Friday, April 14, 2023

The March Books

Given that March isn't our most beautiful month, one would think there would be more reading done! But "Eleanor," a bio of Eleanor Roosevelt was very big! But it was fascinating, although I was definitely ready to move on. So, here are three worthy mysteries and a biography to kick off the spring season.

 "Harbour Street" by Ann Cleeves


Fans of the series "Vera" who haven't yet explored Ann Cleeves' series of books upon which the television series is based are in for a treat. The "Vera" books so capture the characters as Cleeves writes them that as you sink into the TV stories, the characters of the novels are plainly visible!

"Harbour Street" is the sixth book in the series. The plot finds Vera and her team easing the schedule for the Christmas holidays. But then her DI, Joe Ashcroft, and his daughter discover a dead body on the metro train on which they were traveling after his daughter's concert. Suddenly, any sense of relaxation is off, as the team must catch the killer.

The victim, Margaret Krukowski, is an elderly woman, and one who appears to be deeply respected in the small community of Mardle. She lives in a small flat on the top floor of a bed and breakfast run by landlady Kate, who lives in the house with her two teenaged children. Margaret was a help at the B&B and known to not only the community but the transient residents who stopped for business to stay at Kate's.

But Margaret had secrets and some in the town know those secrets. Could it be that one of them killed her? The investigation finds the team digging deeply into the town residents -- as well as the past -- to finally solve the murder.

Cleeves can write and her characters are well drawn. It's a thick one but it moves quickly and you want to read just "one more chapter" before closing it for the night. I'll definitely be reading more Ann Cleeves.

"Murder Underground" by Mavis Doriel Hay


Written in 1934, "Murder  Underground," one of the British Library Crime Classics, is an entertaining romp through the murder of a despicable victim (of course) and several likely (and because of this, unlikely) suspects. Set in London's Hampstead region, the body of the spinster Miss Pongleton is found on the underground steps of the Belsize Park tube station, strangled with her dog's leash.

Miss Pongleton lives in a house of rooms managed by a Miss Bliss and the residents include two young working women (Betty and Cissy), Mr. Slocombe (an investor), Mrs. Daymer (an author), and several others, along with Nellie (the maid) and Bill (the gardener). All of them are possible suspects, though the ones acting the most guilty are Miss Pongleton's niece and nephew (Beryl and Basil) and Beryl's fiancee.

It's all quite a handful and a bit of a comedy of errors as Basil embroils himself in a web of lies and must somehow unravel himself before he is charged with the crime.

I wouldn't call it my favorite of the BCL series, but it is entertaining.

"Eleanor" by David Michaelis


I've always had great respect for Eleanor Roosevelt and her role in American politics in the 20th century. But boy, this book -- as well written and interesting as it is -- was a bit of a slog.

It's not that Michaelis is a dull writer. He's not. He digs into Eleanor's deeply sad and trouble childhood, her emotionally cold upbringing, her neuroses (including shyness) that stuck with her much of her life, her feelings of inadequacy and never feeling as though she measured up, her ungainly looks which were mocked by no less than her own mother, and much more. He looks into her unique relationship and marriage with her second cousin and husband, Franklin D. Roosevelt. They lived quite independently and yet were extremely dependent on one another -- he, for her help and insight into politics and her ability to get things done; she, because with Franklin, she really had little choice.

In the 1930s and 40s, Eleanor was often more loved and admired than her husband for her ability to reach the common person, versus the elite. She was tireless, visiting hospitals, writing a daily syndicated newspaper column, visiting the troops in the Pacific during World War II, emphasizing women's rights to work and for equal pay, urging her husband to be more aggressive in civil rights issues and pushing aggressively for what would become the League of Nations, among others. If there was a power behind the throne, it was Eleanor and her story is a fascinating one.

It's just that it was so darned long! The editor in me kept thinking "What would I cut out of this to tighten it up" and I had no answer. Indeed, I would actually add a bit more about her own reactions to Franklin's affairs and how she managed (apart from affairs of her own). 

I learned a lot about the political situation, not only during the FDR years (which included two World Wars and a Depression) but also about the Cold War, when Eleanor's widowhood allowed her a new freedom to advocate for peace and civil rights. 

The thing that hit me most with this book is that if the Roosevelts were in politics in today's America, they probably wouldn't survive a primary. The media did not comment on FDR's paralysis or question his health, or write about either of the couple's affairs -- his with (among others) her private secretary and hers with Lorena Hickock, an AP reporter who gave up her career for Eleanor (among others, though some might debate the word "affair." Let's call them "great loves.")

Would I recommend it? Yes. If you enjoy history, politics, women's issues or are fascinated by the Roosevelts, it is worth the 600 oversized pages. But I was glad when I finished. Time for something lighter.

"The Sunlit Weapon" by Jacqueline Winspear


This most recent entry in the "Maisie Dobbs" series finds Maisie in 1942. As security preparations are underway for First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt's visit to England, Maisie finds herself involved in a case that may be connected. British pilots have been shot down over the coast of England -- presumably by other Brits and Americans. Maisie is tasked with finding out what happened to one of these pilots and along the way, a missing American soldier.

The American army, though not officially segregated in WWII, was far more so than one would like to admit, with servicemen of different races strongly discouraged from fraternizing. This plays into the plot as well, when a black American soldier is found bound and gagged in a barn and his white friend from home, also serving in the army, is missing. Now the black soldier is being held in a military prison. Might he hold a clue to any of the threads Maisie is weaving together?

As always, Winspear's work is historically well documented (if you are a fan, go to her website and check out her various newsletters) and she writes so well, the story flies. Of course, integrated into the case she is working on are her own family dilemmas, including that of her adopted daughter, Anna, who is facing bullying in her village school.

A note: I recommend reading this series in order as it follows chronologically and the characters develop over time in terms of relationships. That said, the mystery itself is self-contained. 

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61 comments:

DeniseinVA said...

Lovely to see the iris’ coming up. These are very interesting sounding books. Thanks for the reviews Jeanie.

Boud said...

I love winspear, and definitely agree she's a good writer. I've read her books in any order I could find them, because they're standalones. But if you really like the history of the main characters to advanced and can get them in order, good idea.
Ann Cleeves is terrific and one of the few writers whose novels translates well to TV, particularly the Shetland ones.
Really good choices, thank you.

Rita said...

Absolutely love the series Vera!!! One of my favorite shows.
These all sound interesting--even the 600 page slog. ;)

David M. Gascoigne, said...

Thank goodness Michigan is not one of the states censoring books and restricting what gets into the library and the schools. Every state should have a governor like yours.

Linda P said...

I'm thankful for library loans as that way I can get a diverse selection and save money. I usually choose favourite authors, crime/mystery series and sometimes non-fiction. Thank you for the recommendations and the well written reviews Jeanie.

Lisbeth said...

It is always nice, and relaxing to read a few mysteries. I have myself engaged in this lately. The life of Eleanor R sounds fascinating, and I really would like to read a biography about her. Maybe I will go for another author, after having read your review. She seems to have been a great character, doing a lot for women issues and ordinary people.
March seems to have been a good reading month.

Jean | DelightfulRepast.com said...

Jeanie, I have only seen a handful of the Vera episodes but really like them. Had no idea the series was based on a book series. Must look into this! I've long intended to start the Maisie Dobbs series of books but have not yet done so. Right now I have four rather long books in my to-be-read pile, so it might be a while yet. But eventually. Love your book reviews.

kathyinozarks said...

Years ago I read the book Loving Elenore I had no clue before I read that book how complex a person she was. It was an excellent read-I learned allot and wanted more when the book was finished.
Happy Weekend

coffeeontheporchwithme said...

You can't get much better than Cleeves! It's funny, I know I've read the whole series, and when you described the plot, I couldn't even recall it! Maybe it's time to revisit. -Jenn

Divers and Sundry said...

I love the Vera tv series. I should definitely read some of the books.

DUTA said...

I love biographies. I would like to read Eleanor Roosewelts' biography, but the size of the book puts me off. I'm for 'the less is more' in any writing approach.

Bill said...

A wonderful book list. My wife has read some of these but I haven't. Happy weekend!

gigi-hawaii said...

I read Eleanor's autobiography back in 1999 and found it interesting. It was quite long and dense. I also watched part of the streaming series, "First Ladies" last year. FDR and Eleanor were featured and, yes, her affair with a woman was shown in great detail, though subtle and not sordid.

Beatrice P. Boyd said...

I haven't read any of the books on your list, Jeanie, but I recently finished two of the most recent Vera Stanhope books by Ann Cleeves, The Darkest Evening and The Rising Tide. I was excited to find both in the local library as there are more Shetland series books.

Barwitzki said...

Thanks for the reviews...nice selection. Enjoy reading in April, then the weather is rainy here... nice to be inside.
The iris is a beautiful flower... this blue, I love it.
Many greetings to you. I wish you a happy weekend. Viola

Pam Richardson said...

Jeanie, your book reviews are always well written and interesting! I love a biography but the 600 pages sound daunting. Hope you are having a great weekend!

Sandra Cox said...

Eleanor intrigues me. I may have to read it. I have so much admiration for that woman. Her life certainly wasn't easy.
Thanks for sharing;)

William Kendall said...

I read the companion book for the Ken Burns documentary on the three Roosevelts and found it compelling.

Bleubeard and Elizabeth said...

I'm a big fan of mystery and an even bigger fan of British mystery. The violence is far different than in U.S. mysteries. Each of these three sound remarkable. But I was really impressed with your take on Eleanor Roosevelt. I had read about Franklin's supposed affairs, but never of Eleanor's. I was mesmerized by the story you told and how it unfolded. Just a brilliant review, Jeanie!

NanaDiana said...

I love your book recommendations. I just could not get into the Roosevelt book. I picked it up at the library and 'shopped' the book a bit here and there and thought-I won't ever finish reading this. However, I really do admire her and what she contributed. I hope you have a really great weekend! xo Diana

Mae Travels said...

Your book list is very interesting. I keep meaning to read another Vera mystery! You convinced me that maybe if I do want to read about Eleanor Roosevelt I should find another author.

best, mae at maefood.blogspot.com

eileeninmd said...

Hello Jeanie,

I love all of Ann Cleaves books and the Winspear's Maisie Dobbs series.
Thanks for the reviews and sharing your books. Take care, enjoy your day and have a great new week.

acorn hollow said...

I saw that Vera episode on Britbox. I am a slower reader. I am reading Mrs. LINCOLN'S SUSTERS. SO FAR SO GOOD
CATHY

roughterrain crane said...

Thank you for your good recommendation of the books.

My name is Erika. said...

I think that's a great March reading especially since a big book can always slow anyone way down. I have that Eleanor Roosevelt book in my audible account-to read someday- and I should listen to it. But I have a couple of longer books to listen to first. And Nice mysteries. that's what I am missing right now, even though my current book is a mystery-of sorts. I haven't read any Vera, although I have a couple to read. I'm glad they're very much like the TV series. I think you had a good reading month though Jeanie. Even if March is a tough weather month, you read some good books to fill the time. Happy middle of April. Hugs-Erika

anno said...

Agreeing with everyone here -- this is a great roster of books to have read in a single month! And congratulations on finishing Eleanor! I suspect you are both glad to have read it, and glad to have room in your life for some new reading as well.

Your description of the book made me wonder, though, if the one large volume could have benefited from being split into several smaller ones (that might have allowed for adding more of the personal/anecdotal details you were hoping to find). Sort of like William Manchester's enormous biography -- unfortunately never finished -- of Churchill.

And I was glad to come across your mention of Ann Cleeve's mystery series. Just added this to my TBR list and hope to get to it during a lazy summer weekend (they must happen sometime, right?).


Anyway, I reading about the books that my friends are reading -- thanks so much for these reviews! Happy weekend!

Carola Bartz said...

I wonder whether it's even possible to write a shorter biography about Eleanor. I have read volume 1 (500 pages) of Blanche Wiesen Cook's biography and there are two more volumes, equally voluminous. She was such a complex personality. I've read a few Ann Cleeves mystery, mainly of the Shetland series.

gluten Free A_Z Blog said...

Love the flowers starting to peek through! I am a fan of biographies and despite the length, I would probably enjoy this one about Eleanor Roosevelt. Thanks for the great review.

Tammie Lee said...

Such pretty irises.
I look forward to flowers, still none here.
Wow, you are such a good reader!

Karen @ Beatrice Euphemie said...

I'm a big fan of Eleanor and fascinated with her strength, resilience and influence. I also love a good biography, so this one will go on my book list. Thanks for sharing - always good to get a review before reading. x K

Deb said...

Oh Murder Underground has definitely caught my eye!

Salty Pumpkin Studio said...

Books to add to the summer reading list!

Carol @Comfort Spring Station said...

another interesting collection of books - I particularly am attracted to the classic mystery.

Lisa's Yarns said...

That Eleanor biography sounded like a slog... if it's taking me a long time to get through a book, that is not a good sign usually - unless there are other factors. This is why I often steer away from long non-fiction. I have to be REALLY interested in the life of the person. Otherwise I just kind of lose interest!

I would like to try a Maisie Dobbs novel sometime - I have heard great things. I will be sure to start at the beginning when I get those books a try!

Susan Kane said...

We love the VERA series, and didn't realize there was a book that started her off. Eleanor made a difference in the common man's lives. She was an amazing woman.

Breathtaking said...

Hello Jeanie :=)
I enjoyed your reviews, and the series Vera, but haven't read the books. I also collect biography's but haven't read Eleanor Roosevelt's biography, although I have quite a few books on presidents wives.I know she was an amazing woman, but from what your review tells me, it was tediously long, but it could be the author's or editors fault. This book is not for me because I like to feel sorry when I finish a good story, even read slower towards the end, because I don't want it to end,:=) not relieved or glad to have finished. Many thanks for such a good review.
All the best.

Gretchen Joanna said...

My brain is too tired to even think about your books, though the covers are enticing in themselves.

But the irises -- they look just like my petite little ones that are so cheering in early spring, God bless them. It makes me happy that we share those flowers. <3

Gretchen Joanna said...

My brain is too tired right now to even think about your books, though the covers are enticing.

However, the irises grab me -- because I think they are identical to the dear, petite ones I have in my garden, which are so heartening in early spring. It makes me happy to know that we share these flowers. <3

R's Rue said...

Hi my friend.

Marilyn Miller said...

I would be fascinated to learn more about Eleanor, but this book sounds indeed too long. I would never finish it. Thanks for your book reviews, I always enjoy them.

Joyful said...

Hi Jeanie, thanks for giving such wonderful summaries and book reviews. It gives us a good idea whether to follow up and read the books ourselves. I'm afraid I'm not very good at leaving reviews for many of the books I read. I know you like murder mysteries. I don't read them often myself but recently finished a good one, The Brutal Telling by Louise Penny. This one was especially interesting to me because there was a connection to British Columbia where I live.

Rajani Rehana said...

Beautiful blog

Pam said...

thats a lot of reading for the month. Good for you.

Sandra Cox said...

Aren't those Dutch Iris pretty. Mine look kinda puny this year, but they are in the shade. Have a great one.

Pamela said...

As always, great recommendations. I have always been interested in Eleanor Roosevelt, but 600 pages is a long book. I do love mysteries, especially those in a series.

Velva- Evening with a Sandwich said...

A great list of book recommendations. Much appreciated.

Velva

ashok said...

Interesting books...thanks for sharing

Esme said...

WOW, I love reading this post from the first word to the very last. I was unaware of so much of the information you mentioned, so it's an eye-opener for me.
Visited you via Share Your Style #385
If not already part of SSPS, this is a personal invite to hop over and come and share your posts with us at Senior Salon Pit Stop. See my entries: 4+5 and navigate to the bottom of my page for the Senior Salon Pit Stop linkup, we hope to virtually meet you there.

Joanne Huffman said...

Always good to see your monthly book recommendations.

Nancy said...

Pretty irises to go along with all of your reading! Thanks for the fantastic reviews. Happy weekend to you!

Amy at Ms. Toody Goo Shoes said...

I'm always interested in your book reviews, Jeanie. Murder Underground sounds like one to add to my list. I think I'll skip Eleanor, though!

Victoria Zigler said...

Sounds like some interesting reads.

Linda @ Life and Linda said...

Jeanie, I love that you make time to read. The book reviews are always helpful. Happy day.

Carol @ The Red Painted Cottage said...

Jeanie, Thanks for another list of books. I’ve read several books that are close to 1000 pages long, but they were all wonderful novels. I’ve also read biographies, but they all held my interest. So at this point, I’ll be passing on this particular author’s version of Eleanor. As soon as I finish my travels, I’ll be sharing some fabulous books I’ve been reading. I always have a book to read!

This N That said...

Sad to say that I’m not much of a reader anymore. No time…. if I find a book that I really like I know put it down and then I get nothing else done. I spend too much time on the computer. have a good evening.

Steve Reed said...

The BCL book sounds intriguing, especially since it's set practically in my neighborhood! (Belsize Park is on the Northern line, though, and that's not our tube station or our line.)

I'm intrigued by the Eleanor Roosevelt biography. I always admired her so much. You're right -- the Roosevelts probably couldn't win an election today, and yet he was undoubtedly one of our best presidents. Do we expect too much from our current leaders? Or maybe we expect the wrong sorts of things -- telegenic charisma, for example.

Lowcarb team member said...

The Vera television series has been very popular.
Many thanks for sharing these books.

All the best Jan

Liz Hinds said...

I love the Maisie Dobbs books but read them out of order - not a good idea!

I've also enjoyed those of the British Library Crime Classics I've read.

Jenny Woolf said...

I've always thought what amazing people both the Roosevelts were. I am sure they benefited from not having their personal lives hung out to dry. Yes, like you, I find it hard to deal with books that are too long. It is simply that many biographies tell me more than I ever wanted to know. I am thinking that perhaps the author wanted to write a "standard biography" so has historians in mind, who would, of course, wish to hear every tiny little thing!!

Julie's Creative Lifestyle said...

You read a lot of books in March. I enjoyed reading your book reviews. Happy reading!

Anca said...

Murder Underground seems to be the perfect book for commuting in London. :))

Eleanor sounds really interesting, as I'm not too familiar with US history, so I might check this one out.

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