Moving into her old family home while renovation works are ongoing, Brigid believes the stress of her divorce has affected her sanity. Why else would Moving into her old family home while renovation works are ongoing, Brigid believes the stress of her divorce has affected her sanity. Why else would she be hearing the resident cat talking to her? A visit to a doctor reunites her with an old boyfriend, and bring the information that no, she’s not going mad, but magic is real, and her magical heritage has been hidden from her. Now, to protect herself, she must find the artifacts that contain it. And then her builder—who happens to be a werewolf—falls to his death from the scaffolding around her house, and it appears a curse is responsible. The opening of this book seems a little familiar, having read the prequel, Splintercat. But of course, at the end of that story Brigid’s memory is wiped, and so she sees things afresh all over again. Once I’d confirmed I wasn’t reading the same book over again, I settled comfortably into this one. However, being a full-length novel, it doesn’t have the pace of the preceding novelette, and at times, for me, it lacked narrative drive. Brigid’s unquestioning acceptance of magic was a bit hard to swallow, and while Craig’s death is shocking, Brigid carries on with her life almost as it hasn’t changed in so many fundamental ways in such a short space of time. Splintered Magic is an easy read, well written and visually clear with highly distinct characters and great dialogue. Mr. Mittens clearly has a different approach to events, but then he comes from a different dimension, and he’s a cat, so that was believable too. On the downside I found some of Brigid’s choices to be a bit silly in order to further the plot, and I wish there had been a ‘ticking clock’ much earlier on to create a more gripping read. The finale picks up the pace and I wizzed through that, only to find a massive dangling thread introduced to give us a cliff hanger ending. I’m quite invested in the characters and the story, but with my extreme dislike of cliff hangers the jury is currently out on whether I will read the next in series. ...more
In the aftermath of a messy divorce, Brigid returns to her family home and buys the dilapidated, empty house despite the enormous challenge of extensiIn the aftermath of a messy divorce, Brigid returns to her family home and buys the dilapidated, empty house despite the enormous challenge of extensive renovation. What she’d reckoned without, is finding a cat already in residence – a cat that looks just like her childhood feline, Mr Mittens. And then he starts talking to her... I really enjoyed this short read – well-written, great characters, and a blistering pace which packs a great deal of both story line and world-building into just 66 pages. Oh, and Mr Mittens is awesome! I would love to have a Splintercat as a companion. As a freebie prequel to an existing series this novella did its job admirably – I immediately bought book #1, Splintered Magic....more
I so enjoyed visiting with Joyce, Elizabeth and the gang again. Once more, Osman takes this tale in truly unanticipated directions I won’t detail becaI so enjoyed visiting with Joyce, Elizabeth and the gang again. Once more, Osman takes this tale in truly unanticipated directions I won’t detail because I would hate to spoil the surprises that make this yet another of those books I didn’t want to put down. Suffice it to say, that members of the Thursday Murder Club other than Elizabeth really shine this time, going down their own investigative routes, and keeping secrets not only from their long-suffering police buddies, but also from each other. They have chosen an intriguing cold case to investigate this time – one with no body, but several celebrities who might be persuaded to visit for a chat with the elderly, innocent (!!) residents of a quiet care home. The bonus material at the end (the Waterstone’s Special Edition of this book), Joyce’s first attempt at a short story (murder mystery, of course), was just the icing on the cake. If you’ve not read the previous 2 volumes, then go and do so. Delving into these books is like visiting with a beloved elderly relative who has a thrilling past (and present!) that you can’t wait to hear all about. ...more
This turned into one of those series I had to binge read, and I don’t do that often, believe me. I have now read all six, and it was worth it. In thisThis turned into one of those series I had to binge read, and I don’t do that often, believe me. I have now read all six, and it was worth it. In this opening story we are introduced to Josie, the strong-minded daughter of the local doctor. She is the village midwife, but is banned from studying to be a doctor simply because she is a woman. When Josie meets Hammer, the Captain of the Palace Guards, her life begins to change in startling ways she would have believed impossible. The charming slow-burn romance runs the length of the series, which takes in the presence of magic few believe exists, royalty (or is it?), nobles both fair-minded and foul, commoners struggling with their lots in life, and a medieval-style society riddled with injustices and prejudice. Beneath it all is a bizarre mystery: none of the palace staff have any memories from before they woke up knowing their allotted roles as servants, guards, cooks, gardeners etc. When the king’s favourite lady is poisoned, the doctor is called, taking Josie to the palace as his assistant. Once she stumbles onto the secret of the lost memories, she simply cannot walk away, placing her in danger she’s unaware of at all turns. Set against solid and imaginative world building, all the characters are vividly and highly individually drawn, with the prose and dialogue all flowing past without drawing attention – always a sign of great writing. Whilst the mystery of the poisoning is wrapped up in a satisfying manner by the end of this book, the ongoing questions about the staff memory loss will drag you straight on into the next book. If you enjoy great characters, a strong female lead, mysteries abounding, and plenty of twists and turns in the plot, then this series is for you. ...more
Stevie’s an ex-witch. Back before, when she still had her powers, her speciality was helping departed souls embrace the afterlife. But then she was puStevie’s an ex-witch. Back before, when she still had her powers, her speciality was helping departed souls embrace the afterlife. But then she was punished (and there is more about that unjust situation later in the book) by having her abilities slapped right out of her. Now, she’s having to adapt to a non-magical life, with no job, no income, and no home. Tough, right? And to compound her problems, her familiar, a bat called Belfry, tells her he’s been contacted by a spirit desperate for her help, but without her powers, she can’t hear him. Exploring further puts her at the scene of a murder, and suddenly she’s also a suspect. This book is a great fun amalgamation of paranormal and cosy mystery – just perfect! Stevie is a great character, Belfry is totally adorable, and the departed spirit, ex-spy Winterbottom (Win) is the quintessential British secret agent, with so many surprises up his sleeve it’s hard for Stevie to keep up with him. The small-town seaside setting is charming and well described, so easy to visualise. The cast of supporting characters, and the red herrings, are all thoroughly enjoyable. I so enjoyed this read, combining (very successfully) as it does two of my favourite genres, that I plan to read the next very soon – always a good recommendation as I will only continue with series if they really grab me, and this one did. ...more
Anne and her friends are excited for the opening of their new B&B – a themed weekend with lessons in herbs and the making of an award-winning cordial.Anne and her friends are excited for the opening of their new B&B – a themed weekend with lessons in herbs and the making of an award-winning cordial. But when the guests arrive, it turns out that the four ladies are old acquaintances, not all on the best of terms with each other, and the sole husband who has tagged along means something to more than one of them. With a suspicious death, strange sounds in the old building, and a blizzard stranding them all together, it’s up to Anne to figure out what’s really going on. This book follows on from Chicken Culprit, which I enjoyed as an easy read. The characters were appealing enough to make me want to read more about them, and I’m glad I did. While guessing the identity of the victim is straightforward, the murderer is more of a fun challenge. The twists and turns in the various relationships kept me guessing, and the only thing that didn’t work well for me was their names – all variations on Elizabeth. I got the reason for this, but keeping them straight in my head until I was well into the book was a bit harder work than I wanted. As a charming way to spend a bit of time, I can recommend this series for those who enjoy cosy mysteries in a small-town setting, with a bit of murder on the side. ...more
Rakel has the misfortune to be born into a land that fears and vilifies magic. Despite being a royal princess, she is locked alone in a tower as a chiRakel has the misfortune to be born into a land that fears and vilifies magic. Despite being a royal princess, she is locked alone in a tower as a child, and eventually exiled to the far edge of the kingdom, where she uses her magic to build the ice castle she calls home. When the kingdom comes calling for her help to defeat magic-using invaders, why should she help them? Disarmed by two children who have no fear of her, and Oskar, the servant who has served her faithfully, she agrees to try. Fearful for her life much of the time, she must navigate enemies both in front and behind her, gradually gathering a cohort of supporters that strangely includes one of the enemy generals. This is an unusual tale, even for one with its origins in a fairy tale. Rakel is beautifully drawn, both her fears and her powers, and especially her innate goodness. Her companions are also well developed, particularly Phile the Robber Maiden, who brings humour to an otherwise relentless story of war. I liked that Rakel’s power, which originally seemed to be limitless and unassailable, turned out to have a price that both moves the book along, and brings it to its ultimate climax. The romance is gentle and sweet, and redemptive for both parties. I was surprised when the story ended after 2 books, seeing as there were 3 in the bundle. I believe the third is a collection of short stories featuring Rakel, but I decided not to read it. This was a story I enjoyed, but not enough to want to read more. ...more
‘Fifteen First Times’ fully describes this short, entertaining read in D G Kaye’s inimitable open and honest style – no subject is too difficult to ap‘Fifteen First Times’ fully describes this short, entertaining read in D G Kaye’s inimitable open and honest style – no subject is too difficult to approach or describe. As with some other reviewers, there were several experiences I didn’t relate to, but found Kaye’s explanations of them engaging and sometimes eye-opening. The one that amused me most was ‘From Blonde to Wrong’. I began experimenting with dying my own hair quite early in my teens, and also chose to go red – a colour that both my cousins have by nature, and I coveted. Unlike Kaye, my first foray into hair colouring was using henna, and I was pleased with the results, so I have continued to dye my own hair, and the only time I ever got it done at a salon was the one time it turned out so dark it was almost black and I hated it – just as happened to Kaye with her first home effort! No matter how painful the memories of some of these ‘firsts’, Kaye does not shy away from sharing the depths of feelings she experienced, and still manages to highlight the humour that characterises her welcome positive approach to life. I’m sure everyone will find some ‘firsts’ applicable to them – well worth the read. ...more
I will say now that Regency Romance is not my regular fare, although I have read a couple. This one was considerably steamier than those, but I was prI will say now that Regency Romance is not my regular fare, although I have read a couple. This one was considerably steamier than those, but I was prepared for that! Lady Fury is a wonderful creation – a strong, smart, sassy woman with a dubious background she works hard to conceal, having successfully married into genuine aristocracy. Unfortunately, her husband has inconveniently died and the only way she can keep her hands on his fortune is if she was pregnant with his heir. Also unfortunately, she isn’t. Fury, however, is determined to rectify that. Holding a little book stuffed with secrets, she is in the perfect position to blackmail a number of aristo lords into doing her bidding, which in this case means acting as sperm donor to conceive that heir as fast as possible. Naturally, things don’t go to plan. Enter pirate captain Flint, currently a slave of one of Fury’s marks. Oh, and he happens to also be the scoundrel who broke her heart and left her behind, penniless (and pregnant) on the docks a few years earlier. As circumstances have it, Flint is the most able of the men on offer, and so Fury is forced to make a deal with him. The expected sparks fly, along with raging emotions and unpredictable twists and turns to this turbulent relationship. Both characters are vividly drawn, and at the mercy of their individual pre-conceptions (pun intended). The supporting character of Susan is always there to help, although I did wonder why she was so loyal to Fury. Told to a large extent in dialogue, the spats between characters were alternately hilarious and poignant. I did find some of Fury’s assumptions and predictions rather difficult to follow at times, leaving me to want to give a 4.5-star rating, but of course I’m not allowed to be that precise. The story ends in the satisfactory manner one hopes it will, although it seems impossible at many times that it will. Kudos to the author for getting us there! ...more
The queen of Verdane died in childbirth, delivering a stillborn daughter. It should all have ended there, but the crippled necromancer Barus breathed The queen of Verdane died in childbirth, delivering a stillborn daughter. It should all have ended there, but the crippled necromancer Barus breathed life into the infant and raised her as his own. Aster’s loving, innocent childhood is shattered when the Vicar of the Red Order, a man who holds Barus responsible for the death of his eldest son, comes hunting them. Separated from her beloved father and forced to flee, Aster leads the hunters away to enable Barus to escape. And then she meets Joreh, the Vicar’s younger son, a man with a conscience and a true sense of justice. He abhors Aster for her ability to raise the dead, and the fact she was born dead herself, and yet he cannot condone the Order’s edict to execute her without trial. And so begins a massive adventure that takes in magic, dragons, a quest through a dangerous forest, kingdoms at war and kingdoms trying to prevent war, a struggle for the crown of Verdane, and a highly complex relationship between Aster and Joreh. The pace leaves no room for a breath and Peach’s compelling cast, including the well-developed secondary characters, kept me reading well into the night. Peach does not shy from the horrors of persecution and the violence of war, not to mention the schemes of rulers using innocents regardless of consequences, in this richly imagined world evoked by the author’s exquisite prose. I won’t expound on the ending, as that would be too easy to spoil for the reader, I just suggest that if you adore excellent world building, unusual quirky characters, magic, and a plot that while not overly complicated, is highly satisfying, you go ahead and read it. ...more
Colt Layne is my kinda man! Retired bronc rider, now this handsome cowboy runs a horse sanctuary on the ranch he inherited from his grandfather, and hColt Layne is my kinda man! Retired bronc rider, now this handsome cowboy runs a horse sanctuary on the ranch he inherited from his grandfather, and heads a successful rock band. Then one day, a stranger arrives, claiming he won the ranch from Colt’s grandfather in a card game years ago. He has no proof, but he’s clearly out to make trouble. Colt decides he needs answers from his deceased grandfather, and with some trepidation, consults a medium. What he doesn’t expect, is that the medium is a gorgeous woman who quickens his previously hardened heart. And then strange things start happening at the ranch – dangerous things. And when Colt goes to confront the stranger who claims the ranch is his, he finds the man dying in his motel room. Unfortunately, Colt had previously threatened the man in public, so instantly becomes the prime suspect. This is a curious mixture of light paranormal, murder mystery and love story. It works quite well, although it keeps the pace quite steady. I absolutely loved the characters and the setting, and the writing provided me with vivid images and experiences of events. Unlike a traditional romance, there is no conflict in the developing relationship between Colt and Sage – tension is reserved for the nasty goings-on at the ranch and the murder charge. The resolution is exciting and poignant all in one, with a satisfying ending. This is outside my regular reading choices, but I’m glad I picked it up. Although it’s the third book in a series, it stood all on its own just fine. ...more
What can I add to my opinions of the previous book in this jaw-dropping series? Every time you think you know where this story is going, it takes a drWhat can I add to my opinions of the previous book in this jaw-dropping series? Every time you think you know where this story is going, it takes a dramatic unexpected turn. As Fitz and the Fool journey towards Clerres to wreak revenge on the corrupt Servants of the White Prophets, their mission is constantly diverted by the people they meet along the way, re-introducing us to characters and lands from other Hobb’s series, most notably the dragons and the liveships. Any reader would be well advised to delve into earlier series to fully understand the frequently shocking twists and turns of this, the final volume of Fitz’s story. Hobb is at her masterful best with this book – wringing every last drop of emotion from the reader as we travel with these beloved characters, and answering along the way mysteries you often didn’t realise she’d posed in her earlier works. Both joyous and heart-wrenchingly sad, we say a final goodbye to characters we’ve lived with for years, or indeed, decades, as the story draws to an incredibly satisfying conclusion. Thank you, Robin Hobb, for being the exquisite story-teller that you are. ...more
Well. Having decreed that the first volume in this series was rather slow, and more of a character study (very beautifully drawn, as one would expect Well. Having decreed that the first volume in this series was rather slow, and more of a character study (very beautifully drawn, as one would expect from this author) than a plot-driven story, this one hits the ground running and never lets up. Picking up instantly on the calamitous events at the ending of volume 1, poor Bee is enduring a range of hardships in her captivity, some inflicted upon her and some, seemingly the consequence of her odd nature. Back in Buckkeep Castle, Fitz is in ignorance of his daughter’s plight, but assailed by the Fool’s demands for vengeance upon those who tortured him to the edge of life and left him twisted and broken, both physically and mentally. Castle politics seethe as ever, and Fitz, finally revealed to the public as a Farseer prince (and oh, what a lovely scene that way!), is thoroughly off-balance, no longer sure where he fits in. Even before the delayed news of Bee’s kidnapping is discovered, events turn at a startling pace, which only ramps up when suspicions rise about the strange lack of contact from Fitz’s home. The reader is subjected to the artfully designed frustration of knowing what is happening to Bee while Fitz does not, while at the same time being driven to read as fast as possible to find out what will happen when he does. At times, perhaps the suspense is sustained over-long, but when you set out to read a Robin Hobb book, you accept it’s going to be a long read, filled with exquisite detail and fraught with fantastic emotional depth. I barely paused to take a breath at the end, before diving into the final volume of this set....more
Disclaimer: I am not a huge fan of short stories, and yet I fully appreciate the skills that go into writing them. I would not generally pick up a booDisclaimer: I am not a huge fan of short stories, and yet I fully appreciate the skills that go into writing them. I would not generally pick up a book of shorts, but having read some of Clair’s novels I know what a fantastic imagination she has, coupled with a superb ability to drag the reader right into the heart of a story. Ans as predicted, that’s exactly what happened. As ever with a collection, some stories resonated more with me than others, but every single one was worth the read, with more than one gasp/laugh out loud twist endings. Some are grim, some uplifting, but make no mistake – these shorts are masterful pieces of work set in a wide range of speculative fiction sub-genres. Without question, this collection kept me reading from one fascinating story to the next without pause. It will do the same for you....more
In Rio, Sofia’s set to marry the wealthy man of her dreams, and yet she’s still experiencing qualms. The wedding is rushing towards her, but her attenIn Rio, Sofia’s set to marry the wealthy man of her dreams, and yet she’s still experiencing qualms. The wedding is rushing towards her, but her attention is not fully where both their families believe it should be. Rather, she is focussed on the unfolding tragedy of her daughter Ida’s failing sight. In the UK, former Scottish soldier turned male escort, Cal, bumps into an old army friend who’s struggling with his health. Before he knows it, Cal’s agreed to help out by taking on some of his friend’s tour guide work, even knowing his decision will upset his rather possessive boss, who fancies there might be more between her and Cal than he wants. When the chance comes for Ida to potentially receive experimental treatment that might save her sight, despite her impending nuptials Sofia seizes the slim hope and arranges to fly Ida to London. While waiting for test results, everyone agrees Ida should be taken on a trip to the place she desires to visit the most – the Scottish Highlands – to store up memories in case these are the final places she will see. Back in Rio, Sofia’s fiancé, a man accustomed to arranging things exactly how he wants them, books them a tour guide – an older, reliable man whom Sofia can be entrusted with. Little do any of them know that, unknown to the tour company, there has been a change of guide.... Beautifully written, Green has a talent for drawing scenery you can almost smell, and characters who go straight for your heart. You can’t help but wonder how the story threads will pan out, even though with a romance tag, you can be sure that love will eventually conquer all. Entwined in the slow-burn romance are themes of being true to oneself, and facing decisions on how far you are willing to compromise your own happiness for the sake of others. I must admit, I felt sorry for the consequences that Sofia’s decisions have on her impoverished family, while rooting for her to make those same choices – very real-world dilemmas. The sections in Scotland held only one issue for me – the author’s geography is somewhat inaccurate, but that will probably only leap out at someone like me, who actually lives in the Highlands. The parts that do take place in the Highlands evoke the truly breath-taking beauty and romance of the region, which works its quiet magic to bring events to a head. If you are captivated by the beautiful, magical grandeur of the Scottish Highlands, and a believer in true love, then this gentle romance is an ideal book for you. ...more
This second instalment of the Thursday Murder Club is even better than the first. As the characters are already familiar, it took me no time to get riThis second instalment of the Thursday Murder Club is even better than the first. As the characters are already familiar, it took me no time to get right into the thick of things, unlike the first book. Elizabeth’s past in MI5 comes back to haunt her. An old colleague, who is a little more to her than just a colleague, is in hiding and wants her help. He’s chosen to hole up in Coopers Chase retirement complex, which pretty much guarantees that no matter how she feels about the situation, Elizabeth can’t ignore it, and feels it’s important to bring the rest of the club into the picture as dangerous things might be about to happen in their cosy home. Which, of course, is exactly what happens. There are several disparate plot threads running through this novel, which eventually dovetail together in a most satisfying manner. It does make for a long book, but that’s all to its advantage, as it’s a good book. I still dislike stories told in present tense, but I’m learning to live with it. It does impart an immediacy, while on the downside we only get to see a limited world view, being restricted to the limits of each characters’ perspective. Joyce’s diary entries are as hilarious as ever, as she gets to grips with the lives of spies, and struggles with her Instagram account, @GreatJoy69. She’s delighted that she has garnered a thousand messages, but can’t figure out how to read them. I gather that this very English book is proving popular in the States too, which is surely testament to Osman’s astute observations of the challenges faced by older generations, and his ability to bring home both the sadness and the hilarity of growing old. Highly recommended for any who might enjoy the quirky concept of a bunch of septuagenarians running rings around MI5, the police, a local crime boss, and the mafia!...more
Lady Anne Coke is a remarkable young woman who, despite being the Earl of Leicester’s granddaughter, works as a travelling sales rep for the family poLady Anne Coke is a remarkable young woman who, despite being the Earl of Leicester’s granddaughter, works as a travelling sales rep for the family pottery run by her mother and sister (all true!). When her grandfather dies suddenly, and in slightly mysterious circumstances, she must return home and help her family pick up the pieces. Being of a curious nature, and because her father won’t countenance the scandal that would arise by getting the police involved, Anne takes it upon herself to dig into the curious events surrounding the unexpected death. This entire story is a fictionalised version of Lady Anne’s real life, drawing by turns on her youth in post war austerity, and her childhood during World War 2. Told in alternating sections of these two time periods, the somewhat shocking events of Anne’s childhood, when she was abused by a sadistic governess, unfold gradually as the memories she has long buried crawl back to the surface. At the climax of the story, she discovers that the key to the puzzle of her grandfather’s death is actually locked away inside her own head. While a few totally fictional characters have been added, Lady Anne uses her family’s real names, and much of her own real experiences to bring authenticity to the fictional riddle. Details of how her class of family raised their children, and ran their estates, are all genuine, adding historical interest to a story that is a little slow to develop, and written in Lady Anne’s distinctive older, but none-the-less charming, style. A truly unusual fusion of reality and fiction, this latest book by the former lady-in-waiting to Princess Margaret is an engrossing read which would appeal to lovers of Downton Abbey and the like....more
Anne Clenconner is in a unique position to write this book. The central character, Lady Vee, is a thinly veiled version of herself, drawing on her extAnne Clenconner is in a unique position to write this book. The central character, Lady Vee, is a thinly veiled version of herself, drawing on her extraordinary life-story as detailed in her memoir, ‘Lady in Waiting’. I suspect many of the other characters in this novel are firmly based upon real people, but that only adds to the charm of this quiet murder mystery that builds from a series of odd events starting with the disappearance of a young American heiress. The island and its inhabitants, drawn with loving care, are trapped on the island by an approaching tropical storm, so the answers must lie with the residents. Lady Vee delves into the mystery, rather innocently unaware of the danger she might be placing herself in, but then she’s known most everyone for decades – how could one of them possibly be a murderer? The writing does somewhat betray both the privileged background and the age of the author. The lifestyles of the wealthy villa owners seem rather stuck in the past (though perhaps not?), and many of the sentences demand a couple of reads for clarity - the sentence construction is not what we are used to reading in modern books - but in a way that almost adds to the charm. If you are happy reading a murder mystery that proceeds at a gentle pace, with a rather laissez-faire Caribbean attitude, you will undoubtedly enjoy this book, which has a nice twist in the tail ending. ...more
I picked this book up after reading Murder on Mustique, curious to know more about the real life of a lady in waiting to Princess Margaret. In fact, AnI picked this book up after reading Murder on Mustique, curious to know more about the real life of a lady in waiting to Princess Margaret. In fact, Anne Coke (pronounced ‘Cook’), was a childhood friend of both princesses - their father, King George VI, was a frequent visitor to the family home, Holkham Hall, which stands close to the royal residence, Sandringham. With such a unique background, how could Anne’s story be anything other than extraordinary? As it turns out, her life story is beyond extraordinary – a glimpse into a world of privilege, of eccentricity, of stiff upper lips to survive highs and lows beyond anything I expected. A truly spectacular tale, all the more remarkable for being a true accounting, offered up by the lady herself, and not a random biographer. Another review accuses the tale of being ‘dispiriting’, reading about Lady Anne’s ‘ghastly dysfunctional’ social class - people who apparently have everything and yet often end up destroying their own lives. I disagree: to me, much of the dysfunctionality evident is more about era than simply about class. It’s a sad indictment of the prejudices and expectations people were subjected to, and about the self-inflicted harm done to generations of people who lived through the war, and immediate post-war years. If nothing else, this book goes to prove the adage that money can’t buy happiness, although there are many joyous tales, and the author succeeds in keeping an upbeat tone throughout her very matter of fact telling of a tumultuous range of events and emotions. If you want an insight into the realities of living through the worst – and best – of the last century, you won’t go wrong with this book. ‘My Extraordinary Life’ is no empty tagline. ...more
Having started a different cosy and given up within 2 pages, annoyed by the amateurish writing, I was relieved to find this one competently written, eHaving started a different cosy and given up within 2 pages, annoyed by the amateurish writing, I was relieved to find this one competently written, even if the frequent formatting errors were slightly annoying. We are chicken keepers, so the title drew my eye, and then the offer of a country-living themed easy read murder mystery sealed the deal. Wanting to put the past behind her, Anne buys an old Victorian she plans to do up. Almost immediately she becomes embroiled in local life when she sees one neighbour chasing another neighbour’s chicken, axe in hand, furious to find said hen, Rusty, on his property yet again. Enter ditsy but charmingly sweet hen keeper, Kandi. Rusty escapes her fate, but next morning Anne finds her chicken-hating neighbour dead in his compost heap, and now she’s so involved she needs to discover who dunnit. This is a charming, easy read, with feeling. I sailed through it in short order and enjoyed it, even though I found it weird that Kandi was so devoted to her slimy husband, and I was irritated by the ‘big reveal’ about who Anne really was. With the story told from Anne’s viewpoint, I felt her thought processes should have given us some subtle clues rather than just landing the truth in one big hit – I felt somewhat misled. Overall though, if you are looking for a light cosy, with country living as a background, you won’t go wrong with this one.
Sora’s life is a conundrum from the outset. Sole heir of a nobleman who can’t seem to abide his daughter, she has lived a lonely life on her father’s Sora’s life is a conundrum from the outset. Sole heir of a nobleman who can’t seem to abide his daughter, she has lived a lonely life on her father’s country estate. A lavish celebration is planned for her coming-of-age birthday, at which she is expected to perform ‘the blooming’ – a rather sensuous ritual dance designed to show her off to potential suitors. For this momentous event, her father returns from the city, only to fall victim to an assassination during the festivities. Intent on fleeing her stultifying life, Sora doesn’t realise the cause of the furore, and makes her bid for freedom, only to become entangled with her father’s assassin. She ends up the captive of a small group of renegades, dragged away from the only life she’s known to discover the world is a far larger and more deadly place than she ever imagined. Things get even more complicated when the one memento she carries of her mysterious, unknown mother, turns out to be a Cat’s Eye – a magical artifact that can steal souls. Now everybody wants her – and her necklace - including the law, because Sora stands accused of plotting her father’s murder. This is a rattling good read - the interplay between the highly individual characters is great, the story steams along at a smart pace and drags the reader along with it through adventures and landscapes well described and interesting. There were a few irritations small for me, in particular that well into the grim journey through the swampland, Sora questioned why they had brought the horses with them, as they were finding it hard to feed them, and they were also difficult to take along some of the ‘safe’ routes. Then the quartet get captured, and that’s the last they even think about the poor beasts! Never mentioned, or even thought about, again. Viewpoint changes were rather jarring. Although full sections were told exclusively from a single character’s point of view, the changes happened abruptly in the text without the breaks more usually used to denote a transfer of viewpoint. This made them somewhat of a surprise, even though it was consistent throughout the book. Other than those small details, I would recommend this to fantasy readers, and I’m about to go onto the next in series. ...more
Described as an ‘epic fantasy retelling of Tristan and Isolde’, the story opening is all about the ritual of royal matches – each princess must leave Described as an ‘epic fantasy retelling of Tristan and Isolde’, the story opening is all about the ritual of royal matches – each princess must leave her home for the kingdom of her new mate. But this time, deceit is afoot. The prince that Lyana chooses to give herself to, turns out to not be the man who participated in the trials. It’s way more complicated than that, but suffice it to say the first half of this book dwells on the set-up for what is obviously going to be an expansive plot, taking in not only the floating worlds we are first introduced to, but the unknown world below and forbidden magic, along with fearsome dragon attacks. The descriptions, the characters, the development of the impossible-to-resolve love triangle, and emotional manipulation of the reader are all as masterful as I would expect from this skilful writer. However, issues with the worldbuilding bothered me right from the outset. If you have a land that has been shrouded in mist for hundreds of years, and a population that has never seen the sun, what do they eat? Nothing will grow on land under those circumstances. Perhaps, as this seems to be a maritime culture, they eat exclusively from the sea, but I wanted to know that! Of course, the biggest downside for me was the cliff-hanger ending – my pet hate. I could see by half way through that this story would never resolve in one book, and that’s fine – I love series. I do, however, like some sort of resolution to something at the end of each book, which did not happen here. There is a climax, yes, but it simply pulls everything apart in the lives of the main characters, and then stops. From my perspective, the first half of the book was unnecessarily long. It could have stood to be a lot more compact, and taken our characters further into the next book before breaking. I’m not sure if that would work, but I won’t find out, because I have too many niggles over this one to continue with the next in series. ...more
Charming, dear reader, splendidly charming. I was drawn to this book by the quirky title and the promise of a light and fluffy Regency romance completeCharming, dear reader, splendidly charming. I was drawn to this book by the quirky title and the promise of a light and fluffy Regency romance complete with dragons. My only disappointment was that the dragons involved are all small enough to sit on a lady’s shoulder during afternoon tea. Other than that, it fully delivered on its promise. Our heroine, dear reader, is the much put-upon poor relation, Elinor. Being forced to keep her manners around her frightful, spoilt cousin, Penelope, finally becomes too much when Penelope frightens her draconic fashion accessory – the delightfully-named Sir Jessamyn,- into pooping on her dress. Throwing all caution to the wind, Elinor removes her cousin’s expensive fashion statement and with his heretofore hidden magical assistance, embarks upon an unexpected adventure fraught with complications too numerous and wondrously strange to recount here. An enchanting and satisfying tale, this is the perfect read for fantasy-inclined Bridgerton fans! Highly recommended for an undemanding getaway from reality, and I shall definitely be reading the next as soon as it is published. ...more
Kristine Kathryn Rusch is a multiple award-winning author with a huge catalogue of books behind her. The Fey is an old series she’s been meaning to geKristine Kathryn Rusch is a multiple award-winning author with a huge catalogue of books behind her. The Fey is an old series she’s been meaning to get back to for years. Enter the Kickstarter she ran to, well, kick herself back into action, and where I picked up the entire series. Naturally, I began with book #1, The Sacrifice. I had no real idea what to expect, but I must admit this wasn’t it. The world building is detailed and vast, the numerous characters well drawn and well written. The plot was where it fell apart for me. I assumed we would follow Jewel’s story, as she was the first character we met, but it turned out she was just one of (too) many, and after a fast, grim, start, the story settles down into not really going anywhere, with even the characters frustrated with the lack of progress. I found the number of viewpoint characters rather over the top, and some story threads that clearly lead onto the following books rather unentwined with the main plot of this volume. But for me, the biggest turn off was the unpleasantness of so many characters. I am not averse to vile things happening in fantasy – when stories involve wars, that’s only to be expected. But so many of the characters were horrible people, with no redeeming features, I didn’t enjoy reading about them. I also found it a great stretch to imagine a race (the fey) who possess such drastically varied and mostly hideous, magical talents. It was like the author’s head was swimming with ideas, and she felt compelled to bestow them all upon a single race. Yes, I finished it, to see where it was going. Will I read more? The jury is out on that one. I might try the prequel novella she wrote for the Kickstarter, and see what I think then. There is a resolution of sorts at the end, for which I was grateful, but I’m not sure I loved either of the (sort of) main characters enough to follow through, especially when they seemed rather secondary to the plot. ...more
This starts with a truly gruesome death - if that's not your thing, at least you'll know not to read any further! The victim is a member of the ShadowThis starts with a truly gruesome death - if that's not your thing, at least you'll know not to read any further! The victim is a member of the Shadow Service - a fellow officer and friend of Wold Dasher, the agent sent to investigate. The tagline of James Bond meets Game of Thrones is very apt - Wolf has all the characteristics of Bond, including the arrogance, and the ability to be only mildly offended when a woman he's slept with becomes another victim of the magical killer. The brutality and shock deaths of well-drawn characters are very Game of Thrones. I was intrigued enough with the plot to continue reading, but I must say I didn't really warm to Wolf. There's plenty of action, fascinating world building, and easy-to-read prose, making it a 3 and a half star read for me. If plot and action are your bag, its worth the read, but I didn't empathise enough with the main character to want to read the next in series....more
Sabine’s world is peopled by magical races, along with humans stranded there in the aftermath of a war between gods and dragons. What, precisely, SabiSabine’s world is peopled by magical races, along with humans stranded there in the aftermath of a war between gods and dragons. What, precisely, Sabine herself is, we are left to wonder and suspect for much of the story, as she is clearly in hiding. The story takes off running, with an assassination attempt on Sabine’s life, and introduces us quickly to Malek, a mysterious smuggler, clearly also with secrets to hide, and demon brothers, Dax and Bane, both of whom are sworn to protect Sabine for reasons – and in manners – we are left to ponder for quite some time. This is a fast-paced, intriguing and entertaining novel, well written with excellent dialogue and a fair-sized cast of well-developed characters. The world building is fantastically intricate and logical, with details dispersed throughout the book so you never feel overwhelmed. The climax is thrilling and wraps up this novel nicely, yet leads straight into the next one. For me, the sign of a good novel is when you reach the end and immediately buy the next one, which I did! ...more
Frances is the author of nineteen romance novels, but she’s twice divorced and had just been duped by an internet scammer. She wants to make some chanFrances is the author of nineteen romance novels, but she’s twice divorced and had just been duped by an internet scammer. She wants to make some changes in her life – including losing a little weight here and there – so she has booked into a health and wellness retreat for a 10-day ‘cleanse’ that promises to ‘change her life’. One of a group of nine, which includes a family struggling to deal with emotional issues, a lottery-winning young couple being torn apart by their unexpected wealth, plus some singles with their own varied issues, they put their lives in the hands of Masha, who promises they will leave the retreat as ‘different people’. Not wishing to give any spoilers, as a large part of the enjoyment of this book is in discovering the secrets each individual is hiding, including Masha, I will say that for me this went in a totally unforeseen direction, and I was left amused and satisfied by the irony of the endings for each of the nine. Different? Definitely. Quite what they were expecting? Not so much. I really enjoyed the writing. I hadn’t passed page 1, before this description made me smile: ‘She wore a tailored business suit like a punishment, the jacket uncomfortably tight across her shoulders’. My only surprise was the over-abundance of exclamation marks! Frequently several to a page! After a while, I got used to them, I just found them unnecessary and a little distracting. Overall, an enjoyable, if somewhat unrealistic, read. ...more
A luxury retirement complex near the UK south coast. A small group of affluent pensioners of varied backgrounds with time on their hands. A former polA luxury retirement complex near the UK south coast. A small group of affluent pensioners of varied backgrounds with time on their hands. A former police detective with a file of documents of cold cases, and a retired – well, what exactly was Elizabeth? A spy, no doubt, but despite the many hints and the scope of her contacts in all walks of life, we never quite discover who she worked for. But no matter. The Thursday Murder Club keeps the group’s minds occupied and active, staving off the inevitable decline so in evidence in an environment such as theirs. And then a real murder on their doorstep plunges them into a live investigation, and nothing the police say can keep their involvement from escalating as conflicting evidence sends the official, and unofficial, investigators in different directions. This is a charming, often hilarious story, told partially through the diary of one of the club members: Joyce, a retired nurse, who had been drafted in to fill a club spot left open by the ill-health of a founder member. Her observations and mental divergencies are reminiscent of many older minds I’ve encountered, and where I fear mine is likely to go in time! The 4, rather than 5, stars is because I struggled to get into this book at the beginning. I’ve never been a fan of present tense, and the somewhat rambling opening did not immediately grab me. However, by a couple of chapters in, I was hooked, and the rest just flowed and became more and more enjoyable as the characters grew more real to me. I am very much looking forward to reading the next one. ...more
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