Books n' Cooks ⋆ Page 2 of 144 ⋆ Recipes and Books

{Book Review} The Violin Conspiracy

The Violin Conspiracy has a little something for everyone – mystery, family drama, passion, music. Who stole a priceless violin? And can the violinist still perform at the same level without it?

The Violin Conspiracy by Brendan Slocumb

Not long before competing in the prestigious Tchaikovsky Competition in Russia, Ray McMillian’s rare and expensive Stradivarius violin is stolen. The thief left a random note but there’s no way Ray can find the money and get his violin back before the competition. The only answer is to find the violin himself.

But who might have it? His family who is attempting to sue him for the instrument, given to him by his grandmother? The descendants of the man who enslaved Ray’s great great grandfather, who are also suing Ray for the return of the violin? A competitor?

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{Book Review} The Wife Between Us

Full of twists and turns, The Wife Between Us is a psychological suspense novel that will get you hooked. Just be warned – assume nothing!

Nelli. Vanessa. Emma.

A jealous ex-wife. A stalker. The perfect husband.

But there is more than what meets the eye.

There are so many twists and turns in this novel that it’s impossible to give a good summary without spoilers. The book jacket, which is also published as the Goodreads summary, doesn’t give you any more than I have above. The greatest take away is this: don’t make assumptions. You might think you know what story is unfolding, but it’s unlikely you’ll be correct.

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{Book Review} Bridge of Scarlet Leaves

Bridge of Scarlet Leaves is a story of love, family, racism, and patriotism here in the United States during World War II.

Bridge of Scarlet Leaves by Kristina McMorris

When Maddie Kern, an aspiring violinist, falls in love with her brother’s best friend, Lane Morimoto, she assumes that her biggest challenge would be her overprotective brother and Lane’s very traditional Japanese family. But Maddie is so wrong .

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Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze

Caprese Skewers with Balsamic Glaze are a healthier and fresh, no-bake summer appetizer. Fresh mozzarella, basil and tomatoes are topped with a balsamic glaze – such a classic combo but totally irresistible.

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{Book Review} Sunflowers Beneath the Snow

Sunflowers Beneath the Snow tells the story of three Ukrainian women and their very different life experiences, through Soviet occupation to an independent Ukraine.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the author for my enjoyment. All opinions are mine alone.

Sunflowers Beneath the Snow by Teri M. Brown

It is 1973 and the Soviet Union occupies Ukraine. The new Communist regime is increasingly oppressive, spurring one man – Lyaksandro – to do his part to counter the Soviets. He’s not overtly confrontational but secretly passes on little bite of information. However, Lyaksandro is almost caught and is forced to flee Ukraine. His wife, Ivanna, is told that he died along with his lover.

Sunflowers Beneath the Snow is the story of Ivanna, her daughter Yevtsye (Yevt), and her granddaughter Ionna, from Soviet occupation through the early years of Ukraine’s freedom. Continue reading “{Book Review} Sunflowers Beneath the Snow”