Book ~ "Blood Typed" (2026) Jane Doucet

From Goodreads ~ Welcome to the NOVA Prize gala dinner, where one Nova Scotian author will go home with the $100,000 grand prize ... unless they don't go home at all.

Val Jenkins is stuck. A journalist for the Halifax Post, she's been writing a local books column for over a decade. But ever since she was a precocious Nancy Drew wannabe, she's longed to cover the crime beat.

When the gala ceremony approaches for the annual NOVA Prize, one of the most prestigious literary awards in Canada, Val anticipates more of the same old thing: authors in various interpretations of "formal" wear, hiding their simmering jealousies while dreaming of the life-changing prize money. But this year, something happens that no one could have expected.

Murder.

The off-beat cast of shortlisted authors each has their own secrets and grudges to hide: the well-published romance writer Sonya King; Victor Comeau, a narcissistic professor with delusions of grandeur; Sally MacPhee, a terminally ill writer who just wants to add "award-winning" to her bio; and Alexander Fitzgerald, a literary darling who has the Canada Revenue Agency on his back.

Rounding out the cast are an embittered editor with dreams of authorship, an octogenarian bookie with indigestion, a pair of homicide detectives hot on the case, and one nosy historical portrait. 

This story follows Val, a journalist for the Halifax Post who has spent years covering the local literary scene while hoping for the opportunity to report on crime. Val is assigned to cover the annual NOVA Prize gala, a prestigious Nova Scotia literary award with a $100,000 prize. The event brings together four shortlisted authors, judges, publishers, editors and other members of the province's literary community. Beneath the formal atmosphere, many of the attendees have personal rivalries, financial problems and professional grievances. 

During the gala, a murder interrupts the proceedings, turning the awards ceremony into a crime scene. As police investigate, Val begins gathering information on her own, hoping to prove she is capable of covering more than book news. Her inquiries reveal connections among the suspects and uncover hidden motives, past conflicts and long-held secrets within the literary community. 

I've read a few novels by this author and thought this one was okay. It's a quick read. I liked that it's set in Nova Scotia. It's written in third person perspective from a variety of characters. I thought the banter between Val and Kevin, her boss, was fun. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "Fearless As Possible: Under the Circumstances" (2016) Denise Donlon

From Goodreads ~ In this memoir, Denise Donlon recounts her journey as a corporate leader at the forefront of the massive changes in the Canadian music and media industries. 

One of Canada’s most celebrated and dynamic corporate leaders and broadcasters, Denise Donlon has long been recognized as a trailblazer in the Canadian cultural industries. "In Fearless as Possible: Under the Circumstances", Donlon chronicles her impressive and storied career at MuchMusic, Sony Music Canada and CBC English Radio, which put her at the forefront of the massive changes in the music industry and media. 

Throughout her incredible journey, she shares colourful and entertaining stories of growing up tall, flat and bullied in east Scarborough; interviewing musical icons such as Keith Richards, Run-DMC, Ice-T, Joni Mitchell, Neil Young, Annie Lennox and Sting; and detailing her life-changing experiences with War Child Canada, Live8 and the Clinton Giustra Enterprise Partnership. 

This memoir is about Donlon's life and career in Canada's music, television and broadcasting industries. She starts by sharing stories from her childhood in Scarborough and explains how those early experiences helped shape her confidence and career path. The book then follows her rise at MuchMusic, where she went from working behind the scenes to becoming General Manager. Along the way, she describes interviewing well-known musicians, helping create popular music programs and witnessing the growth of MuchMusic into a major part of Canadian pop culture. Donlon then tells about her time as President of Sony Music Canada, where she dealt with the music industry's shift to digital technology and changing consumer habits. She also discusses leading CBC English Radio during a period of budget cuts, organizational change and evolving audience expectations. 

Throughout the memoir, Donlon mixes stories from her professional life with personal experiences, including her marriage to Murray McLauchan, raising a family and supporting charitable organizations such as War Child Canada. The book highlights the challenges, opportunities, and major changes she encountered over the course of her career in Canadian media and entertainment.

For the most part I found this book interesting. I like reading bios/autobios and memoirs, especially about Canadians. I watched MuchMusic when it launched in 1984 so learning more about Donlon and her MuchMusic era was interesting. She dropped a lot of familiar names from  MuchMusic's past and I'd often stop and Google to see where they are today. I was less interested when she talked about working at Sony and CBC Radio (which I've never listened to). There was a lot of detail (it's 754 pages!) so I skimmed through those chapters. I liked that there were pictures scattered throughout the book. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "The Beatle Bandit" (2021) Nate Hendley

From Goodreads ~ On July 24, 1964, twenty-four-year-old Matthew Kerry Smith disguised himself with a mask and a Beatle wig, hoisted a semi-automatic rifle, then held up a bank in North York, Ontario.

The intelligent but troubled son of a businessman and mentally ill mother, Smith was a navy veteran with a young Indigenous wife and a hazy plan for violent revolution.

Outside the bank, Smith was confronted by Jack Blanc, a former member of the Canadian and Israeli armies, who brandished a revolver. During a wild shootout, Blanc was killed, and Smith escaped - only to become the object of the largest manhunt in the history of the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force.

Dubbed “The Beatle Bandit,” Smith was eventually captured, tried and sentenced to hang. His murderous rampage had tragic consequences for multiple families and fuelled a national debate about the death penalty, gun control, and the insanity defense.

I like reading true stories, especially Canadian, and this one is about the life and crimes of Matthew Kerry Smith, a Canadian bank robber whose actions became the focus of national attention in the 1960s. 

The book centres on Smith's July 24, 1964, robbery of a bank in North York, Ontario, where he disguised himself with a mask and a Beatle-style wig. The robbery ended in a street gunfight with Jack Blanc, a military veteran who confronted Smith after obtaining a firearm from the bank. Blanc was killed and Smith escaped, prompting what became one of the largest manhunts in the history of the Metropolitan Toronto Police Force. 

Hendley traces Smith's background, including his family life, military service, personal relationships and earlier criminal activity, drawing on court transcripts, police records, newspaper accounts, interviews and other historical documents. It follows Smith's capture, trial and conviction, with attention to the arguments surrounding his mental health and criminal responsibility. The book also explores the broader impact of the case, describing how it contributed to public and political discussions in Canada about gun control, the insanity defence, capital punishment and the use of firearms in banks. At the end of the book, the author tells what happened to everyone, including Smith's family. 

I thought this was an interesting story, especially since it happened here in Toronto.  It was obvious the author did a lot of research.  I liked the writing style ... there was just enough information provided without being too detailed. 

Book ~ "Diddly Squat: A Year on the Farm" (2021) Jeremy Clarkson

From Goodreads ~ Welcome to Jeremy's farm. It's an idyllic spot, offering picturesque views across the Cotswolds, bustling hedgerows, woodlands and natural springs. Jeremy always liked the idea being a farmer. But, while he was barrelling around the world having more fun with cars than was entirely reasonable, it seemed obvious that the actual, you know, farming was much better left to someone else.

Then one day he decided he would do the farming himself.

After all, how hard could it be?

Well ...

Faced with suffocating red tape, biblical weather, local objections, a global pandemic and his own frankly staggering ignorance of how to 'do farming', Jeremy soon realises that turning the farm around is going to take more than splashing out on a massive tractor.

Fortunately, there's help at hand from a large and (mostly) willing team, including girlfriend Lisa, Kaleb the Tractor Driver, Cheerful Charlie, Ellen the Shepherd and Gerald, his Head of Security and Dry Stone Waller. Between them they enthusiastically cultivate crops, rear livestock and hens, keep bees, bottle spring water and open a farm shop. But profits remain elusive.

And yet while the farm may be called Diddly Squat for good reason, Jeremy soon begins to understand that it's worth a whole lot more to him than pounds, shillings and pence.

Jeremy Clarkson is an English television presenter, journalist, columnist and author, best known for his work on motoring and, more recently, farming. 

This book follows Clarkson as he takes over the day-to-day management of his 1,000-acre farm in the Cotswolds during COVID after the previous farm manager retires. With little agricultural experience, Clarkson documents his first full year of farming, describing the challenges of learning an unfamiliar profession while dealing with changing weather, crop management, livestock, machinery, regulations and fluctuating market conditions. The book follows the seasonal cycle of the farm, from preparing fields and planting crops to harvesting and caring for sheep. He describes the financial realities of running a farm, including equipment costs, government policies and the impact of unpredictable events such as heavy rain, drought and market changes. 

I hadn't heard of Clarkson. This book caught my eye because of the content and I thought it would be fun and interesting ... and it was. This book apparently draws from his weekly newspaper columns written at that time. Though there were many English references I wasn't familiar with (people, places and events), I liked it and the writing style. It is the first in a series (there are currently 5) and I'll continue to read the others.

Book ~ "Getting Away With Murder" (2026) Shari Lapena

From Goodreads ~ Jill and Ted adore their New York brownstone the way others adore their children. They have carefully, expensively, made every inch of it their own. It reflects who they are, their status and tastes. With the grand mahogany staircase and state-of-the-art kitchen, it is the stuff of glossy magazines and real-estate dreams. It is their sanctuary.

So when Ted’s inheritance runs out and he makes a bad investment, they panic. How can they protect their beloved home and enviable lifestyle?

The answer is obvious. Or at least, it is obvious to Jill and Ted. The death of one wealthy family member - from whom they stand to inherit millions - could solve all their problems. Together, they will get away with murder.

As long as they trust each other.

As long as neither makes a mistake.

As long as there are no surprises.

Married couple, Jill and Ted, are suddenly faced with losing the wealthy lifestyle they've always enjoyed. Desperate to avoid financial disaster, they come up with a plan to kill a rich family member and collect the inheritance. What seems like the perfect crime quickly starts to fall apart. As the police investigate and people around them begin asking questions, Jill and Ted find themselves dealing with suspicion, secrets and unexpected complications. Keeping the truth hidden becomes harder and harder as the pressure builds and they must decide how far they're willing to go to protect themselves.

I’ve read a few books by this author and thought this one was okay. I liked the writing style. It’s told in third person and shifts focus among several characters. It was interesting knowing right away what Jill and Ted had done and to whom. We see how things don't go as planned and how they scramble. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "So Fetch: The Making of Mean Girls" (2024) Jennifer Keishin Armstrong

From Goodreads ~ From the author of "Seinfeldia" comes the totally fetch story of one of the most iconic teen comedies of all time, "Mean Girls", revealing how it happened, how it defined a generation, “like, invented” meme culture, and why it just won’t go away, filled with exclusive interviews from the director, cast and crew. 

Get in, loser. We’re going back to 2004. It’s been 20 years since "Mean Girls"  hit theaters, winning over critics and audiences alike with its razor-sharp wit, star-making turns for its then unknown cast, and obsessively quotable screenplay by Tina Fey. Fast forward two decades and "Mean Girls"  remains as relevant as ever. 

Arguably, no other movie from the 2000s has had as big of an impact on pop culture. In "So Fetch", Armstrong offers the first ever authoritative book about this beloved classic that shaped an entire generation. Based off revealing interviews with the director, cast, and crew, "So Fetch"  tells the full story of the making of "Mean Girls", from Tina Fey’s brilliant adaptation of a self-help guide for parents of teen girls, to the challenges of casting Lindsay Lohan, Rachel McAdams and the iconic supporting players. "So Fetch"  also explores the film’s lasting cultural influence, from its role in the rise of Y2K tabloid culture, impact on girls of all ages and lgbtq+ culture, to how we use it to define female relationships to this day.

So Fetch: The Making of Mean Girls explores the creation and lasting cultural impact of the 2004 film Mean Girls. Drawing on interviews with cast members, filmmakers, writers, producers and others involved in the production, the book traces the movie's journey from conception to release.

The book examines how screenwriter Tina Fey adapted Rosalind Wiseman's nonfiction book Queen Bees and Wannabes into a screenplay, the casting process, filming, behind-the-scenes stories and the challenges faced during production. It also discusses the contributions of the cast and crew, the film's marketing, its box office performance and its influence on popular culture.

In addition to covering the original film, the book follows the evolution of the Mean Girls franchise, including the Broadway musical adaptation and the 2024 musical film. Throughout, Armstrong documents how the movie became a cultural phenomenon and maintained its relevance with new generations of audiences more than two decades after its release.

I've seen Mean Girls many times and like it so I thought a book giving the background about it would be interesting ... and it was. I found there was just enough detail for me. I didn't realize there was such a strong Toronto connection. Many of the minor roles were cast in Toronto and some of the filming took place here, including the school that used to be just north of the Dufferin Mall (now gone and being replaced by condos) and the Dufferin Mall itself.

Book ~ "The Night We Met" (2026) Abby Jimenez

From Goodreads ~ In everyone’s life, there’s a split-second decision that can change everything.

For Larissa, it came when choosing which guy to ride home with after a concert. That night, she had no idea she’d met the perfect man. She and Chris are great together, co-parenting a slightly unhinged rescue Yorkie, sharing their favorite books and judging bread (pumpernickel for the win!). For the first time amid all her side hustles to scrape by, things finally feel easy.

But Chris isn't the one who drove Larissa home all those months ago - Chris is her boyfriend's best friend. All Chris wants is for Larissa to be happy. Standing by on the sidelines is slowly killing him but making a move would destroy someone else. And he’s just not that guy.

Larissa's life changes because of a single decision. After attending a concert with a friend, she's offered a ride home by two different men ... best friends Mike and Chris. She chooses Mike and they begin a serious relationship. As time goes on, she gets to know Chris better. Although they'd only briefly met before, Larissa and Chris discover they have a strong connection and many shared interests. Their friendship continues to grow and they find themselves co-parenting a rescue dog.

As Larissa and Mike's relationship becomes more serious, Chris finds himself caring for Larissa more than he should. But Mike is his best friend so he keeps his feelings to himself. Meanwhile, Mike is struggling with demons and Chris is constantly covering for him and trying to fix the problems he leaves behind.

I liked this story and found it to be an easy read. It's written in alternating first-person perspectives from Larissa and Chris, with each chapter labeled. I did find Larissa and Mike to be an unusual couple, as they didn't seem to have much in common. I was also surprised that Mike never seemed bothered by how much time Larissa and Chris spent together. Another thing I found a bit unrealistic was that Larissa never seemed to notice everything Chris did to protect and support her. As a head's up, there is lots of swearing.

Book ~ "Marriage Vow Murder" (2019) Leslie Langtry

From Goodreads ~ Wedding Traditions as good as gold ... Let’s start out with Something Old ...

When this creepy message is found with an elderly, murdered florist in the first pew of a church the day before Merry Wrath's wedding, her hopes wilt like day old, discount flowers. And when the groom, Rex, vanishes into thin air, she can only assume the worst - and she’s not talking about the ugly, Vegas showgirl-like flower girl dresses her Girl Scout troop have picked out.

Weddings make a family of two ... Let’s add in Something New ...

The clues come with diabolically difficult puzzles so Merry enlists the help of her former 4th grade teacher - a champion puzzler - while she turns the town upside down, in a frantic search for her fiancé. Once a surprising past is revealed, it doesn’t take long for the investigation to spin out of control faster than ten fourth-graders high on Pixy Stix on a merry-go-round.

With many suspects, few leads, and the clock ticking, will Merry find her groom in time for a happily ever after?

Merry is a former CIA agent who loved her job and was very good at it. But when her identity is exposed three years ago, she was forced into early retirement, given a severance package and told to start over somewhere new. She returns to her small hometown in Iowa, where her best friend, Kelly, still lives. Together they run a Girl Scout troop while Merry tries to adjust to a much quieter life. She's engaged to Rex, a police officer, who lives across the street.

As Merry prepares to marry Rex, a murder disrupts the wedding plans when the town florist is found dead in the church where the ceremony is scheduled to take place. This it's discovered that Rex has disappeared. Investigating both events, Merry discovers that the murder and Rex's disappearance are linked. Following a series of clues, riddles and hidden connections, she works to identify the killer and locate Rex before the wedding day arrives. 

This is the ninth in the Merry Wrath mystery series (there are currently 36). It can be read as a stand alone but it's better to read them in order. It's written in first person perspective in Merry's voice so we can to hear her thoughts (and she has a lot!). I liked the writing style ... it was conversational as if Merry was speaking to us. 

I've been reading these books in order and thinking they are okay but I wasn't crazy about this one. Rex has disappeared the day before his wedding and no one seems overly concerned that he is missing. I don't find this to be realistic ... I'd be freaking out if if was me. Merry's parents had come to town for the wedding and head back home when the wedding doesn't happen like it was no big deal. And Dooley's constant eating is getting old. Every second he's in the story he's eating eating eating. He's a police officer so you'd think someone would have a chat about how to act professional but no one does. Finally I found the story and whodunnit and why convaluted.

Despite my not liking this one, I'll keep moving forward with the series.

Book ~ "Call me Dave: Behind the Counter with Dave Thomas, Founder of Wendy's" (2026) Denny Lynch

From Goodreads ~ Dave Thomas turned a boyhood dream of owning a hamburger stand into a worldwide success story. He proved that honesty, integrity, friendliness and hard work never go out of style. Denny Lynch, Dave's close friend and former Wendy's SVP of communications, offers an intimate look at the man behind the apron, tracing Dave's rise from a determined young busboy to one of America's most beloved spokesmen. 

Featuring personal reflections and anecdotes from his wife, daughters, employees, friends, and Wendy herself, "Call Me Dave" explores Dave's quest to build the nation's best hamburger chain while staying true to his principles. Dave never forgot where he came from and created a second legacy-the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption - dedicated to finding loving homes for more than 130,000 children lingering in the foster care system.

I like reading memoirs and bios/autobios. Dave Thomas seemed like a nice fella and I figured he would have an interesting story.  This book is written someone who spent a lot of time with him professionally and personally.

This book tells the story of Dave Thomas (1932 - 2002), who founded Wendy's. It follows Dave's journey from a tough childhood ... he was adopted, lost his mother at a young age and never finished high school ... to becoming one of America's most successful entrepreneurs. Along the way, we learn how his strong work ethic, common-sense approach to business and genuine care for people helped him build Wendy's into a global brand. The book doesn't just focus on Dave's business successes but also his personal missions such as starting the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. 

The author shares stories that highlight Dave's humility, sense of humor and belief in treating employees and customers with respect. The book also explores his passion for adoption advocacy, a cause that was deeply personal to him.

I liked this book. I enjoyed the writing style and getting to know Dave. It seems that he was likeable but firm and fair. I appreciate that all author profits are being donated to the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption, continuing Dave's lifelong mission to find every child a forever home.

Book ~ "Dead Men Don't Play Fetch" (2026) David Rosenfelt

From Goodreads ~ It’s defense lawyer Andy Carpenter’s dream to retire. That goal is once again thwarted when he gets a call from Lou, an old friend who he simply cannot refuse, asking for a favor. Lou runs a rehab center, and when one of his patients, a homeless vet, is charged with first degree murder, he needs Andy's help. And of course, Andy will also be called on to care for the accused’s dog, but that’s okay, what's one more dog?

The man that Jason Maddox is accused of stabbing to death is none other than billionaire Paul Vincent, an eccentric businessman and inventor. Bickert dedicated a great portion of his life to philanthropy, with a soft spot for dog-related causes. This led him to befriend Jason, a physicist and war hero, whose life fell apart to the point where he ended up on the streets with his dog, just trying to survive.

But why would Jason possibly have wanted to kill him? Well, for one thing, he was to receive a fortune in Vincent's will. That, coupled with the fact that Jason was at the scene, his fingerprints were on the knife, and Vincent's wallet was in his jacket, made it a slam dunk arrest.

Once again, Andy is enmeshed in a puzzling, twisty case. But in order to reunite a man and his dog, Andy will have to untangle it all.

Andy Carpenter is a criminal defense lawyer who doesn't really want any clients. Thanks to the money his father left him and a few lucrative cases over the years, he can afford to spend most of his time running the Tara Foundation, a dog rescue he founded with his friend Willie. He's happily married to Laurie, they have a teenage son, Ricky, and share their home with three dogs. 

Jason Maddox, a homeless veteran and recovering addict, is accused of killing wealthy businessman, Paul Vincent. The evidence against Jason is overwhelming ... he was found at the scene, his fingerprints are on the weapon and he appears to have a financial motive. Despite this, Jason insists he's innocent and Andy agrees to defend him because he has a dog and as a favour to a friend.

While investigating the case, Andy discovers that things are more complicated than they first appear. With help from his team, he digs into Vincent's background, uncovers secrets and hidden connections, and searches for the real story behind the murder. Andy works to clear his client's name and uncover the truth about who killed Paul Vincent and why so he can be reunited with his dog, Hope, who is being taken care of by Willie.

This is the 33rd book in the Andy Carpenter series. I've read them all and I'm still enjoying them. While there are references to previous books, this one works well as a standalone so new readers can jump right in without feeling lost. The story is told primarily from Andy's first-person perspective and his observations are funny, sarcastic and amusing. 

I like Andy. He seems like he'd be a lot of fun to spend time with, and he's generous with both his time and his money. He never charges clients for his services and always picks up the tab for his friends at his favourite restaurant, even when he's not there. Andy is the first to admit that he's a wimp, which is why he relies on the K-Team ... Laurie, a former police officer turned investigator, handles much of the legwork, Marcus has his own unique way of dealing with bad guys, Cory, another former police officer, rounds out the team along with his former police dog, Simon Garfunkel and Sam, Andy's accountant and computer hacker, who is always eager to get involved in the action whenever he can.

Book ~ "Mean Girl Murder" (2018) Leslie Langtry

From Goodreads ~ The Halloween Parade is coming up and former CIA agent-turned-suburbanite Merry Wrath’s Girl Scout Troop hopes to repeat a 1st place trophy for the 3rd year in a row. But when they find a dead woman dressed as a witch, a mysterious treasure and face a ruthless kidnapping, it looks like Merry’s in for a different kind of triple threat.

To add fuel to her bonfire, Mom’s in town - meaning Merry has to replace all that bullet-riddled furniture in the guest room - and wither her wedding date approaching, her groom-to-be's twin taxidermist sisters are insisting on doing the decorating.

Between her family fiascoes and a dead witch who was loathed by everyone in town, Merry's head is spinning faster than an apple in a bobbing barrel. Who wanted this mean girl dead? Will this Halloween end with a treat? Or has Merry been tricked?

Merry is a former CIA agent who loved her job and was very good at it. But when her identity is exposed, she’s forced into early retirement, given a severance package and told to start over somewhere new. She returns to her small hometown in Iowa, where her best friend, Kelly, still lives. Together they run a Girl Scout troop while Merry tries to adjust to a much quieter life. She's engaged to Rex, a police officer, who lives across the street.

During the town's Halloween festivities, Merry and her scouts discover the body of a woman who was not particularly well-liked by many people in the community. Despite promising Rex she'll stay out of it, as Merry looks into the murder, she uncovers plenty of suspects and finds herself dealing with other unexpected problems, including a possible treasure hunt and a kidnapping. At the same time, she is trying to prepare for her upcoming wedding. The story follows Merry as she works to piece together the clues behind the murder while juggling the many personal and community obligations that keep landing on her doorstep.

This is the eighth in the Merry Wrath mystery series (there are currently 36) and I liked it. It can be read as a stand alone but it's fun to read them in order. It's written in first person perspective in Merry's voice so we can to hear her thoughts (and she has a lot!). I liked the writing style ... it was conversational as if Merry was speaking to us. It was a quick fun read and I look forward to continuing on with the series.

Book ~ "Dreamer's Daughter: Surviving My Childhood and Raising My Father" (2026) Lori Thicke

From Goodreads ~ In a mining town where hope is as tapped out as the gold, a mother abandons her two children, leaving them in the custody of their free-spirited father. Colorful and larger-than-life, Dacker is a dreamer who fails spectacularly at everything except loving his kids. When they lose everything in a house fire, Dacker considers this the ultimate freedom and leads his children on a cross-country road trip that will force them to rely on his wits and dubious judgment. Amid the chaos, Lori must raise herself and her younger brother - and, on occasion, her father. When she strives for independence, she discovers that it’s hard to leave home when home has wheels and keeps following you around.

"Dreamer’s Daughter" is a life-affirming story about forgiving our parents - and ourselves. It’s a celebration of the love we find in even the most unconventional families, and how sometimes we need to leave home to find our way back.

I like reading memoirs and bios/autobios, especially when they happen here in Canada.

This is the author's memoir about growing up with a father who was loving and charismatic but rarely able to provide stability. After Lori and Brad, her younger brother, are abandoned by their mother, their father, Dacker, raises them on his own while chasing a series of big dreams and business ventures that rarely work out. As a result, the family moves frequently, struggles financially and lives an unpredictable lifestyle. The author often finds herself taking on adult responsibilities at a young age, helping care for her brother and, in many ways, looking after her father. Despite the challenges, she shares many adventures with him and has a deep bond with him. 

This memoir follows the author from childhood into adulthood as she tries to make sense of her unconventional upbringing, her relationship with her absent mother and the impact her father's choices had on her life.

I thought this book was okay. I found myself frustrated with the choices her father (whose brother was the late Alan Thicke's father) made and his belief that everything would work out (sometimes it did but usually it didn't). I was also frustrated with the actions the author made as a teenager, though they can be excused since she was dealing with the bad decisions her parents had made. The memoir ends in 1986 as she is heading off to Paris, Dacker had driven to Mexico and Brad was living on Vancouver Island. It would have been nice to have a summary chapter at the end to let us know what happened to her, Dacker and Brad in the last 40 years. As a head's up, there is swearing and drug use.

Book ~ "Brassy Bit of Aging Crumpet: A Memoir in Pieces" (2026) Mary Walsh

From Goodreads ~ In this sharply observed and wryly funny collection of essays on identity, family, and belonging, Mary Walsh takes readers on a rollicking—and sometimes difficult, but never boring—journey through her life. Her subjects range from the heartbreak of growing up next door to her family, to Newfoundland’s vibrant and not altogether happy entry into the Canadian confederation, to the behind-the-scenes of her wildly popular CBC shows, including This Hour Has 22 Minutes, to her complicated relationship with her complicated mother, and to her struggles with alcohol, self-doubt, and what it means to connect with those around her. 

The result is a collection of essays that are deftly comical, vividly rendered, heartachingly vulnerable and, above all, hopeful. In the end, Mary learns the trials and hurdles (some self-inflicted) that she endured in her younger years only make the process of aging all the sweeter. The message she now has is a powerful her older years are her best ones yet, because she’s finally learned to accept who she is.

This memoir is a series of personal essays. It explores key moments from Walsh’s life, including her childhood in Newfoundland, her family relationships, her experiences in Canadian entertainment and her personal struggles with alcohol and self-doubt. 

With the essays, Walsh reflects on themes of identity, belonging, family, aging and personal growth. She tells of memories of growing up, examines her relationship with her mother, and discusses Newfoundland’s history and place within Canada. The memoir also includes behind-the-scenes accounts of her work on CBC productions, including "This Hour Has 22 Minutes". 

The essays combine personal stories with reflections on the challenges and experiences that shaped her life. She traces her journey from childhood and early adulthood to later life, focusing on the events, relationships and experiences that influenced her understanding of herself and the world around her.

I like reading memoirs and bio/autobio and I like Mary Walsh, a Canadian actress, comedian and writer. I figured she would tell an interesting story and she did. I knew nothing about her childhood and most of the events that happened must have been traumatising. I'm glad she's been able to find peace and living life as she wants. Though it's written in essay format, not a style I usually enjoy, I liked the writing style and this book. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "The High Road: Confessions of a Homicide Cop" (2026) Hank Idsinga

From Goodreads ~ From the age of ten, Hank Idsinga knew he wanted to become a homicide detective, when he learned that his grandfather had been murdered by the Nazis in the Second World War. He prepared to be a police officer his entire youth and soon found himself in ill-fitting suits training for the job. More than competent - smart, incisive, caring, respectful - Idsinga ingratiated himself to his fellow officers and to his superiors. He was as capable of tracking down a getaway man as he was informing a mother that her son, lost to crime, would never return home. Idsinga found himself at the center of some of the most notable crimes in recent Toronto history, from the Jane Creba shooting on Boxing Day to shootouts on Yonge Street to helping track down some of the most vicious serial criminals the city has ever seen.

But it was in homicide that Hank Idsinga would prove such a vital asset to the Toronto Police Services. Idsinga teamed up with his partners, including future chief of police Mark Saunders, on many murder calls - some one-offs, others more nefarious - taking in the scene with his excellent recall, finding the motive and the method faster and more insightfully than most. Idsinga and his team of seasoned detectives participated in taking down some of the worst Toronto has to offer, perhaps none more so than serial killer Bruce McArthur, who had terrorized the gay village for years. Idsinga became the public face for that investigation, and despite the criticism of the police force’s handling of the murders, Idsinga always appeared strong and compassionate in front of the media’s camera flashes.

I like reading memoirs and bios/autobios and also true crime. This memoir was especially interesting because it happened here in Toronto. 

Hank Idsing is a former Toronto homicide detective who spent three decades with the Toronto Police Service. This book traces his journey from a childhood decision to become a detective after learning that his grandfather was murdered during the Holocaust to eventually leading one of Canada's most prominent homicide units. Idsinga talks about his career investigating murders, gang violence, shootings and serial homicide cases in Toronto. He describes the realities of police work, the challenges of solving complex crimes and the emotional impact that violent deaths have on victims' families, investigators and communities.

This memoir also talks about several high-profile Toronto cases, including the investigations surrounding the murders committed by serial killer Bruce McArthur, for which Idsinga became a public spokesperson. I remember most of the cases he spoke about so it was interesting to get the inside scoop on them. He also mentions the racism and favouritism that exists within the police force. I liked the writing style. I found it to be honest and interesting. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "I'm Not the Only Murderer in My Retirement Home" (2026) Fergus Craig

From Goodreads ~ Carol is delighted to be leaving her tiny prison cell behind to take her place in a luxury retirement home. She's hoping her past as a serial killer won't come to light so she can make a few friends and find some murder-free hobbies. But it's not long before a fellow resident - who happens to be a former police commissioner - drops dead, and Carol's true identity is leaked - making catching up over daily activities of bingo and baking rather awkward.

Just her luck, Carol soon realizes that the victim wasn't the only former law enforcement officer at Sheldon Oaks - it's filled to the brim with former cops, barristers and government representatives, her newfound friends included. And everyone thinks Carol's guilt is a no-brainer but she is ready to prove them dead wrong ... without killing anyone, for once.

Carol is a 75-year-old woman who has just been released from prison after serving decades for a series of murders committed in her younger years. Determined to leave that chapter of her life behind, she moves into Sheldon Oaks, an upscale retirement community, hoping to enjoy a quiet and uneventful retirement. Carol quickly discovers that fitting in isn't easy. Many of the residents have backgrounds in politics, law enforcement and public service, and when her criminal past becomes known, she finds herself viewed with suspicion. Things get even more complicated when a fellow resident is found dead under suspicious circumstances. 

Because of her history, Carol becomes an obvious suspect in the eyes of many around her. To clear her name, Carol begins investigating the murder herself. As she digs deeper, she uncovers hidden tensions, long-held grudges and unexpected secrets among the retirement home's residents. She also forms unlikely friendships with several fellow seniors (Geoffrey, Catherine and Margaret), each with their own unique personalities and histories. 

This was a cute story and funny in parts (like the manscaping discussion, for example). It's written in third person perspective with a focus on Carol, Geoffrey, Catherine and Margaret. It was interesting to read a story written from the point of view of seniors who are 70+ as they navigate today's world, especially for Carol who has been in prison for most of her life. I was okay with the whodunnits but not the ending. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "Searching for Terry Punchout" (2018) Tyler Hellard

From Goodreads ~ Adam Macallister's sportswriting career is about to end before it begins but he's got one last a Sports Illustrated profile about hockey's most notorious goon, the reclusive Terry Punchout - who also happens to be Adam's estranged father. 

Adam returns to Pennington, Nova Scotia, where Terry now lives in the local rink and drives the Zamboni. Going home means drinking with old friends, revisiting neglected relationships, and dealing with lingering feelings about his father and dead mother - and discovering that his friends and family are kinder and more complicated than he ever gave them credit for. 

"Searching for Terry Punchout" is a charming and funny tale of hockey, small-town Maritime life and how, despite our best efforts, we just can't avoid turning into our parents.

Adam is a struggling sportswriter living in Calgary whose career is falling apart. Hoping to revive it, he returns to his hometown of Pennington, Nova Scotia, to write a magazine profile about his estranged father, Terry Punchout, a former hockey enforcer known for his time in the penalty box. Terry now lives a quiet life driving the Zamboni at the local rink. As Adam reconnects with people from his past, he’s forced to deal with old family tensions, memories of his mother and the complicated relationship he has with his dad.

This book came to my attention because of the recent Canada Reads. I like reading Canadian fiction plus I'm originally from Nova Scotia. I liked this story and some of the characters reminded me of people "back home". I liked the writing style and it's a quick read. It's written in first person perspective in Adam's voice. It could have been edited better as there are typos and there are two chapter fours, though the content for the second chapter four is actually for chapter five. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "The Armchair Detectives on Holiday" (2026) Matt Dunn

From Goodreads ~ Fresh from their last case at Twilight Lodge, Martin and Albie reward themselves with a relaxing trip to the sun-soaked island of Menorca.

But when they head down to breakfast one morning, they happen upon a panicked husband reporting his wife, bestselling author Karen Squires, missing. Soon afterwards they’re shocked to discover Karen’s body on the beach.

Local police call it a tragic accident: one look at the broken safety fence on the cliffs above suggests Karen fell. But the victim’s perfectly-manicured nails tells Martin that this was no accident. She was pushed.

Back at the hotel, the duo discover that Karen was running a retreat for writers, all of whom seem shocked by her untimely passing. But which one of them may have had a motive for murder? Was a fellow writer jealous of her success? Did her devoted husband feel sidelined?

As they hunt for clues, they realise that the answer may be found in one of Karen’s bestsellers and luckily for them, Albie’s girlfriend, Barbara, is her number one fan. A killer is hiding in plain sight. But to get to them, can they separate the fact from the fiction before it’s too late?

Martin is in his mid-80s and a widower, who recently had hip surgery and had checked into Twilight Lodge, a seaside care home to recuperate. There he ran into his old partner, wheelchair-bound Albie, who was also at the home. They both had worked for “The Company” (something very spy-like). Martin takes Albie, Dionne, his daughter, and Custard, his late wife's dog, on vacation to Menorca for a week. 

One morning, Martin and Albie meet David, who is in a panic because he can't find his wife, Karen,  a famous author. They are at a writers' resort at the same hotel Martin where is staying. Martin and Albie offer to help look for her and find her at the bottom of a cliff. The local police assume she fell but something doesn't look right to Martin and Albie and they start investigating.

This was a fun story. It was interesting to have it written from the first person perspective of a mid-80s man as he doesn't have a clue about today's technology (for example, he doesn't own a cell phone and confuses "Zumba" with "Zooming"). It's a cozy mystery so there is no swearing or violence. The interactions between Martin and Albie were cute. There are lots of red herrings and I was okay with the whodunnit (I had figured it out). It's the second in the Armchair Detectives series (I'd read the first one last year) and I look forward to reading more in the future.

Book ~ "Dogs, Boys, and Other Things I’ve Cried About" (2026) Isabel Klee

From Goodreads ~ A Jersey girl by birth, Isabel Klee had always wanted to live in New York City. At age 20, she got her chance, ditching her college upstate and moving into a grungy basement apartment in Manhattan. Dog-obsessed since childhood, her first post-grad job was becoming an assistant to a dog photographer, and something clicked into place: a career focused on helping dogs was the new dream.

Isabel quickly found a passion for rehabilitating rescue dogs and helping them get adopted. At the same time, she was caught up in a whirlwind of friendships, parties, fickle boyfriends and grand romances, which she recounts in honest, tender and sometimes devastating chapters about the search for love and belonging.

Isabel’s first true love, though, was Simon, a fluffy puppy who’d been saved from the meat trade. As the highs and lows of her twenties hit Isabel in wave after wave, it was Simon who kept her grounded. Together, Isabel and Simon created a community of dog-lovers and a tight-knit group of friends pursuing their dreams.

In this honest and moving memoir, Isabel weaves together the stories of her foster dogs—and the challenges she helped them overcome - with tales of complicated relationships, hard decisions and great loves in New York City, all leading to a happy ending not only for the rescue pups, but for Isabel herself.

I've never heard of Isabel Klee or this book but I saw it was an Indigo pick of the month. I like memoirs and reading about dogs (and animals) so thought I'd check it out, especially since I volunteer with a cat rescue and a charitable organization dedicated to ageing dogs. 

I enjoyed the parts about her putting her hand up to foster dogs who had issues and socializing them for adoption. I didn't find her overly likeable, though, and it got tiresome hearing the details of all her broken romances and dating adventures, which took up the bulk of the book. Against her better judgement, she moved in with men who professed they loved her and she loved them but then she would end up moving out because she was their whole world.

The editing could have been tighter. At one point, she talks about Ruby, the family dog when she was growing up, who passed away when she was 16 and then just three paragraphs later, she says she was 17 when Ruby passed away. The timeline jumps around so sometimes I found it confusing when things were happening. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "Road Trip" (2026) Mary Kay Andrews

From Goodreads ~ Maeve and Therese Dunigan haven’t spoken in years. Raised under the same roof in Savannah, the two sisters could not be more opposite - Maeve the rule follower, Therese the unapologetic rebel. But when their mother’s death pulls them back together, they inherit more than just grief: a mysterious painting that may be worth millions ... if it’s real.

Determined to uncover the truth - and desperately in need of the money - the sisters set out on a journey to Ireland, tracing their family’s roots and the origins of the portrait. What begins as a search for answers soon becomes something deeper - a reckoning with the past, as they uncover secrets that span generations and reshape everything they thought they knew about their family.

With tensions simmering, the two hit the road and find themselves on twisty lanes, in colorful villages, at local pubs and with handsome men whose gift of the gab is surpassed only by their charm.

Thirty-something sisters Maeve and Therese haven’t been close for years. After their mother dies, they find out that instead of splitting the family home, they discover their mother had taken out a second loan and there's almost $400,000 owing. In addition to inheriting is a painting that could be valuable (if it's real), their mother also left them a coffee can with a small amount of money with the stipulation that they use the cash to take a trip to Ireland to figure out the painting’s history and learn more about their family’s past. When they arrive in Ireland, the sisters deal with old tensions, unexpected discoveries and a mystery tied to their ancestors. Along the way, they meet new people, uncover long-buried secrets and slowly start to reconnect with each other.

I thought this story was okay. It was more serious than I was expecting from the description. It's not really a "road trip" as they don't venture much further from the town in Ireland Kathleen, their great grandmother, was originally from. It's written in third person perspective in Maeve, Theresa and Kathleen's voices. In the beginning, it jumps back and forth in time to Kathleen's time (which I found interesting) and the sisters' present time. I found it a bit draggy at times and could have been tighter. As a head's up, there is swearing and some adult activity.

Book ~ "Map Skills Murder" (2018) Leslie Langtry

From Goodreads ~ Summer is moving fast for ex-CIA Agent turned Girl Scout troop leader, Merry Wrath. Wedding plans are underway, with the groom's twin sisters on a mission to decorate the festivities with taxidermized animals and a full troop of flower girls with terrible taste in dresses. 

If that wasn’t enough to deal with, the Girl Scouts dig up a treasure map in Merry’s yard. A century ago, the mysterious axe murder of Mad Mimi and the secret of her missing treasure were never solved. Merry thinks this map could be the key ... but unfortunately, the investigation of this cold case - complete with a secret diary, gold bullion and a llama named Tinkles - yields a modern day murder! 

Are these crimes connected? And more importantly - who has an axe to grind with Merry Wrath?

Merry is a former CIA agent who loved her job and was very good at it. But when her identity is exposed, she’s forced into early retirement, given a severance package and told to start over somewhere new. She returns to her small hometown in Iowa, where her best friend, Kelly, still lives. Together they run a Girl Scout troop while Merry tries to adjust to a much quieter life.

While dealing with wedding planning and Rex, her fiancé’s unusual family, Merry’s troop discovers a treasure map buried in her yard. The map is tied to a century-old unsolved axe murder involving a woman named Mad Mimi and her missing treasure. As Merry investigates the old mystery, the search leads to a modern-day murder involving hidden clues, a diary and gold bars. Merry works to determine whether the past and present crimes are connected and who is responsible. During this Merry is wondering if she is making the right decisions with her life and missing the action from her life as a CIA agent.

This is the seventh in the Merry Wrath mystery series (there are currently 36) and I liked it. There were some odd things that I would have like more info on, though, and wondered why they were included in the story. Like what was the point of making such a big fuss about the hobby of the present day murder victim? It can be read as a stand alone but it's fun to read them in order. It's written in first person perspective in Merry's voice so we can to hear her thoughts (and she has a lot!). I liked the writing style ... it was conversational as if Merry was speaking to us. It was a quick fun read and I look forward to continuing on with the series.