Hazel Walker
Reged: 02/12/2005
Posts: 25
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It's easy: just write a review of 100 words or less on any book and post it here in the forum, and if our books editors select it, you will win all the books featured on the Woman & Home books page that month.
Reviews must be original, of course. The value of the prize varies, depending on the books we feature, but is rarely less than £50.
Good luck!
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Dotty
member
Reged: 06/09/2006
Posts: 7
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To Kill a Mocking Bird by Harper Lee.
This is a beautifully written book set during the Depression in the southern states of America. It tells the story of the Finch family, and this is narrated by Scout the youngest of the two children of Atticus Finch, who is a lawyer.
The main story in the book is that of the trial of a negro for raping a white woman. Atticus defends him but of course, he is up against a lot of prejudice and the scales of justice are heavily laden against the negro.
As well, the book recounts the adventures of Scout and her brother, Jem, and particularly of their friendship with the recluse, Boo Radley.
Atticus is portrayed as a very wise man, who teaches his children about the ways of the world and of human nature. He is the sort of person one would want to turn to for advice as he always seems to know the right thing to do.
This is surely one of the best books I have ever read.
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RedSpirit
member
Reged: 29/09/2006
Posts: 4
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The Time Traveler’s Wife
by
Audrey Niffenegger
The remarkable love between Clare and Henry unfolds as they face complex challenges thrown at them by his genetic condition of time travelling. As they struggle with unpredictable journeys into both past and future the reader is drawn deeply into their lives. Written from both their perspectives it reflects the ordinary yet soulful quality of being in relationship with one you love with heartrending complications; What's it like to meet your husband when he thinks you’re meeting for the first time? How to make the painful decision of whether to have children? What to do with unwelcome knowledge from the future? How to cope with the uncontrollable nature and risks of the condition? The authors craft is in creating a story that can touch each of us as it intensely explores hope, longing, life, loss and ultimately love.
I was touched to my core reading this – I recommend you give yourself plenty of time to indulge in this book and space to cry, even my husband shed tears.
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waterbaby
member
Reged: 23/08/2006
Posts: 42
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Perfect Match by Jodi Picoult
Nina Frost's occupation as an Assistant District Attorney specialising in child abuse means she spends her days in court trying to protect her young victims and winning for them the satisfaction of their violators being sentenced. Thus she protects herself from getting too personally involved. However, when Nathaniel, her five year old son, drops the bombshell that he has been abused, Nina is sent reeling into the world of extreme protectiveness that only mothers can feel for their own children.
How far will Nina go to avenge this intrusion on her child's life?
I thought this book might have been a bit of a tricky subject but the reader gets so involved and can physically feel Nathaniel's own sorrow, plus his bewilderment at what is happening to his parents. This was the first book by this author that I have read but will delve into her others now.
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Janecaroll
member
Reged: 05/10/2006
Posts: 1
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The Tea House on Mulbery Street by Sharon Owens.
Penny and Daniel Stanley own Muldoon's Tea Rooms and the book follows the everyday life of them and their customers. We soon get to know the main characters, Brenda the artist, Sadie's sadness, Claire's battle with a past she can't let go and of course the Stanleys themselves. We quickly become drawn into their lives and those around them.
There is sadness, self discovery, a journey home, mouth-watering deserts and of course, a happy ending!
This is a feel good book to curl up with on a winters evening... Enjoy!
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suz
member
Reged: 05/10/2006
Posts: 3
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The Other Side of You by Sally Vickers
Psychoanalyst David McBride describes a series of consultations with a failed suicide, Elizabeth. A dry-as-dust case history? Not a bit of it. Sally Vickers' novel blossoms from prosaic beginnings. There are insights galore into the human condition, but these are delivered within the context of a passionate and multi-layered love story. By means of visits to Rome, and via a shared understanding of the life and works of Caravaggio, both David and Elizabeth discover ways in which their damaged lives may be changed.
This is a wonderful novel - a thought-provoking and entertaining read.
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suz
member
Reged: 05/10/2006
Posts: 3
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My apologies for incorrectly spelling Salley Vickers' name in my review. Here is a corrected version:
The Other Side of You by Salley Vickers
Psychoanalyst David McBride describes a series of consultations with a suicidal patient, Elizabeth. A dry-as-dust case history? Not a bit of it. Salley Vickers' novel blossoms from prosaic beginnings. There are insights galore into the human condition, but these are delivered within the context of a passionate and multi-layered love story. By means of visits to Rome, and via a shared understanding of the life and work of Caravaggio, both David and Elizabeth discover ways in which their damaged lives may be changed.
This is a wonderful novel - a thought-provoking and entertaining read.
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AlisonC
member
Reged: 08/10/2006
Posts: 1
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It is through the descriptive narration of this true story that we discover the true extent of the abuse that the author endured from her father during her childhood and as it continued as a adult. We are informed of what Jane tolerated before finding the strength to put an end to her abusive past and how she thought to protect herself and her children. This book is very moving and highly addictive as we embark on a journey of isolation and secrecy by entering a world that we would otherwise find hard to believe.
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Dotty
member
Reged: 06/09/2006
Posts: 7
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Judith Dunbar's parents emigrate with her little sister to live in Singapore and leave Judith behind to attend a boarding school, where she meets Loveday, an irrepressible, impetuous character. Loveday takes her to her family home at Nancherrow and Judith is captivated by her fun loving family. They are separated by the war and tragedy strikes them both but later they are reunited at Nancherrow and both find their happy ever after.
The story of their tragic war years is quite thought provoking, although Judith personally seems a fairly unemotional person and seems to recover very quickly from the terrible events.
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Buzz50
member
Reged: 14/09/2006
Posts: 5
Loc: East Yorkshire
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Five People You Meet In Heaven is an ‘uplifting’ book that once started, you want to read without interruption until you get to the last page. Mitch Albom writes about an ordinary maintenance man in a smooth, easy to read way. The story starts at the end and is about Eddie who finds himself in heaven after a freak accident. Eddie’s life is told by the five people he meets in heaven and he learns how his life touched theirs without his even knowing them and he discovers why he followed a path in life he never intended to.
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Jane_H
member
Reged: 31/10/2006
Posts: 1
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Empress Orchid by Anchee Min.
From a humble childhood, Orchid enters the Forbidden City and will go to any lengths to win favour with the Emperor. But to what cost? Set in 19th century China, and based on Tzu Hsi, China's last Empress, this is a dazzling and exotic story of forbidden love, betrayal, politics and power. Packed with fascinating facts and beautiful descriptions of Imperial China, it is truly enlightening. Loved it.
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audreysimpkin
member
Reged: 05/11/2006
Posts: 1
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War Reporting for Cowards by Chris Ayres: A true story by Chris Ayres a 'celebrity' reporter based on the West Coast of the USA who ends up, through every fault of his own, being an 'embed' with the United States Marines during the 2003 Iraq War. Cringe-worthy in places, at times laugh-out-loud hilarious. A look at the Iraqi conflict from a self-confessed coward's point of view. As an Army wife, used to hearing war described mostly in acronyms (about which I have no idea), it was refreshing - and I mean no dis-service to the author by this - to read a more 'girly-fied' version of military manoeuvres.
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britab
member
Reged: 05/11/2006
Posts: 1
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The Prize Winner of Defiance, Ohio by Terry Ryan.
With endless good-humour and spontaneous wit, mother-of-ten, Evelyn Ryan, somehow manages to rise above her poverty of circumstance, to feed and clothe her growing family by entering '25-words-or-less' slogan competitions, in America's 1960's jingles heyday. If there are such things as guardian angels, Evelyn definitely had one! The true story of an inspirational mother, written by Terry, child number six. A must! Once you start to read it... I guarantee you won't be able to put it down!
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Filly
member
Reged: 24/08/2006
Posts: 639
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Swimmer in the Secret Sea by William KOTZWINKLE
Perhaps one of the most moving books that I have ever read. William Kotzwinkle manages to describe the deepest of human feelings with this book. It is what could have been a "happy-end" story. Parents waiting for their first child to be born and the tragic, but unfortunately not rare, outcome. Their mourning and the father's quest for the perfect resting place for his child. A sad tale, but written in such a way that the dignity and the desperation of this young couple is keenly felt by the reader. An excellent read, perhaps not to be recommended to too sensitive expectant mothers.
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cassie
member
Reged: 24/04/2006
Posts: 198
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One Good Turn by Kate Atkinson
I don’t really like murder mysteries but I have enjoyed the other books by Kate Atkinson so thought I’d give it a go. I’m so glad I did.
A driver brakes to avoid hitting a pedestrian and is in turn hit by another car. This loosely links together a number of bystanders and the story begins to follow the lives of each of these people. The characters are ordinary people, some more interesting than others and some downright un-likeable. Each character has their own secrets which are gradually revealed. Although it is obvious they are all moving towards each other for the finale there are many twists and turns in the plot. Nothing is what it seems.
I don’t want to explain in more detail for fear of spoiling the plot. Read the book. 
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Anthea
member
Reged: 03/09/2006
Posts: 3
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Hello. Where can we find out who wins the books? I never know where to look.
Anthea
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ANGELA62
member
Reged: 04/08/2006
Posts: 75
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THE TAKE (Martina Cole)
Yet another East End gangland saga. Freddie introduces his younger cousin Jimmy into the life of crime only to be usurped by him at a later date. All their businesses are masterminded by Ozzy from his prison cell. He is in the know about everything and everyone and God help anyone who crosses him. The families are complex.
The recurring themes are violence, sex, bad language and the most vicious of murders. A real page turner, yet despite the descriptive content, it is imperative to know how these people end their days. In Cole’s inimitable style, even the most corrupt person can be portrayed as good and honest.
Angela62
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julie
member
Reged: 31/03/2006
Posts: 1
Loc: Have been living in Geneva for...
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Oscar and The Lady in Pink Eric-Emmanuel Schmitt
This is a beautiful, but sad story,with the underlying message to live life to the full.
Oscar, terminally ill in hospital, is persuaded by elderly hospital visitor Grannie Rose (the Lady in Pink),to write letters to God.
One day equals ten years, and every night Oscar writes a letter about his life. We meet Oscar at the age of ten, and he leaves at 110, having married, adopted a daughter, and lived his life to the full with joy and adventure.
It helped me question the fear of dying in a positive way.
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Happily married for more years than I like to admit to.
Two bi-lingual grown up children (now 24 and 21)
who survived immersion into the Swiss education system at 8 and 5 years of age.
Woman and Home helps keep me up to
date with changing trends in England.
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sallyj
member
Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
This is an excellent first novel about loyalty, friendship and betrayal.
Privileged Amir grows up with low-caste Hassan, the son of his father’s servant, in 1970s Afghanistan. The boys are close and Hassan is incredibly loyal to Amir, even though he must also serve him.
However, Amir is jealous of the affection and respect his own father shows to Hassan.
Hassan helps Amir to win a kite-fighting competition and also his father’s approval. But then Amir betrays Hassan in a terrible way.
Only after Hassan’s death, twenty years later, can Amir make amends in an exciting and gripping climax.
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CarolineN
member
Reged: 13/12/2006
Posts: 95
Loc: Scotland
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A Place Called Here by Cecelia Ahern
Have you ever spent ages looking for a missing sock but never found it?
Have you ever wondered where your favourite earing dissapeared to?
Sandy Shortt is just the person for you. Sandy spends her life looking for missing items and discovers that she has lost more than she first thought.
Cecelia makes the unbelievable believable in this easy to read but delightful story which has a deeper meaning if you care to look for it.
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sallyj
member
Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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An Unsuitable Job For a Woman
By P.D. James
A P.D. James novel with only a very minor for Adam Dalgliesh? It sounded like fish without enough chips.
But private eye Cordelia Gray proves that her profession is more than suitable for a plucky young woman. Hired to investigate the reasons behind a student suicide she uncovers one murder, witnesses another and is herself nearly killed.
Mix in a coded message in a prayer book, friends of the deceased with something to hide plus an alcoholic family doctor and the result is a gripping story.
This book is stimulating and satisfying with no need to add salt and vinegar!
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Daisycat
member
Reged: 09/06/2006
Posts: 654
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The Playground Mafia
by
Sarah Tucker
Caroline Gray is now a divorcee with a little boy who is about to start school. On searching for a new home Caroline decides to move to Frencham, where her two school friends live with their families. Caroline is feeling very pleased with herself as the house she has bought is within the catchment of the best state school in the area and her friends children already attend. Its the first day of school and Caroline is very nervous and is greatly supported by her son Ben as they enter the school gates...and so the story begins.
If you have ever been in the position of running the gauntlet of a school yard and the politics involved or are about to embarke on this stage in your life this book is for you. You experience the ups and downs of being a working mum trying to juggle lifes everyday happenings together with the internal politics of school life, which is anything but boring. While reading this I laughed and cringed at the antics these parents got up to just to get their children on in life, regardless of the damage they caused. It reads very true and could be considered a good guide as to the dos and donts of school politics.
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Dotty
member
Reged: 06/09/2006
Posts: 7
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1984 by George Orwell.
I read this in my teens, but decided to have another go at it, and it impacted on me in a much stronger way this time. This is written in the then future and Britain has become part of a larger continent called Oceania. The population are basically a lot of brainwashed zombies but the hero, Winston, begins to fight against Big Brother. Unfortunately, he is ultimately crushed.
The country portrayed displays some startling and worrying similarities to modern day Britain and is a wake up call for those of us who believe everything they are told.
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PARV29
member
Reged: 30/12/2006
Posts: 1
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A Gathering Light by Jennifer Donnelly
This unusual novel is based on a real life murder which took place, in 1906, in New York State. Mattie, the fictitious narrator, is torn between assisting her impoverished widowed father and her desire to gain a college education. The book succeeds on several levels. All the characters, however minor, have considerable depth, and the background and time in which they are placed are beautifully drawn. As Mattie tells her story, the life of the murder victim is also revealed. Thus two women`s lives are cleverly interwoven in the novel which is long remembered afterwards by the reader.
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lynne
member
Reged: 13/03/2006
Posts: 937
Loc: The Far North Of England
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Thirteen Moons by Charles Frazier.
Sold by his family, Will Cooper's exquisitely told life story is set in the turbulent 19th Century American Frontier. This sumptous historical fiction totally immerses the reader in an epic love story. Will's passion for a woman, his adopted people and for his land is totally believable.
So insightfully written, it deserves to be savoured and read slowly. It will touch you on all levels.
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didi
member
Reged: 24/02/2006
Posts: 1
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Dead Simple by Peter James
A murder, mystery set around the Brighton area of England.
The groom goes missing on his stag night and his four friends, get killed in a drunken road traffic accident.
The distrought bride and bestman, try to help the police as much as they can, but why would the groom disappear days before he was due to marry the love of his life?
There are so many twists and turns in this book, you won't be able to put it down until you've discovered the truth behind the mystery.
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member
Reged: 30/04/2006
Posts: 23
Loc: Nottingham
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Stuart- a life backwards by Alexander Masters
Stuart Shorter was a happy, loveable child but became a drug addict, psychotic, frequently homeless, repeatedly arrested. He and Alexander Masters formed an extraordinary friendship while fighting a campaign to free two wrongly convicted prisoners. Stuart agreed that Masters could tell his story, but backwards, starting at the end of his brief life and – reluctantly on Stuart’s part - working back to the shocking probable sources of Stuart’s problems. I defy anyone who has read this story not to develop a greater empathy and tolerance towards the plight of homeless people and those who work with them.
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CharleneC
member
Reged: 11/01/2007
Posts: 1
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The Memory Keeper's Daughter. by Kim Edwards.
Under what circumstances would you decide to give up your newborn baby? Dr David Henry makes this choice one winter night in 1964, when his twin babies are born. The first child is a healthy boy. The second, a little girl,has Downs Syndrome. A life defining moment is unfolding.Dr Henry chooses to send his daughter away to a special clinic, and tells his wife that the child has died.From this moment on, the lives of everyone involved will be forever changed. But not even Dr Henry is in complete control. He is about to make a discovery that changes everything.
Edited by CharleneC (26/01/2007 22:54)
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JackieFranklee
member
Reged: 21/01/2007
Posts: 2
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One Big Damn Puzzler - John Harding
A lawyer visits an idyllic South Sea Island, abandoned by the US Military with a landmine legacy. His aim is to persuade the inhabitants to make a claim against the government for their injuries. OCD, "Ladyboys", and hallucinagenic drugs are just some of the devices used by Harding to create an hilarious exploration of the devastating impact the West can have- in both landmines and "compensation culture". Is the march of so-called progress really this relentless?
The combination of all these strands results in a fantastic read. Serious issues are addressed, but with an incredibly deft and light hearted touch.
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Mrsaris
member
Reged: 07/02/2007
Posts: 1
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Divas Las Vegas
by Belinda Jones
This book follows the crazy saga of two English girls from Devon, England as they leave their quiet little English town behind to follow their dream to Las Vegas where the air is 70 % oxygen and 30 % confetti to find themselves husbands and have a double wedding. Izzy and Jamie, both in their late twenties are sick and tired of ‘crap’ boyfriends and now want to find themselves walking down the aisle together with ‘crap’ husbands from Vegas. Twenty-seven-year old Jamie wants to forget about her teenage boyfriend, CJ who now is about to marry his sister, Nadine. . Together with her friend, Izzy both girls travel to Vegas on a high-rolling, husband grabbing adventure!
Edited by Mrsaris (07/02/2007 09:18)
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waterbaby
member
Reged: 23/08/2006
Posts: 42
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Entwined (Lynda La Plante)
What is the connection between two women in newly liberated Berlin? Both are suffering from locked away memories of their childhood - the terrible experience and survival of the Holocaust.
A murder hunt brings a baroness and a circus performer together and we learn of the strange and powerful empathy that twins can have for each other.
BE WARNED. A disturbing story about nightmare years yet lightened in the surroundings of the Big Top. An 'unputdownable' book.
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Tabbycat
member
Reged: 26/02/2007
Posts: 1
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Miss Garnet's Angel Salley Vickers
Following her closest companion's death, retired teacher, Julia Garnet, exchanges her unremarkable lifestyle for six months in Venice. Painted panels in the local church depicting the journey (physical and metaphorical) of Tobias from the Apocrypha intrigue her. Changes wrought in Tobias prove to be the work of his travelling companion, finally revealed as the Archangel Raphael.
Julia's Venetian "journey" and characters she interacts with parallel those of Tobias, producing fundamental changes within her.
Vickers' story is wrapped in haunting and mystical language; the imaginatively drawn characters, set against the art, beauty and mystery of Venice, fully engage the reader.
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zennor
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1586
Loc: Falmouth in Cornwall
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Second Honeymoon - Joanna Trollope
Edie coped with her first two children leaving home but the pain of her youngest son fleeing the nest is almost more than she can bear! That coupled with her sister's turbulant marriage, an almost neglected husband and revelations about the true state of her offsprings' true financial and emotional circumstances make a novel that is extremely readable and extremely difficult to put down!
It is so true to life that some of us could have almost written the script!
This is no 'Aga Saga' - this is real life and a highly recommended read! Joanna has excelled in her latest bestseller!
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watercolour
member
Reged: 04/03/2007
Posts: 2
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The Gypsy Madonna by Santa Montefiore
Mischa discovers on his mother's death that she had possession of a valuable painting. In order to solve the mystery of why, he returns to France, the country of his childhood and recalls those often turbulent and disturbing times. This part of the book is written with great sensitivity but the tone and mood changes when he reaches mid-teenage years, almost as if penned by a different writer.
The conclusion is a little disappointing and I do not think I have read a better book than the author's 'Meet me under the ombu tree'. However, this is still a very enjoyable read and a pleasant change of subject matter
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ANGELA62
member
Reged: 04/08/2006
Posts: 75
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CONGRATULATIONS on your win, Jennifer.
See private mail.
Hope you enjoy your books - mine are fantastic.
Regards,
Angela
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MarieBr
member
Reged: 09/03/2007
Posts: 7
Loc: Northumberland
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Thin by Grace Bowman
A moving, inspiring and very readable account of the author’s experience of and recovery from anorexia. Now married and approaching 30, Grace reflects on what caused her to begin a diet and be unable to stop. As her story unfolds, you marvel at Grace’s self-awareness, cry for her supportive, helpless parents, and come to understand the many complex causes of the condition. Such was Grace’s control, that her road to recovery began when she decided that enough was enough. Above all, the book gives a message of hope. Recovery comes from relinquishing control and focusing on the needs of others.
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primrose
member
Reged: 11/03/2007
Posts: 1
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The No. 1 Ladies' Detective Agency. Alexander McCall Smith
My new favourite author! This delicious series of books features the charming, clever detective Precious Ramotswe. Precious lives in her hearts desire, Botswana. Like many women she faces doubts and fears but outwardly is strong and determined. She runs the detective agency. This heroine is beautiful. Confidently, comfortably overweight she manipulates people around her with grace. The book includes stories about missing children, drinking tea and the local garage owner all woven together quietly amidst the understated Botswana background. It is like no other read and as such - a must. You will not be able to forget this book.
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zennor
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1586
Loc: Falmouth in Cornwall
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Whitethorn Woods by Maeve Binchy
Maeve Binchy is such a comfort ... her books are full of wisdom with the characters all carefully interwoven. This latest offering centres cleverly around the theme of the Holy Well in Whitethorn Woods where people go hopefully to pray to St.Ann for a variety of personal reasons. The Woods are threatened by a new road and we learn about the past and future hopes of the residents in Rossmore in an astute and gentle way in which Maeve Binchy excells! A book for bedtime which will not cause sleepless nights - a book for Granny with inoffensive language, but best of all a book to enjoy and enjoy again another day!
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lynne
member
Reged: 13/03/2006
Posts: 937
Loc: The Far North Of England
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Our book club read this recently.........loved it!
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sallyj
member
Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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On Beauty by Zadie Smith
The New England Belsey family have problems. Kiki is struggling with Howard’s adultery whilst his academic career is faltering. Their three teenagers are discovering that life is not always fair.
When Howard’s arch-rival Monty Kipps arrives at the university, the two men lock horns but their wives form a tentative friendship. A death and a disappearing painting propel the novel to its explosive climax.
Brilliant, Technicolor language illuminates this compulsive tale - thick ankles are “like the ones Tom and Jerry played around”. This book demands that you settle down for a marathon word fest amongst imperfect yet likeable characters.
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Lesley49
member
Reged: 26/03/2007
Posts: 8
Loc: Peel, Isle of Man.
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Dead Simple by Peter James
This is a thriller that I came across by accident but which has led me to become hooked on the author.
The plot starts with a stag night prank that goes horribly wrong, leaving the impending groom encased in a coffin.
The story introduces a police detective who is leading the hunt for the missing groom and the plot twists and turns toward an unexpected ending.
This is the sort of story where you get half way through and then suddenly it makes you think, "whoa, I wasn't expecting that". I can't say much more without giving the plot away, but Peter James has a fascinating imagination.
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AlisonP
member
Reged: 01/04/2007
Posts: 1
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Buttertea at Sunrise (A year in the Bhutan Himalaya) by Britta Das
I love armchair travelling. I'm interested in people's lives and I like books that have at least a thread of fact running through them.
This book hit all the spots.
Britta is a Canadian physiotherapist who visited Bhutan and was drawn to work there. She tells her own story and that of countless Bhutanese villagers.
Britta's writing draws you in, so you feel you are experiencing life in our time in another place.
Don't miss it.
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MarieDH
member
Reged: 31/03/2007
Posts: 5
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Five People You Meet In Heaven
It is a book with a story but more importantly with a message and it is that message that I will focus on here. The author teaches us that, for our life to be rich, we must have and indeed acknowledge that we may all have great teachers and that we can all be great teachers. It is a book about the lessons we learn, the lessons we miss, and the lessons we should say thankyou for.
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JustMe
member
Reged: 31/03/2007
Posts: 60
Loc: Shropshire Hills
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The Invisible Girl by Peter Barham
This book is incredible. The memoirs of Peter Barham about his beautiful daughter and her battle with anorexia. She had a very successful, though short, life. She inspired others, she could be bitingly sharp and always hilariously witty and clever. This book made me want to laugh and cry. I wanted to know her. I felt I did know her. The complications of her relationships with her parents, her internal struggle, her ambition and her successes are revealed in a touching narration by her father, with emails and insights from her peers after her death. Superb.
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Buzz50
member
Reged: 14/09/2006
Posts: 5
Loc: East Yorkshire
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Mary Wesley - A Sensible Life
I only read Mary Wesley’s ‘A Sensible Life’ because it was taking up too much room on my bookshelf but it proved a most enjoyable read. Beginning in 1926 it combines an eclectic mix of English middle-class families who are in Brittany for the Easter Holidays. Flora, whose parents are too wrapped up in themselves to care much what happens to her is lonely and alone yet she captures the hearts of two sisters and three young men on the verge of adulthood. Flora’s story, woven with interesting characters spans 40 years during which time she is lost, betrayed and moreover loved. A completely satisfying read.
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claires
member
Reged: 07/04/2007
Posts: 2
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The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney
It is the title that attracts you to this book and the following pages do not disappoint.
Set in the 1860’s Canadian frontier it evokes hardship, loneliness and the power and beauty of the land. The central person is a tough back-woods farmer’s wife who bravely sets out, at the on-set of winter, in pursuit of her missing son who is suspected of murder. The story brilliantly moves between characters capturing their complex individualities and history whilst continuing to build intrigue and suspense.
A fabulously written, enthralling and prize winning, debut novel.
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claires
member
Reged: 07/04/2007
Posts: 2
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The Tenderness of Wolves
It is the title that attracts you to this book and the following pages do not disappoint.
Set in the 1860’s Canadian frontier it evokes hardship, loneliness and the power and beauty of the land. The central person is a tough back-woods farmer’s wife who bravely sets out, at the on-set of winter, in pursuit of her missing son who is suspected of murder. The story brilliantly moves between characters capturing their complex individualities and history whilst continuing to build intrigue and suspense.
A fabulously written, enthralling and prize winning, debut novel.
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Lib
member
Reged: 07/04/2007
Posts: 228
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The View from Castle Rock by Alice Munro
In this book Munro goes in search of her roots. From Will O'Phaup, grandfather of the Scottish writer James Hogg, to her father who farmed turkeys and fox fur in the American Depression, all Munro's ancestors leap from the page and engage our imagination. She recalls her own childhood and young love, writes of the hopes of her first marriage and reveals the solidity of her second.
Munro writes perceptively of the complexities of family life and those hidden ties that link her to past lives, while celebrating the joys of the present time.
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HeidiMary
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Reged: 09/04/2007
Posts: 1
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The Egg Race by Polly Williams
Another cracking (!) read from the author of 'The Rise and Fall of the Yummy Mummy'. This time her focus is thirty- something women with loudly ticking biological clocks. The story centres on Stevie who is about to marry a man who, whilst not making her earth move, is the nearest she can get to husband material! The story carries you along with a poignant humour as she deals with a series of crises involving her family as well as some old friends and unlikely faces from the past. A real page turner of a romantic comedy with a likeable central character whom you really hope will find happiness.
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Jacqueline
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Reged: 20/01/2006
Posts: 5
Loc: North Devon
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Crow Lake by Mary Lawson
When I read Joanne Harris's (Chocolat) comments on Lawson's first novel I was impressed that such an accolade could be bestowed by a recognised author onto an apparent "rookie" in the profession. And, Harris was right to praise this work - this is a sensitive, passionate tale of a bereaved family of 4 young orphans in the rural outback of Canada. The descriptions of each individual's hunger and thirst for, and pleasure and disappointment with life, all different, but inexorably intermingled with each other, will have you reaching for the tissues in either sympathy and/or empathy before the last page praying for a conceivable resolution - and Lawson doesn't thwart our appeal.
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clare29
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Reged: 07/03/2007
Posts: 24
Loc: South London
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Time Traveller's Wife - I also loved this book - it really seemed to get "under the skin" as it were - and Henry and Claire became very real to me, although I was always trying to work out where in time they were!
I only saw this post tonight (16 April 2007) as I am a rather intermittent follower of forums. But as I enjoy reading, it's always good to see if anyone likes the same books I do.
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lynne
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Reged: 13/03/2006
Posts: 937
Loc: The Far North Of England
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Well done Sally.......it looks like you are in for some good reads!
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sallyj
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Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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The Undomestic Goddess - Sophie Kinsella
Rock solid ‘roasted’ chick peas, an untamed ironing board and a gardener who can see straight through her ‘housekeeper’ act. Top lawyer, Samantha Sweeting, leaps all these hurdles as she plummets from law firm partner to cleaning her new employer’s toilets. With absolutely no domestic experience can she live up to her own ‘cordon bleu trained’ boasts?
This book is a delightful departure from Kinsella’s Shopaholic series. It takes the reader on a frothy roller coaster of humour and romance as Samantha’s life is turned upside down.
But beware – it may leave you questioning your own 9 – 5 office existence!
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sallyj
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Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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Thank you, Lynne. I've received a box of 13 books! That should keep me busy for a while. Good Luck to all the other reviewers out there.
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janis
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Reged: 24/01/2006
Posts: 5
Loc: Lnacashire
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I too enjoyed this book enormously. It is quite unique and a rather challenging read. I have passed it on to several friends but most of them found it 'difficult' and 'strange.' I thought it was excellent and shed a tear at the end - always a good sign!
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happiness28
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Reged: 29/05/2007
Posts: 1
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Fans of Maggie O' Farrell will not be disappointed with her latest novel, 'The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox'. This is a story of family - of sisters and sisters, of brother and sister, all inextricably linked. The power of O'Farrell's writing lies in her ability to blend narrative voices so expertly that they all appear to be present at once, telling their tale to the reader. Esme's story is heartbreaking and provokes sympathy; Kitty's constant ramblings reveal the true events and Iris, as a young modern woman, with issues of her own, is left to pick up the pieces. A stunning read.
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Stella
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Reged: 03/06/2007
Posts: 1
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The Mathematics of Love by Emma Darwin
Two stories alternate through the book, seemingly very different, but inextricably linked by the end.
Major Stephen Fairhurst, maimed at the Battle of Waterloo, travels Europe, mourning his lost love and searching for meaning in his life. He befriends an independent-minded woman, passionate about photography.
Anna, a lonely teenager in the mid-seventies, is left to fend for herself one summer with unknown relatives. She is befriended by exotic neighbours, who help teach her about photography - and life. The themes of photography, independent thought and especially the importance of love for others, blend the two stories satisfyingly into one.
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mbing
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Reged: 11/05/2007
Posts: 3
Loc: Cambridgeshire
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The Last Detective by Robert Crais
When the step-son of ex-special forces Elvis Cole is kidnapped, everything points to a revenge kidnapping relating to events in Cole's army life. How could the kidnapper know the details of military operations unless he was there?
A true 'can't put it down' thriller, this book has clever twists and turns, deep characters, and bucket loads of plot.
This is the seventh Cole novel, and Crais’ tenth bestseller, so there’s lots more once you’re hooked. Other examples of his work include TV scripts for LA Law and Cagney and Lacey.
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SUEG
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Reged: 07/06/2007
Posts: 1
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'Ghostwalk' by Rebecca Stott is a beautifully written, thought-provoking, literary novel. It’s also a page turner. Set in present day Cambridge, it’s the story of Lydia Brooke, who is caught up in a web of ghosts, time slips, scientific intrigue and murder when her ex-lover Cameron asks her to complete the book that his mother, a historian, was writing before she was found drowned---and, mysteriously, holding a glass prism in her hand. Why did this happen? The hairs on the back of your neck will rise with a frisson of exquisite terror as you discover the truth.
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feathers
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Reged: 20/05/2007
Posts: 563
Loc: Tyneside
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Those who save us
by Jenna Blum
Although this is quite a thick book it was so compelling I devoured it in 24 hours. The narrative switches between the wartime years in Germany and the USA in the 90s where the main characters settled with a GI husband after 1945. Key characters are Trudy and her mother, Anna, who has never talked about what she endured to survive in Nazi Germany. It's only through a university project Trudy is running examining how ordinary Germans lived through these extraordinary years that she finally learns the truth about her heritage. But her mother, who has learnt to hide the past, is silent to the end.
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Frailty
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Reged: 19/11/2006
Posts: 2
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The Inheritance of Loss – Kiran Desai
Set in India during the Ghurka uprising , there is much to enjoy in this book. There are many telling phrases and descriptions such as the Gymkhana library, slowly mouldering away.
The extreme poverty and difficulties of those at the bottom of the social scale and the impossibility of change are a constant theme.
Most of the characters are unsympathetic, any redeeming features quickly over shadowed by another instance of selfishness or callousness. It isn’t one to read as a bit of escapism. Look out for the endearing depiction of the dog Mutt, an uncomplicated joy in so much gloom.
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sallyj
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Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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Innocent Traitor – Alison Weir
This is the historical novel for those who don’t usually choose them. Using the present tense, it brings to life the story of the highly intelligent Lady Jane Grey. Her short life, cruel treatment and unfair manipulation is recounted vividly from several intermingled viewpoints.
We hear of the death of Henry VIII and witness that of his son, Edward. From then on Jane’s days are numbered and we share her prison in the Tower of London. Finally, her last moments are described by the executioner himself and I guarantee you will shed a tear.
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aggipanthus
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Reged: 05/04/2006
Posts: 179
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'Something Like Love' by Catherine Dunne (Pan Books £6.99)
Rose's husband Ben walked out on her and their childrren after twenty years of marriage, and eight years on decides to walk back in - or tries to. This is the story of how a woman once depressed, confused and a little scared, learnt to live as a single mother. She picked herself up, started what was to become a successful business, and found an inner strength to fight her husband, and find an even better life, and a better man. Amongst other things this is an object lesson in how to give your ex his comeuppance!
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ANGELA62
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Reged: 04/08/2006
Posts: 75
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THE CONSTANT GARDENER
By John le Carre
Tessa, the young lawyer cum aid worker, murdered in Nairobi with the African doctor purported to be her lover.
Justin,‘the deceived’? Justin was ‘the professional bachelor’, and had reached his ceiling in the Foreign Office, but surprised all by marrying the much younger Tessa. He is cleared of conspiracy and murder. He sets out on a long and arduous journey to unravel the mysteries of her work and to bring to justice the bent African government, the multinational pharmaceutical conglomerates that are killing innocent Africans used as guinea pigs to promote their ‘cure’ for tuberculosis.
What becomes of Justin? Read on...don’t watch the film.
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sallyj
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Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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Cold Hit by Linda Fairstein
Try this if you’re a Patricia Cornwell fan.
Alexandra is a feisty Assistant District Attorney in New York, specialising in sex crimes. One evening she is called to view the body of an elegant woman which has been pulled from the water. She has been tied to a ladder and raped.
Cooper and her detective colleagues are plunged into the international art world of the dead woman. Their job is made harder by the fact that the victim’s marriage had broken down and she had two lovers. Or is the murder linked to a major art theft several years earlier?
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LindyLouMac
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Reged: 12/07/2007
Posts: 1
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One of my favourite reads so far this year and in my opinion even better than the author's excellent debut novel `Emotional Geology'.
With this second novel I feel that Linda Gillard has established herself as an author to be watched by those who enjoy contemporary literature.
The story of the Dunbar's and their complicated familial relationships will stay with me, long after I finished reading. It is a disturbing but compelling tale as one is drawn into the lives of the family members.
The jumping backwards and forwards in time of the narrative I at first found confusing and had me flicking back and forth checking points. However for me this style added considerably to the understanding, because of the complexity of the story. I am intrigued as to how Linda Gillard tackled the writing of these different sections? Anyway the technique works very well with Flora's narrative starting the novel with her own funeral and then continuing to be inserted throughout.
I admire the author for tackling such a difficult theme so sensitively without causing angst.
I feel that I could say more but not without spoiling the plot for those who have yet to read this.
I am now encouraging family, friends and others to read the work of this brilliant new author if they have not already discovered her themselves.
I had a very enjoyable few hours immersed in the life of the Dunbar's and am now looking forward to the publication of her third novel.
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nina1973
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Reged: 08/07/2007
Posts: 8
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I was reading some of the book reviews above and began thinking what book would I recommend over all others. And for me it has to be 'The five people you meet in heaven' by Mitch Albom. I chose to read this book 6 months after losing my mum, when I had many questions (mostly unanswerable), and was struggling to cope. The author has written this book in such a beautiful way, delicate at times then more hard hitting at others.
When the main character of the book tragically dies, he arrives in heaven to be greeted by five people that he has significantly or igsignificantly been involved with during his existence on earth. They are there to remind him of valuable lessons he has lived through before arriving at this point.
This book planted a seed in my mind which helped me to view heaven and my mum in a comforting way. This book is by no means trying to impose that heaven is that way, but for me at a time when I was very confused - it was just the tonic I needed.
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ongoingstudent
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Reged: 03/07/2007
Posts: 8
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This book will save your life by A M Homes
This intriguing book takes the reader on the weird mental, and literal, journey of Richard, a well-off American divorcee who has hit a mid-life crisis. As his senses begin to reawaken - sometimes in quite spectacular fashion - he starts to notice things about himself and his environment in sometimes bizarre ways. This reawakening leads to him collecting an assortment of entertaining characters on his journey.
This was a book that left me with a feeling of needing to keep in touch with reality, just in case it somehow passes me by. Sheer curiosity kept me turning the pages.
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maidofkent
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Reged: 14/07/2007
Posts: 2
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There are whispers of the Brontes all the way down the shadowy corridors of this novel, surprisingly Setterfield's first. Gothic, oppressive, disturbing, it is beautifully written, and completely gripping. The heroine is suitably solitary and questioning, the main protagonist, Vida Winter, decidedly peculiar, telling a story that twists, repels and misleads wonderfully. But the strength for me of this book is that the author understands, how good books catch at one's vitals, and how bereft one feels when one is finished. As an encouragement for total immersion, I have not found a better. Start reading and you will find it hard to stop, and when you have to, you will mind. What better reason to begin?
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paulagalvin
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Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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I have just finished reading "The Glass Room" by kathryn Holmquist.It really is page-turning,taps into the zeitgeist,turns on all the right taps,knobs and buttons and is basically a redemptive tale.A great book to take on holiday, sip it as you would a sweet and possibly cloying cocktail!!!!!!!!!!!
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paulagalvin
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Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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I am reading the most truly wonderful book i have read in years!!!!!!!!!!I heard the author speak at the "Dublin Writers`festival" about a month ago and I was so moved by her reading of it and the book itself,that I simply had to go out and buy it."It" being "The post-birthday party" by Lionel Shriver.
it is simply a sumptuous read;intelligent,without being off-puttingly intellectual,beautifully written and so acutely aware of what makes women and to a lesser degree men tick.you find yourself nodding in agreement to all the internal monologues.
The novel tells the tale of Irina Mc Govern,a childrens`book illustrator,who takes out her "husbands" friend for dinner and afterwards,is tempted to kiss him.
but does she?it is on this seemingly frivolous whim ,that the entire novel is based.It follows two distictly separate storylines;one in which she does and one in which she does`nt,each one is utterly plausible,each one beautifully written so it is all up to you the reader to see which choice was best.
i found it an utterly beguiling read;she beautifully catches the cadences of ordinary speech,the petty pointless bickering of long-established relationships,the constant yearning for "another" (even when things are perfect)
lionel Shriver is funny.There are some fantastic one-liners in her book and you really will laugh out loud,or quietly chuckle.i really loved"one of the luxuries of which the underpriveleged were deprived in the United kingdom was consonants"
I think she is a superb writer and if you have ever wondered "What if"...........this is the perfect book for you!
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paulagalvin
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Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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It is called the post birthday world ,not party-sorry!
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paulagalvin
member
Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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P.F.Galvin
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waterbaby
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Reged: 23/08/2006
Posts: 42
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The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards
Every word demands to be read.
During a snowstorm David, a doctor, delivers his son followed by an unexpected twin who has Downs Syndrome. Deep and angry memories of his childhood lead David to tell his wife the second baby died and ask his nurse to take the child to an institution.
The consequences of this decision have a huge life-changing impact on so many lives. The worry of being found out (David), an unfulfilled marriage (wife) feelings of inadequacy (son) and ... read to find out.
Read slowly and enjoy the beautiful use of language describing secrets, tangled lives, sadness and love.
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paulagalvin
member
Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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"Back When we were grown-ups"by Anne Tyler tells the tale of Rebecca,who has dutifully performed the tasks required of her as a mother and wife and discovers that in this process,she has somehow lost herself.
She simply disappears one day and re-invents herself.This is a beautifully-wrought,deeply affecting tale ,told with Tylers`typically understated wisdom and knowledge of humankind.
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paulagalvin
member
Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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A Wedding in December" by Anita Shreve brings together seven former classmates for the wedding of two of their number.Throughout the course of two days,passions are rekindled,old animosities inflamed and some interesting secrets explored and divulged.It is a beautifully narrated tale,exquisitely perceptive and elegant.
Shreve manages always to be sentimental and poignant without mawkishness.I think she is a superb story-teller.
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paulagalvin
member
Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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Colm Toibins "the master" is truly magnificent;it tells the tale of Henry James and is written in his exquisite style.
it is beautifully written and perfectly envisions the James as he might have been,it is perfectly mannered,polished and poignant as it depicts a man who had everything yet failed to achieve what he would have liked most;intimacy.
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Sealover
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Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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The Distance Between Us by Maggie O'Farrell
In Hong Kong it's Chinese New Year and Jake goes through an horrific experience which has major repercussions on his life. Trying to escape his claustrophobic existence and in search of his roots, he heads for Scotland. When he reaches his destination he meets Stella, who has also abandoned her everyday life to return to a place which only her sister, Nina, knows the significance of. A beautiful, romantic tale with a surprising twist at the end. If you have something important to do, don't start this book - you won't be able to put it down!
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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How can two tiny Korean babies, adopted by very different Baltimore families, have such a profound effect on the lives of those who have chosen them? Fans of Anne Tyler's stylish writing will love this book and those who have never experienced her are in for a treat. Jin-Ho joins the Donaldson's, a close-knit family not afraid of expressing their feelings. Sami and Ziba Yazdan, both of Iranian origin, become the parents of tiny Susan. The story of these two disparate families, who stay in contact over the years, is both touching and funny. A great read.
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paulagalvin
member
Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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"The Way I Found Her" by Rose Tremain is an utterly beguiling read;it is exquisitely written,beautifully evocative of a certain time and place.The place is Paris and Lewis,our hero of fourteen years travels there with his mother,Alice who is translating the medieval romances of Valentina,a glorious exotic.Lewis falls in love with her and the labyrinthal story that follows involves secret trysts,intruiging characters and a slowly-unravelling and ultimately tragic denouememt.It is told through the eyes of Lewis,a highly intelligent and complex boy and therein lies part of its huge appeal.Readers,I loved it!
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Lib
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Reged: 07/04/2007
Posts: 228
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The Diana Chronicles by Tina Brown (published by Century)
This book is unputdownable! Not only is it a gripping account of the life and death of a modern icon, it's also a social commentary and a psychological examination of a beautiful but flawed princess. Diana has entered into a Faustian pact with the media which she cannot break. Charles, who turned away from his wife in life, fights his corner for her after her death. These two unhappy people can only be together when apart. This modern Greek tragedy, beautifully written by someone who knew Diana personally, gives us a fascinating insight into the aristocracy in our media-driven world.
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Foxie
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Reged: 09/08/2007
Posts: 7826
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The City Lawyer by John Grisham
Michael Brock thought he had everything required for a perfect life - an upward career in a law firm with a five figure salary, a wife with a fast track medical career, a luxurious apartment in the 'right' part of the city and his and hers sports cars until one fateful morning. Michael and eight work colleagues are held hostage by a homeless man who is eventually shot dead by police marksman. Unravelling the reasons why he was taken hostage leads Michael to re-evaluate his life in his quest to achieve justice for the dead man.
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I've learnt that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel. Maya Angelou.
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Helen_Holmes
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Reged: 17/08/2007
Posts: 3
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The Tenderness of Wolves, by Stef Penney
Don’t miss this breathtakingly beautiful novel, set in Canada in 1867, and combining elements of murder mystery, psychological thriller and historical narrative. A mother sets off on an epic journey into snowy wastes to find her 17-year-old son, who is suspected of a brutal murder. On the way, she bumps up against others' lives, and eventually discovers herself through the redemptive power of love. The labyrinthine threads of the story are inextricably intertwined around a complex cast and the dialogue is gritty and realistic. The descriptive language is poetic, and conjures up the icy landscape so evocatively that your own bones ache!
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paulagalvin
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Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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Yes ,I loved this book too,I think it is her best yet,very fluid and movingly written.Am looking forward to her next already,have also submitted a review.Happy reading... 
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paulagalvin
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Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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Although I thoroughly enjoyed this book,there was something irritating about the tone,something vaguely do-gooderish about it.It ticked all the right boxes,the wife trying to "find herself",the well-meaning but misunderstood husband,the hard-working Al and Caroline and Caroline`s struggle to bring up Phoebe,the rebbellious son etc.
It seemed to me as if the author had done a lot of creative writing courses,learned what you need to include in a book,to make it appeal to women of a certain age and then went for it.Does anyone else feel that about it?
Having said that,it is very skilfully written but appears to lack passion.
Someone once said to me that when you say a book is not good...what you are really saying is "I could do better"
and I am certainly not saying that...it is just my observation,whatdyathink? 
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paulagalvin
member
Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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If you liked this you will love "The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox" by Maggie O`Farrell.Cannot recommend it highly enough....brilliant!!!
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Sealover
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Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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Paula, I do agree with you about "The Vanishing Act of Esme Lennox". It is a truly remarkable book. I don't often read books more than once, but I have already read this one twice and enjoyed it just as much the second time and will probably read it again and again. Oh how I wish I could write like her!
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paulagalvin
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Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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So do I!!!!!!!!!!!She writes so smoothly and seemingly effortlessly.Who else would you rate up there with her?
I am always trying to "discover" new authors-I tend to fixate on one,read all of hers(because I tend to read women authors,no particular reason or prejudice,just seems to work that way...
Happy reading!!And with the weather here in Ireland all grey and gloomy,there is nothing better than curling up with a good book under the duvet!!!!!!!
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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I've only got one more Maggie O'Farrell book left to read now, so I'm torturing myself by saving it in the hope that she'll get a move on a write another one soon!
I also like Anne Tyler and I see that you have read some of hers, too, Paula. Have also read one Jodi Picoult, which I enjoyed, and have another to read. She may become a favourite. I've almost finished Half of a Yellow Sun, but won't comment on that as I see it's the Eyes Down book and don't want to spoil it for those still reading it.
Also enjoy Sebastian Faulkes, especially Human Traces and have Birdsong to read. And Marian Keyes always has me giggling, which can't be bad on a dreary day! I particularly like Rachel's Holiday.
But my all time favourite author (well, at the moment at least!) is Ian McEwan. I think his style is just perfection, his stories are intelligent and believable and I swear that I've met some of his characters! I loved Saturday and Atonement in particular and see that the latter has been made into a film. Not sure if I'll go to see it as I'll be very, very cross if they've got it wrong!
Would love to know what others think of my favourites and also any recommendations - I've only got 25 books left to read in my own personal library and couldn't bear to run out!
Paula, I've seen your other message about prioritising and leaving the housework - couldn't agree more! Weather here in the southwest has been wet and miserable today, so I've had a "duvet day" - the dust will still be there tomorrow!
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paulagalvin
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Reged: 20/07/2007
Posts: 170
Loc: leixlip
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oh what a joy!!a woman after my own heart...i am amazed at the number of messages I post and people do not even bother to respond,i just think it is rude,rude,rude!!!!!!!!!!!Rant over(for now)
Yes,Sebastian Faulks is a dream..have you read "Human Traces"..truly marvellous.
What about Niall Williams? Books that are almost transcendent,spiritually uplifting.."As It Is In Heaven" and "Four Letters of Love"
Marian Keyes I have never read but hear great things and on the subject of Irish authors,try Anne Enright and Aidan Higgins.
After three layers of dust,no more will settle!!!!!!!!!!! 
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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And I see we are both night owls as well, Paula!
Human Traces was marvellous. Don't know Niall Williams, but will put on my wish list - which gets longer every day! Will also try the two Irish authors, too and let you know what I think. You see, that's my problem - someone mentions a new book and I'm off to get it! It's as if I think that the bookshops will run out if I don't get it NOW!
Well, I suppose I'd better get some sleep - but I'll have to have a little read first! Night night!
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jantrigano
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Reged: 05/08/2007
Posts: 340
Loc: Scottish Highlands
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Hi Paula and Sealover - wow you really are both night owls , aren't you ? Loved your suggestions re books and authors and you have certainly given me a few different ones to think about. I love Joanne Harris, and although not very fashionable now, I still enjoy Agatha Christie for a bit of old fashioned charm - just love Poirot and Miss Marple ! I also have really enjoyed Alexander Mccall Smiths series of 44 Scotland Street, Espresso Tales etc - not so keen on the Ladies Detective stories. Hope you are tucked up in bed now. Byeeee - Jan
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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Hi Jantrigano - I suspect that Paula is like me in that she feels its a waste of good reading time to go to sleep! Glad you liked the suggestions. Do let us know if you try any and whether you love 'em or loathe 'em! I haven't read any Joanne Harris yet, but she is on my Wish List. I've read a few of the Ladies Detective stories and rather liked them, especially if the book I've read just before was a bit manic! They are so gentle and really nothing happens, so I just let the nice words roll over me and pretend I'm in the Botswana sunshine instead of the Torbay rain! I will have a go at some of AMS's other books, though. Agatha Christie, I must admit, has never been up my street. However, having said that I have stayed in the hotel in Aswan on the banks of the Nile where she apparently got her inspiration for Death on the Nile. Lovely hotel and a stunning spot. I've also enrolled for an Agatha Christie murder/mystery creative writing event which the local adult education college is putting on in September as part of AC week (she lived round here so she's quite a local heroine!). The idea is that we have a sort of writing workshop on the Tuesday, discussing ideas and how to write murder/mystery short stories. Then we go home and write a story which we read to the group on the Friday evening, over a glass of wine. Should be fun!
So, as you can see, if I'm not reading a book, I'm trying to write one! I just love words! Nothing published yet, but I have high hopes!
Perhaps I'll just slope off and have a little read now!
Bye for now.
Steph (aka Sealover)
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jayra
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Reged: 20/05/2007
Posts: 198
Loc: Scotland
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Hi book lovers! I love reading too but I'm not a night owl - as I work full time and up at 6.30 every morning,I save my reading for bed but I'm a bath at 9 girl and in bed by 9.30, hoping to get an hour to hour and a half to read before dropping off! Otherwise it's holidays.
I really enjoy reading books by Anne Tyler, Margaret Atwood, Anita Shreve (most of them), Rosie Thomas (try 'Iris and Ruby'- a lovely, well written novel), Jodie Picoult (easy reading but, often a surprising twist at the end)- to name but a few.
John Grisham, Patricia Cornwell, Lionel Shriver and (when looking for something more gruesome)James Patterson can also 'float my boat'!
'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini was a wonderful recent read, also 'The Time Traveller's Wife' by Audrey Niffeneger - you either love or hate it.
Presently reading the Book Club choice - ' Half of a Yellow Sun' and looking forward to starting the Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards.
Happy Reading - I'll think about you as I nod off tonight.
Jenni x
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Sealover
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Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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Hope you're having a lovely sleep, Jenni! OK, so now I have to add Iris & Ruby and the Memory Keeper's Daughter to my wish list! I can't for some reason, get on with Margaret Atwood. Tried three of her books and none of them did it for me, although everyone tells me how great she is. I do agree that The Kite Runner is a great read. It's a really haunting story and difficult to get out of your brain, isn't it? John Grisham I like sometimes - loved A Painted House and if all else fails I just dribble over his photo! If you like a bit of gruesome, I wonder if you've tried Nicci French or Tess Gerritsen? Both are full of enough blood and gore to keep you awake at night!
Sweet dreams!
Steph
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jayra
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Reged: 20/05/2007
Posts: 198
Loc: Scotland
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I forgot - I also enjoy Nicci French - Killing Me Softly (such a clever title) was unputdownable; if there's not such a word, there ought to be!
Cat's Eye by Margaret Atwood was my favourite of hers and one of my very favourite books but I agree, some are hard and I haven't enjoyed all of her books - found The Blind Assassin impossible to follow, comprehend or like, despite persevering.
I'll look out for Tess Gerritsen.
Happy Reading, Jenni x
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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Quite agree, Jenni, Killing Me Softly is great! I've tried Alias Grace, The Robber Bride and Oryx & Crake by Margaret Atwood - all highly recommended by three different people. The Robber Bride I just managed to get through, gave up half way on Alias Grace and as for Oryx and Crake - don't think I got beyond page 4! It's always great to hear of new authors, isn't it? The anticipation of starting a new book is wonderful! And no matter how often I go in to a bookshop "just to look" I always come out with at least one book and usually three!
I will probably finish Half of a Yellow Sun tonight and then have to choose the next one! Life is just full of choices!
Steph
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Frailty
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Reged: 19/11/2006
Posts: 2
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The Secret River - Kate Grenville
A London waterman, William Thornhill, is deported to Australia with his wife and child, who he loves dearly.
There are matter of fact descriptions of lives ruled by poverty in both countries, and of what people will do to carry on living, England too had a kind of caste system.
Slowly, William makes a place for himself, but the new migrants and the aborigines have different ideas on how to live life and eventually Wiliam has to make a decision.
A thought provoking book, which shows that you can never say 'I would never do that'
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NancyMoo
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Reged: 29/08/2007
Posts: 3
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A Smoker's and Dog's Guide to the Gal-Alexy (Bess Macpherson)
This book is not a novel, but an exquisite insight into the mind of Bess: a middle aged woman going through her second divorce.
A compilation of her random thoughts gives her take on the everyday and the not-so everyday and follows her journey "from insanity to sanity and back again".
Funny, sad, intelligent and a little bit wacky, this book is an essential read for all women and has an uncanny ability to reach out and touch you whatever page you open it and whichever mood you happen to be in.
A real coffee table must-have.
Edited by NancyMoo (29/08/2007 14:41)
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sallyj
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Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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Plain Truth – Jodi Picoult
A newborn is found dead in a barn. Amish girl, Katie, denies the murder and her pregnancy, despite having obviously just given birth. She is bailed on condition that her attorney, Ellie Hathaway, lives with Katie and her family until the trial.
Ellie is forced to live the Amish way, without telephones, electricity or cars. Katie is forced to face the fact that American justice does not forgive in the Amish way.
Picoult’s depth of research makes this book compulsive on two levels – as a courtroom drama and a fascinating ‘through the keyhole’ look at the Amish way of life.
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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Skipping Christmas by John Grisham
With daughter Blair away in Peru, ignoring Christmas seems like a good idea to Luther and Nora Krank. Why spend all that money for just one day when they could be enjoying a Caribbean cruise instead? So they set about telling everyone that they won’t be doing Christmas this year. Eyebrows are raised, heads are shaken and scowls exchanged. The Krank house sits dismal and lonely amongst the twinkling lights and plastic snowmen in the neighbourhood. Of course, all comes right in the end in this unashamedly schmaltzy story. Not Grisham’s usual gritty courtroom drama, but a funny, feelgood fable.
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aliirv
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Reged: 15/05/2007
Posts: 245
Loc: northern ireland
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The House at Riverton by Kate Morton
Told in flashback by Grace in 1999, we follow the story of the Hartfield sisters Hannah and Emmeline during the 1st World War and into the 1920's. Aged 14, Grace starts working for the family as a housemaid and forms a strong attachment to them. We know at the outset of the book that the sisters are witnesses to the suicide of a young war poet one summer evening. The slowly meandering story takes us from Graces early days as a servant to the final shocking truth about that hot, summer night. This is a delightful book which brings the class system of the early 20th century alive, whilst always reminding us of the impending tragedy.
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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The Perfect Summer by Juliet Nicolson
Industrial strikes and the possibility of war did nothing to stop the hedonistic upper classes from enjoying the uninterrupted sunshine of summer 1911. While they revelled in the celebrations surrounding the coronation of George V, the working classes sweated in the heat to cater to their whims. The thoughts of a Queen and a butler, a debutante and a trade unionist conspire to give us an insight into what was a perfect summer for some, but less so for others. Funny as well as informative, this is a smashing read!
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sallyj
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Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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Anybody Out There? By Marian Keyes
Reading Marian Keyes' ‘Anybody Out There?’ is like drinking a pint of Guinness; light froth on the top but immensely satisfying beneath.
Join Irish ex-pat Anna in the glitzy world of New York cosmetics PR as she attempts to contact her beloved absent husband, Aidan, and struggles to live without him.
Stir in a mad private detective sister and a dose of air guitar and watch the bubbles rise. Drop in Anna’s raw anguish at Aidan’s silence and plumb the depth of black emotion that a sudden separation brings.
This book will make you laugh, cry and reflect.
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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The Old Man Who Read Love Stories by Luis Sepulveda
Recommended to me by another Book Club member, this novella is an uplifting read. Short as it is, it has many facets, telling the tale of an old man living in the Amazonian jungle. Although almost illiterate, Antonio adores love stories and laboriously reads the romantic novels given to him. His life is, however, turned upside down when he is forced to hunt a jaguar which has turned into a man killer after her cubs have been savagely and needlessly murdered. I loved this wonderfully haunting fable that is as sweet as it is bitter.
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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My Lover’s Lover by Maggie O’Farrell
Can’t decide what kind of books you like? Try this! Part ghost story, part love story, part psychological drama, part tale of deceit and betrayal, all these elements coming together to make an engrossing read. Does Lily imagine the ghostly presence of Marcus’s ex-girlfriend, Sinead, when she moves into his flat? Why is flatmate Aidan so uncommunicative and sullen? What is the truth about Sinead? Was she murdered? Is Marcus’s professed love for Lily real? What is the secret that Aidan is keeping from Lily? This atmospheric story twists and turns in myriad ways, luring you to a stunning conclusion.
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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The Memory Keeper's Daughter by Kim Edwards
But for a blizzard on the night that Norah Henry gave birth to twins, many lives would have been different. Norah’s surgeon husband, David, delivers the babes, a healthy boy and Phoebe, who has Down’s syndrome. Appalled, he begs nurse Caroline Gill to take the tiny girl to an institution and leave her there, telling Norah that the baby died. Caroline, unwilling to abandon Phoebe, raises her as her own. Not until Phoebe is an adult does Norah learn that her daughter did not die. A remarkable story of how lives may be changed by the simple falling of snow.
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Sealover
member
Reged: 31/08/2006
Posts: 1271
Loc: Devon
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Over by Margaret Forster
This is the story of a family unravelling when they should be drawn together. Miranda, the 18-year-old daughter of Don and Louise, twin to Molly and older sister of Finn, is drowned in a sailing accident. Determined that someone must be held culpable, Don abandons his career in an obsessive search for details of the boat in which Miranda died and the reasons why she, an inexperienced sailor, was alone at sea. While Louise and her children deal with Miranda’s death in their own ways, the family is torn apart by Don’s fixation. This powerful chronicle of love, grief and loyalty is both moving and thought provoking.
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DebbieWhite
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Reged: 07/09/2007
Posts: 7
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The House at Riverton by Kate Morton (Pan priced at £7.99)
A beautifully written story which follows the life of Grace, a young girl in service as a housemaid. Duty, self sacrifice and loyalty give way to secrets and despair as we are transported from 1999, the present, back to the early 1900s, the devastating Great War years and then to the decadent 1920s. With overtones of Gosford Park, Kate Morton captures the mood of English society in the early 20th century taking the reader through wonderful scenes of garden parties, debutante balls and staid dinner parties. Atmospheric and gripping with the final secret revealed on the very last page. Brilliant!
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saragrland
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Reged: 14/10/2007
Posts: 2
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review - the irresistible inheritance of Wilberforce
This intriguing book chronicles the life of a somewhat isolated and complex individual from present to past. It manages to cleverly depict from the character’s perspective what it is like to live with the ill effects of alcohol addiction, which is novel, insightful and impressive. Whilst the first part of the book is inspiring and compulsive reading, during the middle chapters the book struggles to provide enough new and discerning information about the characters and past situations to keep you as hooked as at the outset; but it does offer a ménage of eccentric characters, flawed relationships and captures how an person’s future can turn out far different than as expected. Once finished it will also leave you with some food for thought about the way we live our lives in general.
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Susiesue
member
Reged: 16/10/2007
Posts: 14
Loc: Cardiff
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This thought provoking book leads us on an endearing, emotional journey. We travel through what might some think of as an unconventional heaven. Eddie 83, died heroically trying to saving a young girl from a fairground accident.
Arriving in heaven he is met by five people, who had not obviously crossed his path but have definitely influenced the pattern his life took.
Each interaction is transfixing, you're eager to continue the journey to the final destination and outcome.
Moved to tears, unable to put the book down, it made me reassess my life and the possible outcomes of any actions
From
Susan Lang
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Nameless
member
Reged: 21/10/2007
Posts: 5
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The Harmony Silk Factory by Tash Aw
This unusual story is the first novel by Tash Aw. Set in Malaya around the 1940s, it concerns Johnny Lim, who rises from humble beginnings to a position of power and influence. He marries a woman called Snow, who dies giving birth to a son, Jasper.
The first part is written by Jasper, who has a low opinion of Johnny;apparently he committed many terrible crimes. The second part is a diary kept by Snow before she died: in this we see a completely different picture. The final part, by their mutual friend Peter, makes everything clear at last.
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waterbaby
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Reged: 23/08/2006
Posts: 42
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The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs
This is a light easy read following the setting up of a knitting club. We learn of the women's lives, hopes and dreams and see them come to fruition. A lesson in the comradeship of women, good times and bad, support and trust. Brave Georgia who owns the knitting shop while bringing up her daughter. Cat, her schoolfriend, from years past who reappears Darwin who cannot knit. Anita with her words of wisdom. All different ages, all with their own problems, all being there for each other.
A different version of the Supper Club perhaps.
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lynne
member
Reged: 13/03/2006
Posts: 937
Loc: The Far North Of England
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Relentless. Simon Kernick
This pacey thriller hooked me on page one. It’s a breakneck speed read with more twists and turns than the final of Strictly Come Dancing.
Decent, law abiding John Merron receives a phone call from a friend, screaming for help. The last words he hears are his home address.
He scoops up his children and runs from the house not knowing that within minutes he will be hurtled into a world of violence. He will be very lucky to escape with his life…and where is his wife?
This book should come with a health warning.
Pick up this book late at night and sleep becomes unimportant. I stayed awake until 3 am to finish it and could not put it down.
Even if George Clooney had been giving me a foot massage I probably wouldn’t have noticed !
This would be an exciting distraction from Christmas preparations. I am definitely asking Santa for Simon Kendrick’s other books.
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VickiH
member
Reged: 31/10/2007
Posts: 12
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Anyone but him, Sheila O'Flanagan
What would you do if your mother came home from a cruise with more than a tan to remember the holiday by? That's the question 2 sisters are left pondering when their Mother returns home, complete with a toy boy in tow. What does he want? Money? Somewhere to live? Surely he has an alterior motive?
The sisters set out to dig through his past, convinced they'll find a way to get rid of him. After all, anyone would be more suitable as a potential step father than him... anyone but him...
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tizliz
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Reged: 02/11/2007
Posts: 1
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Making Money by Terry Pratchett
Though all Terry Pratchett books can be read as stand alone books you will enjoy this one more if you have read Going Postal where Moist von Lipwig given another chance uses his wiles as a con man to save the post office. Now he is ‘persuaded’ to do the same for the banking system.
There are all the usual jokes, vampires, werewolves, assassin’s guild but this series of books (Raising Taxes is next) is not as good as his witches books even though he does include the unseen university as he needs the advice of a dead wizard.
There is the usual sub-plot of having a dig at society i.e. that the banking system runs on trust and can be easily toppled (very topical).
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sallyj
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Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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Can Any Mother Help Me? Jenna Bailey
This book tells the true story of a group of lonely but intelligent mothers from across England, who formed the 1930s equivalent to the Woman and Home internet forums.
The Cooperative Correspondence Club was a private magazine to which all the women contributed and it was circulated by post as a ‘round robin’.
Within this supportive network the women discussed everything from childbirth to war and eventually, widowhood and old age. Through sharing the details of their lives they became close and started to meet up whenever possible.
A collection of ordinary yet compelling stories that deserves to be read.
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jose01
member
Reged: 10/11/2007
Posts: 1
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Murder Most Fab by Julian Clary
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It was well written, but a little risque, well quite a lot risque, not for people who are likely to be embarrassed. Not my usual kind of read.
Its about a male prostitute Johnny Debonair living with a female prostitute and she encourages him to murder. (I know what an odd combination.) The first murder was because the gentleman he was servicing claimed he had Cancer and wanted to end his life. Unfortunately this claim was untrue, it then goes on to other murders to cover tracks, but in the end he cannot get away with it.
It is well worth a read. I did not buy this book, it was loaned to me.
I would be encouraged to buy another book written by Julian Clary and felt this first attempt at being an author was very good.
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Bobby
member
Reged: 17/11/2007
Posts: 1
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The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold
A young girl is murdered and spends many years watching the activities of her former life as 'life' moves on. The book shares my theory on heaven, basically there are different 'planes' and you do what you do best! Wonder how many of 'us' identify with Franny!
Had the same kind of feeling as the 'chicken soup for the...' books - or 'Doris Stokes' books. Tugged on the heart strings that the cosmic balance is inevitable ... like the cable show 'touched by an angel' it gives the same 'pit of the stomach' understanding.
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BC41
member
Reged: 05/11/2006
Posts: 226
Loc: England
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On Writing - Stephen King
If you're turned off by horror and gore, you may not read this book because it's by SK. Shame. You're missing out on an excellent book which not only contains practical tips for writers but also a brief biography which explains his love of the dark. It also details the accident that nearly killed one of the world's most popular authors, and how his love of the written word kept him going. Fascinating.
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poshpaws
member
Reged: 15/11/2007
Posts: 4
Loc: Grampian
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I read about this book, including interviews with some of the surviving members, quite recently - thanks for reminding me about it, I'm going to see if I can find it at amazon.
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If at first you don't succeed ... don't try skydiving.
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efrogwraig
member
Reged: 22/11/2007
Posts: 2
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Resistance by Owen Sheers
1944 and Germany has won the War.
In a remote Welsh Valley the women wake up to find all their menfolk have left
to join the resistance. They do what women always do, just get on with things.
When a German patrol comes into this valley the women embark on a path of passive resistance which changes as the winter sets in. Sarah Lewis a young woman develops a friendship with Albrecht as he talks to her of music and poetry and things her husband never knew about.
Bleak, realistic, heartbreaking but hopeful. My book of the year.
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mag860
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Reged: 04/09/2006
Posts: 82
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P.S. I love you - Cecelia Ahern
A wonderfully poignant book which captures many of the emotions felt by someone whose husband has died. Holly and her husband Gerry joked about her needing a list to remind her to do things if he should die. When he succumbs to a brain tumour at the age of 30, Holly discovers that Gerry has has left letters to be opened on the 1st day of each month after his death. The bitter sweet emotions created by these letters is almost tangible. It will make you laugh and cry, and will certainly make you remember those you have lost.
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aliirv
member
Reged: 15/05/2007
Posts: 245
Loc: northern ireland
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The Tenderness of Wolves by Stef Penney
Set in the snow-bound wilds of Canada in 1867, this book traces the hunt for a murderer. A sullen teenage boy has disappeared after the brutal slaying and this combined with the sudden appearance of a stranger in the isolated township leads to a voyage of self- discovery for a mother. As she follows the trail left by her son, her story is inevitably intertwined with that of other settlers in the desolate region.
A poignant and moving debut novel from an accomplished writer.
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BarMC
member
Reged: 06/08/2006
Posts: 4
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The Amazing Adventures of Dietgirl by Shauna Read
Shauna Reid (Dietgirl) from Australia was 23 years old and 25 stone in January 2001 and determined to somehow lose her weight.She created a weblog "The Amazing Adventures of Dietgirl" which follows Shauna's diary of adventures as she curbs the calories and starts to enjoy the gym.
This book is hilarious, action packed and entertaining with romance thrown in. A truly inspirational story and a must for anyone embarking on losing weight in 2008.
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janbryn
member
Reged: 06/01/2008
Posts: 4
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On Chesil Beach-Ian McEwan
An elegant book which is much more than a well crafted description of a disastrous wedding night. Florence and Edward, products of the post war era and its severity, fail to adapt to the sexually liberated swinging sixties;their initial comic fumblings move with a certain inevitability to a tragic outcome. We learn that lives can change in an instant and founder because of what is left unsaid. A well written novel in which the tension is palpable, the awkward exchanges between the young couple touching and McEwan's dissection of their characters and relationship masterly.
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pennywales
member
Reged: 06/01/2008
Posts: 1
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The Boy with No Shoes
by
William Horwood
A fictional biography, Jimmy is the fifth child of the family and illegitimate; his older siblings tease and torment him, his mother is portrayed as uncaring. It is the story of his painful growing up and the relationships he forges as a child and young adult. Set in Kent, the author draws you into seaside setting with delightful descriptions.
A beautifully written book, the prose is simple, its meaning so rich. Sentence and paragraph lengths are varied to regulate the tempo of the story to perfection. I couldn’t put it down but didn’t want it to end either!
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nandan
member
Reged: 09/01/2008
Posts: 12
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Written on Glass by Judith Lennox
Set in post war England, this is a story of two neighbouring families torn apart by love, loss, betrayal and misunderstanding.Brothers Dick and Will are rivals for Julie's love, she adores both but in different ways.Marrying one will estrange the other. Her brother, Marius, returns from the war and looks up an old girlfriend. When he finds her, she gives him news that will change his life forever.Old childhood friend,Topaz, who considers herself lonely, unlovely and unloved, watches as passions and secrets develop and unfold.There's no happy-ever-after ending, the characters
develop in a totally unexpected but intriguing way.
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sugarbaby
member
Reged: 10/01/2008
Posts: 2
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A thousand splendid suns by Khaled Hosseini
This book is an unforgettable story about two different women thrown together in troubled times of the Taliban in Kabul. Mariam is only fifteen when she is sent to Kabul to marry the violent bitter Rasheed, who is thirty years older. Nearly two decades later, in a climate of growing unrest, tragedy strikes the fifteen year old Laila, who has to leave her home & join Mariam's unhappy household. Lalia & Mariam finally find consolation in each other, despite their different backgrounds. When the Taliban arrive in Kabul, life becomes a struggle against brutality, starvation & fear. The women's ensurance is tested beyond their worst imaginings and they carry out a dangerous mission. In the end, love triumps over death & destruction & life behind a burkha. A fascinating insight into what women have to put up with in Afghanistan.
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sallyj
member
Reged: 10/12/2006
Posts: 71
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My Sister’s Keeper – Jodi Picoult
Do you believe in designer babies, bred to save a sick sibling? Would you ask your teenage daughter to donate a kidney to her sister? Is it fair that your sick child always comes first and the rest of your offspring exist in their shadow?
These questions and more bubble and simmer all the way through Picoult’s compulsive novel.
Anna was conceived to donate umbilical cells to her ill sister, Kate. But as Kate relapses, more and more is expected of Anna. Finally, Anna hires a lawyer to fight for her medical emancipation but he brings his own emotional baggage…
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sugarbaby
member
Reged: 10/01/2008
Posts: 2
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The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
This beautifully written book keeps you guessing until the end. Set in l939 in Nazi Germany, the book follows the story of nine year old Liesl and her fascination with books. The importance of words is a theme that runs throught the book, from Liesl stealing them and Maz writing them, to the use of words by the Nazi proganda machine. Sadly Liesl is sent to live with a foster family after her parents are taken away for being communists. The story follows Liesl and family as they negotiate the difficulties of living in Germany at this time. The narrator of the story is Death. However he is fair & vulnerable. As expected in these times, the book deals with some difficult subjects and there is plenty of tragedy. Well worth reading this excellent book.
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Frangelina
member
Reged: 13/01/2008
Posts: 116
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Painting Mona Lisa by Jeanne Kalogridis
This isn't a book I would usually have picked up, but I was leant it by my daughter and what a fantastic read.
The story has so many twists and turns that it is a highly believable account of what could have happened around the time that Leonardo painted his famous picture.
A great historical type novel which keeps you enthralled from beginning to end. There were some gory bits (where I admit I had to close my eyes)fitting of that period in history but ultimately this is a story of betrayal and love and passion.
It's well worth picking up.
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Angelique
member
Reged: 17/01/2008
Posts: 1
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