The Truth-Teller's Tale by Sharon Shinn

A feel-good book suitable for teens and adults. I wanted a nice, easy read. What with the pandemic and quarantine, I didn’t want a huge mystery or messy problems. This book was perfect. The writing is simply beautiful, I highlighted multiple passages. When my daughter is old enough, I hope she will read this with me.

Two innkeepers daughters, Eleda and Adele, are mirror twins. They each are very special: Eleda is a truth-teller and Adele is a secret keeper. Townspeople occasionally mix them up to sometimes humorous or disastrous results. The girls were a joy to read about and you watch them grow into young women, learning valuable lessons along the way. They have a best friend, Roelynn, who is the daughter of a wealthy merchant. Roelynn falls in love quickly and often, resisting any attempts her father makes to marry her to the Prince. When a dancing master and his apprentice stay at the inn, romance buds and lies and truths are revealed.

Side note: This is a stand alone novel, but I plan to read book one next. Yes, I went out of order.

Talking to Strangers by Malcolm Gladwell

Talking to Strangers: What We Should Know about the People We Don't Know

Time for an audiobook! Why an audiobook you ask? You hear the voices of the people interviewed, re-enactments of trials, and historical soundbites. I think it adds to the narrative.

Some essential questions are asked and answered: How do we make sense of strangers? What goes through your mind when you meet someone? Why do we believe the lies people tell? Why are there so many misunderstandings and why aren’t we learning from our mistakes? Any of these issues spark your interest? In trying to answer these questions, Gladwell pulls from history and research. It is fascinating and will make you question your own perceptions. And while you may not agree with Gladwell's conclusions, I believe it’s a thought provoking read and can spark valuable conversations between friends and family.

The Book Charmer by Karen Hawkins

This is a heartwarming book, think vanilla ice cream with whipped cream and cherries on top. Then, add extra sprinkles. A sweet story with a touch of magic, it reminded me a bit of Sarah Addison Allen’s work (another author I highly recommend).

Sarah is no ordinary librarian. Books speak to her and she can place each book with the perfect reader. When Dove Pond, her lovable town, is in trouble, she will do anything to save it. Only she needs some help and the books know just who to ask.

Grace moves into town, a true city girl, she wants nothing to do with this small community. She hopes to be gone in a year. But she finds herself falling in love with the people around her and she may be the savior the town desperately needs.