I adored the original Robert Van Gulik Judge Dee mystery books. Qiu Xiaolong has taken over writing more in this series and trying to keep the originaI adored the original Robert Van Gulik Judge Dee mystery books. Qiu Xiaolong has taken over writing more in this series and trying to keep the original author's style and prose.
Judge Dee is getting on, he has more aches and pains than he cares to admit to. He would prefer to be settled rather than travelling the countryside solving mysteries and crimes. Empress Wu, however, has different ideas and sets hi the task of locating a poet who roused the rebels with a poem "A Call to Arms".
There is very little for Dee to go on and soon discovers that the poet, Luo Bingwang, is more of an enigma. There have been rumours some saying he died in the battle or that he has just disappeared into the wind.
As Dee travels, asks questions, ponders life and remembers poems from his past and of those told to him on his journey, he is gradually piecing together things he comes across. There is something more sinister that follows his path though and he is soon aware that there is something more sinister afoot.
This was such a good read and one that reminded me of the Gulik version of the stories. The author chose a story that he felt would fit with Gulik's style and mentions at the end of the book how he was surprised that Gulik never used this one. The stories are based in fact and there is a good amount of historical notes at the end and this adds more information to the era of the time the stories are set.
This is another wonderful read, the narrative is broken up with lines of poetry. This is part of a series, it can be read as a follow-on from the Gulik novels or just with this author's novels. This is more of a whodunnit style of mystery, there is not the overabundance of drama, high-tech wizardry or fast pacing. It is a book and a series I would happily recommend as it gives a glimpse into the way of life during the Tang Dynasty. ...more
While I have not read all of the books in this series, picking up another DI Barton thriller has been great. The Village Killer is an intense crime thWhile I have not read all of the books in this series, picking up another DI Barton thriller has been great. The Village Killer is an intense crime thriller that sees Barton and his team chasing and trying to put together a myriad of clues, hints, rumours and secrets.
Barton has been at a desk and is given the opportunity to return to Major Crimes, he has a chance to get back together with some of his old team and meet some newcomers to the team. It is with his wife's approval that he returns, over the years he has missed spending time with his family, but now they are growing up his wife gives him the push he needs to return. Wanting to solve another case, he is looking back at what he has achieved and wants more to look back on.
With a missing teen and a threat against a woman, he is soon back in the thick of things. There is a problem though, nothing adds up, nothing makes sense and he is wondering what is going on. Things take a turn for the worse when a body is discovered soon to be followed by another.
This is a tense and quite dramatic thriller, I really liked the way the author brought the team together and the way the case is worked, giving those new to the team a chance to prove their worth and supporting those who have had a change in family circumstances.
The case sees Barton and the team back and forth to the village of Castor. Wealth is in evidence in the area with large houses, pools and cars, but beneath the facade, all is not as it seems. Trying to work out who is telling the truth and not bending it or out and out lying is a task and a half. It certainly had me scratching my head. The author does a great job of skewing the readers' opinions and perspectives as the case unfolds. Keeping an open mind and being open to suggestions encourages the team to think outside the box but also work together to a conclusion.
This is another fabulous thriller in the series and does read well as a stand-alone, it is obviously better to read in the order of the series as you do get to understand the pasts and experiences of the team, although references are made to previous events.
If you are a fan of tense police procedural crime thrillers then this is one to have on your list. I would definitely recommend it. ...more
This is the 12th book in The James Ryker Series and this one works very well as a standalone. I have not read all of these but this one is fast-paced This is the 12th book in The James Ryker Series and this one works very well as a standalone. I have not read all of these but this one is fast-paced from start to finish.
James Ryker is a pain in the proverbial for his sort of boss Winter and this is a constant in this story. While Ryker is good at what he does, he is also very focused on trying to pin down the Syndicate, a group that he believes runs countries, politics, and business and will do anything to keep their power and money. Ryker finds out that there is more at play than just what he is being told.
Ismail Karaman is on the most wanted list but seems to be able to come and go as he pleases. Ryker wants him as he may be the ticket to getting more info on the syndicate. He is not the only one who wants him, Angel wants him and she wants him to suffer for how he ruined her life.
This is definitely one for fans of the Reacher style of book and I can see why this James Ryker has been likened to him. Ryker is a moody, Bond/ Reacher character but with some sense of right and wrong, but he is blinded by his focus on the syndicate and Karaman. Angel coming along causes problems but she is only the start of the problems.
In the world of espionage, politics, power and money there is never going to be complete trust and this becomes more and more obvious as the story weaves its way around Europe. The story is tense and dramatic and I could pretty much visualise this as I was reading the book, the author has a great way of describing things and setting the scene, painting the picture and with his characters.
There is some violence as you would expect and this is all in keeping with the story, it is on point and works so well within the context.
This is a fast book, it doesn't let up and there are some brilliant dramatic scenes. This is one for fans of crime, thriller, action and adventure books and one I would definitely recommend....more
This is another fabulous book in the Cornish Cove series, I love this series; this latest book has some new faces and some old ones.
Nancy had wanted This is another fabulous book in the Cornish Cove series, I love this series; this latest book has some new faces and some old ones.
Nancy had wanted to open a bookshop, and after receiving an inheritance from her Aunt she has her dream come to fruition. One problem though, is that she is not exactly business-minded and there is more money going out than coming in. Dennis is stopping with his Grandmother, Vi. If you have read the previous books you will certainly remember this "says exactly what she thinks" character.
Dennis meets Nancy and while there is a sort of attraction they are two very different people, Dennis is a business analyst and thinks about money and making the most he can. Nancy is a dreamer, believing in fate and what will be, will be. A clash of personality and opinion doesn't make the best first impression, but Dennis has a very good reason for wanting to help Nancy turn her bookshop around.
This is another fun read and it had me chuckling on a few occasions. But there is something more serious for our characters to overcome and that is very much to do with their pasts and also how they perceive things to be. It doesn't help that Nancy's brother has also been kicked out of his house again and it seems to prove that relationships are not something that everyone can have or make work.
There is a lot of tension simmering through the story and this has been done very well with the other subplots the whole thing comes together wonderfully. Opinions and observations are shared, and some soul-searching is required for several of the characters and the residents of Driftwood Bay are eager to help out where they can. I do like how the author has brought in new ideas for the bookshop and it fits in so well with Nancy and the way she sees life.
I really enjoyed this book and it was wonderful to be back at Driftwood Bay with the characters and the community. A fabulous story and one for fans of contemporary fiction and romance. I would definitely recommend this one. ...more
I have read quite a few books by this author and this latest one is a wonderfully stunning and also poignant read. Set in the village of St. Aiden, CoI have read quite a few books by this author and this latest one is a wonderfully stunning and also poignant read. Set in the village of St. Aiden, Cornwall the author has brought this small coastal community to life.
Cressida, or Cressy as she prefers has come to St Aiden to pet sit for her brother and his wife. The timing is good for her as her career has taken a turn for the worse. She had a very good career on the internet from baking and sharing her recipes, tips and advice. However, this all went disastrously wrong when she appeared on a baking show.
She finds solitude to be her friend and has spent more time alone cultivating her internet persona to perfection that she has no time for anything else in her life. When she arrives in St Aiden, her sister in law has already lined a support system up for her. Cressy is polite but not that fussed. She also didn't realise that her old flame, Ross, was back in the village.
Tal;k about things tumbling down around her, the author really did go to town with Cressy. She then throws her headlong into a group of friends who are, well a bit bossy, but who actually is just what Cressy needs, even though she doesn't realise it.
The author does an amazingly mouthwatering job with cakes, brownies, blondies, sponges, meringues and a whole range of other delicious treats. It obviously fits in with the storyline as well as the title! The author has also made this a book about generations and this makes for some wonderful reading. Flirting and innuendos add a light touch to the story as does the antics of Diesel.
While this is a heartwarming and at times humorous story, the author touches on some very sad topics. For me, this is a way of keeping the storyline more realistic. It would be great if we could all live in a world without loss or of being scared. But life is as life is and that includes the sad times. The balance between the sadder themes is offset with some wonderful moments of hope for the future, second chances and starting afresh.
HEartwarming and wonderful from start to finish. This is definitely one for fans of contemporary fiction and romance as well as those who like stories with recipes. There is a selection of mouthwatering recipes at the end of the book as well. This is a book I would definitely recommend.
Merged review:
I have read quite a few books by this author and this latest one is a wonderfully stunning and also poignant read. Set in the village of St. Aiden, Cornwall the author has brought this small coastal community to life.
Cressida, or Cressy as she prefers has come to St Aiden to pet sit for her brother and his wife. The timing is good for her as her career has taken a turn for the worse. She had a very good career on the internet from baking and sharing her recipes, tips and advice. However, this all went disastrously wrong when she appeared on a baking show.
She finds solitude to be her friend and has spent more time alone cultivating her internet persona to perfection that she has no time for anything else in her life. When she arrives in St Aiden, her sister in law has already lined a support system up for her. Cressy is polite but not that fussed. She also didn't realise that her old flame, Ross, was back in the village.
Tal;k about things tumbling down around her, the author really did go to town with Cressy. She then throws her headlong into a group of friends who are, well a bit bossy, but who actually is just what Cressy needs, even though she doesn't realise it.
The author does an amazingly mouthwatering job with cakes, brownies, blondies, sponges, meringues and a whole range of other delicious treats. It obviously fits in with the storyline as well as the title! The author has also made this a book about generations and this makes for some wonderful reading. Flirting and innuendos add a light touch to the story as does the antics of Diesel.
While this is a heartwarming and at times humorous story, the author touches on some very sad topics. For me, this is a way of keeping the storyline more realistic. It would be great if we could all live in a world without loss or of being scared. But life is as life is and that includes the sad times. The balance between the sadder themes is offset with some wonderful moments of hope for the future, second chances and starting afresh.
HEartwarming and wonderful from start to finish. This is definitely one for fans of contemporary fiction and romance as well as those who like stories with recipes. There is a selection of mouthwatering recipes at the end of the book as well. This is a book I would definitely recommend....more
This was such a delightful read and one, that when I started I could not put it down. It was definitely a case of "just one more chapter then I'll go This was such a delightful read and one, that when I started I could not put it down. It was definitely a case of "just one more chapter then I'll go to bed!".
There is only so much that wedding planner Sophie can deal with when it comes to demanding brides. So from wedding planner to shop owner in a few days is not something she had envisioned. The shop has already been bought, she has some items that will give her the money to buy her stock and get things ready. The downside is that this is the final wish of her grandmother.
The shop is one that sounds just amazing and I will admit not the first thing that I would think of if I have left this opportunity. Luckily the author knows what readers like and so a shop that sells tea sets and crockery was the focus. Tea is something I and my husband drink a lot of, we are the "dunk the bag in the mug" drinkers, but I do drag the old pot and cosy out in the winter so it can sit by the fire to keep warm and we can have a second stewed brew. After reading this book I know want a nice teapot to go with my china and porcelain teacups and saucers.
The teapots and the history of some of the more collectable ones were really interesting and I admit that the author really sold me on this being the best use for the shop that Sophie has taken on. Now, this isn't a straightforward story where Sophie gets the shop, sells the pots and things are great. Oh no, this is one that comes with mysteries, one of which accompanies a mysterious set from 1900 and how it came to be handed in at the shop. This is a brilliant storyline and one that kept popping in and out of the story along with the story of Sophies Gran.
If the mystery and the interesting information about the tea sets weren't enough the author has also wound in a confusing time for Sophie with two male characters. Very chalk and chees these guys are. One comes across as aloof and cold, the other has that cheeky chap aura about him. How will they impact Sophie when she already has enough on her plate researching the mystery tea set and also trying to get her shop ready for opening! Well, you will just have to grab a copy to find out.
This was an adorable story and one that I really loved everything about it. It has mystery, romance, intrigue and gorgeous descriptions throughout. One for fans of contemporary fiction, mystery and romance. It is one I would definitely recommend.
Merged review:
This was such a delightful read and one, that when I started I could not put it down. It was definitely a case of "just one more chapter then I'll go to bed!".
There is only so much that wedding planner Sophie can deal with when it comes to demanding brides. So from wedding planner to shop owner in a few days is not something she had envisioned. The shop has already been bought, she has some items that will give her the money to buy her stock and get things ready. The downside is that this is the final wish of her grandmother.
The shop is one that sounds just amazing and I will admit not the first thing that I would think of if I have left this opportunity. Luckily the author knows what readers like and so a shop that sells tea sets and crockery was the focus. Tea is something I and my husband drink a lot of, we are the "dunk the bag in the mug" drinkers, but I do drag the old pot and cosy out in the winter so it can sit by the fire to keep warm and we can have a second stewed brew. After reading this book I know want a nice teapot to go with my china and porcelain teacups and saucers.
The teapots and the history of some of the more collectable ones were really interesting and I admit that the author really sold me on this being the best use for the shop that Sophie has taken on. Now, this isn't a straightforward story where Sophie gets the shop, sells the pots and things are great. Oh no, this is one that comes with mysteries, one of which accompanies a mysterious set from 1900 and how it came to be handed in at the shop. This is a brilliant storyline and one that kept popping in and out of the story along with the story of Sophies Gran.
If the mystery and the interesting information about the tea sets weren't enough the author has also wound in a confusing time for Sophie with two male characters. Very chalk and chees these guys are. One comes across as aloof and cold, the other has that cheeky chap aura about him. How will they impact Sophie when she already has enough on her plate researching the mystery tea set and also trying to get her shop ready for opening! Well, you will just have to grab a copy to find out.
This was an adorable story and one that I really loved everything about it. It has mystery, romance, intrigue and gorgeous descriptions throughout. One for fans of contemporary fiction, mystery and romance. It is one I would definitely recommend....more
What another amazing and jaw-dropping book in the Savage Sisters series. If you have read the previous book then you will be aware that the three sistWhat another amazing and jaw-dropping book in the Savage Sisters series. If you have read the previous book then you will be aware that the three sisters are Savage by name and savage by nature. They are a force to be reckoned with, they take no prisoners and show no mercy if they are wronged.
After the death of their father, Alex, the sisters are feeling the grief, Rosie the youngest has her boyfriend, Jane her game and girlfriend and Carly, the eldest is feeling the loss. It seems that everyone has someone but her, she and Dean had started to become close but they are cousins so his father Eddie had warned him to back off.
Carly has been very wary of men since her split with Jack Alexander, he had slept with someone else to clinch a deal and it didn't go down well with Carly. Jack is a gang boss and has always wanted to get back together and has never lied to her about that.
There are rumours around Haghill in Glasgow, definitely, a place that sounds like a no-go if you are not known or welcomed there. It doesn't stop some from trying to make their own business there though and it seems that guns are being sold. No one convincingly who is exactly behind this new enterprise, but there is a lot of scheming going on.
The author has once again let the Savage sister run their lives on the pages once again, as much as they are vicious they are true and loyal to each other, family and friends. So when someone decides to threaten Carly you just know the author is not going to let it lie. She soon lets the intensity of the story and the characters show their traits, minds and ideas flow across the page. From one encounter to another, threats are ever present and the dangerous tension is palpable.
This one is just addictive from the start to the finish, what happens in between is amazing. hard-hitting, fast-paced and with violence that you would expect from gangs. From the get-go, you know there are going to be casualties and by the end, there are many twists and red herrings along the way to keep you on your toes.
Another fabulous book in the series and if you are a fan of tough, dark, gangland crime and thriller stories then this is one you want to have a look out for. It is brilliant and it is one I would definitely recommend. ...more
This was an absolute delight to read. I do enjoy this author's books so it was great to pick up her latest one. Working in a vineyard sounds like hardThis was an absolute delight to read. I do enjoy this author's books so it was great to pick up her latest one. Working in a vineyard sounds like hard work, but for Linzi, it is her dream job. She is single, works hard and enjoys being out in nature and in the fresh air. When the grandson of the current owner is brought in to take over the running of the property there are worries. Will he change things, will he interfere or will the ethos of the vineyard, restaurant and hotel be ruined by his own vision? Elliot has already been told that he needs to work with Linzi, she will be a valuable asset and she is also knowledgeable.
This is a gorgeous book to sit and read during these nice sunny spring days that we have had recently. It was so easy to imagine how Linzi found pleasure and serenity in her job. Even though things could change she has a feeling of belonging to Green Valley Vineyard and do some of the main staff there. People are on edge as he spends a lot of time going through the accounts and seeing where money is being spent, what works, what doesn't and of course how to improve the business? This is the thing though, with his background he will see this as a business and it is not just that, it is a place where people feel welcomed, at home and more importantly respected.
Elliot has a tough job on his hands. Taking over a business he wasn't expecting to means he knows very little about it. He is going to have to learn and learn fast if he is to make things viable.
There has obviously been some good research done for this book and the author brings this into the story with details about grapes, vines, growing, nurturing and also the end product of the wine itself. I found this really interesting and it was a great part of the story. Bringing someone with knowledge together with someone who hasn't is great. Both of the main characters have knowledge in their own fields, but they also need to understand the priority and responsibilities of the other. This leads to them working, chatting and discussing plans and possible future projects.
As they get to know each other they form a respectful friendship, both realise quickly that they will need to work together and with the odd gentle nudge from Linzi, Elliot starts to understand the passion of those who work there.
I adored this book a lot and there is more to this story than someone coming in to make a profit from vines. Each of the characters has their own demons and there are things that they are not really honest about with themselves, never mind sharing. As the story evolves they do start to break down some of these barriers.
I love being outside in my garden, but my goodness the author definitely works Linzi and Elliot hard. They seem to be constantly on the go, but this actually works well for their characters. For me, anything less would not make them the versions the author has in mind for them.
This is a fabulous book and if you have read any of this author's previous books then you know you are in for a treat. A gorgeous contemporary fiction story that I would definitely recommend.
Merged review:
This was an absolute delight to read. I do enjoy this author's books so it was great to pick up her latest one. Working in a vineyard sounds like hard work, but for Linzi, it is her dream job. She is single, works hard and enjoys being out in nature and in the fresh air. When the grandson of the current owner is brought in to take over the running of the property there are worries. Will he change things, will he interfere or will the ethos of the vineyard, restaurant and hotel be ruined by his own vision? Elliot has already been told that he needs to work with Linzi, she will be a valuable asset and she is also knowledgeable.
This is a gorgeous book to sit and read during these nice sunny spring days that we have had recently. It was so easy to imagine how Linzi found pleasure and serenity in her job. Even though things could change she has a feeling of belonging to Green Valley Vineyard and do some of the main staff there. People are on edge as he spends a lot of time going through the accounts and seeing where money is being spent, what works, what doesn't and of course how to improve the business? This is the thing though, with his background he will see this as a business and it is not just that, it is a place where people feel welcomed, at home and more importantly respected.
Elliot has a tough job on his hands. Taking over a business he wasn't expecting to means he knows very little about it. He is going to have to learn and learn fast if he is to make things viable.
There has obviously been some good research done for this book and the author brings this into the story with details about grapes, vines, growing, nurturing and also the end product of the wine itself. I found this really interesting and it was a great part of the story. Bringing someone with knowledge together with someone who hasn't is great. Both of the main characters have knowledge in their own fields, but they also need to understand the priority and responsibilities of the other. This leads to them working, chatting and discussing plans and possible future projects.
As they get to know each other they form a respectful friendship, both realise quickly that they will need to work together and with the odd gentle nudge from Linzi, Elliot starts to understand the passion of those who work there.
I adored this book a lot and there is more to this story than someone coming in to make a profit from vines. Each of the characters has their own demons and there are things that they are not really honest about with themselves, never mind sharing. As the story evolves they do start to break down some of these barriers.
I love being outside in my garden, but my goodness the author definitely works Linzi and Elliot hard. They seem to be constantly on the go, but this actually works well for their characters. For me, anything less would not make them the versions the author has in mind for them.
This is a fabulous book and if you have read any of this author's previous books then you know you are in for a treat. A gorgeous contemporary fiction story that I would definitely recommend....more
After reading and adoring this author's last trilogy I was eager to get into this one. It is set in a world that is set in a future, a war has split tAfter reading and adoring this author's last trilogy I was eager to get into this one. It is set in a world that is set in a future, a war has split the world and there are two sides. Hakara and her sister Rasha are caught up in this ever-changing world. Gods are roaming and people are being forced to choose sides. It is not guaranteed who will live and who will survive. The sisters are separated and one enters a new version of the world whereas the other manages to escape to remain in what is left of the old world. The dilemma for everyone in this world is that not everyone can transition to the new and will die.
Living together, the sisters make a meagre life, living in poverty and living by their wits. Hakara is the elder and keeps an eye out for Rasha, but when change comes looming overhead, the decision as to what to do is somewhat taken out of their hands. Rasha remains, and Hakara is taken into what is left of the old.
This is a story that is about change, giving with consequences and also about adapting to the way of life as it is now. Rahsa is adapting to her new life and those around her and the religion that she is now to follow.
Whereas Hakara is trying to continue with a life without her sister, she feels guilty for not being with her and is trying her hardest to find a way back to Rasha.
The author creates another fabulous world, full of action and adventure and a mass of characters. There are lots of cast but they do gradually become memorable and the author introduces them gradually. There are religions, beliefs, hierarchy, ways of life and the ins and outs of the two worlds.
Several other stories are also involved in this story, one involves searching for an old route into the Hollow world, another channels the magic of ems from the mines, the gods and also the symbiotic relationships that are also a good part of the story.
This is the first book in this trilogy and the author has included a lot of details and has set the scene for what is to follow. The author has created a fabulous world and one that I soon found myself absorbed into. I am definitely looking forward to the next in the trilogy.
This is one for those who like their fantasy reads with plenty of world-building, imaginative characters and creations. It is one I would definitely recommend.
This was an interesting sci-fi thriller read, an AI-themed story with some interesting ideas mixed into it.
Henry is an agoraphobe, his wife Lisa is prThis was an interesting sci-fi thriller read, an AI-themed story with some interesting ideas mixed into it.
Henry is an agoraphobe, his wife Lisa is pregnant and they live in a hi-tech house. Henry has been working on a secret project, it is in the form of a half-built robot he calls William. William is unique and Henry has spent many hours with him. During a rare get-together with Lisa's friends, Henry decides to introduce them all to William. When things take a dangerous turn and there are tragic consequences.
With the house being hi-tech the author uses this to turn this into a locked room, well actually more of a locked house thriller. There is a definite sense of danger and it does tiptoe into the horror genre. The synopsis does mention these things but having a house that controls your movements and where you can go makes this an interesting read.
It is quite a quick read and is just over 200 pages long and this gives it a quick pace. This works well for this story and there are some shocking moments included. It does become tense and dramatic and kept me avidly turning the pages through to the end.
There are a couple of good twists with this one and if you are a fan of cyber, sci-fi thriller then this one may well appeal to you. I found it an addictive read and I would be very happy to recommend it to other readers. ...more
This is a gorgeous story and one that I could not put down.
From a very dramatic start in Paris, Joy finds herself on the way to Ballycove in Ireland. This is a gorgeous story and one that I could not put down.
From a very dramatic start in Paris, Joy finds herself on the way to Ballycove in Ireland. She is on a mission to deliver a valuable painting to a young woman and to discover who she is. The woman, Robyn, is starting her bookshop and does not know Joy. So when they meet, a misunderstanding means that Joy ends up working with Robyn and then begins the start of something very special.
Joy is originally an American she married a French art dealer and they lived a comfy life. It was such a surprise to discover that he had kept an important secret from her for many years. He had a daughter.
The two women are wonderful and the author has created a wonderful connection, it is only Joy who understand the relationship. As much as she wanted to hate Robyn, she could not help but find a lovely young woman who needed to find some confidence.
The story weaves around the shelves and boxes of the bookshop and the community. The village sounds fabulous, with a bakery, coffee shop and hotel all within walking distance, the sea close by and the people. There are some older residents and one in particular is Albie, he is just wonderful and is quick with advice.
The whole feel of the story is one of starting over but also of finding the confidence to accept things as they are. It is all well and good to think the worst or carry guilt but it will not help anyone. This is something several of the characters have to learn.
The story has such a wonderful pace and there are some wonderful heartwarming moments. There is also some tension, drama and a mystery that will leave some people shocked. I really enjoyed the relationships between characters gradually developed and the author has a real feel for the emotional side of things in her writing. Several moments as I read, especially towards the end, I had a lump in my throat.
If you are after a wonderful story of family, friendships and new adventures then this is one for you. There is a nice amount of romance, not huge amounts or all lovely-dovey either but enough to make the story connect in ways that work for the cast. I adored this book and would love to disappear into the bookshop with the Ladies in Ballycove. It is a book I would definitely recommend. ...more
Over the past couple of years or so I have been avidly reading The Love Heart Lane series by this author. This had recently ended but I was aware of aOver the past couple of years or so I have been avidly reading The Love Heart Lane series by this author. This had recently ended but I was aware of a new series and here is the first book in that series. A Postcard from Puffin Island has all the feels of a close-knit community and it was a wonderful way to meet the islanders of this island that has more Puffins than people.
Verity was supposed to be on the ferry to Amsterdam to spend six months travelling with her friend. Before she leaves home she gets the house ready for the tenants that will be renting it from her. One of the requirements is that the old postbox is removed. It has been there for years and is sealed, when she decides to have a quick look inside she discovers a postcard. It is to her grandmother from someone on Puffin Island. In all the years that Verrity listened to the stories of Puffin Island that her grandmother told her, she never once realised that it was a real place.
Serendipity plays a role in this story in many ways and the author has made the most of the mystery of the postcard. Making a spontaneous decision, very un-Verity-like, she decides to stop at Puffin Island en route to Amsterdam. Like Loveheart Lane, Puffin Island has its draw, drama and magnetism.
This is such a fabulous story and I devoured it. I started this early evening knowing I would not be putting it down until I had finished. The story revolves and evolves around Verity arriving on the island and immediately feeling a sense of belonging, this is down to the stories from her grandmother who told Verity all the wonderful details of the houses, the lanes, the shops and the people she met... well almost all of the people she met. There is a mystery to be solved as the sender of the postcard never revealed his name, but does mention a secret!
Oh my goodness the way the author just brings all the elements of this story together is just wonderful. There is romance, humour, old secrets, old memories and forgotten or unknown facts. There is also a good amount of tension and it all just blends together perfectly.
If you are already a fan of this author then you are going to absolutely adore your first trip to Puffin Island as much as I did. In case you had not realised... I would definitely recommend this book....more
I have not read all the books this author has written, but I have read a few. It seems to me that each time I read one, I feel as if I have understoodI have not read all the books this author has written, but I have read a few. It seems to me that each time I read one, I feel as if I have understood it, but it also leaves me wondering if I have missed a much deeper level of his writing. This one is another, but my goodness it is also such a fabulous book to read.
So, this is one of you like, fiction, fantasy, contemporary fiction, philosophy, mystery, family and friendship. Once again a book that tickets a whole load of genres and probably falls into many more!
When Grace Winters was growing up she befriended Christina, a young woman at uni. It was over Christmas and Grace did not want to see her alone, she gave her hope and also a necklace. She never saw either again. Many years later, Grace has loved and lost. She also gets unexpected news, that this young woman who she befriended has left her a cottage in Ibiza. She can do with as she pleases.
On arriving in Ibiza, Grace starts to experience things that she has never come across before. For the first time in many years, she is given the chance to see the world through new eyes, to experience things as if it is the first time and she starts to live. Before this, she existed, but not lived, this is a chance to start anew but with something much bigger and much more important than herself.
This is one of those stories that absolutely captured my attention, the author has such a mesmerising way of writing and for me, he is someone who just seems to go with the flow as far as his writing and ideas are concerned. I did snigger at the mentions he added at the end of the book thanking people for helping with his weird ideas and stories, and weird does seem to be an apt word for this one. It is also very wonderful as well.
As Grace tries to discover what happened to Christina, she also finds herself looking at the bigger picture. Rather than being insignificant, in her 70s, feeling old and past it, she is given the chance to be part of something important. It does mean accepting things from her past and this is going to be hard. Never mind changing her view but also the views of others around her.
As much as this book is about Grace and her journey, it is also about the delicate ecosystems, the way climate change and human impact are creating havoc and how developments are ripping through habitats. The author blends both the story lines seamlessly together and also adds other things as well.
This is one of those books where I think many people will read it and take similar things from it, but I also think they will pick up things that appear to resonate with them on a more personal level.
I adored this book and the things the author brings into his story. A wonderful, quirky, addictive and captivating story and one I would definitely recommend.
I absolutely adored this book, it is a debut by this author and I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.
It is set in the futurI absolutely adored this book, it is a debut by this author and I am really looking forward to reading the rest of the trilogy.
It is set in the future and is a dystopian novel but it does read like a fantasy. There are mentions of the old days when people's inventions destroyed the earth. Lark is the main character in this story and she has a secret. She has the ability to communicate with people who can be miles away, she is considered to be an unhuman. She has songlight in her and this acts like telepathy, but it is considered to be illegal, unwanted and a blight on the people of Northaven.
Lark has kept her secret for many years, and she is not the only one. There are several of these special people and if they are caught then they have a choice, they can use their powers to hunt for others like them or be operated on, basically lobotomized!
Northaven has its rules and it sticks by them, they are at war and some things are in place that are followed. Such as young women marrying the soldiers who return from war. They may be a first wife or a second wife, or there is the third wide scenario which none of the girls want.
Lark is a fabulous character and the author has brought her out to be quite stubborn but equally as loyal. Along with Lark, there are several other characters consisting of friends, family and enemies. They each have a role and while you may not always be aware of where they stand, they do on the whole leave a mark. Working out the truth from the political deception is an interesting one and there are several dilemmas for the characters to overcome.
I enjoyed this book, it does have a young adult reader feel to it, but I would suggest the older end of it. I enjoyed it immensely and I liked that there were no unfathomable names or places, things make sense and it has all the right feeling of the first book in a trilogy and has left me eagerly awaiting the next one. There is a lot of imagination in this novel and it flows wonderfully.
If you are looking to start a new fantasy trilogy then this one may be of interest to you. I adored it and would definitely recommend it.
This is a fabulous thriller that involves Theo an aircraft pilot, his mother and people from his past and present. The book's title is very appropriatThis is a fabulous thriller that involves Theo an aircraft pilot, his mother and people from his past and present. The book's title is very appropriate as Theo's life spirals out of control as does the aeroplane he is flying.
The synopsis was very intriguing and definitely captured my attention when I read it. The thought of being caught in a loop that replays is good for adding suspense and mystery to a story, and this author has done it very well. This does have an obvious sci-fi edge to it with this time loop that has been included, but it only plays a very small part in the overall story. In some way, this time loop gives the author an additional way to enlighten the reader to the bigger picture.
Theo has never known who his father was, but after discovering some papers he finds that his mother has known who he was. Decidedin he needs to know more about himself and his roots, Theo goes off to the US to find him. What he finds is nothing like he imagined and he enters a world that is dark, and dangerous and will leave him wondering if he will survive!
I really like the way the author used the time loop aspect of this story, each time there was a reset there was a change. In between these the life of Theo, his relationship with his father and other people he meets during his time in the US is told. Alongside this is his mother's story, how she has always feared for him and has been so very protective of him.
Wanting to find his own answers leads to a split from his mother, but that does not mean his mother is about to let him walk from her. After all, she has looked after him and cared for him for all his life and she is not going to stop now.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I found myself wondering just how and if a mother could save so many people and also how quickly Theo's life spiralled down. The story that emerges of their lives and also of Theo's journey takes such a dark turn, but it is not as if he has not been given warnings to stay away. What he imagined is so far from what he discovers and this makes for such an interesting transition from a successful young man to someone who is desperate and on the edge.
A brilliant story with a great slip, well laid out and kept me avidly reading. If you like crime thrillers with a twist then this is one you may like to have a look at. It is one I would happily recommend....more
What a fabulous book this was. A one-sitting read that was addictive from the very first to the last page.
Hannah works in a nightclub owned by Jez. SWhat a fabulous book this was. A one-sitting read that was addictive from the very first to the last page.
Hannah works in a nightclub owned by Jez. She had not realised quite who he was but soon discovered he was not the boss she thought he was. One of his employees is Russ, and he she is warned away from by an ex-girlfriend. Russ runs a shop and it sells items at very affordable prices. Hannah's grandma has been in there buying items and so there is now a link between them as the story then continues. Jez is involved in a development project, it happens to be the same area as the shop owned by Russ and includes the residential area where Haanah's gran lives.
As tensions rise and homes and businesses gradually close or are vacated for the upcoming new development things start to take a nasty turn. This is after all a gangland thriller so you know there are going to be underhand moves, dodgy deals and things that are going to leave people worried.
This is a story that takes place over a period of months, there is a spark between a couple of the characters but there are more dangerous things that gradually occur that make friendships and relationships hard to look at with what is as risk.
This is a dangerous story and one that has serious repercussions. There are many twists in it and the author has done a great job of keeping the reader on their toes. The synopsis does hint at there being trouble and that a mob boss is in the picture. But from the beginning to the end, you are never sure who is going to get the upper hand.
I adored this one and it had me hooked completely, fabulous for fans of crime, thriller and gangland genres. Brilliant story and one I would definitely recommend. ...more
What a wonderful debut this book is. Rita Marsh has a double life, by day she runs a care home and then at night she is part of a group that tracks doWhat a wonderful debut this book is. Rita Marsh has a double life, by day she runs a care home and then at night she is part of a group that tracks down paedophiles. I was not sure how I would get on with a story that involves paedophiles, but the author has tackled the subject sensitively and made mentions of general things rather than going into more detail. This book is more about Rita's understanding of who she is and how the edges of her life have blurred.
Rita has never been one of those girls with lots of friends, so her friend Javid, convinces her to go to the school reunion. When she leaves she bumps into another old friend, Leila. When they were at school there was a rumour going around about a teacher having a relationship with Leila. A recent update about the teacher sets Rita on a path that she believes will help her friend and also gives her a chance to get close to her again.
Rita is a character that has a troubled past, it is mentioned during the story and gives a sense of purpose to why she does what she believes is the right thing. She has been approached by the police to work with them to help increase the convictions rather than just gathering evidence and setting up the perpetrator. This is more important as her previous case did not end well.
When Rita and Leila reconnect there is something there that hints at things not being quite what it seems. While the author brings more to her characters then you learn more. The story gradually gets more tense and the suspicions rise and then suddenly things are unravelling at a fast rate for Rita. There is conflict, drama, and manipulation with some lines being crossed.
The storyline for this story starts as one thing, but the focus changes to being about Rita, those she knows and also how she sees herself. She has become accustomed to seeing herself in a certain way but when she is using different names to catch criminals then things are not as clear as they once were.
This is a story for those who want a dramatic and suspense-riddled story. There is a mystery that runs through this and then there are several moments of drama and tension. This is more of a crime and mystery story it does have a thriller element as well. Fabulous debut and I look forward to seeing what else the author has in the future. It is a book that I would happily recommend to readers.
This is the 3rd book in the Detective Elin Warner series and another mind-twister from this author. The story is set over two timelines and the authorThis is the 3rd book in the Detective Elin Warner series and another mind-twister from this author. The story is set over two timelines and the author gradually links the two together. Along the way, there are some serious twists, plenty of shocks and a realisation that things are never what they seem.
Elin and her brother Isaac are on holiday in Portugal, it is a chance for them to reconnect and spend time together. Elin has been through some rough patches and needs time to get her head around things. Unfortunately for her, Isaac has misled her. He has been asked if he will take a look at an off-grid camp for one of his friends, he is worried about his sister who is missing.
The past is the story of the missing sister, Kier and her boyfriend Zeph have been together and seemed happy. But they had then split just before her brother's wedding. Disappearing off to Portugal and being seen at the off-grid camp.
Once again the author has created a fabulous story with so much tension, drama and suspense. It is such an addictive one and it was only a few page sin that I realised how much I was going to adore this one.
The themes the author touches on are serious, there is trauma, abuse and manipulation. Alongside this, there is also a crime, but how that crime became one and the journey to finding the answers is one that I never saw coming. There were times when I thought I had the answer only to find that my thoughts had been sidestepped by this clever author.
This story has a few characters, they have their roles but there is always the sense that some of them are guarded, hiding things and not letting on what they really know. Once you get to the end and understand the plot you realise why this is important and also how integral it is.
This is a tense and dramatic story, it is set in a secluded area and so this only gives a few options about the who, why, when and all the other questions that need answering. There is a lot of soul-searching for several of the characters and this adds a more personal touch to the story.
I adored this one and I am sorry to see that this is the end of this series, it has been a wonderful one. The other two books in this series are The Sanitorium and The Retreat. I am looking forward to what the author writes next.
If you are looking for a suspense-filled crime thriller then this is one that you may want to have a look at. I have enjoyed all three books and I would definitely recommend this one as well. ...more
A chance meeting at an airport leads Lynch into a deceptive, manipulative and dangerous situation. He has a passing resemblance to a Heydon, a young mA chance meeting at an airport leads Lynch into a deceptive, manipulative and dangerous situation. He has a passing resemblance to a Heydon, a young man who went missing 5 years ago. His sister Bobbi sees Lynch and she has a proposition for him.
This book took me a while to get into and when I did I had to keep reading to see how it would end. The complex plot is forever evolving, the boundaries move and there is no sense of anyone telling the truth. But as much as I enjoyed this I did find myself thinking that I was getting confused as every time one thing was settled, it seemed that something else became unsettled. It was a story that seemed to keep going around in circles.
I do like thrillers that have an interesting or different slant to them and this book has that. The main theme I took from the story was how deceptions keep becoming more and more convoluted. The characters are completely untrustworthy and even when I thought they were telling the truth I was then waiting for another bombshell to drop to realise they were still spinning another lie.
This is a book that even though I enjoyed it, I didn't always get it. The plot became very complex and I am not totally sure that I got the answers to the numerous questions throughout the story. This one wasn't really for me but if you are looking for a story that is character-led with the voice of one narrator then this one may be for you. I would recommend it. ...more
This is the 13th book in the David Raker series and I have only read one other. This one works so well as a standalone thriller and is intense and comThis is the 13th book in the David Raker series and I have only read one other. This one works so well as a standalone thriller and is intense and complex, but it flows so well that it is not confusing during the reading.
Raker has been asked to investigate a case that sees a father, son and son's girlfriend have gone missing. Sarah is wife and mother and only dropped off to sleep for a moment and when she suddenly woke she discovered her family missing from the kayak they were in on a lake in Dartmoor National Park. The police have not really learned anything and Sarah is now wanting to see if there is anything that has been missed. Hence the reason for hiring Raker.
While Raker is working on this case, he gets a call from a security advisor at a casino complex. A man they had detained has gone missing from secure cells and they don't know how. Raker has a reputation for looking into cases such as this but while he cannot investigate directly he has decided to call on ex-police officer Healy to help.
Having two cases is one thing but then there is another case, or series of cases that are also included in this story. The deaths of people over several years in the US, there is a tenuous link as one of the casinos where one of the people disappeared is also owned by the same people as the one in London. What, if and how these cases may be connected is unknown but my goodness the author does weave a wonderful plot throughout this story.
as I mentioned this is a complex case, but not while I was reading the story. The author managed to keep his storylines clear and not showing any links until much later on. The synopsis hints at there being secrets, and yes there are several and they are not at all obvious until the author allows you to start to see them emerging. This keeps the story tense and tight and leans towards the dramatic as things are revealed.
I adored this book and I did enjoy the flitting from one case to another and also across the Atlantic as well. The US section does have a little of going back and forth in time. See... I told you it was complex, but there was such a good flow between all the different aspects that it made for fabulous reading.
This is a story that has so many different things and themes that it makes for addictive reading. I did read this over a couple of days simply because I had work, if not fo that I think I could or would have read it happily in one sitting.
Even though this is part of a series there is enough information given about characters that have appeared in pervious books (at least I am assuming they have) that I didn't feel I was missing out on anything.
An intense crime, mystery thriller and one that involves several crimes. Brilliant book and one I would definitely recommend. ...more
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