Happy autumn/spring. It’s still feeling rather summery as I write this. It might have been summery over the last week, I was honestly too busy to notice. I had two books arrive in the mail last week and I managed to get a couple of hours of shopping in too: The Other Black Girl by... Continue Reading →
REVIEW: Shelter in Place by David Leavitt
In brief: After Trump’s election, Eva decides she needs an apartment to escape to in Venice. For her friends and husband, this sets off a chain of events that nobody expected. But will anyone come clean? The good: Sharp satire and interesting characters. The not-so-good: I was under the illusion this was a political novel... Continue Reading →
Books that left an impression in 2020
2020 seems to be the year that never ends – but don’t wish it away just yet, because today is my birthday! This year, instead of choosing ‘top’ books I’m making a list of books that I read that left a lasting impression. Given that I read 20+ books more than 2019, that’s not an... Continue Reading →
REVIEW: There’s No Such Thing as an Easy Job by Kikuko Tsumura
In brief: A young woman is looking for a new job after a bad experience. An easy job, one that requires no reading, maybe at a desk, maybe outside. As she tries new jobs, she realises a job is about caring and meaning, not easiness. The good: Fun, quirky and sweet. The not-so-good: Left me... Continue Reading →
REVIEW: Destination Wedding by Diksha Basu
In brief: Tina, her best friend and her dysfunctional family are off to India for a wedding. During the week of celebrations, her whole family will have a number of revelations. The good: It’s witty and wonderfully satirical. The not-so-good: This is more character than plot driven. Why I chose it: Sounded like fun. Thanks... Continue Reading →
Mailbox Monday and What I’m Reading: 7/12/20
A busy week – I think I’ve spent most of it in front on the computer tying and clicking. So it was lovely to have some new books delivered right to my door (and on the weekend too!). Destination Wedding by Diksha Basu finds Tina on her way to India to attend her cousin’s wedding.... Continue Reading →
REVIEW: The Codes of Love by Hannah Persaud
In brief: Ryan and Emily seem to have it all, which Emily is sure is due to their open marriage and its rules. But then Ada arrives and Ryan falls in love, while Ada becomes a friend to Emily. Who will win Ada's affection? The good: It's a fascinating, complex look at human nature. The... Continue Reading →
Mailbox Monday and What I’m Reading: 1/6/20
It's the first day of winter and it certainly feels like it! It's been rainy and cold, which is excellent for staying at home and reading. Thanks to the parcel postie and courier drivers who were kind and made sure these books didn't get wet: Better Luck Next Time by Kate Hilton (available 16th June)... Continue Reading →
REVIEW: House of Trelawney by Hannah Rothschild
In brief: Trelawney Castle and its inhabitants have been an institution in Cornwall for centuries. But now the castle is falling down and the family has run out of money. How will they react? The good: Very detailed with unique characters. The not-so-good: Sometimes a little too much detail and not enough action. Why I... Continue Reading →
Mailbox Monday and What I’m Reading: 24/2/20
I didn't quite get one book a day read last week, but I'm blaming the weather and the Amazon Prime membership I was 'forced' to buy to ensure a parcel arrived before a deadline. (James May: Our Man in Japan is excellent). I did get to the shops and my usual postie returned, bringing some... Continue Reading →