Merry Christmas!!

Calling Mrs Christmas

Cassie Smith has been out of work for a while but she has an idea. Drawing on her love of Christmas, she begins charging for small things: wrapping presents; writing cards; tree-decorating. She's soon in huge demand and Cassie's business, Calling Mrs Christmas, is born.

Carter Randall wants to make Christmas special for his children so he enlists Cassie's help, and his lavish requests start taking up all her time. Thank goodness she can rely on her partner Jim to handle the rest of her clients.

When Carter asks Cassie to join them on a trip to Lapland, she knows she shouldn't go. As much as tries, Cassie can't deny how drawn she is to Carter and everything he has to offer, but she still loves her warm-hearted Jim. Suddenly Cassie finds herself facing a heart-breaking choice that could change her entire life.

My Opinion: For my last Christmassy read of the year I read Calling Mrs Christmas, the latest book from Carole Matthews.

Cassie comes up with an idea to make some money over the Christmas period and starts offering services to buy presents, decorate trees and do almost anything else to make people's Christmasses a bit less stressful! The business is a huge success and she soon finds herself picking up a new client in the form of Carter Randall, after accidentally throwing a drink over him.

Carter procures Cassie's services to make Christmas perfect for his children, by decorating and arranging the trip of a lifetime. Little does Cassie know that she will be asked to join them on the trip and end up having to make a life changing decision.

I enjoyed this book and thought that it was really well written with a well thought out storyline. The only thing that grated on me was Cassie. She is selfish, takes her partner Jim for granted and gets too easily swayed by the amount of money in someones wallet, rather than how they are as a person. It didn't spoil the book for me though and I would recommend it to fans of chick lit and Carole Matthews.

My rating: A festive four stars.

Xmas Wishlist - Jaimie Admans

Ampersand necklace
http://www.etsy.com/listing/164659990/ampersand-necklace-sterling-silver-chain



I love ampersands! I don’t know why, maybe it’s a writer thing! I have a massive wooden one on the wall above my computer and looking at it reminds me that I should be writing more words, so maybe that’s why I like them. I don’t really do dainty little necklaces like this one, but for some reason I really like it, although have stopped myself buying it as I’d be so afraid of breaking it I’d probably only ever wear it on really special occasions!

New Kindle, and/or never-ending Kindle battery



I absolutely love my Kindle, I don’t know how I ever survived without it, but the most frustrating thing in the world is either when you settle down in bed, all ready to curl up with a book, and the battery dies. Or when you get to a vital part, the heart-in-throat moment of a thriller, and the damn thing turns itself off and the charging icon comes up on the screen! Then you have to wait quarter of an hour while it’s plugged in before you can even turn it back on and sit in front of the plug socket to finish the chapter! My Kindle has rapidly deteriorated this year in terms of battery life and how much warning it gives before switching off. It’s a couple of years old now so perhaps it’s coming to the end of it’s life, but I wish there was such a thing as a never-ending Kindle battery, or at least some emergency contraption you could plug into it to give it an extra boost until you’ve got past the exciting book moments!

A bookshelf with unlimited space



A common problem faced by all booklovers – how much space books take up! I love paperback books, but I hardly ever buy them anymore due to my multiple bookshelves being full! Let’s face it, even full is an understatement. Full-to-bursting or about-to-explode also work. I always buy the ebook versions of books now, and try to get my fix by lovingly stroking paperbacks in the shops and toddling off home to my Kindle which has almost unlimited space but is sadly lacking that real-book smell.

Comfy reading chair and/or nook



It might sound silly but the only place I have to read is in bed! The sofa is in the living room which is always too noisy for reading, so my only reading option is the bed! I would love a little reading nook, you know, a cosy chair surrounded by shelves of gorgeous books… I might need a bigger house first though!

Once Upon A Time notebook
http://www.notonthehighstreet.com/heatheralsteaddesign/product/once-upon-a-time-notebook



Like lots of people I know, I have an addiction to stationery! Pretty notebooks, pens, note cards, boxes. Notebooks are my biggest downfall, I always swear I won’t buy any more but then I find the stationery section in a shop and they’re all just so pretty, it would be wrong to walk out without at least one! Of course, I now have so many notebooks that it will take me three lifetimes to get through them, and I still make a beeline for the stationery section! It’s impossible to resist a nice notebook! I tell myself I can count them as ‘writerly expenses’ but my notebook drawer(s) could supply ten writers by now!

A multitude of books that people have recommended to me this year.



There are so many books on my to-read list that sound amazing! I follow quite a few avid readers on Twitter and almost every day someone will recommend a book that sounds brilliant, I just need more hours in the day to read them all! I won’t write the list out or we’d be here all night, but there are so many books I really want to read, I would be thrilled to find any of them under the tree this year!

Ferrero Rocher



No Christmas list would be complete without mentioning food of some sort, and I couldn’t possibly read all those books without some kind of sustenance by my side, so I’ll have a giant box of Ferrero Rocher, please! They’re my absolute favourites! I’m actually really lucky at this time of year because my birthday is a few days after Christmas, so no sooner have I eaten the boxes people bought me for Christmas, I get given more!

Thanks, Santa!

Xmas Wishlist - Jo @ Cometbabesbooks

Hi Everyone

I volunteered to take part in Sheli’s Xmas wish list feature in October. I am new to blogging and only created my blog in September, so I am especially thrilled that Sheli has allowed me to be apart of this

My wish list is:-

A Diary to organise my blog, I always seem to be on the last minute getting posts ready or reading books for blog tours, for 2014 I would like to be a little more organised.

A Nexus 7, been told these are one of the best tablets after an IPad.

A case for a Nexus 7, to make it easier to type my tweets and blog

I have also asked for Amazon vouchers, I’m sure these are must for all bookish fiends as I have 110 books on my wish list in Amazon, if not Amazon vouchers then of course I want books, books and more books.

Topping my wish list are the following books, despite the fact that my TBR pile seems to be getting out of control.

April Fools by Karli Perrin, I still have April Showers to read, but loved Karli’s Christmas offering The Gift.

The Elemental World series by Elizabeth Hunter, read the Elemental Mysteries Series earlier in the year and these tie in with the Characters in those books.

All the Vampire Academy Series by Richelle Mead

The Keys to the Kingdom Series by Garth Nix

The Divergent Series by Veronica Roth

Top of my wish list is
In The Pleasure Groove: Love, Death and Duran Duran

Hope Santa brings my wish list and everyone else’s wish list.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Thanks again Sheli.

Jo xx

My twitter is @cometbabe

Please come and visit me on my blog: cometbabesbooks.blogspot.co.uk

Xmas Wishlist - Kate @ Books with Bunny

When Sheli asked me to make a list of books I wanted for Christmas I thought it was my lucky day. Unfortunately, as lovely and generous as she is, she wasn't offering to buy me them-she was just being nosy! So, here are the books I am hoping to find in my stocking on Christmas morning.

1) Her Brilliant Career-Rachel Cooke

I love the 50s and often think I was born in the wrong era. This book sounds amazing, a look at how women in this decade of change were taking life by the scruff of the neck and realising their dreams. I imagine it will be an inspiring read.

2) The Rehearsal- Eleanor Catton

Eleanor Catton is now a big name in book circles after winning this years Man Booker Prize. I do want to read The Luminaries, but this appeals to me more.

3) The Book of Summers-Emylia Hall

I read Emylia Hall's A Heart Bent Out of Shape this year and enjoyed it, so I definitely want to read this book. I'll be interested to see if it stirs up my emotions in the same way as A Heart Bent Out of Shape is one of those books that pops into my mind and has made a lasting impression.

4) Fangirl- Rainbow Rowell

Rainbow Rowell seems to be able to tap into something in my brain that makes me just say 'Yes! That's it exactly!' I haven't bought Fangirl yet, partly because I am wanting to save it for a day when I need a read that I know I'll love. If it is half as impressive as Eleanor and Park then it'll be great.

5) The Fault in Our Stars- John Green

I think I'm probably the only person in the whole wide world not to have read this yet. The subject matter scares me a bit as it sounds heavy going, but everyone assures me I'd love it, so I'd like a copy for Christmas so I can give it a whirl.

6) One Direction Official Annual 2014

I don't think anyone will buy this for me to encourage my obsession with Louis Tomlinson, but I would be quite happy with this under my tree if I can't have the lads themselves.

http://www.bookswithbunny.blogspot.co.uk/

@bookswithbunny

www.facebook.com/bookswithbunny

Xmas wishlist - Louise

There are so many fantastic things out there for the discerning bookworm so I’ve tried to be very good and limit myself to 5 items and I hope you appreciate how much restraint this is taking for me!

 

1. Firstly, as a full time mum to a wonderfully lively 3 year old, top of my wishlist would be an afternoon of peace and quiet on a wonderful sofa, under a cosy blanket with a drink, snack and of course a good book.  As I don’t drink tea I would have a hot chocolate and it would be lovely served in one of these with the chocolate bar too of course!!

2. I love and collect nearly as many bookmarks as I do books and think this is one of the cutest I have seen.

3. I have been lucky enough to get a new Kindle Paperwhite this year and as Pride and Prejudice is one of my favourite books in the world I would love one of these to keep my Kindle safe from a toddler’s hands!!

4. Although I usually have so many books on my bookshelves that I don’t usually need bookends, I think these guys are so cute I’d have to make room for them!!

5. I think that this may be the only book in the world where I couldn’t give a hoot about the words, it’s all about the pictures :)

Thanks to Sheli for asking me to be part of her Christmas feature.  I wish her and you a lovely, bookish Christmas.   Louise

I review for Laura at  http://shelovestoread.weebly.com/

I tweet at @jaustenrulesok

Author interview: Jenny Oliver

Today I'm very lucky to have the very lovely Jenny Oliver on the blog talking about her book The Parisian Christmas Bake Off, patisseries and roasted chestnuts!

1. Hi Jenny! Welcome to Sheli Reads! Tell us a bit about your book, The Parisian Christmas Bake Off.

Thanks for having me, Sheli!

The Parisian Christmas Bake Off is essentially about a girl, Rachel, heading off to Paris at Christmas to take part in a competition to become a world-renowned baker's apprentice. But underneath that it's about her coming to terms with the loss of her mother, facing her fears and having the courage to let her talent shine and live in the present again. Plus lots of mouth-watering cakes, competitiveness and sabotage, a sprinkling of romance and whole lot of Christmas!

2. Where did you get your inspiration to write the book?

I had always wanted to write a Christmas book but wasn't quite sure what my setting or theme would be - apart from lots of snow! I was on holiday this year in a little village in France and fell in love with the tiny patisseries that were piled high with the most amazing cakes, tortes, breads and croissants. They were the bustling hub of the village. Those memories combined with a passion for the Bake Off and suddenly everything came together in this book.

3. There are lots of books out now that involve cupcakes, what made you go for delicate French pastries as your festive food of choice in this book?

My grandmother grew up in France so a lot of the cooking in our extended family has a french origin and a fair bit of what they make in the book I grew up watching being baked by my mum or grandmother - and occasionally giving it a go myself! - so it all felt very familiar. Also, while I'm quite partial to a cupcake, I really love the pastries that you see in the window of places like Patisserie Valerie and other little cake shops - strawberry tarts, millefeuille, flakey almond croissants, eclairs and of course the macaroon. They're more art than food! When I walk past those places I have to just pause and admire!

4. Did you base the character of the chef, Henri Salernes, on a celebrity chef?

Not one in particular but I watch a lot of Masterchef and I'm always amazed at the hierarchy in the kitchen and how brutal it can be. I'd either be trembling in the corner or walk out in a rage whereas the junior chefs are so in tune with the system and what's expected that a simple 'yes chef' always seems to be the only answer. There's no quibbling. I liked the idea that no one had ever really had the courage to stand up to Rachel, the protagonist in my book, and tell her that it was time to change, to move on and forward. Possibly the only person who could have done that was her mum and she's gone. So the idea that this mean french chef might be the one to break down her barriers really appealed to me.

5. I would love to read more about Rachel's life back home in her village. Will you be writing more about her?

Yes I think so. I'm working on something at the moment where she appears as a secondary character and it's really lovely to see her and Philippe again - he really makes me laugh so I can't let him go!

6. What can we expect from you next?

I loved writing this book and I especially liked the community of Rachel's home town so, at the moment, that's where I'm headed next.

7. Have you got any tips for aspiring writers out there?

Enjoy what you are writing. And do it as much as possible.

8. I always like to ask a food related question, so what's your favourite treat to get you in a festive mood?

Last weekend we were watching some terrible Christmas film, had just decorated the tree and we roasted some chestnuts! They're one of my all time festive foods. I love breaking open the shells while they're still steaming hot and the flavour just says Christmas to me. The trick is not to forget about them…countless times I've left them in the oven till they're burnt to a crisp so when I get them right they seem doubly special.


Thank you for this great interview Jenny! The Parisian Christmas Bake Off is available on Amazon now, and you can read my review here.

North Pole Reform School Blog Tour - Guest post by Jaimie

Dream Movie Cast for North Pole Reform School

 Mistletoe: Marla Sokoloff



Best known for TV movies and the starring role in one of my favourite Christmas films Christmas In Boston, I think Marla would make a great Mistletoe. She always seems happy and smiley, and I think Mistletoe needs that. She starts the book hating Christmas, and I think she needs to lighten up a bit and smile more at first, and she needs to be likeable. Marla seems like a very likeable actress, and a very good Mistletoe!

Luke: Jeremy Sumpter



Best known for playing Peter Pan in the 2003 live-action version, I have to stress that I’m talking about the grown-up Jeremy Sumpter here! He’s done loads of films and TV series in the past few years. I think he’s got the perfect mix of cheeky grin, messy hair, and bright mischievous eyes that make Luke so attractive!

Xmas Wishlist - Emma Louise @ Emma Louise - Author

Hi everyone, Emma Louise here...

Wow, it’s December already! Before you know it, we’ll be bringing in the New Year and it’ll be Easter before you know it.

December is a special month for me as it’s my birthday month. I was born on the 26^th December 1990 so this year, I’ll be turning twenty-three! People ask me if it’s awkward to have a birthday the day after Christmas but I don’t know any difference. I’m not like the Queen who has two birthdays a year. To me, being born the day after is normal.

Sheli tweeted me in October asking me to get involved in her Christmas Wish List post. Thankfully, I’m always adding books to my Amazon Wish List. I’m sure there are a lot more that I could include, but for now, these are the ones I’m desperate to get my cold fingers on. Some are sequels and others are part of the author’s line of work.

• All of the Rebecca Chance novels, minus Killer Queens.


• The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson.


• Geek Girl 2 by Holly Smale


• Cupcakes At Carrington’s by Alexandra Brown


• All of the Sophie Kinsella novels, minus The Undomestic Goddess and I’ve Got Your Number


• All of the Lindsey Kelk novels, minus About A Girl and I Heart Vegas

 At the moment, my TBR list is crazy but I’m always wanted to buy more books. Literature is a fantastic thing and to be able to read books nonstop is a delicious hobby.

Sheli, thank you for allowing me to take part in your Christmas Wish List post, I’ve had a wonderful time dreaming of all these books.

I hope everyone has a magnificent Christmas and a very happy New Year!

Lots of love,

Emma Louise xxx

 

Twitter: @EmmaLouAuthor

Blog: www.emmaiswriting.wordpress.com
http://emmalouauthor.wordpress.com/

Xmas Wishlist - Shaz @ Shaz's Book Boudoir

When Sheli asked me to write a guest post about what book related gifts were on my Christmas wishlist it was actually quite difficult to narrow it down as there have been so many fabulous books published in the last couple of years that I’ve not had the chance to read yet.

Top of the Christmas wishlist is a cover for my new Kindle Paperwhite that I treated myself to in October as I didn’t realise my existing cover wouldn’t fit it.



This is the one I’ve chosen as it combines two of my favourite things other than books, the colour purple and butterflies although sadly it’s currently out of stock but secretly hoping it becomes available again soon http://www.casehappy.co.uk/kindle-paperwhite-satin-effect-slim-case-516-p.asp

As my first chance cover is not currently available I have also added this one as a substitute choice http://amzn.to/17HEPYd



So now onto a selection of the books that are currently on my Amazon wishlist which was a lot harder to narrow down!
I don’t generally buy Trade Paperbacks as I normally wait for the regular paperback publication but I’ve read some really good reviews for The First Time I Said Goodbye by Claire Allan http://amzn.to/18h47zc



Would you hold on tighter if you knew you were saying goodbye forever? In 1959, factory girl Stella Hegarty finds herself falling unexpectedly for the charms of a handsome US marine based in Derry. Caught up in a whirlwind of romance, Stella finds herself planning a new life in America with her beloved Ray. But when tragedy steps in, both their lives are thrown into turmoil and they come to realise they may have said their first, and last goodbye. In 2010, Annabel Jackson, reeling from the loss of her father, agrees to accompany her mother Stella back to Ireland to meet her family for the first time. In Derry they both start to realise that sometimes you have to say goodbye to what you thought you always wanted, in order to find what you have needed all along..

Next book I would love to receive is The Birthday Girls by Pauline Lawless as I’ve read and enjoyed all of her previous books. http://amzn.to/1egn2Zg



They'd met on their first day at school four little girls who were all very different from each other but who somehow became close friends. Their friendship has now lasted thirty-five years. As their birthdays all fall in the same week they long ago made a pact to spend each big decade birthday together. So far they'd managed it. Now as their thirty-ninth birthday looms, Angel, a famous Hollywood actress, announces that this will be her last birthday. Terrified of aging, she absolutely refuses to turn 40. So Lexi, the mother hen of the group and an artist, invites them to Florida for a week-long celebration of this, their last birthday together. Brenda, mother to five grown-up children, flies in from Dublin, eagerly looking forward to her first foreign holiday ever. Mel, however, has to be prised away from New York where she is a successful partner in a law firm - Mel is a workaholic with no other friends or love in her life. The four come together for the celebration but soon things start to unravel and the week ends disastrously. Lexi is distraught. Can their friendship endure? Only time will tell.

Having just bought The Murder Wall, the first book in the Kate Daniels series by Mari Hannah I’d like to read the other books in the series before the fourth book, Monument to Murder, is published next year. http://amzn.to/I57k9a
Settled Blood http://amzn.to/1eqU4GY

When a young girl is found dead at the base of Hadrian’s Wall, it’s not long before Detective Chief Inspector Kate Daniels realises her death was no ordinary homicide. She was thrown from a great height and was probably alive before she hit the ground. Then a local businessmen reports his daughter missing, has Daniels found the identity of her victim, or is a killer playing a sickening game? As the murder investigation team delve deeper into the case, half truths are told, secrets exposed, and while Daniels makes her way through a mountain of obstacles time is running out for one terrified girl.

Deadly Deceit http://amzn.to/17ZJ0M3

Four a.m on a wet stretch of the A1 and a driver skids out of control. Quick on the scene, Senior Investigating Officer Kate Daniels and partner DS Hank Gormley are presented with a horrifying image of carnage and mayhem that quickly becomes one of the worst road traffic accidents in Northumberland’s history. But as the casualties mount up, they soon realise that not all deaths were as a result of the accident . . . On the other side of town a house goes up in flames, turning its two inhabitants into charred corpses. Seemingly unconnected with the traffic accident, Kate sets about investigating both incidences separately. But it soon becomes apparent that all is not what it seems, and Kate and her colleagues are one always step behind a ruthless killer who will stop at nothing to get what they want.

The fifth and final book I’ve picked to choose for this feature is one that’s not out until January so it can be pre-ordered to receive as a late Christmas present or earlier birthday present, The Winter Folly by Lulu Taylor http://amzn.to/17HMIwX



In this house there are many secrets…
It is 1965 and young Alexandra Crewe obediently marries the man her father has selected for her. But very soon both she and her husband Laurence realize that their marriage is a disaster. When real love finds Alexandra, plucking her out of her unhappy existence, she is powerless to resist. Her home becomes Fort Stirling, a beautiful Dorset castle, but Alexandra fears that there will be a price to pay for this wonderful new life. When tragedy strikes, it seems that her punishment has come, and there is only one way she can atone for her sins…

In the present day, Delilah Young is the second wife of John Stirling and the new chatelaine of Fort Stirling. The house seems to be a sad one and Delilah hopes to fill it with life and happiness. But when she attempts to heal the heartbreak in John’s life, it seems that the forces of the past might be too strong for her. Why does John have such a hatred for the old folly on the hill, and what happened to his mother when she vanished from his life? As Delilah searches for the truth, she realizes that perhaps some secrets are better left buried...

I’m sure I’ll probably do a blog post on what I did actually receive for Christmas so hopefully one or two of these will be featured!

Blog: http://shazsbookboudoir.blogspot.co.uk/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Shazs-Book-Blog/321640731239228
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ShazsBookBlog

Doubting Abbey

Swapping downstairs for upstairs… How hard can it be!?


Look up the phrase ordinary girl and you’ll see a picture of me, Gemma Goodwin – I only look half-decent after applying the entire contents of my make-up bag, and my dating track-record includes a man who treated me to dinner…at a kebab shop. No joke!


The only extraordinary thing about me is that I look EXACTLY like my BFF, Abbey Croxley. Oh, and that for reasons I can’t explain, I’ve agreed to swap identities and pretend be her to star in the TV show about her aristocratic family’s country estate, Million Dollar Mansion.
So now it’s not just my tan I’m faking – it’s Kate Middleton style demure hemlines and lady-like manners too. And amongst the hundreds of fusty etiquette rules I’m trying to cram into my head, there are two I really must remember; 1) No-one can ever find out that I’m just Gemma, who’d be more at home in the servants quarters. And 2) There can be absolutely no flirting with Abbey’s dishy but buttoned-up cousin, Lord Edward.

Aaargh, this is going to be harder than I thought…

My opinion: I really liked the premise of this book and thought that it sounded different, so jumped at the chance when I was offered a review copy by the author!

Gemma is a very normal girl who has just lost her job at a pizza place and gets asked a huge favour by her best friend and flat mate Abbey. Abbey asks Gemma to stand in for her and take part in a reality show being filmed at her uncle's stately home. But by standing in, she also has to pretend to be Abbey and somehow convince everyone that she is from an upper class family and has attended finishing school, rather than being from a more humble working class background with a love for fake tan, make up and chicken fillets! When Gemma arrives it seems like an even harder job when she meets Abbey's very straightlaced (and hot!) cousin Edward.

This is a great idea for a book and mixes the UK's love for reality TV and the more sombre Downton Abbey! The characters in the book are really loveable and get even more so as you know more about them. I particularly liked reading Edward's blog posts for the show to get his view on the whole charade and I liked how Gemma adapted so well to this new way of life. The only negatives about this book for me were that I was expecting a more Christmassy book from the cover and it is only a small feature at the end of the book, and at times I felt like the book was losing pace a little, although this didn't stop me wanting to read on.

I would definitely recommend this book as a fun read, and would definitely read more from the author, and would like to read more about the characters.

My rating: Four stars!

I was sent a review copy of this book in return for an honest review

Christmas Carol

One winter wedding, two happy couples, three ex-boyfriends. And a very uncomfortable weekend.

Carol hates Christmas. Being recently dumped, she’s not crazy about weddings either. So her sister Marley’s nuptials, over the Christmas weekend, are making her positively Scrooge-like. When she arrives at the stately home in rural Scotland to find her three ex-boyfriends in attendance, Carol has no choice but to face her ghosts to discover what really happened in those relationships, learning a lot about herself in the process. As the snow falls outside and the fire crackles in the hearth, might one of the wedding guests become the harbinger of Christmases to come?

This wickedly funny re-imagining of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol will warm the cockles of even the coldest heart.

My opinion: This book is the next installment in my binge read of all things Christmassy!

In this book we follow Carol as she travels to Scotland for her sister Marley's wedding to her soul mates. What her family have neglected to tell her is that three of her ex boyfriends have been invited and when she finds out, she is not best pleased! The story that ensues is Carol's journey from workaholic to a more relaxed version of herself.

This book is a fairly short 100 or so pages and is a light, quick read. It was enjoyable and well paced, although I didn't pick up on the A Christmas Carol references until I just reread the blurb!! I'm sure that is more me being ditsy than the fault of the author!

This was a great standalone story and was very heartwarming. This was the first book I have read by the author and will definitely read more!

My rating: A festive four stars

Xmas Wishlist - Kirsty @ Love of a Good Book

Friends often scream out 'No way. you don't need anymore books!' When they see my Christmas list.
But as any bookworm will tell you, there is no such thing as too many books!

And this Christmas is no exception:

I'm very lucky to be sent books before they are released, so for Christmas I'm asking for books people love and have read time and time again.

Here are some on my list:

I keep hearing wonderful things about 'The Perks of Being a Wallflower' from Laura http://shelovestoread.weebly.com/
I'm really excited about reading the book that Laura found life changing.

Megan from http://readinginthesunshine.wordpress.com/ has recommended 'The Time Travellers Wife' now I've seen the film of this but I've been told the book is amazing.

Victoria from https://victorialovesbooks.wordpress.com/ loves 'The Lady of Hay' and has highly recommended this to me.
And I mentioned recently on my blog http://theloveofagoodbook.wordpress.com/ that I've not read any Jane Austen and I find this something I need to rectify, so I am also going to ask for Pride and Prejudice.

Now I've all these lovely new books on my list, I couldn't imagine anything better to carry them in other than a Cambridge Satchel
https://www.cambridgesatchel.com/collections/colour/pinks/
My particular favourites are the pink and brown colours.

The thing about being a bookworm is that books can come in many forms and I love this book charm to add to my Pandora bracelet
http://www.pandora.net/en-gb/explore/products/charms/791109

Im obsessed with books, reading them, touching them and pictures of them so when I saw this, I just fell in love.
How gorgeous is this skirt, it has my dream library on it!
https://www.thehunt.com/the-hunt/EBrKk4-beauty-and-the-beast-library-skirt

Since I probably won't be able to wear the skirt until it's sunny, I'm going to ask for a nice snuggly hoodie and this one seems highly appropriate http://www.zazzle.co.uk/funny_i_need_more_books_t_shirt-235759418099397237

And finally since it's Christmas, I wouldn't mind discovering this hot book-boy under the mistletoe!





Have a fantastic Christmas all!
Kirsty

@loveofagoodbook
@minionsofbooks

Xmas Wishlist - Laura @ Laura's Little Book Blog

Ooh I love making Christmas wishlists, especially book related ones. Hopefully I won’t get too carried away!





1. Bookcase

OK so this is a big present, but I desperately, desperately need one. Currently my books on all in pile in the corner of my room, so definitely need something to show them off in. I am still undecided exactly which one I want though.





2. The Wild Girl by Kate Forsyth

I love the cover of this book, it is so pretty and I love the colours. This is the story behind the story of The Brothers Grimm and I love anything fairytale esque, so this is definitely on my wishlist.





3. Cupcakes at Carringtons by Alexandra Brown

Yes I know, I’m probably one of the few people yet to read the Carringtons series, but you know being a bookworm with millions of other books, I just have not managed to get round to reading it. So I shall be asking for this lovely book this year, but will wait until Christmas next year to read the Christmas one as don’t like reading Christmas books after Christmas.





4. The Flavours of Love by Dorothy Koomson

This story has definitely peaked my interest. The cover is deceiving, as it looks like quite an innocent book, but it involves coping with a husband’s murder, the killer claiming that he is innocent and a devastating confession that could destroy the family. Definitely on my wish list!





5. I Capture the Castle by Dodie Smith

This book has caught my eye for a number of reasons. One the cover (I like the vintage one), two the title, it just sounds magical and three it is one of J.K Rowling’s favourite books. Sold!





6. Teardrop by Lauren Kate

Last but my no means least is Teardrop. This is a new series by Lauren Kate and I absolutely love the cover! I still like to read young adult novels as they just seem to work better when they are fantasy focused, and this one sounds intriguing.

So there is my book related wishlist. I could go on, but then I would be coming across as greedy and I don’t want that! Thank you to the lovely Sheli for featuring me on her lovely blog.

You can find me:

On Twitter: @Midnightstar3

On my Blog: www.lauraslittlebookblog.co.uk

Xmas Wishlist - Ems @ Afternoon Bookery

1. Book quote mug - this last year has seen my love for books grow, and rekindle what was once a grand love affair, this sums up my feelings, and well I need something for the copious tea I get through?





2.I Capture the Castle hardback - this is a beautiful edition, I never read this book as a child, but I admit I saw it in Waterstones and ever since I have fallen in love and clearly need this in my life, stat.





3. Mary Poppins hardback - likewise, I spied this and the cover is beautiful I dont recall ever reading the book only ever watching the film but I cant turn down something as beautiful as this.

4. Sherlock Holmes Cluedo - this is another thing that has taken my fancy this year, I mean it's like the best show into one of my favourite games, that been said I'm sure I would only play it christmas day and that be it, but indulge me?

They are the main things im hankering after on my book life this year - thankyou for having me!! :)
you can find me at; www.afternoonbookery.blogspot.com or @afternoonbooker

Xmas Wishlist - Zoe @ The Book Lovers

Hey everyone!

For those who don't know me, I'm Zoe and own my own blog over at The Book Lovers. Today, I'll be letting you know which books I am excited to be getting this Christmas – courtesy of myself buying them for me!

For people that know me, you know that my kindle is my baby and that if I want an ebook, I just go to Amazon and 1-Click it...I admit, I am a 1-Click addict and my wages are mostly spent on me not understanding a little thing called 'Savings', but books are technically savings to me ;)

My parents don't buy me books for Christmas and that is mainly down to me. Ever since I had a kindle, ebooks are just instantaneous. If I want a new book, I'll go search for one on Amazon and download it; if I want the paperback of that book, well it's either not available or I have to wait months for it to become available. I have no patience – hence why I dont ask for books for Christmas.

Also I only buy the paperback copies of books that are a favourite of mine....and despite not receiving books from the 'rents, my grandparents HAVE to buy me one every year so this year I had decided that they can buy me The Edge OF Never – J.A Redmerski...This is MY favourite book and I have yet to purchase it, so what better way than opening it up from my grandparents on Chrsitmas day?

The three books that I am excited for this month, for myself to buy as a present are:

1) The Sweetest Game (#3)– J. Sterling
“It’s one hell of a sledgehammer to the chest when your baseball career comes to an end. It’s like you finally realize that baseball never loved you back. All the sleepless nights, the hours spent at the gym trying to stay fit, the conditioning, the training, the mental preparation, the holiday’s missed, the birthday’s passed, the memories you didn’t get to make with your family…all for what? It’s not like baseball lost any sleep over you. She didn’t stay awake for nights on end trying to figure out how to make you a better player. She didn’t care. Baseball’s a business. A sport. A game. And as much as my entire life has been wrapped up in it, it’s time to let it go.”
- Jack Carter

Out on Christmas day!

2) A Beautiful Wedding (#2.5)– Jamie McGuire
You know that Abby Abernathy unexpectedly became Mrs. Maddox. But what do you really know?

Why did Abby pop the question?
What secrets were shared before the ceremony?
Where did they spend their wedding night?
Who else knew about it . . . and didn’t tell?

Everything about Abby and Travis’s elopement was top-secret . . . until now. Fans of Beautiful Disaster and Walking Disaster will get all of their questions answered in this whirlwind tale of the wedding day (and night!)—and as with all good stories, this one will definitely have been worth the wait.

Out the 10th December

3) Castle Hill – Samantha Young
Braden Carmichael never imagined he’d fall as hard and as fast as he did for Jocelyn Butler. He also could not have anticipated how difficult it would be to convince her to give in to love. But now that he has her, he’s never letting go. He’s got it all planned—the passionate proposal, the dream wedding, the sexy Hawaiian honeymoon—even the perfect family they’ll start.

After trying to flee from her painful past, Joss is finally allowing herself to embrace the future. But when things start moving faster than she anticipated, she finds herself panicking over something Braden can’t understand. After everything they’ve been through, Joss is sure that their love can survive even her worst fears. But, this time, she may push Braden too far—and risk losing everything all over again…

Out 3rd December


What are the books you are most excited about this christmas?

My Xmas Wishlist

Well December is here once again! So to celebrate the festive season here at Sheli Reads I am running a Christmassy feature in the run up to the big day where lots of lovely guest posters will be telling us what bookish treats and goodies that they are hoping for from Santa this year!

So to start us off, I am posting my bookish xmas wishlist!

Something Borrowed, Someone Dead by M. C. Beaton



I'm hoping that Santa will bring me the latest Agatha Raisin book! Over the last two years I have made my way through the other 23 (I think!) books in the series and it has become a guilty pleasure which is in the same category as Midsomer Murders for me. I think Agatha Raisin books are becoming a staple Christmas present for me, like the Beano annual! This is the blurb:

Gloria French was a jolly widow with dyed blonde hair, a raucous laugh and rosy cheeks. When she first moved from London to the charming Cotswolds hills, she was heartily welcomed.  She seemed a do-gooder par excellence, raising funds for the church and caring for the elderly.  But she had a nasty habit of borrowing things and not giving them back, just small things, a teapot here, a set of silverware there.  So it's quite the shock when she is found dead, murdered by a poisoned bottle of elderberry wine.  Afraid the murder will be a blight on the small town, Parish councillor, Jerry Tarrant, hires private detective Agatha Raisin to track down the murderer.

But the village is secretive and the residents resent Agatha's investigation. Of course that doesn't stop the ever-persistent Agatha from investigating and sticking her nose where no one wants it—especially as the suspect list grows. And, as if it isn't enough that Agatha's ex has reentered the picture, the murderer is now targeting Agatha!

With M.C. Beaton's Something Borrowed, Someone Dead  the bossy, vain, and absolutely irresistible, Agatha Raisin continues to be a fan favorite.

I have also had my eye on this canvas book bag for ages. http://www.theliterarygiftcompany.com/i-capture-the-castle---dodie-smith---canvas-shopper-1056-p.asp



I read I Capture the Castle a few years ago and absolutely loved it! I've been tempted by this bag ever since :-)

As no full on reading session is complete without a cup of tea, I'd also like this mug: http://www.theliterarygiftcompany.com/go-away-im-reading-bone-china-mug-1185-p.asp

Just in case anyone was in any doubt about what I was doing, I think the message is nice and clear!

Lastly, I'd love to have a proper study/library space!



Somewhere like this would be amazing! I have bookshelves, a small desk and an armchair in our box room, but it would be amazing to have a space like this where I could work, write, read and relax. I'm not sure Santa will fit this in his sack (or our house) though! Maybe one day ...

What bookish goodies would you like Santa to bring you this year?

 

Christmas at the Beach Cafe

A Christmas short story from bestselling author Lucy Diamond, revisiting her Beach Café characters.

After a hectic summer running her beach café in Cornwall, Evie Flynn is looking forward to her first Christmas with new boyfriend Ed – she’s determined that it’s going to be the most perfectly romantic one ever. Cosy nights in front of the fire, spicy mulled wine, mince pies . . . what’s not to love? But the peace is shattered when Ed’s ex suddenly gets in touch again, and then some unexpected guests arrive: Ed’s surly brother Jake and Evie’s heartbroken best friend Amber. Add in the stress of trying to finish her very own recipe book, snow blizzards and family dramas and Evie’s Christmas starts to look as if it’ll be a total turkey. Will any of her festive wishes come true . . . or is this Christmas just a recipe for disaster?

An absolute Christmas cracker from Lucy Diamond, bestselling author of The Beach Café and Me And Mr Jones. This novella is the perfect present for anyone who loves women’s fiction, heartwarming stories and the festive season!

My opinion: I have wanted to read The Beach Café now for a while, but haven't got around to it yet due to the monster size of my TBR pile. You may have noticed that I have been on a bit of a Christmas book reading spree recently, so what better excuse to read this festive novella?!

Evie is gearing up for her first Christmas since inheriting the Beach Café from her aunt earlier in the year. She has lots of plans for decorating the café, producing a recipe book for the locals who have supported her, and having lots of cosy romantic evenings with her boyfriend Ed. But unfortunately a few unannounced guests, unexpected weather and other stresses it looks like Christmas is going to turn out to be a disaster.

I really enjoyed this book and it makes me want to read The Beach Café even more now! I know I've done it a bit backwards by reading this novella first, but I feel like I've got to know the characters enough to ensure that reading the full novel will be time well invested!

This is a lovely Christmassy short story that was a great quick read in between books. It was a well contained story that works well as a standalone even if you haven't read the first book (like me!), and has some great characters that I am looking forward to getting to know better.

My rating: A festive four stars!

The Parisian Christmas Bake Off

Welcome to the most celebrated patisserie competition in Paris – ready, steady, bake!

Watching snowflakes settle on the Eiffel Tower, Rachel Smithson’s cosy English village feels very far way – as, thankfully, does her commitment-phobic ex, probably already kissing someone else under the mistletoe. But Rachel hasn’t come to Paris to mope she’s come to bake. Hard.

Because the search for Paris’s next patisserie apprentice is about to begin! And super-chef judge Henri Salernes is an infamously tough cookie. But Rachel isn’t about to let her confidence (or pastry) crumble. She’s got one week, mounds of melt-in-the-mouth macaroons and towers of perfect profiteroles to prove that she really is a star baker.

As well as clouds of flour, and wafts of chocolate and cinnamon, there’s definitely a touch of Christmas magic in the air… Rachel hasn’t come to Paris looking for a fairy-tale romance, but the city of love might gift-wrap her one anyway…

Not even a dusting of icing sugar could make The Parisian Christmas Bake-Off a more perfect Christmas treat!

My opinion: I really liked the look of this book. What's not to like about Christmas, Paris and baking?!

Rachel is a primary school teacher who has a real talent for baking, but due to the memories it evokes, she has kept the talent, and her past, buried away. When her friends arrange for her to join an exclusive competition in Paris to win an apprenticeship with a top pastry chef, she not only had to let her talent shine through, but also face her past.

I really enjoyed this book. It was a mix of cake, Paris, romance and coming to terms with things that are in the past, and it worked so well. It was well paced, well written and had some great characters. I'll definitely read more of Jenny's books and I hope she writes more about Rachel's life after returning to the UK.

I'd definitely recommend this book as a great Christmas read that will leave you feeling warm inside, and also very hungry!

My rating: A fab four stars

I was sent a copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Christmas at Carrington's

A deliciously indulgent read and the follow up to Cupcakes at Carrington’s. Set in Carrington’s Department Store this is perfect for fans of Jenny Colgan.

Carrington’s Department store is thrown into a spin when the staff learn that a hot new reality TV show is to be filmed in-store, featuring the formidable retail guru, Kelly Cooper. Georgie Hart, in charge of Luxury Handbags, is reluctant, but quickly realises that the show could give Carrington’s a new lease of life. With Christmas around the corner, she’s also hoping that the season will deliver her the perfect Christmas present, in the form of Tom, the store’s dishy boss.

When the film crew arrive, things start to go wrong. One of Tom’s old flames, Zara, is working on the show and then, to top things off, Tom and Zara are sent off to Paris and New York for a spot of extra filming. When Georgie settles down in front of the box to watch the first show, worse it to come – Georgie is shown in a far from flattering light and she is horrified to learn what Tom has been up to.

Georgie fears this is turning out to be the worst Christmas ever, but Santa might have a got a little surprise in store for her stocking this year – but she’ll just have to wait until Christmas to find out!

My opinion: Alexandra Brown has done it again!

I recently read Cupcakes at Carrington's and the novella Me and Mr Carrington and absolutely loved both of them. So when this little beauty plopped through my letterbox I couldn't wait to read it.

We catch up with our favourite characters a few months after where we left off. Georgie is still loving Carrington's (and Mr Carrington), Sam is enjoying life as a newly wed and Eddie is as fabulous as ever! One evening when Georgie settles down to indulge in a bit of crap tv, she finds that she is on it and that a pilot of a new reality show has been filmed at Carrington's without her knowledge. And the footage of her dancing along to Beyoncé ends up on YouTube. And even worse than that, Tom kept the filming a secret from her.

The show gets picked up and Georgie becomes a star along with the rest of the "cast" at Carrington's and soon finds herself being recognised on the bus and even getting papped while out and about. Because of an argument with Tom about the filming, they aren't speaking, but she soon learns what he's up to when the show is broadcast. And more importantly, who he is with.

I absolutely devoured this book and loved every word! And speaking of devouring, all of the mentions of red velvet cupcakes meant that I accidentally ended up baking three dozen of them!

I really love the characters, especially Georgie, and the way that Alexandra is able to drag you into the story and keep it really well paced is brilliant. I really liked reading more about Georgie's dad and their improving relationship, and thinking about Carrington's all trimmed up for Christmas reminded me of going to visit Santa's grotto in my local department store as a child.

I'd definitely recommend it and think it'd make a fab Christmas present! The cover is so pretty too! The next book in the series is due in 2014 and I'm already looking forward to it!

My rating: A festive five stars!

I was sent an advance copy of this book by the publisher in exchange for an honest review

Cover reveal: The Property of a Gentleman

The Property of a Gentleman by Catherine Gaskin - Published 5th December 2013
A poignant, thrilling tale, full of history, intrigue and romance.

Shortly after her mother's death in a Swiss plane crash, Jo Roswell is sent from the London auction house where she works to the remote Thirlbeck – stately home of the Earl of Askew. Jo's task is to evaluate the house's contents for a sale, but she soon finds herself drawn into the complex lives of Thirlbeck's inhabitants, each with their own secrets and desires.

Jo is absorbed by the tragic story of The Spanish Lady, whose young life was cut short at Thirlbeck many centuries earlier. She also encounters La Española, the brilliant diamond which, according to legend, brings disaster to all who try to possess it. And she is shocked to learn of her own mother's connection to Thirlbeck.

Meet the residents of Thirlbeck

Robert Birkett, the Earl of Askew: returning to Thirlbeck after many years abroad, a decorated war hero who also spent time in prison after a fatal car accident for which he was blamed.

Carlota, the Spanish Condesa: the Earl's sophisticated companion, who yearns to leave the cold of Cumberland for the warmth of the Mediterranean sun.

Nat Birkett: the local farmer, and single father of two young boys, who is the reluctant heir to Thirlbeck. His passion is for the land rather than titles and possessions.

Gerald Stanton: Jo's wise mentor and friend, who is like a father to her.

George Tolson: the brooding keeper of Thirlbeck, who jealously guards it from unwelcome strangers.

Jessica Tolson: George's intelligent but fragile granddaughter, who must be protected from herself.

Jo will struggle with difficult discoveries as she unlocks the puzzles which link Thirlbeck's past and present residents.

About Catherine Gaskin
Catherine Gaskin's own life story reads like a novel. Born in Ireland and raised in Australia, she studied music at the conservatorium in Sydney, before becoming a bestselling author at the age of just seventeen. After moving to London she met her future husband, a US TV executive, on a blind date. The couple lived in Manhattan for ten years, before moving to the Virgin Islands, followed by Ireland, and then the Isle of Man. After her husband's death, Catherine returned to Australia where she spent the rest of her life.

During her lifetime Catherine Gaskin's books sold over 40 million copies worldwide, and she was known as “The Queen of Storytellers” and “The Girl with the Golden Pen.”

North Pole Reform School

Mistletoe Bell hates Christmas. So would you if you had a name like hers. Her Christmas-mad parents make the festive season last all year, and with another Christmas looming, Mis doesn’t think she can take any more. After her carelessness causes an accident at school, it seems like things can’t get any worse.

Then she wakes up to find The Ghost of Christmases Ruined in her bedroom.

She is taken to the North Pole, to a reform school run by elves determined to make her love Christmas. Stuck in a misfit group of fellow Christmas-haters with a motley crew of the weird and even weirder, watched over by elves day and night, she doesn’t expect to meet cute and funny Luke, who is hiding a vulnerable side beneath his sarcastic exterior. She doesn’t expect to fall in love with him.

But all is not as it should be at the North Pole. A certain Mr Claus is making the elves’ lives a misery, and pretty soon Mistletoe and Luke are doing more than just learning to like Christmas.

A YA romantic comedy in which Santa is the bad guy, teaching reindeer to fly is on the curriculum, and zombies have a fondness for Christmas music.
-
Suitable for older teens and upwards due to bad language.

My opinion: North Pole Reform School is the latest book from the very lovely Jaimie Admans, and unsurprisingly is a Christmas book!

This time we are transported to the North Pole with Mistletoe Bell after she ruins the Christmas of others. A purple moose comes in the middle of the night to whisk Mis away, and when she wakes up she's with a group of people at the North Pole who are all there to be reformed.

The group of Christmas ruiners that she joins includes a duck phobic, a boy who thinks he's dead, the awful Joe and the very lovely Luke. They are all there for a reason, and in order to graduate they must learn why Christmas is meaningful to others. This must be fine whilst surrounded by elves, surviving on a diet of candy canes and mince pies, listening to constant Christmas songs and that even before we mention the mean Santa and North Pole zombies!

This book was really fun and I really enjoyed reading it. The detail surrounding the North Pole is amazing and Jaimie must have done a lot of Christmassy research! The story is a good mix of fun and some more serious messages. It did make me think about how Christmas means different things to different people, and how magical it can be to those with children.

NPRS is a good mix of YA with fantasy and a bit of romance thrown in. A great bit of light relief to get you in a Christmassy mood!

I will be taking part in the NPRS blog tour on 12th December with a guest post from Jaimie!

My rating: A festive four stars!

I was sent a copy of the book by the author in exchange for an honest review

Last Christmas

For Lucy, the best Christmas present is forgetting the past.

Eager to banish the ghost of Christmas past – when her boyfriend dumped her on the streets of Paris – Lucy is determined to make this the best Christmas ever. She rallies friends and family for an epic celebration that just happens to fall on the same day as her ex’s festive wedding. Furious at how she’s been treated, Lucy can’t help relishing the party v wedding smackdown.

But when the wedding is threatened and only Lucy can help, can she find the spirit inside to save the day, or will this Christmas be even more disastrous than the last?

My opinion: I always look forward to Talli Roland's new books, but particularly her Christmas novellas. Miracle at the Museum of Broken Hearts was the book that inspired me to get a kindle, and was the first book I downloaded and read on it!

Christmas time is a bad time for Lucy this year as it's the anniversary of her humiliation when her long term boyfriend dumped her in Paris after she proposed to him. After a year of moping, Lucy bumps into her ex and his new fiancée and tells them that she just happens to be hosting the party of the year on Christmas Day. Which also happens to be their wedding day.

So Lucy now needs to plan a party that will go head to head with the wedding and bring her back from her break up blues! Although, she never expected to be the one who could save her ex and his bride from a wedding disaster...

I devoured this novella in one sitting and it was a great start to my Christmas reading. I love Talli's writing anyway, and I'm glad to say that it just gets better. I hope the Christmas novellas keep coming every year, and we get to read Talli's next novel, The No Kids Club very soon!

My rating: A festive five stars!

The One Plus One

One single mum
With two jobs and two children, Jess Thomas does her best day after day. But it's hard on your own. And sometimes you take risks you shouldn't. Because you have to . . .

One chaotic family
Jess's gifted, quirky daughter Tanzie is brilliant with numbers, but without a helping hand she'll never get the chance to shine. And Nicky, Jess's teenage stepson, can't fight the bullies alone.
Sometimes Jess feels like they're sinking . . .

One handsome stranger
Into their lives comes Ed Nicholls, a man whose life is in chaos, and who is running from a deeply uncertain future. But he has time on his hands. He knows what it's like to be lonely. And he wants to help . . .

One unexpected love story
The One Plus One is a captivating and unconventional romance from Jojo Moyes about two lost souls meeting in the most unlikely circumstances.

My opinion: When I was offered this book to read and review by Lovereading I jumped at the chance as I really liked the sound of it. I am probably one of the few who didn't like Me Before You, but thought this one sounded really promising.

The book is split to give us an insight into the lives of four characters, Jess, Tanzie, Ed and Nicky. Jess is a single mother who was left by her "depressed" husband so that he can recuperate with his mother, leaving her working two jobs and struggling financially to bring up her two children, Tanzie and Nicky. Nicky is actually her stepson, but she took him in and brings him up as her own, while he struggles with being a teenager and those who can't accept him for being different. Tanzie is mathematical genius who has been offered a coveted place at a local private school, but despite the hefty scholarship, her mother would really struggle to raise the fees. Ed is a rich businessman who gets into a spot of trouble and ends up hiding out at his holiday home, which is cleaned by Jess.

The family end up on a road trip so that Tanzie can compete in a maths competition that could potentially change her life.

The story is well written and intricately woven together around our four main characters. The writing style is friendly, and I felt that I wanted to read on from the first page. My one criticism is that, for me, I felt that the book was a little slow in places, but not so much so that I didn't want to carry on.

I'd recommend the book, and get ready to feel very involved with the lives of the characters!

My rating: Four stars

I received an advance copy of this book from Lovereading in exchange for an honest review

Tuesdays at the Teacup Club

A lot can change in a year . . .

The children's books Jenny writes and illustrates from her countryside studio are doing well, and after a lifetime of looking after everyone else, she's finally putting herself first. Meanwhile, Maggie's ordered world is thrown into chaos when her baby son Leo arrives. Candlelit baths have made way for endless night feeds, and she and partner Owen are struggling to find any time for themselves. It's been a long year of financial sacrifice, but working-mum Alison has fulfilled her dream at last - she is now the proud co-owner of a café and art gallery.

But when Alison's happiness is threatened and news from home shocks Jenny back to reality, the women must band together. Suddenly their friendship is more important than ever.

In this digital-exclusive short story, Vanessa Greene revisits the characters we first fell in love with in The Vintage Teacup Club. Appealing to both new and old fans, this is a real treat for anyone who enjoys warm-hearted and sincere storytelling - and it's best enjoyed with a nice cup of tea.

My opinion: I have had The Vintage Teacup Club sat on my TBR for a while, and when I spotted this novella I thought it would be a good way to get to know the characters (even though it is a follow on to TVTC).

The novella had sections on each one of the friends and we follow their lives individually, but get to see how they interact with one another. I have to say I was a bit disappointed with the actual story and felt that there wasn't much substance there. I know that it was a very short story, but it have read plenty of novellas that have really grabbed me, and unfortunately this wasn't one of them.

Saying that, I thought that the characters were well developed, but unfortunately I didn't feel like I really cared about them.

It was a pleasant enough quick read, but sadly hasn't inspired me to read TVTC. I just think that this series isn't for me.

My rating: Three stars

Solo Pass

A dark yet often funny novel narrated by a man who, for the past two months, has been a patient at a New York City mental ward. Having suffered a breakdown—due to his shattered marriage and an irrational fear of fading away as a human—he now finds himself caught between two worlds, neither of which is a place of comfort or fulfillment: the world of the ward, where abnormality and an odd sort of freedom reign, and the outside world, where convention and restrictive behavior rule. Finally on his way to becoming reasonably “normal” again, he requests and is granted a “solo pass,” which allows him to leave the (locked) ward for several hours and visit the city, with the promise that he will return to the hospital by evening.

As he prepares for his excursion, we get a picture of the ward he will temporarily leave behind—the staff and the patients, notably Mandy Reid, a schizophrenic and nymphomaniac who has become his closest friend there. Solo Pass is an unsettling satire that depicts, with inverted logic, the difficulties of madness and normalcy.

My opinion: I requested this book from Netgalley as it seemed to be right up my street. And I was not disappointed.

We follow the main character as he embarks on a days release from the mental ward where he is currently staying following a breakdown. We get to meet a variety of characters on the ward, plan his journey with him and get out onto the mean streets of New York. More importantly, we get to feel his feelings, ride the emotional rollercoaster that he does and understand what caused the breakdown and irrational thoughts.

I really enjoyed this book. I thought it was sensitively handled without feeling as if it was walking on eggshells and gave a real insight into the irrational thoughts that often accompany a range of mental illnesses. Some parts of the book were really quite funny and others were heartbreakingly sad. The characters were all very human and parts of the storyline kept me guessing.

I will definitely seek out more from this author.

My rating: Four stars.

Original review at Reading in Progress

Author spotlight: Janice G Ross

How far would you go for love?

How far would you go? Would you throw caution to the wind? Set aside common sense? Part completely with doubt? Give all possessions away? Forget what once was? Would you be willing to do it all for love? How far would you go for love?

In Jumping Ship, the pre-release novella to the Island Hopping series, we learn exactly how far Petrina Dugal would go for the sake of love. Pet, as the twenty-something woman is known, is tied to a miserable marriage. It’s all that she’s ever known. Pet never knew love, never expected love, never felt love, never inhaled love and most certainly never tasted love. And then love walked into her door, right in front of her brutish husband.

Pet’s love is mysterious and enticing, rolled up in visual perfection. Michael Chen instantly captures ever ounce of emotion that Pet had bottled up. Pet and her Mikey love with every ounce of their being, until circumstances become crucial. They make a decision that what they have created is much more important than any promise that ever existed beforehand. And to show how far they would go for love, Pet and Mikey flee.

Pet and Mikey’s story is only a portion of the entire Island Hopping series, but significant nonetheless.


Excerpt

Pet gazed into his eyes and immediately felt relieved. In that moment, Roger didn’t matter. More important to the ill-treated woman was the savior at her side. She hunched forward. Roger could only see her back if he were to look over. She was able to position herself just right and able to tilt subtly into her suitor. Pet would tip closer and pull back, drift in and then out. She marveled in his perfection. Mikey’s arms were veiny and muscular. The slightest flinch revealed athletic splendor. Her mouth fell open, as she unknowingly marked him. When her gaze reached his lips, she tensed up and huffed. Faith had it so that he even had the urge to bite down on his bottom lip at the time. And she noticed. Boy, did she notice.


Synopsis

The year was nineteen seventy-five. Pregnant seamstress, Petrina Dugal, became a runaway at the age of twenty-six. She ran away from a brutish husband, Roger, and a well-loved South American home in Georgetown, Guyana; at the heart of her rebellion – an enigmatic lover named Michael Chen. Pet and Mikey, as they became affectionately known, allowed love to blossom in front of her police officer husband and an intrusive community. Were they not aware of the dangers? Or did the pursuit of love trump obligations?

Pet and Mikey’s journey to their new life took them through a multitude of the Caribbean’s treasure trove of islands – Antigua, Martinique, Barbados, Grenada, Trinidad & Tobago, and Saint Lucia. More than a month later their voyage landed them at JFK airport, in New York USA. And they disappeared, as though their existence was a myth. During this time, barren couple, Pearl and Edward Riley stumbled upon a newborn baby girl. Her cries could only be heard by a true mother, which Pearl immediately became. Bundled up with their new child, they discovered a parcel of artifacts and a scribbled note that read: Sakkara.

Sakkara Riley grew up with two loving parents – adoptive parents to be exact. She never knew the circumstances surrounding her discovery, until the age of sixteen. The personal artifacts that were handed over had haunted her from that point on. After eight more years, including much research and probing, she was given the opportunity to begin her journey of self-discovery.

“Jumping Ship” provides the introduction to Sakkara’s attempts to commune with her true heritage.

The second installation in the series, Island Hopping: Trinidad & Tobago is due out the 14th of February.









Janice G. Ross’s Bio

Janice G. Ross was born in Guyana, South America and migrated to the USA in 1980. She is an author. She enjoys writing about social issues and personal experiences. Her debut release was entitled Damaged Girls. She uses the three books in that series to detail the effects of different forms of abuse, discussing issues that are known to be taboo. Her latest release, Jumping Ship, is a dedication to her country of birth and an introductory novella to the Island Hopping Series – due out in 2014. It’s poised to be a colorful and emotional experience of life, love and family.
Janice enjoys reading. And is drawn to stories with distinct characters that she can love or hate, characters she can form alliances with or characters that she can swear off and despise. She is also weak for a good cultural tale, preferably in the form of historical fiction. Janice loves to be taken off guard by clever language and settings. Janice is also a devout supporter and promoter of other authors through social media. She hosts a weekly show, Cultural Cocktails, on the largest social radio network, Blog Talk Radio.

A Cottage by the Sea

Grace has been best friends with Ella and Flick since university. The late-night chats, shared heartaches and good times have created a bond that has stood the test of time. Now in their thirties, Grace is always a bit disappointed about how little time they get to spend together, so when Ella invites them all to stay for a week in her cottage in South Wales, Grace jumps at the chance to see her old friends. She also hopes that the change in pace will help her reconnect with her husband, Harry. Unfortunately for her, Harry isn't as enamoured with Cwtch Cottage as she is. Then Flick arrives; loveable, bubbly Flick, accompanied by the handsome and charming Noah, and suddenly the week ahead looks as though it may be even more confusing for all the residents of Cwtch Cottage.

My opinion: I'm just going to come out and say it. I loved this book! This book is the first Carole Matthews book I have read and I will definitely be reading more. My TBR pile is about to grow again!!

The book is about three friends and their partners who spend a week together at Ella's cottage in Pembrokeshire that she inherited from her parents. They've been friends since uni, but don't see each other too often any more because of their busy lives so the holiday was a chance got then to catch up and have some fun together. As the week goes on we see that there are cracks in each one of their relationships, but each girl is trying to smooth things over as best they can and hope that the sea air will heal all!

The fact that this book is set in Pembrokeshire is a massive draw for me. It's where I had my holidays as a child, and where my partner and I have stayed and gone exploring countless times over the years. The book describes the area beautifully, and even mentions our favourite beach, Barafundle! I have put a picture of it at the bottom of the review to share how gorgeous it is!

Other than Pembrokeshire, I also loved the characters and the way this book was constructed. Because it was only set over the period of a week, it could gave dragged, but was really well paced, and meant we got to know the characters a little better. I particularly loved Grace who had gone through her life on a set path, always doing the right thing, and the lovely Noah seemed like such a genuinely nice guy. I love it when the writer makes you feel like you really know a character. Grace's husband Harry was a right bastard, but I liked that the writer implied it, but let me make up my own mind.

This book was so well written, and I really couldn't out it down! I just kept thinking "I'll just read one more chapter..."

A fantastic book, and I may have accidentally bought Calling Mrs Christmas by Carole Matthews too, so look out for a review of that one in the run up to Christmas!

My rating: A wonderful five stars!

Yours Truly

Your bum does not look big in that dress.

Mmm, it tastes delicious!

Of course you’re better looking than Jon Hamm.

Newly engaged Natalie Butterworth is an easy-going girl. She’ll do anything for a quiet life and if telling a few teensy white lies keeps her friends and family happy, then so what? It’s not like they’ll ever discover what she’s really thinking…

Until one night, thanks to a pub hypnotist, Natalie’s most private thoughts begin to bubble up and pop out of her mouth. Things get very messy indeed. Especially when some sticky home truths offend her fiancé.

Natalie must track down the hypnotist before the wedding is officially cancelled. So along with bad influence bestie Meg, Natalie finds herself in the Yorkshire Parish of Little Trooley - a small village bursting with big secrets, nosy old folk and intriguing Wellington-wearing men.

When the girls get stranded in the village with no means of escape and no way to break the hypnotist's spell, Natalie is forced to face the truths she has been avoiding her whole life...

My opinion: I've had this on my kindle got ages after being recommended it by my friend Jaimie. I finally got round to it though!

The story is about Natalie who is about to marry her awful fiancé Olly and gives in to her mum and sister's every whim. She accidentally gets hypnotised one evening and after that nothing is the same! Suddenly, rather than trying to keep everyone happy, Natalie starts speaking her mind and everything starts changing.

She tries to track down the hypnotist in a remote Yorkshire village, but ends up meeting lots of new people and becoming part of their community. At last Natalie starts to think about what she really wants, rather than everyone else around her!

I have to be honest and say that I wasn't sure about this book at the beginning because Natalie was such a walkover that she grated on me a bit. She didn't even say anything when her mum and sister chose her wedding dress for goodness sake! But I'm glad I persevered and got to see Natalie become stronger and more forceful and actually start to look after number one!

The book itself is well written and paced and some parts are hilariously funny! I will definitely go on to recommend this book to others as it is good fun, and has a bit of a girl power feeling to it when Natalie starts to speak her mind! I particularly liked the parts of the book in Little Trooley and hope Kirsty goes on to write more books with a village setting.

My rating: A Fab Four stars!