Peter: Flawed but Faithful Disciple (Hardcover) – A six-week Lenten journey that looks at the life of Jesus’ disciple, Simon Peter. A leader’s guide is available for those who want to use this as a group resource.

Two more weeks until Christmas. Don’t forget my Holiday Hint Lists if you are looking for gifts for readers on your shopping list this holiday season. Here are some of the books out this week.

Books for Kids

Romeosaurus and Juliet Rex – Two dinosaurs who just want to be friends realize their families would never get along. This looks adorable!
First Pitch AND Jump Shot – Nonfiction early readers about baseball and basketball respectively.
I Wish I Was a Polar Bear – Another nonfiction early reader.
The Dragon Games! – Book 10 in the Ella and Owen series for new chapter book readers. Ella is sabotaged in a flying contest, and Owen is trying to find the culprit.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Sprinkles Before Sweethearts – Book 5 in the Sprinkle Sundays series about 3 friends trying to stay connected when their life circumstances start to change. In this one, one of the girls feels like everyone around her is squealing about boys and dating, but she isn’t interested. Does that mean there’s something wrong with her? This sounds like a great series!
This Lie Will Kill You – I Know What You Did Last Summer meets Clue in this book for teens about five kids who played a part in the death of another.  The five have now been lured to a remote location for revenge. *shiver* Sounds great!

Books for Adults

A Baker Street Wedding (Hardcover) – Book 6 in the Baker Street Letters series. In this book, Reggie and Laura are now married, but there are still mysteries to solve including why they are honeymooning in a remote village on the coast. I’m several books behind on this series, but I enjoyed the first few.
Batter Off Dead (Hardcover) – Book 2 in the Southern Cake Baker Mystery series. The host of a library fundraiser is killed after promising to pay off the library’s loan but before he can follow through on his promise – or pay Sophia for the catering she did for the event. If she doesn’t find out who’s responsible so everything can be sorted out and she can be paid, her business may not survive. I’d love to give this new series a try.
Hooks Can Be Deceiving (Hardcover) – Book 13 in this crochet-themed mystery series. In this book, a new member of the crochet group is killed. Who would kill her? Was she even the killer’s target in the first place?
Mera, Queen of Atlantis (Paperback GN) – There seem to be several versions of Mera in the Aquaman/DC universe. In this new graphic novel, she is the queen of Atlantis in exile trying to quell a civil war. I’m curious to see this one in person.
Who I Am With You (Paperback) – A pregnant woman grieving the loss of her husband and first born meets a guy hiding out in Hope Springs, Idaho.  Over time, thanks to the notes in the margins of the woman’s great-grandfather’s Bible, they may both find the healing they are looking for.
Together with Christ: A Dating Couple’s Devotional (Paperback) – This looks like a terrific gift or resource for young couples hoping to grow in their relationship with one another and with Christ.

December is here, and there are plenty of new books releasing this month to keep you reading right on through the end of the year! Here are some of the books out this week:

Books for Kids

Louise and the Class Pet – From the author of Louise Loves Art, a darling picture book, comes book 2 in an Early Reader series starring Louise.
A Puppy for Helen Keller (Tails from History) – Book 3 in the Tails from History Early Reader series, this time about Helen Keller and her Akita dog from Japan.
Dog Diaries – Patterson’s Middle School series now for young readers, told through the eyes of Rafe’s dog, Junior. I’m curious about this one. I love books where the animals tell the story in their own “voice.”
Dragon Quest – Book 3 in the reissued Dragonling series. I loved the first one, although I wish the internal illustrations had been redone by the cover artist. In this book Darek and his dragon are trying to stop the kidnapping of a baby dragon. This story sounds great!
It’s Not Easy Being Mimi – Book 1 in a new chapter book series about a girl named Mimi and her cat Marvin who are trying to adjust to a new neighbor.
Beavers: Superpower Field Guide – First in a new illustrated nonfiction series for kids about animal “superpowers.”

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Never Evers – A middle school ski trip doesn’t go quite as planned when a boy goes on the trip looking for his first kiss, but a big pop star shows up and has his eye on the same girl. With the kissing/dating pieces, this is obviously for older middle grade readers.
North to Benjamin – A boy and his mother head to northwestern Canada as his mom looks for a new guy whose heart she will eventually break. The boy pours his heart out to a dog as he tries to protect his new friends from his mom’s bad choices. This is an adventure story full of complicated family dynamics. Another one for an older middle grade audience.
Who Was Napoleon? AND Who Was Nikola Tesla? – The latest in the Who Was series
The Expedition – Book two in a teen dystopian series following The Initiation. Drayden and his friends venture out of New America (Manhattan) and brave the supervirus that wiped out most of humanity on a quest to contact another civilization in the old area of Boston. I’ve just started the first book in this series.
Fire & Heist – A fantasy story of a girl who is part-dragon trying to save her family from losing everything when her mom goes missing and her family is stripped of their place in wyvern (were-dragon) society. This was outstanding! I can’t wait to post my full review in a few weeks.
Once a King – Book 3 in the Clash of Kingdoms series. This seems to be set a few years in the future from the first two books in the series. I think I have book 1 on my TBR shelves. This series sounds like my sort of book – kings and kingdoms and magic.
Realm of Ruins – A girl with uncontrollable magic may be the only hope for stopping an ancient evil. I have requested this one from the library.
Unpresidented – A biography for teens about our 45th president.

Books for Adults

The Accidental Beauty Queen (Paperback) – A beauty queen wannabe drags her elementary school librarian twin to a pageant but needs her twin to fill in for her when she has an allergic reaction to something. I already have this one on hold from the library!
Catch Me If Yukon (Paperback) – Book 12 in the Passport to Peril mystery series. This time there’s a murder on a seniors tour of Alaska – and the culprit seems to be… Bigfoot. This sounds fun!
Claws for Celebration (Paperback) – Book 3 in the Cat Lady Mystery series about a murder at a holiday cookie bake off.  You can read my review of book one here.
The Decoy Date (Mass Market Paperback) – Book 4 in a romance series of stand alone stories. In this one, a guy proposes a fake relationship with his best friend to help her egg on the target of her affection. Neither of them ever expected to have more-than-friends feelings for one another. This sounds cute! I’ve requested this at the library, too.
Eggs on Ice (Hardcover) – Book 8 in the Cackleberry Club Mystery series is another mystery set at Christmas. This time, a local curmudgeon playing Scrooge is stabbed by the Ghost of Christmas Past. I have several of these books on my TBR shelves. This one sounds like a great holiday mystery!
Murder at the Mill (Hardcover) – First in a new series. A woman new to town is commissioned to paint a portrait of a local crime writer. At Christmas, a member of his family finds a dead body. I’m curious to find out more about this new series.
The Teacher’s Bride (Paperback) – This has been the year of Amish books for me – I’ve never really read many before. This is the fourth book in the Amish Brides of Birch Creek series. In this one, a man who comes to town to be the new school teacher and to find a wife, finds himself out of commission and having to trust his classroom to a unexpected, and unconventional replacement. This looks cute. I’ve requested this from the library, too.
Biblical Grandparenting: Exploring God’s Design for Disciple-Making and Passing Faith to Future Generations (Paperback) – A leadership book for grandparenting ministry.
Never Grow Up (Hardcover) – A memoir from Jackie Chan.

Hope you had a terrific Christmas if you celebrate the holiday!! This is our last “Book News” of 2017.

Here are the new books releasing this week – a great way to use any of those gift cards you might have found in your Christmas stocking! Come back later this morning for a new review for kids, too.

Books for Kids

Be Brave, Little Penguin – Pip Pip wants to join his friends, but he is afraid of water.
Dear Girl – A love letter to the special girl in your life
Bad Guys in Intergalactic Gas – Book 5 in the Bad Guys series for new chapter book readers.
Battle of the Boss-Monster – Book 13 in the Notebook of Doom series. Part of the Branches line of early chapter books.
Dog Man and Cat Kid – Book 4 in the Dog Man series. This time, Dog Man gets a sidekick.
Fire, Fire – Book 3 in the Hilde Cracks the Case series about a real kid-reporter. Part of the Branches line of early chapter books
Magic School Bus Rides Again: Monster Power and Sink or Swim – New Magic School Bus books from the folks at Branches
Toy Academy: Some Assembly Required – Toys learn to play at the Toy Academy. You can imagine what happens at the Evil Toy Academy…. And the Evil Academy has Toy Academy in their sights.
Lego Nonfiction: Science – Latest in the Lego Nonfiction series.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

American Girl Real Stories from My Time: The Titanic and The Underground Railroad – Two nonfiction books in a new line from the folks at American Girl.
Detention of Doom – Book 3 in the DC Secret Hero Society series. Great for fans of the DC Super Hero Girls or other DC properties. Similar in style to the Jedi Academy series (although I prefer the art style in the two Jedi series over the art in book one of this series).
Houses of Hogwarts Creativity Journal – A guided journal for Harry Potter fans
The Love Letters of Abelard and Lily – A girl off her ADHD meds meets a brilliant boy in detention, and they connect over ancient love letters.
Love, Life and the List – A young woman with an unrequited crush on her best friend turns to her art as a distraction from love. She sets 10 challenges for herself to conquer in the hopes that it will add the emotion and heart to her art that is missing.
Young Queens (novella) – E-book prequel to Three Dark Crowns. This is the story of the three queens – after they were born, but before they were separated. This is my top pick for this week!  I’ve already requested this from my local library.

Books for Adults

Crust No One – Book 2 in the Bread Shop mystery series about a struggling photographer who tries her hand at bread baking. I enjoyed book one, and I’m looking forward to reading this!
Escape Claws – Book one in the new Cat Lady mystery series about a young woman who goes to care for her estranged aunt who has a houseful of cats. I really liked this mystery. You can read my review of this one here tomorrow.
Murder with Lemon Tea Cakes – Book 1 in the new Daisy’s Tea Garden mystery series. This series takes place in Pennsylvania Amish Country, and the Tea Garden becomes the scene of a murder. Sounds like a great new series. I’ll be checking this one out.
Now that You Mention It – A woman returns to her home after heartbreak to heal. But her old hometown holds a grudge. Her family is falling apart, and she might not have what it takes to hold things together. This sounds excellent! I’ve already requested this from my local library.
Stowed Away – Book 6 in the Maine Clambake series about a woman who returns home to help out the family’s struggling business. In this book, the main character is called on to help an old rival who is suspected of killing her fiancé.
The Good, the Bad, the Guardians – A handbook for the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Covers the Winter Soldier through the introduction of Doctor Strange. This seems to be the second book in the line.

This week kicks off my favorite time of the year. And in the new releases is a book that may be my favorite book of the whole year. Let’s take a look:

Books for Kids

I Love Pete the Kitty – First in a new series of board books introducing even younger readers to Pete the Cat. In this series, Pete is just a kitten.
Valensteins – Instead of scaring, Fran K Stein is making… A Valentine! Is Fran in love?

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Here, There, Everywhere – A guy feeling alone in a new town meets a girl who changes everything. Except she is counting down the minutes until she can leave.
Prince in Disguise – Dylan’s older sister won the heart of a “prince” on the reality show, Prince in Disguise. Now Dylan is in Europe, at a castle, for her sister’s wedding. The cameras are still rolling, and Dylan wants no part of it. Only Jamie is making any part of this tolerable. THIS BOOK! Oh my goodness. I ADORED this book! I’ll be reviewing this on Thursday – you’ll have to come back then. This could be my favorite book of the year.

Books for Adults

Barna Trends 2018: What’s New and What’s Next at the Intersection of Faith and Culture – The latest research findings from the Barna Group. I know it sounds geeky, but I love information like this. This would be cool to read!
Create Your Life Book: Mixed Media Art Projects for Expanding Creativity and Encouraging Personal Growth – This would be a cool project to kick of the new year.

Lots of Star Wars books coming our way this week, with the movie release only a few days away. Let’s take a look:

Books for Kids

Chewie and the Porgs – I can’t find much of a description for this one, but it looks adorable. I’m curious to see these Porgs in the movie and find out more about them.
The Superstar Story of the Harlem Globetrotters – I love the History of Fun Stuff (and Science of Fun Stuff) line of early readers. They are fantastic for young kids who are skilled readers. Also great for adults to read to curious kids. This particular one focuses on the Harlem Globtrotters.
The Fantastic and Terrible Fame of Classroom 13 – Book 3 in the Classroom 13 series. This time, the kids have a chance to be FAMOUS! But some things are just too good to be true. This sounds like a fun series for new chapter book readers.
Gimme Shelter – Book 5 in the hilarious Chicken Squad series. This quirky group of chicks is back, this time they are trying to build a storm shelter, but they find some unusual things along the way.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

Star Wars Cobalt Squadron – A new Last Jedi story for teens
Star Wars Rogue One Graphic Novel – The story of Rogue One in graphic novel form.
Star Wars The Last Jedi Cross-Sections – Take a closer look at the shops of The Last Jedi

Books for Adults

Bloodstains with Brontë – Book 2 in the Crimes with Classics series, after Arsenic with Austen (which was terrific!). This time, Emily is reading Brontë and finding parallels with the murder case in their midst. I loved the first book so much, this is at the top of my list for this week.
Case of Syrah Syrah – First in a new Wine Country mystery series starring a woman who runs a new business touring area wineries. When the leader of her latest tour group is found murdered, Taylor is a suspect. And the bodies continue to fall. I love trying out brand new mystery series. Looking forward to trying this one.
Ginger Snapped – Book 5 in the Spice Shop mystery series. Piper is prompted to action when local law enforcement – who has become a friend over the years – is suspected of murder.
Murder for the Books – First in the new Blue Ridge Library mystery series. This is an EXCELLENT book with several layers of mystery going on at once. I’ll be reviewing this one Wednesday. Be sure to check this one out.
Trouble with Murder – First in a new series. Trouble the cat is a big help to Colbie when she is suspected of the murder of the leader of the Sunnyside Power Moms. This was great, too. I’ll be reviewing this one next week.
Unnatural Causes – A doctor’s patient commits suicide  with a prescription – one the doctor doesn’t remember writing. Then the suicide is deemed a murder. First in a new series. Sounds like a great mystery.
Art of Star Was The Last Jedi – Coffee table book of the art of the latest Star Wars film.
This Child of Faith: Raising a Spiritual Child in a Secular World (Dec 14) –  Written along with a student who was in third grade at Sandy Hook on the day of the shooting. This releases on the 5th anniversary of the tragedy.
Healthy Meal Prep: Time-saving Plans to Prep And Portion Your Weekly Meals – Includes 12 weekly meal plans as well as how to prep for them and save yourself time.

2017 is whizzing by! Christmas will be here before you know it. Remember, you can see my book recommendations for everyone on your shopping list here.

Here are some of the books releasing this week that you may want to add to your personal wish list

Books for Kids

Mouseling’s Words – A mouse finds his purpose in life – discovering new words! And the library is a great place for him to work on his mission. This looks adorable!
The Very Very Very Long Dog – Look at that face! The cover art of this is adorable. I’ll be reviewing this one next week.
Pug vs Pug – Book 6 in the Puppy Pirates series.
Super Turbo and the Fire-breathing Dragon – The school pets are afraid the latest arrival is a fire-breathing dragon! Book 5 in this cute early chapter book series.

Books for Older Kids/Teens/Young Adults

League of Archers: The Stolen Crown – Book 2 in this series about a girl who gathers her League of Archers to continue the work of Robin Hood after his murder. I have book one on my TBR. Looking forward to reading both books!
Pollyanna – The classic story of Pollyanna, with new illustrations by Kate Hindley. The cover art is what caught my attention for this one. If you want to introduce this story to young readers, this looks like a great way to do that, with appealing artwork.
Little Leaders – An illustrated book of black women who have impacted American History. This  looks spectacular, and it has lots of positive reviews. Looking forward to reading this one.
Who Was Chuck Jones? – Biography of the animator for Bugs Bunny and friends
Who Was Coretta Scott King? – Biography of Civil Rights leader, Coretta Scott King, the wife of Martin Luther King Jr.
Who Was Jane Austen?– Biography of the author of Sense and Sensibility and Pride and Prejudice.
Ever the Brave – Book 2 in the Clash of Kingdoms, a series about a girl’s battles through various kingdoms and plots as she searches for the person responsible for her father’s death. I have book one on my TBR shelves. Looking forward to catching up on this series, too.
I Am Groot – Graphic novel collecting issues 1-5 of this series where little Groot is on his own, cut off from the rest of the Guardians.
Instructions for a Secondhand Heart – A boy looks for answers after a heart transplant, and he finds the twin sister of the heart donor. I’m sure this will be emotional, but it sounds terrific.
Ten Frames Per Second – Think about this one for the quirky teen – or adult –  in your life who loves clever, pop culture gifts!
Total Devotion – Devotional for teens

Books for Adults

And Death Goes To – Book 3 of the Tobi Tobias series about an advertising agent. This time, when the winner of an advertising award drops dead, Tobi works to find the murderer. I have read several of the author’s other books, but I haven’t tried this series – yet.
Bel Book and Scandal – Book 3 in the Bel McGrath series. This time, Bel looks into the cold case disappearance of her friend, Amy. This is another series I haven’t gotten to yet, but I’d like to try this one. I love this sort of mystery.
Canto Bight – Part of the Journey to The Last Jedi series of Star Wars materials. Takes place in the casino city of Canto Bight. This book includes 4 stories set in the city.
Comic Sans Murder – Book 3 in the Dangerous Type Mystery series centered around a typewriter and book repair shop. In this story, a horror writer is in town and the gang stumbles on a gruesome death. I have the first book in this series on my TBR shelves. I think 2018 may need to be my “catch up” year!
Crime of Poison – Book 3 in the Silver Six Crafting Mystery series about a crafty group of retirees. I love the whole premise of this series! This is on the top of my mystery list.
Honey-Baked Homicide – Book 3 in the Down South Cafe Mystery series about a cafe owner, selling Southern comfort food and favorites. I enjoyed the first book in the series. In this book, a beekeeper is murdered and Amy is determined to find the culprit.
Live and Let Fly – Book 2 in the Kite Shop Mystery series about an Oregon shop owner. In this book, Emmy is a suspect in the death of a reality-TV star. I have book one on my TBR shelves.
The Art of Star Trek: The Kelvin Timeline – This coffee table book is on the top of my Christmas wish list! I love all things Star Trek, and I can’t wait to see this Art of book in person.
Hand Lettering 201 – An Intermediate lettering instruction book by Chalkfulloflove. I put the first book on my Christmas list; I’m always looking for ways to improve my crummy handwriting.
Hello Mornings: How to Build a Grace-Filled, Life-Giving Morning Routine  – This book introduces a “powerful” three-minute morning routine to start your day right, with Bible study, planning and fitness. I am curious to see if this can deliver what it promises. I’ve put this on my library list.