Best of August 2021

It may be summer but August's book lineup sees the release of the first festive books. I'm also rounding up the best of the thrillers and non-festive chicklit that I'm excited about this month.

The Dark by Emma Haughton (19 Aug 2021)

In the most inhospitable environment - cut off from the rest of the world - there's a killer on the loose. A&E doctor Kate North has been knocked out of her orbit by a personal tragedy. So when she's offered the opportunity to be an emergency replacement at the UN research station in Antarctica, she jumps at the chance. The previous doctor, Jean-Luc, died in a tragic accident while out on the ice. But as total darkness descends for the winter, she begins to suspect that Jean-Luc's death wasn't accidental at all. And the more questions she asks, the more dangerous it becomes . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★★

It's no surprise that I loved this book as a thriller set in a snowy environment pretty much guarantees 5-stars from me (shout out to #Shiver and #OneByOne). I was fascinated by the insight into working and living on an Antartic research station - a world I know nothing about but could totally picture through the author's vivid and atmospheric descriptions. I felt the isolation, darkness, danger and tension as if I was there. With the base completely inaccessible for eight months of the year it was also the perfect setting for a true locked room thriller with no escape, no help and only twelve possible suspects. In the end the reveal was pretty meh but I loved the build up so much it didn't matter.

Christmas Wishes at the Chocolate Shop by Jessica Redland (3 Aug 2021)

When Charlee moves to the picturesque seaside town of Whitsborough Bay, she is determined to follow in her grandfather's footsteps and set up a chocolate shop in time for Christmas! With a useless boyfriend, countless DIY disasters, no 'traditional' family support  and weighed down by the past , Charlee doesn't know if she'll make it in time. But the Whitsborough Bay community surprise her, and when plumber, Matt, comes to the rescue, it might be that all of Charlee's dreams could come true this Christmas...

In my opinion: ★★★★★

I love the author's Hedgehog Hollow series and I loved this too. It's another feel good story about love in all its forms - romantic, friends and family - and running a small, independent business too (a plot ingredient I adore and that never fails to spark my own imagination). Jessica Redland writes with such charm and ease, and I love the unusually realistic timelines of her stories. Often in chicklit boy meets girl and they become one after mere weeks.....well that kind of did happen in this as when they finally got together they were engaged at once but the story was set over the course of a year and two very different Christmas'. Whilst this is a festive story it's not overly Christmassy. Apparently it's also one in a series (the Whitsborough Bay series) but like me if you're reading it as a standalone and in the summer it really won't matter; it will still be just as good!

The Family Across the Street by Nicole Trope (6 Aug 2021)

Everybody wants to live on Hogarth Street, the pretty, tree-lined avenue with its white houses. The new family, The Wests, are a perfect fit. Katherine and Josh seem so in love and their gorgeous five-year-old twins race screeching around their beautiful emerald-green lawn. But sometimes, the most perfect families are hiding the most terrible secrets and on the hottest day of the year, the truth is about to come out. As a tragedy unfolds behind closed doors, the dawn chorus is split by the wail of sirens.

In my opinion: ★★★★

With the drama unfolding over the course of a day this was fast-paced; and the writing style matched with frequent switches in points of view and short chapters. With the short timescale, limited number of characters and single setting the author created a claustrophobic intensity that was maintained from start to finish. In fact the writing was really clever with the author implying a certain thing with such strength that I never even questioned it until the end. She also somehow manages to seamlessly provide sufficient back stories and understanding of the things that led to the day's events all without leaving the present day story. Because of this many of the characters end up growing on and completely surprising you - particularly delivery driver Logan and neighbour Gladys both of whom I was weirdly rooting for more than Katherine and her children. And, for that reason I loved the decent-sized epilogue and seeing out how things turned out for these two characters. The only thing I didn't like was the link between Logan and Katherine which felt a bit too convenient and forced but a minor thing in a totally gripping, page-turner.

56 Days by Catherine Ryan Howard (19 Aug 2021)

56 DAYS AGO - Ciara and Oliver meet in a supermarket queue in Dublin and start dating the same week COVID-19 reaches Irish shores. When lockdown threatens to keep them apart, Oliver suggests they move in together. TODAY - Detectives arrive at Oliver's apartment to discover a decomposing body inside. Can they determine what really happened, or has lockdown created an opportunity for someone to commit the perfect crime?

In my opinion: ★★★★

Whilst some people have said they don't want to read about the pandemic, I was really intrigued by this and weirdly enjoyed reflecting back on those surreal early days. That said whilst it takes place during the first lockdown, it's more about the closed-room opportunity that lockdown creates - forcing two people who barely know each other to move into together with deadly consequences - than the pandemic itself. Both (main) characters were oddly likeable, despite clearly having dark pasts, making it hard to know who to root for. I enjoyed the tension, knowing the outcome up front and then trying work out what had led to that result but the multiple timeline (and POV) was a little confusing at times. I also loved the two detectives and the banter between them - although in the end their inclusion was kind of pointless as they didn't solve the crime and at times a bit too graphic with their description of the decomposing body for example.

Rock Paper Scissors by Alice Feeney (19 Aug 2021)

Ten years of marriage. Ten years of secrets. An anniversary they’ll never forget.

Adam and Amelia are spending the weekend in the Scottish Highlands. The remote location is perfect for what they have planned. But when their romantic trip takes a dark turn, they both start to wonder – can they trust the one they’re with?

In my opinion: ★★★★

I'm new to this author and so was expecting another police procedural plot like #HisAndHers but this was more domestic thriller with absolutely no police presence. However, in many ways it was still very similar as it too was written in my favourite 'his and hers' style with chapters alternating between husband and wife, Amelia and Adam. There were only a few characters but again none are without flaws and all are totally unreliable narrators bringing several different perspectives to events and meaning that by the end I still didn't know who or what to believe. Or as Adam says: "Not all actresses are on the stage. Some walk among us, masquerading as normal people." Overall another enjoyable and addictive, unpredictable, page-turner from this author.

Snowflakes Over the Starfish Cafe by Jessica Redland (31 Aug 2021)

Since she inherited The Starfish Café, Hollie has poured her heart into the business, but behind closed doors Hollie is searching for true happiness as she grieves the tragic loss of her family. Jake lives by two rules: don’t let anyone get close and don’t talk about what happened. Little does he know that a chance meeting at The Starfish Café, facilitated by a fluffy lost dog, is about to turn his world upside down. Can Hollie and Jake break down the barriers that have been holding them back from finding love and happiness, before Christmas comes around? 

In my opinion: ★★★★

I love Jessica Redland and I enjoyed this but it wasn't one of favourites. As is usual for the author this had all the key elements for a good contemporary romance - likeable characters, adorable dog, will-they-won't-they romance, community spirit, small business, family and friendship. And, it was written in her usual charming and light-hearted way. But, the difference with this was that with main characters Hollie and Jake both struggling with loss, grief and family tragedies there was a continuous undercurrent of sadness and heartbreak - I guess I prefer a more upbeat tale.

For Your Own Good by Samantha Downing (19 Aug 2021)

Teddy Crutcher won Teacher of the Year at Belmont Academy. Everyone thinks he's brilliant. They all smile when he tells us his wife couldn't be more proud. But no-one has seen her in a while. They're impressed when the tragic death of a school parent doesn't distract him. Even when rumours start to say it was murder. You're sure Teddy is hiding something about what happened that day. You're sure you can prove it. But you didn't stop to think that when it comes to catching a killer, there's no place more dangerous than just one step behind . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★

Samantha Downing is an author I've wanted to read for ages. This took a while to get into, possibly because there's many points of views, but once I did, I enjoyed it! It was an easy, satirical, fun read with a bunch of oddball characters who all truly believe their crazy actions are "for your own good"! The only thing I didn't like was that there was no real suspense as nothing was really kept from the reader.

The Wedding Party by Tammy Cohen (19 Aug 2021)

Lucy has dreamt of her wedding day for as long as she can remember. And now the day is almost here. Her nearest and dearest are gathered on an idyllic Greek island and she just knows it's going to be perfect. But even the best-laid plans can go horribly wrong. Why are her parents behaving so strangely? Why won't the rather odd lady from the airport stop hanging around? Who is the silent stranger her sister brought as a plus-1? And then they find the body. It's going to be a day to remember.

In my opinion: ★★★★

I was really looking forward to this especially as it had been praised by some of my favourite authors. However, sadly it just didn't really do it for me. I enjoyed the writing and style of the book; the mixing of narrators, with police interviews and diary entries really broke the plot up and the short and snappy chapters made for an easy read. But, despite being incredibly busy with so many characters, points of view and secrets it was also a bit of a slow burn with more a general background rumble of unease than anything concrete until late to the book. With so many characters and points of view it also meant you didn't really get to know or understand anyone sufficiently well to get that invested in their fate. I enjoyed the read during but once all was the revealed it was a bit underwhelming and some bits, like Cora's story, were quickly and unsatisfactorily pushed aside. 

A Midwinter Match by Jane Lovering (19 Aug 2021)

Ruby Oldbridge needs to learn to take her own advice. A brilliant counsellor at work in York, she is however floundering in her own life. Happy-go-lucky, Mr Positivity, Zac Drewe also loves his job – the trouble is, it’s the same as Ruby’s, and there’s only room for one of them. Set against one another, they are unlikely friends. But perhaps, if they could take the time to understand each other, they might discover that rather than rivals, they could be the best thing that ever happened to one another… 

In my opinion: ★★★

This started well and there were some really entertaining moments along the way such as Ruby having to squeeze herself into a work colleague's tight fitting outfit for an impromptu presentation. I also liked the spot-on and satirical observations about the workplace and corporate stereotypes such as team building which everyone complains about because it typically involves "getting cold or wet, being outside or....having to touch another person." But, sadly overall this was quite a slow and bland read with lengthy chapters, continuous reinforcement of the same things, and dull characters. I loved supporting character Priya but main characters, Ruby and Zac, were near carbon copies of each other, seeming older than they were purported to be and totally unremarkable other than their mental health concerns. This was a big problem because for a romance there was zero chemistry between them. Disappointing but not a total miss either.

No Such Thing As Perfect by Emma Hughes (5 Aug 2021)

No one's life is as perfect as it looks. Least of all Laura Morrison's. (Although she's not sure how perfect hanging onto your job by a thread and sleeping on an air mattress at your sister's looks, in all honesty.) When Laura gets the chance to trial Cupid - a high-tech new dating service which will draw on everything she's ever done online to find her perfect match - she figures it's got to be worth a try. She can't believe her luck when good-looking, kind considerate Adam turns up for their first date. On paper he's...well...perfect. But when Laura develops feelings for the person who led her to Adam in the first place, familiar doubt creeps in.

In my opinion: ★★★

This sounded fun - a witty romcom about online dating. And, it was fun but it is was more mildly amusing than laugh-out-loud funny. It was an easy read but the main premise (the dating) largely took a back seat to all the other things going such as parents separating, sibling tension, redundancies and changing friendships. These side stories did add to the story but less is more and some just felt a bit unnecessary and under-done. I loved the ending, however, which refreshingly for chicklit wasn't a happy-ever-after but a more realistic self discovery and hint of future happiness. Sadly the real reason I didn't love this as much as I'd hoped was main character Laura who I found quite annoying, particularly her incessant (and largely unjustified) moaning about her sister and ex-housemates.

Best of July 2021

With so many eclectic and diverse book releases, there's something 

for everyone this July. But, here's my best of....

#1 The Rising Tide by Sam Lloyd (8 Jul 2021)

Lucy has everything she could wish for: a beautiful home high on the clifftops, a devoted husband and two beloved children. Then one morning, time stops. Their family yacht is recovered, abandoned far out at sea. Lucy's husband is nowhere to be found and as the seconds tick by, she begins to wonder - what if he was the one who took the boat? And if so, where is he now? As a once-in-a-generation storm frustrates the rescue operation, Lucy pieces together what happened onboard. And then she makes a fresh discovery. One that plunges her into a nightmare more shocking than any she could ever have imagined . . .

In my opinion: ★★★★★

To be honest I didn't really understand the big reveal - well more the character's reasoning or motivation behind it - or the battle between good and evil. But, it really didn't matter as I was totally gripped for the telling. It was definitely one of those books where you keep reading late into the night thinking just one more chapter. There were so many twists and turns in this cleverly constructed and original plot that I was continually changing my mind on who or what to believe especially regarding main characters Lucy and Daniel - are they good or bad, do they love or hate each other, and are they reliable or unreliable narrators? The author also created a real sense of the coastal village and stormy weather both of which where used to compliment the plot perfectly. I will definitely be seeking out more by this author!

#2 All Her Fault by Andrea Mara (22 Jul 2021)

Marissa Irvine arrives at 14 Tudor Grove, expecting to pick up her young son Milo from his first playdate with a boy at his new school. But the woman who answers the door isn't a mother she recognises. She isn't the nanny. She doesn't have Milo. And so begins every parent's worst nightmare.

In my opinion: ★★★★

I enjoyed this but it wasn't quite what I was expecting. From the blurb, where Marissa arrives to pick up her son from a playdate but the woman who answers the door isn't anyone she recognises and she doesn't have Milo, I was expecting a psychological thriller with Marissa questioning her own sanity. But, it was more a domestic drama as it quickly became clear who'd taken Milo and it was just the why that unfolded. Don't get me wrong though the why was pretty powerful and intoxicating reading - it was twisty, turny, tense, fast-paced, shocking and I certainly didn't see that ending coming! It was a complex plot, with lots of characters and many parts that don't really add any thing to the story other than to mislead you, but it was very original, cleverly wrapped up and overall a good read.

#3 Such A Quiet Place by Megan Miranda (15 Jul 2021)

Welcome to Hollow's Edge - a picture-perfect neighbourhood where everyone has each other's backs. At least, that's how it used to be, until the night Brandon and Fiona Truett were found dead. Two years ago, branded a grifter, thief and sociopath by her friends and neighbours, Ruby Fletcher was convicted of murdering the Truetts. Now, freed by mistrial, Ruby has returned to Hollow's Edge. As Ruby's return sends shockwaves through the community, terrified residents turn on each other, and it soon becomes clear that not everyone was honest about the night the Truetts died....

In my opinion: ★★★★

Having loved the author's previous book #TheGirlFromWidowHills I was excited to read this. This one however was more of a nice, slow-burn mystery than a unique, psychological thriller. But again it was one of those stories where anyone could’ve been the murderer and I truly suspected pretty much every neighbour at one point or another. Once again I also loved Megan Miranda's effortless writing style and was totally invested in the community she created right from the off and the cute map illustrating who lived where and the layout of the neighbourhood. I totally wanted to live there with its idyllic lakeside location and communal swimming pool, BBQs and parties. I liked the irony of the original 'who-dunnit' but was disappointed and a bit confused by the overall ending which felt like a bit of a non-ending. I definitely would have liked to understand some of the characters more and the whys behind a few of their behaviours and actions.

#4 I Know What You've Done by Dorothy Koomson (8 Jul 2021)

What if all your neighbours' secrets landed in a diary on your doorstep? What if the woman who gave it to you was murdered by one of the people in the diary? What if the police asked if you knew anything?Would you hand over the book of secrets? Or ... would you try to find out what everyone had done?

In my opinion: ★★★★

Dorothy Koomson is one of my favourite authors with all of her stories completely unique and so different from each other. So, for that reason I guess it was bound to happen up some point but this particular plot sadly just wasn't didn't captivate like her others have. There were lots of characters/neighbours, lots of stories and multiple timelines which made it difficult to focus especially as some turned out to be just background noise and unusually I didn't really care or identify with any of them. I liked the irony of Priscilla's attempted murder but overall found the motives (particularly Lilly's) quite stretched. This definitely wasn't my favourite Koomson but others have loved it and my expectations are always ridiculously high when reading a much loved author - really a 3.5 rating but rounded up because I love the author.

#5 The Lock In by Phoebe Lockhurst (22 Jul 2021)

One Saturday morning a flooded kitchen leads best friends Ellen and Alexa into their attic. But when Ben - Alexa's date from the night before - walks in, the handle breaks, and all are trapped. While Ellen nurses her hangover, she watches her best friend fall for this gorgeous stranger. Only to come to the horrifying realisation that she knows him from somewhere. . . . 

In my opinion: ★★★

Granted this only had four characters and one setting - its about four housemates getting locked in the attic - but even so I did expect slightly more action and definitely more humour. In fact that's why I was drawn to this with its promise of hilarity and recommendation for fans of Beth O'Leary and Mhairi McFarlane (two of my favourite authors). With such a fun and unique premise I was expecting lots of situational based humour and craziness. But, sadly the author didn't really make use of the lock-in and focused instead on a backstory that had no real baring on the plot or characters now. I usually like narration that switches between characters, because I love the way two people can view the same thing in a completely different way, but again I don't think the author made the most of this style. It was an easy, light-hearted read that's worth a try but it just wasn't the story I was expecting.

#6 You and Me on Vacation by Emily Henry (8 Jul 2021)

Two friends and a pact: every year, one vacation together. Ten summer trips and their last chance to fall in love as this summer Poppy asks Alex to join her on one last trip. A trip that will determine the rest of their lives.

In my opinion: ★★★

I got the wrong impression of this after skim reading the blurb, thinking it was about fate; two people who fall in love after their paths keep crossing. But, it was actually two best friends and twelve years of summer vacations resulting in one of the longest will they/won't they's ever. The fact that there was essentially only two characters, one storyline and such an extended timeline made this quite a long, slow, repetitive read. Sadly even the the multiple "vacations" were very samey. I wanted more flavour of the places they were visiting and alternating Poppy's point of view with Alex's could also have been a nice touch. Lots of people have loved this slow-burn friends to lovers romance but sadly it wasn't for me.

Best Of June 2021

Wherever you're reading this summer, there's plenty of new
releases to get stuck into this June.

Hostage by Clare Mackintosh (22 Jun 2021)

You can save hundreds of lives. Or the one that matters most . . .

The atmosphere on board the first non-stop flight from London to Sydney is electric, and the world is watching the landmark journey. Soon after the plane takes off, flight attendant Mina receives a chilling anonymous note. Someone wants to make sure the plane never reaches its destination. They're demanding her cooperation . . . and they know exactly how to get it.

In my opinion: ★★★★★

Wow - I absolutely loved this. It's brilliantly smart, chillingly realistic, extremely addictive, nail-bitingly tense, excitingly fast paced and powerfully emotional (so many adjectives)! I was gripped from the very first to last page, reading long into the night. I've never read the author before but the story telling was vivid with its hour by hour account and well done - the opening made me imagine an entirely different ending and the passenger extracts gave understanding to events unfolding. And, then the actual ending was twist after twist and completely unexpected as well as perfectly apt. Initially I didn't take to Adam, Sophia or Mina (particularly one of her decisions but I guess that's the point of moral dilemmas we never know how we'd react) but the author developed their characters brilliantly, with the dual narrative, until I found myself totally connected them. Like Lisa Jewell blurbs on the cover I too can really see this being made into a blockbuster movie.

The Beach Reads Book Club by Kathryn Freeman (30 Jun 2021)

When Lottie Watt is unceremoniously booted out of her uptight book club for not following the rules, she decides to throw the rulebook out the window and start her own club – one where conversation, gin and cake take precedent over actually having read the book! The Beach Reads Book Club soon finds a home for its meetings at Books by the Bay, a charming bookshop and café owned by gorgeous, brooding Matthew Steele, and as the book club picks heat up, so too does the attraction between Matt and Lottie.

In my opinion: ★★★★★

A book about a book club - what's not to like? And, I didn't just like it, I loved it! I knew I would though from the intro when the author describes its as "one for all bookworms, book clubs, book bloggers and book readers. And also for all fans of romcoms, chicklit, romance and happy ever afters." It is a charming yet contemporary story of love, friendship and books with an adorable dog thrown in too. The members of the book club provide a great cast of diverse characters and unlikely friendships with my favourite definitely young-at-heart octogenarian Audrey who likes books featuring "rumpy-pumpy". Throughout the book the group read and discuss many such books including some of my favourites and some that I now can't wait to read myself. I just wish The Beach Reads Book Club was real so I could join and perhaps also bookshop owner Matt too - as like main character Lottie I fell for him a bit too!

The Disappearing Act by Catherine Steadman (24 Jun 2021)

A woman has gone missing. But did she ever really exist? Mia Eliot has travelled from London to LA for pilot season. At an audition she meets Emily, and what starts as a simple favour takes a dark turn when Emily goes missing and Mia is the last person to see her. Then a woman turns up, claiming to be Emily, but she is nothing like Mia remembers. Starting to question her own sanity, she goes on a desperate and dangerous search for answers, knowing something is very, very wrong. In an industry where everything is about creating illusions, how do you know what is real? And how much would you risk to find out?

In my opinion: ★★★★

Author Catherine Steadman is also an actress and perhaps because of this her big climatic reveals seem pretty far fetched, frenetic and OTT - and definitely movie like in terms of the fight scenes where people people keep getting knocked down only to get up again and again. But, I just love the way she writes and this was another unusual plot that really captured my interest. So, even though I was disappointed with the ending (well the driving force behind the ending) I still loved the journey - and any book that pulls you in and keeps you wanting to read has got to be worth reading!

A Racing Murder by Frances Evesham (15 Jun 2021)

Belinda Sandford feels like the luckiest girl in the world as her beautiful grey racehorse, ‘Butterfly Charm’, thunders past the finishing post first at Wincanton Racecourse. But a stewards’ enquiry overturns the result and awards the race to her long-time rival, Alexandra Deacon. When Alex is found dead, Belinda's distraught mother begs Adam Hennessy, retired police officer and publican, to help clear her daughter’s name. As Adam, and local hotelier Imogen Bishop, dig deep into the murky and powerful undercurrents of the horse racing world, they lay bare the lives and loves of local jockeys, grooms, trainers and owners.

In my opinion: ★★★★

This is the second book in a series, and what a delightful cast and setting the author has created in Ham Hill. Village life revolves around the hotel, the pub and village shop with the three social hubs providing plenty of gossip and leads for the amateur sleuths to follow-up. I also enjoyed the added insight into the world of horse racing in this one and side helping of romance. It was a bit of a slow burn on the murder mystery front but that was to be expected as it's billed as a "cosy mystery". This enjoyable read is exactly what it says and works perfectly well whether you've read the previous one or not.

Where The Grass Is Green by Lauren Weisberger (10 Jun 2021)

Peyton Marcus is the anchor of the most-watched morning show in New York, with a husband who adores her and a daughter who’s headed to one of the best Ivy League schools. Skye, her sister, is a stay-at-home mom with a knack for helicopter-parenting. Max, Peyton’s bright and quirky seventeen-year-old daughter, is poised to kiss the fancy private school she hates goodbye – and all of its spoiled rich kids – and head off to pursue her dreams in film. But suddenly the grass isn’t looking so green. One little lie. That was all it took. Will any of them survive the truth?

In my opinion: ★★★★

Lauren Weisberger is, and always will be, an auto-read author for me. Instantly I was reminded why when in the opening restaurant scene a wooden stool is provided for designer handbags to be seated on. I love these ridiculous over-the-top satirical glimpses into the world of the rich and famous that provide the basis of her books. But, somehow this one just felt a little different, a little less fun and a little less satirical than normal. At first I thought it was because her characters are usually normal people who temporarily become self-absorbed after getting thrust unexpectedly into a privileged lifestyle before finding themselves again - but that actually is still true of main character Peyton. This one focuses more on family than romance so maybe it's that or that I didn't much care for Skye or the sub-plot involving her. But, then at the end Weisberger confides that she struggled creatively writing a book during a pandemic so maybe it is just a little flatter than her usual trademark style. That said it's still an entertaining read, with an enjoyable storyline (the main one) and two very likeable characters in Peyton and her genuine, quirky daughter, Max.

The Lies We Tell by Jane Corry (17 Jun 2021)

Sarah always thought of herself and her husband, Tom, as good people. But that was before their son Freddy came home saying he'd done something terrible. Begging them not to tell the police. Soon Sarah and Tom must find out just how far they are willing to push themselves, and their marriage, to protect their only child . . .

In my opinion: ★★★

From the blurb I was expecting some kind of moral dilemma where Sarah and her husband, Tom, have to decide how far they're willing to go to protect their only child after he confesses to murder. Disappointingly, however, this very much concentrates on the build up rather than the aftermath. The story opens with the confession but then it's not until the latter half or third of the book that we get back to that. Don't get me wrong the back stories are compelling and integral to the present day and the author does a brilliant job of character development explaining how these two very diff people ended up married but it just wasn't quite the story I was expecting.

Best of May 2021

There's plenty of new releases for book lovers to look forward to this May, and I'm lucky enough to have been able to preview some of them for you.

#1 The Cancer Ladies Running Club by Josie Lloyd (13 May 2021)

When Keira first receives her breast cancer diagnosis, she never expects to end up joining a running group with three women she’s only just met. Totally blind-sided, all she can think about is how she doesn’t want to be part of a group of fellow cancer patients. Cancer is not her club. And yet it’s running – hot, sweaty, lycra-clad running in the company of brilliant, funny women all going through treatment – that unexpectedly gives Keira the hope she so urgently needs.

In my opinion: ★★★★★

Wow - this packs an emotional punch! It made me laugh and cry, fearful yet inspired, entertained and educated, and everything in-between. It had me before it even began with the 'Dear Reader' letter in which the author reveals the book is based on her own cancer journey. Knowing that, at first I couldn't get my head around the characters in that Keira isn't an author but owns a shop and Tom is a regular husband and not part of one of my favourite author double acts. But I soon forgot that and those elements (teenage angst, poorly pets, difficult colleagues, leaky conservatories, etc) added something else to the story as like in real life cancer doesn't take place in a vacuum. Don't get me wrong the author doesn't shy away from the heartbreaking realities of cancer but her easy-going, contemporary, witty writing style makes for an enjoyable and uplifting read despite the melancholy subject. Everyone should read this - especially as I really can't do it justice in my review! 

#2 Family Secrets at Hedgehog Hollow by Jessica Redland (4 May 2021)

Every family has its secrets, and at Hedgehog Hollow there is no exception. When her self-absorbed cousin, Chloe, unexpectedly turns up at the farm - swiftly handing over her baby to Samantha to care for – trouble is definitely brewing. Especially as Chloe won’t tell anyone why she’s left her husband, James. As Samantha juggles new hedgehog arrivals, family dramas and her own health challenges, it soon becomes clear that she needs to start putting herself first for once. Little does she know that life-changing secrets from the past are about to unravel and turn their lives upside down...

In my opinion: ★★★★★

I loved this just as much as the previous one. Disappointingly there didn't seem to be as much of the hedgehogs and rescue centre in this one. But it was just like catching up with old friends, finding out what Sam and her family and friends had been up to since last time. I don't know how the author does it because this is a crazy cast of characters where everyone is somehow related to or been dating everyone else and all have turbulent pasts - it really should be too much. But, somehow it works and despite the drama it's still easy, warm, charming and light-hearted. This is the third in the series but don't worry if you haven't read the others as there's a helpful introduction (or recap) to the characters and story so far at the start. It's good to know that there's definitely going to be a fourth - I can't wait!

#3 The Secret Bridesmaid by Katy Birchall (13 May 2021)

As a professional bridesmaid, Sophie is secretly hired by brides to be their right-hand woman, ensuring their big day goes off without a hitch. From wrangling rowdy hen dos to navigating last minute portaloo cancellations, there's no problem she can't solve. So when she's employed by an actual Marchioness to help plan the society wedding of the year, it should be a chance for Sophie to prove just how talented she is. Of course, it's not ideal that the bride, Cordelia, is rude, difficult and determined to make Sophie's life a nightmare. It's also a bit inconvenient when Sophie finds herself drawn to Cordelia's posh older brother, who is absolutely off limits. 

In my opinion: ★★★★★

As a fan of chicklit I loved this! My favourites are multi-dimensional storylines with a smattering of romance alongside strong friendships, family bonds or community spirit and/or a creative job or small business. And, this was exactly that - a fun story based around Sophie's unusual job as a professional bridesmaid, creating the basis for an unlikely friendship and little romance too. A nice touch - and some of the funniest bits - were the email and text exchanges between Sophie and her brides detailing their crazy demands such as dying her hair to match the other bridesmaids. Sophie was a very likeable character supported by a cast of equally likeable supporting characters.

#4 Perfect on Paper by Gillian Harvey (13 May 2021)

Clare Bailey's life is perfect. Successful career, loving husband, two kids and a gorgeous townhouse. At least, that's how it looks from the outside. In fact, she's never felt more invisible. Her boss barely remembers her name, her husband is distracted by his new TV job and her daughter has never found her more embarrassing! But when she's given a chance to turn her life upside-down she wonders whether she should risk everything she loves for a life that's more than just 'perfect on paper'...?

In my opinion: ★★★★

This book is loosely based on Britain's Got Talent with the main character accidentally entering a reality TV talent show. And, much like reality TV it was good fun, ridiculously unrealistic, laugh-out-loud funny, light-hearted entertainment and pure escapism. Whilst I couldn't relate to Clare - a middle-aged woman whose family take her for granted - I could totally relate to some bits of her life such as being given a cupboard for an office. This everyday situational humour was both funny and also a nice balance with the fantastical reality show element. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I really enjoyed her contemporary, fun writing style. Enjoy this for it is and I'm sure like me you'll love it.

#5 The Couple by Helly Acton (27 May 2021)

Millie is happy, she's successful and, with a great support network of friends and family (and a very grumpy cat), she's never lonely. The last thing she needs is romance messing up her perfectly organised world. Besides, normal people just don't have romantic relationships. Everyone knows that being in a couple is a bit . . . well, odd. No, Millie is more than happy with her conventional single life. So, when Millie lands a new project at work, launching a pill that prevents you falling in love, it seems like the opportunity of a lifetime. That is, until she starts working with Ben. Will Millie sacrifice everything she believes in for love?

In my opinion: ★★★★

I absolutely loved the author's previous book #TheShelf, totally relating to so many of the refreshingly real, contemporary, feminist and hilarious view points and life lessons of a single woman in her early thirties “trying to find someone to do life with” whilst wondering if that's even what she wants. So, I was really excited to read this especially as in her introductory note Helly explains she wrote this imaging a society that doesn't question why women are single but why aren't they. I guess it was that with main character Millie more than happy with her conventional single life in a world where normal people just don't have romantic relationships, St Bridget's Day is celebrated, double occupancy fees exist and popular songs such as "I Will Always Love Me". But instead of a celebration of single life it seemed like a bit of a mickey take with its alternate society and extremes - kind of like being anti-men as opposed to feminist/pro-women. And, for me that feeling overshadowed everything to the detriment of the fabulous writing, wit, characters and romcom (which is the reason why I've rounded up from a 3.5 rather than down).

#6 The Guest Book by C.L. Pattison (27 May 2021)

Charles and Grace wanted a quiet staycation honeymoon, but when their train terminates early due to a storm up ahead, they wonder if they made the wrong decision. Forced to take shelter in the nearest seaside town, Saltwater, they discover that there is only one guesthouse left. Unlike the rest of Saltwater, The Anchorage is entirely deserted. That night, with the storm howling relentlessly, Grace is woken by a child crying. She is haunted by the sound, until Charles convinces her it was only her imagination. But the next day, she finds a warning scrawled in the guest book: Leave now. Do not trust them.

In my opinion: ★★★

This was an odd one - normally I'm gripped and love the read but then am disheartened once I know how it all pans out. Weirdly this was kind of the other way round - the story didn't really capture my imagination or connect me during the telling but once I understood it I saw everything in a completely different light. The cast was quite small, the characters fairly ordinary and under-developed and the pace quite slow which is why I wasn't captivated at the time. But in hindsight it's a heart-breakingly sad and unexpected tale - I just wish certain characters had been been given the air time they deserved and readers somehow given a deeper insight into them and their story.

#7 Stranger by Karen Perry (13 May 2021)

Abi Holland is worried about her daughter Beth. So when foreign exchange student Corinne comes to stay, it's a relief to see her daughter making a friend. But the Holland family have lots of secrets, and Corinne is quietly listening to them all. Watching. Waiting. Ready to show them what they should really be worried about . . .

In my opinion: ★★★

Having loved every single one of their books, Karen Perry is one of my all-time favourite authors. But, sadly this one just wasn't for me. I felt uncomfortable from the off with the early hints of what might be to come. With a cast of adolescent girls and young adults combined with a theme of sexual relations and abuse I really didn't enjoy the storyline and wouldn't have picked it up had I known. 

Best of September 2021

I can't believe summer is over already - at least there's plenty of great books out this month to make up for it. From festive reads to domestic thrillers here's what I'm recommending this September.

Next of Kin by Kia Abdullah (2 Sep 2021)

Leila Syed receives a call that cleaves her life in two. Her brother-in-law’s voice is filled with panic. His son’s nursery has called to ask where little Max is. Leila was supposed to drop Max off that morning. But she forgot. Racing to the car park, she grasps the horror of what she has done. What follows is an explosive, high-profile trial that will tear the family apart. But as the case progresses it becomes clear there’s more to this incident than meets the eye…

In my opinion: ★★★★★

WOW! This was one of the most shocking opening chapters that I’ve ever read - more so because I'd completely forgotten what the book was about by the time I started reading. As the blurb warns career-focused Leila forgets she's meant to be dropping her nephew off at nursery when she rushes into work. It may be a difficult read for some but it's brilliantly written, so whilst hard-hitting and emotional, the taboo storyline is sensitively portrayed. You feel every emotion of the main characters and I liked that there were no 'good' or 'bad guys', just ordinary people pushed to the edge by unthinkable circumstances. Early on the author hints that that things are not what they seem but I could never have predicted the twists and turns - which I can't talk about for fear of spoiling it but suffice to say I absolutely loved. Its definitely one of those (original) stories that will get under your skin and stay in your mind for a long time. 

Autumn Dreams at Mermaids Point by Sarah Bennett (23 Sep 2021)

When her dreams of young love were cruelly shattered, Nerissa Morgan found it hard to move on. Now, at forty-three, with her boss retiring and rumours of a new doctor coming in to take over, change is coming, whether she’s ready for it or not. Following the death of his beloved wife, Tom Nelson buried himself in work at his busy inner-London GP practice. When his teenage children find themselves in trouble at school, he's desperate to reconnect before it’s too late and whisks his family away to the pretty seaside village of Mermaids Point to make a fresh start. But, the last thing Tom needs is an undeniable attraction to the woman he unexpectedly finds himself sharing a roof with…

In my opinion: ★★★★★

Having loved Summer Kisses at Mermaids Point I was nervous to see if this would live up to its predecessor - thankfully it did. Once again I loved the author's easy style, the charming but contemporary storyline and the gorgeous seaside village with its warm and friendly inhabitants. I enjoyed catching up with old friends, such as Laurie and Jake, as well as getting to know new ones. That said I found the extensive character list at the beginning over-whelming as there just seemed like too many people to keep up with - but in the end most were only bit parts and everyone else introduced gradually. So, much like the first, I adored this latest instalment and can't wait to see what the villagers get up to next - especially as this one did end appropriately but a little abruptly (I wanted to see how the family reacted).

The Man Who Died Twice by Richard Osman (16 Sep 2021)

Elizabeth has received a letter from an old colleague. His story involves stolen diamonds, a violent mobster, and a very real threat to his life. As bodies start piling up, Elizabeth enlists Joyce, Ibrahim and Ron in the hunt for a ruthless murderer. And if they find the diamonds too? Well, wouldn't that be a bonus? But this time they are up against an enemy who wouldn't bat an eyelid at knocking off four septuagenarians. Can the Thursday Murder Club find the killer (and the diamonds) before the killer finds them?

In my opinion: ★★★★★

I love this group of crime-fighting, feisty, young-at-heart pensioners. Richard Osman captures the rambling, chatty musings of many elderly people perfectly as this extract of Joyce shows. "I've never thought that a guinea pig might need rescuing before, but I suppose they do. We all need it once in a while, and I don't see why guinea pigs would be any different. They eat guinea pigs in Peru, did you know? It was on Masterchef the other day. They just mentioned it, they didn't actually eat one." But at the same time these are no ordinary pensioners, as DCI Chris Hudson says, when Elizabeth announces she wants to organise a meeting with the mafia: "Of course you do. Any reason? Or was bridge cancelled and you had a slot in your diary." So, once again I loved this. In fact I think it was better than the first as the plot was less chaotic, complex and over-stuffed. Whilst not something serious murder mystery fans will probably like, the Thursday Murder Club is so much fun - and I hope there's more to come from the gang.

The Good Sister by Sally Hepworth (16 Sep 2021)

Fern Castle works in her local library. She has dinner with her twin sister Rose three nights a week. And she avoids crowds, bright lights and loud noises as much as possible. Fern has a carefully structured life and disrupting her routine can be ... dangerous. When Rose discovers that she cannot fall pregnant, Fern sees her chance to pay her sister back for everything Rose has done for her. Fern can have a baby for Rose. She just needs to find a father. Simple. Fern's mission will shake the foundations of the life she has carefully built for herself and stir up dark secrets from the past, in this quirky, rich and shocking story of unexpected love.

In my opinion: ★★★★

This turned out to be completely different to what I was expecting and very different to my normal reads. It covered a lot of deep themes including mental health, illness, addiction, sexual abuse and emotional abuse. And, at first I really didn't like it. Yet it was oddly compellingly and by the end I kinda loved it. The reason was main character and twin Fern. Fern is "different" and outside of my world - she has sensory processing issues and lacks social awareness but she really grew on me as I began to understand her better. I loved her view of the world and in particular agree with her astonishment that medical advances haven't come up with "a better way" of having babies and that shaking hands is risky for a person's health. With Fern's first person narrative interspersed with extracts from the other twin Rose's journal it's quickly evident from the different retellings of the same events that one of these sisters is an unreliable narrator? But, which one is 'The Good Sister'?

I Have Something To Tell You by Susan Lewis (16 Sep 2021)

High-flying lawyer Jay Wells has a successful career, loving husband and a family she adores. But one case – and one client – will put all that at risk. Edward Blake - an ordinary life turned upside down or a man who quietly watched television while his wife was murdered upstairs? Then Jay comes home one day and her husband utters the words no one ever wants to hear. Sit down … I have something to tell you Now Jay must fight not only for the man she defends, but for the man she thought she trusted with her life – her husband.

In my opinion: ★★★★

Susan Lewis is a brilliant storyteller, creating unique situations and moral dilemmas that leave you wondering what you would do in a similar situation. This was no exception yet was also somehow another completely different and unexpected storyline. I enjoyed the murder investigation - although Jay did seem to go unrealistically above and beyond her duties as a lawyer. Initially I did think there was too much focus on Jay's personal life, however, as the story progressed the reason for that became clear. And, as usual with the author I really didn't see that ending coming. Another great read from one of my favourite authors.

The Heights by Lousie Candlish (1 Sep 2021)

The Heights is a tall, slender apartment building among the warehouses of Tower Bridge, its roof terrace so discreet you wouldn’t know it existed if you weren't standing at the window of the flat directly opposite. But you are. And that’s when you see a man up there – a man you’d recognize anywhere. He’s older now and his appearance has subtly changed, but it’s definitely him. Which makes no sense at all since you know he has been dead for over two years.  You know this for a fact. Because you’re the one who killed him.  It’s time to confess what we did up there.

In my opinion: ★★★★

I'm new to this author having only read one previous books of hers. Unlike #TheOtherPassenger this one was more of slow-burn domestic thriller - exploring grief, obsession and revenge vengeance - until the surprise ending which I gather is a trademark of Louise Candlish. She is also known for creating unlikable and deeply flawed characters, which she definitely did with main character Ellen, whose fantasist, obessive behaviour just did seem a bit extreme for the circumstances. I get the revenge aspect driven by grief but Ellen's 'crazy' existed way before her son's death back when she just didn't like the way her son's teenage friend looked at her. And, that was it with this - once again I loved the writing and everyone else has loved it but I just didn't take to this particular storyline for some reason, perhaps because it is Ellen's story (literally and metaphorically as she's writing a book). It’s interspersed with an article on her and also later Vic’s point of view as her ex partner and son's father, but understanding more about Kieran and his point of view would have given more context.

The Secret Keeper's Daughter by Samantha King (10 Sep 2021)

Holly Mayhew has the perfect family set-up. But when her seven-year-old daughter, Marley, begins to act strangely, refusing to speak and rushing off to hide in her room, she knows something isn’t right. Desperate to understand why Marley has become so withdrawn, Holly creates a worry box, where Marley posts her thoughts each day. At first, the messages seem innocent. But when Holly finds a note saying secrets make me sad, she begins to question everyone entrusted with her care…Including her family.

In my opinion: ★★★★

This definitely held my interest as I could never tell where the story was heading. I thought it was going to be a psychological thriller especially as it plays out in a way that seems really dark and twisted. But much like the story, which is essentially about how easy it is to get the wrong impression, it turned out to be more of a family drama than a thriller. In the end it really wasn't as menacing as it seemed and when the truth finally came out (in one big rush) it was a bit underwhelming in many ways. It's an easy and compelling read though so worth the time.

We Are All Liars by Carys Jones (30 Sep 2021)

We're best friends. We trust each other. But...We are all liars.

Allie, Stacie, Diana, Emily and Gail have been by each other's sides for as long as they can remember. The Fierce Five. Best friends forever. But growing up has meant growing apart. And little white lies have grown into devastating secrets. When Gail invites the increasingly estranged friends to reunite at her Scottish cabin, it could be the opportunity to mend old wounds and heal the cracks in their friendship. But when a freak snowstorm rocks the cabin and one of the girls is found dead on the ice, their weekend away becomes a race against time - and each other - to get off the mountain alive.

In my opinion: ★★★★

This was a crazily unusual read for so many reasons. For the most part it's quite repetitive, overly descriptive and slow as the friends try to contend with the snow storm. There were lots of hints but nothing was explained properly and so it took a long time to find out what had happened to cause the present day tensions. But, the ending is something else - although I still can’t quite decide if it’s really good or just really confusing but what I do know is that it was totally unexpected and unique! The structure is also unusual, flipping regularly between the present mostly from Allie's POV, the police interview of an unidentified person of interest, and flashbacks from multiple viewpoints. These flashbacks are not in separate chapters, chronologically ordered or quantified so at the start while you're still trying to get all the characters and events straight it's all a little random and confusing. I sort of enjoyed this but it's definitely different.

Stranded by Sarah Goodwin (16 Sep 2021)

Eight strangers. One island. A secret you'd kill to keep.

When eight people arrive on the beautiful but remote Buidseach Island, they are ready for the challenge of a lifetime: to live alone for one year. Eighteen months later, a woman is found in an isolated fishing village. She’s desperate to explain what happened to her. How the group fractured and friends became enemies. How they did what they must to survive until the boat came to collect them; how things turned deadly when the boat didn’t come. But first she must come to terms with the devastating secret that left them stranded, and her own role in the events that saw eight arrive and only three leave…

In my opinion: ★★★

I chose this thinking it would be more of a murder mystery. It wasn't. It's more of a survival story, with the extensive descriptions of foraging, building, food preparation, water filtering, latrines (toilets), etc rather repetive and tedious at times. Sadly there's also more of that than the characters themselves. Other than main character, Maddie, we don't get know any of the other seven characters (or reality TV contestants) - their backgrounds, their motives or even really their personalities. Therefore, it's hard to understand how things escalate so quickly from such trivialities and hard to care about anyone's fate - including Maddie as whilst we know her more sadly she's just not that likeable. That said it was still a compelling read until the last third where things got a bit weird to say the least.

A Christmas Wedding in the Cotswolds by Lucy Coleman (2 Sep 2021)

Imogen Tolliman and Gray Adams can’t wait to get married after getting engaged the previous year, when stranded in a blizzard. But when the date slips because Gray is working on a huge film project, it seems like fate that they will end up getting married at Christmas. As well as building work, full-time jobs and wedding planning, Immi is in charge of raising money to build a children’s playground, to celebrate the tenth anniversary of The Santa Ahoy Cruises – her grandfather Tollie’s life work. When a terrible betrayal is uncovered, the whole community of Aysbury is left reeling, and Immi is left wondering if there will be a wedding after all…

In my opinion: ★★★

I didn't realise this was part of a series and whilst most series books work just as well as stand-alones I think reading the prior story # may have helped as it seems like quite a lot of big life-changing things happened previously. I probably would have been more invested in the characters too, all of whom came across as fairly non-descript and similar without their back stories. Sadly the plot was also fairly slow with all the 'action' in the last few chapters and nothing much happening early on other than day-to-day life. For example, there was a chapter on taking delivery of various items of furniture for Immi's new home with a whole paragraph (no exaggeration) on setting up the new cooker - I want escapism not real life when I read. What was really bizarre though was other seemingly significant events, such as the reveal of Val as Immi's mother to the wider community was not given any air time - perhaps again because the primary reveal formed part of the previous book. A perfectly pleasant, festive read but definitely not a must-read in my opinion (only)

Valentine's Day Top Picks

Romcoms are definitely more my thing than pure romances. So if you're in the mood for love (and laughs) this Valentine's Day then here's my favourites from this genre:

Confessions of a Forty-Something F##k-Up  by Alexandra Potter

I love this - probably because like main character Nell I am a forty-something single not on the same page as everyone else around me. Nell's single friends are now married with children, sky-high rents force her to rent a room in a stranger’s house and in a world of perfect instagram lives, she feels like a f*ck up. Even worse, a forty-something f*ck-up.

I totally related to so many of the themes regarding age, marriage and children such as “I always feel the pressure to explain why I don’t have kids, in a way I’m not sure women who have children do" or “Who can make that kind of promise [marriage] when you truly have no idea what will happen in the next thirty or more years?” But, it was the love/hate dynamics of unlikely housemates Nell and Edward that I really loved. Set over the course of a year, with chapters denoted by months, made the course of events and speed at which relationships developed more realistic and believable than some romance novels where boy meets girl and settles down together a week later. Unlike some this also wasn’t entirely predictable – I mean it did end up exactly as I hoped and thought but somewhere in the middle it wasn’t a given.

And, in terms of the 'com' this is funny – truly hilariously funny. There’s funny one-liners: “My theory is that’s why our eyesight goes as we get older: to protect us from seeing ourselves in sharp focus.” But, also plenty of situational humour such as Nell’s attempts at babysitter or dealing with Arthur’s dog-poo. But, it’s not all laughs. There are some serious messages and life lessons too such as: “Real life is messy and complicated. Shit happens. One size doesn’t fit all....We’re all just living our life, and it might not tick all the boxes or look Insta-perfect, but that’s OK.” And, finally this had a great cast of characters but even more so was the dynamics between them in particular “the super fabulous Cricket”.

We Just Clicked by Anna Bell

As one of the funniest books I've read I absolutely love this. The situational and observational humour is spot-on from the colleague who never makes tea to going out for the night but wondering how long you have to stay before it's acceptable to go home and get into your PJs. There's also the awkwardness of a glass-walled ensuite in your swanky hotel or not realising your girlfriend has a flat full of people when you start discussing your sex life over the flat's intercom. 

This is a great contemporary love story highlighting the difference between people's perfectly-filtered life online and their real life - including in Izzy's case a fake boyfriend. At the same time Izzy runs into Aidan and major sparks start to fly between them. There's also a great posse of characters - I even loved fake boyfriend and fellow instagrammer, Luke, secretly hoping there were actually genuine feelings developing on his side. 

This hilariously funny, fast-paced, light-hearted romantic comedy is my favourite but 'The Man I Didn't Marry' by the same author is also amazing and perhaps more romantic whilst still funny.

The Summer Job by Lizzie Dent (Coming soon)

I LOVE this great story about a "ramshackle family hotel.....trying so desperately to be grander and more magnificent than it was....filled with imperfect people, all muddling along together with their ridiculous flaws and gigantic hearts". But, it was totally main character, Elizabeth Finch or Birdy to her friends, that made this for me. She's a wonderfully boisterous, attention-seeking, risk-taking, sarcastic gobshite thirty-one year old girl trying to stop herself from falling for the first man she's ever actually liked (but who thinks she's someone else).

But, mostly she's hilarious as this quote shows where Birdy is about to finally get it on with James: "I stink. I haven't had a shower and I'm still wearing yesterday's knickers. Oh, and in this light, I'd better warn you, there will be some disappointments." Or "Sorry, James, I'm a total mess. I'd like to say it gets better than this, but it really doesn't."