Aria and Liam-The Druids' Secret

Aria and Liam-The Druids' Secret

By Alizee Monsarrat

Genre:-Children's Fiction-Adventure/Historical/Fantasy

Age:-9-12 Years

Publisher:-Apice Publishng

Blurb:-Inheritance is the climax of the Landscapes of Love trilogy. The sensual relationships of Charlie, Daniel and Anne Marie intensifies, as they track down the poachers to the gold mines og Western Australia. Charlie lives on the large family estate in the spectacular Yorkshire Dales. Since university, where she was physically abused by a wealthy American fellow student, she has had no interest in developing relationships and has thrown herself into managing the estate and enjoying her successful business as a landscape photographer. Daniel is an independent mercenary who works for governments and wealthy organisations around the world. He uses the financial rewards to run conservation programmes for white rhinos in Kenya and mountain gorillas in Rwanda. When his wife is killed, he uses his business skills to track down those responsible in the whole 'white gold' supply chain across the world and destroy them. Anne Marie is a very intelligent and extremely beautiful Afro-American who helps Daniel with his dangerous work. Anne Marie develops a passionate love for Charlie.

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My Review:-The author has included on intro at the beginning of the book where we get to meet two thirteen-year-olds, Aria and Liam. We learn a bit about them both and what they have been getting up to. If you know the story of King Arthur, you will love this, a different take on it. The Druids have the map that Aria and Liam need to help find the tree with lighten strip, three rocks, two horses, a squirrel and a lake. they need to find them before it's to late. I don't do spoilers so if you need to know why and if, you will have to read the book. I will be reading the other six books by this author.

Complication

 

Complication

By Fikret Pajalic

Genre:-Contemporary Fiction/Short Stories

Pages:-188

Publisher:-Pishukin Press

Blurb:-In this gripping short story collection, Pajalic depicts working-class characters in all their gutsiness and glory. Featuring animals in most stories as a motif for grief and hope, Pajalic alternates between tender stories of survival and the gritty underbelly of Melbourne's Western suburbs. Even when his characters are shady and flawed, morality and conscience shine through.

 Drawing on his own experiences, Pajalic recreates first-hand the reality of coming to Australia as a refugee because of war and persecution. While many of the stories focus on the experience of Bosnian disapora, it also tells the universal story of the refugee experience exploring homesickness, loss, grief, cultural shock, and making a new home in a landscape completely different to where you come from.

 'Raw, authentic and compelling, these stories of refugees' generational trauma and pain also honour the resilience and determination of the characters. Bracing and rewarding reading. 'Paddy O'Reilly author of Other Houses.

 'Reminiscent of Carver, Pajalic's stories are sharp, direct and austere. A fascinating read.' Ennis Cehic author Sadvertising.

'Like Chekhov who thinks that for a writer nothing should be unclean, Fikret takes us to murky places where English is broken and pit bulls are prized; bodies are ravaged by manual labour and generosity abounds as often as brutality. Humanity there is uncovered, revealing itself to be as instinctual and capable of ferocity and sacrifice as the many animals that populate Fikret's stories. In Complication Fikret uncovers the origins of violence with unflinching insight and unwavering compassion.' Lee Kofman author of The Writer Laid Bare.

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My Review:-Complication is a collection of short stories, based on Pajalic own experiences when being moved from Bosnia to Australia. Even though there is pain in these stories, I felt there was still a shadow of hope. One of the stories I liked was 'Wasps' about a man and a hive of mud wasps, I did find this is one of those of hope. I decided to read one of the shorter stories first, but ended up going to the beginning of the book and reading from there as they left me wanting to read more. Some of the stories are easier to read than others. There is a trigger warning at the front of the book, you can scan the QR code or go on the line to find these warnings. 

Inheritance- Landscapes of Love

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 Inheritance-Landscapes of Love

By Philip Tyler

Genre:-Contemporary Fiction/Literary Fiction/Romance

Publisher:-Pickhill Publishing

Blurb:-Inheritance is the climax of the Landscapes of Love trilogy. The sensual relationships of Charlie, Daniel and Anne Marie intensifies, as they track down the poachers to the gold mines og Western Australia. Charlie lives on the large family estate in the spectacular Yorkshire Dales. Since university, where she was physically abused by a wealthy American fellow student, she has had no interest in developing relationships and has thrown herself into managing the estate and enjoying her successful business as a landscape photographer. Daniel is an independent mercenary who works for governments and wealthy organisations around the world. He uses the financial rewards to run conservation programmes for white rhinos in Kenya and mountain gorillas in Rwanda. When his wife is killed, he uses his business skills to track down those responsible in the whole 'white gold' supply chain across the world and destroy them. Anne Marie is a very intelligent and extremely beautiful Afro-American who helps Daniel with his dangerous work. Anne Marie develops a passionate love for Charlie.

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My Review:-This is Book Three in 'Landscapes of Love'. I have had the pleasure of reading and reviewing Book One-Catharsis and Book Two-Retribution. In this book we met Sarah, who has inherited an old estate that once belonged to a distant relative. As Sarah starts to look further into the estate she becomes drawn into mystery and secrets that goes back through generations.

 Through the books we have seen Charlie, Daniel and Anne Marie relationship has developed, both within themselves as well with each other. Philip has managed to bring us conservation, family, mystery, friendship, relationship and romance wrapped up in these three books. I feel like I have travelled on this journey from the beautiful views of the Yorkshire Dales, to the plans of Africa and then to the gold mines of Australia with friends, sharing the good and the bad together. But I have to say I think Philip has kept the best to last. 

In Memory Of Us

In Memory Of Us

By Jacqueline Roy

Genre:-Literary Fiction

Pages:-384

Publisher:-Simon & Schuster

Blurb:-What does it mean to remember?

 Joined at birth, the pulled apart, Selina and Zora's relationship is marked by a pattern of closeness and separation. Growing up in 50s' and 60s' London under the shadow of Enoch Powell, they are instinctively dependent on each other, and yet Zora yearns for her own identity. But in the eyes of the people around them, the twins are interchangeable. They come as a pair. Thy are Selzora.

 Now in her seventies and living with the early stages of dementia, Selina is tracing shards of memory. She is intent on untangling the traumatic events of the past that changed the twins' lives. Perhaps Lydi, who has reintroduced herself to Selina with sharp, cool charisma, will help her find answers. But even as Selina struggles to make sense of her memories, it's all top clear that Lydia is hiding something.

 In Memory of Us is a profound evocation of memory, and the strategies employed for illusion and survival in the wake of racism. It offers an often-overlooked insight into life as a Black Briton after  the Windrush generation.

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My Review:-Zora and Selina are identical twins. They are so alike in many ways that people have given them a nickname 'Selzora'. Growing up in the 50s and 60s wasn't an easy time, especially with being identical, racism, having a white mother and a black father. W.hen the twins made friends with nine-year-old Lydia, it wasn't long before Lydia started playing Selina and Zora off against each other. But she didn't stop there, but I don't do spoilers, so you need to read the book to find out. As Selina's dementia progresses she gets in touch with Lydia to see if she could help with things that she's not clear about, but Selina decides not to tell Lydia about her dementia. Is Lydia going to tell Selina the whole truth about what happened. I loved everything about this book, the writing style made the book easy to read but also you don't want to put it down until you are finished

The Imposter Cure

The Imposter Cure

By Dr Jessamy Hibberd

Genre:-Self-help & personal development/Assertiveness, motivation & self-esteem/the self, ego, identity, personality/Popular, psychology/Coping with stress/Coping with personal problems

Pages:-304

Publisher:-Aster/Octopus Books

Blurb:-A solution-based self-help book that explores the psychological impact of imposter syndrome.

 A newly updated edition for 2024.

Imposter syndrome is a phenomenon in which people believe they are not worthy of success. They convince themselves that they have done well due to luck and are terrified their shortcomings will eventually be exposed, making it impossible to enjoy their accomplishments.

 the Imposter Cure explores the psychological impact of imposter syndrome and exposes the secrets fears and insecurities felt by millions of men and women. Dr Jessamy Hibberd provides sound expert advise to help the reader better understand the problem and overcome it, so they think differently, gain self-belief and learn to see themselves as others do. Filled with case studies to bring the concepts alive and packed with strategies to increase confidence, this book is a must-read for anyone who has struggled with their achievements.

'You've definitely heard of it, you've almost certainly felt it and it's actively stopping you from being your best self. In a new book on imposter syndrome Dr Jessamy Hibberd provides a definitive guide to understanding and tackling the psychological mind trap.'-The Sunday Times

'Dr Jessamy teaches you the tools to break free from those self[sabotaging thought patterns that are holding you back from your own success.'-Hazel Wallace, The Food Medic

'If you suffer from imposter syndrome, this is definitely a must-read!'-Goodreads reviewer

'I have suffered with imposter syndrome my entire life [...] in the few days I have been reading this book I have done an almost complete 180.'-Goodreads reviewer

'Dr Jessamy writes in a clear and accessible way and includes lots of practical solutions for overcoming the imposter thoughts.'-Goodreads reviewer

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My Review:-I've never heard of 'Imposter Syndrome'. Even if you have not got Imposter Syndrome you will find this a really interesting read. There are three parts of this book, Part One-Understanding Imposter Syndrome, Part Two-Why you are not an Imposter, Part Three-How to say Goodbye to the Imposter for good. Within each part there are chapters you will find everything you need to understand and start living an easier life. There are empty pages at the back of the book to write notes or anything else. There is also sections for Reference, Resources and Further information, along with an Index and a bit about Dr Jessamy.

The Spy Coast

The Spy Coast

By Tess Gerritsen

Genre:-Crime Fiction

Pages:-368

Publisher:-Bantam/Transworld

Blurb:-Maggie Bird is many things. A chicken farmer. A good neighbour. A seemingly average retiree living in the seaside town of Purity. She's also a darned good rifle shot. And she never talks about her past.

 But when an unidentified body is left on Maggie's driveway, she knows it's a calling card from old times. It's been fifteen years since the failed mission that ended her career as a spy, and cost her far more than her job.

 Step forward the 'Martini Club'-Maggie's silver-haired book group (to anyone who asks), and a cohort of former spies behind closed doors. With the help of her old friends-and always one step ahead of the persistent local cop-Maggie might still be able to save the life she's built.

 The Spy Coast is the first novel in the Martini Club series.

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My Review:-This is Book One in 'The Martini Club'.  To anyone that knows Maggie Bird, she a sixty-year-old chicken farmer and a good neighbour, but to others it's not as simple as that. When Maggie finds a body on her driveway, knows that it means something bad. Maggie knows just where she can turn to for help...'Martini Club' her book club. It's not just any book club, it's a club of retired CIA spies. After fifteen years, why Maggie and what do they want from her? I love a good thriller and I can say this is on my top five now. I loved everything about it, the plot, character and the pace. It's a book that I didn't want to put down, so I also got it as an audiobook so I could listen to it while doing other things.

Eye Spy

Eye Spy 

By Tessa Buckley

Genre:-MG Children's Detective Story 

Ages:-9-12 years

Pages:-160

Blurb:-Over the course of ten days, the lives of thirteen-year-old Alex Macintyre and his twin sister Donna will change forever.

 When Alex and Donna set up Eye Spy Investigations and start looking for a valuable missing dog, they soon have an interesting assortment of suspects. There is the mysterious man in the fur hat; a gang of bikers who hang out at the Starship Cafe; and Crazy Kath, the bag lady, who may know more than she's letting on.

 But as they struggle to make sense of the evidence, the twins begin to uncover an even bigger mystery in their own family. As events spiral out of control, can Alex resolve a family crisis. save Donna from imminent danger, and return the missing dog to its rightful owner?

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My Review:- We get to meet thirteen-year-old twins Alex and Donna Macintyre, they live in the seaside town of Holcombe Bay. The twins lived with their Dad, who like to try to invent things and their Nan, after their mam died. The twins wanted to earn some money so they decided to set up 'Eye Spy Investigations' and it wasn't long before they had their first investigation, The job was to find Kiki, a missing dog, they also come across some new friends but also a secret about their mother. You will have to read the book to find out what. This is a great book, it has a bit of everything, friendship, secrets, family relationship, mystery, and even school 

Artificial Wisdom-Read Along Q3

 

Artificial Wisdom - Read Along

By Thomas R. Weaver

Q3:-Chapter 11. Do you agree with Lockwood that the future of humankind should be in the hands of humankind? or do you think Al could play a role in governing us?

A:-I agree with both in a way, human should be able to make their own choices to a certain degree. Not all humans can manage their own life so this is where Al should step in.

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Artificial Wisdom-Read Along Q2

Artificial Wisdom - Read Along

By Thomas R. Weaver

Q2:-Chapter 6. What would your own egospace look like?

A:-My egospace would be somewhere by the sea, where I could look out and see children playing, but it's quite and I am curled up on a bed, blanket over my legs with my dog, a drink and a good book

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Artificial Wisdom-Read Along Q1

Artificial Wisdom - Read Along

By Thomas R. Weaver

Q1:-Chapter 1. The book is set in the near future. Do you think this is easier or harder to write about than a book in the past or present?

A:-Not sure, if the past or present you can look it up, if it the future, you could write about most things as nobody knows what the future will bring.

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The Sleeping Beauties

The Sleeping Beauties

By Lucy Ashe

Genre:-Historical Fiction/Historical Thriller/Dance/the Arts

Pages:-336

Publisher:-Magpie Books/Oneworld on 15th February 2024

Blurb:-An unputdownable tale of obsession, jealousy and heartache against the backdrop of WW2

 May 1945 and at long last, Rosamund Caradon is feeling optimistic. As she returns the last few evacuees to London from her Devonshire manor, she vows to protect dance-obsessed daughter Jasmine from further peril. But a chance meeting with a Sadler's Wells ballet dancer changes everything.

 When the beautiful, elusive Briar Woods bursts into Rosamund's train carriage, it's clear her sights are set on the immediately captivated Jasmine. And Rosamund cannot shake the eerie feeling this accidental encounter is not what it seems.

For Briar may be far away from the pointe shoes and greasepaint of the Sleeping Beauty ballet that is so much a part of her, but her performance for Rosamund might just be her most successful yet,

 This, Briar feels, is a show for a mother and daughter. A dance that could turn deadly...

One of Lucy Popescu's Books to Look Forward to in 2024 in Camden New Journal

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My Review:-There is a bit of everything it this book, obsession, jealousy, heatache and of course a few twists. We have two timelines, as well as two points of view. A widowed, Rosemary Caradon is bring the last few children home to London after WW2, she had the children staying in her Devonshire manor with Jasmine her daughter and herself. But Rosemary was worried about Jasmine being lonely after having other children around for so long. On the train back home, they meet Briar, a ballet dancer, her daughter seemed to like her but Rosemary wasn't sure. After agreeing that Jasmine could visit Briar at Sadler's Wells, there was still something worrying Rosemary. Briar has a story of her own, but why is Briar so interested in Jasmine. You can't help but love the characters, even the ones you didn't want to. I found it a easy and enjoyable read.

 

The Liberation of Bella McCaa

The Liberation of Bella McCaa

By Catherine Aitken

Genre:-Romance/Contemporary

Pages:-297

Publisher:-Handbag Press

Blurb:-Bella wants her life back but life keeps getting in the way.

Here’s what some early readers have said:

‘It was funny, tragic and uplifting all at once, I couldn’t put it down.’

‘Realistic and romantic with great humour.’

‘I burst into tears at the end, I was so moved.’

When Bella McCaa is released from ten years as sole carer to a very demanding mother, she’s desperate to leave Dundee and pick up the threads of her once high-flying career in London. Fifty-two isn’t too late to start again, is it?

But fate, and family, intervene, and rather than speeding South in her trusty Mini, Bella’s plans go awry and she finds herself living far from friends, facing an empty bank account and urgently in need of a job. London and reclaiming her life seem more distant than ever. To complicate matters further her first love, Jem, strides into town – handsome, successful and stirring up a tempest of emotions. But Jem’s arrival is also the catalyst to unearthing long-buried secrets, shattering

Bella’s view of the world and making her question everything. Can Bella negotiate a whirlwind ride of unexpected curveballs, love and second chances to find a happy every after on her own terms?

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My Review:-Bella gives up everything she had made for herself, a job, a home and friends in London. Even though Bella has a brother, Roddy, it's still up to her to care for her mother on her own. After her mother died, Bella could get back om with her own life, but was it going to be as easy as she thought? After all Bella was now older, but was fifty-two really that old...she didn't think so. Then in walks Jem. That's when Bella's life and emotions is turned upside down. Will Bella find love again with Jem? No spoilers, you'll need to read the book to find out what Bella decides to do.

Blackwolf

Blackwolf

By Phil Gilvin

Genre:-Sci-Fi, YA Post-apocalyptic

Pages:-340

Blurb:-DISEASE STALKS THE LAND LIKE A WOLF, BUT THE FIGHTING GOES ON. AND IF YOU'RE CAUGHT UP IN IT, WHO CAN YOU TRUST?

2150, the Women's Republic of Anglia. The world, transformed by climate change, dwindling resources and successive epidemics, is in danger of descending into chaos. Ex-truth Sister Clara Perdue, having escaped the great flood of London, has become separated from her friend Jack Pike and is now trying to reach Wight, where her mother Sophia is in prison. But once she makes it there, how can she avoid capture herself? And how can she help Sophia?

 Meanwhile, Jack has fallen in with Hurn, a warlike chieftain in the lawless lands between Anglia and Wessex. Can he find new friendships and forget Clara? And when the Wessex army attack, can he face his doubts and fight? And while Hurn seeks to steal a virus weapon, another plague is sweeping through Britain. Can Clara and Jack survive?

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My Review:-This is Book Two in the 'Truth Sister' series. i haven't read Book One and at times I wish I had, but don't let that that stop you reading this book. Clara is someone that once believed and followed the government, but the more she learnt and became herself her views began to change and she is a lot stronger than she thinks. With a virus in 2050, that is spreading across Britain, Clara knows she has to help get her mother out of prison and nothing is going to stop that. While Clara is dealing with her mother, Jack is with a group that want their land back and be free from the Republic. This is a well wrote book, that has a fast pace with a few unexpected things in store for the reader.

Charlie Chaloosy is Often Quite Choosy

Charlie Chaloosy is Often Quite Choosy

By Brad Mason. Ed.D

Genre:-Children's Picture Book (Ages3-7)

Pages:-32

Publisher:-Yorkshire Publishing

Content Rating:-G. Suitable for everyone

Blurb:-The Charlie Chaloosy book series kicks off with its inaugural offering, Charlie Chaloosy is Often Quite Choosy.

The first book focuses on Charlie's experiences as he learns lessons, gains new experiences, and grows up in a world that happens to rhyme. The story is told through the use of a playful rhyme scheme and enhanced with beautifully colored illustrations of Charlie tackling new adventures in whimsical detail. The book ends with Charlie providing two pages for the reader to become an author by writing their own story.

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My Review:-My granddaughter and I decided to read this together. Emily enjoyed read this book to me, so I decided to ask what she thought of the book and this is what she said...it was easy to read and had loads that you can talk about. You can make your own story up just by looking at the pictures which is good for younger children, The book is bright and colourful. I lot of children don't like trying new things but this book could help them, I didn't think I liked could roller skate but I can, it was because I was scared of trying something different. 

What We Thought We Knew

What We Thought We Knew

By Claire Dyer

Genre:-Contemporary/Literary

Pages:-280

Blurb:-Four children, three marriages, two secrets, and one unfathomable tragedy: the families at numbers two, four and six Penwood Heights are connected by work, friendship, the loss of a child and a secret truth which has sat in the bedrock of their lives for years.

 In the centre of this tight-knit group is Faith, who believes her job is to act as a paperweight, keeping them all safe. And she does this until someone from her past reappears and threatens to sabotage everything.

And, as the pieces fall, these families, these friends, realise that what they thought they knew about one another was nothing more than make-believe. They also discover that trust is illusory and for Faith, at least, that keeping other people’s secrets can be more dangerous than keeping her own.

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Enlightened Queen, He's Not Your Man

Enlightened Queen, He's Not Your Man

By Galeema Davids

Genre:-Non-Fiction

Pages:-189

Blurb:-“Enlightened Queen, He's Not Your Man" is a transformative guide to navigating modern relationships with wisdom, self-assurance, and grace. In this empowering book, readers are invited to step into their role as enlightened queens – strong, confident individuals who recognize their own worth and stand firm in their authenticity.

Through insightful anecdotes, practical advice, and thought-provoking exercises, this book delves into the intricacies of contemporary dating and relationships. It provides a fresh perspective on how to decipher the often-confusing signals from potential partners and avoid common pitfalls that may compromise one's self-esteem and emotional well-being.

With a focus on self-discovery and personal growth, "Enlightened Queen, He's Not Your Man" helps readers develop a deeper understanding of their desires, boundaries, and aspirations. It empowers them to recognize when a potential partner might not align with their values or goals and guides them through the process of making empowered decisions for their own happiness.

The book also encourages readers to embrace their inner wisdom, fostering a strong sense of self-love and self-respect. By highlighting the importance of fostering healthy relationships – both with others and with oneself – it offers a roadmap for finding genuine connections that honour individuality and mutual growth.

Whether you're navigating the world of dating, seeking to enhance an existing relationship, or simply aiming to strengthen your self-assurance, "Enlightened Queen, He's Not Your Man" is a compelling read that empowers readers to embrace their inner royalty and approach relationships with renewed insight and confidence.

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Strong Female Character

Strong Female Character

By Fern Brady

Genre:-Biography/Autism

Pages:-288

Publisher:-Brazen/Octopus Books

Blurb:-WINNER, NON FICTION BOOK 2023, BOOKS ARE MY BAG AWARDS SHORTLIST, NERO BOOK AWARDS SHORTLIST, BOOKSHOP.ORG INDIE CHAMPIONS SHORTLIST, AMAZON NON-FICTION BOOK OF THE YEAR SHORTLIST, GOODREADS CHOICE BOOK OF THE YEAR.

Audible Books of the Year 2023

The Times Books of the Year 2023

Apple Best Audiobooks of 2023

BOOKSHOP.ORG Book of the Month January 2024

A summary of my book:

1. I'm diagnosed with autism 20 years after telling a doctor I had it.

2. My terrible Catholic childhood: I hate my parents etc.

3. My friendship with an elderly man who runs the corner shop and is definitely not trying to groom me. I get groomed.

4. Homelessness

5. Stripping.

6. More stripping but with more nervous breakdowns.

7. I hate everyone at uni and live with a psycho etc.

8. REDACTED as too spicy.

9. After everyone tells me I don't look autistic, I try to cure my autism and get addicted to Xanax

10. REDACTED as too embarrassing.

 In this book, Fern uses her voice as a neurodivergent, working class woman from Scotland to bring her experiences with sex work, abusive relationships and her time spent in a teenage mental health unit to the page.

 Written with unflinching honesty, Strong Female Character is a game-changing memoir on sexism and neurodiversity.

Thank you #AD #Gifted #FreeHonestReview @randonthingstours

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My Review:-Fern Brady is a Scottish Comedian and writer. Fern tells her story in her own words given us a look into the life she has had growing up with undiagnosed autism. Fern shares the good and the bad in this book. Growing up in a dysfunctional family life and not being diagnosed until 2021. Life hasn't been easy for Fern, she learned to hide things and  pretending she was ok just to fit in with others. Fern shares how self harming herself, prescription drugs and depression became part of her life. Even being sent to a mental health unit for teenagers, she was still misdiagnosed. Fern still has meltdowns, which did happen while writing this book. This book will have you crying and laughing in parts. This is a book I would recommend you should read, it will open your eyes to how the system misses and misdiagnoses people.

Be More Lucy

Be More Lucy: (Dashford Book 2)

By Suzanna Lissaman

Genre:-Romantic Comedy

Pages:-294

Blurb:-Best friends Em and Lucy are back in this heartwarming, second chance, rom com sequel to Be More Octopus.

 While Jack moves in with Em, Lucy is looking for a serious relationship, but finding a man who wants to commit is proving difficult. Then an unexpected meeting with an ex stirs up old emotions. Does he still feel the same about Lucy, and can they learn to trust one another again?

 Set in Birmingham, London and the fictional town of Dashford in North Devon, Be More Lucy is a feel-good story of love and friendship.

 Whether you're new to their world or a returning reader, this novel promises a fast-paced story filled with tears and laughter.

Thank you #AD #Gifted @randomthingstours

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My Review:-This is Book Two in 'The Dashford Comedies'. This book can be read as a standalone, but I would recommend that you read Book One 'Be More Octopus' as it will understanding each of the characters. Em is secretly planning with wedding to Jack, but she's not to sure if anything is going on since Clara is in Jack's new film. This is where Lucy come to Em's help, Lucy decides to see if there is anything going on with Jack and Clara. Lucy is still looking for love but she's in her 30s now and wondering will she ever find love and the man of her dreams. There are a few little twists on the way. I found this an easy and enjoyable read, which I finished in one sitting. If you like rom coms you'll really love this book,

The Climb

The Climb (Audio)

By Amra Pajalic

Narrator:-Nina Nikolic, Alec Shea

Length:-2 hours 13 minutes

Genre:-Romance/Contemporary/YA Fiction

Publisher:-Pishkin Press

Blurb:-Noah and Zephyra have been best friends since they started high school. Zephyra thinks of Noah as a brother. Noah thinks Zephyra is the one.

 Zephyra's only interest in romance is between the covers of her favourite romance novels. Noah believes now that they're sixteen it's just a matter of time until their friendship becomes a relationship.

 When they are completing a one week bike marathon their friendship hits some unexpected speed bumps. Will their friendship turn into something more or will they crash?

 The Climb, a young adult contemporary romance.

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My Review:-Noah has eye for one person, Zephyra wants to wait until she's older and would love it to be like the romance she reads in her books. The friendship Noah and Zephyra share is lovely, even when they can't to family or there is problems at home, they have here other. Noah is willing to wait for Zephyra, even when they join the bike club and he starts to work out a bit and she notices that he is looking different. Noah even stands up to the person that has picked on him so much. Will Zephyra ever see Noah as the person that loves her or are they always going to be just friends? I'm not telling you, you can either read the book or do as I did and listened to it. the book focusses on friendship and the feelings that they start to explore. I found it easy to listen to and it flowed well. With it only being just over 2 hours, it keeps you engaged.

Over The Garden Fence

Over The Garden Fence

By Karen Louise Hollis

Genre:-Women's Romance/Women's Contemporary

Pages:-334

Blurb:-What can two elderly women do, when they want to live their best lives, but don't know where to start?

 Next-door neighbours, Molly and Janice, are in their seventies and are both widowed and lonely. In lockdown, they had their garden fence removed so they could have socially-distanced chats outside. Now the pandemic is over, but the conversation continues. In fact, it has become a daily ritual-weather permitting.

As their friendship develops, talk turns from news headlines, the Sewing Bee and the Royal Family to their own long-lost hopes and dreams. Is it ever too late to contact a former boyfriend? Or to heal family rifts? Or to try new things? Of course not! Because growing older doesn't mean giving up.

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My Review:-Janice and Molly are elderly characters, which I love see in books. They has a lovely friendship, always there for each other. When we were all told to stay at home and social distance, some people found this hard but Janice and Molly found a way to keep their friendship strong. the fence between gardens was taken down and they could put the world to rights with cups of tea and still stay safe. I don't want to say to much as this is a lovely stories to read yourself, it will have you laughing. 

 Karen made this book so easy to read. The way Karen has wrote it makes you feel that you're sitting in the garden with Janice and Molly. Even having conversations about Strictly, The Chase, name but a few. 

I will be recommending this book to friends 

Artificial Wisdom-Read Along

Artificial Wisdom-Read along Starts today

Artificial Wisdom

By Thomas R. Weaver

Genre:-Crime/Thriller/Mystery

Pages:-386

Publisher:-Chainmaker Press

Blurb:-SALVATION HAS A PRICE.

 A enthralling murder mystery with a vividly realised future world, forcing readers to grapple hard hitting questions about the climate crisis, our relationship with Artificial Intelligence and the price we would be willing to pay, as a species, to be saved. Perfect for fans of Blake Crouch, Neal Stephenson, Philip K Dick, Kim Stanley Robinson and RR Haywood. It's 2050, a decade after a heatwave that killed four hundred million across the Persian Gulf, including journalist Marcus Tully's wife. Now he must uncover the truth: was the disaster natural? Or is the weather now a weapon of genocide? A whistleblower pulls Tully into a murder investigation at the centre of an election battle for a global dictator, with a mandate to prevent a climate apocalypse. A former US President campaign's against the first Al politician of the position, but someone is trying to sway the outcome. Tully must convince the world to face the truth and make hard choices about the future of the species. But will humanity ultimately choose salvation over freedom, whatever the cost?

Thank you #AD #Gifted #FreeHonestReview @lovebookstours

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Where the f**k is Blonduos

Where the f**k is Blonduos

By Emma Strandberg

Genre:-Non Fiction/Travel Writing

Pages:-216

Blurb:-"Where the f**k is Blonduos? is both a triumph of travel writing and a masterpiece of memoir. It deserves a space on every bookcase and in every suitcase" Richard Moriarty-The Sun

 Having survived a terrifying burglary, Emma had reached a point in life where she feared being awake and dreaded falling asleep. She grabbed her late mother's notebooks, packed her car with warm clothes, a swimsuit that had seen better days, a set of winter tyres and a brand new tent, and caught a ferry to Iceland.

 Surtsey was an unexpected eruption-just as my own birth was unplanned and something of an interruption. So captivated by the magic of Iceland, our mother returned home with a bar of Toblerone for each of us. There were no hugs or questions as to our welfare. My sisters and I had been alone for three weeks. I was almost 5 years old.

 Inspired by a six-month journey to Iceland in wintertime, "Where the f**k is Blonduos?" is moving, honest, and entertaining. Why would a middle-aged woman choose to spend a winter alone in the far north of Iceland? It's a fair question, though the answer isn't quite so straightforward.

 I dreamed of lying on a blanket gazing up into the night sky, holding my breath in anticipation of the colourful aurora that may soon dance overhead, without being asked, "Will you be long?"

 Battling the elements, conquering her fears, and learning to knit, all under the watchful gaze of the small community, Emma made sense of the past, found peace with the present, and felt strong enough to deal with the future.

 'Authentic, gripping, and as vivid as a cold winter's night, this inspirational Icelandic adventure will take you on an unforgettable journey of discovery and healing" Chris Riches-Daily Express

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My Review:-Emma Strandberg has had enough, no more sleepless nights and fear that someone is going to get into her house. Emma make up her mind what she was going to do, well in a way she knows. Emma packs her car with what she needs, firstly her late mother's notebooks, warm clothes, winter tyres and of course a bran new tent. Heading to a remote part of Northern Iceland, just as her mother had done fifty years before. This is not like any other travel book, Emma shows that there is more to do than the everyday places to eat or visit. I love that Emma took the time to learn to knit, buying every size needles and almost the same as wool, not something you would expect on holiday, (I would love this part as knitting/crocheting is one of my hobbies). I did like the PPS: ESSENTIAL ITEMS AND PPPS: RULES OF THE ROAD at the back of the book. My son and his wife went to Iceland a few years ago, so I've gave him this book as they are going back over to Iceland. I really enjoyed this book as it's not like any other and I felt like I went on the journey with Emma.

Meet Me In The Dark

It's Here

Meet Me In The Dark is LIVE!!!

The final book in the Bad Heroes trilogy is now available on Amazon! 

Get your copy today!

Meet Me In The Dark (Bad Heroes #3)

By Jo Brenner

Genre:-Why Choose/Dark Navy Seals Romance

Blurb:-

❤Why Choose

❤Bad ASS FMC

❤Touch Her/Him and Di3

❤Blud Play

❤Forc3d Proximity

❤Second Chance

❤Sword Crossing

❤CNC

❤Guaranteed HEA

Obsession tied them together. She won't let anything tear them apart.

For Micah, Luke, and Conor, there are no limits to why they'll do to win Kara's heart. Lie, cheat, steal...and kill. But just when it seems like they've succeeded, an old enemy strikes. The ex-Navy SEALs will do anything to keep Kara safe-including surrendering to the predator intent on destroying them. But Kara refuses to lose them. After years of them protecting her, it's time to return the favor. And if it involves payback against their enemy, well, she's not the woman she used to be. Running was easy when she had nothing to lose. But now? Forged into someone stronger, she's no longer afraid of her own power. Kara's determined to fight-for her men, for their family, and for herself.

 Even if it means the fight of her life.

Meet Me In The Dark is the third and final book in the Bad Heroes series and ends with an HEA. The heroine never has to choose her and each between the heroes for her HEA, and the heroes choose her and each other. Please check the author's website, jobrenner dot com, for content notes. 

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One Year After You

One Year After You

By Shari Low

Genre:-Women's Contemporary Fiction/Women's Romance Fiction

Pages:-319

Publisher:-Boldwood Books

Blurb:-Brand NEW for 2024 from the fabulous Shari Low. After the #1 bestseller One Day with You, comes One Year After You. Twenty-four hours. Four shocking secrets. One tumultuous tale of love, loss and second chances.

 One year ago today, Tress Walker's husband was killed in a car accident, on a trip with his secret mistress whilst Tress gave birth to their son. But as time moves on, Tress has to choose whether to protect her fragile heart or open it to love again.

 Noah Clark was equally devastated to discover his wife and his best friend were having an affair. Now the love of his life is asking for a second chance. But can there ever be a way back once the trust is broken?

 For forty years, the fabulous Odette Devine has been a beloved actress on a Scottish TV show. Today she is broken, betrayed, and desperate to find out if this is her payback for a lie she told four decades ago. Noah's sister Keli Clark has recently been ghosted by the man she loves. When a message from a complete stranger reveals the reason why, Keli will have to decide whether to forgive, forget, or make sure he pays.

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My Review:-The story is set over one day. A year since the life of all the characters changed. We meet Odette Devine, once an actress that worked on Scottish television for many years. Tess Walker who's husband, Max died in a car accident while on the way to see his secret mistress, and Tess was in hospital given birth to their baby son, Buddy. Noah Clark who's wife was having an affair with Noah's best friend. And Keli Clark, sister to Noah, has been ghosted by the man she loves. Life isn't as simple as you might think. There is a secret that they all hold, but what can it be? There is also a twist that you won't expect. I don't do spoilers, but I will say this is a must read. This book will have you crying and laughing as you turn the pages. Shari has made this story as if it was a day in real life and we all will connect with one if not more of than one characters. 

Blackwolf

Blackwolf

By Phil Gilvin

Genre:-Sci-Fi, YA Post-apocalyptic

Pages:-340

Blurb:-DISEASE STALKS THE LAND LIKE A WOLF, BUT THE FIGHTING GOES ON. AND IF YOU'RE CAUGHT UP IN IT, WHO CAN YOU TRUST?

2150, the Women's Republic of Anglia. The world, transformed by climate change, dwindling resources and successive epidemics, is in danger of descending into chaos. Ex-truth Sister Clara Perdue, having escaped the great flood of London, has become separated from her friend Jack Pike and is now trying to reach Wight, where her mother Sophia is in prison. But once she makes it there, how can she avoid capture herself? And how can she help Sophia?

 Meanwhile, Jack has fallen in with Hurn, a warlike chieftain in the lawless lands between Anglia and Wessex. Can he find new friendships and forget Clara? And when the Wessex army attack, can he face his doubts and fight? And while Hurn seeks to steal a virus weapon, another plague is sweeping through Britain. Can Clara and Jack survive?

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A Drop of Venom

A Drop of Venom

By Sajni Patel

Genre:-YA

Pages:-416

Publisher:-PRH International

Blurb:-Circe goes YA in this unapologetically feminist retelling of the Medusa myth steeped in Indian mythology-a YA epic fantasy addition to the Rick Riordan Presents imprint.

 All monsters and heroes have beginnings. This is mine.

 Sixteen-year-old Manisha is no stranger to monsters-she's been running from them for years, from beasts who roam the jungle to the King's army, who forced her people, the naga, to scatter to the ends of the earth. You might think that the kingdom's famed holy temples atop the floating mountains, where Manisha is now a priestess, would be safe-but you would be wrong. Seventeen-year-old Pratyush is a farmed slayer of monsters, one of the King's most prized warriors and a frequent visitor to the floating temples. For every monster the slayer kills, years are added to his life. You might think such a powerful warrior could do whatever he wants, but true power lies with the King. Tired after years of fighting, Pratyush wants nothing more than a peaceful, respectable life. When Pratyush and Manisha meet, each sees in the other the possibility to chart a new path. Unfortunately, the kingdom's powerful have other plans. A temple visitor sexually assaults Manisha and pushes her off the mountain into a pit of vipers. A month later, the King sends Pratyush off to kill one last monster (a powerful nagin who has been turning men to stone) before he'll consider granting the slayer his freedom.

 Except Manisha doesn't die, despite the hundreds of snake bites covering her body and the venom running through her veins. She rises from the pit more powerful than ever before, with heightened senses, armor-like skin, and blood that can turn people to stone. And Pratyush doesn't know it, but the "monster" he's been sent to kill is none other than the girl he wants to marry.

Alternating between Manisha's and Pratyush's perspectives, Sajni Patel weaves together lush language, high stakes, and page-turning suspense, demanding an answer to the question "What does it truly mean to be a monster?"

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My Review:-I know the story of Medusa, but this is so much more. We have Greek mythology mixed with Indian mythology (folklore). Pratyush is seventeen-year-old and the last of his kind, but also one of the best monster slayers that works for the King. Manisha is a sixteen-year-old temple priestess, and can turn men to stone. Manisha sees Pratyush when he visits the temple, but she doesn't know he only goes to see and talk to her. Manisha is sexually assaulted in a violent way, and kicked into a hole of venomous vipers, but with the help from magic and golden serpent companion Noni, Manisha survives. Pratyush is sent by the king to fight the Serpent Queen and bring him the head back. But nothing is going to be that simple. This story is filled with so much that had me reading it in two sitting as I wanted to know the end, and I wasn't disappointed. I will say that you need to read the notes from Sajni at the beginning just so you know what triggers are in this book. The cover had me, even before I read the blurb.