Mary J Hicks

Twin sisters Bertie and Wanda have set up a "read 'n' return" section in the book area of their thrift store. But despite the fact that customers can check out the books for free, books have been mysteriously disappearing from the store in Books, Beads and Baubles by author Mary J Hicks.

Gee. I must say, the two older ladies in this short story, fondly addressing each other as "sister," remind me of the sweet and genteel Baldwin sisters on The Waltons, though Bertie and Wanda may have slightly more kick. Just a smidgen. And good coffee, but no "recipe" (for those of you who are indeed familiar with Mamie and Emily Baldwin.)

The little mystery in Bertie and Wanda's store is a coffee-break's worth of a tale where neighborliness, suspicion, and compassion each have a place. I enjoyed the few minutes it took to read this quick and pleasant story.… (meer)

Lauren and her dog, Winslow, move to Valley City to fulfill Lauren's dream of living in the country. Lauren finds the house she wants to buy but when she hikes onto the property, a man surprises her and tells her to leave. Later, Lauren finds out that this man is the owner of the town's art gallery--a gallery that has been courting Lauren's good friend, Clair Watson, to place some of her artwork there. Winslow is a scene stealer. Many misunderstandings occur because characters don't want to tell other characters their true feelings when it might hurt the other person, but in the end, they do talk to each other honestly and find common ground.… (meer)