The Nature of a Lady (The Secrets of the Isles #1) by Roseanna M. White

My thoughts: This lovely story takes place on the Isles of Scilly off the coast of Cornwall. I frankly loved the folks in the story that reside on the islands. Their sweetness, their caring, their crankiness, their feuds, and their love and friendship. I can imagine the breezes blowing off the water across the small land masses and the lovely skies and water scenes.

Life on the isles meets an "invasion" of Lords and Ladies from England as they vacation on the islands, meet up with acquaintances, and generally bring an atmosphere of interference into the lives of the good folks on the island.

Three varied books for the picture book set - A rock falls from the sky, some Midsummer Night's Dreaming, and a bird Free [Review & Giveaway USA/CANADA]

The Rock from the Sky by Jon Klassen (Candlewick Press Hardcover ISBN: 9781536215625, Ages 4-8)

My thoughts:  Children and parents alike will enjoy this lengthy (90+ pages) of the author's droll, somewhat dark humor as they contemplate the conversation between turtle, armadillo, and snake. Friends who converse on which spot is best to sit and ponder life. Barely escaping disaster from the rock that falls from the sky, they seem to be completely unaware of circumstances and focused on which spot they are to sit.

This is a "chapter" book that will delight early readers. Again, a sense of unaware foreboding exists and droll subtle happenings. And, yes, the "eyes" have it! 

Dusk's Darkest Shores by Carolyn Miller [Giveaway Ends June 15]

About the book: How can a meek wallflower help a returning war hero whose dreams are plunged into darkness?

Mary Bloomfield has no illusions. Her chances for matrimony have long since passed her by. Still, her circumstances are pleasant enough, especially now that she has found purpose in assisting her father with his medical practice in England's beautiful Lake District. Even without love, it's a peaceful life. 

Spring and Summer hand creams from Good Earth Beauty Exclusives protect, soften, beautify [Review & Giveaway]

We are still battling the Covid-19 Pandemic World wide and part of the battle is the constant and thorough hand washing we're doing to help stem the tidal wave of infections. And it has been helpful. Other efforts to end the pandemic are in place and working. Now, a major rescue effort is called for our hands that have been washed and washed and washed.

I am rather partial to the all natural hand cream from Good Earth Beauty Exclusives. And  they are pure, natural, and vegan. They are soothing, comforting, and enriching when used on my hands. I also like to slather some on my arms, neck and shoulders, and lower legs. 

Belvedere Luxury Soy Candle Set provides soothing ambient aromatherapy to homes [Review & Giveaway]

Enjoy the luxury and ambiance of a softly glowing and lightly fragrant soy candle

The other day it was a particularly gloomy day as far as the weather was concerned and I was experiencing it personally in a droopy, gloomy way because I just didn't feel particularly exuberant. And then the mail arrived and a lovely package of two soy candles.

Well, of course I opened the package the right then and there and lit the Sandlewood and Bergamont candle. I set it on a table nearby and got on with my day. 

Never Miss by Melissa Koslin from Revell Publishing

My thoughts:  As a "first novel" this author has certainly hit it outta the park! A fast paced, suspenseful story complete with superb character development. 

A plot that is convoluted and involved on several layers. I totally enjoyed reading the probability of a highly contagious virus being weaponized and released and the race to prevent it's happening.

The involvement of each of the main characters with the background plots, with each other, and their moment-by-moment fast paced race to prevent tragedy is intriguing.

I totally enjoy Melissa Koslin's debut novel.

About the book: He's a researcher on the hunt for the truth about a manmade virus. She's a former sniper who intervenes when an attempt is made on his life. As they race to find the mastermind behind an imminent biological attack, they may find that life is more than mere survival.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given.

Twenty-One Steps by Jeff Gottesfeld & illustrated by Matt Tavares [Review & Giveaway]

In honor of America's fallen soldiers and as Memorial Day 2021 approaches, we present....

My thoughts: A treasured presentation for children showing the beauty and somber care and minding of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier honoring America's fallen soldiers.

I knew this was a remarkable monument to America's fallen soldiers; but I did not realize the intense symbolism involved in the moment by moment, day by day care and guarding of America's unknown.

The story is beautifully written in somber tone but not too dark for children's gentle hearts and minds. It bespeaks respect and honor for one and all of those who have died in the wars fought by Americans since WWI.

The requirements and dedication of those selected to serve as guards is remarkable. 

I think this is a book every library - public, private, school, homeschool - should have on its shelves. 

About the book: With every step, the Tomb Guards pay homage to America’s fallen. Discover their story, and that of the unknown soldiers they honor, through resonant words and illustrations.

Keeping vigil at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, in Arlington National Cemetery, are the sentinel guards, whose every step, every turn, honors and remembers America’s fallen. They protect fellow soldiers who have paid the ultimate sacrifice, making sure they are never alone. To stand there—with absolute precision, in every type of weather, at every moment of the day, one in a line uninterrupted since midnight July 2, 1937—is the ultimate privilege and the most difficult post to earn in the army. Everything these men and women do is in service to the Unknowns.:  Their standard is perfection.

Exactly how the unnamed men came to be entombed at Arlington, and exactly how their fellow soldiers have come to keep vigil over them, is a sobering and powerful tale, told by Jeff Gottesfeld and luminously illustrated by Matt Tavares—a tale that honors the soldiers who honor the fallen. 

GIVEAWAY

Begins May 14

Ends June 9 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT

Open to USA & CANADA addresses

NO P.O. BOXES, Please

Canadian winners phone nuber required

a Rafflecopter giveaway

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate a review. Opinions are mine, alone and are freely given. Winner's prize is provided and shipped directly to the winner by Candlewick Press or publicist. Chat With Vera is not responsible for lost or misdirected prizes.