Welcome to book review six of fifty-three. As you know, I provide freelance book reviews to several review companies. It has been a great experience, introducing me to new authors and their wonderful books. Each week this year, I’m opening my Weekend Coffee shares with a link to a review I’ve provided. Reviews are three stars or higher. The genres range from picture books to fiction and nonfiction titles.

Martha May Mckenzie and the Magic Cake Big Mistake
Author Brian Starr
Published in August 2023
The publisher is Archway Publishing
Available in paperback (200 pages)
Children’s Fantasy | Children’s Adventure

If we were having coffee, I would share that I had no time for puzzling this week. It has been a steady week, and I suspect that my body is battling a cold. Although being tired and having a runny nose are my only clues to what might be brewing. I’m hoping to take Sunday to sit with my feet up, a hot beverage beside me, and a good book in my hand. Blankets and a cuddling dog or two might be involved in that plan.

If we were having coffee, I would share my biggest news of the week. I signed my freelance contract with FriesenPress this week as a book coach. It’s been in the works for a while. Since it’s a new program that they rolled out in the fall of 2025, I had to wait for my onboarding wave. I’m excited about the program and my position.

If we were having coffee, I would share that I have discovered a new tea. I’m not a peppermint person, but I enjoy a hot peppermint tea. I also like that it’s caffeine-free. So, I can drink it any time of day.

Well, virtual coffee friend, here is the coffee bean grinder. How was your week? Please leave the link to your coffee share in the comments section so I can visit when I get a chance.

By Shari Marshall (2026)