Short Canadiana Mentions

As some of my readers may recall, I also review books for work, in Library Journal. I can't review those ones fully here because of that, but I wanted to mention some of the Canadian titles I've read for them in the last while. You can read bits of the original reviews at LJ, just follow the links :) 

Definitely Thriving by Kerry Clare 

This is a modern "women's novel", inspired by the work of Barbara Pym. Anyone who can mix Bridget Jones with Barbara Pym has a unique viewpoint! Set in Toronto, this is an entertaining book with some thoughtful themes. Clementine Lathbury gets divorced, moves back to TO and a crummy apartment of her own, gets a part-time job in a book store and tries to figure out her "Eat Pray Love" journey, without the "love" part. Things get complicated!

The Mystic & The Missing Girl / Vikki VanSickle

This one isn't released until September 8, and my review isn't up yet for LJ. But I just read this one and wanted to let you know about it -- it was such a fun read! Drew Benson goes home to her small town to take over her late Aunt's metaphysical shop. And she gets involved with a cold case going back 20 years, while discovering her own psychic abilities. This one was unique and entertaining and will be particularly interesting to readers who are into psychics, tarot etc. 

Leave our Bones Where They Lay / Aviaq Johnston

Memorable read for sure! This collection of linked short stories follows Jupi, an old man who must tell a story to a demanding spirit, Kupik, each solstice. He's getting old so brings in his young granddaughter to train her in the family tradition. Fabulous look at the contemporary North. I thought it was fresh, unusual and a fascinating read.