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| 0008180997
| 9780008180997
| B01D4WO2IG
| 4.35
| 906
| Oct 20, 2016
| Oct 20, 2016
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really liked it
| "Christmas Cheer" is the second instalment in Bella Osborne's Willow Cottage's series, and it rather should be read as a part of the series, as it sta "Christmas Cheer" is the second instalment in Bella Osborne's Willow Cottage's series, and it rather should be read as a part of the series, as it starts exactly where we left in the first novella and continues on the characters' adventures without all over again going into details about who is who and why. It is already some time since I've read "Sunshine and Secrets" and I was worried that I forgot most of the things and characters but by the end of the first chapter I already felt at home and remembered everything. It was nice to be back in the village, with all its villagers, some more weird than the others, and to see that Beth and her son Leo are getting settled in and finding not only friends but also jobs. One of the jobs involves Beth taking care about Jack's dog Daisy, and oh my word, can this dog create a havoc! But she's a lovely dog, Daisy is, really, and at least it is cleared up why she's getting crazy every time she sees one of the villagers and her trolley. I know that after reading the first part I had some problems with the story following also Beth's best friend Carly and her boyfriend and somehow it just didn't sit with me, as it seemed as if there were two different stories in one book. However, this time, I took it stoically - the sudden switches between Beth and Carly's stories, maybe it just should be like this, and moreover, the stories start to intertwine in my opinion, and Carly is more at Beth's, and it works now. Bella Osborne's writing is getting better and better. It's easy to follow, it's light, with a right dose of humour - there are some really hilarious scenes in this novella! - and seriousness. The characters are developing, and the cottage is taking shape, and I loved to read about all the ideas Beth had and how the villagers were willing to help her. The writing is really vivid and down to earth and I could easily imagine all the things really happening. So it was really great to see Beth and Leo starting to fit in and it is a real pain to see that there are for sure troubles coming in! Of course, this part ended with a cliff - hanger as well, and I think there will be some unexpected visits in the third part, but I am also dead sure that a big, huge understatement happened at the end of "Christmas Cheer" and that it's also going to create chaos and there will be a lot of jumping to conclusions, and it already annoys me because I want to see Beth happy, and I know, deep in my heart, that she and Jack just belong together! I am certain that problems are expecting us in the third instalment, "A Spring Affair" - and I can't wait to read it! "Christmas Cheer" was a funny, poignant and also romantic and festive short story - I recommend it! Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 18, 2016
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Dec 22, 2016
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Dec 18, 2016
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Kindle Edition
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| 1472205529
| 9781472205520
| 1472205529
| 3.90
| 8,223
| Sep 28, 2016
| Feb 09, 2017
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really liked it
| It's already a long, long time since I've read an Adele Parks' book, so I was over the moon when my review copy arrived - it has such a gorgeous cover It's already a long, long time since I've read an Adele Parks' book, so I was over the moon when my review copy arrived - it has such a gorgeous cover, and I also loved the sound of the blurb, so intriguing and so promising. All the raving reviews have also made me desperate to read the book so sooner rather than later I found myself glued to the pages. It is for sure unusual book with a difference. Already the tag line "I thought she was my daughter. I was wrong" is so intriguing and after seeing it many scenarios kept scrolling in my head. It is a story about picking up pieces of broken hearts, about finding yourself afresh, dealing with what must be one of the worst possible things a mother can be told. I think this is a book that you must discover and read for yourself and make up your own mind about it. It started very good, it was quickly paced and we didn't have to wait long for the main secret to be revealed. Then the story is built around this secret and this is when it goes a little downhill for me. There is a lot of talk but not much is happening, in fact. However, then it comes to the surprising end that I didn't see coming, really, it took me totally by surprise and I think this is what saved this book for. However, I can't seem to remember if the author explained what has happened with Mozart? The author makes it easy with her writing for us to immediately fell for the characters, to feel as devastated as Alison, Jeff, Olivia and Katherine. Just imagine - you are a normal family and then someone comes and destroys it and what should you do or feel, as a parent but also as a child? Adele Parks deals with this particular topic in a good way, I think, she explores all the possibilities, gives her characters free rein. She shows how differently they deal with the issue: when Alice is full of despair, Jeff retreats into his own fictional world, Olivia doesn't want to accept any changes, she's hostile and it's only Katherine who's flexible enough and open to changes - but are the changes really so good? Wouldn't it be better to stay in the comfort zones, just like Olivia did? Or is there any particular reason why she's behaving this way? The characters are very realistically portrayed, with all their flaws and problems and the way they coped with the situation seemed also realistic - however, I haven't expected that they come to terms with the situation so quickly, but on the other hand I think they didn't have a choice, right? So their responses, the way they react are plausible and Adele Parks has proved that she's a really talented author - because I think it wasn't an easy task to get into the characters' heads and to write them and their act this realistic way. Alison was a rather controversial character, I think. I don't know guys, but if I were in the same situation I am not sure if I'd pushed so much towards keeping in touch with Tom Truby. She was very quick to judge other people and the way they brought their children up, yet her own methods were not the best in my opinion. It wondered me also a bit that she so quickly gave up on Olivia, and not because she felt loyal towards Katherine but just because the girl was not as she imagined her to be. The book was gripping, even with the moments that dragged too much for my liking. I also had a feeling that the author hasn't managed with the difficult topic so well. There was this great, promising idea but then the development was not as I had expected it. I mean, I didn't know how the story should go, how it should end, what would be better, what would be worst, but I hoped for the better delivery and development. However, I mostly focused on the relationships and the way the author captured them all. This book is a great psychological portrait of all the characters and their way to cope with the situation, showing how they cope (or don't!) with the revelation - and it also makes you wondering over and over again what you would do. I can't imagine I could live normally after receiving such news. I also am not sure if I would like to know the truth or rather happily carry on without such knowledge. The questions in this novel just keep rolling, and the author takes her time to answer them. The tension and the feeling of uncertainty, the questions of what to do are palpable. As it turns out, the story is full of half - truths and lies but Adele Parks' skilful writing doesn't give a hint till the end of what's going to happen. So really, it is not the easiest book to read and rate. It could be much shorter, or it could be written differently, or it could focus on different things, and because of this it was a 3 stars for me for a long time. However, then came the twist - and yes, it was probably the only twist in this long story that was so shocking and unpredictable, that came out of the blue and hit me across my face and made many things in the book clear, and the rating immediately jumped to 4 stars. So whatever you think, keep reading! It will be worth in the end. Recommended! Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 17, 2016
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Dec 21, 2016
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Dec 17, 2016
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Paperback
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| 0008236259
| 9780008236250
| B01N01BYHA
| 3.44
| 1,461
| unknown
| Dec 09, 2016
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None
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Notes are private!
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Dec 12, 2016
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Dec 12, 2016
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Dec 10, 2016
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Kindle Edition
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| B01N68IZXZ
| 4.54
| 164
| unknown
| Dec 18, 2016
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it was amazing
| Ruth Saberton has wanted to write a book about horses for a long time already, and boy, am I glad that she found time to do just this! "Chances" is th Ruth Saberton has wanted to write a book about horses for a long time already, and boy, am I glad that she found time to do just this! "Chances" is the perfect novel for all the horse freaks, and not only, out there, and you can really see that Ruth knows what she writes about - she has brilliantly captured not only the human characters but also all the animal ones. It is a book a little different to what Ruth got me used to, it is more on the serious side and yes, I love her sense of humour and I like the lighter novels that I've read before but I also appreciate the fact that she wanted to try her hand in something more serious. I caught myself thinking that I am a little like Amber - no, not as rebel as she was, but as sensitive as her, and I could totally relate to her imagining what the animals could feel, to having a big heart and understanding them - I'm exactly the same. She was so conflicted inside, our Amber, and Ruth Saberton has wonderfully put all those feelings into words, and I think being able to do just this deserves a standing ovation! I fell for Amber, immediately. Sure, there were moments that I also wanted to slap her or bang her head on the wall but oh well, she's a teenager, so it was understandable she was behaving this way. But mostly I just kept my fingers crossed for her and I so wanted that she finds her happiness. The relationship between her and Chances was absolutely, heart - breakingly beautiful, and as I had a pleasure to see such friendships personally, it was even more palpable and understandable to me. All the other characters in the book were incredibly well written and Ruth Saberton gave them this depth that made them so close to life and realistic. They were full of warmth or anger and they were so easy to like or dislike. I adored Amber's foster family in Cornwall, the way they were there for each other, how they loved and supported each other, and I loved how Harry, after initial problems, was there for Amber and what he did for her. I admired how grown up he felt, how clever he was and the way he negotiated with Amber, or just spoke with her, was just the right to get to her. It couldn't be easy to be Amber and mostly people just gave up on her and it was lovely and touching to see how Kate and her children fought for her. Ruth Saberton's writing is getting stronger and stronger. It felt mature but it also didn't lose the lightness. In the previous books the author concentrated very much on descriptions and as much as I loved them they often kept me away from the main plot. However this time, even though there ARE descriptions, they don't obscure this what really is important in this story, and for me personally it's the next brownie point! Even though the book is aimed at younger readers, I totally enjoyed it. It was mature and there was a lesson or two in it, but you as a reader didn't feel patronized, not at all. Yes, there were moments that everything went so smoothly and you knew it would be impossible in real life, but there were also moments full of tension and sadness and you didn't know in which direction the story is going to go. There is so much more to it than it only being your another horse/pony book and I liked how very well balanced it was, there was just enough about the horses and eventing themselves and yes, I am also a horse-y person, so the professional talk was just as normal for me, but I think that it's not too much or too overwhelming for those who don't talk like this on everyday basis :), and then there was the other side of the book, about bullying, social services, mental health and trying to help. A lovely, touching story about finding new beginnings, about loyalty, friendship and families, and before I could say Jack Robinson I was on the last page. I would love to see more from all the characters and Chances, this beautiful chestnut Arab from the cover, that was so full of spirit and fire - a horse that you can't break, only work with. Beautiful story tugging at all the right heart - strings, I highly recommend it! Copy provided by the author in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 16, 2016
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Dec 18, 2016
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Dec 10, 2016
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ebook
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| 1473538394
| 9781473538399
| 1473538394
| 3.93
| 372
| Nov 24, 2016
| Nov 24, 2016
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liked it
| Ah, there's no Christmas without Katie Fforde's short story! And this time it is a very exceptional one as it introduces us to characters that we alre Ah, there's no Christmas without Katie Fforde's short story! And this time it is a very exceptional one as it introduces us to characters that we already know from "Recipe for Love", which was a great joy for me. There are - for so a short story - many characters in this novella. Many. And the amount of people seems to grow all the time. We are at Fenella and Rupert's who are having friends and family with the assorted children over Christmas, then we have a nanny for the children, then we have friends from work and we also have a very unexpected and not so heartily welcomed visit from the in - laws. And there is also a power cut on the day itself. However, for me, the problem with short stories is that they're... yes, short, and as soon as one thing begins it already finishes, and it leaves me wanting more and feeling that it's just under - developed, and it was like this this time as well. Also, I had a feeling that it is one long dialogue, and when usually I don't have a problem when a book is so dynamic this time I've missed some more descriptions. The plot is full to the brims, there is all the time something happening but because of the length of the story we can't focus on anything in particular. I also had a problem with the "relationship" between Meggie and Etienne, which just seemed too forced and unbelievable. Even though the novella is about characters from previous books it can of course be read as a stand - alone. It is written in this unmistakeable Katie Fforde's writing style, warm and full of respect to her characters. It is full of festive spirit and truly it is about simmering down, clearing your mind for a moment or two, to focus on this what's really important in our lives: family and friends and about forgetting the stress and enjoying this important time at Christmas. It's light, easy and uplifting, perfect to read under the Christmas tree. Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 07, 2016
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Dec 08, 2016
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Dec 09, 2016
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ebook
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| 1785770349
| 9781785770340
| 1785770349
| 3.66
| 226
| May 05, 2016
| Oct 20, 2016
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really liked it
| When I first heard about "Saving Phoebe Murrow" by Herta Feely, and then read the synopsis, I had a feeling that it could the right book for me. There When I first heard about "Saving Phoebe Murrow" by Herta Feely, and then read the synopsis, I had a feeling that it could the right book for me. There are things that bother me so much nowadays, I sometimes think that I was born in the wrong times to be honest, and cyber - bullying, and bullying altogether, belong to topics that are close to my heart. After reading the story I couldn't believe how sick this particular character was! I felt disgust and disbelief and I truly couldn't believe that an adult could behave like this. What's worse, as the author says herself, such thing happened - Herta Feely was inspired to write this book on an actual event of cyber bullying, an event that didn't end in a good way - and to think that there are really such sick people in the world makes me scared. Actually, this one extra star is for the topic of this book, which is incredibly in - thing, important and should be better controlled. It is one of my biggest fear that one day my daughter could experience something like Phoebe has experienced. It is a very thoughtful and insightful book about bullying - cyber bullying, to be specific, and I incredibly felt for the fourteen year old Phoebe, your usual, average teenager for whom appearances are everything, for whom being popular and having the right friends is the be - all and end - all and who was so blameless in all this chaos that ensued around her. The author in a very realistic, shocking way describes what's happening and what kind of pressure it is on the characters. This book is brutally honest and I really felt uncomfortable when reading it - but not because the book was bad or something, no, because I can't believe that people are capable to do such things and because I fell for Phoebe so much. The writing style is very engaging and accessible and easy to follow and the characters and their acts got under my skin. Those were actually the character that made "Saving Phoebe Murrow" so special and outstanding. They were the best kind of characters who made you change your mind about them - they twisted my opinion on them, back and forth, over and over again. They are very, very well drawn! Their personalities are brilliantly captured and they are so very different, which makes the reading so much more interesting. I had some problems with Phoebe's mother, Isabel, to be honest, she was really über - caring in my eyes and yes, I know it's easy to say such things from the reading sofa's perspective, but she was much too controlling, much to arrogant and much too abrasive and judgemental, and not only towards Phoebe but towards all other characters, even her own husband. She judged people on the way how they look like or what kind of job they have - hello? Sure, we want to protect our children, but we can't shut them off from the whole world, they have to make their own mistakes and the mistakes made by Phoebe were not as bad as she thought. But for Isabel things were either black or white, there was no grey area in her life. Sandy is a very interesting, complex characters in my opinion - a woman whose only goal in life is to fit in and make right friends, just like her child, but fails, which changes her incredibly. It was easy to indentify with Phoebe, even though she's in her teenage years and I am already a mother myself, having forgotten about high school and all the ups and downs, but reading about her own ups and downs brought some of the things back. I found myself understanding her emotions, her anger, fear, sadness. She was such a kind girl, really, who didn't deserve this what's happened and this being so cruel and nasty. Social media plays of course a very big role in this story. It is so easy to turn against your friend when you're hidden behind the computer screen, when you think there are no consequences or when the consequences won't pique you personally. It was a relatively well paced read and it was full of tension and uncertainty but also a lot of concern for what's going to happen. The things that bothered me a little were the many shifts in the points of view, there were moments it dragged on a little for my liking and to be honest, the end didn't sit with me so well. It was too abrupt, too rushed and didn't feel like the end at all and I like when the characters that deserve it are punished. However, I was totally engrossed in this story and I was desperate to know what's going to happen. It was a very convincing debut about the effect of bullying and the pressure of belonging to the "right" circle of people. A book that makes you think, that is thought - provoking, showing how devastating the consequences of half - baked ideas may be. "Saving Phoebe Murrow" is really true to life and probably this is why it made me feel so scared - I hate to think that something like this may happen to my own daughter in a few years time. I'm not sure what I'd do in such situation, it's such an awful thing to happen. I am already looking forward to Herta Feely's next novel. Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 09, 2016
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Dec 10, 2016
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Dec 09, 2016
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Paperback
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| 1782396276
| 9781782396277
| 1782396276
| 3.68
| 3,463
| Jan 05, 2017
| Jan 05, 2017
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really liked it
| "Everything you Told Me" is my first book by Lucy Dawson, even though I have her previous novel "You Sent Me a Letter" on my never ending TBR pile, bu "Everything you Told Me" is my first book by Lucy Dawson, even though I have her previous novel "You Sent Me a Letter" on my never ending TBR pile, but as I've heard many good things about this author and her writing, I made sure to read the newest release in time for its publication. This book turned out to be a great slow burner, with brilliantly developed characters and complex plot. It was an ambitious, clever and twisty read that stays in your mind even if you're not reading it. I was already hooked when this crumpled £400 taxi receipt, just like the one Sally finds in her pocket, arrived ahead of my review copy, and as soon as the book hit my doorstep I started reading it. Sally is a stay - at - home mother, Chloe is 4 years old and Theo is 6 months, and it is Theo that's causing so many problems, as he's a very bad sleeper. Sally and her husband Matthew are trying to cope but they are both on their tenterhooks - mostly Sally, as she's the one looking after children while her husband can work, and as much as she was tired and at the end of her tether, she loved her children above all - it was crystal clear for me, so I was also sure she would never put them in danger voluntarily. One day Sally wakes up in a taxi, 250 miles away from home, with the right amount of money to pay the taxi - driver and a piece of paper that turns out to be her suicide note. She doesn't have any recollection of what happened and how she got there. Back at home, she's surrounded by her friends and family, all of them trying to help her - or is someone trying to make her feel uncertain, unsure and paranoid? Or does Sally really need professional help? As I have already mentioned above, the characters in this novel are brilliantly developed and described, and truly, they all made wonderful suspects for me. Some more, some less, but when you read the book for yourself you'll see what I mean. There was not a single character that left me feeling unsuspicious, and everyone was under my suspicion at one point, maybe except for Sally's father. They all had motives and the author took her time to mess with our heads with the web of lies, secrets and manipulations. This is this kind of story that make you suspect every single character. Even though I must admit I relatively quickly set my heart on one person, I didn't rule out any other person - there could happen anything, really. As it turned out, I was right, but only 50% right. Ha, you can say, how can you be only half right, either you are right or not - but THIS is THE TWIST. The surprise that blew me totally. Intrigued? I hope so - please go and get a copy of this book! It is also this kind of read that'll make you think and wonder, and I think there are two ways your mind can go - either you'll be on Sally's side or against her. Everything was possible, in my opinion, and even though I belonged to those who believed Sally, there WERE moments that I was doubting her. The story is told from her point of view, she's the narrator, so it made the book even more intriguing, because you were never sure if she's a trustful narrator or not. They were also those kinds of characters that I rather do not take close to my heart. I don't mean that they're unlikeable or something, it's just that I didn't trust them and didn't want to feel disappointed at the end. I fell for Sally, of course, I could partly relate to her and understood her problems, and I hated to see how the others don't believe her, how they try to make her paranoid, how they play her and in the end she didn't have a single person who she could turn to and ask for help. The only thing that spoiled the book for me a little was that there were moments that really felt too far - fetched, too exaggerated and impossible to happen, some situations too clichéd and some of the characters were self - obsessed, and I think I can't change someone's life only because I feel it's the right thing to do. But these are only small things and altogether, I really enjoyed this book. Lucy Dawson is a very talented writer who skilfully and cleverly delivers a tale full of tension and suspicion. It was really this kind of book that made me want to look at the last page to see if my suspicions are right and it took almost my all willpower not to do this - because I didn't, which I'm proudly reporting here - I didn't skip a single word, to be honest, I was so absorbed in this story that I didn't want to miss a thing. It got under my skin, guys, it intrigued me and also annoyed me - but I can't say why, I'm scared I'll let slip too much and spoil the read for you. "Everything You Told Me" is a brilliant read about manipulation. I wouldn't call it thriller, to be honest, maybe psychological suspense? Because it kept me gripped and it was full of tension and suspense. A slow burner, but in such books you don't need incredible pace, you rather need it to be slower, with the right number of questions and misunderstandings, and you get it all here. I really liked how cleverly the author made the lines between lies and truth blur - the way she wrote it made me want to know the truth immediately! She skilfully put the wool over our eyes and made the journey to the truth very twisty and curvy, but without making it too overwhelming or tiring or keeping it on too long and hence losing our attention - by giving very subtle clues she made me feel desperate to know the truth and to read further. A great read, guys, highly recommended! Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 12, 2016
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Dec 15, 2016
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Dec 05, 2016
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Paperback
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| B01MG8O968
| 4.14
| 769
| Nov 01, 2016
| Nov 01, 2016
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liked it
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3.5 stars. "An Off - Piste Christmas" is my first book by Julie Houston but I was immediately drawn to this cover and the description made me hope that 3.5 stars. "An Off - Piste Christmas" is my first book by Julie Houston but I was immediately drawn to this cover and the description made me hope that it's going to help me to leave the actual reading slump behind. As previously I didn't know much about this book, I also didn't know that this is a second novella featuring the Westmoreland family, however through many hints I started to guessing it. But you can absolutely read it as a stand - alone novel, as there are enough flashbacks and the author gives enough information for the new reader to know that and what happened in the past. However, now my curiosity is piqued and I will be for sure reading the previous novels in the closest future! My biggest problem was the number of characters. Honestly, to the end of the book I wasn't sure who is who, why and with whom they are together. It was confusing and I hoped that there comes a moment I'll see the light bull over my head but sadly, it didn't happen and eventually I stopped trying with the characters. It spoiled the reading a bit to be honest. As it took me almost till the end to unravel who is related to who, to be honest, so maybe a short introduction at the beginning of the story wouldn't go amiss. Also, the very complex and complicated nature of the relationships with a daughter dating the main character's best friend's ex - lover and father of her baby, and all of them going together on a fancy skiing holiday, even though the main character hates skiing... It was too much for me, to be honest. At first the story felt too slow, maybe because of the millions of characters being introduced, but then it often felt too rushed and the things were happening so conveniently, and also I personally am not sure if bringing back dead characters to life is such a good idea - it didn't sit with me and this subplot felt much, much, much too far - fetched for my liking. However, "An Off - Piste Christmas" was a very light read, and it made me chuckle and smile. I also immediately fell in love with Julie Houston's writing style, that is not only full of humour but it's so easy to follow, it's light, warm and - let's forget about the number of characters for a moment - I immediately felt at home. The millions of characters are likeable and believable, with their flaws, problems and interactions, and with so many of them there are many mishaps, misunderstandings and also bitching involved. The story is full of really funny scenes, and only the idea of going on the ski - holiday when you're scared of heights and hate skiing is a hilarious one, but it is also full of much more emotional moments and it touches upon some sensible issues, and this is all perfectly mixed. Altogether, it is a short, funny and light novella taking place in a beautiful setting, full of snow and mouth - watering descriptions of food. It's fluffy and quick read and I personally enjoyed it with the few twists, turns and curveballs. Copy provided by the author in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 2016
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Dec 07, 2016
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Dec 01, 2016
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||||
| 1444796046
| 9781444796049
| 1444796046
| 3.85
| 2,223
| Dec 01, 2016
| Dec 01, 2016
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it was amazing
| It is unbelievable but "All I Ever Wanted" is my first Lucy Dillon's book - but certainly not the last, as this novel has totally convinced me and it It is unbelievable but "All I Ever Wanted" is my first Lucy Dillon's book - but certainly not the last, as this novel has totally convinced me and it made me experience all kind of emotions. It was a beautiful, gentle story about a family that goes through a rough patch in their lives. Caitlin and Patrick's marriage wasn't working as well as they'd like it to and Patrick's acceptance of a job in Newcastle was the last straw - Caitlin refuses to move there with the children, she wants to stay at the house she has inherited from her grandmother, her "safe place". For Patrick it is a sign that Caitlin has other priorities in life and it signifies that their marriage is over. I was thinking this story is going to follow Caitlin and Patrick's life, but it doesn't only focus on their family, as there is also Patrick's older sister Eva, and her story was an unexpected bonus for me. Now, in perspective, I think the author really knew what she's doing, taking the whole focus from Nancy and sharing it with Eva, as it truly made the story more complex, it added some layers to it and for me personally it made the book a whole big bit more interesting. What I really liked in this story is the fact that Lucy Dillon doesn't let us feel pity or anger with one character for a long time, she then changes tracks and our opinions change as well. I was mostly team Caitlin, as I didn't like Patrick. He came across as a cold and work - obsessed person, and I had a feeling that his work was a kind of escape for him, and I also hated the way he patronized Caitlin and that he didn't appreciate her, and the way he was towards her was not the most friendly one. But there came a moment that I thought I won't hold on to Caitlin anymore. It was just like Patrick said, she behaved as if there were two different kinds of morals for her, rules that all other should keep but that weren't valid to Caitlin, and I was really scared it's going to destroy this book for me. I was tired with her, and annoyed, and also desperate, and I hoped that she'll eventually stop behave in this childish way, blaming all the other people for her failures and not feeling satisfied. And then I started to feel more sympathy towards Patrick - he was so desperately trying to do the right thing but somehow, somewhere has lost his priorities and everything turned wrong for him. Caitlin was thinking only about herself and her selfish behaviour put her children in danger more than once or she's just forgotten about them, forgotten the promises she'd given them and it just didn't sit well with me. Those were the moments when Patrick was supposed to pick up the pieces and make everything go smoothly again. So it is like this: I never actually warm to Patrick totally but I've lost many warm feeling for Caitlin - I didn't like Patrick's bossy and patronizing ways, and I didn't like Caitlin's helplessness and letting everyone to take a lead. And then there is also Eva, who thought she knows her late husband so well but after reading his diaries she starts to think that perhaps she didn't know him as well as she thought - the worst thing now is that she's never going to get answers to her questions now. Lucy Dillon brilliantly describes her characters, they have depth and complex personalities. I couldn't help but fell for Nancy immediately - it was so easy to imagine her as this talkative, positive, joyful girl because my Sophie is almost the same age as Nancy, and from morning till evening she talks, sings, hums, laughs and I can't imagine that it should suddenly stop. It was really heart - breaking to see how this little girl clams up, withdraws. Joel, aged 10, who loves acting, is just as talkative as his sister, and very prone to accident, acting as his sister saviour and always stepping in to help her. The story flaws so effortlessly! The scenes with the children sound so realistic and they are just like real kids their age. The sub - plot of Eva and his late husband, Michael, added tons to this story, however I'd love to read much more from his diaries, and especially the parts that his two ex - wives had. There was so much more to this sub - plot, and the more it was developing, the more I could find myself rooting for Eva and falling for her. It touched upon many issues, about hiding your biggest dreams only not to hurt your beloved person, and then about living ruefully. Eva loved her husband totally but now she's left alone only with two pugs and many, many questions and with his diaries and some things he's written there makes her start to think and revise. This book is a slow burner to be honest, at the beginning it made me feel a little uncertain - I wasn't sure if it's a book for me, as there seemed not much happening. However, as it slowly develops, I found myself falling in love with all aspects of this story, with the writing style, characters, the way it was written, and it quickly turned out that it may not be a fast paced book but it is much, much more and it has many layers that only wait to be peeled off. The author is testing her characters, filling their lives with ups and downs, with regrets but also hopes and I loved this rollercoaster journey of feelings and emotions. She explores there relationships, needs and wishes, lost hopes and desires. Dividing the book into two stories was a great idea - even though the stories were quite different they also had something in common and I liked how they were linked and how they interwoven. I liked how down - to - earth this novel was, showing how it really is in life, in relationship. The characters are not perfect, they make a lot of mistakes but they do it in a good faith and they try to be the best mother, father, aunt. They're not honest with each other, just like it is in normal life, when we tell white lies or keep some things for us only, and it's only in the end that they eventually open and start to be honest with each other - and it was so believable and genuine. "All I Ever Wanted" was a really engaging story about family dynamics and coming to terms after a separation. It sounded down - to - earth and I found myself most of the time rooting for the characters and hoping things will change for them for better. Highly recommended! Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
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Nov 26, 2016
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Dec 04, 2016
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Nov 26, 2016
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Paperback
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| B01INGSRDO
| 4.07
| 60
| unknown
| Dec 01, 2016
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really liked it
| "The Reading Group: February" tell us a story of Kate. Her marriage to Anton seems to be a little shaky and they have some problems, and then - you wo "The Reading Group: February" tell us a story of Kate. Her marriage to Anton seems to be a little shaky and they have some problems, and then - you won't believe it! - Bob the Builder enter the scenes. This time the girls are reading "Lady Chatterley's Lover" and somehow the theme of the classic book, sex and infidelity, links to Kate's life. What I really enjoyed in February were the similarities between "Lady Chatterley's Lover" and Kate's life - namely the problems and troubles in marriage, then there were the class differences, the forbidden feeling, desire and finally hope that love can conquer it all - but can it? Yes, the stories are sometimes too predictable, too far - fetched, sometimes too rushed and sometimes too slow, and the things seem to happen so easily and the pieces to fall into the right places almost effortlessly, but they were lovely stories and I enjoyed reading them. The friendship between the girls is brilliant and even though they don't see or talk to each other every day, they know they can count on each other and they always support each other. The stories are full of romance, humour, sarcasm and poignant moments and the writing style is excellent, it is warm and it has this "something" that keeps you glued to the pages. I am already impatiently waiting to see what's in store for us next. ...more |
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1
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Nov 27, 2016
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Nov 28, 2016
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Nov 23, 2016
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Kindle Edition
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| B01INGSXUQ
| 3.72
| 95
| unknown
| Dec 01, 2016
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really liked it
| "The Reading Group: January" follows Anne - Marie's story. Now, I need to complain a little, as Anne - Marie came much too selfish, self - obsessed an "The Reading Group: January" follows Anne - Marie's story. Now, I need to complain a little, as Anne - Marie came much too selfish, self - obsessed and immature for me and the only thing she was able to think about were men. So with such a character I'd usually have problems with the story itself, this time however the writing style and actually the story itself saved it for me! Anne - Marie is young but already successful and probably because of being a little bored she tries her hand at matchmaking - well, her best friend is getting married with a guy she got to know at Anne - Marie's birthday, so there! And so Anne - Marie decides to set up some of her friends with new men. However, later, it turned out that Anne - Marie - even with her privileged upbringing and no worries - she was not afraid to help when she was needed, to get cracking and to clean at her customers herself, and that she has a heart made of gold and wants all her friends to be happy. Of course, as each month the book that reading group is reading somehow "correspond" with the character, the girls are reading "Emma". I was a little disappointed at the beginning not seeing more of the reading group itself, of the girls, but then I thought, well, each story is devoted to one of them, so I'll get enough of them later. Here we got to know Anne - Marie's friends Manda and Sophie - and you can for sure say that Della Parker creates her characters in a brilliant, deep way, and even though I've missed a little of Anne - Marie's past because maybe there was an explanation to why she was as she was, I still enjoyed all of them and I liked their banter and their easy - going dialogues. Yes, the stories are sometimes too predictable, too far - fetched, sometimes too rushed and sometimes too slow, and the things seem to happen so easily and the pieces to fall into the right places almost effortlessly, but they were lovely stories and I enjoyed reading them. The friendship between the girls is brilliant and even though they don't see or talk to each other every day, they know they can count on each other and they always support each other. The stories are full of romance, humour, sarcasm and poignant moments and the writing style is excellent, it is warm and it has this "something" that keeps you glued to the pages. I am already impatiently waiting to see what's in store for us next. ...more |
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1
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Nov 23, 2016
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Nov 26, 2016
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Nov 23, 2016
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Kindle Edition
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| B01INGSX60
| 3.52
| 782
| unknown
| Dec 01, 2016
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really liked it
| "The Reading Group: December" is a perfect, short introduction to the series and to all the characters. Even though we meet all the girls very briefly "The Reading Group: December" is a perfect, short introduction to the series and to all the characters. Even though we meet all the girls very briefly, you could immediately feel the special bond between them and how supporting towards each other they are. Each month follows one of the five characters, and in December it is Grace who is in the spotlight - her, her husband and her triplets (boys!), one of whom is very ill. It was a touching story, but also uplifting, as really it was lovely to see how understanding and unselfish all the other reading group girls are. ...more |
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Nov 22, 2016
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Nov 22, 2016
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Nov 23, 2016
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Kindle Edition
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| 0751564788
| 9780751564785
| 0751564788
| 3.69
| 19,002
| Oct 11, 2016
| Oct 20, 2016
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it was amazing
| Guys, really, I love Jenny Colgan more and more, and her every new release is better than the last one, and soon I will have to rate the books with 10 Guys, really, I love Jenny Colgan more and more, and her every new release is better than the last one, and soon I will have to rate the books with 10 stars or more. Even though I wasn't the lucky one to receive a review copy of "Christmas at the Little Beach Street Bakery", without hesitation I clicked the "buy" button on Amazon because I knew that with this novel the author is for sure going to take me back to a lovely, full of warmth place and larger - than - life, cordial and sincere characters, and this is what I needed so much! There was a basic introduction to the book at the beginning of this story, or a quick reminder to those who read the previous novels, and also the author mentions things that happened before, so yes, I would say you could read "Christmas at the Little Beach Street Bakery" as a stand - alone novel but please do read the first two books! You can't imagine how much you'd be missing without reading them! And as I not only love Jenny Colgan but I love the Little Beach Street Bakery books so much it breaks my heart to see that it is the last book in the series (though the author herself says "probably the last one" - so maybe there is hope!!!) - there is so much potential in the characters and I would love to see more about Polly and Huckle. These two are the perfect couple, don't you think? Their relationship is so honest and so genuine, with all the awkward moments, the problems and the way they act and react, and the dialogues are just so spot on! Polly is still working at her bakery, baking all sorts of incredibly sounding breads and cakes, and you know, I read a lot of books that centre around food, but Jenny Colgan always manages to make my mouth literally water and she makes me to long to transform myself into a domestic goddess baking ciabatta or spelt bread like crazy. I already have a Jenny Colgan apron, so actually nothing prevents it, right? Polly lives in a lighthouse with Huckle and, of course, we can't forget about the most important character in the story - namely Neil the Puffin! This book just wouldn't be the same without Neil - this time slightly overweight and behaving probably like a dog, but that's just Neil and guys, there is going to be a third children's book featuring Neil! I personally can't wait. Neil and his "eeeps" just made me go weak at the knees and he's not only funny, but he's Polly's real solace and he always knows when she's sad. Huckle wants to take their relationship (I mean, Polly and Huckle's, not Neil and Huckle's) this one step further but there is something holding Polly back - what is it? Cold feet or something more? And is Huckle going to wait until she eventually decides? This book also centres around Polly's friend Kerensa and her eccentric but - please let me say this - with a golden heart - husband Reuben. Kerensa might have made a mistake that can turn to be a real problem with huge consequences. She needs Polly more than ever, but can Polly keep Kerensa's secret, as she and Huckle don't have any? You know what, I think that if you showed me the book without telling me who's the author, I'd immediately be able to tell that it's Jenny Colgan - her writing style is so special and it's her hallmark and she can really put into words feelings and emotions that I've no idea you can at all describe! There is a spark, a flair in Jenny Colgan's writing. It is warm and so descriptive without being too patronising or without focusing too much on things that are significant but overdoing them. The writing style and the storytelling make you feel welcome and keep you glued to the pages and in the end "Christmas at the Little Beach Street Bakery" is this kind of book that you want to read for ever and ever but finds yourself finishing it in a few sittings. I was completely absorbed in this story and I desperately wanted to know how it's all going to end - the many subplots that added so much charm were truly hooking, and it was funny and poignant at the same time. The characters are facing many, many problems, nothing runs smoothly to be honest, but the way they deal with those problems is not only realistic but also convincing and I often found myself nodding my head and feeling I'd do the same. It was absolutely brilliant to catch up with the Mount Polbearne characters and with this island village itself. I didn't have any problems to catch up with all the characters, it truly felt as if I was back with good, old friends of mine. Polly was always there for her friends, and it was a lovely aspect of her - even when she put all of them before herself. But it was also great to see that those friends were also there for Polly. This story mentions probably all of the characters that have ever entered the scenes of the Little Beach Street Bakery series, and even the puffin sanctuary has a problem this time! We, of course, keep to see Jayden who's baking with Polly, there is Serena, who now lives in a flat above the bakery and somehow this really felt as if Jenny Colgan is tying up all the loose ends. This time also the author gives a deeper insight into Polly's background and even though it somehow didn't sit with me so well, as it felt so sudden, it was also poignant and made me feel the history has just went round in circles. Jenny Colgan can also wonderfully put into words her love to Cornwall and its wild and moody beauty. And Mount Polbearne itself, where the tide can prevent you from leaving the island or coming back home - hard but it has its appeal! One of the subplots in the book was the fact that Polly wasn't too willing to take the next step and marry Huckle, and I must admit that it was probably the only thing that made me feel a little frustrated - with Polly. Because, to be absolutely honest, I couldn't so much understand her dilemmas and indecision, especially as it was crystal clear that she loved Huckle to the moon and back and their love has already weathered many testing times. Yes, she explained, and I could see where she was coming from but still it was incomprehensive to me. And there came a moment that I was so, so scared! I was scared that Polly will drive Huckle away and that he won't come back and that there won't be happy ever after after all... It was, however, of course brilliantly written and the moments when she realised she can't live without Huckle were so beautiful, and yes, I wanted to bang her head then but I also respected her fears. Little Beach Street Bakery is one of my favourite series - all the books have the feel good factor to them and brought me tons of happiness. And really, guys, I adored "Christmas at the Little Beach Street Bakery". Simply, I adored it. It had all what I'm looking for in books and much, much more. You can easily feel that Jenny Colgan has poured her soul and heart into writing this book, it is detectable - the characters are unforgettable, lovely people that found a place in my heart, the setting is described with lots of love and events are so close to life. It is a perfect winter read, a MUST HAVE this winter, and please, make your friends and family happy by giving them a copy of this beautiful novel for Christmas - they'll be delighted with this lovely and festive story about love, friendship, troubles, worries and secrets but also about hope and forgiving. Highly, highly recommended! ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 19, 2016
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Nov 22, 2016
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Nov 12, 2016
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Hardcover
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| 1784162396
| 9781784162399
| 1784162396
| 3.22
| 2,060
| Dec 01, 2016
| May 04, 2017
|
really liked it
| "What Alice Knew" is for sure a book with the wow - effect. It is controversial and it truly touches upon difficult issues and decisions to be made an "What Alice Knew" is for sure a book with the wow - effect. It is controversial and it truly touches upon difficult issues and decisions to be made and really I didn't know in what direction the author is going to continue with the story, what is he going to choose, true or lies. I personally was all the time wondering what I'd do in such situation. Nevertheless, I think that no matter what the decision, there wasn't one that would be good for the characters. Alice and Ed Sheahan have the perfect life - she is a popular painter, he is a very respected obstetrician. They have two great kids and a beautiful house. But then, one night, Ed goes missing and after that their lives take a very different turn. Alice and Ed must ask themselves, how far would they go to protect their family? Please, don't be fooled that it's a book about a wife trying to save her marriage and her husband's reputation, because there is much, much more to this story! This is a very complex story following many themes, however it is very easy to keep on track. It is full of tension, questions, secrets and lies and it made me think, not only about THE question, but also about its controversy, morals, ethics and my own safety. It actually made me question everything I read about. I personally was absolutely taken by surprise with the way the plot took on, especially after reading in the synopsis that Ed went missing, and I was expecting a totally different tale about searching for him. But this what I got has absolutely lived up to my expectations and the novel had me glued to the pages, as I couldn't wait to see how it's going to end. In fact I was incredibly tempted to just look at the last page and see the end and it cost me a lot of willpower not to do it. So maybe it is the fact that I was waiting for a very spectacular finish, with fireworks or unbelievable turn, made me feel so little confused when I finished reading, not knowing what to think. Because - and here is my personal "but" - the ending. It disappointed me to be honest and I'm not sure if it's because it was such a big surprise that I didn't see coming or because it is the one that I was not happy with. I also know that making Alice a painter was author's cognizant decision but for me the passages about art, as much as they were probably significant to the plot, were not working for me - they were dragging me away from the story and they were just too much for me. I know. I should be more sophisticated. But even though the passages about art were not so much my cup of tea, I still appreciated them and I think there was something lyrical, nostalgic in them, and there were moments that the sudden change from art to real life was like a jump into cold water, so cooling and shocking it was, first the softness, beauty and in the next second the brutal reality. The writing style was one of the strongest points of this book and I had a feeling that the author really knows what he's writing about - it was rich, very intelligent, eloquent, taking many points of view into consideration. I also had a feeling that the story is much too chopped, as if the author just lost his thought or didn't know how to connect the events - all extremely well written but there was something missing. There was a lot of inner monologues and will he/will she, though I still must admit that the story never felt flat. Personally I couldn't stand Ed. He was too smug, to self - confident for my liking, but to be honest, Alice also annoyed me incredibly, and I had a feeling that she's very uncertain and that even though she's a very talented painter she doesn't believe in her own talent, and it truly, madly made me angry. The author has really done a great job with pulling wool over our eyes and presenting some possibilities and I think that we, as readers, could never be sure how the story is going to end. I think it is such compelling and gripping read because it makes you wonder what you'd do in such situation and how hard it's to deal with truth sometimes. I think that nowadays, when so many psychological thrillers are written, it is a hard job for a book to stand out of the crowd but I also think that "What Alice Knew" doesn't need to be afraid. It is a thriller with a difference, with a unique look and there is suspense and it's a pretty good read. Yes, the book had me hooked and I was incredibly intrigued and I am already waiting for T.A. Cotterell's next book - "What Alice Knew" was truly great debut. Recommended for all who are in a need of a very tense, not obvious read. Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 11, 2016
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Nov 13, 2016
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Nov 11, 2016
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Paperback
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| 1503940047
| 9781503940048
| 1503940047
| 4.29
| 12,800
| Dec 01, 2016
| Dec 01, 2016
|
it was amazing
| Even though I haven't read an Amanda Prowse book for a long time now, I do remember that all of the novels that I had a pleasure to read made a great Even though I haven't read an Amanda Prowse book for a long time now, I do remember that all of the novels that I had a pleasure to read made a great impact on me and I still know that I cried crocodile tears when reading them, so I was guessing what's in store for me when starting "The Food of Love". The book started slowly, more like your usual chick - lit book and there came a moment that I began to feel nervous, as it seemed that in fact nothing is happening - the Braithwaites, Freya and Lockie and their two daughters lead perfectly normal lives, sometimes they are struggling money - wise, sometimes it's better, but what was very clear was that they love each other. However, soon it became clear that there is a second layer to this story, that something has happened, because at the end of each chapter the family is writing letters to one of their member, and it looks like they don't have a lot of time left - but what has happened and what's going to happen when they time is over? This book has awoken millions of feelings in me. Yes, at the beginning I wasn't too sure, as it started relatively slowly, and then Freya made me feel so, so annoyed, and I also wasn't sure if I'm right because guys, I thought I was supposed to feel sorry for Lexi, and what I felt was anger - a hot, red anger that she's so weak, that she's so stubborn, that she is the one who doesn't want to stop, and in my own eyes I felt like a monster - but when I finished this book, I was in a mess and I needed time to sort out my feelings, which is always a sign of a good book! What's more, I am still thinking about it. The characters just got under my skin, they are unforgettable and the realistic way the story was written have just wowed me over. Maybe because it is probably my first book about anorexia it really made an impact on me. Amanda Prowse has just got under Lexi's skin and in a very distinctive, clear and detailed way showed us what she felt and what it was like for her and her family, how they all felt and how much it influenced their lives. But to be honest, this book could easily be a one star read - because of Freya. I know how strong mother's feelings are but there comes a moment when you need to realise that your child's life is in danger and it's up to you to save it. As much as I fell for her and felt with her, I also wanted to slap her, shake her and tell her to wake up and that it's not a time to wonder if Lexi will still love her, is she will forgive her, it is time to act! I was in fact wondering if it's at all possible that the doctors didn't force the family to put Lexi in hospital, seeing that her life was so in danger - I don't know if there are any laws and if there is a moment that they can act even against family's wishes. To be honest, now, in perspective, I am not sure how Freya could watch her daughter to lose weight, hair, bones and will to live and not do anything, only hope that love will mend everything. Love is powerful, but it's not everything in such cases. I know how hard it can be to be a mum, but this all went just too far. And the other aspect of Freya - she herself was also obsessed with food and she belittled people who were not controlling their appetite, or was dismissively talking about bigger people eating fast food - was this what Lexi noticed and remembered? On the other hand, as a mother, I have a feeling that nobody can do my job as well as I do it, so I also felt sympathy with Freya. Yes, I am totally torn when it comes to this woman. But I loved the Braithwaites as a family - their banter, the way they were around each other and it was painful to see how each of them was affected by the illness. Freya, Lockie, Lexi's sister Charlotte... Thanks to the author I had a feeling that together with them I am experiencing the pain, the novelty of this all, the fear, anger and other feelings and emotions. I also felt so sorry for them with Freya reacting like this, being obsessed to solve the problem all by herself because "she's Lexi's mum" - hello? Lexi's dad and sister wanted to help as well, and maybe they were to do it much better but they just didn't get a chance. Lockie's frustration was so palpable and so heart - breaking and I was awestruck that he lasted for so long, and my heart went to Charlotte, it was so, so tough for her, to see the sister that she loved so much suddenly deteriorating, but also finding herself neglected. But even with Freya, this book gave me the shivers and I am praying every day that a disease like this will never afflict my family, and I can't stop thinking about the book and the characters, which is always a sign of a great book. I admired the passages where the author seemed to just got into Lexi's head, as all the feelings and fears were captured in an incredibly realistic way, brutally honestly showing how out of control she could be - not only over her body, but also her mind. It was shocking. Truly shocking. "The Food of Love" is a powerful, emotional rollercoaster, and once we feel hope and in the next second we feel hopeless and powerless, full of anger and incomprehension how powerful this horrifying disease is. The author has, in a very detailed way, showed the readers the lengths people suffer from this illness, not only the victims of it, but also their families and beloved ones. It is a slow burner that then turns into a real page turner. It is unforgettable and it is incredibly important. Amanda Prowse is a very skilled storyteller and she brought all the characters, dialogues and situations to life. She showed the other side to an ordinary and happy life, the harsh reality and how to face to it. It is a great story about unconditional love, honesty and the great importance of a supporting family, but it's also about being able to admit defeat and ask for help. A very important read that couldn't be missed! Copy provided by the author in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 13, 2016
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Nov 19, 2016
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Nov 11, 2016
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Paperback
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| 1786811073
| 9781786811073
| B01MQ1NCRS
| 3.93
| 2,504
| May 07, 2015
| Dec 08, 2016
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liked it
| I haven't read a book by Robert Bryndza for a long, long time and when I saw that "Miss Wrong and Mr Right" is to be requested on NetGalley, I jumped I haven't read a book by Robert Bryndza for a long, long time and when I saw that "Miss Wrong and Mr Right" is to be requested on NetGalley, I jumped on the chance and started reading it immediately after downloading it. It was an OK book, not the one that is going to stay with me for long but still one that I wanted to finish. There were some aspects that usually annoy me incredibly, such like the all - knowing grandmother, which I just can't stand in the books, especially when the grandmother is so pushy like Anouska - really, guys, inviting someone to a christening only because you think that this is the right person for my granddaughter, even if the granddaughter has nothing to do with this person, it's a no go and it's not funny. Also, yes, there were moments that the one - liners were funny but altogether I had a feeling that this humour is just too forced - it just didn't feel too natural and mostly I was rather rolling my eyes than laughing heartily. Some of the scenes were OK, some made me laugh but altogether it was just too much for me. The relationship between Natalie and her "love" interest was not too convincing, it also felt too forced and frankly, it didn't work for me as it was just so stilted and I had a feeling that the characters were bulldozed to do it. Then the sudden switch and change - the end felt much too rushed and also out of the blue. The characters... well, the characters. I really am not sure what to say about them. Natalie's boyfriend Benjamin and his namastes were one of the most annoying heroes ever and it annoyed me that she fell under his spell for so a long time. Natalie herself is more like a doormat and more than often lets people to tramp over her, while Jamie, the long - lost love is missed in action for 15 years to suddenly and very conveniently pop up at the scenes. Actually, all the characters more caricatural and cartoonish, as the story itself was for me more like a comedy of errors, a grotesque - the burlesque dancing queen with the fancy name (Tuppence?) for example. So probably I just didn't get the story, didn't get into the heart of it, which is a pity because I really wanted to like it with my whole heart - but am already waiting for Mr Bryndza's next story, as his writing style is light and easy to follow and as I totally enjoyed Coco's series, I know he has for sure much more for us in store. I spent some enjoyable time with this book but I didn't like it as much as I expected from this author. It was an easy read, albeit too predictable and too chaotic for my liking. I liked the idea of setting the story in a theatre in London, bringing there a Hollywood star to cast in "Macbeth" and it's a pity that the idea was also somehow left hanging, was under - developed. So yes, there was a lot of potential and the book had its moments but altogether it was not a read that is going to stay with me for a long time. Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for a review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 20, 2016
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Nov 20, 2016
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Nov 10, 2016
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Kindle Edition
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| 1786481715
| 9781786481719
| 1786481715
| 4.26
| 209
| unknown
| Nov 03, 2016
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really liked it
| Oh guys, yes, I admit, it took me some time to decide if I want to read this book - you know, dogs in stories + moi = crying endlessly, no matter what Oh guys, yes, I admit, it took me some time to decide if I want to read this book - you know, dogs in stories + moi = crying endlessly, no matter what the result, if happy or sad - but when I've seen this gorgeous, adorable cover and the puppy eyes, I was sold. The author has brilliantly captured Teddy the dog and his personality, and she perfectly well knew when he should wag his tail or hide behind a chair - she really knew what she was writing about and Teddy was so close to life! I loved how his little heart was full of love and adoration and how well Ms Bell put in words his thoughts and the way he perceived the world of two - legged creatures. She wonderfully described all the antics and shenanigans and troubles Teddy put himself into and I could only sigh with understanding as I also been there, seen this, experienced it all. It was so touching to see and hear how much he tried his best, how much he tried to behave and how often it all went completely wrong, just like in a real life really. I totally adored his relationship with Emily. While so often the authors can't really well write children characters, making them too adult or too immature for their age, I think that Emily was really brilliantly captured. My heart often went to her and, as a mother myself, I could only too well imagine how desperately her parents have felt seeing her so ill. So yes, Teddy was lovely, though I must admit that I had some problems with personifying him so much. I mean, I am the first to tell you that animals DO have feelings and understand everything but Teddy was too human sometimes. He was also a great actor, just like all dogs are, they really do know when to play innocent, hungry, tired, and Teddy was a real champion of this. What also didn't sit with me were the moments of two dogs "talking" to each other. It was already weird, but also interesting, to have a dog as a main character and the main point of view, but the moments when Teddy was talking with his neighbour Lady were a little too much. Of course they were needed - from Teddy's point of view, he needed some explanations - but for me they were just this little too far fetched. Yes, it's a story that is full of clichés, that is predictable and incredibly sweet, but it's a story about Christmas and at Christmas miracles and impossible can happen, right, and somehow I've just bought it all. It is also a poignant, and sometimes funny story of a beautiful friendship, hope and unconditional love. I was only expecting for some drama and for Teddy's previous owners to appear to add some troubles but perhaps the author considered that that would be too much for Teddy. But altogether, it was a lovely, cute story that tugs just at the right heart - strings. It follows a very simple formula and it has all the elements, like Christmas, abandoned puppy, very sick girl, devastated parents and some Christmas magic, and I read it with a pinch of salt, but I think it would be a perfect Christmas present, especially for younger readers, are there are some very important messages hidden there! It is not as fluffy as you could think, judging on the cover, there is depth to it, there are feelings, and emotions, and yes, I admit, more than once I could feel some tears trying to run down my face, but it also made me smile and - yes! - believe in magic, believe in people and in impossible happen possible. So "The Christmas Gift" was a lovely, fast - paced and light story that, even though a little predictable and clichéd, I personally loved and I will for sure introduce my daughter to it one day. It was funny and at the same time poignant and it didn't show life's bright side but simultaneously it was also uplifting. It had all what one can look for in the festive read: snow, cute puppy, love and family. Recommended! Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 09, 2016
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Nov 10, 2016
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Nov 09, 2016
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Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 000818996X
| 9780008189969
| B01D4WRFCG
| 4.21
| 53
| Nov 10, 2016
| Nov 10, 2016
|
really liked it
| One thing is certain. Till now I've only read Lynsey James's debut novel and I had some problems with it. However, "The Silver Bells Christmas Pantomi One thing is certain. Till now I've only read Lynsey James's debut novel and I had some problems with it. However, "The Silver Bells Christmas Pantomime" is Lynsey`s fourth book and I can absolutely, totally ascertain that it is much, much better than her debut, both in writing style, characters descriptions, storytelling and general feel. I was a little sceptical of requesting this author's book after the first novel that I've read but now I actually regret not doing it! "The Silver Bells Christmas Pantomime" is the third and final book in the "Luna Bay" series and I was a little afraid when starting it that I may be confused or that maybe I'll miss too much on the previous books, that I haven't read. However, it was not the case. I'm guessing the story mentions previous characters but it is actually dedicated to Alice Woods, I'm guessing a new character to the series. I totally loved the idea of the pantomime, and I totally loved the actors! Again, the feeling of community was great in this story, and I always so adore to see the villagers supporting each other, but also pushing their noses in others' people business, no matter if wanted or not. And Lynsey James has created here some very unforgettable characters, believe me! Next to our main heroine Alice Woods, who is lovely, guys, she's so normal and down to earth, and so genuine with all her feelings, we have for example Christabel who's been taking charge of the pantomime for years. And making it a disaster every year, even though it's her pride and joy, but as Christabel knows everything better there is nothing - and nobody - stopping her! Until Alice decides she gives it a try, only to jet off her mother from her. Then we have Lucy and Emily, and I'm guessing the previous stories were about them, and as the girls were so lovely, warm and full of fun I desperately need to read their stories! And let's concentrate shortly on the male characters, and especially Ethan Fox, mmmm, Ethan Fox that played Mr Darcy..... Ethan Fox, who seems to appear everywhere Alice is... Ethan Fox that made my heart beat faster... And the brilliant, colourful cast members of the pantomime, so entertaining and so full of life, who only waited to show their true talents. I liked the romance aspect, and even though Ethan was a Hollywood star and suddenly found himself in the little Luna Bay to catch a breath, it was still believable and they both, Alice and Ethan, with their awkwardness, uncertainty and problems only made it feel more realistic. I also liked to see Alice blossoming - you could think three years of grieving are enough, right, because starting to live again doesn't mean forgetting, no? Yet somehow I felt sympathy for Alice and fell for her and it was a great joy to see her coming back, to see the new Alice, not shy and keeping herself to herself anymore. For me personally the second half of the book went a little downhill. While the first half kept me totally entertained, I had a feeling that then it slowed down a little, there were too many repetitions for my liking, when the character were re - telling what's happened, and I had a feeling that it's not as light - hearted and funny anymore. But still, it was a great and engaging read. no worries there! So altogether, this book is full of positive vibrations, feel - good factor and it was a great joy to read it. A lovely story about friendship and leaving past behind but not forgetting it! It's about courage and about coming out of your comfort zones and pluck up the courage again, about learning to trust and hope again. The writing style was flowing, it was lovely, warm and inviting, and the author has filled the story not only with great characters but also with very palpable feelings of friendship, despair, love, hope, romance, and there were some surprises and twists on the way as well! A lovely, festive read that put a smile on my face, just what I needed! Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Dec 10, 2016
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Dec 16, 2016
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Nov 06, 2016
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Kindle Edition
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| 1786810867
| 9781786810861
| B01KSCY5GO
| 3.89
| 947
| Oct 14, 2016
| Oct 14, 2016
|
it was amazing
| Ahhh, Sue Watson's new Christmas book! Brilliant! I know that when I start reading Sue's novel I am for sure going to meet a mature heroine that life Ahhh, Sue Watson's new Christmas book! Brilliant! I know that when I start reading Sue's novel I am for sure going to meet a mature heroine that life has just turned upside down, facing new challenges and adventures and usually reaching their goals. And this is what I love in Ms Watson's books and I hope she will follow this lovely, uplifting formula for longer - because it simply works. Our main character Jen has waited many years for her boyfriend Tim to propose and then, one day, when they are in the restaurant celebrating her birthday, shortly before Christmas, she's sure that this is the day when he's finally going to pop the question. Is he? Fast forward a little and Jen is trying to come to terms with living on her own, crying over her best years she has dedicated to Tim, but also mending bonds with her much younger half - sister Jody. Well, Jody is actually the only family that she has, so when she asks Jen to come with her to Switzerland to work over Christmas (and, of course, to have a great time! Snow! Glühwein! Après ski!!!), Jen finally agrees. I think that Switzerland is becoming my favourite setting for Christmas novels. I was there once, unfortunately not in winter, but autumn in Switzerland has its appeal as well - just think about all the Milka cows with their bells - they really have them! This time Sue Watson has effortlessly brought the beauty of the place to life and now my Christmas wish is to spend my own Christmas there. I adored Jen. She was so normal and so accident - prone! She got angry, she felt disappointed and deceived and this was all so natural and close to life. Then I adored her even more, with all the accidents she had in Switzerland - they were hilarious and they made me laugh out loud, to be honest. The relationship between her and Jon, the lovely and handsome and understanding ski instructor, felt also so genuine and realistic, it was full of misunderstandings, awkward moments and jumping to conclusions, but it was so, so cute...! The fact that Jen was changing is also a brownie point for the author. At the beginning Jen wanted to plan everything and she was your typical spinster with a cat, but being in Jody's company - Jody, who was cheerful, who lived life to the fullest, who didn't care about appearances and what people will say - let her come out of her shell. Yes, it often ended in a disaster or wet clothes or making a clown out of herself, but there is always a bright side as well, right? Jen was really, truly damaged by her relationship with the stiff and deprived of sense of humour Tim and she was always thinking what Tim would say - to say that Tim has damaged her self - esteem would be probably an understatement. So really, it was a great joy to see her blossoming, finding her new self but also staying true to herself and her beliefs. The characters were so, so lovely and so, so hilarious! I loved the girls that Jen went to Switzerland with, there was not a single boring moment in their company, oh no! I was curious how Jen is going to deal with them all but she adapted so well and she quickly became one of them, but also staying herself, if you know what I mean. They always did so many things out of Jen's comfort zone, but she just closed her eyes and tried this new and exciting world. The girls' idea of a working holiday was a little bit different to this what I might have perceive as a working holiday, and Jen as well, but hey, why not. It was also great to see how the two sisters, who didn't really know each other, grew closer and closer and eventually became not only sisters but also best friends. I loved the part that Jody played in the story, no matter if she knew that she's on a mission or not. She was much younger than Jen but sometimes she was much wiser than her half - sister, especially when it came to bringing Jen back to life and showing her that you can always have fun, you can always enjoy your life and that you should never lose hope. The difference between the two relationships of Jen - this with Tim and this with Jon - was brilliantly captured and showed how much influence Tim had on Jen and how much it cost her, and also how much patience and encouragement from Jon it needed. While Tim always criticized Jen and lived on routine, Jon prompted her to try, to make mistakes, to live spontaneously - no need to tell you who was better for Jen, right? "The Christmas Cake Cafe" was a lovely, if sometimes a little too clichéd and tad predictable story, but oh my word, I didn't read this book for its unpredictability! My only "but" would be that the romance aspect with Jon sometimes felt too forced and some of the events that happened when Jon and Jen got to know each other, and also some of the later situations, just seemed too rushed, too forced and too accidental. I don't want to spoil the storyline, so I may sound a little vague, but this is my feeling. The second half felt also a little too rushed in comparison to the first half but well, it didn't spoil the reading, not at all. And yes, so many of the characters' names beginning with "J", it was a bit confusing sometimes. However, there were enough twists and turns to have me glued to the pages, it touched upon more serious issues, such like dreams and wishes, it was full of humorous moments, the setting was perfect and it was already full of the festive spirit. It was uplifting and joyful and I loved how easy the reading was, and how effortlessly the author transported me to Switzerland and to the characters' world. It was a light-hearted but also serious story and I love how Sue Watson mixes those two things together and how great the story was. There was skiing, there was a cow onesie and - of course! OF COURSE! - there was delicious food, especially Christmas cakes, that made my mouth water. Even though the title Christmas Cake Cafe is not the main focus in this story, it does play a significant role there, and dear god, please let me try all the cakes that they sell there - only once! "The Christmas Cake Cafe" is a great, uplifting novel about learning how to be free again, how to be yourself again and how to enjoy life. It is about relationships, love, family and looking for a happy end and gaining a lot on the way. There is this overwhelming feel - good factor to this multi - layered story and this is just what the doctor ordered - highly recommended! Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Oct 30, 2016
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Nov 07, 2016
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Oct 30, 2016
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Kindle Edition
| ||||||||||||||
| 1471155552
| 9781471155550
| 1471155552
| 3.91
| 2,390
| Nov 03, 2016
| Nov 03, 2016
|
it was amazing
| Last year I read and totally enjoyed Kate Furnivall's "The Italian Wife", so I started reading "The Liberation" with my expectations highly set - I re Last year I read and totally enjoyed Kate Furnivall's "The Italian Wife", so I started reading "The Liberation" with my expectations highly set - I really expected a lot from this novel and from this author. And believe me, guys, it is a long book, with almost 600 pages, but there was not a single dull moment and the author kept me in dark, adding a lot of tension and suspense , and I. Loved. This. Book. Everything there had its own place and even though it started relatively slowly - but hey, with such a long book there is no pressure, right, and it was brilliant that the author took her time to slowly introduce us to all the threads in this very complex, very advanced and expanded plot - there came a moment that I couldn't get enough of the reading, that I couldn't put the book down. The story is set in Italy, post - war, with the British and American soldiers still present in the country, trying to bring order back to Italian lives. When Catarina Lombardi was only ten, her mother has left her family, abandoning her and her baby brother and leaving her father as a single - parent, and also causing a scandal in the traditional Italy. Now, eleven years later, it is 1945 and the war is over, but it is far away from Naples living in peace - hence the American and British soldiers staying there. Caterina lives now with only her young brother and a blind grandfather, as her father has been killed when working in his workshop by a bomb explosion, so it is up to Caterina to keep the heads above the water. She stepped into her father shoes and is now creating beautiful boxes and items from wood that she sells in Naples, often to the soldiers. But when two of them, out of the blue, visit her at home, disturbing, turbulent and eventful times come for Caterina and she soon finds herself fighting for her own, as well as for her family's, lives, freedom and desperately trying to discover the truth about her family's past. Is she going to find answers to all her questions? Is she going to bring danger on her family? The writing is so rich and so full of imagination and Kate Furnivall has transported me with her descriptions effortlessly to Italy and the tension and uncertainty was palpable through the pages, the Italy was bustling and the characters were effortlessly brought to life. They are so incredibly well developed and Catarina is a brilliant lead character - she was strong - willed, she wasn't afraid to put herself into dangerous situations only to help her family and to clean the honour of her father; she was stubborn and she had a great ability to find the truth and she never took any prisoners, and she only felt satisfied when she's seen things with her own eyes, which of course led her to many dangerous situations and often endangered her own life. But in my eyes she was a real inspiration, she was bold, incredibly loyal and searching. There were many characters introduced to us in this story and the author has made them all so complex personalities, and I really wasn't sure who is there to help Caterina, and who is there to disturb her. It often happens that you feel almost paranoid when reading about such characters however not in this story. It kept me on my toes, it made me feel suspicious but it also made me fell incredibly intrigued and I wanted to discover who is the person I can trust. Every single character was so very significant to the plot, even the most background ones, and their appearance always added a new question, a new curveball and I loved, I simply loved, how in the end, somehow, all the characters and their stories, come together. Kate Furnivall described life in Italy with so many small details and captured all the problems, fears and tension that bothered people in those times, and it was often so heart - breaking to see what people were forced to do only to survive. She has described the groups of children running wild on the streets, she has told us how the women needed to earn their bread and what kind of things kept people stay alive when Italy was trying to run again after the war. She has also shown how corruption, conspiracies worked and how hard it was for people like Caterina, people who were honest and didn't want to hurt anybody, to survive. One the main mysteries in the book is the one about Caterina's father, Roberto - it seemed he was being involved in things that Caterina didn't want to believe in, that she wanted to shut out. Among this mystery all the others are built, creating a story with multiple layers, slowly falling away and making the novel incredibly hooking. Among the team being involved in the investigations are Jake and Harry, two American soldiers who are trying - or maybe disturbing - Caterina to find the truth, as it seems that her beloved father has known much more than his daughter thought. And it was really this moment when the book took off and never stopped - the author fed us with new information and details but in a way that I've never felt overwhelmed or confused. The way the author was adding clues and tips was so, so clever and subtle! But personally, I haven't predicted what was coming, I didn't guess any of the threads and for me it is a sign of a really brilliant, cleverly plotted story. I enjoyed the fact that the author took me on a curvy rollercoaster journey with her story, I just went with the flow and more than once I wanted to gasp in horror, more than once I wanted to shout to Caterina to be cautious and more than once I found myself totally surprised with the turn of events. This story is masterfully plotted! I often found myself holding my breath at the new curveball, at the incredible web of lies, secrets and understatements, and how the Italian traditional family bonds, how the view that the family honour is the most important thing in the world could change lives. I, with a great joy and admiration, watched how those secrets were slowly being resolved and how all the pieces of the puzzles found their places. I also can't express enough how much I admired the lot of work and research that the author for certain has put into writing this novel. It was grand, complex story with many layers and I couldn't wait for them to be peeled back, to see what's hidden and what exciting things are to come yet. "The Liberation" is an epic tale. It is a power house of a story. It is full of brilliantly developed and expressive characters with their own distinctive voices and stories that added a lot of tension. There is mystery to be solved, dazzlingly tangled, not at all obvious but rather keeping you on your toes and getting under your skin, as you are desperate to know what has really happened. There is suspense, there is romance and this all in the right quantity and masterfully and skilfully dosed throughout the whole story. The writing is beautiful, engaging and rich in descriptions and details but not in the way that makes you want to skip some of them because there are too many of them - I personally didn't want to skip a single word, as for me they were all so important and significant. It is a story of love and hate, of loss and win, of honour, loyalty and hope. It is full of heart - breaking moments as well as many uplifting moments, it is a historical fiction with a difference and I will be recommending it to all my friends - it is a book that shouldn't be missed! Copy received in return for an honest review. ...more |
Notes are private!
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1
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Nov 2016
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Nov 02, 2016
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Oct 29, 2016
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Paperback
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my rating |
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|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
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| 4.35
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really liked it
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Dec 22, 2016
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Dec 18, 2016
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| 3.90
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really liked it
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Dec 21, 2016
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Dec 17, 2016
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| 3.44
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Dec 12, 2016
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Dec 10, 2016
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| 4.54
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it was amazing
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Dec 18, 2016
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Dec 10, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.93
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liked it
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Dec 08, 2016
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Dec 09, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.66
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really liked it
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Dec 10, 2016
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Dec 09, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.68
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really liked it
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Dec 15, 2016
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Dec 05, 2016
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|||||
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| 4.14
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liked it
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Dec 07, 2016
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Dec 01, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.85
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it was amazing
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Dec 04, 2016
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Nov 26, 2016
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| 4.07
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really liked it
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Nov 28, 2016
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Nov 23, 2016
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| 3.72
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really liked it
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Nov 26, 2016
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Nov 23, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.52
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really liked it
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Nov 22, 2016
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Nov 23, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.69
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it was amazing
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Nov 22, 2016
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Nov 12, 2016
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| 3.22
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really liked it
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Nov 13, 2016
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Nov 11, 2016
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| 4.29
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it was amazing
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Nov 19, 2016
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Nov 11, 2016
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| 3.93
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liked it
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Nov 20, 2016
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Nov 10, 2016
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|||||
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| 4.26
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really liked it
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Nov 10, 2016
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Nov 09, 2016
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|||||
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| 4.21
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really liked it
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Dec 16, 2016
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Nov 06, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.89
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it was amazing
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Nov 07, 2016
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Oct 30, 2016
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|||||
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| 3.91
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it was amazing
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Nov 02, 2016
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Oct 29, 2016
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