This is the delightful and intelligent account of the real life journey by Cathy Alter to see if in her late 30s she could change her life for the better. In a unique, witty approach, she examines the problems she faces and decides to try and conquer them by studying and following the directions found in the popular women's magazines that she and so many women subscribe to and revere.

Readers will enjoy finding out how Belle deals with the corrupt "Yankees" and also what happens to her career and love life in this New York setting, pretty predictable, but really enjoyable, story. A light and charming book, Parkhurst also gives us the bonus of lots of yummy recipes to try, making them in the book, of course, Belle's recipes.

A RELIABLE WIFE starts out innocuously as what one might think is a common theme written about before; the early 1900s mail-order bride story. You may think you know this story but you are oh so wrong!

Jill Ciment tells the story of an elderly couple in New York City living in a 5th floor walk-up. Their pet, Dorothy, is a precious dachshund who they adore. She is about 14 years old and the night before they are having an open house to show their apartment so they can sell it, she becomes ill.