The Queen's Fortune by Allison Pataki

 

 The Queen's Fortune: A Novel of Desiree, Napoleon, and the Dynasty That Outlasted the Empire. Ballantine Books, 2020. Adult historical fiction.

With the new movie about Napoleon out in late 2023, readers may enjoy brushing up on French history. This historical fiction is really the story of his early love, Desiree Clary. When the younger man goes to seek his fortune in Paris, she waits patiently for him. But, Fate has other things in mind for them both and it all makes a terrific story.  Descriptions of the places and people are stunning. Well researched and including a short list of fiction and  nonfiction titles for further reading, this novel allows readers to transport themselves to a time that turned the world on its head.

Mercy Watson is Missing! by Kate DiCamillo

 

Mercy Watson is Missing! by Kate DiCamillo. Illustrated by Chris Van Dusen. Candlewick, 2023. Children's chapter book.

If you are not familiar with the adventures on Deckawoo Drive, run to the nearest library and check them all out! Mercy, the porcine wonder, seems to be gone. Mr. and Mrs. Watson call in their friends and neighbors to help find her. Private investigator Percivval Smidgely and his girlfriend, Louella Smith (SMITH? :) ) become involved as do Leroy Ninker and his horse Maybelline and others. Put some toast in your toaster and join the fun! Yippie-i-oh! Maybe look into some Butter Barrel stock, too!