Note to Shelf: January 2024

Created on January 3, 2024, 11:14 am

Last Updated January 5, 2024, 1:42 pm

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Maria says that, "The Mystery Guest by Nita Prose is a sheer delight. Molly Grant, head maid at the prestigious Regency Grand Hotel, adheres to the mantra, “Clean until perfection!” While training a new staff member, a famous author is murdered during their shift, and the entire staff becomes suspect. Coincidentally, Molly knew the author from her childhood. When she was little, she would accompany her grandmother who worked at his mansion. Could her knowledge and memories help to find clues? With an eye for details, Molly works tirelessly to solve the murder, save herself, as well as the reputation of the hotel. You will root for Molly throughout this wonderful cozy mystery!"
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Kiera asks, "What could inspire all but the most diehard Streisand fans to read 1,000 pages (or spend nearly 50 hours listening to the audiobook) of Barbra Streisand’s memoir, My Name is Barbra? After doing just that, I am confident saying that there is something for everyone in this long-awaited doorstopper of a work. For musical theater nerds, there are dishy, behind-the-scenes glimpses of some of Babs’ most beloved works. Film buffs will be awed by the impact and influence Streisand has had on the industry—not least of all the role of women behind the camera. Anyone with even a passing interest in celebrity gossip will be floored by the bevy of A-list names sprinkled into reminiscences that vary from eyebrow-raising to hilarious. It is a detailed, comprehensive examination of a phenomenal life and career, with an authenticity and humanity that rings true on every page. I could have listened to another 50 hours."
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Diane shares "Breakfast At Tiffany's by Truman Capote is a timeless classic that immerses readers into the glamorous and complex world of Holly Golightly. This novella unfolds through the eyes of an unnamed narrator (no doubt Truman), who befriends Holly and immediately becomes captivated by her mysterious charm. Originally a country girl from the South, Holly transforms herself into a sophisticated New York socialite. Capote's prose is masterfully crafted with wit, elegance, and character development as he portrays the contradictions within Holly's seemingly carefree facade. Set against the backdrop of the 1940's, the novella delves into themes of love, identity, and the pursuit of happiness. Breakfast At Tiffany’s is a compelling story that leaves an indelible mark on literature."
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Annette exclaims, "Jessica Knoll‘s latest novel Bright Young Women does not disappoint! This gripping novel is told from the perspective of two young women on opposite sides of the country and describes their connection to a serial killer in the 1970s. While rotating between the 70s and the present, Pamela, a key witness to one of the killer’s crimes, and Ruth, one of his murdered victims, each give bits and pieces of their personal stories, which provide insight into how they ultimately encountered the killer. By using vivid descriptions of life in the 1970s and by giving voices to the victims and families, Knoll’s riveting novel is a realistic portrayal of the effect of these types of horrific crimes. This is a great winter read!"
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Mary-Beth found that, "Listening to Arnold Schwarzenegger narrate his memoir, Be Useful: Seven Tools For Life is like having Arnold visit with you for a chat. The renowned actor and politician describes what he believes are the key tools in life (having a vision, goals, and always being useful and positive). He details the experiences and unique challenges he faced as a bodybuilder, Hollywood actor, and as the Governor of California. Arnold Schwarzenegger provides business insights, while adhering to the philosophy that one should not rest until achieving one's goals. The way Arnold wisely tells his stories is uplifting and entertaining. From start to finish this is a great listen! "
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“This fast-paced read has everything you could want in a thriller: secret identities, a mysterious boss and a cat & mouse game that kept me guessing the whole way through.”—Reese Witherspoon
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“A riveting, unsettling crime novel that will keep you turning pages well past your bedtime. Is Anna O a sleeping beauty or a sleeping killer? Matthew Blake's tension-filled thriller is as elusive and mysterious as sleep itself.”—Nita Prose, #1 New York Times author of The Maid and The Mystery Guest
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In this crime thriller from #1 New York Times-bestselling J.D. Robb, a small and easily concealed weapon wreaks havoc, and the killer is just a face in the crowd.
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A contentious intellectual piracy case leads to an unsolved murder, and Jack Swyteck’s client—a pop music icon—is the accused killer. - Amazon
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10) Diva
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New York Times bestselling author Daisy Goodwin returns with a story of the scandalous love affair between the most celebrated opera singer of all time and one of the richest men in the world.
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