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Sunday, May 9, 2010

A Celebration of Herbs

Television bores me. 
So, I read. 
Or listen to audio books while I craft. 
I have dozens of nature related books at my disposal,
but I do like to be entertained with a good story,
and I have discovered
the most delightful author, Susan Wittig Albert
Her vast knowledge of herbs is threaded
throughout intriguing mysteries
 based on a single character, China Bayles, and her surroundings.

In a nutshell, China Bayles was a high-powered attorney in the city
who realized it wasn't the life for her. 
She quit her job,
cashed in her retirement,
and purchased an herb store in the small fictional town of Pecan Springs, TX.


Thyme of Death (China Bayles 1)The chosen titles for her books reflect the herb she has spun her tale around.  One example of the many titles offered is:  Lavender LiesI especially enjoyed reading the books in order, beginning with the first one, Thyme of Death.  My library didn't have access to them all, so I had to skip a few here and there.  I've copied many a recipe for yummy treats, bath and beauty recipes, and other 'green' and natural concoctions.


Susan goes beyond writing fun to read books full of interesting facts. 
She has a newsletter, All About Thyme that exceeds all expectations,
has published the China Bayles Book of Days, which I've just acquired from the library, and hosts an on-line book club.  She co-authors another series of mysteries with her husband, and has developed yet another series that I have yet to venture to read based on the Beatrix Potter books, called Cottage TalesIf you visit her website, you will discover many more interesting  things about Susan.
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16 comments:

Rose said...

I need to make a note of this....I need new authors. Reading has always been a big part of my life, but here the past year or so I have a hard time finding stuff that holds my interest. And I will have stuff that I a few years ago I could not put down.

I like tv, specially Masterpiece Theater on pbs and a few shows...but I always have an audio book or two going and always have a book that I am reading.

Rambling Woods said...

I am ready for some new books..Thank you as I am going to look for these at the library....Happy Mother's Day to all....Michelle

dianasfaria.com said...

Wow! thanks for all the interesting links. This does sound like a great idea for a book too.
& thank you for the beautiful poem you left on my blog about the Forget Me Nots. That was so sweet.
: )

Steve Willson said...

Karen - Thanks for visiting my Blue Jay Barrens blog. I'm glad you've been enjoying it. The property totals just under 107 acres. I've only been blogging about it for a year, so there are a lot of topics, like the Streamside salamander, that haven't been covered in all of their life stages.

swamp4me said...

Oh goody, a new author to check out! Thanks.

Johnny Nutcase said...

ohh! intriguing! might have to keep an eye out, thanks for the heads up!

This Is My Blog - fishing guy said...

Karen: Interesting play on words for the titles.

EG CameraGirl said...

I'll have to see if my little library carries Susan Wittig Albert's books. They sound interesting.

walk2write said...

I had heard about the author and her work a few years ago but somehow forgot the name and never looked into it. Thanks for reminding me. I will look her up in the library. Every book should have an extra bonus like a recipe or craft pattern. It's a great marketing technique.

Just Ramblin' said...

Karen, Thanks for suggesting a new author. Haven't heard of her before. Reminds of the "quilting" books. I'm always looking for something new to read. Will also check out the website. Cottage Tales appeals to me as I love the Beatrix Potter books. Nola

Audrey said...

I might have to look into these books! Can't resist a series :)

Sarah said...

Karen,

Thanks for letting me know about my blog glitch. Hopefully all fixed

Unknown said...

Sounds very entertaining. :) I haven't read her before, maybe I shouldgive her a go.

Kay Baughman said...

Karen, as usual we are on the same page! Literally in this case. My sister has recommended these mysteries to me and I love them!
-Kay

Kay Baughman said...

And I also meant to say that I am thrilled to find out about Cottage Tales. When we visited England a couple of years ago (my dream vacation) Beatrix Potter's home was a favorite spot. In her garden was a man weeding. I think it was Farmer MacGregor!

penny said...

Reading puts me to sleep, but my sister loves to read so I will pass this info on to her.