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I am a huge fan of memoirs, and particularly enjoy reading about people who have had really interesting lives! Marise Gaughan’s book is an excellent example of this. I love the title, which hints at the fact that the writer may have been in, or caused, a lot of trouble. The image also suggests the focus will be on the writer’s innermost thoughts and possibly their mental health.

Blurb:

Marise was nine when she first realised there was trouble, 14 when her Dad tried to end it all, and 23 when he finally succeeded.

In a turmoil of conflicting emotions Marise runs – from Dublin to Amsterdam to Los Angeles, leaving a trail of sex and self-destruction in her wake. Until finally, she finds herself facing what she’s become in a California psych ward, a girl imploding through trying to make sense of her father’s suicide.

As she retells her unravelling, from child to adult, Marise strips back her identity and her relationship with her father, layer by layer, until she finally starts to understand how to live with him, years after he has gone.

Written beautifully, with wit and unflinching honesty, Marise has produced one of the most powerful coming-of-age memoirs of recent years, a brave new voice in Irish writing.

My thoughts:

This was definitely a thought-provoking, powerful and gripping memoir. The first third of the book in particular I found engaging and nostalgic. Although I often think of Irish culture as different to what I experienced here in Wales, I was able to connect with some of her early teen references and experiences quite easily. I could easily relate to the teen who wanted to do well but let disruption at home spill into her attitude and school life.

Maurise explores familial relationships, identity and growth, mental health, alcoholism and suicide in a personal and emotional way. You really get to see how these impact her life and her mindset.

This was an insightful read where I feel like I have become intimate friends with the writer. Although I felt anger and sadness towards her dad, I think his role in her life was hugely influential and therefore I was engrossed in finding out what happened to him, as his journey was very tumultuous.

Overall, an emotional and page-turning memoir. This is an excellent read for fans of this genre as it is well-written and thought-provoking.

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I was involved in the cover reveal and promo for the first book in this series. At that time, Julie Shackman was a new to me author and I was unsure what to expect.  I really enjoyed the book, and found it to be heart-warming and dramatic. Therefore, I knew I wanted to be involved in the blog tour for this one, with a chance to read an early copy.

Blurb:

When wedding planner Sophie Harkness refuses to move a friend’s wedding to accommodate a spoilt bridezilla, she finds herself out of a job. That is until she discovers her late grandma has purchased a local shop for her in the pretty Scottish town of Briar Glen.

Surprised and delighted, Sophie opens her own porcelain shop in honour of her grandmother. But when an unusual tea set is left with Sophie, along with a mysterious letter, she can’t help but be intrigued by the story behind the antique.

And when the handsome but aloof art critic Xander North comes knocking on her door, Sophie is about to find out the true colourful past of her latest treasure.

My thoughts:

This is a slow burn read, with a good mix of romance, drama and mystery. Much of the story centres around the mystery of the tea set, but for me I was more drawn into the characters and specifically the mysterious and interesting character of Xander.

This is very much a character driven story, which I like. Back stories are well developed and layers of personality are revealed. I liked the way Sophie was able to show strength and bravery, but also vulnerab

There is a lot more to this story than just the romance which is quite refreshing in this genre, and Julie also deals with themes such as family, work, past history, identity and growth.

An enjoyable, comforting and easy read. I have once again enjoyed visiting the quaint and escapist Scottish Highland setting with Julie, and would recommend this book and author to fans of Lucy Coleman, Samantha Tonge and Donna Ashcroft.

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I was introduced to this author by my bookish bestie and I have to agree that her books are on another level in terms of complexity, intrigue and page-turning ability. I am eagerly anticipating each new release, whilst also trying to build a physical collection of her back catalogue.

Blurb:

You think you’re safe.
You think you know your neighbours.
But can you ever really know who’s telling the truth?
 
Jeannie Symonds is a force to be reckoned with – an eccentric, award-winning publisher, spending lockdown with her husband in a house near Kesterly-on-Sea. She seems to have it all: a high-flying career, a happy marriage, a niece she adores.
 
And then one day, she vanishes.
 
Cara Jakes is a new trainee investigator – young, intelligent and eager to prove herself. When she teams up with detective Andee Lawrence to look into the disappearance, she is determined to find out what has really happened to Jeannie. Cara begins to question the residents of this close-knit community, sure that someone has a secret to hide.
 
But how can she separate the truth from the lies?

My thoughts:

The cover of this book is beautiful and definitely pulls you in. The truth is, the cover of this book could be completely blank and I’d still want to read it because it’s a Susan Lewis book, but I do think the cover is brilliant at building intrigue and mystery.

I was also of course, hooked by the opening of the book. Susan Lewis is known for her killer openings and this one is no different. You begin by learning about Jeannie’s choice to leave. You don’t know, of course, why or what happens following this, and Susan then changes perspective. So it is definitely a gripping opening that pulls you in.

As the story progresses, you hear from a number of different characters, some of which have clear, close connections to Jeannie. Susan intertwines all their stories and constantly links the narrative back to Jeannie’s disappearance. As a reader, you become engrossed in the mystery. Susan explores psychology, identity, relationships, trust, betrayal and honesty.

I was sceptical at first about placing the story in ‘Covid’ times, but Susan handles this well and shows clear understanding of how this hampers/delays the investigation and puts a strain on services. In some ways, this made the story more engrossing and realistic.

Overall, this is a twisty and exciting story, that although longer than my usual read, was easy to follow due to the effective structure and the need to find out the conclusion. I would recommend this book, and any and all of Susan Lewis’ books to fans of family drama, crime thriller and/or police procedural as this book carries elements of all of these, as many of her books do!

I have fallen in love with Nicola May’s books through devouring this stunning series. This latest installment was just as gorgeous as the previous two. I completely agree with the sentiment that Nicola May writes “chick lit with a kick” as at times it is emotional and heart-wrenching, but overall it is warm and comforting.

Blurb:

Book Three in bestselling sensation Nicola May’s gorgeous new series – catch up with Book One, WELCOME TO FERRY LANE MARKET, and Book Two, STARRY SKIES IN FERRY LANE MARKET, now!

39-year-old Glanna Pascoe – also known as ‘the Rainbow Painter’ – runs the Hartmouth Gallery in Ferry Lane Market in Cornwall. She is just getting her head and broken heart around being single, childless, and sober when Cupid flies in, shooting arrows all over the place.

Meeting the mysterious and fascinating Isaac Benson, famous local artist, and recluse, allows Glanna’s disillusioned heart and attitude to soften, and she begins to learn more about herself than she ever thought possible. Confused by her growing feelings for Isaac, Glanna throws herself into organising a life-drawing class at her gallery, using both male and female nudes – and setting local tongues wagging.

A theft from her gallery and the return of ex-love Oliver Trueman cause Glanna to wonder if a pot of gold will be appearing at the end of her rainbow. And will it bring her the happiness, she has sought for so long?

My thoughts:

I devoured this book in a couple of sittings as I just found myself once again completely lost in this beautiful setting, drawn in by the characters and pulled into the storyline, with the brave and wonderful character of Glanna at the forefront.

I completely admire Glanna’s passion and dedication to her gallery and her art. I was completely intrigued by the scenes where Nicola May describes Glanna’s inspiration and artistic techniques, as these are very much alien to me. This made her a more admirable character in my eyes, as well as of course her dramatic back story and her capability with dealing with two parents who can be very difficult!

The romance storyline is a slow burn and also unpredictable. You may find yourself taking sides or making predictions about whether she will break down the metaphorical walls built by Isaac, or settle her differences with Oliver. Whichever you punt for, you will definitely find the outcome and ending satisfying and heart-warming.

An easy, beautiful read with an unexpected but utterly brilliant heroine, I would recommend this book to fans of Heidi Swain, Cressida McLaughlin and Rachel Dove.

“You are my happy ending… and my rainbow ends with you.” ♥️

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I have read a few of Rowney’s books in the past, and I find her style easy and engaging. She writes in a range of genres, but I think her psychological thrillers may be the best of the lot.

Blurb:

THE SILENT PATIENT MEETS GONE GIRL

“Let me ask you. Are you worried that someone is watching you, or are you worried that you think someone is watching you?”

Sophie Portman has lost her husband, and she thinks she may be losing her mind.

She seeks the help of psychiatrist Andrew Thacker, but as she starts to open up, the truth begins to unravel and nothing is quite as it seems.

Other People’s Lives is a gripping psychological thriller from bestselling author JE Rowney.

My thoughts:

Wow. What a corker! I devoured this one quickly as I was immediately engrossed from the opening and had to know what happened to Jack. I got the sense Sophie wasn’t a trust worthy character, but due to the clever structure of the book, it took me a while to pinpoint why.

The structure of the book is very clever and original because the majority of the story is told through Sophie’s letters to Jack, and her sessions with her therapists. You get the sense that in both situations, she is holding back from revealing the full truth as to why she is suffering from this anxious or psychotic mind that she describes.

I also noted how, as the tension ramps up and the story progresses, the letters Sophie writes to Jack become shorter and more fraught. This definitely helps the story to pick up pace and keeps you hooked.

The characters are well-developed and intriguing, though definitely difficult to trust and also quite creepy. The ending will definitely shock and stun you, but it will leave you feeling satisfied too.

A fabulously thrilling story, perfect for fans of Arianne Richmonde, Mel Sherratt and Shalini Boland.

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A

I was drawn to this book because I’m a big fan of historical fiction. My experience of the genre though is quite limited, so I’m always keen to explore new authors and historical fiction set in different locations.

Blurb:

Bologna, Italy, 1929. A newborn baby boy is abandoned by his desperate unmarried mother, who believes he is dead and that she is to blame.

Heartbroken, she leaves her child, accepting that her actions will haunt her for the rest of her days. But unbeknown to her, the kindness of a stranger means the starving baby survives. And so begins the extraordinary life of Rinaldo Scamorza…

Following several years in an orphanage, where Rinaldo still holds onto the hope that his mother will come to claim him, he is entrusted to a heartless foster-mother who treats her charges as nothing more than financial opportunities. Yet amidst the cruelty and violence of this loveless environment Rinaldo meets fellow orphan, Evelina, and the two children create a bond which they believe will never be broken.

Rinaldo holds tight to the few people who show him love, and he becomes a loyal, intelligent and kind boy. But his life is shattered when aged barely 13, Evelina is sold into prostitution by their foster-mother.

As he grows up and becomes more resourceful, Rinaldo finds work as an errand boy in a brothel, where he encounters Evelina once again. But in his efforts to help her escape her life of exploitation, another dark misfortune pulls them apart and she disappears.

When at last Italy begins to emerge from the shadows of World War II and Bologna’s economy recovers, Rinaldo uses his intimate knowledge of the city to change his life for the better. But through everything, the successes and the moments of loneliness and misery, the women he yearns to see again – Evelina and his mother – are always on his mind…

Fans of Angela Petch, Helen Fripp, Dinah Jeffries, Rhys Bowen and Louise Douglas will adore this captivating historical novel.

My thoughts:

You can’t help being drawn into this story from the beginning. The opening is dramatic and heart-breaking as a mother believes the child she kept safe by keeping him a secret, has died shortly after birth. When you quickly discover he is hanging on by a thread, you can’t help but be engrossed in his story.

This author writes historical fiction in a way I like to read it. The characters, their social & emotional turmoil are at the forefront and the historical context, though intertwined and evident, doesn’t take precedence over the individual characters and their journies.

I found the whole story, especially the bond between Evelina and Rinaldo, very believable and that made it all the more upsetting and at the same time, gripping and addictive.

I would describe the ending as an “ending with a twist”, which I completely wasn’t expecting but it fitted the tone and trajectory of the story perfectly.

I have loved this story and would name it as one of my favourite historical fiction reads of the year so far. I would recommend this author to fans of Elodie Harper, Kathleen McGurl and Meghan Masterson.

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To be honest, my reasons for picking up this book are a little juvenile. I was drawn in by the bright colours on the cover and the cheese puns. However, the blurb suggested that the book has more substance than a cheese salad 🤣 so I was looking forward to reading…

Blurb:

When it comes to love, its feta late than never . . .

Freya Butterly has always dreamed of being a Head Chef but despite running every service at the Mediterranean restaurant, she still doesn’t get the recognition she deserves. Craving adventure and a real taste of the Mediterranean, Freya takes matters into her own hands, ditching both her job and unsupportive boyfriend, she packs her bags for sunny Cyprus in pursuit of the prestigious Golden Spoon culinary award.

As one of the seven competitors, Freya is determined to clinch the trophy and rediscover her passion for food, but what she doesn’t expect to discover is Xanthos. As gorgeous as he is charming – he’s quite the dish. Freya is instantly attracted to him, but this trip was about Cypriot cuisine, not cypriot sausage (ahem, romance) and she knows she must not let Xanthos distract her from the competition.

But if she walks away, will Freya spend the rest of her life wondering What If?

My thoughts:

I immediately drew similarities with Judy Leigh, which was great as I love Judy’s books and especially the way she focuses on older characters.

The fact that these characters travel to Cyprus, gives the book an escapist feel. It really felt like an armchair escape. Cyprus is not one of the places I’ve been, but it is definitely on the list of places to visit now, and the focus on Cypriot food had my mouth watering at many points!

Freya is a great main character and you really feel for her, the problems she overcome and the determination she shows by entering and trying to win the cookery competition.

You can also completely understood how she is distracted by gorgeous and charming Xanthos.

This is a charming and comforting book, with the drama of the romance and the cookery competition really turning up the heat and making for some twisty points and addictive reading!

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I absolutely adore Jessica Redland’s books, and she is definitely my favourite author in this genre. I love all her books, but I have a special place in my heart for the Hedgehog Hollow series and I was nervous as to whether this series, especially this book as the 2nd in the series, could live up to that!

Blurb:

Welcome back to the Starfish Café – where you will find stunning views, delicious food and lifelong friendships.

A new season…

As winter turns to spring, Hollie – owner of The Starfish Café – is feeling content as she settles into her new life with her loving boyfriend, Jake, and their adorable dog Pickle.

But when an unwelcome visitor threatens the future of her café, Hollie must stay strong to protect her family’s legacy…

A leap of faith…

Emerging from an unhappy relationship, Tori finds herself with nowhere to stay and nobody to talk to. The long-hidden secrets of her past weigh heavily on her until a chance encounter with Finley, struggling to come to terms with his own secrets, provides an opportunity to open up.

Can she find the strength to stop hiding from her past and face up to her family? Especially when that would mean letting her guard down and learning to trust again…

A fresh start…?

Little do Hollie and Tori know that their lives are about to collide at The Starfish Café and they may be able to help each other with a fresh start. After all, with good friends in your life, nothing is impossible…

My thoughts:

I have definitely fallen for this series! I loved the dual storylines in this one, of Tori and Hollie. Jessica does an amazing job of being able to create and develop both of these characters, so that we end up with two  likeable and sympathetic heroines who we are quickly able to identify with and invest in.

The storylines themselves are quite different, though there is a connection between the two ladies as they meet at Hollie’s Starfish Cafe & also when Tori needs help from the RNLI.

They have some overlapping themes which make this a heart-warming but also emotional read, for example coming to terms with your past, difficult family relations and taking risks to try and make past dreams for the future, more of a reality.

This makes for some dramatic scenes which really keep you hooked into the book and the storyline. For me, the “mystery” was an added bonus and not something that massively hooked me in. I could see how it worked to drive the narrative forward at times though and bring the characters’ insecurities and worries to the fore.

Overall, a great 2nd book in the series but also a worthy stand alone read. I am so looking forward to book 3! ♥️

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Having looked at the cover and blurb, I was immediately drawn to this one as it reminded me of other books by two of my favourite authors: Judy Leigh and Maddie Please. However, as this was a new to me author, I was sceptical as to whether this would actually stand up in comparison to the others.

Blurb:

A weekend at the spa will leave four old friends with a whole lot more than they’d bargained for…

The glossy brochure promised a serene experience of total tranquillity and rejuvenation, but what best friends Bridgette, Emily, Serena and Marjory get is a weekend that upends their lives!

There for a girls’ weekend to celebrate Bridgette’s impending seventieth birthday, the spa soon has these spicy sexagenarians realising that there are unexpected benefits to age and experience, and that over the hill certainly doesn’t mean out of the game…in any respect…

My thoughts:

I absolutely love meeting characters who have bold personalities and some life experience, and using older heroines usually ensures that this is the case. As well as working against the trope that heroines have to be youthful, beautiful and slim, it immediately gives the book an original and refreshing feel.

I absolutely loved this book. It was funny, it was raunchy, but also it was honest. I loved how the romance was intertwined with strong female friendships. Each of the characters jumped off the page, and had their own unique personalities. Caroline also describes with hilarious clarity some of the scrapes and awkward situations they get themselves into, sometimes involving bodily fluids!

This book is truly funny, with sometimes a gentle humour, and at other times a more raucous, laugh out loud humour that edges towards slapstick. Regulars to the blog will know that a dislike of mine is when an author/publisher brands a book as a ‘romantic comedy’, as if the two are inextricably linked. They are of course not, and it takes a good level of skill, as well as awareness of the audience to ensure that a book in this genre is truly funny as well as meaningful and heart-warming.

This book far exceeded my expectations and it’s fair to say I absolutely loved following these women on their spa day. I would definitely agree that this author is perfect for fans of Judy Leigh and Maddie Please. A fabulous read.

I am a big fan of Arianne Richmonde’s books. I find them original, gripping and fast paced. I had high hopes that this, her latest release, would be no different.

Blurb:

My family keep telling me I’m safe. But why don’t I believe them?

I stand at the very edge of the cliff face, looking at the roaring ocean below my feet. I’m in no danger, in fact my husband and his sister talk just feet away from me, watching my every move. They’re worried I’m losing my mind, and I sense their nerves as they watch me looking down on the jagged rocks below.

Behind them sits our summer house. Apparently it’s my favourite place in the world, not that I can remember. Since the car accident, I’ve struggled to recall a lot of important things in my life, like giving birth to my daughter, Violet, just days after the crash. Or my supposedly perfect marriage…

As I stare at the huge expanse of blue below, I have a flashback to the day of the crash—an argument, my husband’s face red with anger. Why is it so different to what everyone else is telling me about my life? Beads of sweat gather on my neck.

If my memory is true, my life and my children’s lives are in danger. What really happened the day of the accident? And is there anyone I can trust?

My thoughts:

Once again, Arianne has had me hooked. Some of the themes and ideas explored are quite dark, including infant loss, a missing child, possible sexual or domestic abuse, but they are all intertwined cleverly into an addictive storyline.

My favourite element was definitely the multiple perspectives as this left me utterly perplexed. I was drawn into all the characters but I really didn’t know who to trust, or if I really liked any of them.

I’ve said it before about these sorts of books and I’ll no doubt say it again, but this is a true psychological thriller in that the psychological element is strong. You are able to get into each of the character’s heads and understand their mental deterioration. You don’t know who exactly it is that is truly suffering from mental illness, but you get the sense that this could be a risk for all the characters based on what you learn about their personalities and background.

The ending was definitely twisty and unpredictable, and by this point I found myself completely unable to put the book down. I’d highly recommend this book and author to fans of Shari Lapena, Shalini Boland and Catherine Cooper.

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