What’s Ashley Reading?: Santa Cruise

Santa Cruise by Mary Higgins Clark & Carol Higgins Clark

First line: Randolph Weed, self-styled commodore, stood on the deck of his pride and joy, the Royal Mermaid, an old ship he had bought and paid a fortune to refurbish and on which he intended to spend the rest of his life playing host to both friends and paying guests.

Summary: The maiden voyage of the Royal Mermaid is turning out to be more eventful than the Commodore had hoped for. The Santa Cruise was set to launch with people of all sorts who had done good in their communities and donated to worthy causes. Among these are Alvirah, a lottery winner turned amateur sleuth, Regan Reilly, a private investigator, and two stowaways who are paying a fortune to escape from the law. As weird occurrences continue to happen Alvirah and Regan start putting the pieces together to find out who is sabotaging this holiday cruise.

My Thoughts: As part of my holiday TBR I picked up another Mary Higgins Clark book. This one brings together characters from her books, Alvirah Meehan and Regan Reilly from her daughter, Carol Higgins Clark’s, book series. I have not read either series yet but I met the characters in another holiday mystery last Christmas, Deck the Halls. Even without knowing the backstories I felt that it was easy to enjoy and follow the story.

This book had a cozier vibe to it than others I have read and it had a very complicated and sometimes ridiculous plot but I did have fun reading it, which is all that matters. There was a lot of coincidences that would never happen anywhere else than in fiction but this made it rather funny. There are two criminals hiding on the ship dressed as Santa Claus, a cabin mix-up leading to further complications and several sightings of a “ghost” which are the perfect recipe for a complicated but cozy mystery.

If you want something quick before Christmas than give this or Deck the Halls a chance. Each are short and sweet and will help get you in the holiday mood.

The Blog Wants to Know: Dec. 2025

In this holiday season, you might be working through your shopping list of gifts for loved ones, but it’s okay to share what you might like this season so we asked our library staff what they’re hoping for!

What’s something you’re hoping for in the holidays, whether a gift from others or a gift you might get for yourself? What’s something you’ve had your eye on for a while? Maybe your wish list might inspire some ideas for others! 

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: This holiday, I got myself a little gift.  I moved into a bigger apartment this summer so I was lacking a few items to fill the space.  I really wanted a dining table with chairs for my kitchen.  I finally found one that was reasonably priced and the perfect fit.  Last weekend I went to pick it up and got it set up in my space.  I LOVE it!  I cannot wait to have people over for a little dinner party.  Luckily Christmas is just around the corner!

Kathy, Public Support Services: There is not anything I need anymore, so the thing I want most is to spend time with my family!

Dawn S., Youth Services Coordinator: What I want the most is for life to slow down a bit this holiday season so I can enjoy it. I feel like I’m always running from place to place and exhausting myself. I want to spend the holidays with my family and enjoy my surroundings. 

Tabbitha, Youth Services: Honestly, the best gift I could ask for isn’t something that can be wrapped. I just want time with my family! Just to be present, share some laughs, and intentionally create those beautiful, core memories that we all can share for years to come and that will stick with my daughters for a life time.

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services: I had the opportunity to take surf lessons with my goddaughter this summer, and I realized pretty quickly how much strength and training it requires. Since Kansas is the most landlocked state ever, I know that I need something to help for the next time I get to hop on a board in the ocean. I found this awesome balance board called the RevBalance Swell, and I really hope to snag that so I can practice my balance for the waves!

Shane, Public Support Services: I always appreciate a gift that makes my life easier in some way. This year I asked for a Happy Planner for next year, a new computer keyboard, and a water distiller. However, I have been eyeing a sale for a Big Blanket Co. Hideout Hoodie. I just can’t justify the full cost to spend on myself!

Now it’s your turn! What are some of your holiday wishes this year? Share them in the comments below, and Happy Holidays!


What’s Ashley Reading?: Vagabond

Vagabond by Tim Curry

First line: “Honey, you’re the third Tim Curry to call today,” she said, and hung up the phone.

Summary: Tim Curry has had a career that has spanned decades with some of the most memorable characters on stage and screen. In his memoir he explores his childhood as the son of a military chaplain, the start of his love for performing, the iconic roles throughout his career and overcoming the challenges following his stroke.

My Thoughts: I absolutely love Tim Curry. I always look forward to watching Rocky Horror Picture Show at Halloween (at times going to the midnight shows at the Orpheum). He stars alongside the Muppets in Muppet Treasure Island which is one of my favorite movies. Then I see him every Christmas as the creepy hotel worker in Home Alone 2. He can do so much and has been a part of my viewing life since I was a kid. When I saw that he was releasing an autobiography this year, which also coincides with the 50th anniversary of Rocky Horror and 40th anniversary of Clue, I immediately added it to my TBR.

Rather than reading it I decided to listen to the audiobook, especially since he reads it himself. It was a fascinating stroll through the ups and downs of his life and career. He makes a point at the start that he will not discuss personal relationships but focus on his work. For an actor who has spent so long in the public eye he has stayed very private about his personal life and he kept it that way here too. But as a reader I never even noticed the exclusion. He had so many stories about his work that he didn’t even need it.

After finishing the book I was just blown away by how much he has done, seen and lived. Listening to him reminisce was fascinating and to hear the behind the scenes stories made me love him and his work even more. If you love Rocky Horror or Clue or any of his other movies then this should be a must read. It will give you a new appreciation for the man who made these characters what they are.

The Lineup: Tabbitha

The lineup of what the DPL staff have been up to lately.

Tabbitha’s Lineup

Hobby: Don’t Wreath Me Hangin’! 

There’s nothing I love more than the holiday season, and jumping into the decorating process is always my favorite part! Creating beautiful, custom wreaths for my family and friends has become my absolute favorite Christmas tradition. It’s such a relaxing and fun DIY activity—I love putting on a cozy movie or show and getting lost in the process of shaping the perfect design. Last year, I had extra fun creating this festive piece specifically for my amazing, gnome-loving best friend! Seeing the finished, personalized product ready for gifting is truly the best part of the holidays. 

Travel:

This year, our family is excited to be heading back home to Illinois for the holidays, eager to visit with family and friends. There’s something truly special about Chicago; it’s one of those places that wraps you in a warm embrace and instantly feels like home, no matter how much time has passed since your last visit. Coupled with the crisp winter weather and the city’s signature, over-the-top holiday decorations, being there makes you feel like you’ve stepped right into the middle of a classic Christmas movie. The whole city sparkles with an almost cinematic, unforgettable festive magic.

Entertainment:

Every holiday season, we make sure to cuddle up and watch all of our favorite Christmas classics, but the real fun lies in discovering a fantastic new addition to the lineup. Last year, we struck gold with a movie called Dashing through the Snow, which delivers a truly fun and unexpected twist on the typical holiday fare.

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Traditions:

One of our absolute favorite ways to bring in the holiday season is by visiting Illuminations at Botanica every year. This tradition provides the perfect opportunity to get out of the house, enjoy the crisp winter air, and immerse ourselves in the breathtaking display of holiday lights. Each year, Botanica manages to outdo themselves; there’s always something brand new—a stunning new installation or a clever lighting design—that captivates us and reminds us of the magic of the season. It truly is a spectacular way to create lasting holiday memories.

Show/Music:

 If you are looking for high-quality children’s programming, look no further! The beloved classic picture book, The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats, has been beautifully adapted into an Amazon Prime Original that is an amazing watch with your children. It captures the simple, warm wonder of the book, making it a wonderful way to celebrate the magic of winter. The show also features a stunning, unexpected score “Snowy Day,” performed by the renowned group Boyz II Men. Their signature, flawless harmony, making it a treat for parents and kids alike.

Bookworm Buffet: A Feast for your Reading Senses

Bookworm Buffet: November 2025

Welcome to Maycie’s Bookworm Buffet! Get ready to feast on three literary delights, each served up in a different format: physical, digital ebook, and audiobook.

November’s Spread –

Physical: Alchemy of Secrets by Stephanie Garber

Genre: Fantasy, Magical Realism

Summary:
Folklore 517: Local Legends and Urban Myths, taught by a woman called the Professor. Most students believe the Professor’s stories are just fiction, but Holland St. James has always been convinced that magic is real. When she tracks down a local legend named the Watch Man, who can supposedly tell you when you’ll die, the world finally makes sense. Except that the Watch Man tells her she will die at midnight tomorrow unless she finds an ancient object called the Alchemical Heart. With the clock ticking, Holland is pulled deeper into this magical world in the heart of Los Angeles— and if she can’t figure out whom to trust, not even the Alchemical Heart will save her.
Publication: October 07, 2025

My Rating:

eBook: We’re a Bad Idea, Right? by K.L. Walther

Genre: Young Adult, Contemporary, Romance

Summary:
Audrey Barbour has had enough of following the rules. So when her best friend Henry proposes an outrageous fake-dating scheme to win back his ex-girlfriend, it feels like the first step to shaking up her perfect life. And the second? That comes when Audrey’s parents go out of town, sparking a high-risk, high-reward solution to pay for her fellowship—renting out her family’s Connecticut mansion online. With the help of her new fake-boyfriend, it shouldn’t be hard to pull off… right?  
Expected Publication: March 03, 2026

My Rating:

Audio: All Systems Red by Martha Wells

Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Novella
Narrated by: Kevin R. Free

Summary:
On a distant planet, a team of scientists is conducting surface tests, shadowed by their Company-supplied ‘droid–a self-aware SecUnit that has hacked its own governor module and refers to itself (though never out loud) as “Murderbot.” Scornful of humans, Murderbot wants is to be left alone long enough to figure out who it is, but when a neighboring mission goes dark, it’s up to the scientists and Murderbot to get to the truth.
Publication: May 02, 20217

My Rating:

What’s Ashley Reading?: The Winter People

The Winter People by Jennifer McMahon

First line: The first time I saw a sleeper, I was nine years old.

Summary: The town of West Hall, Vermont, has had a history of strange disappearances and deaths. One the first and most confounding is Sara Harrison Shea in 1908. She was found in her backyard shortly after the death of her daughter.

Now in the present day, Ruthie along with her mother and sister live in Sara’s house. Nothing strange has ever happened until one day Ruthie’s mother, Alice disappears without a trace. While Ruthie is searching for clues about where her mother has gone she discovers a copy of Sara’s diary. As she looks into the mystery surrounding Sara she starts to see some parallels with others who have searched for lost love ones. Could they all be connected somehow? What is happening on this farm in small town Vermont?

My Thoughts: I picked this up at a used bookstore with the plan to use it as a vacation read. I know it doesn’t look like something you’d take on a trip to sunny Florida but it was also October. I have read several of McMahon’s books and always really enjoyed them. She does a perfect mix of mystery with a paranormal twist.

I enjoyed the jumping between the historical events of Sara and the present day with Ruthie. Multiple timelines and flashbacks are one of my favorite writing formats. The Sara storyline was really creepy and gave me chills. It was a perfect pick for spooky season but under all the scary bits it brings forth a really difficult question. What would we be willing to do for a little more time with a loved one who has died? It seems so tempting but as we see in this novel it may not be all we expected it to be. This book will make you think deeper thoughts and scare you at the same time. If you want a book for those cold dark nights then this is it!

FYI: Trigger warning : Death of a child, murder, scary scenes.

The Blog Wants to Know: Nov. 2025

We’re heading into the season that celebrates family, gratitude, and most importantly, food! 

What’s something that you’d like to cook or bake but have never tried? Perhaps this is a family recipe, something you’ve seen in a cookbook, or even something you’ve seen on a baking or cooking show.  What are some dream recipes that you’d like to try if you had the time/tools/ingredients, etc.? 

Hannah, Assistant Director: I’ve always wanted to try making croissants from scratch. I’ve seen videos of bakers making them and always marvel at how jiggly they are when they are fully proofed. But the skill and time it would take to laminate the dough intimidates me!

Ashley, Interlibrary Loan and Cataloguing: I would love to make a really good Cornish pasty.  I have done steak and stout pies, Yorkshire puddings and shepherd’s pie but I have yet to try my hand at the pasty.  My dad made some several years ago that were excellent.  I had several pasties on my last trip to London and they are just the perfect on-the-go meal plus being very filling.

Alyssa, Adult and Teen Services Coordinator: My boyfriend loves New York-style cheesecake so I really want to try making that for him some time, but I’m super intimidated by all of the steps and the delicacy of it. I’m also a big fan of Indian food so I’d love to try making my own vegetable curry!

Baya, Youth Services: I’ve always thought that one day I’ll try making macarons. They’re delicious gluten-free cookies made with almond flour. The fillings can come in so many different flavors between two airy cookies. My favorite so far has been peach. Macarons have to be made just right, but it’s really satisfying to watch the process.

Now it’s your turn! What’s something that you’ve always wanted to try making? Let us know in the blog comments below!

What’s Ashley Reading?: Good Spirits

Good Spirits by B. K. Borison

First line: On the first day of December, the universe gave to me –

Summary: Harriet York is being haunted. She has no idea why because she tries to be a good person. However, when the Ghost of Christmas Past arrives she begins to wonder what may have happened in her past to warrant this visit.

Nolan Callahan has spent nearly a century as the Ghost of Christmas Past. He has hoped that one day he will be able to move on but that day has not arrived. Each passing year becomes lonelier and then this year he is met with his most challenging assignment ever.

As Harriet and Nolan try to discover what is in Harriet’s past that brought them together, they find that their connection may go beyond what either of them ever imagined.

My Thoughts: I was very excited to get an early copy of this book! It has a pretty cover and such a cute summary. I had only started reading B.K. Borison this year with her book, First-Time Caller, and now I am hooked. The writing is fun and the romance a bit spicy.

From the beginning I loved the banter between the characters. Each one of them is sure that they know what is going on but soon discover that there is more at play here. Harriet is a people pleaser so she allows Nolan to try and fix the issue even though she is sure this is all a mistake. Nolan just wants to finish the job and move her along to the next ghost.

As the story progressed we learn more about each character. I loved to see the romance blossom but with it came parts where I felt so bad for each of them. They had parts of their lives that they had trouble acknowledging. It shows a lot when an author can make the reader feel for the fictional characters and I felt Borison did a fantastic job with this. By the end it all comes together with the warm holiday goodness you want.

If you are wanting a spicy holiday romance then I would highly recommend this! It hits all the Christmas-y vibes with candy canes, holiday pajamas and A Christmas Carol retelling.

The Lineup: Hannah

Book: Dungeon Crawler Carl

2025 is the year of the reading rut for me. I just can’t seem to read book after book like I have in previous years. Maybe I’ve become set in my ways and will only read favorite authors? Despite the reading rut, what I have read this year has been very enjoyable, including this recommendation from fellow staff member, Justin. Dungeon Crawler Carl is a hilarious science fiction, dystopian romp with an unlikely hero and his talking cat, Princess Donut. Upside…it’s a series. Downside…it’s popular, so I’m still stuck on the hold list for book two.

Music: Taylor Swift

It took me a while to admit it out loud, but I am a Swiftie. I’ve listened to her music since her country days and early pop transition, but she lost my interest with Reputation. I got back into her music during the pandemic when she released sister albums Folklore and Evermore in 2020. Her latest album Life of a Showgirl is a return to her pop roots, and I honestly cannot stop listening to it…especially Opalite.

Activity: Training Kyle Boofs

I am 100% a crazy dog lady. We have two aging chihuahua mixes, Willie and Merry, and recently added a new boy to our pack. King Kyle Boofs is my new best friend. He’s a 2.5 year old mini bernedoodle and is 46 pounds of love. He has a sweet, cool-cucumber personality. Last month, I embarked on the first steps toward training and certifying Kyle as a therapy dog.

Series: The Morning Show

If you log into my Apple TV, you will probably see Ted Lasso pop up first. I am known to watch random episodes of Ted Lasso when I need a pick-me-up. However, right behind that will be The Morning Show. Situational dramas about news stations will always be one of my favorite genres. My husband and I binged the entire The Newsroom series last winter. The Morning Show has the same energy as The Newsroom, but with two powerhouse actresses in Jennifer Aniston and Reese Witherspoon. Season four is out right now. I binged the first six episodes during the rainy weekend in October, and then I was sad to discover I had to wait for the next four episodes since they are released one a week like traditional TV. We are so spoiled by streaming with the ability to binge full seasons at once.

Hobby: Genealogy

Researching local and family history is easily my favorite hobby of all time. I’ve spent hours upon hours constructing my family tree and crediting sources. I feel like a detective connecting all the dots between my relatives and finding interesting stories and family dynamics on all branches of my family tree. Doing my own genealogy research has a fun benefit in that it usually tends to help with local Derby and Rose Hill history, since several members of my paternal side were founding members of both communities. Of course, I would be lying if uncovering a family secret or a skeleton in an ancestor’s closet isn’t one of my favorite activities.