Book ~ "Table Boss: How to Build a Restaurant When Your Life Falls Apart" (2026) Jen Agg

From Goodreads ~ Jen Agg had a thriving restaurant group, a beautiful marriage to a handsome artist husband and extremely good skin. If anyone could give advice on living well in your forties, it was her. Then, disaster struck. As a global pandemic threw the restaurant business into chaos, Jen’s husband, Roland, suffered a catastrophic stroke.

In her new memoir, Jen captures what it felt like to rethink everything just when she thought it was all working out as she’d planned. Table Boss makes you understand what Anthony Bourdain loved about her - her singular combination of wry humour, unflinching honesty and real depth. Readers will love the book for its painful rendering of what it’s like to care for a loved one through a health nightmare, its witty analysis of restaurant culture, and its insights into building a business on your own terms.

I like reading bios/autobios and memoirs. Agg is a Toronto restauranteur, many of her places are nearby, and from her descriptions, it sounds like she lives just north of me. I read her first book when it came out in 2017 and liked it.

This one is a personal account of what happens when life takes an unexpected turn. Agg writes about trying to keep her restaurant business going during the COVID-19 pandemic while dealing with a major personal crisis ... her husband, artist Roland Jean, suffered a stroke. 

The book follows Agg as she deals with the challenges of running restaurants while also becoming a caregiver to her husband and adjusting to a very different life than the one she had planned. She explores the impact of his stroke on their relationship, the realities of caregiving and the demands of keeping a business afloat during an incredibly uncertain time. 

Along the way, Agg discusses the restaurant industry, running a business, ambition, relationships and the role that food and hospitality play in our lives. She also touches on the challenges women face in the restaurant world and the realities behind building a successful restaurant. 

As with her first book, Agg has a mouth and she's not afraid to use it. I think you'd either like her or you wouldn't as she seems to have a strong personality but she also showed her vulnerability in her love of Roland. 

I eat out a fair amount and it was interesting to learn about the restaurant industry. I found it especially interesting to read about her views about the expectations as a customer of a restaurant ... friendly engaging staff, appropriate music, delicious food, etc. It does make a difference in the dining experience. When Gord and I were in Saint John last month, we had supper at a fairly nice restaurant and our server could have cared less about us. On the other hand, I had supper at a fairly nice restaurant here in Toronto a couple months ago with a friend and our server went above and beyond with her friendliness and taking care of us.

As a head's up, there is swearing (she likes to use the F-bomb frequently). There are lots and lots of colourful photos of food, her restaurants and more.

Book ~ "Swan Song: Diana, My Sister" (2026) Charles Spencer

From Goodreads ~ In September 1997, Charles Spencer stood in Westminster Abbey before a watching world and shared his grief at losing his beloved sister, Diana. Now, nearly thirty years later, he tells the astonishing story of his life with Diana and the tragic week of her death.

In childhood, Charles and Diana, the youngest Spencers, were inseparable – secretly calling one another Duch and Carlos. As each other’s closest confidantes, they roamed the family estate, endured extremely challenging boarding schools, survived terrifying nannies and helped each other through the agony of their parents’ divorce.

Yet everything changed when Diana married the Prince of Wales, now King Charles III, and overnight became a global icon. Charles saw his older sister serve the world’s marginalized and relish being mother to her treasured sons.

But pursued by a barbaric press as her royal marriage crumbled, she was left desperately alone. Charles always tried to be there for Diana – until that black night in August, 1997.

I like reading bios/autobios and memoirs and was curious about this one. It will be 30 years next year since Diana passed away ... I guess that's why he wrote it at this time.

It's Spencer's account of the life and death of his sister, Diana, Princess of Wales. He looks back on their childhood, their family life and the events that shaped Diana’s life, from her marriage to Prince Charles to her years in the public eye. He writes about Diana’s struggles within the Royal Family, her difficult marriage, her charitable work and the constant attention from the media. 

The book covers Diana’s final days, her death in Paris in 1997 and the events surrounding her funeral. Spencer shares his memories of the funeral arrangements, the decision to bury Diana at the family estate of Althorp and his experience of delivering the eulogy at Westminster Abbey. There is a great deal of time devoted to talking about the eulogy (it's even included a few times along with his handwritten version)!

Through personal memories and accounts of key events, Spencer offers a look at Diana’s life from the perspective of her brother, including their family history, her experiences as a royal and the circumstances surrounding her death and funeral.

I thought it was interesting and learned things I didn't know before. I thought the writing style was okay, though it's long. It bounced back and forth from the time period around when she passed away to their childhood. Not surprising, the royal family doesn't come off in a good light. I didn't find Spencer overly likeable but it was interesting to read how one lives when one is an earl and hanging out with royalty. I liked that there were photographs (about 12% of the book is devoted to them).

Book ~ "Tempted: My Story" (2026) Rick Campanelli and John Meyer

From Goodreads ~ “Though nothing came my way without a great deal of hard work, I’ve been incredibly fortunate in my life. Being a mostly open book in the public eye for over thirty years, people think they know me pretty well but it’s time for me to shed light on a few deep dark secrets that will shock many. 'Tempted' is a story of accomplishments and living life to the fullest but not without mistakes along the way. A cautionary tale of what can happen when you lose control. This is my full story, flaws and all.”

Rick Campanelli’s journey of winning a nationwide contest to become a MuchMusic VJ on the iconic Canadian music station launched him quickly from an unknown Hamilton kid to an on-air national superstar known as “Rick the Temp,” as his warm, affable personality won over millions of Canadians from coast to coast. But while in front of the camera his star was rising, behind the scenes all was not as it seemed. Revealed for the first time ever in Tempted, Campanelli shares the story of the secret demons he battled that nearly destroyed his life.

I like reading bios/autobios and memoirs. By the time Campanelli was on MuchMusic, I wasn't really watching it and haven't followed his life or career since. But I know who he is and was curious about his story. It's a quick read and I'm not sorry I read it.

Campanelli opens up about his rise to fame and the personal struggles he faced behind the scenes. He is/was known to Canadians as "Rick the Temp" and became known after landing a job as a VJ at MuchMusic in the 1990s. He went on to work in entertainment television, interviewing celebrities and building a successful broadcasting career. 

While things looked good on the outside, Campanelli was dealing with a serious gambling addiction. What started as an interest in winning eventually spiralled into compulsive gambling, mounting debts and difficult situations. For example, in 2008, he was detained by U.S. Homeland Security while returning from Las Vegas over unpaid casino debts. The memoir talks about how his addiction affected his finances, career and personal life.

It was interesting to read about his love of music and how creative he was to turn it into a career. I had watched MuchMusic so I enjoyed his descriptions of what it was like to work there and what it took to stay working in the industry. I recently read Denise Donlon's memoir so it was interesting to get another perspective of working there (they were at different levels). I also like reading about getting the inside scoop into the entertainment world and it sounds like Campanelli experienced quite a lot. 

I didn’t have an opinion of Campanelli before reading this book but I didn’t find him all that likeable by the end. I found his relevations quite surprising and unexpected. I’m not a gambler so I have a hard time understanding how someone can risk throwing everything away for the thrill. He seemed okay knowing he was potentially hurting people and would be pretty shady to get what he wanted/needed. 

While I appreciated his honesty, at times I thought he shared a little too much, especially when talking about his relationship with his first wife. I couldn’t help wondering how she felt about him airing their dirty laundry (like his cheating and having a "mistress") for everyone to read. What was also surprising is the lack of photographs, given what he does for a living. The only one is one the cover.

Book ~ "Bark Humbug" (2026) David Rosenfelt

From Goodreads ~ This time Andy is serious about retiring. Besides he can't hear the sound of his phone ringing over the football game. But when the local newspaper asks him to participate in their Christmas spread of local celebrities and their dogs, he pauses the game and brings Tara along for the ride.

When the photographer comes to take pictures of him and the dogs, he instead opens the door to Sharon Lowery, who devised the newspaper story just to get Andy's attention and beg him for help. Her brother, Jon, is wanted for murder and is on the run. However, if Andy agrees to hear Jon out, he'll turn himself in with the hope that Andy will represent him and reunite him with his dog.

It's a dangerous situation and between the media circus surrounding the murder and Jon's volatile position, Andy knows that when Jon is found, someone could get hurt. But Andy respects Sharon's dedication to her brother and in an effort to keep Jon - and the public - safe, Andy agrees to talk to Jon. Andy decides to help Jon and slowly uncovers a web of conspiracies. Determined to keep Jon out of jail, Andy gathers the crew to investigate.

Andy is a defense attorney who has been trying to retire so he can spend more time with his family, his dogs and the Tara Foundation. His plans change when Sharon Lowery approaches him for help. Her brother, Jon, is wanted for the murders of Paterson Mayor Craig Henley and Steven Tiller, a wealthy political donor. Jon is a former Marine and trained sniper, making him a convincing suspect. He had publicly confronted Henley and made angry statements about him. Evidence also appears to place Jon near the crime scene. Jon insists he is innocent and agrees to surrender if Andy will represent him.

Andy takes the case and begins investigating the evidence against Jon. With help from his team, he looks into the victims, their political connections and the people around them. As the investigation continues, Andy discovers that the murders are connected to corruption, hidden dealings and a larger criminal operation. The more Andy uncovers, the less straightforward the case becomes. Several people have reasons to hide the truth and Andy must determine how the murders were connected and who was actually responsible. 

This is the 34th 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, Andy's wife and 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 ~ "Not a Word" (2026) Linwood Barclay

From Goodreads ~ Every family has secrets but when Reece visits his parents’ house, he’s shocked to find them in bed, dead. At first glance it looks like a murder-suicide perpetrated by his father but on closer inspection there’s clearly more to the story. For starters, inconsistencies in the crime scene suggest his dad may not have shot himself.

As Reece, shaken by his horrifying discovery, awaits questioning from the police, his phone lights up with a call. It’s the last person he ever would have expected to hear from.

Reeling from the day’s events, Reece finds himself questioning everything he thought he knew about his parents - and whether he and his own family are in danger now. While the authorities work to untangle the baffling crime scene, Reece is pulled into a web of secrets linked to the unscrupulous pharma company his father worked for years ago.

In order to protect the people he loves most, he’ll have to dig deep into his own past to understand who his parents were, what they did and who they hurt - before he ends up paying for their sins.

When Reece goes to visit his father, Brent, he finds him dead in his bed. Beside him is a woman who appears to have been shot by Brent before he took his own life. At first Reece assumes it's his mother but then discovers his mother is actually alive. As Detective Janice McCabe investigates the apparent murder - suicide, it starts to appear that things aren't as they seem. Near the end of the story, Reece discovers what really happened to Brent and the secrets his family has been keeping.

I've read many of this author's books and thought this one was just okay. It was a bit convaluted with some coincidences. The ending (the whodunnit) was farfetched and disappointing and I wasn't buying it. It's written in first person perspective in Reece's voice and third person perspective when the focus is on everyone else. It moves back and forth between the present and 1999. I didn't find the characters overly likeable and thought a couple were extreme and unbelievable. Usually with this author, his stories are set in some small town in the States. I like that this one was set outside of Toronto and he didn't try to hide it. As a head's up, there is swearing.

Book ~ "You've Seen Me Before: Over 700 Roles and 70 Years in Hollywood" (2026) James Hong and Jeff Yang

From Goodreads ~ You might not know actor James Hong’s name but we can guarantee you’ve seen him before. With over seven hundred acting credits and counting, James is one of Hollywood’s most prolific actors and a pioneer in Asian American entertainment.

Born to Chinese immigrants in Minneapolis, Hong endured the aggressive anti-Asian racism of the 1930s, served in the army during Korean War, and - somewhere in the mix - was bitten by the performance bug that would eventually lead to a seventy-year long career in showbiz (and counting).

From his iconic role as Chi-Fu in Disney’s "Mulan" to the hilariously terrifying Lo Pan in "Big Trouble in Little China" and "Kung Fu Panda"’s beloved Mr. Ping, James has been capturing viewers hearts for years. And who could forget his powerful, viral speech as he accepted the Best Ensemble Cast honors on behalf of Everything Everywhere All at Once at the Actor Awards?

Drawing on never-before-seen archival materials and hours of interviews, this is a powerful first-person journey through James’s incredible life and unique family history: a quintessential Asian American post-immigrant story, filled with new anecdotes and wisdom drawn from an unprecedented career, threaded through with an incisive look at nearly a century of Hollywood history.

When I first saw this book, the only role of his that stood out for me of James Hong's is his role as the host in Seinfeld. But I like reading memoirs and at age 97, I figured he would have an interesting story to tell ... and he did.

In this memoir, Hong looks back at the people, experiences, challenges and turning points that shaped his journey. He shares stories from his childhood and early life, his decision to pursue acting and the years he spent building a career in Hollywood at a time when opportunities for Asian American actors were often limited. This is a book about Hong the person as well as Hong the actor, the experiences he had, the relationships he formed and the lives and characters he encountered during more than 70 years in Hollywood.

Hong was born in Minneapolis, MN, in 1929 to Chinese emigrant parents. The family relocated to Hong Kong when he was young and then moved back to the States when he was ten. He talks about how hard it was being the only Asian kid in school and experienced bullying and racism.

Hong writes about the many different jobs and roles he took on throughout his career and the people he met along the way. His memories include working on television shows and movies, meeting major Hollywood stars (the good and bad experiences), attending auditions, dealing with rejection and finding ways to keep working in an industry that could be difficult. He also discusses his experiences as an Asian American performer. Many of his early roles were shaped by the stereotypes and limited opportunities available to Asian actors and he describes what it was like to work within those limitations while continuing to pursue his career. As Hollywood changed, so did the kinds of opportunities available to him. His stories also touch on family, friendships, colleagues, perseverance and the importance of staying active and engaged throughout a long life. 

I liked the writing style and found it more intersting than I thought I would. It was interesting but not surprising to read how Asian (and other minorities) were treated back in the day in Hollywood. He would audition for an Asian role only to find it had been given to an obvious non-Asian and he would be awarded a stereotypical lesser Asian role. Thankfully things have changed and a lot of that is thanks to Hong. What would have made this book better would be including photographs.

Book ~ "160 Things Women Can Finally Stop doing at 60" (2026) Mina Karr

From Goodreads ~ After forty years of saying yes, apologizing first, keeping everyone else comfortable and quietly carrying the invisible load ... maybe it's time to stop.

"160 Things Women Can Finally Stop Doing at 60" is a witty collection of observations every woman over sixty will recognize. From saying sorry when someone bumps into you, to keeping gifts you never liked on display, to explaining why you're tired, to reminding your husband to call his own mother, each short entry offers one small permission to let something go.

Warm, sharp and laugh-out-loud relatable, this isn't a book about becoming a different person. It's about dropping the habits, expectations and obligations that no longer deserve your time.

To be honest, I wasn't expecting much from this book. But since I'm over 60, I thought I'd check it out. 

There are 160 bite-sized things we can stop doing and the chapters cover a wide range of topics:

• Forty years of being nice is plenty
• You can't negotiate with your knees
• You are allowed to sit down
• He's standing right in front of it
• You've been the one calling for thirty years
• You are are standing right there
• You already raised them
• Nobody is coming to inspect the grout
• You have worn enough uncomfortable clothes
• The coupons expired in 2019
• The yes you regretted immediately
• You are not the one keeping track
• Eat it while it is hot
• You walked in and forgot why
• Everything needs a password now
• Nothing falls apart

I enjoyed this book more than I thought I would. I will say, though, I'm not a fan of the cover. It's a fun quick read yet a reminder of the things we do to accommodate people but often we get nothing in return or no one even notices. So why are we doing them?

Most I could relate to (not so much the adult children advice since I don't have any). I will try put to use many of the things. I especially liked and will use the advice on stop softening every "no" (instead of rambling on, just say, "I can't but thank you for thinking of me").

Some things I'm already doing like ...

• Stop watching the shows he chose - Gord watches a lot of sports and scifi ... I read or watch something else on my laptop or find something more fun to do
• Stop being the one who always texts first - you will find out what a friendship does and goes when you're not carrying it
• Stop feeling guilty about the friendship you let drift - I didn't feel guilty but I made peace that we were good for each other at the time and they are now just someone I used to know
• Stop doing full make-up for the grocery store - since I retired 4 years ago, I've worn make-up maybe 3 times

Book ~ "When Lemons Give You Life" (2026) Anna Johnston

From Goodreads ~ Retired Michelin-star chef Griff Barlow has lost his appetite. He’s done with grief, guilt and the beige slop they dare call food at Sunny Glen Aged Care Facility, where he now resides.

Six decades of life have given him all the lemons he can handle so he breaks into the nursing home kitchen to bake himself one last tart. It’s supposed to be his final meal but the act of cooking stirs a dormant joy. Soon he’s regularly sneaking in after dark, serving up flavor and comfort to fellow residents, who, in turn, begin to come alive with each bite of Griff's delicious concoctions. Yet behind the apron is a lie so big it could destroy the one thing Griff has left to protect.

Lisa, the only family and visitor Griff has, is clueless to what's happening behind the closed kitchen doors. Their sibling relationship fractured long ago, plus she has her own navigating an ADHD diagnosis in middle age, the spark of a new romance, and unexpected news that might change life as she knows it. Any hope of reconciliation between the two is long gone, buried in the silence between them.

But the truth has a way of boiling over, and when secrets, soufflés and second chances collide, Griff and Lisa may discover a recipe for forgiveness.

Griff isn’t happy with life at Sunny Glen Aged Care. He’s pretending to have dementia and has reached the point where he’s considering ending his life. But when he sneaks into the nursing home kitchen one night to make himself a lemon tart, something changes. Cooking reminds him of how much he used to enjoy food and sharing it with other people. He starts secretly cooking meals for the residents, bringing some excitement into their otherwise routine days. As he gets more involved with the people around him, Griff begins to reconnect with life while continuing to hide his secret. 

Meanwhile, Lisa, his sister, is dealing with changes of her own. She’s recently been diagnosed with ADHD in middle age, has started a new relationship and is facing some unexpected developments in her life. She continues to visit Griff, who she thinks has dementia, despite the complicated and strained relationship between them. 

This is the second book I've read by this author. I really enjoyed her first one, The Borrowed Life of Frederick Fife ... this one was just okay. I found it was a bit too long and draggy at times and could have been tighter.  It's written in third person perspective, alternating in Griff and Lisa's voice and bounces back and forth between present day and the past (the chapters are labeled).

There was so much (too much!) going on ... being shamed at a young age for being gay, gay marriage, early onset dementia, death of a spouse, adult diagnosis of ADHD, suicide, a life threatening illness, domestic violence, keeping family secrets, a seven food man with anxiety, nursing homes being run poorly and ripping off their residents and more!

Book ~ "The Shampoo Effect" (2026) Jenny Jackson

From Goodreads ~ When Caroline Lash arrives in Greenhead, Massachusetts, she falls head-over-heels for Van Whittaker, a fleece-wearing, litter-collecting, kayak enthusiast with long, floppy hair and the personality of a Border collie. Born and raised in this picturesque coastal village, Van runs with the same crowd he did as a kid: His ex-girlfriend, Bailey, a beautiful girl who attracts men like moths to a flame; Augusta, old money, horsey, and snobbish; and Fran, surrounded by brothers and sons, too fed up with boys to ever consider marrying one. 

Together the group runs wild through the marshes, beaches and bars of Greenhead, drinking on houseboats, spending long afternoons sunbathing with their children and playing games the way they always have. But when Bailey discovers that she is pregnant with Van’s baby, the delicate balance of the group’s friendship is thrown off. Soon Caroline is cast out of the circle and what she does next - in a potent mix of fury and heartbreak - exposes long-held secrets and works the entire town of Greenhead into a lather. 

Caroline is a 28-year-old writer who leaves her job in New York and moves to a small coastal Massachusetts town for an 18-month writing fellowship. She is the daughter of a successful novelist and is trying to establish herself as a writer independently of her mother. Caroline meets Van, a local environmental scientist. The two begin a relationship and Caroline becomes involved with Van's close-knit circle of lifelong friends, which includes Bailey, Van's former girlfriend; Augusta, who is married to Colin; Fran, who is married to RJ; and Eben, Colin's brother and one of Van's closest friends.

Caroline's relationship with Van changes when Bailey reveals that she is pregnant with Van's child. The pregnancy is the result of Van and Bailey reconnecting shortly before Caroline began dating him. Van and Bailey attempt to establish a co-parenting arrangement, which leaves Caroline feeling isolated. As she becomes more shut out from the group, she writes a story based closely on these people and events surrounding her, changing names and details but leaving enough for the people involved to recognize themselves. When the story is published, it attracts a lot of attention but its success exposes secrets. 

I thought this story was okay, not great. It could have been tighter as it seemed to drag. It's written third person perspective in Caroline, Bailey, Augusta and Fran's voices (the chapters are labeled). I didn't really care about any of the characters. As a head's up, there is swearing, drug use and adult activity.

Book ~ "Love You More" (2026) Emily Giffin

From Goodreads ~ Billie has built the perfect life. Her practice as a doctor in New York City is thriving and she’s finally found the right partner in Dean after years spent trying to move on from her high-school sweetheart, Mick. Their young love had been intense and true but distance and ambition pulled them apart when she left Wisconsin for medical school.

Then one morning, just after accepting Dean’s romantic marriage proposal, Billie’s phone rings. It’s Mick - calling for the first time in nearly a decade. His news is urgent, and in a moment, everything changes.

As Billie boards a plane back to Wisconsin, the past comes rushing in - her friendships from home, the love she shared with Mick and the choices that shaped them. What awaits her is a reckoning with what she’s lost, what she’s built, and what she still wants.

Billie is in her late 30s and is a successful doctor in New York City who is newly engaged to Dean, a trauma surgeon. She believes she has moved on from Mick, her high-school sweetheart in Wisconsin, who had broken up with her when she moved away for medical school. Shortly after accepting Dean’s proposal, Billie receives an unexpected call from Mick, who tells her that her longtime best friend, Erin, has died in a car accident. Erin leaves behind her eleven-year-old daughter, Phoebe, and Billie returns to her Wisconsin hometown to help with the situation and support Phoebe. 

Though she's visited back home over the years, Billie reconnects with old friends and with Mick in their grief, bringing back memories of their relationship and the life she once had. Taking responsibility for Phoebe has some life changing decisions to make that will affect her life with Dean.

This book was a quick read and it was okay, not great. It is written in first person perspective in Billie's voice. As a head's up, there is swearing.

I found the story unrealistic. Billie is in her late 30s, has a successful career, a life and friends she loves in New York City and is in an adult relationship with Dean. Yet the second she is back home, her feelings for Mick, who she hasn't seen in about 15 years when he broke up with her, are still there? I found that hard to believe. It didn't seem like she has the maturity of someone who has achieved so much and is almost 40. She was prepared to throw it all away to take guardianship of Phoebe, regardless of how Dean felt about it and how this would disrupt their lives. It was odd that Mick and Billie are surprised to find out from Erin's mom, who has Alzheimer's, that they are expected to have custody of Phoebe. I would think that in the 30 years Billie and Erin had been friends that the topic would have come up. No one seemed overly sad Erin had unexpectedly died. Instead chores were checked off. The day after the funeral her friends packed up her condo. A couple days later Erin's mom was moved into a home.

Book ~ "Playing the Changes: A Musician's Memoir" (2026) Colin James

From Goodreads ~ From the prairies of Saskatchewan to sharing the stage with arguably the most influential guitarists of all time, Colin James is one of Canada’s greatest musical talents. His career spans over 30 years, with a track record that includes 20 studio albums, eight Juno Awards, 30 Maple Blues Awards and multi-platinum record sales.

In "Playing the Changes", Colin James invites readers to look back at the formative years that would see him emerge as a full-formed musical talent at such a young age. We see the young Colin James Munn growing up in Saskatchewan, the son of social worker parents, always surrounded by music  from the records played at home, to the folk clubs in Regina and the Quaker gatherings his family attends throughout the province. At a very young age, he picks up his older brother's guitar and teaches himself to play along to some of the vintage blues records he adores so much. He ultimately masters the mandolin and penny whistle as well; before long he’s sitting in with folk bands before he’s even a teenager.

Next readers are introduced to young adult Colin, an endearing young man who is trying to navigate and understand the world around him. There is Colin the hypochondriac, who is convinced that any malady he has may be fatal; Colin the romantic; Colin the compulsive cleaner, whose efforts to keep a tidy house by vaccuming floors and polishing furniture is an attempt to prevent the impending separation and divorce of his parents.

Readers go on the road with teenage Colin as he plays with veteran musicians much older than him, in venues throughout Saskatchewan and Winnipeg where he’s under the legal age to enter, let alone perform. The years of road work lead to the pivotal moment of Colin's at the age of eighteen, with a day's notice, he’s asked to put together a band and open for legendary guitarist Stevie Ray Vaughan in Saskatoon. That performance leads to a remarkable friendship between Colin and Vaughan, who goes on to become an incredible mentor and momentously christens Colin James (it sounds more rock'n'roll than Colin Munn).

Finally, Colin brings the reader to 1988, just before the release of his debut album, Colin James. By turns entertaining and open-hearted, Playing the Changes is a celebration of music and the joy of playing it, and of one of the most remarkable childhoods in Canadian music history.

I like reading bios/autobios and memoirs and am a fan of Canadian musician Colin James (though I haven't listened to his later albums but will now!) so was interested to read his story.

This is James’ story of growing up in Saskatchewan and discovering his passion for music at a young age. He talks about his family, his struggles with anxiety and insecurity, quitting school and how he taught himself to play the guitar and began playing with older, more experienced musicians. A major turning point comes when, at just 18, Colin gets the chance to open for blues legend Stevie Ray Vaughan. The two become friends, and Vaughan becomes an important influence on the young musician. The memoir follows James through his early years on the road and ends just before the release of his first album in 1988 (which I had on cassette).

I liked this memoir and the writing style. It would have been nice to have some pictures included throughout. It was interesting to read about the people, experiences and musical influences that helped shape him into the Canadian blues and rock musician he became. It's amazing all he'd done at such an early age to achieve his goals. As a head's up, there is some swearing and talk of drug use.

Book ~ "The Solo Honeymoon: A Brief Beautiful True Love Story" (2026) Laura Murphy and Bret Witter

From Goodreads ~ Laura and Devon were on the cusp of their wedding. Both young professionals, they lived a full life in Corner Brook, Newfoundland, where they were often found hiking the rugged and beautiful coastline with their two Bernedoodles.

When they sat down to plan their honeymoon, Chianti, Italy, was at the top of the list. Four months later, Laura found herself standing at the edge of an Italian village, watching the sunset. It would have been perfect, if Devon had been there with her. But Laura's fiancé, the love of her life, had died in her arms a month before their wedding.

The Solo Honeymoon follows Laura as she faces her fears and heartbreak by going alone on the honeymoon she had planned with Devon. From screaming from the mountaintops in Ireland to wandering the busy streets of London, to dining on the French Riviera and watching the Tuscan sunset, Laura travels across Europe to find solid ground. Along the way readers learn her unique love story with Devon and what made their relationship so special.

The result is a beautiful exploration of what it means to choose life in the face of unimaginable pain. The Solo Honeymoon shines a light on the joy of love, the depths of grief and all the beauty there is in the world.

This is a memoir about love, loss and the journey that follows an unexpected tragedy. The book tells the story of the author's relationship with her fiancé, Devon, from the day they met through their engagement and plans for their future together. Just weeks before their wedding, Devon dies suddenly, leaving Laura to face a future she never imagined. 

Rather than canceling the honeymoon they had planned, Laura decides to take the trip on her own. As she travels through England, Ireland, France and Italy, she reflects on the life she and Devon shared while experiencing the places they had hoped to visit together. Along the way, she reconnects with friends and family, meets new people and documents her travels on TikTok, where her story resonates with others. 

I like reading memoirs and bios/autobios and I thought this one was okay. Not surprising it's not a happy read. It moves between memories of their relationship and her solo travels, showing how she navigates grief while learning to carry forward the life and love they shared. I hadn't heard of her story before (I found this book on a top 10 list) but apparently it's been covered extensively in the media and on her TikTok account as she was traveling, which she talks about in the book.

Book ~ "Who's That Girl: The Untold, Definitive History of New Girl" (2026) Thea Glassman

From Goodreads ~ Since its finale, "New Girl" has quietly become one of the most rewatched shows in streaming history - a certified comfort classic. Taking the well-worn hangout sitcom formula and giving it a weird, wonderful twist, the series landed in that rare space between "Friends"-style warmth and sheer comedic chaos. Sitcom conventions were bent (if not broken), as the cast and writers shaped characters in real time - from Nick Miller’s legendary “turtle face” and Winston’s codependent relationship with his cat, to Schmidt’s endless barrage of absurd, quotable one-liners.

More than just a sitcom, "New Girl" became a generational touchstone, embedding itself in pop culture and personal routines alike. Fans still yell “No notes!” at friends, argue over the rules of True American and nod to the Douchebag Jar as a model of self-regulation. It’s the show that made “adorkable” a household word, gave Prince and Taylor Swif, two of TV’s greatest cameos, and delivered some of the most beloved moments in modern comedy -like the slow-burn brilliance of Nick and Jess’s kiss, the utter chaos of Prank Sinatra or Schmidt’s passionate monologue about “chut-a-ney.”

In "Who’s That Girl", entertainment journalist Thea Glassman takes readers behind the scenes with in-depth interviews with creator Liz Meriwether and the creative team, telling the story of how a scrappy, offbeat pilot evolved into a streaming juggernaut. Packed with heart, hilarity and never-before-heard stories, this is the definitive tribute to the ultimate feel-good show.

New Girl aired from 2011 to 2018. I hadn't watched it then ... I hadn't even heard of it. I found it on the Disney+ channel this spring and started watching it and like it. It's a fun 22 minute show (no commercials) ... sometimes I'll watch just one, sometimes a bunch. When I came across this book, I thought it would be interesting to get the scoop about the show.

This book describes the creation, production and cultural legacy of the show. It examines the show's origins, development, casting process, writing, filming and evolution over its seven-season run. Through interviews with cast members, writers, producers, directors and crew, the author tells how the series came together, the decisions behind its characters and storylines and the work involved in bringing the show to television. The book also explores the series' reception, its influence on popular culture and its continued popularity after its original broadcast (COVID helped since we were all stuck inside). 

I liked the writing style. It provided a behind-the-scenes account and was written in a chronological order from its initial concept through its conclusion, highlighting key moments in the show's production and history. I've just recently started season 5 so now know what's going to happen in the remaining chapters but I'm okay with that. As a head's up, there is swearing.

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 ~ "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 ~ "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 ~ "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 ~ "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.