Trashionista: Rating: 4/5

August 31, 2011 10:39 PM

BOOK REVIEW: How to Leave Twitter by Grace Dent

Having always been quite the fan of Grace Dent - author, TV critic and columnist - I was pleased when the news of her book, How to Leave Twitter: My Time as Queen of the Universe and Why this Must Stop, was released. I've always found Grace to be very witty, always giving a blunt and amusing insight into life (and of course, television), and so had an inkling that this book was going to be a fun read. I was right.

Let me just say that up until recently, I wasn't an avid user of Twitter. Then I gained a new job in which tweeting was a must, and I've suddenly become an addict, craving to know more about this social networking phenomenon. Grace, an extremely popular Twitter user with a VERY high follower count, has been entertaining the masses in 140 characters or less for quite some time, and let's face it, she knows her stuff.

At the beginning of the book, Grace describes how what started out as a place to post observations and TV rants soon turned into something she couldn't live without. Twitter and its addictive tendencies caused her to quickly become reliant and of course, highly entertaining. In How to Leave Twitter, Grace goes on to describe Twitter and her experiences with it in her usual hilarious manner, and a lot of chapters in list form. For someone like myself who's quickly getting used to Twitter (and quite possibly becoming addicted to it too!), it was a fantastically funny insight.

But for those who generally aren't huge fans of Twitter (or Grace, for that matter), this book may not be for you. It's not a long book, but the humour made up for it, although if you don't particularly understand the ins and outs of the site then you might just be a little confused.

In all honesty I had expected more from this book, rather than merely Grace's opinions on Twitter. That's pretty much all this book is, and it's quite a short one, which is why I'm only awarding it four stars. However, it was an enjoyable read, something I could partially relate to, and I'd love to read more from Grace (book of memoirs...please?). She's funny, honest and has the Twitter expertise to pull this off but it's more of a novelty book than a serious book (in the beginning Grace mentions how she and her agent came up with the idea for How To Leave Twitter whilst trying to think of a novel plot). But if you love Twitter? It's a must-read.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on August 31, 2011 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (11)

April 6, 2011 6:43 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Crystal Balls by Amanda Brobyn

I'd been looking forward to reading Crystal Balls for a long time, having been entranced by its gorgeous cover. Seriously, I'm like a book-cover magpie, and absolutely loved this one. Also, being a fan of the paranormal made me drawn to this book as well. After all, it focuses on a successful estate agent whose life is about to change after visiting a psychic fair. It was an intriguing premise, and needless to say I was eager to get my hands on it.

This is Amanda Brobyn's debut novel, published by Poolbeg Press, who have brought us some great authors including the lovely Claire Allan, and released in late February. So I had an inkling that this was going to be good, and Amanda doesn't disappoint.

Having left her past as a struggling actress far behind her, estate agent Tina enjoys her life. She's a successful businesswoman about to expand her agency, with her pretty, hardworking assistant Chantelle to help her. However, when Chantelle begs her to come along to a psychic fair, Tina can't be more unconvinced. A non-believer in all things mystical, Tina goes along merely to accompany her wide-eyed friend, immediately shunning the idea that a crystal ball could hold secrets of the future. However, a meeting with a medium is about to change Tina's life for good...

The crystal ball tells Tina to trust her own decisions, and to expect the arrival of her soulmate anytime soon. And what's more, they probably already know each other. With this in mind, Tina becomes more expectant and dependant on what the stars may bring. And when handsome, confident property developer Brian Steen walks into her life as a work colleague, it's obvious that he wants to be more. But when their attempts to get personal continuously fail by way of awful (yet sometimes hilarious) happenings, Tina's not entirely certain that fate wants them together...

Now a firm believer of the unknown, Tina is determined to make things work with the patient and lovely Brian. But is this really what's on the cards for Tina? And is trusting her own decisions really a wise idea, with that one dream from the past still lingering behind?

I personally enjoyed Crystal Balls - it's a well-written, funny and fast-paced novel and if you're fond of the snappy Kinsella-esque writing style, you'll probably enjoy this! Tina is a confident, strong character. At first I found her to be a little too confident, but it didn't take long for me to love her and find it refreshing to read about a headstrong character, especially when her reliance on the supernatural prevails!

The only thing which got to me about this novel (preventing me from giving it five stars) was Tina's past. Throughout the book, Tina makes harsh references to her past as an actress. It's not unusual for someone to have had a past career, or to have failed at a showbiz ambition, which is why I assumed that Tina had done something bad or shameful in her acting days that made her hate that part of her so much. She looks back on it with such distaste (and quite a build-up) that I expected some kind of shameful revelation towards the end of the book, but it never came. It left me feeling as though I'd missed something, and maybe I had, especially when Tina takes up an acting role towards the end of the book. I had obviously read the bitterness that Tina had felt at not fulfilling her dream as something different.

However, that issue aside, I found that Crystal Balls was a great read, and a promising debut. I look forward to seeing what else Amanda has in store!

Rating: 4/5

You can also check out Trashionista's review with Amanda Brobyn here.

Posted by Elle Symonds on April 6, 2011 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (7)

January 18, 2011 10:04 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Exmoor Files by Liz Jones

I have kind of a love-hate thing going on when it comes to Liz Jones. For those who haven't a clue who I'm talking about, Miss Jones is a controversial columnist in UK newspaper The Daily Mail. She's also a former editor of Marie Claire. Liz's weekly anecdotes in the press, along with her other articles that generally involve a lot of 'bitching and moaning' have gained countless negative comments and an army of readers who flock to her column out of sheer curiosity, to see what odd revelation about her life she'll come out with next.

I'm one of those readers.

Even so, despite often questioning Liz's security in herself (and sometimes even her sanity), I can't help but like her writing. As strange as it sounds, her written voice is addicitve and enjoyable. Back when it was released, I picked up Liz's novel Liz Jones's Diary, and even though I disagreed with a lot of the things Liz said and did, I read the entire book and, well, liked it.

So when I heard about her latest book, The Exmoor Files, I wanted to read it immediately. Anyone who follows her You column in the Mail each Sunday will probably recall Liz's divorce from cheating, lazy husband Nirpal and her move from London to the countryside. It certainly made for interesting reading.

The Exmoor Files: How I Lost a Husband and Nearly Found Rural Bliss begins with Liz's first visit to her new home, a large Exmoor farmhouse complete with a stable block, acres of land and a broken Aga. After her husband's numerous affairs, Liz has decided to trade her city life of luxury in for life in the country, hoping the change will be just what she needs after years of being unhappy, despite having the cash to own everything she's ever wanted. The move could be a fresh new chapter in her life.

But it's never that easy.

With the ex still being in contact, Liz is still trying hard to move on, albeit with her new animals - racehorses that she has rescued just in time. Liz is the ultimate animal lover and her affection for her cats and horses, as well as the determination she shows to keep her horses fully looked after, shines through.

Despite the fact that she's being somewhat shunned by the community, Liz is determined to get by and not admit defeat.

Without giving too much away about the book, which contains a lot more new material, I will say that The Exmoor Files does show a side to Liz that I hadn't read before. An endearing, softer side that's evident in this book. Which is a shame, as reading her columns my mind seems to automatically conjure a bitter, ageing cat lady with a hatred for absolutely everything. But after reading this book, it doesn't seem that way at all. Liz actually seems kinder than she comes across in the media and there were some aspects with which I could fully sympathise.

Liz's ex-husband Nirpal appears in the book quite a lot, which was to be expected. His actions are truly awful and I do wonder what made Liz put up with this man for an entire seven years, let alone take him back on numerous occasions. Even though Liz, at the very beginning, seemed to think that expense and possessions made for a great life (the designer name-dropping in her first book really grated on my nerves) there is no excuse for his behaviour.

This book made me sympathise with Liz just a little, and made me think that perhaps she's not the snotty person she portrays herself to be in her columns. Of course, it could be the other way round - maybe this book is making her out to be something she's not? Even so, I liked The Exmoor Files. Did Liz find the secret to a better life that she'd hoped for? Well, you'll have to read it to find out. But the book, although coming complete with Liz's slightly cynical side, is still refreshing.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on January 18, 2011 in Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 13, 2011 12:32 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Hello Heartbreak by Amy Huberman

Having recently heard the news that Amy Huberman's second novel will be released this year, I was rather excited - after all, Hello Heartbreak was a fab book and since putting it down I've looked forward to Amy's next offering. Amy is an Irish actress and so after receiving a copy of Hello, Heartbreak - I couldn't wait to read it,

Twenty-seven year-old Izzy Keegan has just been dumped by Cian, her boyfriend of three years. Not only that, but a night out at the bar she and her ex used to frequent results in not only seeing her ex with his new girlfriend, but also a giant bout of public humiliation. It even ends up on YouTube.

Devastated, Izzy begins the cycle of heartbreak, which involves staying holed up in her bedroom for months until she finally has the courage to face daylight, and of course, work. But despite all she's been through, Izzy can't seem to let go of Cian. It's not long before Izzy's friends decide to pull her out of her hermit-like state and finally make her try to forget her ex.

Though it doesn't help that Cian's new squeeze is the talk, silky-haired Saffron, an upcoming actress. An upcoming actress who Izzy will soon have to work with...

Following her break-up, Izzy has to face the fact that it's over and deal with her heartbreak in her own ways. After all, life's all about making mistakes, right?

Hello Heartbreak was a great, light read. Whereas I didn't find it hilarious, Amy's writing style is fantastic and I did feel sorry for Izzy, who is very likeable. I think we've all had ex problems and could relate to Izzy's plight. Izzy ran into some funny situations which I found enjoyable (the drug bust, bumping into her ex at the local shop, working with the dreaded Edna McClodmutton (Izzy's nickname for Saffron!) and made the book even more of a gem. Izzy's friends are fantastic characters which Amy had developed very well. Although this book was fun and Amy has a wonderful way of writing, I felt that there wasn't much that was 'special' about this book. Breakup stories are no longer original (unless they're along the lines of Chrissie Manby's Getting Over Mr Right), and not that much seemed to happen in this book, besides Izzy learning to get over her ex.

Still, it was a fun read and I'm very much looking foward to Amy's next novel!

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on January 13, 2011 in Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 14, 2010 10:02 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Kissing Mr Wrong

Kissing Mr Wrong is the latest novel from Sarah Duncan, author of A Single to Rome and Adultery for Beginners. Having not read any of her previous novels, I was unsure of what to expect when I picked up Kissing Mr Wrong - but in all honesty? I loved it!

Illustrator Lu has yet to find her perfect man, but realises that love may soon be around the corner when she meets Marcus at a friend's party. As her university friends are running galleries, Lu is getting by as a freelance illustrator, taking jobs that she's tired of simply for the money. She needs a bit of excitement in her life, and when Marcus comes along, it seems as though love is on the horizon. But sadly, Marcus is going away to work. In the United States.

Trying to forget about the potential love of her life heading out of her life (and out of the country!), Lu puts her mind to her work - and another project. Grandmother Delia has recently decided to try and track down details of ex-soldier Jack Havergal - her real father.

Delia asks for Lu's help in seeking out the story of what happened to Jack. And when a basic search doesn't provide any decent results, Lu enlists the help of Nick, somewhat of an expert when it comes to the wars, through a friend.

Nick is smart, funny and handsome, and with all the work on Lu's family history search and Nick's charity, it isn't long before they become rather close. But there's a problem. Nick has an ex-wife, and too children...seemingly too much for Lu to handle.

As the two get closer, more problems seem to arise. Especially when Lu's efforts to entertain the children seem to fail, leaving her feeling like the 'wicked stepmother'. Can Lu continue to be with someone who she's sure isn't her Mr Right? It's a hard decision for her to make, especially when Marcus comes back on the scene...

Kissing Mr Wrong was a pleasant surprise. After reading the first few chapters, I didn't expect it to be as good as it actually became. It's not the kind of book I usually go for, and the cover didn't exactly stand out for me. But I'm so glad I gave it a chance as it turned out to be such a brilliant read. I was hooked after chapter three and found that Lu's story got even more interesting as the book carried on, leaving me desperate to find out who she would choose! The plot about Jack Havergal was also particularly interesting. Sarah Duncan is a wonderful, descriptive writer with plenty of talent and I will definitely be reading more of her books in the future!

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on July 14, 2010 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 21, 2010 12:21 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Confetti Confidential by Holly McQueen

Admittedly, I'm a big fan of the Isabel Bookbinder series. It took me no more than a day to get through the first in the series, titled The Glamorous (Double) Life of Isabel Bookbinder, and from that point I was hooked. Despite a couple of minor peeves, the follow-up (The Fabulously Fashionable Life of Isabel Bookbinder) was equally fantastic.

And now, after months of waiting, Confetti Confidential, the third in the Isabel series, has hit the shelves. Cue me in an excited frenzy! Holly McQueen is a talented writer with the ability to write downright hilarious and addictive scenes, not unlike a certain Ms Kinsella. But was the third offering as good as we'd hoped?

Well, almost!

I'll begin by saying that, although having loved the previous books, the main problem was Isabel Bookbinder herself. The whole story begins (in Glamorous Double Life) with Isabel deciding that she's going to become a bestselling novelist. She's planned everything out, from her book signings to her magazine interviews and slots on daytime television. Okay, so she hasn't started her novel yet - nor is she even good at writing - but a girl can dream, right? What follows is a series of mishaps and hilarious debacles leading Isabel to try and fulfil her dream.

Fast-forward to the second tale, in which Isabel has finally decided to give up her dream of novel-writing, and has instead settled on becoming a fashion designer. Again, Isabel's dreams of her designs being worn by red-carpet stars and her own perfume range are somewhat quashed when her application to a top design school is declined. So what if she can't sew or even sketch a design? Top Fashion Designers don't sew!

Despite Isabel's naivety causing so many funny scrapes, her stupidity soon became annoying, and seeing as Isabel is in her twenties, the character didn't ring entirely true. Isabel seemed so deluded, to the point that she may have some sort of mental issue, that the novelty wore off in book two. It was a love-hate thing. A ditzy character can create some great comedy moments, but too much can ruin the story. The books also relied very heavily on coincidences, which in turn doesn't actually teach Isabel much. Meaning that during each book, Isabel will screw up, land a job by a miracle, screw up again, accidentally get something right and thus the day is saved.

I was expecting something like this in Confetti Confidential, but was pleasantly surprised. Okay, it was still heavy on the coincidence factor, but it felt as though Isabel had changed for the better.

After her other career choices have fallen flat, Isabel Bookbinder has now landed a job as an assistant for top wedding planner Pippa Everitt. However, after a wedding-day disaster involving two lost brides, she's immediately fired. But it's only just beginning - Isabel decides to start up her own wedding planning business - Isabel Bookbinder, Individual Weddings. By stroke of luck, Isabel not only lands future sister-in-law (and best friend) Lara as a client but also former pop singer Summer Shelley.

Having two weddings to plan is a dream come true for Isabel and her brand new company. Well...kind of. The problem? She hasn't exactly been truthful about being fired. Not wanting to admit that she's no longer part of Pippa Everitt's renowned business and risking losing her clients, Isabel decides to carry on and simply pretend.

Which doesn't exactly go to plan.

With countless bride-related duties to attend to, Isabel's life is hectic, and it doesn't help that her family still see her as a bit of a black sheep. Especially seeing as Isabel isn't even engaged yet. But with the discovery of a ring hidden in a cupboard, that might just be about to change...

Can Isabel finally succeed at her career choice? And will she be able to fight off her feelings for gorgeous photographer Dan? Can she carry on working under Pippa without being outed as the WAG wedding destroyer? Everything seems to be running smoothly at first, but this is the life of Isabel Bookbinder. And we all know disaster's only round the corner...

To be honest, I loved Confetti Confidential. Okay, so the whole career of wedding planning really didn't interest me as much as the previous two, but that's just a personal thing. But Holly has still brought us a fantastically addictive tale filled with some funny moments and great twists. However, there was a little something missing in this book, and I cannot work out whether it's simply due to the wedding theme or the change of character. I think that Holly has toned down Isabel's naive nature, which works well. Despite still continuing to put her foot in it, Isabel definitely comes across as more mature and independent in this book and without giving too much away, finally works towards succeeding.

This was a very pleasing third book and I hope Holly McQueen continues to bring us some more fabulous offerings!

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on June 21, 2010 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 19, 2010 7:32 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Pi**ed-Off Parents Club by Mink Elliott

I had been waiting to read Mike Elliott's The Pi**ed-Off Parents Club since I heard of its release, and was excited to finally get my hands on it! Okay, so I'm not a parent, but that doesn't mean I'm not partial to funny tales of parenthood (such as The Motherhood Walk of Fame, Mumy Said the F Word.) And Mink Elliott's fab new novel was no exception.

First-time mum Roxy has moved from busy London to the countryside village of Riverside with her partner Jack and baby daughter Joey (who's continuously mistaken for a baby boy). Unimpressed with country life, Roxy feels even more alone and depressed when her attempts at making friends with the local mothers prove a failure. Desperately missing her London life and feeling the need to make some new friends to rant about life with, Roxy tries joining some local clubs.

However, church doesn't go particularly well, and she doesn't even seem to fit in at the village's Weight Watchers meetings. Pissed off and lonely, Roxy doesn't know what to do next, besides becoming a Stepford mum just to fit in with the other locals...

....Until it suddenly hits her. Roxy comes up with the perfect idea - to start her own club. After all, she can't be the ONLY parent in the village with with a cynical outlook and a need to rant...can she?

Roxy advertises the first ever meeting of the Pissed-Off Parents Club, which is held at the local pub. And to her surprise, to the group, although small, swiftly becomes a success, with first members June and single mum Olivia. The POP club meetings at the Swan soon become a weekly occurrence the mums can't miss, as they discuss their kids and personal lives, quickly becoming friends. Meanwhile, Roxy's own life with Jack is sexless, making her question their relationship. And with new pissed-off parents joining the club, the POP meetings seem to be the only way that they can cope with parenthood, or so it seems...

The Pi**ed-Off Parents Club, although not as funny as I had expected it to be, is still a fantastic read. The book flows nicely, Roxy is instantly likable, and I couldn't put the book down. It's a brilliant tale of realistic life as a mother which even non-parents will enjoy. I look forward to what Mink Elliott has in store next!

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on February 19, 2010 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 11, 2010 3:08 AM

BOOK REVIEW: What my Best Friend Did by Lucy Dawson

Having not yet read Lucy Dawson's first book, His Other Lover (although I only recently picked up a copy and it's still on the to-be-read list!) I wasn't sure what to expect from What My Best Friend Did. But I'm a lover of mysterious novels, which this one seemed to be, and so I couldn't resist.

When magazine photographer Alice first meets TV presenter Gretchen Bartholomew on a shoot, her life instantly changes. The pair become best friends, much to Alice's vast enjoyment - after all, life has become a little bit boring with work and although she loves her live in boyfriend - or at least, thinks she still does - Alice needs some more excitement. And who better to provide it than unexpected best friend Gretchen?

Gretchen is fun loving, beautiful and hilarious - all the perfect ingredients for a best friend. And Alice comes with an added advantage - her handsome and successful brother, Bailey. In New York on a work shoot, Alice finally meets up with Bailey, who is a world away from her stable boyfriend back at home. Can she be tempted?

However, when it seems that life is going swimmingly (besides Bailey, of course), Alice isn't aware that Gretchen is about to bring her life crashing down around her. Starting with her boyfriend.

I don't want to go into the story too much, as What My Best Friend Did contains so many unexpected twists and surprises that to reveal any of them would spoil the book - so I'll stop there. The book is dark, mysterious and gripping, and I couldn't put it down until I had finished it. Granted, there was a point in the book where some confusion arose, but the well-written story and characters kept it on track, and it still turned out to be a fantastic read.

Needless to say, I can't wait to read His Other Lover, and I look forward to what Lucy Dawson has to offer in the future.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on January 11, 2010 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 19, 2009 10:29 PM

BOOK REVIEW: For Hire by Luke Bradbury

When Belle du Jour's explicit memoirs hit the bookstores, they quickly became bestsellers. The tell-all of London prostitute Belle were read the world over and it wasn't long before other sex workers came forward with their own books revealing all about the industry (Confessions of a Working Girl, Diary of a Manhattan Call Girl, and lets not forget Girl With a One-Track Mind, to name a few). However, there's a new sexy memoir on the shleves, and this time, it's written by a guy.

Yep, For Hire is written by Luke Bradbury - a male gigolo.

I was quite excited to receive this book as having read Belle's books, along with a few others of a similar nature, I was interested to see how such an industry would be portrayed by a male. (Not that I'm looking for a career in escorting anytime soon, but I'm curious!) And I wasn't disappointed.

For Hire tells the story of 25-year-old Luke who, after moving to the UK from Australia, decides to become a male gigolo. With good money and a steady list of female clients, it seems as though nothing can go wrong. But as Luke's friends consider moving back to Australia and finding jobs, Luke realises that he needs to change, and fast. Working shifts doesn't see to cover the huge gap in his CV, and even though being a highly successful male escort is helping him to rake in the cash, it's just not going to cut it when it comes to hunting for that real (and normal) job.

And it isn't long before Luke's secret job is uncovered by his female flatmates. When Luke finally gets a girlfriend, it's only a matter of time before all is revealed, and so he has to make the decision - to remain an escort or give up the profession for good?

Basically, the book is packed with stories from Luke's 'adventures' as a gigolo, and having to hide his job from his flatmates. It doesn't take much to guess what happens and is quite similar to other escort memoirs, although Luke does have a fantastic writing style and the book flows well. If you're looking for a raunchy read then Luke's sexy recollections certainly won't disappoint. Sure, it's graphic - but fun at the same time, and if you're a fan of Belle du Jour, Girl with a One-Track Mind etc, then you'll love this.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on November 19, 2009 in Memoirs, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 20, 2009 6:02 PM

BOOK REVIEW: I Heart New York by Lindsey Kelk

Admittedly, despite being a lover of chick-lit in general, I don't usually sway towards the blatant love stories. Yet I Heart New York caught my eye. I was drawn to the beautiful cover and was in the mood for some NY escapism. And boy, was I pleased!

When Londoner Angela Clark discovers the love of her life with his pants down at her best friend's wedding, she has no idea what to do. After dumping her boyfriend and friend on the spot and simply legging it, she has no idea what to do next. With no home to go back to seeing as her fiancé has just been caught with the glam Katie, Angela makes a quick decision. She runs away, jumping on the next flight out of Heathrow. Which happens to be heading to New York.

With no clothes, no set accommodation and no clue as to what she's going to do after arriving in the States, Angela jumps in the first cab and gets out at the first hotel the taxi driver comes to - swanky hotel The Union. Thankfully, Angela has cash - savings for the wedding that was not to be - so all hope is not lost and trying to hold back the tears, she snaps up a room from Jenny, who works at the desk.

It isn't long before Jenny becomes Anglea's new best friend, giving her a makeover and showing her the sights of the city. It's all new to Angela - the city, the people, the men...and she quickly puts her whole 'running away to a different country' debacle to the back of her mind...

After gaining a job as a dating blogger and a home in Jenny's city apartment, Angela soon realises that life is a whole lot better. Who needs London when she's living every girl's dream? And it isn't long before Angela's on the dating scene, juggling dates with the rich, handsome Tyler and sexy singer Alex. With her boss urging her to continue dating as it makes good material, Angela obeys. But how long can she keep it up? And how long is her good fortune in the city going to last?

Deep down, Angela she knows she can't simply run away from her problems...

Although I Heart New York read like quite a few 'single in the city' books, it was a funny and fast-paced book - a feel good story about facing problems and starting afresh. Angela did seem to change towards the end of the book, and there were coincidences galore. But the witty writing style and story made up for this. Having left her entire life behind to escape to the City, Angela is forced to faced up to her problems and choose the best possible path.

A wonderful tale about friendship, and making the right choices.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on October 20, 2009 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 27, 2009 11:43 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Life’s Too Short to Frost a Cupcake by Rosie Wilde

Reviewed by Dot.

This is the first book by Rosie Wilde and I think she is definitely off to a good start! It only took me a day to read this as once I had started I just couldn’t put it down.

Alice has got a good, solid job at Carmichael Music, an extremely reliable boyfriend and a family that doesn’t cause her too much trouble. However, this all changes when Alice’s boss from New York pays a visit to the London office. Alice is pretty certain that she is in the firing line yet instead she is offered a dream job opportunity in America. The only catch is that the aim of her new glamorous job is to persuade the once successful but now highly reclusive Wyatt Brown to record a new album.

Instead of finding herself in New York as she imagined, Alice is headed for Wyatt’s farm in Ohio and they don’t exactly hit it off. Alice’s new life is not what she expected at all, there is a cow called Mary Lou, a wannabe popstar and an extremely important Cupcake Frosting Competition. As her relationship with Wyatt develops, Alice has to admit that her feelings towards him are not truly professional and she begins to realise what she really wants from life.

Rosie Wilde’s book goes along at a fantastic pace as we meet the many colourful and memorable characters that she creates. By placing Alice in unfamiliar surroundings, where she knows no-one, we get to understand her very quickly. Wilde builds the relationship between Alice and Wyatt very carefully but she still manages to throw in a few surprises along the way. This book does have many funny parts but I found it really poignant as well. I think many of us have a point in our life where we stop and take stock of everything so that we can see what we want from the future and that is exactly what Alice has to do. Overall I thought this book was excellent, if you are looking for a quick, feel-good read then I would give this a try!

Book rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on May 27, 2009 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (13)

May 8, 2009 2:16 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Fabulously Fashionable Life of Isabel Bookbinder by Holly McQueen

After weeks of waiting (actually, make that months), I finally grabbed a copy of the second Isabel Bookbinder novel as soon as it was released. Yep, Holly McQueen is back with another adventure - and another career scheme - from the overly-ambitious Isabel.

After trying (and failing) at a career as a top novelist in the previous book, Isabel has abandoned her literary dreams - even if she didn't really write anything in the first place! - in exchange for a new life as a Top Fashion Designer. But her fantasies of seeing her designs on Keira Knightley and releasing her own fragrance line are temporarily quashed when she's rejected from a top university design course because, well, she can't actually sew. Well, fashion design can't be THAT hard, right?

Wrong...

Determined to prove friends and family wrong and actually do something right for a change, Isabel sets out on her path to become the next best thing in fashion design. And things are starting to look up when Isabel manages to land a job as assistant to top fashionista Nancy Tavistock, muse of moody famous designer Lucien Black. Despite being simply a PA, Isabel's intent on working her way up in the fashion world as quickly as possible.

With boyfriend Will doing excelling at his job as a lawyer, Isabel's relationship is going seemingly well...until Will heads off to the Cayman Islands and starts to become extremely close to colleague Julia. And it doesn't help when Isabel's brother re-introduces her to old school pal Ben Loxley - the same Ben who Isabel spent her teenage years lusting after. And he's still just as gorgeous, and equally interested...

Isabel is determined to become a designer, even if it means designing for her mum's friends and harboring what she thinks are drugs in her handbag for her new boss. And when Isabel suspects that something is amiss with the Tavistock business, it's up to her to save it...

Admittedly, I loved this book, mainly because of McQueen's highly addictive writing style and Isabel's penchant for getting into hilarious scrapes. Fans of Sophie Kinsella's Shopaholic series will love the Isabel books as they're very similar.

However, I couldn't help but dislike Isabel, just a little. Sure, her painfully embarrassing moments provided endless laughs throughout the book, but Isabel's ditziness and lack of common sense seemed far too over-the-top and unbelievable. The book also relies heavily on coincidences.

That said, The Fabulously Fashionable Life... is still a hilarious read. If you're looking for something fun and addictive this summer, then this book is a must-read.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on May 8, 2009 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 11, 2009 2:47 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Diary of an On-Call Girl by WPC E.E. Bloggs

We previously had a look at some of the top career non-fiction , and frankly, Diary of an On-Call Girl just had to be featured on this list.

You guessed it - this isn't about everyone's favourite call-girl Belle, but instead an anonymous female police officer named WPC Ellie Bloggs. Based on her blog, A Twenty-First Century Police Officer, Ellie's hilarious memoir focuses on life in the Force and why sometimes, it's not all it's cracked up to be.

Based in the town of Blandmore in the county of Blandshire (could it be my town? Hmm...) PC Bloggs goes up against some of the town's bad guys on a daily basis. And we'll use that term loosely, because sometimes the criminals aren't as scary as they seem. Going from the lesser domestic disputes to the more serious, Ellie describes exactly what happens when there's a public emergency. But even though you'll probably be laughing at her police tales, some of it can shock you!

Diary of an On-Call Girl: True Stories from the Front Line is written in diary format, similar to the blog. But it's funnier. For anyone who's ever been curious as to what life as a police officer is like, this is a must-read.

Ellie tells of her day-to-day work, from the serious issues to the...well, not so serious. And there are plenty of the latter. As Ellie deals with man troubles and collegaues, she's out trying to catch the criminals which can somehow be a bit tiresome what with all the paperwork that's involved. And despite most of Ellie's anecdotes being laugh-out-loud funny, there's a darker side to the story - the truth about modern policing.

WPC Bloggs is a brilliantly witty writer who spills the beans on the profession perfectly.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Elle Symonds on April 11, 2009 in Memoirs, Rating: 4/5, Weblogs | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 31, 2009 9:11 PM

Review: Stick or Twist by Eleanor Moran

At first glance Anna Christie seems to have everything: a loving boyfriend and glamorous job on a women’s magazine. However, all is not as it seems. Her career seems to have taken a wrong turn. Rather than becoming the foreign correspondent she always dreamed of being she has somehow ended up at Casual Chic, spending her days writing articles like ‘Fifty ways with a cherry tomato’ and ‘Impotence: why no marriage is safe’. The spark seems to have gone out of her personal life too.

While she knows a lot of women would kill to have the comfy, undemanding relationship she has with Adam, her boyfriend of ten years, she can’t help but feel that the trouble with comfy is that it is a bit dull, a bit routine and lacking anything that comes close to being called excitement. Just as Anna is starting to question if this is really what she wants from a relationship Adam gets down on one knee and pops the question she suddenly realises she has been dreading.

What should she do? Say yes, accept that things will never be exciting again? Settle down to a life of routine, unflattering nightwear, mechanical sex, babies, quilted loo roll and always wonder what might have been if she had been a little braver and made the break when she had the chance? Or walk away from the easy, familiar relationship she has and face the horrors of a newly single life camping out on a friend’s sofa and waiting to see who else is out there to spice up her life?

While she struggles with the implications of her decision she is given a make or break chance at work. She has the task of producing ‘a bridal show for funky young brides who thought they were too cool for convention but too in love to resist’. But can she pull it off when others in the office think that prawn vol au vents and jazz bands are the epitome of what is cool.

The book follows Anna’s ups and downs as she tries to make sense of her personal and professional situations and decide what she really does want out of her life. Stick or Twist is well written, easy to read and funny in places. There are enough twists and turns to keep you interested and keep you turning the pages to find out what happens to Anna in the end.

The only problem I had with the book was that I didn’t really like Anna as a character. She is a little shallow and didn’t find the mix of all the different aspects of her character wholly convincing. Her transformation by the end of the book seems a bit to convenient and the ending is perhaps a little too contrived. That said, I didn’t dislike her enough to put the book down. I did want to keep on reading to find out if it all works out for her – I just didn’t find myself rooting for her as I might have done if I have liked her a bit more or found her a bit more realistic.

On the whole this is a light hearted, fun read. Great for a holiday read – but be warned don’t even think about packing it if you are not sure the person you are going away with is the one for you.

By Wendy Knowles

Rating 4 out of 5

Buy from Amazon

Posted by Aigua Media on March 31, 2009 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 8, 2009 6:25 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Shadow by Karin Alvtegen

Karin Alvtegen is a Swedish crime writer with a string of one-word titles (Shame, Betrayal, Missing) to her name. Shadow was actually my first foray into crime fiction (particularly Swedish crime fiction!) so I wasn’t sure what to expect.

Would it all be down to the Muppet Chef in the kitchen with the meat cleaver?

Well, no.

The story starts in 1975, with a small boy abandoned on the steps of an amusement park with just one note to explain his presence: “Take care of this child. Forgive me.”

The action then skips forward to the present. A solitary old woman has died, leaving a social worker of sorts to piece together the old woman’s life story. It turns out that she was the family housekeeper of a Nobel prize-winning author.

As the social worker seeks to uncover the old woman’s history, she unwittingly unlocks a series of devastating family secrets.

Shadow has no main character but several major players whose histories interweave to tell the story. In less skilful hands this would just be a dry series of character biographies, but Alvtegen deftly weaves all the strands together to create a compelling study of human motivation.

Although this novel suffers a little of what I always find with translated fiction – the prose seems a little stilted, and I can never tell if that’s a deliberate storytelling device or an effect of the translation process – it did flow very well, and at times I forgot that it wasn’t originally written in English.

Alvtegen bravely delays the plot twists and conclusion to great effect – this is no cut-and-dried crime novel, and the journey through the characters’ motivations is as rewarding as the results of their decisions.

A great read.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by on March 8, 2009 in Books, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 23, 2009 1:29 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Crossed Wires by Rosy Thornton

Crossed Wires by Rosy Thornton has been marketed as an old fashioned fairy tale. These four words instantly grabbed me. We follow the lives of two characters. Peter, a widower, Cambridge professor and father of twin girls, and Mina, insurance call centre worker and young single parent to a daughter in Sheffield. When Peter prangs his car, he rings his insurance firm and immediately feels a connection with the woman who takes his details and deals with his claim. She, too, feels a connection.

The second time he prangs his car he asks for Mina by name. Her curiosity aroused, she digs into his records and rings him later at home. He returns the call a while later and soon they are each looking forward to their Sunday evening chats. Then, when something happens in Mina's life, Peter is the person she calls.

This book is one of those slow starters that gradually reels you in until you become hooked. I couldn't wait to catch up with them each evening to see how they had got on. I really enjoyed it. It's a book you can genuinely call lovely.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try More Than Love Letters by Rosy Thornton

Posted by Helen Redfern on February 23, 2009 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 22, 2009 3:51 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Being Emily by Anne Donovan

Being Emily is the second novel from Anne Donovan, whose debut – Buddha Da – was listed for both the Orange and the Whitbread First Novel awards. I haven’t read Buddha Da yet but have just ordered a copy on the strength of Being Emily, which is a beautifully written coming-of-age story.

It’s told in the first person, and in a broad Glaswegian brogue (which aids rather than hinders the story) by Fiona – a young girl growing up in the tenements of Glasgow.

We first meet Fiona when she’s a child – dreamy, obsessed with Emily Brontë (the Emily in question), an aspiring poet, but happy amid the noisy clatter of her Catholic family – mother, father, brother and twin sisters.

The second time we meet her it is four years later. Fiona’s mother has died in childbirth and the family has become fragmented – each one lost to his or her private grief and coping strategies – her brother has left home for gay London; her father half-vanishes into alcohol, and her almost psychotically irritating sisters immerse themselves in their dance routines.

After being a lively if preoccupied child, Fiona now seems to be a vague, still-waters sort of teen; doing well at school, dating Jas, an intellectual Sikh, and trying to figure out what to do with her life. She’s like a sponge, sharply observing those around her but almost drifting through her own life, still underlining her experiences with comparisons and escapes into the world of Emily Brontë.

But Fiona’s life deviates sharply from any Brontëesque comparisons when she callously drops Jas for his slightly fey musician brother, Amrik, whose attention she can never fully capture no matter how she tries. As a series of tragedies befall her, Fiona takes up multimedia art and creates dramatic, almost violent installations as she tries to express the turbulence inside her, before starting the long journey back to a sense of equilibrium.

Being Emily is a gorgeous, languorous and lyrical novel which treads the fine line between a realistic “real” life and a confused, fantastic “inner” life well. And I love how it shows how a childhood obsession can echo and vibrate down one life into adulthood.

Beautiful.

Posted by on February 22, 2009 in Books, British Authors, Classic Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 18, 2009 1:16 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Cinderella Effect by Miriam Morrison

Lila Barton’s life is a mess. An artist who has never sold a single picture she has no money, ‘an overdraft the size of the national debt’ and no “proper job”. To cap it all she has just broken up with the latest in a long line of fiancés. Lila’s lot isn’t made any easier by the fact she still lives with her despairing family in Barton Willow, a dilapidated mansion house where the kitchen is the only room where you are not in danger of freezing to death or being hit by falling masonry. It is time to sort her life out once and for all.

To get her life back on track, Lila comes up with a plan. Give up any hope of becoming an artist, get a proper job and ‘definitely not get engaged for at least another year’. The plan looks destined to failure from the very start when the proper job results in her being held up at gunpoint and Barton Willow is used as the set of a production of A Midsummer Night’s dream starring Hollywood heartthrob, Mitch Clayton. When Mitch and his stepbrother, Johnny, fly in for the play Lila struggles to keep her promise to stick to the plan. Can she resist Mitch’s advances? And when she finds herself increasingly drawn to Johnny can she find the resolve to remain just good friends?

This is a light, fun read which will have you turning the pages to find out what happens. It is perfect for lazing on the beach or a lazy Sunday afternoon. There are a few downsides to the book. Apart from Lila herself most of the other characters are a little two dimensional. The Barton’s are all too nice and the Clayton clan, with one exception, all seem a little too horrible to ring true. The ending is also a little too convenient. It is too much of a fairytale to be entirely convincing. That said the book is called The Cinderella Effect so perhaps we shouldn’t be too surprised at that!

By Wendy Knowles

Rating 4/5

Posted by Aigua Media on February 18, 2009 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 30, 2009 6:48 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Beautiful People by Wendy Holden

Trust me to make the first review after having my baby a book of nearly seven hundred pages long. It has taken me ages to read. I love a good, chunky novel, as long as the words, sentences and chapters are all gripping and don't have me skipping bits because I just want to get to the end. Which, by the way, is what I found with Filthy Rich, Wendy's last book. As Beautiful People was about 100 pages longer than Filthy Rich I didn't hold much hope.

However.

Beautiful People has a great bunch of characters. Some nice and a little naive like Darcy and Emma. Some not so nice, like Sam and some absolutely ghastly, like Belle.

Darcy is a Shakespearean actress, working for peanuts in London theatres. She is spotted by a Hollywood producer and her presence is demanded in LA for an audition. Belle is already a Hollywood actress, but one with a star that is starting to wane. To regain some good publicity she adopts an orphan, but alas, is not a natural mother. Cue Emma, the nanny. Their lives all come crashing together.

This was a great story. As I was supposed to, I disliked Belle, rooted for Darcy and Emma and couldn't care less about a few others. You know where the story is going to end up but how they bumble along getting there and interacting with each other was the fun of it all.

My only criticism I suppose would be the length. I got to the point where I didn't want to read the lovely descriptions of the Italian food, I just wanted to know what happens with Darcy and the rest of the plots. But if you like your stories about Hollywood divas, celebrities and some normal people thrown in, you'll love Beautiful People.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Holly Would Dream by Karen Quinn

Posted by Helen Redfern on January 30, 2009 in New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

FRIDAY FLICK: Affinity

Now, I don’t know about you, but Christmas for me is all about Gothic romance.

Whether I’m curled up with a collection of Victorian ghost stories while the fog rolls outside my window, or plumped on the sofa, stuffed with cherry liqueurs, watching Mark Gatiss’ excellent Crooked House mini-series, “eldritch” and “half-glimpsed” are the buzzwords of the day.

And it was with this festive spine-tingly anticipation that I tuned into Affinity, ITV1’s adaptation of Sarah Waters’ second novel.

Like previous TV adaptations of Waters' novels Fingersmith and Tipping the Velvet, Affinity is set in Victorian London and has a female protagonist. Affinity's main character is Margaret Prior, played with a skilful nervy sensuality by Anna Madeley.

Margaret is an educated young woman with her own opinions and a quick mind. She has recently lost her father and isn’t as keen on marrying as her family would like. To occupy herself, Margaret becomes a “lady visitor” to Millbank prison, talking to the female prisoners and generally giving them something to aspire to with her neat little hats and general moral uprightery.

But Margaret is quickly drawn to one prisoner in particular – notorious “spirit medium” Selena Dawes (played by Zoe Tapper), who is serving time for killing a young girl during a séance. The prison is a bleak, stony place but somehow Selena has procured some wild flowers – she tells Margaret that the “spirits” brought them to her.

As Margaret becomes more involved with Selena, we are shown flashes of both their histories. Margaret is so averse to marriage because she is in fact in love with a woman – once her lover, now her sister-in-law, and we learn that Selena is perhaps more opportunistic than the whispering ingénue Margaret believes her to be.

Margaret soon comes to believe that Selena is innocent of her crime (Selena puts the blame squarely on her “spirit guide”, Peter Quick) and moreover that she and Selena are soulmates. With a lot of help from Selena – and possibly denizens of the spirit world – the story winds to its conclusion with plenty of whispered promises and bumps in the night on the way.

I really enjoyed the novel and one thing I think was missing from this adaptation is Margaret’s sparse, poetical narration. But, apart from the hands being played a little too early, this is a brilliantly atmospheric version, well-played, subtle, and best of all – spooky.

Affinity is now available to buy and rent on DVD.

Posted by on January 30, 2009 in Friday Flick, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 27, 2008 12:09 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Spa Wars by Chris Manby

Spa Wars by Chris Manby is about waxing, reality TV stars and revenge. It starts out with a cracking pace and the brilliant writing sucks you into the story immediately. Emily Brown has always wanted to make others look good. Her goal in life is to open her own beauty salon and with some prudent saving she achieves the dream. Thanks to a name drop from Carina Lees, a reality TV star, bookings have to be made weeks in advance. She expands, takes on new staff. Then everything seems to go wrong.

The first half of this book was great and I zipped through it thinking, yup this one could be on for a five star rating. But then things started to go a little flat. Emily, as the heroine, was a strange character. I didn't know what to think of her but then she did something quite tactless and I thought, I don't care what happens to you anymore. All of a sudden I wasn't quite so desperate to reach the end. But then, surprisingly, the book changed pace again and I was drawn back into the plot.

This is a great book. Full of up to date cultural references and a behind the scenes look at how reality TV stars milk their fifteen minutes, despite the slowing in pace, I really enjoyed it.

In my dusty memory I don't think I've read any books by Chris Manby before, but I look forward to ploughing through her back catalogue.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Just Say Yes by Phillipa Ashley

Posted by Helen Redfern on November 27, 2008 in Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 14, 2008 10:22 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Engaging Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn & My Mother's Wish by Jerry Camery-Hoggatt

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Two Christmas Stories You Can Believe In

I love Christmas. I love the lights, the tree, even the hustle and bustle. But, one of my most favorite things about Christmas is treating myself to a cup of cocoa and a good Christmas story. Some years I'm drawn back to the old standbys like A Christmas Carol or even How The Grinch Stole Christmas. But, this year I have two new Christmas favorites.

The first book, Engaging Father Christmas, is actually the second book in a series by Robin Jones Gunn. (The first book is Finding Father Christmas - my last year's favorite.)

Gunn's novellas are cozy. Set in London, they have everything I need for a heartwarming Christmastime read - love, intrigue and, of course, a happy ending. The books each stand alone, but my recommendation would be to read them together.

In Engaging Father Christmas, the main character, Miranda Carson, is headed to see her boyfriend whom she met the prior Christmas. She's unsure of exactly where they stand and running into a old flame at the train station makes things even more complicated. She's also in town to see her step-mother - a woman who hasn't been able (or willing) to accept her as a true member of the family. She's hoping this trip she'll be able to win her approval and finally have a real family. But, a serious of events casts a doubtful shadow over Miranda's trip and she's not sure she'll ever find a family to belong to.

The second story is My Mother's Wish: An American Christmas Carol by Jerry Camery-Hoggatt. The US is joining the ranks of the Christmas Carol producers and this YA novella is a sweet example. Ellee, a frustrated teenage girl, just doesn't see things the way the rest of the world does. Her controlling mother won't give her a break, even refusing to refer to her as anything but Eleanor (her grandmother and namesake) and comparing her every move to that of her perfect sister.

Ellee finally gets fed up and decides that running away from home is the only way to escape her mother's disappointment in her. She gets more than she bargained for when she finds herself at the Comeback Cafe with no money, no ride and not a friend in site. Lives interwoven is the theme of this book and it's a beautiful picture of how each of us can have an effect on those around us.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Aigua Media on November 14, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (25)

November 13, 2008 8:09 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Always and Forever by Cathy Kelly

I have read a number of Cathy Kelly books in the past. Some I've liked and others I was frustrated with. She is, because she is Irish and writes about women in Ireland, compared, perhaps unfairly, with Maeve Binchy. However, she's a talented and bestselling author, and if you choose the right book you can really get sucked in. The thing is, was Always and Forever going to do that?

Based in the beautiful town of Carrickwell we have Mel, Daisy and Cleo. Mel is a high flying career woman and mother of two who is busy and stressed trying to keep all the balls in the air. Daisy is in a settled relationship with her boyfriend and longing for a child. Cleo, fresh from her hotel management degree, is frustrated with the way her family is running the family hotel. When Leah opens Clouds Hill spa (which, incidentally, makes me think of wine every time I read it) their lives are eventually thrown together, giving them the courage to find out what really matters.

Or at least that is what the blurb on the back of the book says.

What I found was we had three women, each with separate lives and with their own individual struggles they must battle against. They finally get to know each other well over two thirds into the book and by then two of them have already decided what it is they are going to do. This in no way detracts from the quality of the story, far from it, it just wasn't quite what I was expecting. You know - three women getting together and putting the world to rights sort of thing.

Because of their individual stories we get to know the women really well and I could identify with each character. Leah, I found a little too good to be true, but by then I was well enough into the story not to care.

This is what is described as a feel good story. Warm, engaging, slightly formulaic and stereotypical perhaps, but a good yarn nevertheless.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Heart & Soul by Maeve Binchy

Posted by Helen Redfern on November 13, 2008 in Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 5, 2008 10:59 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Babymoon by Melanie La`Brooy

Reviewed by Laura Rafter

As an Australian, I love it when I read a good book by an Aussie, especially when they are funny, insightful & of the chick-lit genre. Because what is not to love about that?

Melanie La'Brooy's fourth novel, The Babymoon, is the story of Isabelle and Dr Jack and their experiences of getting pregnant for the first time. It's filled with laugh-out-loud insights and situations that any girl can relate to, especially one that is a mum or one day wants to be one.

The story follows Isabelle's pregnancy from conception to birth and, while she was determined to be a calm earth mother-to-be, it doesn't exactly go according to plan. She spends most of her time worried that her child will be born with an exotic birth defect or come out a human/eel hybrid. Not to mention trying to figure out what the hell to do about her doctor as he also happens to be her boyfriends best friend and lets face it nobody wants their partners friend checking out their vagina.

The storyline is filled with mishaps and adventures and has an eclectic bunch of characters from the ex-boyfriend who broke her heart to the gay best friend with the ugly cardigan to the best friend who is scared of children.

Warning: This is not the kind of book to read on a crowded train or bus while drinking coffee because trust me you will laugh and spit your coffee on your skirt.

Rating: 4/5

Like this book? Try Shopaholic & Baby by Sophie Kinsella

Posted by Aigua Media on November 5, 2008 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 30, 2008 10:23 AM

BOOK REVIEW: What's Love Got to Do with It? by Lucy Broadbent

Since coming across Little Black Dress books a few months ago, I have often been surprised and impressed by the quality of the storylines. This could sound insulting to LBD and the writers of the books and I don’t mean to be. As I have written about before, I had preconceptions before I read the books and this has led to these expectations occasionally being met or in the case of this particular book, the expectations have been well and truly surpassed.

In What’s Love Got To Do With It? By Lucy Broadbent, as with other LBD books, there is romance. And, again as other LBD books, there is a theme. The theme in this instance is gold digging. Bella Spires travels to LA, not to be an actress, or a somebody, but to marry a rich husband. Don’t look at her too badly though, as this is a gold digger with a heart. And a past.

In fact this is one of the reasons why I enjoyed the book so much - because of Bella and the impact of the past on her character. She wasn’t a 2D, paper-thin person. She had had a rough childhood with both her parents dying and a string of foster parents. It becomes clear why she wants to marry a rich man, and you can’t blame her. I believed in Bella and found her one of the strengths of this book.

The pace of the book moves fast as we cover several years from when she first goes out to LA. Because of this we are not over powered with detail, but I liked that, it avoided any predictability and also threw up a few surprises.

I suppose my only complaint about the book was the blurb on the back cover. Why they had to give the game away and say who she marries, when this doesn’t actually happen until two thirds of the way through the book, I really don’t know. This is nothing against the author however. In all I found this a great debut.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try One Night Stand by Julie Cohen

Posted by Helen Redfern on October 30, 2008 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 28, 2008 11:37 AM

BOOK REVIEW: City Dog by Alison Pace

Since I love books featuring dogs and I love books set in New York, I love Alison Pace's books, because they combine the two - yay!

City Dog features Pace's real dog, Carlie, on the cover and is also one of the characters and, interestingly, narrators. Yes, City Dog is narrated by 1) Amy Dodge, author of a series of children's books called Run, Carlie, Run! and featuring a West Highland Terrier; 2) Carlie, a West Highland Terrier and star of the Run, Carlie, Run! books and 3) Robert Maguire, another character from Amy's books. At first, I wasn't sure about the idea of fictional narrators (in, you know, fiction), but I should've known I was in safe hands...

Amy Dodge is trying to write the Great American Novel, but she's blocked. And depressed. And her agent and editor are pressurising her for the next Carlie book, which she's just not feeling. But then her agent tells her a TV company want to make a show - about things to do in the city with your dog - featuring both Amy and Carlie. Amy's not sure, but she thinks at the very least it'll get her out of the house (and be a good way of putting off writing either of her books), but things don't quite go to plan. Soon the TV company is more interested in Carlie than they are in Amy and Amy's losing control of the entire situation.

For her part, Amy's not at all interested in the TV show, but she is interested in Nick, the presenter of one of the company's other shows. But can she have a relationship with a real life man when she's so in love with her fictional creation, Robert Maguire? See whenever Amy thinks about having a man in her life, it's Robert she pictures. She can't seem to get past it, ridiculous as it is. And so whenever Amy has a prospect of romance, Robert turns up to narrate. I know it sounds weird, but I thought it really worked. In fact, I think I enjoyed the Robert and Carlie chapters more than the Amy chapters.

Alison Pace has quite an odd writing style. Not odd in a bad way, just unusual. I can imagine how some readers could be put off by the many tangents and diversions, but it doesn't bother me, I find it immerses me in the story, but if it did bother you, you would at least get a change of pace (ha!) with the Robert Maguire and Carlie chapters.

Anyway, I found City Dog to be an engaging and entertaining read with a truly satisfying ending and, of course, Pace writes beautifully about both the city and the dog.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Pug Hill by Alison Pace

Posted by Keris on October 28, 2008 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 23, 2008 7:50 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Happy Birthday by Christina Jones

Phoebe Bowler has been jilted. Returning to her flat some weeks after the wedding that never was, she bumps into Rocky her upstairs neighbour, who has recently been released from prison for ABH. Scared to open her windows at night because of Rocky and disliking spending time on her own she fills her time by going up to Twilights, a residential home, to do some part time hairdressing. Which is where she meets Essie.

Phoebe used to chart her entire life using astrology. According to the stars her wedding was perfect and soon to be marriage was a match made in heaven. Once she was jilted however, she ditches the astrology, believing it was all a pack of lies. However, once she meets Essie, who has Romany blood, her interest is soon reignited, particularly by the birthday-ology.

I have never read any of Christina Jones' books before, but apparently this is the fifth book about the magical Berkshire village. This doesn't mean I couldn't enjoy the book though, as it stood well enough on its own, but perhaps if I had read the others first (Hubble Bubble, Seeing Stars, Love Potions and Heaven Sent) I would have got even more out of it.

Phoebe is great as a heroine and there is a lovely romance brewing, not just for her but for someone else too. There are a few twists and turns, a predictable return of a particular someone, but in all this is a lovely, gentle read with some great characters (particularly those from Twilights).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Filthy Rich by Wendy Holden

Posted by Helen Redfern on October 23, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 21, 2008 10:24 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Let It Snow by John Green, Maureen Johnson & Lauren Myracle

Yes, I know, it's not Christmas yet (not long now, though, you know!), but last week the weather was so miserable and drizzly, I just felt like I needed some Christmas cheer.

And who better to bring Christmas cheer than one of my favourite YA authors, Maureen Johnson, along with John Green and Lauren Myracle?

Let It Snow is three linked stories, all taking place in the same town during the same period - Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Maureen Johnson's The Jubilee Express is about Jubilee Dougal, a girl named after a house in her parents' miniature Christmas village. When her parents are arrested trying to buy the latest (limited edition, of course) Christmas building, she finds herself on a train headed to Florida to spend Christmas with her grandparents. And when that train hits an enormous snowdrift and can go no further, she finds herself in Gracetown, subject to the hospitality of a boy she meets in the Waffle House.

The characters in John Green's A Cheertastic Christmas Miracle are desperately trying to get to that same Waffle House to spend the evening with hot cheerleaders (who are also taking refuge from the stuck train). Well, two of them are interested in the cheerleaders (the boys, JP and Tobin), the girl - Angie, known as the Duke - is more interested in cheese-covered hash browns (as was I, the entire time I was reading this story). Due to the overwhelming snow, the trip to the Waffle House takes hours and is fraught with peril (not least from the other boys trying to get to the cheerleaders first), but then things take a romantic turn...

Finally, in Lauren Myracle's The Patron Saint of Pigs, we meet Addie (who we have heard of in both the previous stories). She's recently broken up with her boyfriend, Jeb, and is broken-hearted. And yet she still has a frightening early shift at Starbucks... and a teacup piglet to collect.

I really enjoyed this book. All three stories are wintery, Christmassy, funny, gripping and romantic. I enjoyed Maureen Johnson's the most, mainly because I love her humour, and Lauren Myracle's didn't quite hold my attention (there was an awful lot of chat with Starbucks customers when I just wanted to get to the romance!), but the ending more than made up for it.

I love it when characters cross over in stories and this was done in an incredibly entertaining way. One for curling up with the fairy lights on and a cup of hot chocolate to drink.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Suite Scarlett by Maureen Johnson, Looking for Alaska by John Green or How to be Bad by Lauren Myracle (and Sarah Mlynowski and E Lockhart)

Posted by Keris on October 21, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (29)

October 16, 2008 12:17 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Strictly Love by Julia Williams

We are all about the dancing on Trashionista at the moment, which is why I was so delighted to get my hands on Julia Williams' latest novel, Strictly Love. It is a story of marriage, romance, dentistry (oh yes) and of course, dancing.

The four main characters, Emily, Katie, Mark and Rob meet at Isabella's dance evenings. They each decide not to bring into the classes who they really are, but instead they escape real life for a while in a whirl of Ballroom and Latin.

Emily is a lawyer who works for a media law firm, defending z-listers from their illegal and tasteless shenanigans. She is frustrated as she thought she'd be doing something a little more worthwhile, but the pay at the firm is good, she has her mother's debts and a large mortgage to pay. Her friend is Katie, married to Charlie and trying to create a perfect home, marriage and family.

Then we have Mark, a dentist and all round lovely bloke. He is divorced with two children (although he doesn't tell this to the women he meets at dance class) and has a z-lister as a patient, who is about to make his life hell. Mark's friend and flat-mate is Rob. A bit of a womanizer, he is actually hiding a terrible trauma.

Throw them all together with their secrets and what do you get? A real page turner of a story that's what.

Although at the beginning I was really confused because of the amount of people I was introduced to (but that may just be my fuzzied brain at the moment) once I had got going I couldn't put it down. Julia tells a great story with enough predictability (you've got to have some) but also lots of twists and turns in order to keep me guessing, making sure I didn't finish the story in my head before I'd reached the end of the book. There was one particular bit of the plot which I did not guess, at all, which I always like.

If I had to nit pick, it would be about Emily and the legal plot between her and Mark about half way through the book. It wasn't really credible to me. But, that is nit picking and it didn't matter once I got my head around it, as this particular issue carried the rest of the book forward.

So, if you are a fan of dancing, (and even if you aren't) and missing Anton's presence in Strictly Come Dancing (I know I am) this book is great to curl up with as the nights draw in. Lovely.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Ballroom Class by Lucy Dillon

Posted by Helen Redfern on October 16, 2008 in New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 14, 2008 10:15 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Maggie Come Lately by Michelle Buckman

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Maggie has struggled for years to make sense of her mother's suicide. She resents the fact that she has had to make up for her mom's absence - doing the cooking, cleaning and other "motherly" tasks. She wonders what it's like to be a normal teenager.

Then her sixteenth birthday arrives. Maggie's birthday wish is that sixteen will be a great year - that she's be pretty and popular and that her brother's best friend (whom she's had a crush on forever) will notice her.

Her birthday ushers in a whole new period in her life, but it's not quite what she expected. Her father gives her a family heirloom as a gift (just the fact that he remembered her birthday is a miracle) and announces that it's time for her to meet the 'special someone' in her life. Then she makes a discovery that will change the course of her life forever.

Maggie Come Lately covers a more serious subject matter than the usual chick lit/YA that I choose. It's a coming-of-age story of a girl who is searching for her place in the world. It's dark at times and yet there is a ribbon of faith that runs through the book and helps to put her struggle in perspective. It's a story of hurt and betrayal, but also one of redemption.

Rating: 4 of 5

Like this? Try Dear Zoe by Philip Beard

Posted by Aigua Media on October 14, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (16)

September 24, 2008 9:32 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Where The Heart Is by Mairead O’Driscoll

Reviewed by Fionnuala Kearney

I felt looking at the cover and blurb of this book that I’d get a great holiday read and beach fodder, in the best sense, this definitely is. A big book, one, if you can, to curl up with under the sun brolly, sangria or bevy of choice perched by your side, just as I did.

The story centres around the fictional ‘passing through’ village of Rathmollin in Ireland and where I think it’s particularly successful is in the mix of modern day characters plus the quintessential old Irish village busy body. Emily Gordon returns to Rathmollin to her parent’s supportive home following a broken engagement. Her dilemma, to buy or not to buy that cute village cottage.

Spoilt and indulged by her hard working husband, Jennie Kelleher seems to have it all, but something’s nagging her. Sandra Coyne, a single mother with a no good boyfriend, needs to change her space in the world for her sake and the sake of her young son. And Jack Rooney, resident hunk and successful property developer ends out impacting all their lives in different ways. Aggie, the village busy body knows everything about everyone – or so she thinks.

This is a titan novel (546 pages) and at times I felt it’s pace a little slow and so would put it down for that reason only. The characters were absorbing and Rathmollin seemed real but I felt that it was a tad too long and the story could have done without a couple of the sub plots, speeding up the pace a bit. That said, it was an enjoyable holiday read and the last section of the last chapter was so worth waiting for, it made me chuckle out loud by the pool!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try This Charming Man by Marian Keyes

Posted by Aigua Media on September 24, 2008 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 22, 2008 2:08 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Wife In The North by Judith O'Reilly

I have been looking forward to reading Wife In The North, the book of the blog, for some time. I had been reading excerpts from her website and was intrigued and wanted to know more. Wife In The North is the creation of Judith O'Reilly, a freelance journalist, who moves from London to Northumberland because that is where her husband wants to live. At the beginning she has two sons, is pregnant with another child and she really really really doesn't want to go.

The blog becomes her place to vent her frustrations with living away from her old home and trying to fit into her new one.

The book is in diary format and starts with Judith and her husband deciding they would move up from London to Northumberland, giving it two years to see if it worked. Judith then goes on to describe the loneliness, trying to fit in, builders, her son being bullied and living with an absent husband. Because even though it was his decision to live in the north he spends weeks at a time living in London. I couldn't get my head around this. I also wondered why she would stay up north if she hates it so much. Every time I opened the book I would feel slightly depressed when reading it. When describing something beautiful there would always be a pessimistic slant.

But as I read more I started to understand more. People may sneer at her for wanting to return to London, but London represents so much for her. Friends, the younger person she was before children, her career. Yes they also have good coffee but I think you'll find this in the Wife's sense of humour.

She mentions about a third of the way in that she has started her blog. After this, even though she still missed London, her tone seemed to become slightly more optimistic, as though the blog and the act of writing was helping her.

From doing a bit of research I see Judith has gained many fans but also has had more than her fair share of critics. She has been accused of being selfish. I don't see how she can be. After all she has sacrificed her own career and life in London because of her husband's wishes. She has been accused of being wealthy, middle class and having a nanny and therefore not allowed to complain about her emotional experiences after having children. Well excuse me. Depression, being low, feeling alienated crosses all boundaries. It is a feeling many new mothers can relate to. I certainly can which is maybe why I found the book hard going at times. Then when she describes the tragedy at the end which happened before their move up north, I was struck dumb.To have gone through all of that...well, I have nothing but sorrow and also admiration for her.

Her writing is beautiful, almost poetic at times. The way she describes Northumberland, with a stranger's eyes, makes me want to live there. I didn't find it detrimental about the north or Northumberland, but more feeling like a fish out of water, unable to cope, unable to call on someone when she feels unable to cope and putting a brave face on things. The book has been described as "funny". I didn't find that. I found it sad, poignant, real, and honest. Why the publishers gave it a cartoony front cover is beyond me.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Petite Anglaise by Catherine Sanderson

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 22, 2008 in Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: Benedict's Brother by Tricia Walker

Reviewed by Sarah Hague

Despite having a boy's name, Benedict is a girl. She is left some money by her uncle - good! But with it comes a condition - bad! He asks her, in his will, to take his ashes and scatter them over the River Kwai, from the bridge. The bridge from the film. The bridge that cost hundreds of prisoners of war their lives.

It is with some trepidation then, that Benedict sets out. She knows that her uncle was a PoW, but he has never spoken of those times, and she is anxious at the thought of what she will meet when she gets there.

Like her brother, Anthony. He is out there having set off on a trip around the world some years previously, got as far as Thailand and became a monk, now known as Thanavaro.

Benedict's journey is one of discovery in more ways than one. Not only does she discover much about her uncle from his diary, but she is also forced to try and understand why her brother 'left her'.

Tricia Walker's debut is a beautifully written book, full of evocative descriptions not only of an exotic land, but of the allure of Buddhism. Although Benedict finds much of it incredibly frustrating, she recognises the peace it has brought to her brother, and learns to accept Thanavaro the monk.

Moving, heartfelt, and full of marvellous characters, this is a story that will not leave you indifferent.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Inheritance of Loss by Kiran Desai

Posted by Aigua Media on September 22, 2008 in British Authors, Debut Novels, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 17, 2008 9:53 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Between You And Me by Kirsty Scott

Reviewed by Fionnuala Kearney

I have to confess that I started to read this book, convinced in the first few chapters that it was going to be the usual fare - best friends meet, life interrupts, best friends part, best friends re-unite. And it is. It is all that, but it is also so much more. By the middle of the book I was well and truly hooked and, at the end, I felt sad that it had finished.

Cate and Margie’s friendship was forged in early primary school and continued until life took over and they parted company. Cate now lives in Scotland with her seemingly perfect husband and family. Successful TV producer Margie, meanwhile, has a deliberately casual relationship with a television war correspondent she works with. A school reunion brings them back together and they realise how much they’ve missed by not being in each others lives.

Its difficult not to "spoil", but the story does unfold with interesting new directions for both characters, urged on by each other.

Kirsty Scott’s dialogue is completely engaging and carries the story forward effortlessly. I felt myself there, in the moment, all the time. I had no problem imagining these characters as real. In fact, I’ve decided I want to be their friend too.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Old School Ties by Kate Harrison

Posted by Aigua Media on September 17, 2008 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (4)

September 15, 2008 12:04 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Secret Lives of Sisters by Linda Kelsey

Reviewed by Fionnuala Kearney

I read Linda Kelsey’s first book Fifty Is Not a Four Letter Word a few months ago and so had a sense I would enjoy this one too.

Hannah and Cat are typical sisters, different yet the same, enemies yet best friends. Their privileged childhood with a remote unfeeling mother, a vibrant gambling father, a housekeeper who loves Hannah and loathes Cat, provides the early backdrop for the sister’s increasingly complicated relationship. Now adults, Cat is a successful single fashion designer while Hannah, a widowed mother of two is herself a successful business woman.

A tightly written mixture of present day narrative and flashbacks reveal the secrets and lies behind Hannah and Cat’s apparently "normal" family. When Hannah’s daughter’s wedding day acts as a catalyst for the truth, will the explosive mix of their past, present and future unite them or sever their link forever?

Linda Kelsey’s strong characterisation and well crafted story had me wanting more and I read the book in two sessions, with only a break for lunch in between. She has a knack of getting under her character’s skin and her insightful concise dialogue never wastes a word.

Only nitpick for me (without offering spoilers) was the sub plot love interest at the end. It didn’t feel real in an otherwise real book and indeed spoiled the ending for me. Only the ending, mind…

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Names My Sisters Call Me by Megan Crane

Posted by Aigua Media on September 15, 2008 in Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 12, 2008 8:19 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Class by Jane Beaton

We've written about it a couple of times now, so I'm guessing you know that Jane Beaton's debut novel, Class, is basically an updated Malory Towers for adults. And who wouldn't want an updated Malory Towers for adults?

Scottish teacher Maggie Adair is rather tired of her life - her job in an inner-city comprehensive, her boring boyfriend, Stan - so when she sees an advert for a private boarding school in a "beautiful setting" in Cornwall, she applies, never expecting to get an interview, let alone be offered the job.

But offered it she is and, to her - and Stan's - surprise, she accepts it. But it's not all walks on wind-swept hills, some of the students are as challenging as her previous charges (although in different ways: fewer ASBOs for one). There's scholarship girl Simone Kardashian who is painfully shy and just doesn't look like fitting in. And there's Fliss Prosser, who didn't want to go there in the first place and plans to do her best to be sent home (particularly after she's made an example of by Miss Adair).

And of course there are the other teachers, particularly Mr McDowell from the boys' school. He's nothing like Stan. But that's surely a good thing, isn't it?

As I expected, I really, really enjoyed Class. There's loads more that I haven't even touched upon above - as the title would suggest, there's a lot about class! - and I know there's plenty of potential for the six books Jane Beaton plans to write in this series. It's great fun and took me right back to reading Malory Towers books for the first time (and it made me want to reread them for the umpteenth).

I just have one quibble and that is that so many of the plotlines involving the students seemed incredibly familiar. I kept thinking that extremely similar things had happened in either Malory Towers or the St Clare's series and so I spent a lot of time trying to remember if that was the case and second guess the outcome of each "adventure". It could, of course, simply be that Beaton has created such a credible boarding school book that the adventures just *seemed* familiar, but it still pulled me out of the story on more than one occasion.

Anyway, if you loved Malory Towers/St Clare's, you'll definitely love Class. I can't wait to read the next one.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Prep by Curtis Sittenfeld

Posted by Keris on September 12, 2008 in British Authors, Competition, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (5)

September 11, 2008 10:01 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Book Club by Kate McCabe

Reviewed by Fionnuala Kearney

As a Kate McCabe virgin, I was pleased to open her third novel, The Book Club, whilst on holiday in Spain. The beach, the sun, an iced drink, cooling breeze and a book – oh happy days. In fact, I decided to read this book before my own book club offering, as I fancied the cover more and it looked a perfect holiday read.

When Marion Hunt, tired of solitary Winter nights, decides to start a book club, her advert attracts a disparate group of people whose lives are about to impact each other greatly. Christy Grimes (who had only ever read James Bond before) joins to encourage his wife, an avid reader, to meet new people following a minor stroke. Nick Barry, a successful poet is determined not to let his treatment at the hands of literary critics stop him writing a novel. Liz Broderick, a young widow, discovers new hope and new friends. Throw Matt Bolinger, Marion’s sexy neighbour and Alan McMullan, her stalker like ex into the mix and the book club meetings look set to be interesting.

The characters were all well drawn, interesting and likeable (with the exception of Alan McMullan who could never be described as likeable and who is surely responsible for the slime in slime ball).

The pace, sense of place, and sensitive subjects like grief and illness were handled beautifully. My only criticism is that as the novel progressed, the plot did not feel credible in places and the ending was too predictable. That said, I enjoyed the read. Not a book for a book club, I feel, as it’s not a book that will incite debate, but as a holiday read, it ticks all the boxes.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Jane Austen Book Club by Karen Joy Fowler

Posted by Aigua Media on September 11, 2008 in Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 8, 2008 1:09 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Mrs. Perfect by Jane Porter

Jane Porter writes both modern chick lit and classic romance with Mrs. Perfect falling into the former category. I've not read any of her books before so I was curious as to whether I'd enjoy her books or not.

Taylor Young (a secondary character from Jane's previous book, Odd Mom Out) has a seemingly perfect life. She has a handsome and successful husband, three beautiful children, an active social life and various voluntary commitments. She is organised, in control and, to outsiders, content.

All of these things, however, have come at a price. She is in control because if she wasn't she'd be massively out of control, she undertakes many voluntary jobs so that things are done right and because no one else volunteers and she maintains her weight by denying herself meals. All of this is beneath the surface though. Her husband, whom she still loves passionately after all these years of marriage, has secrets of his own. Communication between the two of them is, well, there isn't any, and eventually the facade that the Young's have created to the outside world, comes crashing down around them.

In this current economical situation so many people who have previously lived just within their means, are being caught out. No longer are their homes secure, no longer are their lives stable. This book has managed to capture one woman's life brilliantly, as their lives have to change.

The characters in this novel are brilliant. Taylor, spoilt and snobbish at the beginning becomes a supermum. Her friends and their reaction to Taylor's news are well drawn. She begins to see that not everyone is who she thinks they are.

I thoroughly enjoyed this and whipped through the book in no time. I could relate to so many things in Taylor's life (although I don't have a multi million pound house). There were times, when a particularly sticky situation would come up I'd think, "why don't you do 'x', that'll sort out some of your problems" then I turn the page and she's gone and done it, thankfully, before it has become irritating.

Great book. Loved it.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Goodnight Nobody by Jennifer Weiner

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 8, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (12)

September 1, 2008 12:27 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Restless by William Boyd

I've had my eye on this book since I saw the Richard & Judy programme where it was being reviewed back in February 2007. I subsequently bought it thinking my husband would enjoy it and finally got around to reading it myself last week.

Sally Gilmartin, a slightly eccentric English woman, mother to Ruth and grandmother to Jochen is feeling restless. She has binoculars so she can peer out into the woods, she asks her daughter to ring, hang up, then ring again so she knows it's her and has written a manuscript about her life before and during the second world war. When she was known as Eva Delectorskaya.

Just before war broke out in Europe, Eva, a Russian émigré living in Paris, met Lucas Romer on the day of her brother's funeral. It turns out her brother was working for Lucas who, in turn, works for the British Government. Lucas now wants to hire Eva. Eva agrees and is soon on her way to Scotland to be trained as a spy. She is trained very well and Eva is a natural. She then goes on to work for Lucas in his secret part of the government. Releasing pretend news as real in order to deflect the Germans and then later to encourage the Americans to join.

I wasn't really sure what to expect with this book. The blurb doesn't give much away (and I'm not giving anything away either) but I thoroughly enjoyed it. There were twists and turns and Boyd kept me guessing throughout, as though I was a spy myself. Who can Eva trust? Who can I trust as a reader? I became caught up in the tense atmosphere and was constantly looking around me. As Eva questioned events I became almost paranoid myself.

My only criticism is the structure of the book. We are treated to a chapter of Eva's life, then we jump back to the present (which is 1970's Oxford) to the first person narrative of her daughter Ruth. To be honest, I didn't warm to Ruth, I had no interest in her and was relieved when the chapter went back to third person Eva.

Even so, this is a great book. My husband gave up a few pages in, no doubt put off because the first chapter is Ruth's. He was surprised at my rating but has promised me he'll give it another go.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Night Watch by Sarah Waters (they're both about the second world war after all)

Posted by Helen Redfern on September 1, 2008 in More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Richard and Judy | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 26, 2008 1:26 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Blessed Are the Meddlers by Christa Ann Banister

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Sydney Alexander is back and happily married to the man of her dreams. Now, if she can just find great guys for her friends life will be perfect. She's already done it once - she set up her hippie neighbor Rain with Stinky Nate. They are happily married now as well, so Sydney is convinced she can make the same magic happen for other friends.

Sydney takes on the challenge of matchmaking for a few of her friends including her boss, Lucinda. As she becomes confident in her set-up abilities, she even takes on the role of "Lucy for the Lovelorn," a syndicated column that could take her career to new heights.

In the midst of it all Samantha, Sydney's sister, is going through a relationship crisis. Well, more like a relationship melt-down. Sydney tries to give her advice, but Samantha soon realizes that she must make the decision for herself - follow her heart and see where it leads.

Sydney's matchmaking talents rival those of another beloved heroine, Jane Austen's Emma. And just as Emma eventually comes to the conclusion that meddling rarely changes things for the better, Sydney must learn some lessons through a few matchmaking disasters.

I thoroughly appreciated Banister's humor and writing style in her first novel, Around The World in 80 Dates, and Meddlers is made up of the same stuff. The story is well-told and filled with compelling characters. Sydney's experiences made me laugh, made me cry and above all reminded me that giving advice is not always as simple as it might seem.

In the back of the book, readers will find a readers guide, Sydney's Recommendations For Life's Little Circumstances and a list of resources for those who want to be a part of promoting music education (as Sydney's husband discusses in the book).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Around The World in 80 Dates by Christa Ann Banister

[N.B. How similar is the cover of this book to the cover of Christa Ann Banister's first book? - Keris]

Posted by Aigua Media on August 26, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (9)

August 25, 2008 11:01 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: America Unchained by Dave Gorman

I started watching Dave Gorman's America Unchained documentary, but never actually finished it, so I was glad to get my hands on the book version. I've read Gorman's previous books and seen him live, and he's always very good value.

The premise of America Unchained is that Dave Gorman would drive (or attempt to drive) across America from coast to coast using only independent businesses, including hotels and gas stations. Avoiding Shell, Amoco, Best Western, Comfort Inns, etc., was always going to pose a problem, and so it proved. But that wasn't the only problem.

Because he was also making a film (this hadn't been the original plan, Gorman had just been going to do this by himself), he had a filmmaker with him, Stef. But holding the heavy camera at an awkward angle in an enclosed space (the car Gorman bought at the beginning of the journey), damaged Stef's back and so much of the early part of the journey was spent driving between chiropractors. And also garages. Gorman had bought at 1970s Ford Torino and it had a lot of problems.

For probably the first half of this book (much like the half of the documentary that I saw), I thought Gorman's plan was wrongheaded. Independents aren't necessarily good and corporations aren't necessarily evil, a fact proved by the scuzzy independent motels he stayed in and the corporate garage that rescued him from the motorway when he ran out of petrol, and didn't even charge a call-out fee (to be fair, I can't imagine that ever happening in the UK, but maybe I've been unlucky). As I continued to read though, I started to appreciate what Gorman was trying to do. No, it wasn't perfect, but who cares, it was still a noble goal.

Dave Gorman is such an interesting character. He often comes across as aggressive and combative, but there's a real sweetness and idealism underneath. It's the sweetness that is far more in evidence in this book than it was in, say, Dave Gorman's Googlewhack Adventure. The book also works as a travelogue, making me eager to take another US roadtrip (although I'll be avoiding Mississippi).

Oh and the ending made me well up. You can't ask for much more than that, can you?

Rating: 4/5 (Why not 5? Since I've just said you can't ask for more. Well, it didn't make me laugh out loud and Gorman is a comedian, after all.)

Like this? Try Not Buying It by Judith Levine

Posted by Keris on August 25, 2008 in British Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 22, 2008 8:38 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Tommy Sullivan is a Freak by Meg Cabot

It's hard to find new things to say about Meg Cabot's books when I find I'm reviewing them about once a month... but luckily I don't need to find new things to say, I can just keep saying they're fantastic. Because they are. (Just in case you did not get that.)

Her latest teen book (I think...), Tommy Sullivan is a Freak features Katie Ellison who is both intelligent and popular. But it's come at a cost. She has to hide who she really is and what she really thinks.

She didn't used to. She used to be good friends with Tommy Sullivan, but when he discovered that some members of the town's precious football team cheated on their SATs - and exposed them - he was run out of town.

Oh, but now he's back. And threatening to ruin everything Katie's worked for. And he's really hot.

Like all of Meg's books, Tommy Sullivan is a Freak is an easy read with hidden depths. I flew through it and, I have to say, I LOVED Tommy Sullivan, one of the foxiest teen characters I've read for a while. Plus I learned a lot about bivalves and that kind of knowledge can't be underestimated. Probably.

Read an extract here.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try How to be Popular by Meg Cabot

Posted by Keris on August 22, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (11)

August 21, 2008 2:59 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The True Naomi Story by A.M Goldsher

As with most authors I review, I googled A M Goldsher straight away. I am always suspicious of authors who use just their initials. Often this means they are trying to disguise their gender as they believe the truth will put their readers off. My suspicions were correct, the author of this Little Black Dress book was A Man. Like Keris yesterday, I thought, what does he know about writing chick lit?

The answer? Well, um, quite a lot actually.

But. (There is always a but.) On opening this book up I read the first few pages, threw it down and thought, yup Helen, you were right. Men can't write chick lit. I was confused, didn't understand Naomi, Jenn was quitting, there were names of people causally thrown out there that I didn't know. And I didn't understand the bra issue.

When I picked the book up again some months later I read chapter two and before I knew it was half way through the book. I began to understand all the references in chapter one as we go back in time and see how Naomi and Jenn set the band up in the first place.

So if you hadn't yet guessed, Naomi is in a band. The band consists of the brains and keyboard skills of Jenn, the bass of Travis (Jenn's younger brother), and the drums of Frank. Naomi is the singer, and because of which, gets most of the attention. Plus the record company thought the band should be called Naomi.We see the build up to their success, their actual success, the fall out - then what happens next.

Sometimes I had to re-read the dialogue, it is written the way I guess a twenty something New Yorker would talk, but I soon got used to that. The plot whipped along, I got to know all the characters and I found it not just satisfying but also breezily entertaining. I've got another book by Mr Goldsher in my to be read pile. I think I might just bring it forward slightly.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try One Night Stand by Julie Cohen (another Little Black Dress book)

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 21, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (8)

August 20, 2008 2:06 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Bright Side by Alex Coleman

Alex Coleman is the pseudonym of author Damien Owens (Dead Cat Bounce). I'm always a teensy bit suspicious when male authors write chick lit (and The Bright Side is definitely chick lit), particularly when they're writing from a female point of view, but if someone hadn't told me Alex Coleman was a man, it never would have occurred to me from the book. (Even as I was reading it, I kept thinking, "Are you sure?")

Anyway, The Bright Side is the story of Jackie, who has been married to Gerry for 22 years, following a teen pregnancy (which resulted in twins). But one day, Jackie comes home from work with a headache only to find Gerry having it away with the neighbour. Jackie is devastated. Sort of. What's more pressing is how the situation can be used to her benefit, to repair some of her other family relationships that have fallen apart in recent years. Of course, there's also the fact that Jackie's not entirely blameless herself...

I really enjoyed The Bright Side. It's a breeze of a read, with some very funny characters and situations. In fact, the scene in which Jackie catches Gerry "in flagrante" is hilarious.

The odd bit didn't entirely ring true - Jackie's best friend is less sympathetic than I would have liked - but I may be being extra strict, simply because I know the author is a man ("Pah. Women don't talk to each other like that!")

I'll be interested to read Alex Coleman's next book and I may even pick up Dead Cat Bounce (I've seen it around, but the title's put me off, unsurprisingly).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Secrets of Married Women by Carol Mason

Posted by Keris on August 20, 2008 in Debut Novels, Irish Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

August 19, 2008 2:39 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Mile In My Flip-Flops by Melody Carlson

Reviewed by Jill Hart

I love Melody Carlson's books, so I was tickled pink when I received her newest book, A Mile In My Flip-Flops. the book's main character, Gretchen Hanover, is a charming if somewhat lost thirty-something. She is recovering from a broken heart. Her fiance has run off with an old girlfriend, leaving Gretchen with not only shattered dreams, but an apartment full of stuff - enough to fill the house they would have shared.

Gretchen has moping around for months and consuming more Ben & Jerry's than she ever thought possible. Until one fine day when, while watching her beloved HGTV she has a "light bulb moment." She decides that the way out from under her grief and despair is hard work … like flipping a house.

So, Gretchen sets out on the adventure of a lifetime. Will she end up with a great investment or will her flip be a flop?

This book made me feel as if I were right in the story helping Gretchen flip the house. I, too, watch HGTV and have always wondered if I could do it. Walking through the experience with Gretchen was a blast, but at the end I was glad all the hard work had been hers.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Raising the Roof by Jane Wenham-Jones

Posted by Aigua Media on August 19, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (5)

August 13, 2008 9:05 AM

BOOK REVIEW: How To Be Bad

How to Be Bad is a novel written by three authors. Three brilliant and successful YA authors, two of whom happen to be among my absolute favourites (the third, Lauren Myracle, I have been assured that I will also love as soon as I get around to reading one of her books).

How to be Bad is also the story of three girls: Mel, Vicks and Jesse, who all work at the Waffle House and all have problems they want to run away from. And so they do. Albeit temporarily.

Following a row with her mother (following her mother winning first prize in a wet t-shirt competition – yikes!), Jesse just wants to get away. So when she learns that Vicks's boyfriend hasn't called since leaving for university two weeks ago, she suggests that they take a trip to Miami to visit him.

The only problem is neither of them has much money. But Mel does. Plenty of money and no friends. So she suggests she pays for everything if she can come along.

And so off they go. Two best friends (one of whom is behaving rather oddly) and a new girl who wants to be friends, but who they don't know very well.

Of course, a road trip isn't a road trip without adventures on the way and the girls call in to see an old stuffed crocodile, the world's smallest police station and, of course, go to a party and meet a boy.

I wasn't sure about this book at first – I didn't feel like enough was happening – but the personalities of the girls sucked me in and, by the end, I felt like I knew them. The book touches on all sorts of issues, including virginity, Christianity, drinking, sibling rivalry, family relationships, money.

Incidentally, even though I think the three authors have very distinctive individual styles, you can't see the joins in this book; I have no idea who wrote what, which is pretty impressive.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Boyfriend List by E Lockhart or Me vs Me by Sarah Mlynowski (not YA) or something by Lauren Myracle!

Posted by Keris on August 13, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (5)

August 12, 2008 8:33 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Ace of Hearts by Jean Holloway

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

Ace of Hearts is Jean Holloway’s debut novel. What really interested me about this book was that it was written by Holloway over twenty-five years ago and has only just caught the attention of conventions and books clubs now. I was extremely intrigued to find out what it was about this book that had suddenly captured people’s imagination so long after its creation.

Obviously as it was written so long ago, it was also set in that time. The eighties is conveniently an age before mobile phones, DNA analysis and complicated forensic computer technology were invented. So we are back to good old-fashioned guessing… I mean detecting!

Shevaughn Robinson is the main character and is the first black female to be so successful in the police force. She has just been promoted and transferred into homicide and her first case turns out to be the first of a series of gruesome murders. There’s a vicious sex attacker out there and he’s getting more and more confident with each killing. Unfortunately for Shevaughn the killer knows who she is and is getting more and more obsessed about her as he finds out she is leading the investigation.

I have to be honest to all the weak stomached people out there – this is a grim and gritty read. There are a lot of details included that might put you off your lunch, but I also have to admit that it’s an addictive read. I can understand why this book has suddenly attracted a lot of attention. The tension in the book is kept up on every page and the fact that you know who the killer is right from the start makes it even more of a page turner. The reader knows how near all the characters are becoming and it made me want to shout out a warning to them, but of course I’m not mad so I didn’t (honest!) For the softhearted there was a subplot running throughout of a romance that diluted the main serial killer theme and there was a twist right at the end after you thought it was all over.

Overall I think crime lovers will adore this book as its racy and dark themes will tantalise and excite most readers. For those who like flowers and romance there’s also something in there for you too, but I’m not sure it’ll make up for all the murders you’ll have to live through. However, if you think you’re strong enough it’s a great read that will surprise you.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Bone Garden by Tess Gerritsen

Posted by Aigua Media on August 12, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (6)

August 11, 2008 10:56 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: First Lady by Michael Dobbs

Due to my obsession with The West Wing, I have become quite a fan of political fiction. Not your Jeffrey Archer or Edwina Curry but First Lady by Michael Dobbs did catch my eye - so I bought it for my husband. A year or two later I have finally got round to reading it for myself, and although I was unsure in case it was a little too political (there are limits to my obsession), these fears were banished once I got going. Before you think, politics *yawn* I don't want to read about that, First Lady is about much more including infidelity, family and revenge.

The story focuses on Ginny Edge, a woman who is quite happy looking after the two children, whilst her husband pursues a career in politics. This all changes when the current leader of the opposition has a stroke and cannot carry on, forcing a leadership contest. When Ginny overhears two of the wives discussing her husband and his inability to stand as he is too busy having an affair her life changes. Instead of leaving him or cutting all his clothes up, she decides the best thing she can do to keep her family together is to make him Prime Minister.

So she sets about doing it. Fortunately Ginny is extremely clever, cleverer than her husband and most of the party in fact and with the aid of Bobby she sets about getting exactly what she wants. Although she is ruthless and there were casualties behind her subterfuge, she is still the heroine because a) she has a conscience and b) because we all know the Government and the members of the opposition are doing the same, if not worse tricks to stay or get into power.

I am always intrigued by what goes on behind the scenes and this book offers the chance to see how the UK government and opposition might actually work. You think some of the plot lines in the book too outrageous? Just look at the last few years - issues with funding of the parties, the focus on Iraq, and the back biting and brutality of leadership elections - they are all there in real life.

By using Ginny and the Sudanese woman, Ajok, Michael Dobbs manages to put a human face onto politics. He actually writes from the woman's perspective quite convincingly too. The subplot with Ajok does get a little tiresome and I lose some of my sympathy for her at one point, but in all, I really enjoyed this book.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Senator's Wife by Sue Miller

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 11, 2008 in British Authors, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 7, 2008 10:39 AM

BOOK REVIEW: It's All About Us by Shelley Adina

Reviewed by Jill Hart

How far is too far? That's the question that seems to be ever in Lissa Mansfield's mind since moving to San Francisco.

How far will she go to be accepted in the "in crowd?" How far is she willing to go with cute Callum McCloud? How far is she willing to bend to get along with her talkative-opinionated-wacky new roommate, Gillian Chang? And most importantly of all, how far is she willing to push herself to make sure her faith in God is evident in her life?

These questions and more keep Lissa on her toes as she tries to fit into her school life. It doesn't help that she's gotten herself on the planning committee for the Benefactor's Day Ball - the biggest event of the year at Spencer Academy. Can she find a hot celeb to book for the Ball or will she end up disappointing the entire student body?

I don't read a lot of YA (young adult) Lit, but this book so much fun. The characters are charming and right from the beginning I was pulling for Lissa to make the right choices. The best part about this book is that while moms like me (thirty-somethings) will enjoy it, it's also appropriate to be shared with teens and tweens. It would make a great conversations starter for moms and daughters!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Stuck in the Middle by Virginia Smith

Posted by Aigua Media on August 7, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (4)

August 6, 2008 1:35 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Holly Would Dream by Karen Quinn

I really didn't enjoy Karen Quinn's debut, The Ivy Chronicles - in fact, I didn't even finish it – but I loved the premise of her third book, Holly Would Dream, and I've been looking forward to it for ages, so it seemed like a perfect book to take on holiday with me.

The premise is that Holly Ross, who works in a fashion museum in New York, is obsessed with all things Audrey Hepburn. When her boyfriend dumps her, she loses her apartment (because it was his apartment) and misses out on a promised promotion all on the same day, it seems like things can't get any worse, but then, thanks to a collection of Audrey Hepburn's dresses, they do.

Holly Would Dream takes in New York, Italy, Turkey and Greece and contains over a hundred hidden references to Audrey Hepburn and Cary Grant films. Right up my street, in fact. So did I like it?

Actually I really liked it. It's clear from the beginning of the book that this is a fairy story and there isn't much reality involved, but it's a great escapist read. I liked Holly although I found her irritatingly full of herself at times (which is exactly the same problem I had with Ivy in Quinn's first book). I didn't think there was any chemistry between Holly and the object of her affections, which was a shame. If ever a book was crying out for a sexy, traditional, manly hero, it was this one. But a number of the other supporting characters – from Holly's father, to the rich widows Holly meets on the cruise – are highly entertaining. I could have done without the tired cliché of the gay best friend, but I suppose Holly does work in fashion so I'll just have to let that one go.

All in all, a highly entertaining and almost entirely satisfying holiday read. On the strength of this book, I think I'll give Quinn's second book, Wife In the Fast Lane, a try.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Late Night Talking by Leslie Schnur

Posted by Keris on August 6, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (5)

August 4, 2008 12:56 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Devil Wears Prada by Lauren Weisberger

Arguably one of the most successful chick lit books of the past few years, it has also been made into a successful film with Meryl Streep. Which we've reviewed. Twice. Andrea has appeared on Trashionista as a heroine, yet, *whispers* we've never actually reviewed the book. So today I'm going to right this wrong.

If you don't already know (and if you don't where have you been?!) this brilliantly titled book is about Andrea Sachs, who has ambitions to write for The New Yorker and gets a job as Miranda Priestly's assistant. Apparently if you work for her for a year you can practically name the magazine you want to then go on to write for.

Lauren Weisberger has written this from her own experiences as she worked as the assistant for Anna Wintour the all powerful editor of Vogue. Priestly an exacting, outrageous control freak is supposed to be based on Wintour.

Andrea has no interest in fashion, diets, low carbs or any of the stuff associated with that industry. She has to learn fast both how to survive the looks and comments from her peers but also how to manage the demands of her boss. She is reduced to buying the coffee for her whilst also trying to negotiate several other difficult demands at the same time.

The plot of this book isn't it's strongest point. It has humour, a vivid look at the inside of the fashion industry, and definitely that page turning factor. But what carries the book, for me, is the character of Miranda. She is just so outrageously awful, so demanding of all these people who do exactly as she says, so larger than life that you just have to keep reading.

Occasionally I felt irritated by Andrea. Why put up with all of this? But Andrea has got to the point where she is so sucked into it all she believes she doesn't have a choice, which we, as a reader, can see that she does. Because of this I was led to believe that we were leading up to a big ending. A big bang, if you like. And whilst I won't give it away, I have to say the only bit I was slightly disappointed with was the end. Otherwise, I loved it.

Rating: 4/5 for sheer entertainment.

Like this? Try The Nanny Diaries by Nicola Kraus and Emma McLaughlin

Posted by Helen Redfern on August 4, 2008 in American Authors, Devil Wears Prada, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (5)

MORE ON MONDAY: Steering By Starlight by Martha Beck

As I've said on more than one previous occasion, Martha Beck's book, Finding Your Own North Star, completely changed my life, so when I heard there was a sequel coming out, I could hardly stand to wait.

Steering By Starlight basically takes the premises of Finding Your Own North Star and shows how they work in application. Beck shares stories of her clients and how she uses her methods to help them find their "right life". (She does this in Finding Your Own North Star too, but she goes into more depth in Steering By Starlight.)

While it is, of course, utterly wonderful, I found Steering By Starlight a little harder to get into than Beck's previous books. Her trademark humour is, of course, present, but this book is also a little less down to earth than her other books. Because Martha Beck is Martha Beck, she gets that this might freak some people out and so advises you to put you "shackles on" whenever she's going to talk about something particularly "out there."

Having said that, this book is still an incredibly useful and inspiring read. As is always the case with Beck's books, I've dogeared half the pages! If you haven't read Finding Your Own North Star yet, you should read that first (and soon, it's fabulous), but if you've already read and loved that book, you will, I'm sure, find Steering By Starlight incredibly useful too.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Joy Diet by Martha Beck

Posted by Keris on August 4, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (5)

July 30, 2008 9:22 AM

BOOK REVIEW: To My Dearest Friends by Patricia Volk

I absolutely adored Patricia Volk's memoir, Stuffed, so I was excited to read her latest novel, To My Dearest Friends. Set in New York, it's written in a strange and conversational style that I found took a bit of getting used to, but once I was used to it, I couldn't put it down and read it in a day.

It's the story of Alice Vogel and Nanny Wunderlich, who don't know each other, but were each the best friend of Roberta, who has recently died of cancer. They meet when they're both called to Roberta's solicitor's office and given the key to Roberta's safe deposit box.

What they find in the box surprises both of them, but while Alice is happy to let it lie, Nanny feels it warrants further investigation and that she and Alice should meet frequently to discuss it. Which they do, in Bergdorf's.

But of course they both have their own things going on. Alice is having both marital problems and her business (which was her mother's and grandmother's before her) is failing. Nanny is struggling to afford her home following her husband's death.

This book is so wise and funny and clever. It seems fairly light on the surface, but it covers so many different relationships: friends, husband/wife, mother/daughter, even employer/employee.

I loved it.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Summer At Tiffany by Marjorie Hart

N.B. The covers again. The really boring brown was the hardback. The paperback's much better, don't you think?

Posted by Aigua Media on July 30, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (6)

July 29, 2008 10:56 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Sugar Queen by Sarah Addison Allen

Reviewed by Denise Tomlinson

I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy The Sugar Queen when I first picked it up as I haven't read the acclaimed Garden Spells and, well, the story of a sad woman who eats too many sweets and reads romantic novels didn't sound like it was going to be anything to write home about. Indeed, the first few pages really didn't seem too promising. However, I'm happy to say that after a shaky start, I was totally and utterly hooked.

Josey Cirrini is a poor little rich girl stuck tending to her elderly mother's every whim with the aforementioned sweets and romance novels her only consolation until one day, she finds tough-talking local waitress Della Lee Baker has taken up residence in her closet. Della Lee is determined to shake up Josey's narrow existence and starts pushing her to live her life to the full.

Through Della Lee's machinations, Josey meets Chloe Finley, a local woman suffering a devastating heartbreak after discovering that her boyfriend, Jake, has cheated on her. Tentatively, Josey and Chloe become friends and Josey discovers that Chloe is also friends with Adam, Josey's postman and long-term crush. As Della Lee pushes her, Josey begins to defy her mother to discover life outside of her home and blossom into the person she was always meant to be.

This is a story of friendship, love and people's capacity to change but it is the lovely magical realism touches that really bring the book to life. Chloe is a person who magically attracts books and not just any old books but somehow the exact books that she needs to help her in any given situation -I would love to have that power! Her passion for Jake is so palpable that it can cause eggs to fry in their box when she is near him. Josey discovers that the colour red can make wonderful things happen for her and there is definitely something magical about Della Lee.

The portrayal of the old- fashioned small ski resort of Bald Slope that is home to Josey, Chloe and Della Lee is also really engaging with a rich cast of eccentric old ladies, ski bums and taxi drivers who are incapable of breaking a promise, not to mention Josey's long-dead and near mythical father, Marco Cirrini.

I admit I was skeptical to begin with but there is something enchanting about this book. The characters are very lovable - I was cheering on Josey in her voyage of self-discovery, feeling desperately sorry for Chloe in her time of despair and loving the developing friendship between the two, the various sub-plots keep you guessing and yes, there is some romance as well!

This is a great summer read (Keris & Helen were spot on!), pour yourself a Pimms, sit back and enjoy.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes by Jennifer Crusie, Eileen Dreyer, and Anne Stuart

Posted by Keris on July 29, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (8)

July 28, 2008 10:45 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Klepto by Jenny Pollack

Klepto, a young adult book by Jenny Pollack, is about Julie Prodsky, a New Yorker who meets Julie Braverman on her first day at the High School of the Performing Arts (the "Fame" school, in other words). Julie P finds Julie B much cooler and is thrilled to be her friend, particularly when she starts teaching her how to "get" stuff from shops.

Yep, "getting" is Julie P's word for stealing, shoplifting, taking stuff without paying. I wasn't at all sure about this when I started reading, the teen "hobby" of shoplifting never appealed to me and I wasn't sure the book would either, but I ended up really enjoying it.

Part of my enjoyment came from the fact that the book is set in '80s New York. New York is very well-described and it made me nostalgic for my own '80s experience (which is some feat, since it was mostly feeble and embarrassing).

The actual stealing isn't treated lightly. Well, it is to begin with, but before long the girls realise that what they're doing is wrong, but the book is never preachy or heavy-handed on the topic.

Reading the author bio, it's clear that the book is thinly-veiled memoir, which, I guess, is why it's set almost thirty years ago (can you believe that 1981 is almost thirty years ago?!), but it also makes it even more convincing.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

N.B. I included the covers to show how they can go from old-fashioned (top) to up-to-date (bottom) between hardback and paperback printings!

Posted by Keris on July 28, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (9)

July 24, 2008 3:22 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Baby Group by Rowan Coleman

I know I have reviewed quite a few of Rowan's books lately, but you know how it is. You read one you like, then just have to read the others by the same author. The Baby Group was for me the first book I read by Rowan, compelling me to read more of hers, so I read it again the other day for the purposes of this review and enjoyed it as much as I did the first time.

What I should say straight off is, don't be put off by the title or the cover. Although babies do factor in this story, this isn't a book about them. It isn't really a book about a baby group as they don't get together so much on a structured basis, but about a collection of individuals who get to know each other, united in the fact that they all happen to have babies.

Natalie Curzon is the main character in this story. An independent, career minded woman running her own design company she had an unexpected and out of character fling with Jack Newhouse, then had a baby nine months later. It is a big change in her life and life as a single mother is a struggle and hugely different to what she is used to. Needing other adult company she joins the baby first aid group down the road and soon meets up with Meg a mother to four children. Along with Tiffany they set up a baby group of their own and are joined by Frances, Jess and Steve.

As ever with Rowan's stories, the characters are very well drawn and easy to empathise with. The large cast of character's does have the potential to be confusing, but I never found that as each one has its own individuality. Natalie isn't that likable in the beginning, but as we get to know her and her story unfolds I grew to like her, as she got to grips with her new life.

There are a few twists and turns to keep you guessing, but in summary this is a lovely book, a gentle read with lots of romcom factors.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Yorkshire Pudding Club by Milly Johnson

Posted by Helen Redfern on July 24, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 21, 2008 10:10 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: My Booky Wook by Russell Brand

I'd been hearing such great things about this book for such a long time, that I planned to read it even though I'd never actually seen Russell Brand in action. Of course, I was aware of him - he's impossible to miss - but I'd never actually seen his stand up until a couple of weeks ago... and I thought he was hilarious so bought the book the very next time I was in a bookshop.

I started reading it on the train and was worried I would have to put it down because more than once I did those snorting laughs that cause people to turn around to see what you're reading (or consider moving seats).

In case you're unfamiliar with Mr Brand, he's a TV presenter, stand-up comedian and actor who used to be alcoholic and addicted to both heroin and sex. The book begins actually with his manager sending him to a clinic to recover from his sex addiction, but then we go back to childhood and the rest of the book is fairly chronological.

As you may guess from the title, My Booky Wook is written in an extremely conversational style, which feels as if Brand is talking to you (I generally read it in his voice, which was quite entertaining). It's extremely honest, often disgusting and frequently funny. I also found it inspirational since he originally set out wanting to be a comedian and actor, but kept sabotaging himself (he was sacked from practically every single job he ever got), but once he got clean he's managed to achieve those ambitions in a relatively short time. It just shows that however many mistakes you make, there's always the chance that you can pull your socks up (or, in Brand's case, your pants down) and get another chance.

Once I'd finished it, I searched my email so I could tell one of the people I thought had recommended it to me how much I enjoyed it. I found their email. It said, "Don't read Russell Brand's book, it'll make you feel dirty." And I'd taken that as a recommendation! And it did make me feel a tiny bit dirty, but it also made me happy and I was sorry to finish reading it.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Frank by Frank Skinner (THE best celebrity autobiography ever, in my opinion)

Posted by Keris on July 21, 2008 in British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 18, 2008 1:10 PM

KERIS & HELEN'S SUMMER READS 2008: Worldwide Adventures in Love by Louise Wener

I haven't read any of Louise Wener's previous books and I wasn't sure I was going to like this one, but I was sucked in pretty much from the first page.

Set in the seventies, it's the story of two sisters - Jessie and Margaret - who befriend Edith, an older local woman, and spend many a happy afternoon talking to her and investigating the treasures strewn around her house. But then Edith's house burns down and Edith is killed.

Around the same time as Edith's death, Jessie and Margaret's mother leaves home to live with her new man. The girls are confused and their father is utterly incapable of looking after them (he tries - he's just never had to do it before, and is completely lost).

Between the chapters about the girls are letters from Edith in the early part of the last century, during which she was an adventuress, travelling to Greenland, Africa, Italy.

I really loved this book. Written from Jessie's point of view, it's often unintentionally hilarious (unintentional on the part of the narrator, not the author!), reminding me more than once of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. There's also much fun to be had with late seventies nostalgia (if you're my age, anyway) and the Edith chapters are exciting, inspiring and, eventually, almost unbearably sad.

It's a beautifully written and wide-ranging book and, while not exactly a beach book, it's certainly a curl-up-with-a-glass-of-wine book.

Rating: 5/5

Like this? Try The Half Life of Stars by Louise Wener

Posted by Keris on July 18, 2008 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Daisy Dooley Does Divorce by Anna Pasternak

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

Anna Pasternak has been writing a popular column in the Daily Mail for the last four years. She certainly has writing in her blood, as she’s the grandniece of the Russian novelist Boris Pasternak. Daisy Dooley Does Divorce is based on her newspaper column. I was looking forward to reading this, after all four years worth of ideas should equal a pretty good book in my opinion.

Considering the title - Daisy Dooley Does Divorce - describing the story almost seems pointless. As Ronseal would say ‘it does exactly what it says on the tin’. It’s no surprise that Daisy is newly divorced or that we are going to live through the trials and tribulations of a newly divorced woman. Her two best friends are the opposite ends of life’s stories. One is a confirmed single woman and workaholic doctor and the other Daisy sees as having the perfect married life with a successful husband, gorgeous house and lovely children. This book is a round up of Daisy’s dating disasters and quest for her and her friends to find happiness.

Even though this was a popular column I did wonder when I started reading this whether I was going to relate to it, as I’ve never been married (or divorced, but I suppose that goes without saying!). At the start I found the characters a bit clichéd and Daisy seemed to bring a lot of her misery on her own head. Daisy does not invite a lot of sympathy; even her friends think that she’s slightly barmy to say the least. She’s addicted to self-help books, but can be alarmingly self-centred and shallow at times and I was beginning to think that I was going to hate the book. However, Pasternak eventually won me over. I slowly warmed to the characters as their back-stories were revealed and even though Daisy had the odd relapse (judging a new boyfriend by how posh his bathroom was seemed to be an invitation for misery to me) she did become quite endearing and as frightening as it was I begun to understand where she was coming from.

I’m sure that anyone that has been through the process of divorce will find this book hilarious and heart warming. For the rest of the population it’s worth the effort as the characters develop into much more than you would expect at the beginning, and the journey is entertaining to say the least.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Second Wives Club by Jane Moore

Posted by Aigua Media on July 18, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 15, 2008 9:57 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Girl At Sea by Maureen Johnson

You know I love Maureen Johnson and tend to read her books when I'm in a book lull, but that's not why I picked Girl At Sea. I picked it because I'm desperate for a holiday and I'd read that Girl At Sea was set in Sorrento, Italy and I love Sorrento.

Clio Ford is looking forward to spending the summer working in an art shop with the boy she likes until her mum drops the bombshell that instead she's going to spend the summer in Italy with her irresponsible father.

The idea of summer in Italy would probably appeal to most (it certainly appeals to me), but Clio and her father don't exactly see eye to eye. When Clio was younger, the two of them invented a popular seafaring board game and became, for a while, both rich and famous. Since then, Clio's father has lost most of the money and, following a disastrous holiday when Clio was both nearly killed and then allowed to get a tattoo, things have been more than strained with Clio's mother too.

When Clio gets to Italy, she meets her dad's new girlfriend, Julia, her daughter, Elsa, and research assistant, Aidan, and learns that, along with her dad's best friend, Martin, they're all heading out to sea... but no-one will tell her why or even allow her to contact home.

I wasn't at all sure about Girl At Sea at the beginning. I found it a bit irritating that the adults were so secretive and irresponsible and I didn't really care about any of the characters or why they were heading out to sea, but as I read on I got sucked in. It's not my favourite Maureen Johnson book (in fact, it might be my least favourite), but it was still a good read with another strong and intelligent heroine in Clio.

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try Girl Overboard by Aimee Ferris

Posted by Keris on July 15, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 14, 2008 1:10 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Shoe Addicts Anonymous by Beth Harbison

Reviewed by Trashi reader, Stella

Shoe Addicts Anonymous is the story of four women who are brought together by their love of shoes. Lorna, deep in debt starts a shoe swap group as a way of being able to have new shoes without paying for them; Helene is the wife of an ambitious politician dissatisfied with her choices in life; Sandra, an overweight telephone sex-line operator with self-esteem issues that have plunged her into agoraphobia; Jocelyn, a nanny for the family from hell who doesn't know a Jimmy Choo from a Manolo Blahnik (neither do I) but who needs to get out of the house she works in on Tuesday evenings.

They form a new friendship based on their common interest but which extends past that and reaches further than they imagined, changing their lives for ever.

This is the type of chick lit book that chick lit detractors really love to hate. It's pink and it has shoes on the cover. Well to them I simply put my fingers in my ear and sing, "la la la la la!" loudly because I loved it.

I know it's fairly formulaic and predictable - I could spot the love story before the author had probably even written it, but I still got a thrill from the first kiss - but the characters were lovely and endearing enough in their strengths and weaknesses to balance that out.

The story moved swiftly along with a couple of teeny plot twists, one I picked from the beginning, the other which made me gasp out loud. Probably my only complaint is that there were a couple of loose ends left untied, but I read this book in one sitting on a sunny afternoon on the balcony and it was the perfect accompaniment to the day.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Jane Austen Book Club by Karen Joy Fowler

Posted by Aigua Media on July 14, 2008 in Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 11, 2008 12:05 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Not-So-Perfect Man by Valerie Frankel

I've read a few Valerie Frankel books and found them to be, while always well-written, a bit hit and miss, so I wasn't sure what to expect from The Not-So-Perfect Man, but I really loved it.

Frieda Schast is a widow with a young son. Her older sister, Ilene, thinks it's about time Frieda started dating again. She also thinks it's about time her own husband, Peter, lost a bunch of weight and she doesn't hesitate to tell Peter so. Frieda's younger sister, Betty, could also do with losing some weight. And finding a man.

But when Frieda does start dating, Ilene doesn't approve. Because Frieda's dating Sam Hill, a sexy, young actor, who Ilene thinks is more fling material than second husband material. Ilene, though, should really be concentrating on her own marriage and the fact that her constant comments about her husband's eating habits just make him want to eat more. Until, that is, he goes on a diet and secretly recruits Betty as his dieting buddy. Because Betty has met a man. Earl was sent to the store where Betty works to implement a new system and make some overall changes, but it seems he wants to make a lot of changes to Betty too...

I loved this book. I loved the banter between the sisters. I loved that the women were all so strong, but also flawed and human. In fact, all the characters seemed real and even thought there are misunderstandings and secrets, they always seem realistic rather than contrived (apart from the ending, which is why I knocked off a point).

It's the kind of book I'll hold onto and read again and again.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Welcome to Temptation by Jennifer Crusie

Posted by Keris on July 11, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 10, 2008 11:04 AM

BOOK REVIEW: A Good Girl Comes Undone by Polly Williams

A Good Girl Comes Undone is the third novel by Polly Williams after the successful Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy and the poorly reviewed here on Trashionista (ok, by me) A Bad Bride's Tale. I didn't like the bad bride book because I thought the main character was weak, other characters were clichéd and the whole plot ridiculous. I wasn't expecting much, to be honest, from A Good Girl Comes Undone, but I'm pleased to say (as I actually do like to give good reviews) I was grabbed from the first page.

Annie Rafferty works as deputy editor for magazine, Glo. She lives with her boyfriend Nick in a house they splashed out on after her promotion. This means a huge increase in mortgage payments but as they are both successful, they can afford it. Then he tells her he has taken voluntary redundancy as he wants to work out what to do with his life.

Meanwhile, at work, Annie is struggling for survival after her colleague and (rather clichéd) worst enemy Alexis is gunning for her job. Then there is the fact her new superior seems to be flirting with her, her boyfriend Nick has turned to smoking drugs all day and her sister is getting married to Olly. Then her parents announce they are selling her childhood home.

Annie isn't a weak character. I liked her. She is focused, in control and accomplished. However, whenever she has a heated discussion with a man she rises from the table and grabs her coat saying something along the lines of "I can't do this." Which lets her down a tiny bit. I know this leaves the book with the page turning factor but it became irritating after a while. I wanted to shout at her to just talk to him then we'd all know where we stood. But this is a minor point. There were other minor points too which irked me a little bit, but I'll skirt over those because the book was actually a riveting read.

This is a huge leap from Polly's last book and I found it surprisingly enjoyable. I wasn't sure how it was going to end all the way through but I'm pleased with the ending it did have. The other characters were well thought out and there were quite a few surprises from them along the way. Polly did well with one of the main, male, characters, as we are kept guessing about him right until the end.

If her previous book put you off then I really recommend you give her another chance. If you've never tried Polly Williams before, then start with this one.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Other Side of the Story by Marian Keyes

Posted by Helen Redfern on July 10, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 8, 2008 10:56 AM

BOOK REVIEW: 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover by Linda Wisdom

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

When I picked up 50 Ways to Hex Your Lover I expected a fun, humorous read. Then I saw that the author Linda Wisdom has written over 70 romance books. This suddenly conjured up an image of the Little Britain character of an old woman dressed in pink, stuffing chocolates while dictating to a long suffering secretary working on one of those electric typewriters, which seem to have a life all of their own. My hopes for this book suddenly plummeted at the thought of an old fashioned flowery romance with a storyline masquerading as paranormal. An idea which was backed up the retro ‘Bewitched’ style cover, but I couldn’t have been more wrong.

The characters in this story are quirky and upbeat. Jasmine is a witch that was banished from the Witches’ Academy hundreds of years ago and has had to make her way in the human world without help ever since. Her friends are made up of a human lodger that creates websites for vampires, a chain-smoking ghost that haunts her sports car and Fluff and Puff, a pair of bunny slippers that wouldn’t hesitate to bite your hand off. Between her two jobs of curse eliminator and chauffeur she’s been doing okay. However, when her ex-boyfriend, Nick turns up things start to get complicated. Nick is a vampire and his friends have gone missing. They suspect a past enemy has found a way to come back from the dead, but how on earth can they beat a power like that?

There was nothing really to dislike about this book. The characters were likeable with lots of humorous traits and the story was upbeat with a good plot. However, I felt as though there was something missing. Whenever I picked up the book I enjoyed it, but once I put it down I never had a burning desire to return to it and I don’t really know why. It may have been that the one thing the characters did lack was a believable chemistry. I never really cared whether the on off couple Nick and Jasmine were going to get back together or not. There wasn’t enough detail on the enemy for me to feel as though he was a real threat, which was a shame because the action towards the last third of the book showed that the story could have really shone. However, I don’t feel as though I can criticise this book as all it’s individual parts were so good, it’s just when you put them all together I didn’t think they quite meshed.

It was a good read that I would recommend if you are into these types of book, but if you are unsure about this genre it’s most definitely not one to start with.

Like this? Try Girls' Guide to Witchcraft by Mindy Klasky

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Aigua Media on July 8, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (4)

July 7, 2008 11:07 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Under Pressure by Carl Honore

I really enjoyed Carl Honore's first book, In Praise of Slow, so when I heard that he was taking on the culture of "hyper-parenting" I knew I had to read more.

In Under Pressure, Honore visits schools and preschools that are taking a "slow" approach (including a totally outdoor preschool, which sounds amazing), along with looking at current research on how children learn and at the damage that hyper-parenting can actually do.

I found this book fascinating and I've been quoting it to fellow parents frequently since finishing it. It did actually make me rethink how I play and interact with my own son (although I was certainly already closer to "slow" than "hyper", mainly due to inherent laziness).

One of the things I loved about it was how honest Honore is in admitting that he's still struggling with the concept himself. After reading Slow, I imagined he'd become utterly relaxed and chilled and was totally living the slow life. Under Pressure shows that this isn't the case, but he is trying because he knows it's better for both him and his family. Read it and you won't doubt it either.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Family Friendly Working by Antonia Chitty

Posted by Aigua Media on July 7, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (6)

July 4, 2008 11:52 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Jumping to Confusions by Liz Rettig

To begin with, I wasn't sure I was going to enjoy Jumping to Confusions - the main character, Cat, is "the fat, plain one in my family". Her sister, Tessa is blonde, gorgeous and popular, mostly with boys. Cat's mother favours Tessa and comments relentlessly on Cat's weight. I felt like I'd read it all before and couldn't be bothered to read it again, but Cat's voice convinced me to keep going and I'm glad I did.

Tessa fancies Josh, the son of Cat and Tessa's father's American boss, who has moved to Glasgow to restructure the company. But when Josh seems more interested in Cat than in Tessa, Tessa suggests it's because he's not interested in girls at all...

What follows is utterly unbelievable, but strangely compelling. On the assumption that Josh is gay, Cat makes him her new best friend and utilises him for everything from bra shopping to kissing practice. Much of the entertainment comes from the fact that the reader knows (or at least I imagine most readers would know) that Josh isn't gay at all, rather he's interested in Cat ... and Cat is making a holy show of herself.

Plus there's Cat's crush on her schoolteacher (although she doesn't think it's a crush, she believes that he's just waiting for her to finish school so they can be together) and her - mostly hopeless - attempts to matchmake her friends.

Even though Cat came across as pathologically oblivious to what was right in front of her face, I really liked her. She's such a funny, good-hearted and stubborn character. Josh is very cute and Cat's group of friends are highly entertaining too.

Not necessarily a realistic read, but a highly entertaining one.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Pretty Face by Mary Hogan

Posted by Aigua Media on July 4, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 3, 2008 11:21 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Little White Lies by Bernadette Strachan

Bernadette Strachan is not an author I've come across before (although this is her fourth novel) and because I'm not familiar with her work - when I picked up Little White Lies, read the blurb and studied the front cover, I wasn't really expecting much at all.

Billie Baskerville is allergic to weddings after her own went disastrously wrong. A few months later an aunt of Billie's asks her to look after her wedding shop and Billie, in a dead end job and wanting to escape, rushes to Sole Bay to take over the running off Barbara's Brides. The shop is dingy, run down with terrible stock. But Billie rises to the challenge and sets about, with the help of Dot, making it over.

She has nowhere to live as her dotty aunt had rented out the apartment, so she lives in a beach hut on the sea front. She gains friends, meets a fireman and it looks like life for Billie is getting better...

This book is actually one of those that turns out to be surprisingly good. I liked the writing style enormously. Although it was written in third person, I felt whilst reading the book that someone was chatting to me. Occasionally I would feel lost and think, what did she mean by that sentence, but most of all I felt deeply involved in Billie's life, her friend's lives (not everything is what it seems) and how it would all end.

Talking of conclusions, I really did not see the end coming at all. Often when you start to read a book you can work out it's finale straight away. This one I didn't and although I felt slightly disconcerted by this (I'm so used to working things out) I just enjoyed the surprises within the story. Now I must check out Bernadette's other books.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Revenge of the Wedding Planner by Sharon Owens

Posted by Helen Redfern on July 3, 2008 in Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 24, 2008 10:30 AM

RICHARD AND JUDY SUMMER READS 2008: The Private Lives of Pippa Lee by Rebecca Miller

Reviewed by Sarah Hague

How many of us have led a blameless life, or have a past unsullied by the slightest hint of something dodgy?

Pippa Lee is the 50-year-old wife of successful book editor Herb who is thirty years her senior and getting frail. They leave their fabulous house and move into a housing complex for the old and infirm. Pippa, by far the youngest inhabitant, finds herself wondering what she is doing there.

In the upheaval and unsettling effect the move has on her, she reflects on her life - her speed-crazed mother, her dissolute youth, her meeting with Herb, her husband, and the stabling effect of the birth of the twins.

The move from contented wife of a successful publisher with all the comforts and social standing that brought, to member of a dying community, nursemaid to her husband, destabilizes her completely. Strange things start happening to her and she meets the odd son of her neighbour who stretches out an angel's wing of compassion and understanding.

Pippa is woman who has spent her life trying to come to terms with who she is and what she is. Many women will recognise her efforts to fit in to her expectations of what motherhood and marriage entail; her desire to be the perfect wife and mother.

Her marriage to Herb is founded on a tragedy and she lives, unknowingly, with the guilt until a second tragedy finally sets her free. Suddenly she realises she doesn't have to pretend any more, can be the person she wants to be, and has the courage to accept and forgive herself.

A fabulous read - complex, compassionate, and beautifully written. Pippa is a modern heroine - flawed, yet kind and loving. A woman for our times.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian by Marina Lewycka

Posted by Aigua Media on June 24, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Richard and Judy | Permalink | Comments (7)

June 23, 2008 11:33 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Making Babies by Anne Enright

I don't particularly want to read Anne Enright's Booker winning The Gathering - sounds way too bleak for me - but I've had her pregnancy and parenting memoir, Making Babies on the shelf for a while now so I finally read it. And I loved it. (Oh and apologies that both reviews these days are motherhood-y - just a coincidence!)

Enright is brutally honest and very funny as she writes about how pushing a buggy makes you look (um, rough), how much breast-feeding hurts (plenty), how babies are born knowing everything, how she fitted her writing life into her parenting life, how lonely parenting is, basically everything you could want to know about the subtitle, Stumbling into Motherhood.

Enright is utterly aware of how universal these things are, but, at the same time, how specific and personal they are. I marked pages thinking "I thought I was the only one who felt like that!" I laughed, I sympathised, I empathised and I cried (I always, always cry reading parenting memoirs).

And - just as you'd expect from a Booker Prize winner - the writing is gorgeous:

Yesterday, it was warm, and I took off her socks and stood her on the grass. She loved this, but maybe not so much as I did - her first experience of grass. For her, this green stuff was just as different and as delicious as everything else - the 'first' was all mine. Sometimes, I feel as though I am introducing her to my own nostalgia for the world.

Highly recommended if you're considering motherhood or, indeed, stumbling into motherhood yourself (although bear in mind that it's not pretty!).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Waiting for Birdy by Catherine Newman

Posted by Aigua Media on June 23, 2008 in Irish Authors, Memoirs, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: The Accidental Mother by Rowan Coleman

I had only read two out of the six novels that Rowan Coleman has had published, her two latest, The Baby Group and The Accidental Wife both of which I thoroughly enjoyed. So I thought I'd give one of her earlier books a go.

Sophie Mills works for a company that holds parties for their clients. She works long and hard, lives alone in her flat and has lots of pairs of shoes. She's happy, or so she thinks. Aiming for a promotion she is shocked and floored when one day a social worker walks into her office and tells her she is now the legal guardian of her best friend's children, Izzy and Bella. Her life and her flat is thrown upside down and she is desperate to find their father in order to regain her old life.

This book has been on my radar for some time (it was published in 2006), but being a mother myself I often avoid books that appeared to be primarily about motherhood (coincidently just as I avoided The Baby Group - until I picked it up and realised it wasn't just about babies). It is written in Rowan's usual descriptive style, extremely vivid, in fact, I feel I used to live in Sophie's flat myself.

The book is a little predictable, you can kind of get an idea of what will happen, especially when one of the male leads walks into her life, but the journey Sophie goes on is both heartwarming and sad and you get so engrossed the predictability doesn't really matter. Pre baby I could have identified with Sophie before the children landed on her and once Sophie had fallen for the children and would do anything for them, I could identify with that too. The book also demonstrates, quite dramatically, how having children can completely change your life

I have to say now, after having read three books by Rowan you are always guaranteed a good read. This one is lovely and I enjoyed it tremendously. The only reason I'm giving it 4 instead of 5 in the ratings is because I enjoyed The Accidental Wife (her recent release) a little bit more and I can see how her writing has progressed.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try My Best Friend's Girl by Dorothy Koomson

Posted by Helen Redfern on June 23, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 19, 2008 11:58 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Around the World in 80 Dates by Christa Ann Banister

Reviewed by Jill Hart

As a travel writer, you would think Sydney Alexander leads a pretty exciting life. Unfortunately, this is only partially true. While she enjoys her work, has a great relationship with her sister, a hilarious hippie for a neighbor, and a strong relationship with God, she just can't seem to find a decent date.

Sydney's typical dates tend to either be "between jobs" (translated: have no money), "emotionally unavailable" (translated: on the rebound) or "with the band" (translated: too cool to care about anything but their music). She's not sure she'll ever meet a man that will be worth the time she spends getting dressed for the date.

An old flame keeps popping up in unexpected places, making Sydney wonder if breaking things off with him was the right thing to do. A blind date set up by Rain, the hippie neighbor, seems to have potential, but the guy isn't a Christian and Sydney isn't sure she's up for "missionary dating" (her sister's words).

In the midst of Sydney's turmoil, her sister, Samantha is trying to figure out the dating scene as well. Sydney and her family have always thought that Samantha should end up with her closest friend, Eli. Samantha, on the other hand, thinks that would be ... well, weird. Samantha, like Sydney isn't going to give up. There just has to be a good guy out there somewhere...

When Sydney is assigned a dream trip story covering travel tips for London, she's sure it means love. What could be more romantic than meeting a man in Europe?

I loved Christa Ann Banister's light-hearted look at love in the new millennium. Her witty writing reminded me of other chick-lit writers and yet the plot was original and the characters were laughably funny. Her real life tie-ins cracked me up. From Tivoing The Office to getting java at Caribou Coffee to dinner at P.F. Changs - it could have all been straight out of my own life. No wonder I liked it, right?

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Sisterchicks Go Brit by Robin Jones Gunn

Posted by Aigua Media on June 19, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (10)

June 11, 2008 11:50 AM

BOOK REVIEW: One Night Stand by Julie Cohen

As a relative Trashionista newbie I am learning all the time. Not to judge a book by its cover, a cliche but true and not to have preconceived views about certain books. I don't know why, but I thought Little Black Dress books would be romance but with a submissive heroine...not my sort of thing at all (where have I been?) So I was pleasantly surprised when I finally got around to reading One Night Stand by Julie Cohen. I don't often admit to being wrong, but I do today.

One Night Stand is about Eleanor Connor, a bartender with a secret life. She writes erotic novels under the pen name Estelle May. So far she has written sixteen of them and is currently struggling with her seventeenth. Her own life, however, is a lot paler in compassion, with nothing happening and certainly nothing like the lives of the women in her novels. Until one night a stranger walks into the bar.

Slightly tipsy, Eleanor acts completely out of the ordinary and has a one night stand, something her friend and neighbour Hugh has on a regular basis, but definitely not something she has ever done. Then she finds out she's pregnant.

I did enjoy this book. I loved Eleanor. I loved that she was successful, was independent and when faced with the news that she was pregnant took it in her stride. Hugh was also a great hero, though both of them were a bit dipsy at times, and the tension mounting between the two of them was extremely well written. There is also plenty of humour and great observations about English pub life and living in Reading (Julie herself is American). I read it in day, it's a real page turner and never frustrating.

So, I have learned my lesson and will read more of both Julie Cohen's and Little Black Dress books in the future.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Hex and the Single Girl by Valerie Frankel

Posted by Helen Redfern on June 11, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (8)

June 9, 2008 8:24 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Marketing Your Book by Alison Baverstock

I appreciate that this is rather a niche review, but I know we have an awful lot of authors (and future authors!) who read Trashionista and I think Alison Baverstock's Marketing Your Book would be extremely useful to them.

Marketing Your Book covers pretty much everything you could need to know about how to get your book to the biggest readership. From preparing your manuscript for submission to organising a launch event, it's all covered, along with an explanation of what marketing actually is!

With examples from the author's own experience and plenty of useful case studies, Marketing Your Book is full of practical advice written in an entertaining and accessible style.

Plus it contains the best advice you'll ever get: "Try not to act like a prat." :)

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Wannabe a Writer? by Jane Wenham-Jones

Posted by Aigua Media on June 9, 2008 in British Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (5)

June 3, 2008 12:40 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Truth About Forever by Sarah Dessen

I've been hearing about Sarah Dessen's books for years now, but I hadn't read one until The Truth About Forever.

It's the story of Macy, who is trying to keep it together following her dad's death (which she secretly feels she could have prevented). Macy's way of dealing is to keep her life very small and controlled and everything's going fine until her boyfriend suggests they take a break (he's not sure Macy is in line with his future "goals"), she gets a new job that she hates and she meets a chaotic catering crew who are always looking for extra help.

Liking the fact that when she's with the Wish caterers, she's just Macy and not Macy-whose-dad-died, she starts spending more and more time with them, particularly the gorgeous Wes. She and Wes enter into a game of truth and become closer and closer, sharing their secrets, but it's still safe because they both have partners (Wes's girlfriend is in prison).

But Macy had to have learned her coping strategy from someone and it was her mother who, when she realises how much time Macy is spending with her new friends, takes back some control of her own.

I loved this book. I liked Macy from the first page and the Wish crew are charming and hilarious. Wes is extremely sexy and charismatic and the book is filled with little details - about art, family, emotion, friendship, letting go and moving on - that are so brilliantly and subtlely woven into the story that you barely notice them until you finish reading and realise how utterly satisfying it all was. Although Macy and her family are sad, this isn't a sad book at all; in fact it's a very positive book. I'll definitely be reading more Sarah Dessen.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty

Posted by Aigua Media on June 3, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (13)

June 2, 2008 1:06 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: JORDAN Pushed to the limit by Katie Price

I have a secret. I am a big fan of Katie Price. I don't know why I have to keep it a secret, but it seems to be easier that way. Although...well, obviously I've just outed myself and it isn't a secret now. I really enjoy Katie and Peter's fly on the wall programme on ITV3 on a Thursday night, I've been following the pair of them (her more than him - I haven't read his autobiography) since they were in I'm a Celebrity.

So I have read the first two of her autobiographies and a few weeks ago, struggling with morning sickness and extreme exhaustion, I needed something light and easy to read. Pushed to the Limit was the perfect solution. I was actually quite excited when I opened the book.

Her first book was about her life up until she met Peter, the second her relationship with Peter in the early days and this one is more family orientated. It is all about the emotional challenges of post natal depression, her miscarriage, the safety of her family and the health of her children, particularly Harvey, her eldest. Plus of course some intimate details of her relationship with Peter.

Katie, I find, is refreshingly honest and doesn't actually make out she is the heroine all the time. In fact there are a few times when she doesn't come across that well. She makes mistakes like most of us. I could identify with many of her experiences and it was quite inspiring to know somebody else out there has gone though similar situations. I found her description of family situations to be, in fact, the most interesting bits along with her behind the scenes information on her career. (Not so much about her and Pete's bedroom antics). The chapter about Harvey's accident, again told in a frank and unflinching way, was heartbreaking and I really felt for her and Harvey.

I know that Katie probably didn't write the book herself and for some people that is scandalous. I don't care though. I am naturally a ~~nosy~~ curious person and want to know about other people's lives, particularly someone successful like her in the public eye. (I do draw the line at Kerry Katona and Jade Goody though).

I am now bracing myself for everyone to disagree with me!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Growing Pains by Billie Piper

Posted by Helen Redfern on June 2, 2008 in Celebrity Authors, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

BOOK REVIEW: The Boy Next Door by Cathy Woodman

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

Cathy Woodman is a qualified vet who has turned to writing full time. This is her fourth book and I expected at least one of the characters to have a quirky pet, but she’s drifted away from her own work experiences and pushed into the romantic world of flower arranging instead.

The Boy Next Door is a romantic drama centring on Terri Mills whose world has fallen apart. She is forced to go back to live near her grandmother in London with only a bankruptcy order to show for her life in Devon. Even if she has lost her own flower shop, she still has her nine-year-old daughter who sees the move as an adventure. Plus she’ll still be working with flowers in her gran’s local flower shop. Which would be great, except for the fact that she’ll also be working with her childhood sweetheart who broke her heart all those years ago. Will she be able to cope seeing him with his successful business and family when she has failed at both?

This book was a great read. It didn’t have a complicated plot with lots of twists and turns, and was rather predictable, but in a way that was what I liked about it. The characters were black and white. If you hated a character, it’s because Woodman wanted you to hate them. She is very skilled at manipulating the reader into feeling exactly what she wants them to feel at any particular part of the story. Personally I expect a certain type of ending with romances and Woodman didn't disappoint. The whole book follows a winning formula that can be hard to get just right, but this book will satisfy any lover of romances. It is lacking humour, so cannot really be classed as a romantic comedy, but has enough pace and drama to pull itself through.

I think this would be great for the beach or even your back garden if the weather permits.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs

Posted by Aigua Media on June 2, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 19, 2008 9:13 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Did I Expect Angels? by Kathryn Maughan

I didn't know what to expect from Kathryn Maughan's Did I Expect Angels? I'm not a big fan of the title or the cover, they both seem a little pretentious to me. Of course, the fact that it's about grief wasn't a big draw either. You know what I'm going to say now, don't you? Yeah, I really liked it.

It begins with Jennifer Huffaker in the pharmacy trying to decide how many bottles of aspirin it will take for her to kill herself. Following the death of her husband, Jack, eighteen months earlier, Jennifer has sunk into a depression that no-one - not her family, friends, or her young daughter, Kaitlyn, can get her out of.

But in the store, she bumps an acquaintance, Henry, who senses her desperation and insists that she come with him and listen to his story. Henry moved from Costa Rica to the US and has suffered many trials and setbacks of his own.

Alternating with Henry's story is Jennifer's own story - the story of her relationship with Jack.

Did I Expect Angels? is not just an utterly compelling story, it's two utterly compelling stories. I found Jennifer's story hard to read since I knew, from the first page, that Jack was going to die and so it was hard to enjoy their happiness. Henry's story was difficult too, but I was desperate for him to succeed and find happiness in the US.

Above all, it's just beautifully written and I'm amazed that it's Maughan's first novel. I look forward to reading her next.

Ratng: 4/5

Like this? Try Happiness Sold Separately by Lolly Winston

Posted by Aigua Media on May 19, 2008 in American Authors, Debut Novels, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (5)

May 15, 2008 1:08 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Walk With Jane Austen by Lori Smith

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Part history, part armchair travel-guide, and part memoir, A Walk With Jane Austen by Lori Smith put my travel bug in overdrive. Being a big Jane Austen fan, I can easily imagine what it might be like to walk where she once lived. A Walk With Jane Austin gave me a glimpse of the UK from the comfort of my couch (well, LoveSac actually).

When Smith decided to travel to Britain, she was looking for a change of scenery and a chance of pace from her hectic life. Smith heads 'across the pond', and begins her journey in Oxford. She continues on to London, Winchester, Bath and beyond. Throughout the trip, she shares thoughts and feelings straight from her heart.

In Oxford she meets Jack, who she finds intriguing and charming. In London, she visits an old friend and writes about the terrorism that is all over the news these days. In each chapter she shares how she's processing her journey and how her faith is being stretched, expanded and deepened.

Mixed in amongst her experiences, Smith shares the parts of Austen's life that took place in each location. She notes that in Oxford, where her journey began, was also where it's thought that George and Cassandra Austen, Jane's parents, met. In Steventon, Smith discusses that this, or something nearby, is Jane Austen's birthplace. The story intermingles with Austen history and it's a fun walk through time. The book also has a deeper dimension, where Smith shares her inmost thoughts and feelings.

Smith's book began as a blog where she wrote about her experiences. In the preface, she mentions that on the blog she often received questions from readers as to whether the entries were fictional or not. She makes mention that it's very much a work of non-fiction, although having been written after the trip from her extensive journaling, she may have added some additional perspective in hindsight.

Put altogether, the book does read like a novel and knowing that it's not makes it an ever better read in my opinion. I identified with Smith in many ways and found myself wishing I had been traveling along with her. Maybe she'll take another trip and invite me along? Hey, a girl can dream...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Madonna and Me by Nikki Racklin

Posted by Aigua Media on May 15, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (8)

May 14, 2008 7:27 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Second Time Lucky by Sophie King

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

I’ve read Sophie King’s previous books (Mums@Home and The School Run) and even though I didn’t dislike them I thought them a little formulaic, twists for the sake of twists and a tad underwhelming. Second Time Lucky, however, is where Sophie really gets into her stride. Initially a little apprehensive I actually thoroughly enjoyed it and swallowed it up (not literally you understand) in one day.

There is the newly separated woman, Louise, with three teenagers that she’s struggling to control. An uptight American, Marcie, with a dark past unable to conceive with her equally uptight English husband, whilst battling with the children from his first marriage. Mollie, a retired actress, newly widowed but still talking to her husband as though he’s really there. They all come together into a former stately home, now divided into flats. The home once belonged to Roddy’s family. He has now returned fresh from rehab, trying to ignore the temptation of the bottle whilst attempting to regain access to his children.

As you can see, there is a lot going on. In contrast with her other books this one doesn’t seem formulaic at all. The lives of the characters all jumble up into a fabulous mess. I did want to bash some strength into Louise the divorcee as I wanted there to be a bit more about her (I do like a strong heroine) but to be fair she’s just moved out of their family home and in a state of shock. In contrast I found Sally the cleaner and Mollie were both great. Mollie was, by far, my favourite character. To be fair though the characters were all well drawn and described, I could see them very clearly, as I could the house where they all lived.

There were a few twists in the book and at one stage Sophie really leaves us guessing for a while. I enjoyed the little notices that were put up at the beginning of each chapter. It is this attention to detail that really makes the book. If Sophie keeps going like this, she’s got a fantastic future ahead of her.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Queen of Broken Hearts by Cassandra King

Posted by Aigua Media on May 14, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 9, 2008 11:19 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks be E Lockhart

I've loved all of E Lockhart's books, but I have to admit I was a bit afraid to read her latest, The Disreputable History of Frankie Landau-Banks, since a couple of friends whose opinions I respect really didn't like it at all. Well, I don't respect their opinions anymore*, since I loved it.

Frankie attends the exclusive boarding school that her father and sister (and father's father, etc.) attended before her. When she started there, she was in her sister's shadow, but now that her sister has left - and Frankie has experienced some physical "blooming" - things are looking up.

* only joking.

Frankie is thrilled when her long-time crush and star of the school, Matthew Livingston, suddenly notices her and they begin dating. She's not so thrilled when she realises that Matthew is lying to her in order to hang out and plan pranks with the all male secret society of which he's a member.

Frankie refuses to let Matthew and his friends underestimate her and so decides to carry out a few pranks of her own with startling results.

From the first page I loved this book. I loved the character of Frankie and her refusal to be patronised. I loved how she co-opted a boys' club and had them all under her control without them ever suspecting her. There are plenty of feminist characters in young adult fiction, but I find them to be more overtly feminist (yet not stridently so) in E Lockhart's books.

While I didn't love this as much as the Ruby Oliver books (like this one and this one - and there's another coming soon!) - the Loyal Order of the Basset Hounds reminded me a bit too much of the Life and Death Brigade in Gilmore Girls and there's a running joke about language that I found a bit irritating - it's yet another addition to my brilliant YA bookshelf. If E Lockhart just wrote about nine more books a year, she could give Meg Cabot a run for her money!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Secret Society Girl by Diana Peterfreund

Posted by Aigua Media on May 9, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (4)

May 8, 2008 10:05 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Sisterchicks Go Brit by Robin Jones Gunn

Reviewed by Jill Hart

It's official. I want to be a SisterChick when I grow up. I hope I might be so lucky. Robin Jones Gunn's SisterChick series is centered around the lives of two "midlife mamas", Elizabeth (Liz) and Kellie. The two friends have been through ups and downs together and know each other almost well enough to read the other's thoughts.

Sisterchicks Go Brit, the seventh book in the series, finds Liz and Kellie on their way to see Big Ben. How they end up traveling to the UK is a story in itself, but I'll leave that a mystery because what's best about the book is what's in the middle - the trip itself. The gals visit all of the places I'd like to go if I were cross the pond - the old haunts of C.S. Lewis and J.R.R. Tolkien, the sights and sounds of London, shopping at Portabella Road in Knotting Hill. Ahhh, I could envision myself alongside them as they bopped from place to place. (And bop they did.)

Liz and Kellie have quite a journey. They are spectators at a village pancake race, taken on a whirlwind tour of British authors sites, and even end up in a hot air balloon. If that isn't enough, one of them manages to get herself pulled aside for questioning on The Underground.

I've read many of Gunn's other books, but I actually jumped into this series with this book. Even though I didn't have a lot of background on the characters, the book was enjoyable and held it's own. Although these mamas are middle-aged I still related to them and laughed with them along the way. I liked the book enough that I've already gone out and found myself a copy of the first book so that I can start from the beginning and experience life through the eyes of the two hilarious chicks. I almost forgot to mention, Gunn includes a bonus for her fans in the back of the book. She shares pictures and thoughts of her own trip to the UK as well as an excerpt from the Sisterchicks devotional, Take Flight.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try I Heart Bloomberg by Melody Carlson

Posted by Aigua Media on May 8, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (5)

May 5, 2008 12:48 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Family Friendly Working by Antonia Chitty

Reviewed by Zoe Lea

As I work from home and have a boisterous four year old to deal with, I jumped at the chance to review this book hoping for lots of ideas and advice. I’m happy to say that I wasn’t let down.

The title and by-line ‘Inspiring Ideas for making money when you have kids’ is tackled from all angles in a practical and realistic manner. The 10 Chapters cover a wide range of themes in the area of flexible working, from ‘Finding ways to work’ and ‘Growing your business’ to a very clear ‘How to guide.’

Unlike lots of other books in this field, Family Friendly Working draws on experiences from parents and carers at every opportunity, so the book is filled with real-life case studies of what people have done, more or less on every page. I did find this inspiring, but as there were more than a hundred parents featured in the book, there was a slight sense of over-kill to it.

That being said, the book is filled with good ideas, tips and advice. It’s a good read and a great starting point for anyone wondering how to achieve that work/life balance.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Zoe's website, Flexible Working Life

Posted by Keris on May 5, 2008 in British Authors, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Self development | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 30, 2008 11:09 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Addition by Toni Jordan

Reviewed by Sarah Hague

We all have our little foibles; certain obsessions such as keeping an immaculate house, cleanliness, football, celebrities' private lives, rescuing cats. Sometimes these obsessions take over, but at what point do they become an OCD?

Grace Lisa Vandenburg is obsessed with numbers. She counts. Everything. Her whole life is regimented by a strict routine based around numbers, but her obsession is also part of her, an integral part. It's just that it has taken her over to the point where she can no longer function in the real world. She doesn't believe she has a problem though, because her hero Nikola Tesla was also obsessed with numbers and he was a genius. She keeps a photo of him next to her single bed.

When she meets Seamus, however, he encourages her to accept that she would be better off, and happier after going through treatment for her OCD. This includes taking powerful drugs and joining a therapy group of 'Germophobics'.

As we join Grace on her journey through her treatment, we discover that it's not that simple removing an integral part of oneself. Normality is a relative issue.

Addition is full of humour and charm. It takes a tender look at the way people suffer from OCDs but does not descend into whimsy. Grace is an intelligent former teacher with a sharp tongue. Her observations are witty, although the tragedy of her obsession at its height is also thought-provoking.

Love and regimented routines are rarely compatible. Will Grace succumb to the strictures of her OCD and lose Seamus forever?

A lovely read.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Miss Understanding by Stephanie Lessing

Posted by Aigua Media on April 30, 2008 in New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (19)

April 29, 2008 11:41 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Candy Girl by Diablo Cody

I had to read Candy Girl after watching and completely ADORING the movie Juno, the screenplay of which was written by Diablo Cody.

Candy Girl is subtitled "a year in the life of an unlikely stripper" and does exactly what it says on the tin. After moving to Minneapolis, Cody was working in an advertising agency and living with a musician she met on the internet. Bored at work and passing a strip club one day, she wonders what it would be like to strip. And so she volunteers for amateur night.

Cody finds her first experience of stripping both terrifying and exhilarating and soon she's stripping regularly. From stripping she moves on to lapdancing, poledancing and more, eventually working in the Dollhouse, a revolting-sounding peepshow.

Cody's writing is enormously honest and entertaining, but even a couple of weeks after finishing the book, I haven't been able to work out what Cody got out of stripping. She suggests that she did it to challenge and frighten herself, but I didn't find that reasoning entirely convincing.

As I read the book, I argued with myself about whether I was for or against stripping - vacillating between it being a valid way to earn a good living by taking advantage of men's perversions and being, you know, a misogynist and patriarchal disgrace. By the end of Candy Girl I was totally resolved that it's a blight on society and no right-thinking woman should do it willingly. But, of course, I might be wrong.

Oh and remember when I read Good Vibrations and said there was one section that made me sick to my stomach? Well there's a bit in Candy Girl that's (arguably) even worse.

So Candy Girl is absolutely not for the faint-hearted, but it's a thought-provoking and entertaining read.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Good Vibrations by Ayn Carrillo

Posted by Aigua Media on April 29, 2008 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (10)

April 25, 2008 12:26 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Fifteen Minutes of Shame by Lisa Daily

Lisa Daily is a relationships expert and columnist and Fifteen Minutes of Shame is her first novel. I was strangely put off by her day job since I assumed - incorrectly as it turned out - that Daily would simply transmit her nonfiction knowledge to a novel. In fact, Fifteen Minutes of Shame is fun, funny, gripping and moving.

Darby Vaughn - "America's favourite TV dating expert" - is happily married to Will, the love of her life and father to the other loves of her life - his two children from a previous marriage, Lilly and Aidan. Of course, when I say Darby is happily married, what I mean is that she thought she was happily married but, as the book begins, we learn that Will is not so happy. In fact, Darby suspects that he's cheating and learns that she was right ... on national TV.

Humiliated, heartbroken and at risk of losing everything - not just her husband, but her kids, her house and her career - Darby retreats to stay with a friend and employs a divorce lawyer. A gorgeous divorce lawyer named, Holt. Yes, Holt.

Glossing over the name (Holt?), I loved Fifteen Minutes of Shame. I felt for Darby every second - her shock at Will's betrayal, her attempts to rebuild her life and career, and the pain of being separated from the children she loved, was raising and had come to think of as her own.

(The book raised a serious, and heartbreaking, point I'd never even thought of before - that of step-parents' rights. They don't have any, so you could feasibly spend years raising and loving children, split from their "natural" parent and not even have any right of visitation, let alone hope of any kind of custody.)

Some bits of the book didn't ring entirely true - I could have done without Darby's foray into reality show dating - but that was more than made up for by the character of Darby, who I felt like I knew. And then there's Holt - name aside, the man's a fox.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Marshmallows for Breakfast by Dorothy Koomson

Posted by Aigua Media on April 25, 2008 in American Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (5)

April 23, 2008 11:38 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Small World by Matt Beaumont

Reviewed by Deborah Riccio

If, like me, you loved Matt Beaumont's last offerings - E and the wonderfully easy, laugh-out-loud funny Staying Alive - then be prepared to have to take a little more time over his latest contribution to the world of (dare I say it?) lad lit. It's a bit hard going and I don't mean in a metaphysical way.

The tagline on the cover reads "Some paths cross, others collide", and there's no doubt about it, the premise is a great one: all our paths cross somewhere and sometime one day either in a big way or without us even noticing.

But - and this is a Big BUT - I found it very difficult trying to keep track of names and situations when the 10 (yes, 10) main characters appear in the first chapter. In all there are 17 characters to get to grips with, plus three or four who don't have their own voice, but appear as significant others to the main ones.

There's a couple trying for a baby (only he's ambivalent and she doesn't know) and they're friends with another couple who have four kids (and they feel as uncomfortable having kids as the friends who can't but they don't know that either). And they're friends with another couple, one of which is besotted to the point of stalking, one half of the first couple mentioned.

Phew. But that's not all.

There's also au pairs who'd rather not, a policeman struggling with his temper, his wife and the local drunk, a waiter dreaming of stand-up comedy, a comedian who's losing the will, a mother frantic for her streetwise son who keeps getting nicked because of the way he looks and a shop assistant who loves the bones of him if only he had time to notice.

And as these are all written in the first person - present, the whole thing has more the feel of a script than a novel and I spent most of the first few chapters having to turn back and find out who was married to/sleeping with/working with/mother or father to and/or nanny of and where they'd got up to last.

That said, each storyline was particularly well crafted and the whole thing flowed seamlessly and rather cleverly. Sex, age, creed, social position, deviance, you name it, this book has got it. There's raw emotion, wishful thinking, regrets, desires, some good one-liners (not least from the stand-up wannabe) oh, and the odd murder. And as every good plan should, it all comes together in the end, one way or another.

It's a bit like peeking through someone's net curtains - from the outside - and getting a covetous insight into their personal world. In a good way of course.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Two Doors Down by Annie McCartney

Posted by Keris on April 23, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 22, 2008 11:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Once Upon Stilettos by Shanna Swendson

I've wanted to read Shanna Swendson's Once Upon Stilettos for ages, but somehow hadn't got around to it. I finally managed to snuggle down with it over one of the recent rainy and miserable weekends and it brightened me up considerably!

The first book in the series, Enchanted Inc, sees innocent Texan, Katie, living in New York and learning that she is a magical immune - in other words she can see magical acts - but is unaffected by them, which sees her recruited by MSI, Magic, Spells and Illusions, Inc.

In Once Upon Stilettos, Katie's job (she's assistant to Merlin - yes, *that* Merlin) is going very well except it seems MSI may be harbouring a spy. She's got a crush on one of her colleagues, Owen, but she's actually dating another colleague, Ethan. She's put in charge of the Secret Santa as a team-building exercise. And then her parents decide to come to New York for a visit.

Katie's horrified when it seems her mother can see the magical happenings around them. Her mum can't also be an immune, can she? I say also, it seems that Katie's immunity might be on the wane, which couldn't happen at a worse time: how can Katie find the spy without revealing she's lost her immunity? And will she get it back? And, if not, will she be out of a job (and the chance to see Owen every day)?

I enjoyed this book every bit as much as the first in the series. They're so sweet-natured and such good fun. I certainly won't leave it so long before reading the next in the series, Damsel Under Stress.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Jinx by Meg Cabot

Posted by Aigua Media on April 22, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (7)

April 21, 2008 5:54 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Strange Bedpersons by Jennifer Crusie

Strangebedpersons Strange Bedpersons is one of Jennifer Crusie's early books. It was published by the Harlequinn Temptation line back in 1994 and, as a category novel, it's shorter than her later stand-alone titles.

Nick Jamieson is the exact opposite of Tess Newhart. He's a straight-laced, conservative Republican lawyer and she's free-spirited, out-spoken and was brought up in a hippy commune.

After a short fling, the two are friends of a kind, and Tess agrees - as a favour and against her better instincts - to accompany Nick on a business trip.

It's a light romance, so you know exactly what you will be getting. Nick and Tess fall in love; getting to know each other properly and making compromises that let you know their happy ever after will last beyond the last page of the book.

It's funny and quick-witted with great characters. I loved Tess's best friend, Gina, and marvelled (once again) at how good Crusie is at creating charasmatic, memorable people.

Okay, so it's not got the depth of her later novels - and it's probably got the flimsiest plot that I've seen in a Crusie - but for a short, fun read, you'd be hard pushed to find better.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: The Fortune Quilt by Lani Diane Rich

Posted by Sarah Painter on April 21, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (6)

April 14, 2008 9:01 AM

BOOK REVIEW: All You Need is Love by Mary Malone

Reviewed by Claire Allan

With so many new faces on the Irish writing scene at the moment, it can be easy to miss a few gems.

All You Need is Love by Mary Malone is a warm-hearted, fast paced and action filled novel that digs a little bit deeper than average women's fiction. In fact the title is misleading - this is a book that could easily be dismissed as light-hearted fluff - but Malone, one known to buck the trend, uses her second novel to look at the growing drugs culture among Ireland's young people.

It centres around Georgina, a young and enthusiastic journalist, who has her share of drama in the newsroom as well as at home. As the eldest of three children, she has taken on the role left behind by her late mother and as the pressure grows in work, something has to give.

The world of work and home collide when her younger brother, Luke, becomes embroiled in a car accident which reveals his dealings with drugs and Georgina has to decided whether to put her family, or her career first.

Of course being women's fiction, the book always tells the story of Georgina's best friend Val - a single mother doing a grand old job of raising her four year. However when the four year old is involved her own drama, the girls' friendship is tested.

I have to applaud Malone for dealing with a subject that wouldn't normally be top of the agenda in women's fiction. Her writing oozes warmth and charm and she isn't afraid to go one step further for a good hook.
Having worked in local journalism myself for 10 years, her portrayal of the newsroom was fairly accurate - but I did find it at times difficult to warm to Georgina. I much preferred the best friend Val, who seemed to have her head on her shoulders.

The book, of course, contains a love interest in the form of news editor Tim - but I did find it a little stretched to see Georgina pursue him so soon into her new job. (But then I have a problem generally with in-house romances in chick lit - it's a little cliched).

But putting this all together, this is a book which makes for perfect reading if you want something with a little more bite. Malone is sure to build herself a larger following with All You Need is Love and it will be interesting to see what she tackles next.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try All I Want Is You by Martina Reilly

Posted by Aigua Media on April 14, 2008 in Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (9)

April 11, 2008 11:40 AM

BOOK REVIEW: How I Write by Janet Evanovich and Ina Yalof

Since I love Janet Evanovich's books so much, it was only natural that I would want to read the guide she has written to how she actually *writes* them.

How I Write is basically a glorified collection of the writing FAQs gathered from Evanovich's website, with occasional interjections from co-writer Ina Yalof and Evanovich's daughter - and webmaster - Alex, but that's not to say it's not entertaining and valuable, just a bit, well, basic. There is little writing advice that you wouldn't already be aware of had you read any sort of introduction to writing.

What makes it different is Evanovich's experience and her openness and honesty. Also, writing tutorials are illuminated with examples from the Plum books, which is really helpful.

I'm fascinated by how Evanovich came to write the Plum books (after being a relatively successful author of category romance) along with how she treats the business side of being an author and there's a lot of enlightening information on those subjects in this book. It also features details of Evanovich's writing life, which, if you're as nosy about authors' lives as I am, you'll find fascinating.

If you're looking for a general writing guide there are other books I'd recommend ahead of this one, but if you're an Evanovich fan or as interested in writers as writing, then I have no doubt you'll enjoy this book.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Wannabe a Writer by Jane Wenham-Jones

Posted by Aigua Media on April 11, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

April 10, 2008 6:17 PM

BOOK REVIEW: No Good Girls by Jean Marie Pierson

Nogoodgirls I requested this book after seeing the fabby book trailer and I must say, I wasn't disappointed.

It is, however, a classic case of the wrong cover being slapped on a book. It's garish, uses cartoon - a pet hate of mine - and simply doesn't match the content. No Good Girls is about a group of female best friends in New York and it is funnier, snarkier and quirkier than the cover suggests...

Geri O'Brien works for a publishing house while collecting rejections for her screenplay. She hangs out with her best friends, Maria, Emmy and Sally and they collectively wonder when they will get their New York Minute.

Maria is a cop looking for action but stuck on the quiet day-shift, Emmy is nursing an unrequited crush and Sally wants a promotion and a man.

While the plot has plenty of action, thrills and slapstick humour, the real strength of this book is Geri's voice. I just loved it. She is an individual, funny heroine with an imaginary friend called J.T. and something of a death wish.

The supporting characters - like J.T. and Geri's car enthusiast dad - were great, too.

Chock-full of brilliant one-liners, film references, and fantastic dialogue, Jean Marie Pierson has won my heart. Hurry up and write another book, please!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Stupid and Contagious by Caprice Crane

Posted by Sarah Painter on April 10, 2008 in American Authors, Book covers, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (7)

BOOK REVIEW: Stuck in the Middle by Virginia Smith

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Joan. Boring name for a boring life. Or so Joan believes until she meets her new next door neighbor. The handsome doctor her age make Joan realize that there may be more to life than settling for living at home, getting up every morning to go to an unfulfilling career and wishing she was living her one of her sisters' lives. But, Joan knows she can't make a change because no one would be there to care for her aging grandmother - a job that she has taken upon herself, but truly enjoys. Not to mention, the doctor may be adorable, but he's also a Christian. And Joan's not so sure that's what she needs right now. Her life is comfortable - why complicate it with thoughts of love and religion. Joan's not sure her life can handle either.

Stuck in the Middle is a picture of what life as like middle child. It seems most three daughter families have the smart, 'motherly' older sister; the sweet, carefree younger sister ... and the insecure, people-pleasing middle child. Joan is the epitome of a middle child and yet she's easy to love. I was rooting for her from the very beginning. The two other sisters frustrated me at first, but as the book progresses you learn how much they care about their sister and they endear themselves as well.

Stuck in the Middle is the first book in the Sister-to-Sister Series and Virginia Smith's sixth book. Smith's contemporary fiction is filled with humor as well as meaningful lessons for life. There is one specific section in the book that really made me pause and re-evaluate how I think about my life (I don't want to give it away, but look for the chocolate ice cream story). I love a book that sticks with me. Weeks after I put it down, it still comes to mind and continues to make me think.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Hanging Up by Delia Ephron (non-inspirational)

Posted by Keris on April 10, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (4)

April 7, 2008 4:45 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Chocolate Run by Dorothy Koomson

Chocolaterun Amber Salpone believes in chocolate and not a lot else. Chocolate has been a reliable friend in an otherwise frightening world. Amber's childhood has left her with trust and commitment issues and a tendency to avoid conflict and love wherever possible.

She categorises the people she meets as types of chocolate and goes to the supermarket to sniff chocolate (yes, really) when stressed.

Amber is a sympathetic character but she's not pathetic. I loved the fact that she seems to have a healthy body image and doesn't angst over her size (much) and that she is successful at work.

It's just in her personal life where Amber all goes to pot. When she sleeps with her best friend and famous lothario Greg Walterson, she goes into meltdown. They manage a relationship (which they keep secret from their two mutual friends), but Amber is terrified by the intimacy.

Added to this, her other best friend - Jen - is being utterly horrible and her family still has the power to disconcert her.

Amber's past reaction to emotional problems has been to do a chocolate run - to another city, but this time she tries to face it all.

As Amber is in denial about relationships, she misses some obvious cues and doesn't always act very rationally. However, it is testament to Koomson's writing that this comes across as realistic rather than infuriating.

The Chocolate Run is a character-driven book and very focused on emotions and Amber's past (and her thoughts about the past). Not a huge amount happens and at times I found myself wanting to skip ahead, but it is well-written and warm, so perhaps I just wasn't entirely in the right mood.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: The Saving Graces by Patricia Gaffney

Posted by Sarah Painter on April 7, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

MORE ON MONDAY: In Stitches: the Highs and Lows of Life as an A&E Doctor by Dr Nick Edwards

Reviewed by author and Corrieblog editor, Sue Haasler

I picked In Stitches up by chance - I love reading about other people's lives, and as I'm a huge fan of TV medical dramas I couldn't resist. However, any hope of buckets of blood and lashings of torrid linen-cupboard action are dispelled in the introduction: "It is a bit like what you see in TV programmes such as ER," the author says, "but with less sex and more paper work."

The book started out as a blog to vent his frustrations and Dr Edwards (not his real name) hopes the book becomes a campaigning tool against the privatisation and marketisation happening to the NHS. But it's also a damn good read.

The day-to-day realities of being on the front line of hospital services is passionately, often humorously and sometimes heartbreakingly conveyed. There are the funny stories of people with mobile phones stuck in places they really shouldn't have been, and the desperately sad ones like the 14 year old girl who took an overdose and left a note asking her parents to look after her guinea pig (she survived). And there's
top advice, too. I now know not to get ill on the first Wednesday in August or the last Friday of the month. Why? You'll have to read the book.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Heat by Bill Buford (an expose of the restaurant industry)

Being a full-time doctor, Nick's having trouble getting publicity for the book, particularly as he needs to hide behind his pseudonym. He is hoping someone reading might be able to help him with marketing the book.

If you're interested in featuring the book or Nick on your site or blog - or are able to offer any other kind of marketing assistance - please email us and we'll put you in touch with him. Thanks.

Posted by Keris on April 7, 2008 in British Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

April 2, 2008 9:36 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Kept Man by Jami Attenberg

Reviewed by Sarah Hague

How would you react if your loved one had a stupid domestic accident and ended up in a coma? Would you pull the plug or hold onto the hope that s/he would wake up? How long would you hold onto that hope? A few weeks? Few months? A year?

Jarvis Miller has been waiting for her beloved husband Martin, an artist, to wake up for six years. For six years she herself has been living in a limbo-land of visiting him, waiting, loving, and being brave.

Then her washing machine breaks down and, one Tuesday, she has to go to a launderette where she meets a group of three kept men. They all have dynamic working wives so can pursue their own interests as they like. They are the first people Jarvis has communicated with in six years, and she likes them, so she goes back next Tuesday.

In her gradual coming to terms with Martin's living death, she makes some discoveries which change her perspective on her situation, and she realises that her wonderful husband was not quite the loving faithful husband he pretended to be.

The story unfolds with tactical brilliance. Jarvis is a complex character - both brave and vulnerable. Her artist husband is the centre of her life even in his comatosed state - she has remained a faithful, sad, loving wife. But as she herself wakes up, so we follow her as she explores why she is hanging on, and whether she should continue to do so.

Superbly written, it's the story of one woman's journey from a living death, towards Life, whatever it might hold. A fantastic read, with colourful, charming characters and strong human warmth.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold

Posted by Keris on April 2, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

April 1, 2008 7:20 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Pretty Face by Mary Hogan

I enjoyed Mary Hogan's book The Serious Kiss, but I wasn't wild about it. I enjoyed Pretty Face much more, even though it deals with some of the same issues (specifically: weight).

In Pretty Face, Hayley is overweight and the boys she likes just want to be friends. Yes, she's got a pretty face, but if they could just look past her weight, they'd see she has a lovely personality too. But they don't. And neither does her mother. Having conquered a weight problem of her own, Hayley's mother is determined to help her daughter with her own issues, but she's going about it all wrong (so wrong, in fact, that I wanted to beat her around the head with a box of Krispy Kremes).

Fortunately for Hayley, her parents decide to send her to stay with friends in Italy for the summer. Friends who can see past the weight and give Hayley the space to become comfortable with herself.

The story itself is very cliched (how many books have you read with an overweight heroine who finds herself and loses weight?), but I didn't care. I flew through it.

I loved Hayley from the first page and the descriptions of Italy (and the food!) made my mouth water. It was such an easy read and I kept wondering what it reminded me and then I realised it was like one of the Sweet Dreams books I used to be obsessed with.

In fact, I wish it had been around when I was an overweight teenager myself, it would have become one of my favourite books.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Serious Kiss by Mary Hogan

Ah, the covers. I complained in my review of The Serious Kiss that the (UK) cover didn't suit the book and I'd say the same for Pretty Face - it's just too vague. But while I like the design of the US cover (on the left), it almost seems too specific. (I know, I'm impossible to please!)

What do you think? Which do you prefer?

Posted by Keris on April 1, 2008 in Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

March 31, 2008 4:31 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Since I Don't Have You by Louise Candlish

Reviewed by Amy Sheehan

Since I Don’t Have You is based on a sad premise. Rachel, Mariel and Jenny are best friends who share everything, and their children Emma, Catherine, and Daisy are best friends too. The women make a promise that they will look after each other’s daughters if anything should ever happen to one of them. It never crosses their minds that tragedy could strike elsewhere.

Then the unthinkable happens and Rachel’s life is changed forever. Unable to continue in her marriage to husband Oliver, she leaves him and her friends behind to start a new life on the Greek island of Santorini. There, with the help of new friends Eleni and Ingrid, she slowly starts to rebuild her existence. At the same time, she keeps in contact with the past by hiring a private investigator, Johnny Palmer, so she can keep watching over Catherine and Daisy, and secretly intervene in times of crisis. The interaction between Rachel and Johnny was especially touching and beautifully written.

The book reminded me quite a bit of Cecelia Ahern’s PS I Love You, apart from the writing being more mature; and instead of Rachel receiving guidance in the form of letters from a guardian angel, she is the one guiding others, acting as guardian angel to the children she left behind. Throughout the book, the reader also learns why Rachel chose Santorini of all places for her retreat, as well as about her family’s history with the island, especially linked to the earthquake there in 1956.

Like PS, it has a hopeful, if bittersweet, ending, and the descriptions of Greece are beautiful. This and the gentle, relaxing pace of the book would probably make it a good holiday novel. It’s not just a book about grief and coming to terms with loss; it’s about searching for your path in life; celebrating friendship, and finding out ways to be happy. It’s a very moving, well-written, inspirational read.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try My Best Friend's Girl by Dorothy Koomson

Posted by Keris on March 31, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 28, 2008 10:16 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Queen of Babble in the Big City by Meg Cabot

Queen of Babble is, I think, the only Meg Cabot book that actually disappointed me. Of course, it's Meg, so it was still funny and sweet, but it reminded me too much of Sophie Kinsella's Can You Keep A Secret (my favourite Kinsella book).

Queen of Babble in the Big City is the second book in the Lizzie Nicholls trilogy and I enjoyed it much more than the first.

Following their summer romance, Lizzie is staying with Luke in his mother's New York (Fifth Avenue, no less) apartment. She wants to find a job restoring wedding dresses, but, since the only job she can find is unpaid, she has to take a morning job as a receptionist in her friend Chaz's father's law firm.

Best friend Shari is staying with Chaz (her boyfriend) until she and Lizzie can get a place together, but it seems like things aren't going well in her relationship with Chaz. Her job, however, is fabulous. So fabulous, that she's spending all her time there (and with her new boss).

Can Lizzie find a job doing what she loves (and getting paid for it)? Can she get Luke to commit? Can she help Shari and Chaz sort out their problems? And can she cope when Luke's parents come to visit?

Queen of Babble in the Big City is charming, sweet and funny and Lizzie seemed much more mature than she did in the first book (although this time she reminded me of Becky Bloomwood!). She's still sweet and naive, but this time it was more endearing than irritating so I'll definitely be reading the final book (Queen of Babble Gets Hitched).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Now can we talk covers? The UK cover above is offensively boring, in my opinion. It's almost as if they just couldn't be bothered and so copied the pattern from some leftover wrapping paper... And what's with the back-to-front "B"? Disappointing.

The US covers (hardback, left, and paperback, right) are much nicer.

Which is your favourite?

Posted by Keris on March 28, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Series | Permalink | Comments (6)

March 26, 2008 11:47 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Girl Who Stopped Swimming by Joshilyn Jackson

I first read about Joshilyn Jackson's The Girl Who Stopped Swimming when we interviewed her in August 2006 and I've been keen to read it since. I loved Jackson's first book gods in Alabama and former Trashionista co-editor Diane adored her second, Between, Georgia (it's been on my bookshelf for over a year).

It's an inspired idea - Laurel wakes up one night with a ghost beside her bed. It's her 13-year-old daughter's best friend, Mollly, and she shows Laurel her body, floating in Laurel's swimming pool.

The police rule it as an accidental death, but Laurel's not so sure. Didn't she see a shadow in the garden just before finding Molly's body? And wasn't that the hair of local oddball, Stan Webelow, she glimpsed as the police arrived? She's also concerned about her own daughter, Shelby's, evasive behaviour.

And then there's the family's houseguest, Bet, who has come to stay from DeLop, a beyond-depressed and depressing former mining town where Laurel's mother grew up and got away from.

To get to the bottom of everything - and particularly to stop Shelby becoming a suspect - Laurel needs her sister, Thalia, but she and Thalia are no longer speaking. Neither approves of the other's lifestyle and any attempts at finding common ground always seem to end in misery. Inevitably, Thalia's visit results in the exposing of family secrets that Laurel, not to mention her mother, have been trying to deny for years.

I could barely put The Girl Who Stopped Swimming down, although it would be hard to say I enjoyed it. I found it such a sad book on a number of levels. Pretty much every relationship in the book is painful and strained. It's beautifully written and evocatively imagined, which is probably why, by the ending, I felt utterly drained.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Be Mine by Laura Kasischke

Posted by Keris on March 26, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 24, 2008 10:17 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: When You Eat At the Refrigerator, Pull Up A Chair by Geneen Roth

I know, I know, I'm always reviewing non-diet books, but they're such a revelation to me after years of reading actual diet books (okay, WeightWatchers magazine). Geneen Roth's When You Eat at the Refrigerator, Pull Up a Chair is a classic, given credibility in my eyes by having a foreword by Anne Lamott (who I love).

When You Eat... consists of 50 very short chapters (some are only a couple of pages in length) with titles like "Carry a chunk of chocolate everywhere" and "Remind yourself that it's already broken." Weirdly, the word that came to mind when I was typing that was "Californian" so I checked the About the Author page and discovered that Roth does indeed live in Northern California - what was my point? Oh yes, if you're not comfortable with self-development, if, like Beth Lisick, it's way outside your comfort zone and you're smirking now, I'd say read the book anyway.

I found it reassuring, funny, inspiring and frequently more down to earth than the chapter headings (and that "Californian" business) would have you believe. The subtitle is "50 ways to feel thin, gorgeous, and happy (when you feel anything but)" and that's not to be sniffed (or smirked) at, surely?

I kept it on my bedside table and read one short chapter each day. Now that I've finished it, I've turned back to the beginning to read it again until I get the chance to read another of Roth's books.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The 4-Day Win by Martha Beck

Posted by Aigua Media on March 24, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 20, 2008 8:33 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Silver Bay by Jojo Moyes

Reviewed by Jennie Hughes

Ignore the little tag-line on the front cover – “You have nothing to lose but your heart” – because this book is not the heap of slush that that phrase would imply. (Publishers must really annoy their authors sometimes, because I suspect that Jojo Moyes would have taken those simpering little words and thrown them overboard to rot on the beach.)

Silver Bay is a sparsely-populated paradise in New South Wales where Lisa McCullen is hiding herself and her daughter Hannah from past tragedies and communing with the whales which pass by on migration every year.

Then, real-estate developers arrive in the shape of Mike Dormer who has come to scope the place out for a hotel and leisure complex designed to make mega-bucks for his boss in London, his future father-in-law. The different pace of life, the beauty, the whales, the dolphins, Hannah – and Lisa - all get to him, however, and his priorities change.

This is a well-crafted book with an interesting plot-line revealed in appropriately timed snippets. It is written from the alternating first-person point of view of each of the main characters which serves to bring them alive extremely well. It can sometimes be difficult to remember whose skin you’re in as it is difficult to write an authentic voice for everyone from an 11-year-old girl to an Aussie beach-bum who thinks he’s God’s gift to women, but confusion is surprisingly rare.

As the story of Lisa’s past life is gradually unfolded, along with the tales of the other residents of Silver Bay, there are enough twists and turns in the plot to keep you reading, and although you know from the start there’s going to be a happy ending (it’s a romantic novel, okay?) the actual ending is so impossibly happy that you really don’t foresee it. I cried, dear reader, real tears.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Truffles By The Sea by Julie Carobini

Posted by Sarah Painter on March 20, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 17, 2008 5:29 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Perfect You by Elizabeth Scott

I loved Elizabeth Scott's Bloom and, following my review, Trashi reader Little Willow commented that Perfect You is even better so I could barely wait to read it. I didn't actually prefer Perfect You to Bloom, but I loved it almost as much and that saying a lot (because I really loved Bloom!).

Kate's father has given up his job to sell Perfect You vitamins in the mall. While it may be his dream job, it's not going at all well. So badly, in fact, that the family is in danger of losing their home. Kate's older brother living on the sofa and failing to find a job isn't helping either.

Kate's not thrilled to be working for her dad on a failing mall stall, but since her best friend Anna lost a load of weight, dyed her hair and started hanging around with the popular crowd - dropping Kate like a sandbag - it's not like she's got anything better to do.

Until, that is, Will starts meeting her in the supply closet to make out. It can't be more than that, because she can't stand Will and there's no way he's interested in her. Is he?

I sympathised with Kate throughout because everyone around her was so irritating. (Irritating in a good way, I mean - realistically irritating, rather than irritatingly written!) Her grandmother is condescending and rude. Her father, inconsiderate and unrealistic. Her former friend, Anna, well, I wanted to wring her neck. I loved Will and I loved the banter Kate had with him, but he wasn't quite as sexy as Bloom's Evan.

I found Kate's mother - trying to stay positive and support her husband, while simultaneously wanting the best for her family - the most poignant character (possibly because this is a YA book and, depressingly, I'm closer in age to her than to Kate).

But really I just loved Perfect You. And I'm so thrilled to have discovered Elizabeth Scott's books.

Rating: 4/5 (I would like to give it 4.5, but I can't)

Like this? Try Bloom by Elizabeth Scott

Posted by Keris on March 17, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (4)

BOOK REVIEW: It Must Be Love by Sharon Owens

Reviewed by Claire Allan

Belfast writer Sharon Owen's fifth book It Must Be Love is shamelessly romantic and girlie. Focusing on budding romances, broken hearts and the kind of friendships best formed when people are down on their luck, It Must Be Love is a delightfully upbeat read.

The book tells the story of professional photographer Sarah Quinn who is all set to get married to the eligible Mackenzie Campbell on Christmas Eve. But as the wedding draws nearer she overhears a conversation which leaves her running away from her life to set up a new life for herself in the quaint seaside town of Redstone.

As she rebuilds her life, we are introduced to a host of new characters and their lives. We meet Miriam who is desperate for a baby, at it seems any cost. We also meet writer and journalist Gemma, who's daughter finds herself in a whole heap of trouble in New York. And we meet Aurora, the stylish owner of the local bookshop who is nursing a broken heart, as well as a bruised ego, herself.

What Sharon Owens does wonderfully is create a sense of place. The cottage where Sarah escapes to sounds like a dream place and as for the Miriam's pink kitchen - be still my beating heart!

But it is the warmth of the characters and the strength of their friendships - mixed with a healthy dose of Owens' trademark humour that makes this book a joyful read.

Yes, it touches on many serious issues - bereavement, addiction and infertility - but never in a way that drags the reader down. What comes across most strongly in the book is not the tragedy touching everyone's lives, but their strength of character.

Dare I say, Owens paints such a nice picture that I almost wish I had a Redstone, and a Rose Cottage, to run away to myself - not to mention the hunky love interest in the form of the delectable Ethan.

Where the book falls down is that you want to know more. It rattles along at a great pace but I would have liked the story to continue on just that little bit - to see how life pans out for all the characters who I got to know so well.

We leave them feeling as if they are on the brink of something great. However, it might just be the mark of a good book that when it is done you are longing to know more.

This book doesn't require a great deal of effort and would be best read in front of a roaring fire with a cup of tea in your hand. It's smart, funny and heartwarming and sure to win Owens an even bigger following.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Fortune Quilt by Lani Diane Rich

Posted by Keris on March 17, 2008 in Irish Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (14)

MORE ON MONDAY: Uglies by Scott Westerfield

Uglies Scott Westerfield has taken our modern-day obsession with physical beauty and followed it to the logical end. In his future world, an operation is carried out on every child on their sixteenth birthday, turning them from an 'Ugly' into a 'Pretty'.

As well as bestowing physical perfection, the operation seems to lead to a life of parties and fun.

Tally Youngblood is a typical teenager. She lives in a dormitory-style school, separated from her parents (Uglies and Pretties are not permitted to mix), and eagerly awaits her operation.

Then, Tally meets Shay. Shay is also fifteen, but she has a very different view of the operation. She opens Tally's eyes to a different path - a path that leads to a secret community of renegade Uglies, living in the Rusty Ruins.

Tally cannot make the leap of faith - to sacrifice everything she has dreamed of, in order to join an uncertain and less attractive future. She returns home, only to find that the State knows about her friendship with Shay and has a mission for her: infiltrate the community and then report back on its location.

However, once back with the Uglies, Tally discovers that there is a lot more to the 'turning' operation than becoming beautiful...

This book is a real thrill-ride and the world utterly convincing - and frightening. I raced through it book and couldn't wait to get my hands on the sequels (there are three: Pretties, Specials and Extras).

As well as an adventure story (with an active female protagonist - yay!), it also has lots to say about freedom of thought, individuality and the pursuit of physical ideals. Excellent reading matter, in other words, for any teenage girls you may know...

Rating: 4/5

Like this (identity issues handled in original way)? Try: Split By A Kiss by Luisa Plaja

Posted by Sarah Painter on March 17, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

March 14, 2008 11:03 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Bright Lights & Promises by Pauline McLynn

Reviewed by Fionnuala Kearney

When I realised the author of this book was accomplished actress Pauline McLynn of Father Ted fame (“Go wan, Go wan”), I have to admit I was surprised. Not only is she the author of this book but several others too – some people have all the talent eh?

Bright Lights and Promises is a lovely read introducing sassy main character Susie Vine, a deal making agent with successful London Theatrical agency Arland and Shaw. Susie’s already busy life is further complicated when her mother Valerie, recently separated from her father arrives in London – to stay. Her mother living with her, the demise of her love life, her teenage hormone fuelled son Milo, and the arrival of an old flame all add to a story that’s easy to read and introduces many interesting characters.

These range in age and gender from thirteen to eighty and each one is well drawn and immediately draws the reader in to the glitzy world Pauline McLynn has created. There’s John Forbes, the hunky successful star with a heart, his elderly father Reg, also an actor in his twilight years. I think though that she succeeds particularly with her main character. Just for a while, I thought I was Susie Vine. I lived her life, felt her love and pain, and yeah even cried her tears. No mean feat.

If I had to be picky, I think the book was a little too long and without offering spoilers, could perhaps have got to the love bits a little sooner – but that’s being picky! I really enjoyed the read and will definitely keep an eye out for some of her other books. Red this book – Go wan, go wan!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Other Side of the Story by Marian Keyes

Posted by Keris on March 14, 2008 in Irish Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 11, 2008 12:42 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Sisterhood by Emily Barr

Reviewed by Deborah Riccio

The Sisterhood surprised me in many ways. Not least the way in which teacher, Liz Greene's long-standing boyfriend leaves her and heralds the first shocker right at the start. Confused and incredibly hurt, she embarks on a one-night stand and finds herself pregnant. This, rather unexpectedly, doesn't tip her over the edge but makes her realise that it might be what she needs and so sets out to deal with it. On her own.

Meanwhile in a chateau in France, the privileged Helen discovers a secret her mother has been keeping from her - she has a sister she never knew existed and she lives in England. This, Helen believes, is the reason for the restlessness throughout her own life. If she brings her sister back, she is certain she will earn the love and pride she so desperately craves from her mother. So she leaves for England with nothing but her father's credit card.

Helen's search leads her to Liz and the story follows their lives as separate people becoming united by the strangest, measured means.

The twists are subtle, surprising and multi-faceted. Reading it makes you realise things are never entirely what they seem - that nobody's life is as straightforward as it appears or sounds and we only get to see what is portrayed to us by others. And the ending is as inspired as the beginning. A cracking good read that made me want to read more by Ms Barr.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try A Tale of Two Sisters by Anna Maxted

Posted by Keris on March 11, 2008 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 10, 2008 12:20 PM

PREVIEW REVIEW: Crossed Bones by Jane Johnson

Reviewed by Jennie Hughes

If the sub-title of Crossed Bones - 'the all-true adventures and most unlikely romance of a pirate’s slave girl - puts you off a little, don’t worry; there’s not a ripped bodice or heaving bosom anywhere. Well, apart from on the cover, but we'll gloss over that...

It’s the story of a seventeenth-century Cornish girl, Cat, who is a talented needlewoman dreaming dreams of a more exotic future than the one that seems likely – marriage to her cousin, drudgery, babies – when a pirate ship raids her village and carries her and several of her neighbours and relatives off to be slaves in Morocco.

There Cat eventually ends up teaching embroidery to her master’s womenfolk and, of course, falling in love with him and rejecting her Cornish cousin who has braved hell and high water to rescue her.

The tale is interwoven with the story of Julia, also a needlewoman, who finds Cat’s story written in the margins of an old embroidery pattern-book. She thinks she may be distantly related to Cat and goes to Morocco to research the story further, where she meets her own destiny, and true love.

The historical and Moorish details are convincing, interesting and well-described. The two stories are neatly stitched together and the writing keeps you reading on. Altogether an enjoyable book, and one which leaves you feeling you may have learnt something as well – an added bonus!

Crossed Bones is out (in hardback) on 3 April.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: The Vanishing Point by Mary Sharratt

Posted by Sarah Painter on March 10, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 6, 2008 12:42 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Trouble With Marriage by Debby Holt

Troublewithmarriage The Trouble With Marriage is more Joanna Trollope than Sophie Kinsella, but there is nothing wrong with that.

It's subtitled 'What happens after the 'happy ever after'?' and I was looking forward to astute observations on marriage, love and parenthood... And I wasn't disappointed.

When Robin - popular, handsome and confident - asked Tilly to marry him, it was the happiest day of her life. Ten years later and, although still utterly besoted with Robin, Tilly feels the sparkle has gone out of their relationship.

Robin is stressed at work, while at home the household bills, chores, two small children and a disobedient dog are adding to the strain.

When Tilly's holier-than-thou mother-in-law moves nearby and begins interfering, and Robin's glamorous ex-girlfriend shows up, Tilly's marriage hits crisis point.

About halfway through the book, I had predicted exactly how things were going to unfold. However, Holt's writing is very engaging and I thoroughly enjoyed Tilly's journey. It's always fun to cheer on a likeable character as she learns to stand on her own two feet.

A gentle, warm read and perfect for a rainy afternoon.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Hens Dancing by Raffaela Barker

Posted by Sarah Painter on March 6, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 3, 2008 1:02 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Ballroom Class by Lucy Dillon

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

I was very excited when I received ‘The Ballroom Class’ by Lucy Dillon for two reasons. 1) I love Strictly Come Dancing (who doesn’t – even my Dad is a massive fan) 2) like the character Lauren in the book I too dragged my husband-to-be to dance lessons for our wedding (we learned the rumba to ‘I’ve had (the time of my life)’ – ahh).

This is a story about couples forming friendships and repairing relationships on and off the dance floor. Katie believes her husband Ross has become more like a brother to her. She is a working Mum and he a stay at home Dad. She can’t help working late – her boss demands it – so would it hurt him too much to put the Hoover around during the day?

Lauren, the bride to be, is having increasingly ambitious plans for her wedding day extravaganza, encouraged by her mother-in-law to be. Lauren’s mother, Bridget, is having sleepless nights over the sheer cost of it all. Angelica has returned to the town where she grew up, where her past is about to catch up with her. As an ex professional dancer (with fake tan, caked on make up – the lot) she decides to set up weekly dance lessons in the local dance hall.

Whilst learning rock ‘n’ roll, the foxtrot and the tango relationships start to unravel. Can the dancing eventually put them back together?

Sometimes when you are really excited by a new film or a new book you can end up disappointed. Not in the case of ‘The Ballroom Class’. The relationships are intense and real. There are no superficial characters out of a large cast. Ross and Katie’s relationship was one which I could completely empathise. As a fan of ballroom dancing I can imagine what they are doing on the dance floor but you don’t have to be a fan of dancing to enjoy this book. If you enjoy reading about relationships and all the complexities that go with it then this is for you. The Ballroom Dancing is the entertaining scenery.

About three quarters of the way through though I did feel the plot lost its pace which was a little frustrating. This is what is stopping me from giving this fine debut novel a five out of five. (But it is a high four.)

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Dancing With Mules by Morag Prunty

Posted by Keris on March 3, 2008 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 29, 2008 10:25 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Forget Me Not by Isabel Wolff

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

The cover of Forget Me Not by Isabel Wolff made me think the story was going to be a bit ‘wishy washy’. Neither the design nor the title does the book justice; they don’t look or sound promising, unlike the plot and the main character (who incidentally is nothing like the character drawn on the front).

Anna Temple is a former city career woman, who decided to swap her fast paced life for garden design after her mother suddenly died. On the night of her leaving do, she meets Xan resulting in Milly nine months later. Xan, with no sense of responsibility (so much so you want to throttle him) leaves soon after she breaks the news, for Indonesia, leaving Anna pregnant and having to raise their child alone. She tries to forget about her daughter's father and concentrates on putting her life back together.

This book is packed with subplots featuring a host of characters, including a nanny, a maternity nurse called Elaine with her nephew Jamie and a new man for Anna called Patrick. We also learn about Anna’s father and his new secret life as well as her new best friend, Jenny - why won’t she open up to Anna? There is also a ‘shocking’ family secret, which to be fair I saw coming. I think Jenny’s secret was also a little obvious which made me wonder why a seemingly intelligent woman such as Anna didn’t grasp things sooner. Despite this, I really enjoyed the book.

Wolff has created believable and real characters that you could envisage living around the corner from you and the story flows along well. It also has the unputdownable factor, so I did have a few late nights. There is plenty of detail for the book to come alive, including as an added bonus for any green fingered people out there, an array of gardening tips.

Forget Me Not is a realistic, enjoyable story, touching on a few sensitive issues, with a fully rounded leading character. Just open it up quickly and don’t dwell on that cover.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Solo by Jill Mansell

Posted by Keris on February 29, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 25, 2008 5:11 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Dangerous Admissions by Jane O'Connor

Dangerousadmissions Jane O'Connor has written a raft of books for children, but Dangerous Admissions is her first adult book. It's classic chick lit mystery with a gutsy heroine - single mother Rannie Bookman - a fantastic Manhattan setting and lots of romance and thrills.

Rannie is a freelance copy editor and part-time tour guide for the exclusive Upper West Side private school her son Nate attends (courtesy of her rich WASP ex-mother-in-law).

When the Director of College Admissions is found dead at his desk - and Nate is a suspect, Rannie turns amateur sleuth.

Unlike most chick lit suspense I've read, Dangerous Admissions is written in third person. As well as Rannie's point of view, we get insight into Nate's life and thoughts.

I also really liked the character of Olivia, Nate's friend and fellow Chapel School student. She has an older brother who is a recovering drug addict and another suspect for the murder.

Jane O'Connor's characterisation is truly excellent; the teenagers had distinctive, believable voices, and I really bonded with Rannie.

The plot is suspenseful, with lots of twists and turns, and there is a dash of romance, too.

A fabulous new sleuth on the chick lit mystery scene.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Size Doesn't Matter by Meg Cabot

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 25, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

MORE ON MONDAY: The Poison that Fascinates by Jennifer Clement

Reviewed by Sarah Hague

Some people have a morbid fascination with death, others with the means of death. Emily Neale, half British, half Mexican, collects facts about women who poisoned others. Abandoned as a baby by her mother, she's brought up in Mexico City by her father and Mother Agata, head of the orphanage that Emily's great-grandmother founded and where Emily now often helps out.

We hear that there are saints for almost everything in a devote Catholic Mexican society that is painted with bright, evocative words : the street sellers, the market sellers, the traffic, the smog.

Interspersed with Emily's story are the facts she collects about stories of women who have killed and why. Emily knows that some things are worth killing for.

Finally she meets her cousin Santiago from a remote farm in Chihuahua who has been watching her and disturbing her things.

Jennifer Clement has made a peculiar book sensuously palatable. Emily inhabits a small, restricted world of Mexican superstition, mythology and faith. Santiago changes that world forever bringing with him love and secrets.

It's a fascinating book written with masterful ease.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Keris on February 25, 2008 in More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 20, 2008 2:35 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Starter Wife by Gigi Levangie

I've wanted to read Gigi Levangie's The Starter Wife since I read an interview with the author in the Guardian and just thought she sounded fascinating. Plus then, of course, there was the TV adaptation of the book starring the wonderful Debra Messing. Well, I finally got around to reading it and it was worth the wait.

Gracie Pollock is married to studio head, Kenny. She's a Hollywood wife, with a Hollywood house, Hollywood friends and a Hollywood beauty maintenance programme. She's not happy, but even so she's shocked when Kenny summarily dumps her just before their tenth wedding anniversary, i.e. he "Cruised" her - ended the marriage before the date at which he'd have to pay maintenance.

At first Gracie is devastated. She hasn't just lost her husband, she's lost her entire lifestyle, because no-one in Hollywood is interested in a former "Wife of...", but thanks to the generosity of one of her "real" friends, she and her daughter are able to move, temporarily, to Malibu and start to rebuild their lives.

I really enjoyed this book. I could quite happily have read it in one sitting, so it would be a perfect plane or holiday book. It's got problems - the fact that the lead character is called Gracie and she has a gay friend named Will (and I was already picturing Gracie as Debra Messing), pulled me up every now and then. Also Britney Spears plays quite a major role in the book, which is unfortunate given her recent problems.

Some aspects of the plot (particularly Gracie's love interest) are also pretty unrealistic. But none of that really troubled me, because The Starter Wife is well-written, funny, and packed with Hollywood gossip (all the more credible because Gigi Levangie is married to Hollywood heavyweight Brian Grazer (producer of The Da Vinci Code, 24, and one of Time Magazine's 's 100 Most Influential People in The World).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try You'll Never Nanny In This Town Again by Suzanne Hansen

Posted by Keris on February 20, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 18, 2008 10:19 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Gingerbread by Rachel Cohn

I wasn't actually too excited to read Gingerbread, since a while ago I read the next book in the series and didn't enjoy it as much as I expected too, but Gingerbread was thrust upon me and I was urged to read it, so I did. And I was glad I did, because I loved it.

I was a bit worried as I started reading because Gingerbread reminded me so much of Weetzie Bat and I found myself worrying about who (if anyone) had ripped off who(m), but this only lasted a couple of chapters and then Gingerbread became a totally different book.

The heroine of Gingerbread is (fabulously) named Cyd Charisse. She lives in San Francisco with her parents, Sid and Nancy, and her younger half-siblings. Her real dad lives in New York, but she hasn't seen him for years. In fact, not since he gave her the doll, Gingerbread, who remains her best friend (even though she's really too old for a doll).

Following an ill-fated relationship with a boy at boarding school (and, frankly, an ill-fated relationship with boarding school itself), Cyd Charisse is home, dating surfer boy Shrimp and nurturing a secret crush on his brother. Her relationship with her parents seems to be irrevocably damaged by Cyd Charisse's behaviour, but she is seemingly undaunted, even planning to sue them for legal emancipation. Instead, her parents decide to send her to New York to get to know her father.

I describe Cyd Charisse as "seemingly undaunted" because she is much more damaged than she at first seems and this is what I loved about the book. Cyd Charisse at first comes across as tough and streetwise (do young people still say streetwise? I'm so old...), but by the end of the book she's a different person. I really liked her and found her very true to life (from what I remember of being a teenager...).

In fact, I loved it so much I'm going to go back and re-read the sequel.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Sloppy Firsts by Meg McCafferty

Posted by Keris on February 18, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (4)

February 15, 2008 10:06 AM

BOOK REVIEW: An Offer You Can't Refuse by Jill Mansell

As I've said before, when I was a bookseller Jill Mansell was the author most recommended to me by customers, but somehow I've managed to go years and years without reading any of her books. Finally - finally! - I read one, her latest, An Offer You Can't Refuse, and I'm happy to report that all those customers were right.

It's the story of Lola Malone who, at the age of 17, is offered £10,000 to break up with her boyfriend ... by his mother. Lola is horrified. She is in love with Dougie and believes they'll be together forever. But then she learns a family secret, which forces her to take the money, leaving just a letter for her boyfriend.

After being forced to dump Dougie, Lola moved to Spain, but now she's back, working in a London bookshop and happy with her job and her friends, but, inevitably, she soon bumps into her ex ... and, unsurprisingly really, he has neither forgiven nor forgotten. Lola hasn't forgotten him either - and he's even foxier now he's that bit more mature - but can Lola convince him to give her another chance?

Well, if anyone can, Lola can. I loved Lola. She's bright, spunky, funny, honest and she doesn't take no for an answer. I also loved the secondary characters: Lola's best friend, Gabe, and Dougie's sister, Sally, but my favourite character was EJ, with his fabulously dry sense of humour.

Some aspects of the plot weren't entirely convincing, but the characters and the exuberance of the writing more than made up for it.

I'll definitely be reading more Jill Mansell in the future. My customers used to recommend Maeve Binchy too. Maybe I should give her a go...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Solo by Jill Mansell

Posted by Keris on February 15, 2008 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (8)

February 14, 2008 4:18 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Janice Gentle Gets Sexy by Mavis Cheek

Janciegentlgetssex Okay, so Mavis Cheek is more women's fiction than chick lit, but she's also got a very dry sense of humour and a sly brand of observation that is snarkier than, say, Maeve Binchy. I urge you to give her a try.

Janice Gentle Gets Sexy is one of her older books (first published in 1993) but it's one of my favourites. It's very funny and Janice Gentle is a fantastic character. Plus, it's about a writer, which is a bonus in my book.

Janice Gentle, a reclusive romantic novelist, writes delicate novels-of-the-heart. She wants to make enough money so that she can stop writing and devote her attention to finding the man she loved and lost twenty years ago.

Unfortunately for Janice, her literary agent is an unscrupulous, money-obsessed tyrant, who keeps her fingers firmly stuck to the keyboard.

When Rohanne Bulbecker, a sucessful New York publisher, asks for Janice's help with a new idea, everything changes...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Miss Petttigrew Lives For A Day by Winifred Watson

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 14, 2008 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 6, 2008 12:19 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Earthly Pleasures by Karen Neches

Karen Neches' Earthly Pleasures begins in Heaven, where Skye Sebring is a hospitality greeter. She meets Ryan Blaine, who has a brush with death following a motorbike accident. Unbeknownst to him, Ryan is one of the stars of Heaven's soap opera, Earthly Pleasures, and, after meeting him, Skye is more than intrigued.

Is that not a completely brilliant idea? I love everything about it ... but there's more. When Skye starts training to return to earth, all of life's lessons are contained in the lyrics of Beatles songs. Fabulous, no? Oh yes, there's more...

Down on earth, Ryan is struggling with his marriage. Following a near-fatal accident of her own, his wife Susan has changed almost beyond all recognition. He's not in love with her anymore, but how can he tell her?

Also on earth, care home resident Caroline gets a new roommate: Emily is in a coma she's never expected to recover from, but from which Caroline is determined to retrieve her.

I don't want to say much more because I'm scared of giving anything away. Not only is this book full of surprises (and some shocks), it's funny, moving, sad, thrilling and inspiring.

It would have been 5/5 but I was very slightly disappointed with the ending. If I could have given it 4.5/5 I would. I really, really loved it.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try If Only It Were True by Marc Levy, filmed as Just Like Heaven

Posted by Keris on February 6, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 4, 2008 5:14 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: The Psychology of Joss Whedon: An Unauthorized Exploration of "Buffy', "Angel" and "Firefly"

Psychjosswhedon Joss Whedon is the creator of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, it's spin-off series Angel, Firefly (another series, which sadly only ran for one season) and Serenity (a film inspired by Firefly).

There has been lots of study - both light-hearted and academic - of Whedon's worlds and the amazing characters that inhabit them.

This latest collection of critical essays delves into the psychology of Joss himself, as well taking an analytical look at his creations.

Written by a variety of authors - all of whom have strings of letters after their names - and with frequent reference to psychological theories and methods, this book had the potential to be very hard-going indeed.

Luckily, it's very readable, and the essays are well-researched and cogent. They cover topics such as neuroscience in Firefly and Angel's relationship with his mother. My personal favourites are the essays that refer to feminism in both Buffy and Whedon's own personality (Joss often refers to himself as a 'radical feminist', just another reason he is one of my personal heroes).

A couple of words of warning, however; this book is definitely not at the 'light' end of the fan-essay-market. Although by no means impenetrable, you really do need to have an interest in psychology as well as in Whedon and his works.

Also, the essays refer widely to the episodes of Buffy, Angel and Firefly, so there are plenty of spoilers.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Serenity Found

Posted by Sarah Painter on February 4, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 31, 2008 2:59 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Tell No Lies by Julie Compton

Tellnolies_2 Julie Compton was a trial attorney for the US Department of Justice. Now she's a writer and stay-at-home mother. Tell No Lies is her first novel and it employs her legal background to great effect.

Jack Hilliard is a 35-year-old assistant DA who loves his wife, Claire, and enjoys his job. He gets on well with his boss and is never asked to trial cases which compromise his moral integrity.

Jack comes across as a stand-up guy, and it takes a skillful author to make the reader believe in his fall from grace. Luckily, Julie Compton is just such a writer.

Earl (Jack's boss) decides to leave and he asks Jack to run for office (to take his place as the DA). On the same day, a flirtation with his lawyer friend, Jenny, gets rather more serious.

Compton takes us through Jack's dilemma - he wants the promotion, but will never get it if he is publically honest about his views on the death penalty. He is against it - under any circumstances.

Jenny, with whom he is increasingly obsessed, convinces him to misprepresent his position to secure the top job. Then, just over half-way through the book, when I was beginning to think 'okay, how is this going to get spun out for another 200 pages?', Jenny is accused of murder.

This is an excellent psychological thriller and an extremely polished debut. I will watch Julie Compton's new career with interest...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Nineteen Minutes by Jodi Picoult

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 31, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 30, 2008 11:08 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Beauty Confidential by Nadine Haobsh

I have to admit, I'm not a big beauty junkie, so I wasn't too excited about Nadine Haobsh's book, Beauty Confidential. I was, however, intrigued by the book's backstory - Nadine was a beauty editor about to start her dream job, when she was outed as the anonymous author of tell-all beauty blog, Jolie in NYC. The dream job offer was retracted ... after Nadine had left her current job. Fortunately, Jolie in NYC's popularity was such that Nadine got a book deal, plus the site is still going strong (although it's no longer anonymous).

Still, the backstory was summed up in a couple of pages and I worried the beauty stuff wouldn't hold my attention. Yep, wrong again. The thing about Beauty Confidential that distinguishes it from the generic beauty pages I flick past every month is Nadine's voice.

She's chatty, funny, down-to-earth and honest. She knows that singing the praises of Nars blush (in Orgasm) isn't going to change the world, but she also knows that if your hair looks good, your day goes better and that's not to be underestimated.

Not only did I fly through this book making mental shopping lists (and vows to spend more than one minute doing my "face"), I've actually referred back to it once or twice since finishing.

From thinking it wasn't a book for me to keeping it on my shelf as an indispensable reference book ... not bad for someone with no interest in the beauty industry. What I'm saying is, if Nadine Haobsh can fire my enthusiasm, she can fire anyone's. And if you're already a beauty junkie? Pull up a chair, pour yourself a drink and enjoy!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Goddess Guide by Gisele Scanlon

Posted by Keris on January 30, 2008 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (18)

January 23, 2008 10:42 AM

BOOK REVIEW: This Is How It Happened by Jo Barrett

Sarah wrote about Jo Barrett's second novel, This Is How It Happened, earlier this month and featured the UK cover, but I read the US edition and I much prefer the US cover, so that's the one I've used here.

This enormously entertaining book begins with Madeline Piatro baking poisoned brownies, which she plans to give (anonymously) to her ex-fiancee, Carlton. Unfortunately, Maddy can't resist trying the brownies herself (well, who could?) and, rather than delivering them to the intended recipient, spends the rest of the day throwing up.

So why does Maddy want Carlton dead?

For many, many reasons which Barrett releases gradually throughout the book and, believe me, by halfway through you'll want to kill him too.

In fact, that was the only reason this book gets a 4 rather than a 5. Carlton was so awful, that I really felt Maddy - intelligent, independent, confident - should have worked out what an utter sleaze he was much, much sooner than she did. Having said that, his sleaziness is entertaining and frequently made me want to reach into the book and throttle him (and give Maddy a "wake up to yourself!" slap too!).

I haven't yet read Jo Barrett's debut, The Men's Guide to the Women's Bathroom, but I'll be rushing to read it now. (The movie rights to that book have been bought by Hugh Jackman and I can totally see this book as a film too. Definitely Matthew McConaughey for Carlton and, despite the fact that Maddy's Italian, I think it could be a good one for a repairing with Kate Hudson.)

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz

Posted by Keris on January 23, 2008 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

January 21, 2008 4:14 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: The Complete Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook by Joshua Piven and David Borgenicht

Worstcasescenario The first Worst-Case scenario handbook was published back in 1999. It had a print run of just 35,000 copies, but went on to become a best-seller and spawn an entire series.

Not only is this edition a lovely strokable square-ish hardback, but it's exceptionally good value, too. It collects more than 100 of the most popular scenarios from the previous handbooks. Plus, the entire contents of all 11 books are included on a fully searchable CD. Bargain!

The advice ranges from the truly useful (like how to drive when the road is icy) to the truly bizarre (how to escape from a sofa bed), while managing to be both funny and informative.

Plus, from a writer's point of view, it makes a handy reference volume. I will now be able to have my character escape from a sinking car, jump from building to building, and land an aeroplane with accuracy.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Damage Control

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 21, 2008 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: The Last to Know by Melissa Hill

Reviewed by Claire Allan

The Last to Know is the sixth book from Irish born writer Melissa Hill who has just been scooped from Irish stable Poolbeg by Hodder - who reportedly paid a whopping six figure sum to publish her seventh book.

Hailed the queen of the big plot twist, Melissa Hill's books offer good, warm hearted writing with a trademark twist at the end which inevitably leaves the reader reeling and wondering how on earth they missed it.

The Last to Know delivers this in spades.

The book tells the story of twenty-something Australian Brooke Reynolds who works as commissioning editor for Sydney-based popular fiction publishers Horizon books.

One morning, she stumbles across a manuscript submission from a would-be author entitled "The Last to Know", a contemporary story about the interconnecting lives and loves of three women based in Dublin. At first, the novel reads like a feel-good, light-hearted tale about life, friendship and the problems modern women face; exactly the kind of book Horizon usually publishes. But as Brooke becomes more and more absorbed in the manuscript, she gradually realises that there is a lot more to this story than meets the eye.

Switching from the 'book' Brooke is reading, to her own thoughts on the novel, The Last To Know keeps the reader guessing to the end. The twist is a corker and left this reader open mouthed in shock. Just when you think Hill can't possibly pull another shock out of the bag it appears there before you and it all sinks in.

My only problem with Hill and her books these days is that I know a twist will come, so I second guess everything she tells us as the book goes along. It's like a weird adult version of Cluedo!

This is one of Hill's finest novels, and I can't wait to see what she has up her sleeve next.

Rating: 4/5

Like this, try The Other Side of the Story by Marian Keyes

Posted by Keris on January 21, 2008 in Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 17, 2008 12:57 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Digging To America by Anne Tyler

Diggingtoamerica Nick Hornby is a big fan of Anne Tyler and if you haven't tried her yet, you really are in for a treat.

Tyler is the queen of characterisation and she writes fluently about relationships, families and small town life.

Digging To America follows the lives of two very different couples - one American, one Iranian-American - who have both decided to adopt Korean babies. They meet at the airport on the day their new daughters arrive.

Despite their wildly different personalities, the families stay in touch, and decide to celebrate their girls' 'Arrival Day' every year with a party.

Tyler examines cultural diversity, what it means to belong and what it means to be American with the same gentle humour, sympathy and insight she applies to family relationships.

As usual with Anne Tyler, there is not a huge amount plot. Instead you are treated to characters that live and breathe, and to deceptively simple prose that is so perfect you want to re-read it straight away.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: The Distance Between Us by Maggie O'Farrell

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 17, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: I Heart Bloomberg by Melody Carlson

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Melody Carlson, author of more than 200 books, returns with a new book, I Heart Bloomberg which will be released in April. Set in Portland, Oregon, the book is the first in the 86 Bloomberg Place series. Carlson takes a look into the lives and friendships of four new roommates. As you’ve probably guessed, the girls live at 86 Bloomberg Place.

Kendall, who received the house as a gift from her grandmother, has decided to take in renters in lieu of getting a job. Who wants to work when you can pay for your shopping sprees by collecting rent? She sets out to find three roommates, going so far as to ask for resumes in her newspaper ad.

After Kendall decides upon her new tenants, the fun really begins. Megan, Lelani and Anna each have their own reasons for moving in to Kendall’s house. And once they’ve moved in none of them is sure the arrangement is gong to work. Can they learn to live together or will Kendall’s big plans fall short?

I Heart Bloomberg is a fun read. It focuses on the friendships of the girls and not so much on any romance. I have a feeling the upcoming books will go more into each of the girls’ romantic relationships. Carlson gives a glimpse into each characters life by writing from one girl’s perspective for each chapter. I enjoyed getting the chance to read from each character’s point of view. It was interesting to see the dynamics develop and to see how things affected each girl’s life.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try These Boots Weren't Made for Walking by Melody Carlson (inspirational) or 31 Dream Street by Lisa Jewell (chick lit)

Posted by Keris on January 17, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 16, 2008 11:23 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Madonna and Me by Nikki Racklin

I wrote about Nikki Racklin's Madonna and Me back in November and I finally got a chance to read it ... and I loved it just as much as I thought I would.

I expected Nikki to be American, but only a couple of pages in I realised she's actually English and, funnily enough, it sort of changed my whole perception of the book.

I was anticipating a kind of "growth" memoir - how I grew up and realised that Madonna is Madonna and I'm me kind of a thing, but instead Madonna and Me is more of a snarky where did it all go wrong? what was I thinking? book.

Nikki began her music career at the same time as Madonna, but where Madonna's career quickly went stratospheric, Nikki's stalled ... for about twenty years. She wasn't unsuccessful - she toured, she made a record, she had a lot of fun - but she never got a record deal and she certainly didn't come close to Madonna's level of fame. Throughout the book, Nikki compares her career with Madonna's and always comes out second best, often with very funny results.

What I loved about this book was that Nikki is under no illusions as to why Madonna made it while she didn't - star quality, charisma, the X factor. Plus she (Nikki, I'm not sure about Madonna) can laugh at herself (since she performed on French TV wearing a man's vest and boxer shorts that she'd decorated herself, that's a good job) and she's very down to earth about her career.

In fact, she's a little bit too self-deprecating at times - she can't have been as poor as she says since she was sought out by more successful musicians and worked as a session singer (which I used to think I wanted to be - despite not being able to sing - and I can remember reading about how hard it is and how good you have to be).

Madonna and Me is much more about Nikki Racklin than it is about Madonna, but that's okay - there are thousands of books about Madonna already and I doubt very many of them are as entertaining as this one.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try But Enough About Me by Jancee Dunn

Posted by Keris on January 16, 2008 in British Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 15, 2008 12:01 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Through Thick and Thin by Alison Pace

I loved Alison Pace's first two novels - If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend and Pug Hill - and I was excited to read this, her third, particularly because of the beautiful cover! (I'm a sucker for a dog on a cover.)

It's the story of Meredith and Stephanie, two sisters with very different lives, but one thing in common: they both want to lose weight. They decide to do it together, both so they can support each other and also because they've been drifting apart and think it might help their relationship.

Meredith lives in New York and works as a restaurant reviewer (which is obviously pretty incompatible with weightloss - particularly The Zone, which is the first diet they try).

Having moved from the city to the New Jersey suburbs, Stephanie has a young daughter and a husband who has completely withdrawn and spends more time at his computer in the basement than he does with his family.

Both women are lonely, but unable to admit it to each other.

Once the dieting begins, they find that, rather than improving their relationship, it actually highlights their differences and swiftly drives them even further apart.

It sounds a bit dark and depressing, but it's not at all. The writing is beautiful (I actually marked a few passages to copy out) and I identified with both Meredith and Stephanie (not just their struggle with weight, but also their sibling relationship).

If you've ever been lonely, every struggled with your weight or you've got a sister (or a dog!), I think you'll love this book.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Conversations With the Fat Girl by Liza Palmer

Posted by Keris on January 15, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 14, 2008 11:28 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Shakespeare by Bill Bryson

I must admit I probably wouldn't have bothered reading yet another book about Shakespeare if it hadn't been written by Bill Bryson. Actually, I definitely wouldn't - I had quite enough Shakespeare at university (although I'd still love to see a really great production of my favourite play, Macbeth). But this biography - part of the Eminent Lives series - is written by Bill Bryson and so that made it a must-read.

As with all Shakespeare biographies, Bryson looks at the Bard's early life, the "missing years" when he began writing the greatest plays in history, his family life, and his death.

Of course, this all has to be put into context so Bryson also takes us on a journey to London and Stratford in the late 16th and early 17th centuries (which I never tire of reading about, since it all sounds so disgusting), the theatre scene and the monarchy.

Finally Bryson takes a gander at all those claims that Shakespeare wasn't Shakespeare at all, was, in fact, anyone from Christopher Marlowe to the Countess of Pembroke. (And points out that none of the claims have any basis in fact.)

All of which I have read about before on more than one occasion, but because Bryson is Bryson, I felt like I was reading much of it for the first time. One of the things I liked about this book was how Bryson makes it clear that barely anything we think we know about Shakespeare is fact. Even having studied him, I didn't know that practically everything I learned is actually conjecture and guesswork.

But the thing I loved the most about this book is the thing I love about all of Bill Bryson's books. And that's that infects everything he writes with his own joy and fascination in the topic. Plus, of course, he's funny. This is not the first book about Shakespeare I've read, but it's the first one that made me laugh.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Life and Times of the Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson (or, if you're studying Shakespeare, The Genius of Shakespeare by Jonathan Bate, which Bryson quotes, but nowhere near as widely as I remember quoting it in my essays).

Posted by Keris on January 14, 2008 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 10, 2008 11:43 AM

Symphony of Secrets by Sharon Hinck

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Sharon Hinck’s upcoming novel, Symphony of Secrets, takes a turn from any of her other writings. It’s filled with Hinck’s funny, charming writing style, but has a bit of mystery added in.

Symphony of Secrets is set in the Twin Cities of Minnesota (Minneapolis/St. Paul) and features quite a few references to places that locals will recognize. The novel centers around flutist Amy Johnson, a single mother who dreams of playing with the symphony. Currently a music teacher, Amy longs for the stage and yet has chosen the safer, steady income of a teacher.

When an opening becomes available, Amy decides to take a chance and audition. However, things aren’t as they should be with the symphony. Amy finds she’ll need to find more than her courage to hold her new career possibility – and the symphony itself – together.

Symphony of Secrets will be release February 1st. Mom-lit and music lovers everywhere will want to make sure to grab a copy and prepare to be entertained.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Restorer by Sharon Hinck

Posted by Keris on January 10, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 8, 2008 11:09 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Reincarnationist by MJ Rose

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

The Reincarnationist is about the tenth book by M. J. Rose and is a thriller set in the present and the past thanks to numerous past life flash backs.

After nearly dying in a terrorist bomb, Josh Ryder is haunted by memories of a past life in Rome. The medical profession cannot explain or solve his new memories and flashbacks and so he turns to the Phoenix Foundation who specialise in past life regression.

A trail of present-day murders seem to link up to his past life memories of being a pagan priest whose dangerous congress with Sabina, one of the Vestal Virgins, poses a transgression so serious that the lovers would face certain death if exposed. Scents of jasmine and sandalwood and images of furtive liaisons and violence descend on Josh at will and become more frequent when the Phoenix Foundation leads him to an archaeological dig at an ancient yet strangely familiar Roman burial site.

The discovery of the existence of a collection of ancient gems called memory stones whose origins trace back to ancient Egypt and India put everyone in danger. The stones’ promise to ‘assist the wearer in reaching his next incarnation’ set the ancient and modern worlds on a collision course and tempts someone so badly that they would murder to get their hands on them.

Although this book is long, it’s very well written and kept me interested throughout. It’s a thriller that’s been thoroughly researched and I felt as though as I was learning about the ancient Roman religion while enjoying the story. She even includes an author’s note at the back to tell you what parts of the story she invented and what parts were from her research.

The whole idea of the existence of memory stones was very original and the mixture of tension of the present day murders and ancient memories of a love long lost kept me turning the pages. I know I shouldn’t mention the end, but it was one of those books that have an arty finish that may satisfy the author, but leaves all us poor readers wondering what the hell happened to everyone. For all I know they all died a second after the book finished as they were still in the middle of the drama.

Overall this was an original thriller mixing modern day with historical plot threads that kept you reading and there was just a dash of the supernatural to add a twist. Just don’t expect a satisfying ending.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown

Posted by Keris on January 8, 2008 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 7, 2008 10:57 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Weetzie Bat by Francesca Lia Block

I've wanted to read Weetzie Bat for ages. That title. And the subtitle: "Dangerous Angels". Who could resist? Plus it's been recommended to me by more than one person with great taste in books. Of course, this also meant that I was worried I'd be disappointed (because that's how I "roll"), but I wasn't.

Weetzie Bat (yes, that's someone's name) is a really cool girl who meets a really cool boy named Dirk. Dirk's gay, but he and Weetzie have a great relationship, which includes hunting for "Ducks" (which is what they call boys) and visiting Dirk's Grandma Fifi.

Before long, they meet their perfect Ducks and make a life together (yes, all four of them). Other things happen (obviously), but I don't want to say because I don't want to spoil the fast fairytale joy of the book.

I read this book in a couple of hours and in what felt like an altered reality. It really does feel like a modern (very modern) fairytale. It's exciting, sweet, original, joyful and it made me want to live in LA (which, when I went there a few years ago, I hated).

This is the kind of book you could reread and notice something new (or get something new out of it) each time. And the fantastic thing is, it's the first in a series of six. Yay.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty

Posted by Keris on January 7, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

January 3, 2008 10:21 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Saving Graces by Patricia Gaffney

Savinggraces_3 This is my first Patricia Gaffney and (yet another) thing I have tried on Jennifer Crusie's recommendation (yes, I can think for myself, thanks for asking).

The Saving Graces is a book about friendship. Four women have enjoyed more than ten years of shared life and love; helping each other in more ways than can be counted.

Isabel has a broken marriage, a grown-up son she hardly sees and is two years into remission from breast cancer. Lee is well off financially but is struggling to fall pregnant. Rudy is beautiful, damaged and married to a controlling man. Emma is funny and feisty and falls for a man she can't have.

Listed like this, the characters sound fairly ordinary and their trials none-too-original but, as with all fiction, the magic is in the telling.

The story is told with the four distinct voices of the women, giving insights into each of their thoughts and personalities.

I bonded with them all; laughing, crying and cheering them on, and felt truly sad when it was time to leave them at the end.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Beautiful Bodies by Laura Shaine Cunningham

Posted by Sarah Painter on January 3, 2008 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: Truffles By the Sea by Julie Carobini

Reviewed by Jill Hart

I liked Julie Carobini’s first novel, Chocolate Beach, but her sophomore release, Truffles By The Sea, greatly surpasses it. I thoroughly enjoyed Carobini’s second book and felt her writing was much stronger throughout. The characters are deeper and yet funnier – a great combination.

Readers met Gaby Flores, in Chocolate Beach, but she takes center stage this time around. The story begins as Gaby moves in to a new apartment (by the sea). She’s had a rough year. She’s lost her apartment in a fire, her business in floundering due to a thieving former employee and that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Gaby isn’t sure how much more she can take.

The downward spiral that is Gaby’s life continues when Gaby is faced with a lawsuit. Top that with the aging of her mother and her new “helpful” neighbors and Gaby is ready to throw in the towel. Gaby is determined to make the best of what she has left, but how much will she have to lose before things turn around? Can she ever get her life back together or will she call it quits – in business and in love?

Truffles By The Sea will be released in February 2008. It’s a great read for a cold winter day – you can curl up with the book, a nice fire and pretend you’re the one by the sea.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Chocolate Beach!

Posted by Keris on January 3, 2008 in American Authors, Inspirational, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 27, 2007 12:42 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Midnight Cactus by Bella Pollen

Midnightcactus_2 Her marriage at crisis-point, Alice Coleman is desperate to spend time away from her developer husband, Robert.

Robert has bought a ghost town in Arizona with plans to create a luxury resort. Alice takes the opportunity to oversee the work as a means to escape and she and her children decamp to the desert town.

At first, I was frustrated at Alice for taking risks with her children's happiness and safety. Alice takes Jack and Emmy with her against their will and seems utterly unprepared for the harsh realities of the town. However, as I got to know Alice, I warmed to her and to her adventurous spirit.

The town is near the border with Mexico and the landscape is harsh. It's an alien way of life, peopled with strange, wild characters like Duval, the builder hired by Alice's husband, who is both mysterious and captivating.

Alongside the story of a family adventure and of Alice's escape from her old life, runs the story of the border. The many Mexican 'illegals' who risk their lives during the dangerous crossing through the desert.

The border narrative criss-crosses the past with the present and Alice is drawn into this dark, dangerous world. Ultimately, Alice must decide on which side of the line she belongs.

The descriptions of Arizona, of the border guards and the struggle between them, the traffickers and the - often desperate - immigrants, is convincingly portrayed.

I was slightly annoyed by the convenient way in which Alice's children seeemed to disappear from the narrative whenever Alice needed to be free of them (most of the second half of the book), but this is a minor quibble in a rip-roaring adventure story with an exciting setting.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Blue Shoes and Happiness by Alexander McCall Smith

Posted by Sarah Painter on December 27, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 26, 2007 10:10 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Creating a Charmed Life by Victoria Moran

I love inspirational self-development books. I keep them by my bed and try to read a chapter in morning and another at night. I say I try, but I usually fail, which is why it's probably taken me a year to read Victoria Moran's Creating a Charmed Life.

That's not a comment on the book - I've read a couple of Moran's other books and found them to be charming, wise and entertaining, and this one, subtitled "Sensible, Spiritual Secrets Every Busy Woman Should Know", is no exception.

Moran defines a "Charmed Life" as one "in which serendipity is commonplace and things go right an extraordinary percentage of the time" and the book is filled with tips and advice on how this can be achieved. Both by practical methods like boosting your vitality, asking for what you want or keeping a journal, and in more spiritual and emotional ways: accepting things as they are and trusting your instincts.

I'm making it sound a bit wet, I know, but it's not at all. Moran illustrates each (very short) chapter with examples from her own life, which she has transformed, and which certainly sounds charmed. In fact, her authorial voice is so strong that I was shocked to find there's no photograph of her anywhere in this book - I can picture her so perfectly!

Creating a Charmed Life is a great quick introduction to various self-development concepts. If you're not sure what works for you, read this and see what resonates. There's even a Further Reading section in the back if you want to look more deeply into specific ideas.

But even if you just followed the advice contained in this small book, I'm confident you'd notice changes.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Behind on the Laundry and Living off Chocolate by Lynette Allen

Posted by Keris on December 26, 2007 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (4)

December 24, 2007 10:20 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Save Karyn by Karyn Bosnak

I read Save Karyn a couple of years ago and I really loved it. I loved it so much, in fact, that when I realised we hadn't reviewed it for Trashionista, I decided to read it again.

In case you don't know the story (and, if not, where've you been?) Karyn Bosnak was a TV producer who moved to New York to find herself and ended up with $20,000 of debt. Basically, she was trying to support a New York lifestyle, but she wasn't yet earning New York money. She thought she had it all under control, but then she lost her job and it all fell apart. But then - after realising that if four rich people gave her $5000 or if twenty people gave her $1000 ... or if 20,000 people gave her $1, she'd be fine - she had the brilliant idea to set up a website asking people to help. The website was called SaveKaryn.com and it became a worldwide phenomenon, getting, eventually, over two million hits and enabling Karyn to pay off her debt in five months.

The book begins with Karyn's move to New York and how she got into so much debt - buying clothes, bags, shoes, cosmetics and using credit to pay for day to day living expenses like food and transport. (This is easily done - when I moved to London I did the same thing. Luckily because it was 1989 and credit wasn't the terrifying behemoth it is now, my Barclaycard limit was only £400. Still took me about five years to pay it off though...) Each chapter begins with her American Express and, later, other credit card, statements and, perhaps because I've been there, I actually found watching the debt rising quite stressful.

Luckily for me (and other nervous nellies), it's not long before Karyn hits rock bottom and then has her big idea and I got to see the debt coming down instead. Karyn's website was a success partly because of her honesty, but also because of her humour. She's very funny (which you'll know if you've read her blog or her first novel, Twenty Times A Lady) and she's also brutally honest. She's not afraid to reveal her frivolous purchases (which most of them were) and she also includes information about other websites that were set up to slag her off, plus the hate mail she received (and continues to receive).

I didn't enjoy Save Karyn quite as much the second time, but that's probably par for the course. Still, I'm in agreement with Marian Keyes whose cover quote says, "Funny, sweet, downright scary... and ultimately so uplifting." It really is. If you've ever been in debt, read this book and identify and if you've just got your first credit card, read this book as a warning!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella or Twenty Times A Lady by Karyn Bosnak

Posted by Keris on December 24, 2007 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 20, 2007 5:01 PM

BOOK REVIEW: it must be love by Rachel Gibson

Itmustbelove Gabrielle Breedlove believes in karma and spirituality. She wants a man who is - first and foremost - enlightened. Problem is, her past dates may have had fantastic auras, but she hasn't wanted to get any closer to their physical bodies.

Detective Joe Shanahan is a man's man. Built like a calendar pin-up; he is macho, bull-headed and thinks meditation is for flakes.

He also thinks that Gabrielle and her business partner, Kevin, are using their shop as a fence for stolen goods. Gabrielle, in an effort to prove their innocence, signs up as a police informant. Joe and Gabrielle are stuck with each other until Joe solves the case...

This is my first Rachel Gibson and I found lots to like.The writing style is snappy, with lots of witty dialogue and one-liners. I liked Gabrielle's character and the descriptions of her shop, Anomaly, her home, friends and quirky family.

Gibson does a great line in funny details - like Joe's Jerry Springer-loving parrot - which lift the story and raise a smile.

However, I do have a nitpick with the romance between Joe and Gabrielle.

Bear in mind, this could just be me, but Joe was a very Alpha hero. Maybe a little too Alpha for my tastes... He did a lot of bossing Gabrielle around (and not just when it was for his job). We were inside his head for a lot of the book and he thought mainly about his 'Mr Happy' and finding a wife who was 'normal' and a good cook.

Fine, you may think, Gabrielle brings out the other, more senstitive side to this man. Well. Not so much. Right up to their (very long, very passionate), um, coming together at the end, Joe laughs at Gabrielle's beliefs, runs hot and cold (getting her half-naked at one point before racing off) and, most unforgivably, laughing at her private passion - her artwork. Ultimately, I didn't believe they truly were twin souls, which rather spoiled the inevitable outcome for me.

Still, this is a funny, engaging read and I wouldn't hesitate to pick up another Rachel Gibson.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Bet Me by Jennifer Crusie

Posted by Sarah Painter on December 20, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 19, 2007 9:36 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Amorous Woman by Donna George Storey

I admit I approached Donna Storey's Amorous Woman with trepidation. For one, there's a woman in her underwear on the cover. And then the back cover describes the book as "the erotic secrets of one woman's sexual awakening and her subsequent passions in Japan". Um. Not one to read on the commute then (luckily I work at home).

The book begins with Lydia - the Amorous Woman herself - living in San Francisco and teaching Japanese culture to American businessmen. Following her return to America from Japan, Lydia vowed never to have sex again "with anyone, man or woman" for the rest of her life. Only a few pages in, I got the impression that would be a promise she'd find difficult to keep.

When she goes out for a drink with two of her students, not only does she find herself attracted to them (inevitably), she also learns that she hasn't been able to hide her true self as well as she thought. They have guessed she has secrets and ask her to tell them. So she does. And the reader learns it all at the same time, of course.

If you ignore the fact that, rather than a couple of hours, it would have taken Lydia days to relate her story, the book is compelling and beautifully written. Despite the fact that Lydia behaves fairly appallingly throughout, she is so open and honest about her wants, needs and weaknesses that I couldn't help but like her.

There isn't much of a plot - basically Lydia goes to Japan and has varied sex with varied people - but there is an emotional core to the book, so it doesn't seem gratuitous. But it is erotic fiction, so it is fairly relentless. It's interesting to read about a woman exploring all aspects of her sexuality (almost) without apology.

The Japanese setting is interesting too - I really felt like I'd got an insight into the country's culture - but I've no idea why there's a Japanese woman on the cover. Lydia is American and there are hardly any Japanese women in the novel (plenty of Japanese men though).

Since it's an erotic novel, you probably want to know whether it is indeed "erotic" (that word's never been the same to me since Waynetta Slob). It is. (Ha! Coy enough for you?)

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try White Tigress by Jade Lee

Posted by Keris on December 19, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 18, 2007 9:22 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Xmas Factor by Annie Sanders

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

The Xmas Factor is the third book by Annie Sanders following Goodbye, Jimmy Choo and Warnings of Gales both of which I thoroughly enjoyed. Annie Sanders (a pen name made up of Annie Ashworth and Meg Sanders) provide real life chick lit which I can relate to as the characters are at similar stages in their lives to me. I picked up The Xmas Factor with high hopes.

Beth was determined that Christmas this year, her first with new husband Jacob, was going to contain the Xmas Factor. Taking time out from preparing three different sorts of mincemeat, she attends the Village Entertainments Group meeting and is coerced into taking on this years Mistletoe Meet.

Thinking a few sausage rolls, drinks and party hats shouldn’t be too hard to rustle up she is alarmed when going through the notes of previous years to find out there were orchestras, lobster and Venetian masks. All organised by her husbands deceased first wife. Feeling threatened by this dead woman there was nothing for it. She had to provide something spectacular both at home, for her husband and his grown up children, and for the Meet.

Meanwhile Carol, a single Mum to Tim, is struggling with a cumbersome magazine title that is threatened with closure, as well as her guilt for not spending enough time with her son. She sees a chocolate box cottage in a magazine and decides this is exactly what she and her son need for their Christmas holidays.

As the shopping days roll by with increasing speed towards Christmas Beth's and Carol's lives are about to collide in one spectacular mess.

I read The Xmas Factor last year when it came out in hardback. With this release of the paperback I thought I’d skim read so I could write the review. It took me longer than I thought as once more I was (willingly) pulled into the lives of Beth, Carol, Tim, Holly and Nick.

In this grown up chick lit story, Annie Sanders demonstrates how Christmas has become a commercialised affair where women shoulder much of the stress in order to provide a perfect Christmas for their family. The book is realistic yet entertaining and Beth is typical of many a woman I know. When talking to them at this time of the year you can almost see the lists of jobs they have swimming around in their heads. My advice? Pick up this book, grab a mince pie (shop bought will do just fine) a hot chocolate, put your feet up and immerse yourself in this non-stressful read. It may be a little cloying at the end. But if we cannot overdo the cloy at this time of year, when can we?

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Tickled Pink by Christina Jones

Posted by Keris on December 18, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 13, 2007 9:28 AM

PREVIEW REVIEW: Mothernight by Sarah Stovell

Mothernightflat1 Mothernight is Sarah Stovell's debut novel and it is startlingly accomplished.

Leila Hartley is a boarder at an exclusive girls' school in Kent. Leila is a genius, but very much alone - she hasn't even been home to see her family for years. Devestatingly clever, she confounds both her teachers and fellow pupils.

When Oliva Rudham arrives at the school, she is roomed with Leila and the two form an intense friendship.

Despite their intimacy, Leila keeps her past a secret from Olivia. Then, Leila's father invites them both back to the family home for the summer and the truth is finally unravelled.

Written in three narrative voices: Leila, Olivia and Kathryn, Leila's stepmother, this novel is intense and absorbing. The relationship between the girls is convincingly portrayed - as is the gothic, suffocating feel of the boarding school.

I really like Stowell's writing style. It allows for dry humour alongside the drama, and never sacrifices story for literary pretension.

In fact, more important than its intelligence, this book feels real. I believed in the grief and obsession and love so thoroughly that the chacters of Katherine, Olivia and Leila stayed with me long after I finished reading.

A page-turner with soul and a debut author to watch with interest...

Mothernight is out in March 2008.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Fingersmith by Sarah Waters

Posted by Sarah Painter on December 13, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 12, 2007 9:53 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Finding Father Christmas by Robin Jones Gunn

Reviewed by Jill Hart

It’s snowing here in Nebraska, so I decided it was time to find a great Christmas book to help get myself into the Christmas spirit. Robin Jones Gunn’s novella Finding Father Christmas did just that.

It’s just a few days before Christmas and Miranda Carson has just arrived in England on a spur of the moment trip. She’s in search of a father she isn’t sure exists and her only clues are a few mementos left from her mother’s belongings. Miranda doesn’t have much to go on, but she knows she’ll regret it if she doesn’t at least attempt to uncover the truth.

When Miranda is befriended by a family that may hold the key to her secrets, she has a difficult decision to make. Should she open up and risk the possibility of forever changing this family she’s grown to love or should she leave and risk never finding the truth?

The book started off a bit slow and I was afraid for a few pages that I wasn’t going to enjoy it. I’m glad I kept reading, though, because only a few chapters in I was hooked. The story is intriguing and the setting is enchanting. And the best part is Gunn has a sequel planned entitled Engaging Father Christmas. So, I know I’ll have a great read for next Christmas, too!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Three Day Rule by Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees

Posted by Keris on December 12, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 6, 2007 12:13 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Under the Rose by Diana Peterfreund

Undertherose Keris loved the first book in this series, Secret Society Girl, so I was excited to read Under the Rose. It's the second book and follows on from Amy Haskell's initiation into the prestigious Rose & Grave society at Eli University.

I like to read books in order, where possible (doesn't everyone?), but I needn't have worried. Peterfreund weaves in the back-story from the first book seamlessly and I never felt lost.

Amy's club is the first in the society's long history to include women and some of the patriarchs aren't too happy about it. The book opens with mysterious threatening emails to each of the female members (the Diggirls) and continues on a rollercoaster ride of intrigue and suspicion.

I loved dipping into a world of Ivy League life and secret society rituals; this book really made a change from my usual reading. I felt exhilarated by Amy's schedule of papers, meetings and romantic liaisons with the delicious George 'Puck' Harrison. In truth, I was compelled to snatch moments with this book until I had devoured the entire thing.

The third book in the series, The Rites of Spring (Break), is scheduled for next summer and I will definitely reach for another slice of this smart, exciting, and very witty world.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard

Posted by Sarah Painter on December 6, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 3, 2007 4:41 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets by Eva Rice

Lostartofkeepingsecrets Eva Rice, daughter of famous lyricist Tim Rice, has penned a charming book in the fine tradition of Nancy Mitford.

Set in the 1950's England, The Lost Art of Keeping Secrets, is the enchanting coming-of-age story of Penelope Wallace.

Penelope lives in a vast but crumbling family home called Milton Magna Hall. Her mother, widowed at a young age, is beautiful and difficult, while her brother, Inigo, is obsessed with Elvis Presley.

Penelope is befriended by the confident and glamorous Charlotte Ferris, and her world widens to encompass Charlotte's Aunt Clare and enigmatic cousin Henry.

I love Eva Rice's writing style - so simple and elegant - and the way she (seemingly) effortlessly evokes the time period.

It is one of those delicious reads that you finish and want to turn over and begin all over again...

Rating: 4/5

Like this: Try: I Capture the Castle by Dodi Smith

Extra! Eva Rice's new book is scheduled for release in April 2008. It's called The Dragonfly Summer and I, for one, can't wait.

Posted by Sarah Painter on December 3, 2007 in Book News, Book related, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

MORE ON MONDAY: My Take by Gary Barlow

I was recently in the position of having to be on a train for a total of ten hours (it was only a five hour journey, but travelling on the weekend doubled the time!). I wanted to take a guaranteed good read. A book that would see me through both the journey and any additional delays. Along with four other books (I wouldn't want to be caught short, would I?), I decided on Gary Barlow's autobiography.

I was (let's face it, still am) a huge Take That fan and, while Gary wasn't my favourite, his speedy fall from grace following the band's split, along with the feud with Robbie, of course, meant I knew this book would be fascinating. And it was. From his childhood in Frodsham, Cheshire, we're quickly launched into Gary's passion for music and his early years entertaining in working men's clubs. While interesting, this part soon got old, but luckily Gary's Take That audition arrived to liven things up.

Gary took his (self-made) demo tape to Nigel Martin-Smith's management company. Nigel loved Gary's songs (his looks, less so) and decided he'd be perfect for the boy band he was forming to compete with New Kids on the Block. Gary was introduced to Robbie, Mark, Jason and Howard and the rest is pop history.

Gary is brutally honest in his treatment of Nigel Martin-Smith and Martin-Smith himself sounds like a fascinating character, both genius and control freak. Gary is also honest about his own control freak tendencies, but he's not quite as hard on himself as he is on Nigel. Of course, he was young when Take That started and he does admit that he gave Robbie a hard time, but he claims he was clueless about it all, which I'm not sure is true. He does, however, include a telling conversation with Jason following the band's break-up, in which Jason told him what a nightmare he was.

The book's been fully updated since the reunion and towards the end, I started to feel very warm towards Gary (no, not like that; I save that for Jason). Gary loves his family, is mad about his wife and kids, and thrilled to be given a second chance at stardom. No, it's not the way he wanted things to go, but he's more than making the best of it. Plus he's traded in his ridiculous Elton-style mansion for a 3-bed semi, bless him. How could you not love that?

It's a gripping read and Gary's also got an entertainingly dry sense of humour, but it's probably for Take That fans only.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Feel by Chris Heath

Posted by Keris on December 3, 2007 in British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 30, 2007 11:12 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Agnes & The Hitman by Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer

A new Jennifer Crusie novel is always a treat, but lately, you don't just get Jennifer Crusie - her last three novels have been collaborations. First Don't Look Down, the first "romantic adventure" written with Bob Mayer, then The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes, written with Eileen Dreyer and Anne Stuart and now another Bob Mayer partnership: Agnes & The Hitman. I've read so much about Agnes & The Hitman on Crusie's blog that I've been desperate to read it almost from the time they started writing it ... I finally got the chance and I wasn't disappointed.

"Cranky" Agnes Crandall is a food writer, who has just had moderate success with a book called Mob Food. She's also recently bought her dream house, in partnership with her fiance, Taylor, but part of the property agreement was that she host a wedding for the previous owner's granddaughter. Unfortunately, Brenda (the previous owner), will get the house back if the wedding doesn't happen and, since that's what she wants, she's going all out to sabotage the wedding.

When a man with a gun turns up in Agnes's kitchen (ostensibly to kidnap her dog), her friend Joey calls a hitman named Shane to come and protect Agnes. But Shane's got problem's of his own. His boss is retiring and wants Shane to take over ... and it appears before long that someone's trying to kill him too.

My head hurts from trying to explain any aspect of this story without giving something away, but it's not so complicated when you read it, honest (okay, it's a little bit complicated, but, like Janet Evanovich's books, if you don't struggle to place everyone and just let it all wash over you instead, it all becomes clear in the end). Plus - and you'll know this if you read Crusie's blog - there are flamingoes.

I liked Agnes & the Hitman even better than Don't Look Down (and I liked Don't Look Down a lot). Agnes now joins the (long) list of my favourite Crusie characters and Shane is sex on legs. The minor characters are charming, hilarious and completely barmy and it's so skillfully done that you can't see the join between Crusie and Mayer's writing (even though you know that if there's any "YEC - Yucky Emotional Crap", it's unlikely to be Bob). Still, the YEC (which is neither yucky nor crap), the guns, bombs, boats, dogs and flamingoes all come together perfectly to create a gripping, romantic and fun read.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Don't Look Down by Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer or any of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books, starting with One for the Money

Posted by Keris on November 30, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (4)

November 28, 2007 11:07 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Coffee At Luke's: An Unauthorized Gilmore Girls Gabfest, edited by Jennifer Crusie

I have mixed feelings about this book since I wanted to have an essay in it and they turned me down - Me! Don't they know who I am? Ahem - but, at the same time, American TV show Gilmore Girls is one of my total obsessions. In fact, I'm watching it in the corner of my screen as I'm writing this ("The Festival of Living Art" from season 4, in case you're interested).

Plus the book is edited by Jennifer Crusie and we do love Ms Crusie here at Trashionista. Like other SmartPop books including This Is Chick Lit, Flirting With Pride & Prejudice and Perfectly Plum (which I do feature in - yay me!), Coffee At Luke's is a collection of essays about Gilmore Girls by a wide range of writers and pop culture experts.

Subjects range from personal relationships (including looks at fabulous secondary characters Kirk and Paris), to parenting (with a spirited defence of Emily Gilmore), to the wonder of Stars Hollow and Gilmore fixations food, books and sex. The last section is on Gilmore Girls and the real world and that, for me, was the least successful. I don't know if I'd just had enough GG at that point (doubtful) or whether I'm just not interested in how the show relates to the real world since I'd rather pretend it's all true.

My favourite essays were Television Without Pity writer Sara Morrison's analysis of how Stars Hollow businesses would fare in the real world. It doesn't sound particularly thrilling, but it's both interesting and really good fun. I was also totally blown away by Gregory Stevenson's Dining With the Gilmores, a jaw-dropping exploration of food as metaphor in the show. I never noticed it before reading this essay, but it makes perfect sense and served to underscore the complete brilliance of Amy Sherman-Palladino's writing.

Clearly only for fans of the show - despite the glossary (Coffee At Luke-isms) at the back, if you hadn't seen Gilmore Girls you would be flummoxed by most of these essays - Coffee At Luke's is interesting, entertaining and made me both want to watch certain episodes again and made me lament the show's cancellation.

Rating: 3/5

Like this? Try Serenity Found edited by Jane Espenson

Posted by Keris on November 28, 2007 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (6)

November 26, 2007 2:41 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Stardust by Neil Gaiman

Before it was a film with Michelle Pfeiffer and Robert De Niro, Stardust was a slim volume by Neil Gaimain.

Gaiman's Stardust is a fairy tale in the grand tradition of fairy tales. In other words, it is full of darkness and danger and love, and is suitable for adults and teenagers, not tots.

Beyond the village of Wall lies Faerie. Every nine years there is a fair, where Faerie sells its wares to the ordinary folk.

Tristin Thorne, the son of a farmer and a witch's servant, is in love with the haughty Victoria Forester. He promises to go into Faerie and bring back a fallen star, in return for her hand.

When Tristin finds the star, she is a beautiful daughter of the moon called Yvaine. The dying Lord of Stormheld threw a gem and accidentally knocked her from the sky, and Yvaine is not too thrilled about it.

Worse still, the Lord's sons are searching for the gem, and an ancient witch is searching for Yvaine; she wants to cut out her heart so that she and her sisters can be young again.

So, you have an everyman hero, a quest, a wicked witch, and a land of magic. Nothing unusual there, you may think, but Gaiman is a master story-teller and his characters are funny and true.

Stardust is a delightful book and one I urge you to seek out and devour; everybody needs magic of this kind in their lives.

Rating: 4/5

Like this only chick lit? Try: Under My Spell by Deborah Wright

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 26, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 23, 2007 12:32 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Gods Behaving Badly by Marie Phillips

I used to read Marie Phillips' blog, Struggling Author (now invitation only), and so I was familiar with Gods Behaving Badly before it even had a publisher. I always thought it sounded great (and I'd read the enthusiastic comments of industry bigwigs) so I was keen to read it.

As an idea, it's what Hollywood calls "high concept" - the gods behaving badly are Greek Gods, living in modern-day London. So we meet Apollo who is using his psychic ability to front a TV show, Aphrodite is working in phone sex, Dionysus runs a nightclub between Euston and Kings Cross and Eros has become a Christian. They all live together in a run-down house with a secret on the top floor.

Into this dysfunctional family comes Alice, an intelligent but timid cleaner who is in love with her best friend, Neil. Neil's in love with Alice too, but can't bring himself to tell her. When they go together to see Apollo's TV show, an unfortunate series of events finds their fate inextricably linked with that of not only the gods, but the entire world...

I enjoyed this book just as much as I thought I would. It's great fun. The Gods are hilariously narcissistic and Phillips fits them into the 21st century seamlessly. It's exciting, funny and features imaginative leaps that made me think of the Harry Potter series (I loved Angel tube station being the portal to the underworld).

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Venus Envy by Shannon McKelden

Posted by Keris on November 23, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (5)

November 22, 2007 3:15 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Sushi for One? by Camy Tang

Reviewed by Jill Hart

I knew this was going to be a great book when the crazy grandmother showed up in chapter one. Camy Tang’s first book, Sushi For One?, is a great start to a budding career. We don’t see a whole lot of Asian chick-lit, so this book, while maintaining what we love about chick-lit, gives a taste of something new and different.

The main character, Lex, is on the verge of becoming the oldest single female cousin in her family. With her older cousin, Mariko, getting married, Lex knows that her family will soon be on her case about getting married. It starts sooner than she thinks, though, when her grandmother corners her even before Mariko’s wedding and lets Lex know that she better have a date – a real date – for the wedding….or else.

Hilarity ensues with Lex making a fool out of herself in a number of ways and places. The lengthy list of qualifications her dates must meet keeps her far from finding anyone to fit the bill. She may just have to settle for what’s available – if she can convince him. Or is it Lex that needs convincing – to trust new people and open her heart to new possibilities?

Tang delivers a fresh outlook on the single life and gives her readers a glimpse of life in the Asian community. This first book in the Sushi Series will leave readers giggling and looking forward to book two.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Wedding Date by Liz Young

Posted by Keris on November 22, 2007 in Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 19, 2007 11:39 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Justice for Jill by Scott Lomax

This is a difficult book to review since I feel so strongly about the case in question.

For those too young to remember 1999 or for anyone outside the UK who might not know of the case, Jill Dando was a popular British TV presenter who was shot dead on her front doorstep in broad daylight one morning in 1999. The public were shocked and horrified and a huge manhunt took place to find the murderer.

The hunt was hindered by the fact that Jill was incredibly popular and beloved and the police had no witnesses, murder weapon or motive. In 2001, a local man named Barry George was arrested and charged with Dando's murder. It was announced last week that Barry George is to face a retrial after his conviction was quashed by the Court of Appeal.

The reason it's difficult for me to review this book is that, having been horrified and fascinated by the case at the time, I never believed for a minute that George was guilty. The evidence was flimsy at best and it seemed to me to be a case of the police, under immense public and media pressure to solve the case, finding a local oddball and thinking he would do.

Justice for Jill isn't simply a history of the case, its author, Scott Lomax, also firmly believes that George is innocent and sets out the evidence fairly and in minute detail. It's a fascinating, compelling and deeply upsetting book.

It's not a sensationalist "true crime" style book and, as such, can get a bit dense, but it's not a book that you'd read for entertainment, obviously. If you're interested in the case, in law, in miscarriages of justice, it's a must-read. But expect to have your faith in the crimiinal justice system shaken.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Keris on November 19, 2007 in British Authors, Crime / Mystery, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (7)

November 15, 2007 11:53 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Hungry by Allen Zadoff

As you know, I was attracted to this book because of the fabulous cover and, as it turns out, you can't judge a book by the cover, because Hungry isn't at all the book I was expecting. The back cover describes it as "laugh-out-loud funny" as do many of the reviews on Amazon US.

I found it sad, wise, inspiring and interesting, but not funny (I think I might have smiled once or twice...).

Allen Zadoff was overweight from a young age and was, quite literally, killing himself with food. At 350lbs and just before a McDonalds binge, he decided to get some help. Now this is not a diet book - Zadoff explains what worked for him (cutting out trigger foods, sticking rigidly to three meals a day and therapy), but you won't find eating plans or exercises.

What it is is a memoir of an addiction just as damaging as drug addiction or alcoholism, but not yet recognised as such by society. I'm making it sound quite dry, I know - and while it's certainly not hilarious, it is entertaining. Zadoff is a brutally honest and engaging writer and I flew through the book (stopping at one point to eat an Aero ... sigh).

Zadoff also says Hungry isn't a self-help book, but I imagine it could be of enormous help to someone with an eating disorder or even to a self-diagnosed "problem eater" like myself.

Rating: 4/5

Posted by Keris on November 15, 2007 in American Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 12, 2007 2:20 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Sick Puppy by Carl Hiaasen

Sickpuppy When I'm in the mood for something smart and satirical and insanely funny, I know just the man to turn to... Florida journalist Carl Hiaasen.

In honour of his latest novel - Nature Girl - being released in paperback, I thought I would revisit one of my old favourites, Sick Puppy.

Eco-warrior Twilly Spree spots someone in a Range Rover dropping litter and decides to teach him a lesson. His target turns out to be none other than Palmer Stoat - one of Florida's most powerful political fixers, and a man who's crimes against nature are far worse than litter-bugging...

Twilly steals Palmer Stoat's dog and hooks up with Skink, an infamous ex-governer who lives in the wild and eats roadkill.

Plotted with crazy ingenuity, Sick Puppy defies summarisation. Safe to say, however, it keeps you laughing while you turn the pages.

It's quintessential Hiaasen; the situation is exagerated and the humour a little twisted, but justice prevails. Highly recommended.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: Lucky You by Carl Hiaasen (it's my second favourite).

Related posts: More on Monday

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 12, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 7, 2007 11:18 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Froth on the Cappuccino by Maeve Haran

I love books like Maeve Haran's Froth on the Cappuccino. Subtitled "How small pleasures can save your life" it's one of those books about how all the joys of life are right there in front of us and how we so often take this for granted.

Things like the titular froth on the cappuccino ("Can there be anything more delicious than sprinkling fresh chocolate onto your cappucciino and eating the froth, slowly and sensuously, as befits its amazing wondrousness?"), freshly baked bread, a cool pillow, watching the dawn come up, painting your toenails and tons more.

Yes, it's basically just short thoughts on each topic, but I found it compulsive reading.

Granted, at times Haran's tone can be a bit twee and I found myself thinking "Yeah, yeah, baking with children is delightful, blah blah," but that's probably partly due to my own cynicism and partly because I read the book in great chunks rather than dipping in and out of it. Oh and the chapter on "Scrunchy hair ties" seemed a bit out of date. "So this humble yet irreplaceable device is destined for a long and happy future" - tell that to Carrie Bradshaw!

But they're very small complaints. As a book to keep by the bed (or the loo) and dip in and out of, it would be both charming and inspiring. It would also make a good Christmas gift for someone who's finding life a bit joyless.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Joy Diet by Martha Beck

Posted by Keris on November 7, 2007 in British Authors, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 6, 2007 10:43 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Carpool Confidential by Jessica Benson

From the moment I heard about Carpool Confidential I was dying to read it (for reasons that will become clear...). Also Meg Cabot highly recommended it on her blog recently and we always listen to Meg!

After 11 years of marriage, Cassie and Rick have an apparently idyllic life that includes two gorgeous kids, a Brooklyn apartment with breathtaking views of Manhattan and a holiday home in Nantucket. But then out of the blue, Rick announces that he's unhappy with the way his life has turned out and he's leaving Cassie to go and find himself ... and work on a Barry Manilow retrospective. I love Barry Manilow - and not even ironically - so this was right up my alley.

Cassie is flabbergasted since Rick has always been dependable, even a bit boring, and has never shown the slightest interest in any sort of Easy Listening music. But off Rick goes, without telling Cassie exactly where he's going, how long he'll be away or whether he's coming back. He doesn't even give her a contact number, saying instead that he'll get in touch with her.

At first Cassie's in total denial, but soon she realises she has to take care of herself, which is when she learns not only that Rick has been planning this escapade for quite some time, but also that he's left her and their sons financially insecure and may have been less than honest about a number of other aspects of his life.

Before giving it all up to have kids, Cassie was a journalist, and an old friend and contact suggests she blog about her experiences for a New York magazine. The blog becomes extremely popular very quickly, but while Cassie finds writing about what she's going through cathartic, she also has the additional worry that her fellow PTA moms will work out the real identity of the blog's author.

Cassie is witty and charming and I warmed to her immediately. Rick is an utter sleaze and I wanted to wring his neck. Plus the supporting characters - Cassie's friends, mother-in-law, niece and sons - are great fun and admirably avoid cliche. The other PTA moms *are* rather cliched, but all the more fun for that somehow.

Plus the chapter headings are Barry Manilow song titles. What's not to love?

There was one aspect of the plot that I absolutely didn't buy, but this is Jessica Benson's first chick lit novel* so I'll forgive her. I can't wait to see what she writes next. Highly recommended.

* Benson has previously written historical romances. I've never read any, but when I do I'll start with one of Benson's.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Secret Confessions of the Applewood PTA by Ellen Meister

Posted by Keris on November 6, 2007 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 5, 2007 1:35 PM

Book Review: Lean Mean Thirteen by Janet Evanovich

Leanmeanthirteen_3 I'm a huge fan of Janet Evanovich, so it pains me to say this... The Stephanie Plum series may be running out of steam.

Your enjoyment of Lean Mean Thirteen will be enhanced by having read a couple of the earlier books, so that you know the full background to Stephanie's ex-husband Dickie Orr. However, if, like me, you have devoured all twelve of the previous novels, you may find Evanovich's latest a little... Samey.

The plot is enticing enough - Dickie Orr has gone missing and Stephanie is the Trenton police's prime suspect - and there is the usual assortment of hilarious rogues. This time, Stephanie is trying to apprehend a taxidermist with a penchant for exploding animals and a grave-robber. Plus, she has Morelli trying to keep her safe (fat chance, Joe) and her nemesis Joyce Bernhardt following her every move.

I think the main problem for me was one of character development. There wasn't any. Stephanie still loses her skips by going to their front door while they escape out the back, Lula still adds (more) slapstick, and absolutely nothing changes in the Ranger/Morelli situation.

As the characters felt more like parodies of themselves, I found I wasn't as emotionally-involved as usual. I struggled to believe that Stephanie was a true suspect in Dickie's disappearance and hardly batted an eyelid at the nut job with a flame thrower. Which doesn't seem right.

However, Evanovich is still a very funny writer and Lean Mean Thirteen had me laughing out loud more than once. I'm giving it a four out of five, as I would hate to put anyone off trying this series, but long-time readers consider yourselves warned...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try: One for the Money by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Sarah Painter on November 5, 2007 in Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

MORE ON MONDAY: Imagine This by Sade Adeniran

Reviewed by Belinda Whitehead

Imagine This is a beautifully written coming of age tale about Lola Ogunwole, a young girl whose father relocates her and her elder brother Adebola to their native Nigeria from England without so much as an explanation for his actions. Sent to live in a remote village with her aunt, and surrounded by a whole host of relatives she has never met before, Lola struggles to settle into her new life in Idogun.

Adebola, meanwhile, is himself suffering at the hands of his cruel uncle Joseph, and through their correspondence the two children dream of running away together to a better life.

Unable to come to terms with her abandonment, Lola starts acting up in school as a ploy to force her father to come and get her, but succeeds only in getting herself into more trouble with her relatives and provoking her father’s anger. When things eventually come to a head, Lola finds that even when it seems life can’t get any worse, it does.

This book does more than just tell a story, it takes the reader on a journey of discovery, provoking empathy towards Lola as she endures the many hurdles life throws her way, coming to terms with life, love and, the hardest thing of all, loss.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Power of One by Bryce Courtenay

Posted by Keris on November 5, 2007 in Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 2, 2007 6:32 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz

I loved the premise of Lisa Lutz's debut novel, The Spellman files: a family of private investigators who just can't resist investigating each other.

Isabel Spellman has been working for the family business since the age of 14, but lately she's started to realise that having your parents tailing you and undertaking surveillance in order to find out who you're dating is, well, not normal.

Isabel's older brother, David, got out while the going was good, but her younger sister, Rae, is not only obsessed with the business, she's got even less sense of personal privacy than their parents.

When Isabel meets Daniel and decides she's going to leave the business, her parents give her one last job - a ancient missing person case that was closed years ago. Her parents see it as a wild goose chase to keep Isabel busy long enough that she decides not to leave after all. But Isabel finds plenty of clues that had been overlooked in the original investigation and the case begins to take over her life. Until, that is, her sister goes missing...

I was hooked by this book from the first page. Isabel's voice is distinctive, dry and very funny. The idea is original and inventive and so are the secondary characters - Rae is great: infuriating and impressive; Isabel's parents are calmly demented and her uncle Ray is believably tragic. The only character that didn't work for me was Daniel, who I never felt I really got to know.

Before writing this novel, Lisa Lutz wrote a screenplay and The Spellman Files is very filmic. I was mentally casting it all the way through and I would love it to be turned into a movie. I do know there's going to be a sequel and, frankly, I can't wait.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try One for the Money by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Keris on November 2, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (3)

November 1, 2007 11:21 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Rolling by Neta Jackson

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Neta Jackson and the Yada Yadas are at it again. In The Yada Yada Prayer Group Gets Rolling, Jodi Baxter and the rest of the gang are back for a whole new batch of adventure. A lot has changed since the Yada Yada Prayer Group was formed after being pushed together during a women’s conference a year and half prior. Each Yada has their own struggles, but they come together for support, encouragement and most importantly, prayer.

When a fire destroys the a building that is near and dear to many of them, the Yada Yada’s and the Uptown-New Morning Church step in to aid the residents. When Avis learns that her daughter has contracted a serious disease, the Yada Yada’s rally around her. As Ruth and Ben struggle with their newborn twins, and as Yo-Yo begins to withdraw from the group, they strive to help out in any way possible.

Still, many questions remain. How will Jodi put together an important performance in less than two weeks time? Will the lottery money change Chanda? Will Florida’s son end up in a juvenile detention center?

Neta Jackson’s Yada Yada books have sold more than 600,000 copies worldwide.

This sixth book in this award-winning series is one of the best yet. Every reader will relate to one (or more) of the Yadas. The characters have a hard to achieve depth, especially if you’ve read the other books in the series and know each character’s background. The book is an exciting read. Every time you turn a page, something new happens.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs

Posted by Keris on November 1, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 31, 2007 12:31 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Rex and the City by Lee Harrington

I've never owned a dog, but I do love reading about people who do, particularly if they write as well as Lee Harrington.

Rex and the City began as a column for The Bark magazine (which author Alison Pace has also written for) but it doesn't read like a series of columns, it's firmly a memoir and is as much about Harrington's relationship with her boyfriend, Ted, as it is about her relationship with her dog. Plus the "and the City" of the title isn't just an awful pun, New York - in particular Harrington's Lower East Side neighbourhood - is practially another character in the book.

Ted and Lee adopt Rex (who was, in reality, named Wallace) from a shelter primarily because of his beauty, but they soon believe they've taken on more they can chew. It's clear that Rex was badly mistreated, but the shelter won't give them any details. Rex is antisocial, frightened, untrusting and occasionally violent. But Lee and Ted decide not to give up on him and, eventually, he learns to trust them and they, in turn, learn to trust each other.

Like Marley & Me, Rex and the City is the story of a family being changed by a dog, but it's not as sweet as John Grogan's book. I suppose I'd describe it as less endearing and more "urban", which seems fair given the title. Harrington writes beautifully and the book is full of wisdom about relationships, both human and canine, but she never claims to have all the answers (in fact, I believe there's a second volume on the way, so she couldn't, could she).

I found Rex and the City totally engrossing and it made me both more determined to adopt a dog and more aware of the issues that involves.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Marley & Me by John Grogan

Posted by Keris on October 31, 2007 in American Authors, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 22, 2007 12:28 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Blood is the New Black by Valerie Stivers

I was very excited when I reported the forthcoming debut novel from Valerie Stivers in book news back in September – vampires and fashion are just my thing – so imagine how excited I was when Blood is the New Black plopped through my letterbox weeks before publication.

The story revolves around Kate McGraw and her internship at Tasty magazine. Kate’s a medical student with an eye for fashion – she can diagnose a man and tell you where his suit was tailored at 50 paces. Her mother, who seems to have disappeared off the face of the earth, was a fashion designer, and although Kate has tried to break free of the fashion world her aunt introduces her to Tasty editor, Lillian Hall, who offers her a job at Tasty.

Kate soon faces the wrath of her fellow interns when she becomes Lillian’s favourite, but that doesn’t worry her as much as the murders that are going on around her. And why are some of her Tasty colleagues so odd? What’s the strange red drink they all have and why do they sleep in their offices? And why do they all start work so late – surely they can’t all be up all night?

I love the new trend of supernatural chick lit and this one really hits the mark – this was a read in one sitting book. It turns the world of fashion on hits head, but is still believable. If you’ve ever wondered how people in fashion manage to stay so thin maybe this is the real reason.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

Posted by Nicola pedley on October 22, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Fashion-Lit, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (2)

MORE ON MONDAY: The Affair of the Bloodstained Egg Cosy by James Anderson

Using the time honoured tradition of judging a book by its cover, I picked up The Affair of the Bloodstained Egg Cosy by James Anderson last week and couldn’t put it down. I’m not usually a fan of mysteries but this has got English aristocracy, an American millionaire, spies and foreign dignitaries galore and is a rip-roaring read.

Set in the 1930s, in a world where people go down to the country for weekend house parties, this is the story of a stolen diamond necklace and secret talks between Britain and an un-named foreign country before the Second World War. Throw in a couple of murders, a rare pair of guns and a local detective and you’ve got a fast paced plot that surprises with every twist and turn.

This is the kind of book to take on a long journey – you’ll find the time just flies by.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Good Husband of Zebra Drive by Alexander McCall Smith

Posted by Nicola pedley on October 22, 2007 in British Authors, Crime / Mystery, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 19, 2007 12:12 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Crow Lake by Mary Lawson

I added Mary Lawson's Crow Lake to my Amazon wishlist *years* ago on, if memory serves, Jennifer Weiner's recommendation (via her blog, we're not actually friends ... except in my imagination). Despite that, I never actually bought it because it didn't really sound like my kind of book. Too depressing. Too (old) Oprah. But then on holiday I was stuck for something to read and Crow Lake had been left behind by someone else so I picked it up and ... lost about two days.

Set in Northern Ontario, Canada, it's the story of the Morrison family: Kate, who narrates the story, her older brothers Matt and Luke and their younger sister, Bo. At the beginning of the book their parents are killed in a car accident and when Kate reacts incredibly badly to the idea of the siblings being separated, the oldest brother, Luke, decides to give up his chance of teacher training college and take care of the family himself.

The story of Kate's childhood is mixed with the story of Kate as an adult. Apparently repressed and regretful, Kate is an academic, living far away from her brothers and sister and unable to get over the events of their childhood. Not just the loss of their parents, but the loss of the future in academia her brilliant brother Matt (yes, Matt, not Luke) had to give up, for reasons we don't learn until almost the very end of the book.

I found Crow Lake utterly compelling. While not exactly depressing, it is dreadfully sad, full of regrets and missed opportunities, but also somehow life-affirming and encouraging. The characters of Bo and Matt are both wonderful, plus Lawson writes evocatively about the lakes of Northern Ontario. I know the characters and events will stay with me for a long time.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Afloat by Jennifer McCartney

Posted by Keris on October 19, 2007 in Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 18, 2007 11:43 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Hazardous Duty by Christy Barritt

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Hazardous Duty will take you places you’ve never been – and you may never want to be. Christy Barritt’s inspirational novel enters the life of a chick with a unique career. Gabby St. Claire is a crime scene cleaner. Her days are filled with grime and blood, but the job takes her one step closer to her goal of becoming a crime scene investigator.

A typical day turns into a nightmare when Gabby uncovers a murder weapon while cleaning. When her best, an only, employee is arrested, Gabby knows she has to help prove him innocent.

How will Gabby convince the surly detective to take her seriously? And what’s with her new neighbor – is he friend or foe? Gabby must solve this mystery or her life will never be the same.

Christy Barritt is the author of eight books and contributor to a number of magazines and websites. Barritt brings a new twist to chick-lit with her unusual crime scene cleaning heroine. The writing is smart, funny and captivating with a dose of emotion to round it off nicely.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Neat Vodka by Anna Blundy

Posted by Keris on October 18, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 17, 2007 11:21 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Inside the Mind of Gideon Rayburn

Inside the Mind of Gideon Rayburn has a really interesting premise. Gideon Rayburn starts a prestigious boarding school, but he's not alone. Well, as far as he knows he is, but we know better, because the book is narrated by a girl. A girl who is living in Gideon's head.

I know. It sounds far-fetched - well, it *is* far-fetched, obviously - but it's only weird for the first couple of chapters, then you come to accept it and it's fine. In fact, it's very entertaining to have a girl's take on a boy's thoughts and behaviour. If only it could have happened to me when I was 16 ... or maybe not.

Gideon's two roommates set him a challenge to lose his virginity to a nice girl named Molly, but of course, Gideon, because he's a boy, has set his own sights on a not quite so nice (but far hotter) girl named Pilar.

At first I thought this book was going to be fairly typical - the roommates would set Gideon up and humiliate him and it would all be terrible and I would find it very stressful, but it wasn't like that at all. Gideon is a lovely character (the girl inside his head falls in love with him within the first few chapters) and the events of the book are much more realistic and less painful than I imagined.

It was actually issued as an adult novel, but it's YA through and through (apart from one instance of a very rude word). Judging by the colours on the back of the book, the publishers were presumably trying to cash in on the success of Curtis Sittenfeld's Prep.

I haven't read Prep, but I really enjoyed Inside the Mind of Gideon Rayburn.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Anatomy of a Boyfriend by Daria Snadowsky

Posted by Keris on October 17, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

October 16, 2007 2:35 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold

Almostmoon "When all is said and done, killing my mother came easily."

Nothing like an eye-popping opening line to draw a reader into a story, and man did that one draw me in! The Almost Moon is a very different book from Alice Sebold's last novel, The Lovely Bones, but I predict it will make as much of a stir. While Lovely Bones traded on our fears about child murder, abduction and paedophilia, The Almost Moon tackles the difficulties of aging, divorce, and parents with dementia. It's a more mature book, with a less sympathetic narrator, but it's no less compelling. When this was offered to me for review back in July, I didn't care that it wouldn't be out until October, I grabbed it and dug straight in.

The opening chapters were pacy, tense and very dramatic, with an almost palpable tension. But then... things tailed off a little as Helen, our narrator (and mother-killer) reflected on her past. The story slowed down and I was in danger of becoming bored. Thankfully, the pace picked up again, and I was drawn into this dark (yet somehow not depressing) story.

It's all set in a twenty-four hour period, but with flashbacks to Helen's childhood which explain her relationship with her mother, her father's death, and the strange life her mother has been leading for many years. We also start to realise that Helen's moment of madness when she kills her mother is not isolated: she's been slowly unravelling for some time. Although this isn't a murder mystery, there is a sense of mystery and uncertainty: what will happen to Helen, will she cope, will she maybe even get away with what she's done? She somehow becomes a sympathetic character and Sebold's writing about people's private motivations and strange thought processes is brilliantly evocative - a real class act. I am now convinced that Alice Sebold will be writing hit books for a long time to come.

However... the ending of the book still disappointed me a touch, as I felt the author pulled her punches. But maybe she's just more forgiving and humane than I am! Either way, this book is hard to forget.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try We Need to Talk about Kevin by Lionel Shriver.

**PS: I've just seen what looks to be the final, UK cover - here. Hmm. What do you think?**

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 16, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 12, 2007 10:38 AM

BOOK REVIEW: All I Want is You by Martina Reilly

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

As a Martina Reilly newbie I didn't know what to expect of All I Want is You. On first impressions the book didn't really show much promise. I thought both the title and the cover were a bit 'blah'. I t wasn't with great enthusiasm that I started to read.

Poppy Shannon is married to a successful architect in Dublin. She spends her days having facials, expensive haircuts, getting her nails done and shopping for designer clothes. Hmm. Was I going to enjoy this? I wasn't sure. As I read though I started to enjoy Reilly's fabulously snappy writing style. So I continued.

Poppy's life is turned upside down when her husband's business partner runs off leaving them with massive debts. They have to sell their palatial home and downsize. She has to stop shopping and her hair is to be cut in the local, cheaper salon. In the meantime her son's behaviour causes concern at his new school, her businessman father retires leaving him bored, her mother in law has to come and live with them and her own mother is busy with her charities. Pete, Poppy's husband, withdraws from her, his pride not allowing him to accept financial and emotional help. And he struggles to admit his son's behaviour might be a problem.

Worst still, Poppy has to take a job. In the 'everything's a Euro' shop.

I found Poppy difficult to like initially. Her shallowness, naivety (which almost bordered on stupidity) and her reluctance to stop spending made her somewhat irritating.

But as Poppy started to sort her life out, she blossomed into a strong, independent woman. I found myself rooting for her, admiring the way she dealt with problems and with people.

Yup. I was hooked.

The rich woman losing her money and turning her life around has been done before. You might guess how things will turn out after reading just chapter one. But it doesn't matter. How she gets there is what makes this book so readable and unputdownable.

In an interview with Trashionista earlier this year Martina said that her main aim when writing a book was "to create great memorable characters, emotional, funny, interesting scenes and a cracking page-turner of a plot". She has done this. Exactly. Along with brilliant dialogue, fascinating contemporary issues, and characters that you really care about.

The scenes between Poppy and her mother in law are particularly memorable. The dialogue is quick witted, straight talking, funny and in one particular scene extremely emotional.

It is lovely when you find a fantastic read most unexpectedly. Hidden behind the 'blah' book cover is one gem of a book. Martina – you have a new fan.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Motherland by Maria Beaumont

Posted by Keris on October 12, 2007 in Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 11, 2007 1:06 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Still Summer by Jacquelyn Mitchard

I've been aware of Jacquelyn Mitchard for years - surely everyone's heard of The Deep End of the Ocean, yes? - but I hadn't actually read any of her books until her latest, Still Summer. I'll definitely be reading more.

Still Summer is the story of four women - Tracy, Olivia and Holly, who have been best friends since high school, and Tracy's daughter Cammie - who arrange to take a yachting trip together, following the death of Olivia's rich Italian husband.

At first, of course, it's idyllic - at least the sailing is, Olivia is actually a bit of a pain and the women aren't sure their friendship will last, but then, following a series of more than unfortunate events, the women end up alone on the yacht (I hope it's a yacht; I don't know anything about sailing) and in fear of their lives.

I've read that Mitchard wanted to write a book in which the women have to save themselves (rather than waiting for someone else to save them), and she's certainly done that. It's an exciting and tense read and I didn't want to put it down.

What was less successful, for me, was the character of Olivia (too evil - although I did want to reach into the book and wring her scrawny neck) and some of the dialogue, which was pretty stilted. Having said that, I find it staggering to believe that Tracy, Holly and Cammie don't actually exist. They were utterly real to me as I was reading and remain so even a couple of weeks after finishing the book.

If you haven't read any Jacquelyn Mitchard, you don't know what you've been missing.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult

Posted by Keris on October 11, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (3)

October 8, 2007 10:07 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Perfect Alibis by Jane Wenham-Jones

You know we don’t like to do things properly at Trashionista, which is why I’m reviewing Jane Wenham-Jones’ second book third (we’ve already done Raising the Roof, her first book and Wannabe a Writer?, her fourth).

Stephanie is a bored housewife. She’s given so much of herself to her family that she needs something back, something for herself, something that can make her Stephanie again. So she decides to take a job. When she gets a job at PAs she think it will be ideal, after all what could be more interesting than being a personal assistant? As it turns out things get a lot more interesting when she finds out that PAs stands for Perfect Alibis, a company that provides alibis to people having extra-marital affairs.

Throw Stephanie’s first love, Troy, into the mix and life suddenly becomes very frenetic for Stephanie. Should she leave her husband for Troy? Should she be helping people cover up affairs? And what exactly are her new friends up to?

I bought this book when I went to see Jane Wenham-Jones speaking about her writing (and it’s a signed copy!) and she’s a very funny woman, and that humour comes across brilliantly in her writing. Okay, a book about covering up affairs may not be moral, but it’s funny and that’s what I’m looking for when I read a book.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Secret Confessions of the Applewood PTA by Ellen Meister

Posted by Nicola pedley on October 8, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 1, 2007 12:13 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Innocence by Kathleen Tessaro

I loved Kathleen Tessaro’s first novel, Elegance, and haven’t been disappointed by this, her second, Innocence.

Evie Garlick leaves smalltown Ohio at the age of eighteen to follow her dream. She travels across the Atlantic to London, to study acting and soon finds herself best friends with fellow American actress wannabes Robbie and Imogene.

The three girls live together, study together and get drunk together until a man comes into Evie’s world and pulls her friendships apart.

Jack is the struggling rock musician who captures Evie’s heart, making her forget about her boyfriend and plans back in America, and when Evie’s career threatens to take her away from him he comes up with a radical plan and her lifestyle changes again.

Fast forward 15 years and Evie is a single mother teaching drama and poetry to mature students – a far cry from her childhood dreams of acting.

What has bought her to this? Is it her responsibilities as a single mother, or is she just too scared to grab life and live it as she should?

This is a beautiful story told in real time and flash back of a woman who wasted her 20s and finally finds the true meaning of her life in her 30s.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Pillow Talk by Freya North

Posted by Nicola pedley on October 1, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

MORE ON MONDAY: How to Become a Famous Writer Before You're Dead by Ariel Gore

I'd never heard of Ariel Gore, but as soon as I saw the title of this book I knew I had to read it and I'm glad I'm did.

Subtitled "Your words in print and your name in lights", Ariel Gore's book is a collection of short essays, interviews with famous authors (including Marc Acito, Haruki Murakami, Ursula K Le Guin and Dave Eggers) and exercises (set by the famous authors), all designed to help you push your writing career to the next level.

It's a very easy read - most chapters are only a couple of pages long - but it packs in tons of information. From giving yourself "Lit Star Makeover" ("Develop a Superhero Alter Ego", "Choose a Good Vice") to mastering your craft, self-publishing and self-promoting ("Learn to Talk", "Stand out on the Corner in a Gorilla Mask and a Pink Tutu") there is something for you whatever stage you're at in the writing-publishing process.

It's going on my reference shelf and, if you're a writer, it should also be on yours.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try No Plot? No Problem! by Chris Baty

Posted by Keris on October 1, 2007 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 27, 2007 10:45 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Five Things I Can't Live Without by Holly Shumas

If you're a regular Trashionista reader, you'll know how excited I was to read Holly Shumas's debut novel, Five Things I Can't Live Without, and I wasn't disappointed.

It's the story of Nora Bishop who is the very definition of a woman who thinks too much. She calls it her "meta-life" but it basically means she can't live in the moment because she's always second-guessing, questioning and analysing everything. Can't think why that appealed to me so much!

Realising her heart's not in her job, Nora quits, but doesn't know what she really wants to do. When a friend asks for her help rewriting her internet dating profile, Nora thinks she may have found her niche.

Each chapter begins with the dating profile of various characters (some more than once and including Nora herself) and it's a surprisingly successful device. I loved seeing how Nora developed through her profile alone, but there's more to the book than that. Holly Shumas is a marriage and family therapist and it shows, Five Things I Can't Do Without is warm, wise and, dare I say it, emotionally intelligent.

Between Nora, her friends and her clients, various relationship issues are raised and examined. Like life, not all are resolved, but they're interesting and thought-provoking.

I think I might be making this book sound more serious than it is. It's a lot more serious than I expected it to be, but it's still a fun read that I didn't want to put down. I can't wait to see what Holly Shumas does next.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Pug Hill by Alison Pace

Posted by Keris on September 27, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 26, 2007 9:51 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Perfectly Plum: unauthorized essays on the life, loves, and other disasters of Stephanie Plum, Trenton bounty hunter edited by Leah Wilson

Reviewed by Sarah Painter

Personally, I can’t get enough of Janet Evanovich’s Stephanie Plum bounty hunter novels, so I was most excited to get my hands on Perfectly Plum. It’s an (unauthorised) essay collection all about Stephanie Plum and her adventures in Trenton, New Jersey. Okay, so I probably would have been more excited about a new Plum novel, but this is a close second. Plus, it includes offerings from novelists such as Shanna Swendson and JA Konrath and - eep - Trashionista’s very own Keris Stainton.

The essays range from pure fun to the more thoughtful, and cover topics like The Stephanie Plum Diet, Exploding the Myth of the Jersey Girl and Noir in the Plum novels.

I particularly enjoyed the investigation into Stephanie’s car insurance options and Karen Kendall’s description of Ranger as Hairy Godmother.

Naturally, there is a whole section devoted to the sticky question of Stephanie’s love life: should she choose Joe Morelli or Ranger? Or stick with her pet hamster, Rex? He’s a cheap date, after all…

If you’re a fan (and you’d really have to be to ‘get’ this collection), this is a great book to dip in and out of – preferably with a supply of Tastykakes Butterscotch Krimpets on the side.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Keris on September 26, 2007 in Crime / Mystery, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 25, 2007 9:17 AM

BOOK REVIEWS: Does Snogging Count as Exercise? and Does Glitter Count as Camouflage? by Helen Salter

Reviewed by Luisa Plaja of Chicklish

Holly Stockwell is fourteen and has never been snogged, which is clearly bordering on abnormal according to the magazines she and her best friend Poppy read. She hates exercise in all its forms but has had the misfortune to be born into a sports-mad family. She also fancies Poppy's brother Luke, but Poppy seems to be dumping her for the gorgeous and rich Claudia. What's a girl to do?

In the sequel, Does Glitter Count as Camouflage?, I hope I won't be giving too much away when I say that... Holly may think she has the boy she wants now, but first she has to go on holiday with Poppy. And anything could happen, so she'd better start taking relationship advice from anyone who'll give it. Meanwhile, Poppy seems to think it's a good idea to change her looks to get her man. And, through all the chaos, why is there now an exercise bike in Holly's bedroom?

I can't recommend these two books enough as gorgeous, laugh-out-loud-funny reads. Anyone who's ever sat through a French lesson at school will especially adore the French jokes - there are plenty in both books. The characters feel like people you know and love (or love-to-hate, in the case of Claudia), and the plots keep you reading, enjoying and occasionally cringeing for England. Utterly teen and brilliant fun.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try "... Startled by His Furry Shorts!" by Louise Rennison

Posted by Keris on September 25, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 24, 2007 10:48 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Career Helium by David Thompson

I’ve got a self-development book for you this week (surprise, surprise!), but one with a difference. Where most books of this type are a list of things to do and achieve, Career Helium by David Thompson is told in story form. It’s the story of Matt, an employee unfairly, in his opinion, passed over for promotion in favour of Tim. Matt has better sales figures, and has been at the company longer so why didn’t he get the promotion? What has Tim got that he hasn’t? Enter the mysterious Edward and Career Helium…

The author, David Thompson, has been the teambuilding expert on Big Brother’s Little Brother, and has been working in career development for over 15 years. By using the unusual format of a fictional tale in a career development book he brings you his vast knowledge in an easily digestible form. The story neatly applies the stages of Career Helium to Matt’s real life situation, and throughout the book key phrases and teachings are given space of their own, so you know exactly what you should be focused on.

I don’t want to give the secret of Career Helium away, but every piece of advice makes perfect sense, and makes you wonder *why aren’t I doing that?* If you’re after promotion and career advancement, but know you’re missing something, you might just find it in Career Helium.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try P.U.S.H. for success by Saira Khan

Posted by Nicola pedley on September 24, 2007 in British Authors, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Accidentally Engaged by Mary Carter

Accidentally Engaged is Mary Carter’s second novel, and it stars Clair Ivars, a psychic and talented tarot card reader. Unfortunately her talents don’t go as far as being able to read her own future so it comes as a complete surprise when she finds herself engaged to wealthy vodka manufacturer Jack Heron, especially as she’s attracted to his business partner, Mike.

But who is Mike? And is Jack’s house really haunted? And is the family matriarch really as loopy as she seems?

I’m a big fan of supernatural chick lit and this one rang all the right bells for me. There’s a dreamlike quality to the whole story (which is neatly explained at the end) and all the characters are believable and likeable.

There are secrets galore in the Heron household and Mary Carter handles it all very nicely. This is another winner from Little Black Dress.

Rating: 4/5

Like This? Try Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye by Victoria Laurie

Posted by Nicola pedley on September 24, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 21, 2007 11:41 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Hot Fudge Sundae Blues by Bev Marshall

Reviewed by Melanie Allyn

I’ve never read anything by Bev Marshall, but while browsing in the library I noticed that she has written two other books, Walking Through Shadows and Right As Rain. My slightly embarrassing admission is that I picked Hot Fudge Sundae Blues because I believe in food therapy (sparingly, of course). Especially all things fudge.

Hot Fudge Sundae Blues is the story of 13-year-old Layla Jay Andrews, who falsely seeks salvation from the preacher at church. Her dual motivation was to please her very religious grandma and catch the eye of Jehu Albright (the teenage neighborhood version of Steve McQueen). Shortly after her pious display, Wallace Ebert, a young, attractive new-to-town preacher walks into her life. He immediately falls in love with Layla Jay’s gorgeous, untamed and borderline alcoholic mama, Frieda. Wallace and Frieda abruptly marry and settle into a small blue house in town.

When she was a toddler, Layla Jay’s dad died in a motorcycle accident. Growing up, she sensed his absence from her life and clung to forged memories of him and imagined what he was like. So when Wallace marries Frieda, Layla Jay is excited to have a substitute father to fill the void in her life. But very quickly, Layla Jay begins to suspect that Wallace is not what he claims to be. She senses something dark behind the kind and gentle preacher façade he puts forth in church. But try explaining that to the comfortably smitten, oft-drunk Frieda...

Soon Layla Jay's world begins to crumble: Her step-father's true nature comes to light, her only friend betrays her, and the unsuspecting love of her life seems further and further from reach. But when tragedy strikes (twice), Layla Jay learns that it takes more than just a large helping of her mother's therapeutic desserts (hot fudge sundaes from Tastee-Freez) to heal and move forward. She eventually finds solace in forgiveness, faith and love.

I really liked this book. Bev Marshall is a great writer so I found it easy to read chapter after chapter (it was like devouring my very own sundae). Layla Jay faces some very hard decisions, but she handles them rather maturely. In fact, she is often more of a parent than her mother. Throughout the book she makes very adult decisions, but manages to preserve a sweet innocence that rings true with the reader (e.g. praying for breasts). Bev Marshall made her little heroine strong and capable of handling the intricacies and hardships of growing up, and even though I didn’t always agree with her decisions, I kept wishing I’d had a friend like Layla Jay when I was 13-years-old.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd

Posted by Keris on September 21, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 20, 2007 1:54 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Trophy Wives Club by Kristin Billerbeck

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Kristin Billerbeck, who has been credited with being one of the first authors to bring chick-lit to the inspirational market, is back with a brand-new title, The Trophy Wives Club. While the title may make it sound like a book for women who want to snag millionaires (or millionaires who want to snag trophy wives), the book has much more depth to it than that.

So, how can a book about trophy wives deliver any type of inspiration? The key is finding out where the title really comes from. Haley Cutler sets out to do just that. Haley is a typical trophy wife – married to a successful Hollywood producer and used to a lifestyle that includes great clothes, great hair and expensive shoes. The problem? Her Prince Charming has just walked out on her.

After seven years of living a pampered, care-free lifestyle Haley must figure out how to make it on her own. She quickly realizes that she doesn't have many marketable job skills and that the $700 Giuseppe Zanotti's she's drooling over will pay for eleven days in the not-so-high-class motel she's staying in. She also has her husband's lawyer, the remarkably handsome, but incredibly self-righteous, Hamilton Lowe to deal with. What's a girl to do?

Then she hears about a group called "The Trophy Wives Club." This sounds like the perfect place to learn how to make her ex-husband squirm and get the type of settlement she deserves. However, when she attends her first meeting, she's surprised by the attitudes of the other women in the group. They've all been through rough divorces and yet there's something peaceful about them. How can that be?

Billerbeck, author of What a Girl Wants, writes another stand-out novel for inspirational chick-lit fans. The book covers the painful topics of separation, divorce, bitterness and forgiveness. Readers of Billerbeck's popular Ashley Stockingdale series will be pleasantly surprised by this very different, yet very poignant novel.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Truth About Ruby Valentine by Alison Bond

Posted by Keris on September 20, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 18, 2007 10:39 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Golden by Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Jennifer Lynn Barnes was 19 when she wrote Golden. 19! Do you know what I was doing when I was 19? Following Matt Goss around London. Shut up. Anyway, Barnes' time was much better spent (obviously) since Golden is a treat.

Like the other women in her family, Felicity "Lissy" James has "the Sight" - she can see people's auras. Her mother, Katie, can find lost children. Or at least she usually can. When she is unable to find 4-year-old Cory Park until after his murder, the James family are hounded out of town and return to Katie's Oklahoma home town.

Lissy is greeted by three bitchy girls who tell her that her new school is split into "Goldens" and "Nons". They make it quite clear that Lissy is likely to be a Non and when, on Lissy's first day, she both throws up and passes out, her position is assured.

But the vomiting and fainting was a reaction to Lissy's first glimpse of her new Maths teacher, Mr Kissler. As a child, Lissy gave the name "Garn" to a really bad aura, an aura that signifies a person has done, or is doing, something really really bad. She's never before seen an entirely Garn aura until Mr Kissler's so, with the help of her younger sister, Lexie and Audra and Dylan (two friendly fellow Nons), Lissy has to work out just what Mr Kissler has done and what she can do about it.

The first three quarters of Golden are entertaining, but not earth-shattering - I wasn't excited to get back to it, but I enjoyed it as I read - but then the last quarter is absolutely fantastic. I thought I knew what was going to happen, but I was so wrong. If Barnes can come up with something as inventive and thrilling as the end of this book aged 19, Lord only knows what she'll do next.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard

Posted by Keris on September 18, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (6)

September 17, 2007 11:25 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Rise and Fall of the Queen of Suburbia by Sarah May

This is the first book I’ve read by Sarah May, but what a book to start with! The Rise and Fall of the Queen of Suburbia is a deep dark comedy set in 1983 in a world where dinner parties start with cottage cheese and pineapple and end with frozen cheesecake from the Ice Man. A world where 15-year-old Jessica lives in fear of the bomb and Linda Palmer is losing it with a capital L.

Linda, The Queen of Suburbia, lives on slimshakes and anti-depressants. She cleans her house before the cleaner arrives and her marriage is falling apart before her eyes. Her dinner party is out of control before it even begins - the fish is dead, the guests are congregating in the kitchen and the Nieman’s bring their son along, but there’s only salmon for six. And nobody even comments on the gazpacho soup.

But the other residents of Pollards Close have problems of their own, and pretty soon relationships are falling apart while others are tested to their limit and then strengthened because of it.

And then comes the gruesome and completely unexpected finale…

I really enjoyed this book - the characters were wonderful, and in some cases wonderfully hideous, and it ended with a real bang. As the cast is large I liked the way the chapters were numbered according the character’s house number, which, along with a list of characters at the start of the book, kept the book easy to follow.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy by Polly Williams

Posted by Nicola pedley on September 17, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 11, 2007 5:03 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Growing Yams in London by Sophia Acheampong

Reviewed by Luisa Plaja of Chicklish

Makeeda, a Londoner of Ghanaian descent, has great friends and a fun life, even if her parents are a bit strict and she's sometimes jealous of her cousin Tanisha. But when she meets and falls for fit DJ Nelson and Tanisha encourages her not to tell her parents, things begin to change for Makeeda.

She starts to see Nelson behind her parents' back and without telling Nelson that's what she's doing. Meanwhile she's also heading for trouble at school, ignoring her teacher's advice with the direction she takes in a school project - even though it means researching Ghanaian history and learning potentially life-changing facts. But possibly worst of all, it looks like Makeeda's friendship with Bharti may never be the same again. Makeeda's in for a tough time...

I found this book a complete delight from start to finish. Makeeda is a sweet, lovable character (though she does make mistakes), and her actions were always completely believable. When she starts to get in touch with her roots, it provides lots of laughs as well as being fascinating. I loved her good friends, too, especially Bharti. Her little sister was priceless, and her not-so-good friends (Laura and Afua) were three-dimensional and in some ways not that bad, although you could completely see Makeeda's point of view about them. The best thing about this book for me was the description of everyday life and love in Northwest London. A brilliantly entertaining read.

Enter the giveaway on Chicklish to win your own copy!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Phosphorescence by Raphaella Barker

Posted by Keris on September 11, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 10, 2007 11:13 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Mama Gena's School of Womanly Arts by Regina Thomashauer

Mama Gena's School of Womanly Arts is subtitled Using the Power of Pleasure to Have Your Way With the World. It was recommended to me, otherwise it's probably not a book I would have picked up, since it sounds like a sex manual ... but it's not. No, really, it's not.

Instead it's actually a very well-rounded guide to having more fun and pleasure in all areas of your life (and, yes, while that does include your sex life, the book's got much more to offer). With chapters on flirting, beauty and bitchiness - plus one on "owning and operating men" - Mama Gena's School of Womanly Arts is strangely old-fashioned while, at the same time, being distinctly modern.

Mama Gena uses examples from her own life and from those of the "Sister Goddesses" who have taken her course to illustrate how focussing on your own pleasure can bring you everything you want. Plus there are exercises at the end of each chapter that range from examining your lady parts (!) to keeping a scrapbook of all the fabulous things you'd like in your life.

Mae West is quoted more than once and it's that kind of witty yet sensual idea of womanhood that the book espouses. It works for me, but I appreciate that it might offend some women, while others might find it a bit old hat (Mae West's been dead for almost 30 years, after all)!

I enjoyed this book. There exercises are great both for adding pleasure to your life and learning more about yourself ... so that you can add more pleasure to your life. And I'm certainly not going to complain about that.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Goddess Guide by Gisele Scanlon

Posted by Keris on September 10, 2007 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 6, 2007 11:48 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Catch A Rising Star by Tracey Bateman

Reviewed by Jill Hart

Tabby Brockman is washed up. Well, that is until she learns that there may be a chance of reviving her daytime soap opera role. The thing is, she’s become a Christian and her friends aren’t sure she can withstand the temptations of the celebrity lifestyle. In the midst of her confusion she encounters an annoying wanna-be boyfriend, crazy co-stars, and even family trauma.

Catch a Rising Star is a fun read that captures the reader's attention and keeps you turning pages. Readers will laugh out loud at some of the characters' antics and yet there is a serious side to the story that tugs at the heartstrings.

It’s not often (maybe even never) that you find a Christian fiction novel about a soap star. Most Christians disdain soap operas and yet they are a long-standing part of our culture. The main character struggles to be a light for Christ in a world that mocks her faith. Readers will find Bateman’s treatment of the topic realistic, hilarious and inspiring.

I enjoyed this book thoroughly. I personally do not watch soaps, mostly because as a child I was forced to watch them with my grandmother. It was fun to revisit the world of soaps and to see it through the eyes of a Christian struggling to be a light in the darkness.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Hollywood Car Wash by Lori Culwell

Posted by Keris on September 6, 2007 in American Authors, Inspirational, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 5, 2007 11:49 AM

PREVIEW REVIEW: Laid Bare by Gail Porter

Gailp Out tomorrow, this book just manages to squeeze in as a Preview Review... (and yes, I am leaving, I just have a few loose ends to tie up first!)

Most people (in the UK at least) know Gail Porter. Or know of her, anyway. Short, bouncy, blonde Scottish TV presenter who married a rock star, had his baby, went through a bitter divorce and lost all her hair from the stress. After all that (not to mention an overdose that nearly killed her, years of self-harm, anorexia and undiagnosed bipolar disease and a difficult relationship with her dad) it was probably inevitable that Gail write a book about her experiences. Laid Bare is that book, and there's the inevitable reference to hair loss in the title, although it could have been a lot worse...

I was fairly interested to read this but really hoping that it wouldn't be a self-indulgent wallow. Because, to be honest, if I'd been through a lot of this stuff, it probably would have been!

Luckily, Gail is a charming and charismatic narrator as she tells the story of her first fascination with the entertainment business (an obsession with the first Star Wars film) right up to... well, I won't give it away, but the book ends on a poignant note.

She writes about her days at school (she was a super-swot, who became a black belt at Karate - and so was never really picked on!) and college (in Watford, which she didn't find very exciting...) and her early jobs in TV, including a lot of time as a runner/general dogsbody. What comes across is a strong work ethic, a lot of determination and the ability to bounce back from any rejection. I was impressed. After getting to know TV production inside and out, Gail realised that her dream job was to be in front of the camera, so she made a show reel dressed as Wonder Woman (of course) and started auditioning. Soon (after a few ups and downs along the way) she was presenting Scottish kids' TV, then national kids' TV in London, then iconic programmes like Top of the Pops, where she met her husband, Dan Hipgrave of (former) band Toploader.

When she writes about her relationship with Dan, it's clear that their marriage was a whirlwind mistake, and that there's no love lost between them! She is however, grateful to him for their daughter Honey (although her post-birth pain, which lasted for months, made me seriously wince). It seems that Gail has never done things the easy way, even when she sometimes could have done. She seems to have barreled her way through life without thinking too much about her actions. When she's diagnosed with bipolar and a thyroid problem, and admits to her anorexia and self-harm, it comes as almost as much of a relief to the reader as it must have to Gail herself. However, contrary to my fears, she doesn't wallow. In fact, she sometimes could do with wallowing a bit more, and with asking for help - as it doesn't come across that she's fully dealt with her problems and I was a bit disappointed with that although maybe that's more about my own control freakery than the book itself! It's also a shame that the book ends on the aforementioned poignant note, but it is also a sweet ending, and a realistic one.

I can't see any mention of a ghostwriter anywhere, so am choosing to believe Gail wrote this herself. In which case, she has talent as a writer, as the reader definitely becomes involved in her experiences. I found this a quick read, but not a dumb one, and I learned a thing or two about someone who's been in the news a lot.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try But Enough About Me by Jancee Dunn.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 5, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 4, 2007 11:57 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Quality of Life Report by Meghan Daum

Reviewed by Jessica Denmark of Jessica, Etcetera

I had never heard of Meghan Daum prior to reading The Quality of Life Report; in fact I found the book at a local book trade store. But after some Google research, it turns out she has a collection of essays (currently on my TBR list) called My Misspent Youth and writes cultural and social commentary for the Los Angeles Times.

Daum and her book are both seemingly more rocker-chick than chick-lit and when most authors take their readers to New York City, Daum takes an unusual route to a very unlikely place.

The Quality of Life Report’s narrator, NYC lifestyle reporter Lucinda Trout, travels to the Midwest to produce a research piece on crystal-meth addicted housewives, leaving behind a minuscule apartment and a DOA love life, both in exasperation and in search of what she deems The Quality of Life Report.

Her series of Little House on the Prairie meets Sex and the City-esque productions prove not only popular to her fellow New Yorkers but surprise Lucinda as well. Never maudlin and ultimately-determined, she finds herself living in a barn with a local river-bathing, bearded, eccentric would-be mountain man and his children and, gasp, liking it.

With impeccable comic timing and incorrigible social criticism, The Quality of Life Report pokes fun without harm and allows every reader to jump in the U-haul with Lucinda, and, in short, convinces both her viewers and the book’s readers to “drink the kool-aid.”

When it comes to light that the town’s unique population has their own set of problems and issues, just like those in the city she left behind, Lucinda is not only able to see them for who they are, but also looks within, and is startled by her discover. The yankee smarty-pants gets a hard and fast lesson in loving, leaving and farm animals and all learn a lesson(s), if anything, about ourselves while having a good laugh as well and cheering for our heroine at the end.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Fortune Quilt by Lani Diane Rich

Posted by Keris on September 4, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 3, 2007 11:27 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Self-preservation Society by Kate Harrison

Week before last I read Caprice Crane's Forget About It - the story of doormat Jordan Landau who, following an accident, takes control of her life. Last week I read The Self-Preservation Society: the story of Jo Morgan, a self-confessed "scaredycat" who, following an accident, takes control of her life. The similarities don't end there - both women's accidents are bike-related, both suffer head injuries and - even more spookily - both their fathers have given them Jelly Bean-related nicknames. Both books were written and published around the same time, so I'm not suggesting either one copied the other, more that great minds think alike!

All the above similarities aside, The Self-Preservation Society is very different to Forget About It. Jo has a very safe life. Along with her boyfriend, she works in Accident Prevention, is hyper-aware of risk and has basically arranged every aspect of her life around the avoidance of it. Of course, you can't live any sort of life and avoid risk completely, but Jo only learns that when she's knocked down on her way to work (she'd forgotten her reflective jacket).

The accident causes Jo to suffer flashbacks - perfect recollections of incidents in her childhood. Like many of us brought up in the 80s, Jo was petrified at the prospect of nuclear war. Following the guidelines in the government issued Protect & Survive leaflet, Jo started stockpiling food and planning for a potentially terrible future. But when her younger brother got sick - and her parents focus turned to him - Jo's present wasn't so great either. And then there were those strange women at nearby Greenham Common...

Along with the flashbacks, Jo's a lot moodier and less easy-going than she used to be. At first Jo and her family and friends blame the change in her behaviour on her head injury, but with the help of fellow patient Frisky (an 85-year-old former fighter pilot) and his foxy, but mysterious grandson Luke, Jo starts to understand that a life without risk isn't necessarily one worth living.

I really enjoyed The Self-Preservation Society. Jo's flashbacks (actually my favourite parts of the book since they were so evocative of my own scaredycat childhood ... not that I'm a narcissist or anything) are cleverly woven into the story and are never jarring. Frisky and Luke are great fun, but also surprisingly deep. In fact, many of the characters reveal hidden depths and keep you guessing and thinking right to the end.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Forget About It by Caprice Crane (obviously!)

Posted by Keris on September 3, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 30, 2007 3:54 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Pillow Talk by Freya North

Reviewed by Helen Redfern

I should start this review by admitting I’m a big fan of Freya North. Her books have seen me through my years as a career girl, helping me to rediscover the art of reading for pleasure after three dry years at university. They were also there for me when I met my lovely boyfriend whom, as the years passed, became my husband. I could therefore completely identify with the boy meets girl formula of a Freya North novel.

At some point during the last ten years, like me, Freya’s books have grown up.

That’s not to say they are no longer a fun, sexy and quirky read. They haven’t become staid or boring (as, one hopes, I haven’t either!). But it is no longer just about the sexiness of boy meeting girl. She also explores some deeper issues, and nowhere is this more apparent than with her latest novel ‘Pillow Talk’.

Pillow Talk is about a boy and a girl, childhood (almost) sweethearts, who lose touch, then one day find themselves standing next to each other in an ice-cream shop. The girl, Petra Flint, is a jeweller who also happens to sleepwalk. The boy, Arlo Savidge, is a music teacher at a private school, who has insomnia. We follow them on their inevitable journey towards being together.

Yes the classic Freya North formula is there. Unfortunately this means there are parts where I could guess the plot and I got slightly frustrated with Freya for being so predictable.

North, however, hasn’t finished yet. Just as her readers have matured, so has her writing. As the story reveals our hero and heroine’s secrets she gives us more than the usual ‘girl meets boy, have misunderstanding, get back together and live happily ever after’ scenario. Once they are together we uncover a past that neither of them can forget, and which is the real reason behind their sleep problems.

We are also invited into the fascinating world of jewellery design, discovering, with vivid and enthusiastic descriptions, tanzanite (which Freya describes with the same relish she used about sculpture in her earlier novels) and also into the life of a music teacher who has an eclectic taste in music and whom I would have liked to have teaching me at school.

In terms of ranking this novel I am torn. I feel I should mark Pillow Talk down for being the tiniest bit predictable but at the same time this is part of Freya’s charm – the formula I have enjoyed reading again and again over the years. Pillow Talk is a fabulously sassy, grown up, chick lit read, but my exasperation over the slight predictability is only allowing me a high 4 out of 5.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Vince & Joy by Lisa Jewell

Posted by Keris on August 30, 2007 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 28, 2007 5:05 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Lover Revealed by JR Ward

Reviewed by Angela Richardson

This book is the forth in the Black Dagger Brotherhood series, where JR Ward has created a world where a war is raging between vampires and their slayers. However, a secret band of brothers exists as defenders of their race.

Lover Revealed concentrates on Butch O’Neal – a hard-living ex-homicide cop, who is the only human ever to be allowed in the inner circle of the Black Dagger Brotherhood. But he wants to go even deeper into the vampire world and take part in the turf wars with the lessers. He’s got nothing to lose. He’s in love with a beautiful aristocratic vampire who’s way out of his league. If he can’t have Marissa, then at least he can fight side by side with the Brothers. When fate curses him with everything he wants he falls prey to the darkest force in the war. Left for dead, the Brotherhood calls on Marissa to bring him back. But even her love may not be enough to save him…

Starting this series on the fourth book was not the greatest way to enter into Ward’s writing. I spent most of the first half confused and trying to make sense of all the different storylines. The glossary at the beginning for all the words Ward has invented filled me with dread that I would never understand this book. However, once I ignored the glossary and managed to get a handle on all the characters, this book came to life.

The on/off love story between Butch and Marissa is intelligently written and leaves you guessing until the end. It has a high action plot that is intense and immerses you in Ward’s world. My only criticism is the writer’s love of mentioning any up to date gadget/designer that she can think of. It sometimes made this book sound more like an advertisement distracting from the great writing.

Overall this was an excellent read, but I would think that starting at the beginning of the series would increase the enjoyment and lessen any confusion.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Bitten by Kelley Armstrong

Posted by Keris on August 28, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 23, 2007 9:59 AM

BOOK REVIEW: My Fat, Mad Teenage Diary by Rae Earl

When I first heard about this book (it was excerpted in The Guardian's weekend magazine) I thought, Oh, big deal, I've got a fat, mad teenage diary and no-one's interested in publishing that! And then I read it. And it's great.

Rae is a normal 17-year-old girl. She lives in Leicester and attends public school (on a scholarship). She's overweight and insecure and obsessed with the things 17-year-olds were obsessed with at the end of the eighties: the charts, Nuclear war, raves, prawn cocktail crisps...

She has problems with her mother, with the boy(s) she likes, a bitchy best-friend ... you know, the usual teenage angst stuff. She's also recently spent time in a psychiatric hospital, but that's really glossed over in this book - it's less about serious mental illness and more about the random mental trauma we all go through as a teenager.

This is apparently Rae Earl's actual diary. If that's true - and after reading it I do believe it is - then she has my utmost admiration. The contents of this diary are so similar to the contents of my own teen diary, that I was often hot with embarrassment while reading it.

It's compulsive reading and highly entertaining. If you were a teenager in the late eighties there is so much in here you'll identify with. Unless, of course, you were popular, thin and not mad as a teenager, in which case, get away from me.

Oh and the reason my diary hasn't been published? Because I destroyed it in the early nineties. The shame.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try But Enough About Me by Jancee Dunn

Can I just point out that the cover says "If Adrian Mole had a sister..." but Adrian Mole did have a sister (Rosie). And, yes, I know I'm a dork.

Posted by Keris on August 23, 2007 in British Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 20, 2007 8:48 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Mere Anarchy by Woody Allen

Mere I suspect unlike most Woody Allen fans, I first appreciated the great director's humour through his short stories rather than his excellent films (Manhattan, Annie Hall, Play it Again Sam, Hannah and Her Sisters, Manhattan Murder Mystery et al.)

His last original collection of fiction was released in 1983 and so Mere Anarchy, a slim volume which still squeezes in 18 stories, was well overdue. But does he still have the golden touch?

I have to be honest, at first I wasn't sure. I'd forgotten that Woody's wordplay can sometimes be dazzling to the point of baffling, and wished often that I knew where my dictionary was...

But once I'd got into the swing of things, I found his way with words entertaining and witty, although wry smile-funny rather than split-your-seams hilarious. The subjects these stories tackle are mostly rather ridiculous - from a man kidnapped because he looks like a famous film star to a someone who loses money after investing in a musical about the adjustable shower head. Other subjects, like nannies selling stories on their employers and the difficulty of getting a child into the right New York pre-school, are bang up to date (even if chick lit did there get first...)

One of my favourite stories was The Rejection (the pre-school one) , which made me laugh out loud. Lines like, "If Mischa could be denied this, there was no meaning in life or all of existence " effectively puncture the bubble of NYC pre-school hysteria. Strung Out, a contemplation on physics and the laws of the universe was very funny too: "I awoke on Friday, and because the universe is expanding it took me longer than usual to find my robe." But Above The Law, Below the Box Springs really made me howl with laughter - it's about some thieves who cut the tags off mattresses and it's just so silly and funny, a great cheerer-upper. (Yes, that is a word...) I'm just not sure why some of the stronger stories in the collection are towards the end of the book.

Although I read the collection straight through like a novel, as I needed to finish it for MoM, I think it would be better savoured in small morsels - the writing is so rich in wordplay it can be better appreciated in small doses and it's a shame to rush through it.

I don't know either non-Woody Allen fans would enjoy the collection or not - you have to have a certain sense of humour. In fact, I might recommend one of his earlier collections first for 'beginners' (Without Feathers contains my fave ever Allen story, The Whore of Mensa.)

But for anyone with a sense of the silly, a great vocabulary and a penchant for Woody Allen-esque humour, this is a great new book. It's nothing new and exciting, just more of the same after a long break - but that's still saying quite a lot.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 20, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Celebrity Authors, Modern Fiction, More On Monday, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 16, 2007 2:06 PM

BOOK REVIEW: No! I Don't Want to Join a Bookclub by Virgina Ironside

Better known as an agony aunt, Virginia Ironside is also an experienced journalist and now a novelist, too. No! I Don't Want to Join a Bookclub is about Marie Sharp, who's single and just about to turn sixty and has decided to start a diary, Bridget Jones-style.

Kind of.

Unlike many people of her generation, Marie is not trying to recapture her youth, doesn't want to take evening classes, expand her mind, keep active, or god forbid, join a book club. What she wants to do is cover up her bingo wings, drink a lot of wine and enjoy being old. But being old doesn't mean doing nothing - in fact Marie has a pretty jam-packed time even though she has retired. She becomes a granny (or, as she inexplicably writes it, grannie) for the first time (something she talks about with such joy, I was incredibly moved and almost wanted to be one myself - although at 28 I think I might be a little young...) Her first love also comes back into her life, one of her oldest friends becomes very ill, and Marie has a young French lodger to keep a motherly eye on.

Although sometimes a little too cynical and curmudgeonly for my tastes, Marie is a very well-drawn and likeable character and I found this a fast and enjoyable read. It was refreshing to read about an older heroine and especially one who is both single and happy about it and happy with her age.

However, I'm not sure I'd want to be like Marie when I'm older - I don't see what's so wrong with salsa dancing and bungee jumping post-retirement if you fancy it, and sometimes Marie sounds more like 80 than 60!

But don't be put off if your age is nearer 20 - this is a good read for any age. I'd just love for a book club to pick it...

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Plotting for Beginners by Sue Hepworth and Jane Linfoot.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 16, 2007 in British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 14, 2007 5:10 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Men! by Isabel Losada

Men Isabel Losada has written non-fiction books on the inner lives of nuns, finding enlightenment and saving the world. (As well as Reasons to be Glad). Her latest release is a little more down-to-earth: ‘Men!’ she exclaims. ‘Where the **** are they?’

She believes there is a national shortage of interesting, available men over the age of 35. For the purposes of the book, her definition of an interesting man is: ‘One who when you meet them you’d like to have dinner with them and, having had dinner with them you are glad that you had dinner with them and would like to see them again.’ Available means emotionally available as well as single (and married men who tell women they’re separated don’t count!) The interesting, available man should also have travelled, be independent and free from addictions and other emotional problems. Is such a man so elusive? The evidence of her own love life and those of her friends suggests he is, so Losada embarks on a nine-month quest to find out where all the interesting and available men are, and to net one for herself in the process, if she can...

To find out where the eligible men are hiding, Losada visits some all-male environments on our behalf. She attends a Harley Davidson ‘ride out’ and a weekend plumbing course before spending two weeks working as the only woman on a building site. Dispiritingly, she finds that men are often quite literally hiding from women as they prefer to spend leisure time in the company of other men. The motorbike club is mostly a chance for men to drink copiously and tell sexist and homophobic jokes. The plumbing course is not set up for women although Losada copes admirably well and the building site workers treat her as one of them (after some initiation rituals) but their views on life and love are enlightening in all the wrong ways.

So Losada vows to try more new things. She attends lectures all over London, learns to drive a motorbike and goes on a diving holiday in Egypt. She also falls for two men, neither of whom is technically ‘available’… She’s endearingly open and frank about her romantic missteps, admitting that getting over one of these men is so hard that she wouldn’t be interested in a new relationship anyway – so her experiment is flawed on a personal level. At the end of the quest, Losada confirms her hypothesis: as she suspected, there is a lack of interesting, available men for independent, intelligent women over 35. Our author claims she was hoping to be proved wrong but the words ‘self-fulfilling prophecy’ don’t seem out of place here - throughout the book it’s more apparent that she wants to prove herself right.

However she does have suggestions for changing the situation she says she has uncovered. First, women seeking men should take a new approach: ‘Doing radical and exciting things with our lives is one solution’, and something that is never a bad idea! Losada also encourages us to look at the bigger picture, postulating that the reason so many marriages are unhappy is that people lack the courage to be honest with each other and to leave without fear of recrimination when a relationship is no longer working. If more people were honest when a relationship stops working, this would mean more available men let loose.

The author claims she’s not scared to be a single woman forever if she can’t find Mr Right. But her vision of ageing single women, though (I hope) tongue in cheek, is offensive and lazy: ‘I have so many wonderful female friends… we could all move into a house together that would become a glorious celebration of being old batty females. We’d all have to wear purple. And have lots of cats… pretend to be witches and have big bonfires and make strange sounds to frighten the local schoolchildren.’ If that’s what happens to single women of a certain age it’s no wonder Losada wants a man!

At times I couldn’t help having the un-sisterly thought that perhaps her standards are too high. If a man has different views to her, she’s not interested. If he enjoys spectator sports, she’s not interested. And yet she falls for two unavailable men in the space of nine months. Wouldn’t a football fan have been better?

Also, although she talks repeatedly about not needing a man she frequently presents being alone as the third-rate option. During her research mission, Losada goes on her first dive and absolutely loves it. She comments that it’s a shame she’s on her own as it would be ideal to share the experience with a partner or friend. Is an experience only worth having if you’re with someone else?

Although intelligently-written and well-considered with a spiritual angle not often found in books about love, ‘Men!’ isn’t as new and subversive as it wants to be. It is after all another book about how women can find men (isn’t it time they found us for a change?!) While part of me found it sad that a vibrant, intelligent and (not that it should matter, but it probably does) attractive woman like Isabel Losada finds it so hard to find a lasting relationship, a larger part of me thought, ‘So?’

Still, I found the author charming and frank and her look at love has more depth than other books of its ilk.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Dating Amy by Amy DeZellar.

Read this review in full at The F Word.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 14, 2007 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance, Self development | Permalink | Comments (4)

August 8, 2007 1:56 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Yours, Faithfully by Sheila O'Flanagan

Reviewed by Helen Redfern...

Bigamy. Not the usual subject of a warm, feel good chick lit novel but Sheila O’Flanagan has produced an engaging read with Yours, Faithfully, exploring the bizarre relationship between two women married to the same man. The book also covers mother-daughter relationships and creating relationships with someone you wouldn’t have thought possible.

We are pulled into the lives of Iona and Sally both of whom are married to Frank. Sally has been married to him since they were very young and they have a teenage daughter, Jenna. Iona met and married Frank after a whirlwind romance four years ago. They are now trying for a baby. Neither wife knows about the other until Frank is involved in an accident.

When they learn of each other’s existence and meet in the hospital sparks fly, but then after a period of hatred towards what each calls ‘the other woman’ we see how their relationship develops and grows. As if having a husband in a coma and finding he is a bigamist isn’t enough Sally also has a major life change to deal with, much to Iona’s envy and Jenna, Sally’s teenage daughter’s, disapproval.

It is an unusual subject matter, and I had to slightly suspend my belief in order to read, but as Sally, Iona and Jenna journey through the maze of Frank’s coma and marriages, the reader is allowed a glimpse into his past, which actually makes Frank’s situation more credible. Siobhán, the policewoman investigating the case, brings an alternate perspective to the situation but also has her own problems to contend with.

As the story moves on O’Flanagan ensures you don’t wish to see one wife succeed over another, rather we see, quite refreshingly in fact, two women who in extreme circumstances and with every reason to dislike one another, develop a friendship.
A handful of strong Irish characters combined with a well paced plot make this book as satisfying as a rich, smooth, velvety ice-cream – an ideal poolside read.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Husbands by Adele Parks

Posted by Keris on August 8, 2007 in American Authors, Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 3, 2007 12:55 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Staying Alive by Matt Beaumont

Sorry to keep banging on about my trip to Paris, but before we went, mindful of packing restrictions, I suggested to my husband he bring along a second book we both might like to read (I was already taking Harry Potter and he had some crime thing) and he picked up Staying Alive. Well, once I'd finished Potter, me and the man I love ended up fighting over this book while his original book languished in his case.

Murray Colin works in advertising, but in the boring, administrative side, not the creative side. His girlfriend's just left him (because he's dull) and he's fed up. And then he finds a lump in one of his testicles and is told he's got "between three and five months to live". Thing is, he hasn't done much living in the last 30-odd years, so how much is he likely to do in 3-5 months? You'd be surprised.

A series of unfortunate events lead to him losing his job, wrecking a car (or two) and being on the run from Russian gangsters, accompanied by a homeless girl, one of the more demented "creatives" from his former agency and said creative's cute 3-year-old daughter. Thing is, although death has never been closer (frankly he'd be lucky to make it to the five month mark...), Murray's never felt more alive.

I really enjoyed this book. It's laugh-out-loud funny and sometimes painfully stressful to read (honestly, how someone can get himself in so much trouble so fast beggars belief) plus it's got a message (though not at all heavy-handed) about living your life before it's too late. Recommended.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Things My Girlfriend and I Have Argued About by Mil Millington

Did you know? Matt Beaumont is the husband of author Maria Beaumont?

Posted by Keris on August 3, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Momzillas

I have to admit to being completely superficial: the thing that grew me to Momzillas by Jill Kargman was... the pretty pink and black cover! It also reminded me a bit of The Nanny Diaries which I *heart* so if the novel itself was awful, I was going to be really disappionted. And at first, I did question the need for this book: semi-autobiographical novels about competititve parenting in Manhattan are not new, but I'd yet to read one I really enjoyed, so I was hoping this would be the one. Luckily, it was! (There must be something in that judging by cover thing after all...)

Momzillas follows San Francisco transplant Hannah Allen's attempts to fit in with the New York society mamas who are married to her husband's new NYC colleagues - and friends with her rich and frosty mother-in-law. Suddenly she's thrust into a world where $350 is a modest amount to spend on a birthday present for the child of someone you hardly know, and staying in the city over the summer (or worse, going on the subway!) just isn't done. Struggling to keep up with the snobbery, but feeling that she has to mingle with women who look down on her in order to get her daughter Violet into the right pre-school and to help her husband's career, Hannah despairs of ever feeling less lonely. So when her old Art Histroy professor from university, the one she had a mega crush on back in the day, asks her to meet up and visit museums with him, that's a perfectly reasonable thing to do, right?

As Hannah's relationship wobbles, so does her certainty that she's done the right thing in moving to New York. She also starts to care a bit less about what the ultra-posh mothers in the posh playground think of her and tries to find a niche for herself and a pre-school for Violet that isn't run by Neo-Nazis...

Can her marriage survive her re-ignited crush on her professor and her husband's crazy hours? And can she break free from all the stupid demands of Momzilla society and enjoy her new situation?

I knew that things would surely work out OK for Hannah in the end, but I enjoyed reading about how she got there. Hannah is a very likeable character (and her daughter Violet couldn't sound cuter!) and Jill Kargman's writing style is snappy and witty. I also liked the fact that Hannah's husband Josh was sympathetic rather than cruel or pathetic, as in other books of this type! I felt the book's ending was a little rushed - too much was summarised rather than shown to the reader - and I was aggravated by the narrator's description of single life as almost a fate worse than death! But I'd definitely recommend this as a great holiday read.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Nanny Diaries by Nicola Kraus and Emma McClaughlin.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 3, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 1, 2007 4:56 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Sammy's Hill by Kristen Gore

Reviewed by Jessica Denmark of Jessica, Etcetera.

Easy to relate to, acceptable to laugh at and unavoidable to laugh with, the 20-something political aide on Capital Hill Sammy Joyce is a reader's "every girl". Seamless between instantaneous thoughts and the immediate situation at hand, Sammy's Hill was the perfect read for me at the precise moment in my life when I read it.

Despite tripping along over life's stumbling blocks, Sammy seems relatively content. She lightheartedly struggles with her career and its effects on her in an all-too-familiar cocktail of passion and politics. Of course, a man in the mix stirs the concoction more so until readers are pleasantly tipsy on her life events and their outcomes.

Sammy's introspections pop and bubble as everyone's do. From her daily battle to keep her Siamese fighting fish alive, to her review of animal attack defense movements while in the shower (a true laugh-out-loud moment), Sammy reassures us that we are not crazy after all when we find ourselves pondering during the weekly budget meeting why we can't keep a plant thriving, milk from spoiling or remember to get an oil change.

With a splash of karma and what-was-she-thinking, Sammy's Hill might be chick-lit in flavor but goes down like a delicious glass of relatively-affordable white wine.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Washingtonienne by Jessica Cutler

Posted by Keris on August 1, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 31, 2007 9:42 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Two Mrs Robinsons by Donna Hay

Reviewed by Bag Lady extraordinaire Nicola Pedley...

2robinsons In Donna Hay's latest novel, The Two Mrs Robinsons, Oliver Robinson dies, leaving behind two women who love him: the ex-wife he hasn’t divorced and the girlfriend he hasn’t married. The uneasy truce that exists between the two women is stretched to the limit when Eve, the ex-wife, decides to run his restaurant while Anna, the girlfriend, thinks they should sell it.

When an unexpected turn of events forces Anna to change her mind it is soon obvious the two women will not be able to agree on how the business should be run. Anna thinks Eve is stuck in the past and Eve accuses Anna of trying to turn Oliver’s into a fast food joint. Throw in a couple of shady employees and a bit of bad advice and the restaurant soon starts to lose money, much to the women’s horror.

Desperate to turn things around the two women find they have to compromise and soon start to grow closer as they look out for each other. I enjoyed the way Donna Hay explored the grief of her characters. Eve completely falls apart, even though she and Oliver have been separated for five years, while Anna relies on pills to hold her world together. Eve’s teenage children have to cope with their mother’s grief as well as their own, and Anna’s three-year-old son, Charlie, has no concept of death and happily tells people his daddy’s dead with a big grin on his face.

This is a good read about a difficult subject – the death of a loved one and the feelings it leaves behind. The emotions are sensitively handled and joy and pain both have their place in this story of grief and recovery.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try How Will I Know? By Sheila O’Flanagan or Anybody Out There? by Marian Keyes.

[Reviewed by Nicola Pedley]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 31, 2007 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 26, 2007 9:25 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye by Victoria Laurie

Abbycooper

Reviewed by Bag Lady extraordinaire Nicola Pedley...

Victoria Laurie is a professional psychic who uses her gift to help police investigations. Her character, Abby Cooper, is a professional psychic who finds herself using her gift to help police investigations. Victoria Laurie lives in Massachusetts with her dachshunds, Lilly and Toby. Abby Cooper lives in Detroit with her dachshund, Eggy… Frustrated by clichéd representations of psychics as kooks and crooks, Ms. Laurie has (clearly!) drawn on her own experiences to create the character of Abby Cooper, Psychic Eye.

Abby Cooper is looking for some excitement because she feels so vanilla – she needs a bit of hot fudge topping. Most people would think that being a P.I., Psychic Intuitive, would be exciting enough but it’s not until a client winds up dead that Abby realises that hot fudge isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Despite helping solve white collar crimes Abby has never offered information to the police, and with good reason. When she inadvertently relates her visions of her clients murder to Detective Dutch Rivers she soon becomes the prime suspect. After all, there are no such things as psychics so how else could she possibly know all the details of the crime???

In most cosy mysteries the heroine solves the crime because she has an amazing run of luck and is privy to all the local gossip and by putting the two together she solves the mystery and saves the day.

Ms Laurie’s neat little twist – giving Abby visions – is, in my opinion, a nicer solution. Of course, her ability isn’t infallible and Abby often ignores her intuitions - she’d go crazy if she listened to them all the time, and the mystery would be solved about half way through the book. But with a nice supporting cast: the potential cop boyfriend, rich businesswoman older sister, and Dave the handyman, not to mention Eggy the dachshund, this is a really enjoyable read and Ms Laurie gives us an insight into being a professional psychic.

And if you really enjoy the book you can contact Ms Laurie via her website to book a reading of your own!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris or One For the Money by Janet Evanovich.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 26, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (3)

BOOK REVIEW: Queen of Broken Hearts by Cassandra King

Reviewed by Diane Johnston of Corrieblog...

Queenofbrokenhearts Dr. Clare Ballenger is a divorce coach, helping women cope with the loss of a crumbled marraige, guiding them to start afresh and let go of the past. The only problem is, she's still recovering from a more tragic loss herself.

And she has a second chance at love with not just one man but two - but will she be able to let go of the past and move on? Can the doctor heal herself?

I've never read any of Cassandra King's work before so I opened Queen of Broken Hearts without any preconceptions. I was pleased to discover that the main character, Dr. Clare Ballenger, her best friend Dory Rogers, and both of Clare's potential lovers are my age (late 40s) or older. It's nice when you can identify with the people you meet in books. I, too, have been divorced so I can relate to that aspect of the story as well.

The book takes place in Alabama and is filled with colourful peripheral characters. The narrative is in the first person present most of the time, except when Clare takes the reader back to fill in some of the blanks that she constantly opens up. Some she fills in straight away and some take a while but be patient, they will get filled in eventually. I did find that a bit disconcerting, being left hanging at times wondering what she meant when she hinted at something that happened the previous summer or even years before.

There is a romance threading its bumpy way through the book, with all the ups and downs you might expect. The ups and downs do not include juicy sex scenes, so if you're looking for that, look the other way. In this case, the story doesn't really need it because it's not about that. It's about women rediscovering themselves as they approach middle age after their lives change completely and often traumatically. It's about women supporting each other and it's about friendship and love in all the best ways. I'm rating it a little less than perfect, though, because I did find the author's style of leaving you wondering about those blanks a bit annoying at times even though all the loose ends were tied up at the end.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try How Will I Know? By Sheila O’Flanagan.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 26, 2007 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 24, 2007 1:47 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Second Chance by Jane Green

It's funny, I mentioned in the introduction to our interview with Jane Green that she's one of the most divisive chick lit authors: you either love her or hate her. Um, except that I didn't love her or hate her. I hated Straight Talking and loved Bookends and wasn't that fussed on Babyville. So I guess that would put me in the "meh" category. But still I thought I had a strong sense of what Jane Green's novels were like and I felt (without having read most of them...) that I didn't like them (which, yes, I now appreciate was stupid, but these things happen). So I approached Second Chance with trepidation...

When Tom is killed in a terrorist attack, his old school friends (who, over the years, haven't kept in touch with each other, but did all keep in touch with Tom) meet for his memorial service and find themselves, for various reasons, enjoying being back in each other's lives again. Holly is stuck in a loveless marriage, but finds herself becoming attracted to Tom's brother, Will. Paul and Anna have been trying to have a baby, but with cycle after cycle of IVF failing, are beginning to become disheartened. Alcoholic actress Saffron is having an affair with a married Hollywood superstar. Olivia is trying to get back on her feet after the end of the relationship she assumed was forever. Plus, of course, they've all got their grief and shock at losing Tom to deal with.

You probably won't be surprised to hear that I was surprised at how much I enjoyed Second Chance. Funnily enough, since Jane Green was one of the original chick litters, it's much more "women's fiction" than chick lit (is this inevitable as chick lit authors get older, married and have children? Probably). The characters are fairly stereotypical, but they're also believable and warm, particularly Holly whose story is more central than the others - I really liked her.

One complaint would be that all (or at least most) of the characters call each other "my darling". Doesn't matter if they're British, American or Swedish, it's all "my darling" all the time. (Plus there was the small matter of Holly - who lives in the UK - going off to Barnes & Noble, which we don't have in the UK...)

But that's just nitpicking, really. I found that the more I read Second Chance, the more I wanted to spend time with these character, the more I wanted everything to work out for them, and the more I realised how wrong I'd been about Jane Green.

Remember those adverts - "You know more Crowded House songs than you think you do"? You might find you like Jane Green more than you thought you would. Give her a second chance. (God, I didn't even plan that - I'm brilliant!)

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try 21 Dream Street by Lisa Jewell

Posted by Keris on July 24, 2007 in British Authors, Jane Green, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (4)

July 20, 2007 2:44 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Nine Summers by Rina Huber

I've never sailed. I've never actually had much interest in sailing. But I am interested in travelling around the Mediterranean, so I expected Nine Summers to be a vicarious travel treat. I wasn't disappointed, but it's more than that too.

When Felix Huber is diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, he and his wife Rina decide to retire and spend however many years they have left sailing around the Mediterranean. Starting in France, they spend the next nine summers sailing their yacht Galatea from Italy to Greece to Turkey, even Israel.

On the way, they have numerous, significant problems - Felix suffers a stroke practically before they've set off, Rina contracts breast cancer and also has to have a potentially paralysing back operation, and then Felix has a heart attack - but their positive attitude, lovely natures and deep love for each other carry them through everything.

I loved Nine Summers. It's not just a travel memoir, but a memoir of a relationship. The sections about Rina' childhood in Israel and Italy following her mother's death are moving, but it's Rina and Felix's relationship that really shines through. Married for 50 years, they were still best friends who were happy - in fact more than happy - to spend 24 hours a day together in a very enclosed space.

By the end of the book I'd fallen in love with both of them. It didn't make me want to sail, but it did make me want to go and hug my husband.

A really lovely book.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Summer At Tiffany by Marjorie Hart

Posted by Keris on July 20, 2007 in Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: Anatomy of a Boyfriend by Daria Snadowsky

Anatomy_2 We've talked about Anatomy of a Boyfriend before, when the cover was causing a stir in America. I love the design and was very interested to read the book, which wasn't really anything like I expected: I thought it would be Louise Rennison-esque, instead it's more like Judy Blume...

Daria Snadowsky's debut novel is the story of the relationship between 17-year old Dominique and her new boyfriend Wes. Wes is a shy but sweet athletic/writerly type, while Dominique wants to be a doctor - hence the title of the book, she's obsessed with medical textbooks!

We follow the couple from their first meeting, through to their first semester at university, and all the ups and downs and those major 'firsts' that come with a first love...

This very much reminded me of a modern-day Forever (although with a little less um, description). It's certainly not for younger teenagers but the sexual stuff is realistic and appropriate in the context of the story. Easy to read and with some great emotional depth, I just wondered if the teenager's voices were entirely lifelike: Dom is a little immature at times where her best friend Amy sometimes sounds like SATC's Samantha. Also the relationship between Dom and Wes takes a while to get going, and I was a bit frustrated by that!

I did love the two girls' friendship and found the story very moving and well-crafted. It's quite an easy read, but definitely not a facile one. I was sad when I'd finished it and got quite emotionally involved with the characters so I'm definitely looking forward to more books by this new author. (In other words, thank you Luisa for the loan!)

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Good Girls by Laura Ruby.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 20, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 19, 2007 12:26 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Wicked Whispers by Jessica Callan

Wicked_whispers_2 Wicked Whispers is the new book by Jessica Callan who, if you don't know the name, was one third of the original 3am girls from The Mirror's much-copied gossip column. 3am was set up to be something completely new in the world of journalism: instead of begging PRs for the right to cover stars and being discreet about what they said, 3am laid it all bare. The 3 3am girls - or rather, women - tricked and cajoled stars into giving them photographs and quotes, hid in odd places (quite often public toilets) to get stories and mingled with the stars, placing themselves firmly in the story in a style that drew many imitators. Callan stayed at the column for 5 years, becoming 'head girl' before stepping down in 2005 to catch her breath (and presumably detox her liver...)

This memoir is her recollections of five fun-filled years of gossip. But does it make wicked reading?

Of course it does! It's not a book that dishes huge amounts of dirt on major celebrities, but there's enough goss here to surprise all but the most hardened celeb-spotter (even if she keeps some things to herself!) and I loved the insight into this style of journalism and the lifestyle (and the dilemmas) involved.

Callan shows that gathering gossip at glitzy parties isn't always as much fun as it sounds and lifts the lid on how the celeb PR game works, as well as telling a few tales on some celebrities who frankly, deserve it.

The one little thing that annoyed me was that there was at times a bit too much exposition through dialogue (and we don't like that) - for example, one conversation runs something like:

"You know that bloke John Hurt?"

"Yes, he was in --- and now he's starring in --- ... what about him?"

The author should trust her audience to either know who she's talking about or know how to look it up!

Still, I didn't have many complaints about this book: I found this a light and addictive read and raced through it, longing for more!

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Tabloid Love by Bridget Harrison.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 19, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 18, 2007 4:38 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Two for the Dough by Janet Evanovich

I've read all of Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum books as they've each come out, but I'm now re-reading them as part of my big book clear-out. Yes, I'm attempting to get rid of most of my books and, since the Evanovich books are widely available in libraries if I ever got the urge to re-read any of them again (re-re-read?) they're going to be among the first to go.

Two for the Dough, like all of Evanovich's books, has a rather convoluted plot which, if I'm honest, I didn't really bother to follow. I tend to just go along for the ride, enjoy the flirting and the banter and not worry about the crime until it all works out in the end. Is that wrong?

Basically, Stephanie is on the trail of Kenny Mancuso has gone missing following the murder of one of his friends. At the same time, another friend, Spiro Stiva, who is looking after Stiva's Funeral Parlour while his stepfather Constantine is in hospital recovering from a herniated disk, asks Stephanie to try and find 24 coffins that he bought on the cheap and then ... misplaced.

Mancuso is a cousin of Joe Morelli's, so Joe has personal and professional reasons (Joe's a cop) to want to find Mancuso and when he learns that Mancuso has been harassing Stephanie, he starts hanging around. Both to protect her and because Stephanie tends to attract trouble and is likely to lead the police to Mancuso.

The early Plum books are a bit more serious and less slapstick than later books, I think. (Then again, Stephanie does fall off a fire escape and land in dog mess, so I might be wrong about that.) But apart from that everything is in place. The sexual tension with gorgeous Joe Morelli (those of you who'd choose Ranger over Joe are just plain weird - actually, there's barely any Ranger in this book), Grandma Mazur at her crazy best and, of course, Stephanie is funny and charming.

If you've never read any Stephanie Plum books, I envy you. You've got a treat in store.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try One for the Money by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Keris on July 18, 2007 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 17, 2007 4:22 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Tuesday Erotica Club by Lisa Beth Kovetz

Tuesday Four women from very different backgrounds form an unlikely writers' alliance in Lisa Beth Kovetz's debut novel, The Tuesday Erotica Club.

All have different jobs at a New York law firm when newly-pregnant Aimee decides to start a weekly writing group, which quickly becomes a weekly erotic writing group. Her friend Brooke is quick to join, as is older associate Margot, who has a reputation for being a bit scary. Secretary Lux is a latecomer to the group and with her distinct lack of writing skills, wildly coloured clothing and hair and tough attitude, isn't a welcome addition. But she doesn't care. As the group becomes a regular fixture for all four women, all of their lives begin to change in dramatic ways and Aimee, Brooke, Margot and Lux realise they need each other's support more than they ever could have guessed...

As you might suspect from the title, there's a certain amount of erotic writing in the book, as we are treated to the women's creative efforts. It just stops short of being too much, but probably isn't for the squeamish about sex. However, the real plot of the book is about the importance of female friendship and it's a very good, well-crafted read. Unlike some other books I've read recently (e.g. this one), when the chapters alternated viewpoints, I didn't find it hard to keep them separate at all. And all the women became sympathetic characters by the end of the book, even the ones who didn't start out that way!

I just have two slight reservations: I felt that the character of Lux was maybe a little too naive at times, and I felt that maybe we didn't need to read quite so much erotica (I know, the clue was in the title!) - sex may sell, but this book doesn't need any gimmicks to keep readers hooked.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Reading Group by Elizabeth Noble.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 17, 2007 in American Authors, Bonkbusters, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (6)

July 16, 2007 3:42 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel

I was a bit wary about reading Mating in Captivity. For a start, it's called Mating in Captivity. And its subtitle is Sex, Lies and Domestic Bliss (that's in the UK; the US subtitle was Reconciling the Erotic and the Domestic). But it's actually a surprisingly readable and insightful look at sex in long-term relationships.

The author, Esther Perel's contention is that we need to look at sex in long-term relationships in a different way. She suggests that everything we've come to prize in relationships - equality, tenderness, honesty - is at odds with what we look for in sex (i.e. passion, eroticism and, you know, muckiness).

The quote on the back from the Sunday Times says, "Enormous fun," which I thought was a bit odd for a book on this subject, but it is very enjoyable and an easy read. Using case studies and anecdotal evidence, Perel looks at a number of different relationships and scenarios and her arguments are entirely convincing.

Whether out of nosiness or just because they were the more entertaining bits, I enjoyed the case studies more than Perel's analysis, but the entire book is entertaining and informative.

Much like John Gray's Men Are From Mars, Women Are From Venus, Mating in Captivity could change the way couples look at each other and relationships. Recommended.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Women Who Think Too Much by Dr Susan Nolen Hoeksema

Posted by Keris on July 16, 2007 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Self development | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 11, 2007 4:20 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Dangerous Dress by Julia Holden

First of all, can I just say how much I love the cover of Julia Holden's debut novel, A Dangerous Dress? It perfectly captures the mood of the book (and of the dress that's the star of the show). We often compare the US and UK covers, and this is one time when (I think) the UK version is definitely superior. (Here's the original US version - what do you think?)

But what is the book like, you're wanting to know! Well, it's about a dress. Yes, really. Jane is a bored bank worker in the town of Bum****, Indiana (not its real name, but that's what everyone calls it 'cos its so boring). One day, she's contacted out of the blue by a film company who read an essay she wrote in university about the glamorous Parisian gown she found among her late grandmother's belongings. In the essay, she speculated about who might have designed it and where her grandma may have worn it, and talked about its wonderful design.

The film's production crew read her passionate essay and think she's just the person to track down a similar dress for their movie, so Jane packs her bags, hurriedly arranges a passport and catches a plane to Paris to work on a film and follow in her grandmother's footsteps... Love, excitement and glamour await her - or do they?

Well, she certainly has an interesting and exciting time, but it's a bit of a bumpy ride and things don't turn out as Jane expects ( wouldn't make a good book if they did!)

When I think about the plot of this book in retrospect, it seems a little silly but it has a fairytale-like quality that means you have to suspend disbelief as it's fairly unlikely the events of the book would take place in real life and a lot of the plot is based on coincidences and chance. But it's all so charming that I was completely absorbed in the story and couldn't wait to find out what would happen next. I absolutely raced through it and found Jane a charming, if naive, narrator. (A bit YA-ish if I'm honest). I was a little bit disappointed that the end didn't quite tie up all the loose ends, but a sequel would be great and I'll definitely read more by this talented new author.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Venus Envy by Shannon McKelden.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 11, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Fashion-Lit, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (7)

BOOK REVIEW: Marshmallows for Breakfast by Dorothy Koomson

I must be one of the few chick lit fans who hasn't yet read Dorothy Koomson's last book, My Best Friend's Girl - I've got it, I just haven't got around to it yet - but I've heard such good things about it that I was keen to read her new book, Marshmallows for Breakfast.

It's the story of Kendra Tamale who returns to England from Australia and rents a room from Kyle, a single father of two gorgeous children, Summer and Jaxon. Kendra was planning to keep herself to herself, but the children keep coming to her for help and soon she's as embroiled in the family and their problems as if they were her own children.

Kendra has a lot of secrets: she can't have children of her own, she left a man she loves in Australia, but won't say why (only that she's done something terrible) and then there's also the abuse in her past that she not only won't talk about, but also refuses to think about.

And then she bumps into a man from her past and the children's mother takes them away without warning or contact, forcing Kendra to confront everything she's repressed.

I found Marshmallows for Breakfast completely compelling. The children, Summer and Jaxon, are the most perfectly conveyed kids I've read for a long time. Like Kendra, I fell completely in love with them.

I did find that a bit too much was explained in depth. Flashbacks and other characters points of view appear in italics and whenever I was faced with an italic section I felt that it could have been cut entirely or at least significantly. Koomson shouldn't be afraid of leaving something to the reader's imagination.

Also Kendra is rather dry and humourless and I think a bit more humour from Kendra - rather than relying on her friend Gabrielle or the children for levity - might have helped. But, at the same time, with what Kendra's been through, she certainly wouldn't be wisecracking left and right. I only mention it because on the few occasions Kendra did make jokes, I thought it made her seem more human. Then again, with her history, she's not exactly functioning fully, so this was perhaps intentional.

There are some extremely serious issues tackled in this book (those people who think chick lit is fluff should be prescribed it immediately) and it's dealt with sensitively and intelligently. I was worried about the ending at one point - so much that I actually spoke to the book and said, "You'd better not..." (I tell you that not to show how crazy I am, but rather how affecting I found the book!) But I needn't have worried. The ending is perfect.

All in all, I thought Marshmallows for Breakfast was wonderful.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Love Walked In by Marisa De Los Santos

Posted by Keris on July 11, 2007 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 3, 2007 1:27 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Next Thing on My List by Jill Smolinski

Jillsmolinski As soon as I heard the concept of Jill Smolinski's The Next Thing on my List, I was hooked:

June Parker's life is plodding along nicely (or so she thinks) when she has a car accident on the way home from a Weight Watchers meeting (she just has one or two pounds to shift, you see). Her passenger, Marissa, who she barely knows, tragically dies, and June finds in her possessions a list, entitled “20 Things to Do By My 25th Birthday.”

Full of guilt over her Marissa's death, June decides to take on the challenge of completing the list in her memory...

But it's not easy: some of the things on the list are pretty challenging "Change someone's life", for example. Others, like "make Buddy Fitch pay" are simply puzzling - who is this mysterious Fitch man, and what does he need to pay for, exactly? And how?!

Still, June is committed to her task, and with just a few months to go before Marissa's birthday, she speeds into action to finish the 18 items on the list that Marissa didn't get round to - finding her own life is totally transformed in the process.

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. It was a fun, entertaining read with some depth to it, too. And its message, that we should all dare to do the things we want to do (but are scared of) before its too late may not be a new one, but it's presented in a throughly readable, endearing way. I recommend you read it!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Twenty Times a Lady by Karyn Bosnak.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 3, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

June 22, 2007 9:53 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Girl Overboard by Aimee Ferris

Before reviewing YA novel Girl Overboard, I'd better admit to an interest - Aimee Ferris used to be a member of the online chick lit writing group I host. Reading a book by someone you know (albeit not in person) is always a bit of a worry - reviewing it is even scarier - but luckily Girl Overboard was just as good as I expected it to be.

Part of Penguin's Students Across the Seven Seas (SASS) series, Girl Overboard focusses on the aptly-named Marina, whose ambition is to be a Marine Biologist. Leaving her ski-loving boyfriend behind in Vermont, Marina sets out on a six-week study tour of the Caribbean, where she'll be given the opportunity to swim with and learn about sharks, turtles and dolphins.

Also on the boat are (inevitably) a new best friend (Jeannette), a mean girl (Rhee) and a hot boy (Link). While the characters may be predictable, the situations and settings aren't. Aimee worked with marine life in the Caribbean herself and her knowledge and passion for the subject shines through.

The thing I loved about this book was that while there was teen angst and (yes) snogging, there's also a message about ecology and endangered species that's even more convincing for being woven into the story. It's never heavy-handed or preachy.

Plus it's nice to read about a teen who is honest and acts with maturity and integrity, while still being cool and cute.

Girl Overboard is as educational as it is entertaining and that's a rare blend.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Dramarama by E Lockhart

Posted by Keris on June 22, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (7)

June 21, 2007 7:03 PM

PREVIEW REVIEW: Dedication by Nicola Kraus and Emma McLaughlin

I approached Dedication, the new novel by Nicola Kraus and Emma McLaughlin (release date 2 July), with a mixture of excitement and trepidation: excitement, because I loved their first book, The Nanny Diaries. Trepidation, because I hated their second, Citizen Girl.

Dedication features a slightly older heroine than those two novels, and the storyline runs a little deeper this time, too. It's the story of 30-year old Kate, whose high-school boyfriend and love of her life Jake left town without a word just before the prom... and then became one of the biggest recording artists of his generation, with a series of songs about their relationship. When Kate's best friend from home Laura calls to tell her Jake's home filming a TV hometown special, Kate seizes the chance she's been waiting twelve years for, and goes back to confront him.

I loved the premise of this novel, and found Kate very relateable. The book switches between the present day and the past, as we find out about Laura and Kate's high-school experience and how Kate and Jake got together. The depictions of being a teenager in the 90s rings very true, and the re-creation of school days is excellent: just that little bit nicer than school days really are, so it reads as nostalgic and bittersweet. I was gripped, and often a little disappointed to have to come back to the present day, as the parts of the novel set in the past are definitely stronger - up until the end, and the confrontation, when I was gripped again.

Dedication is very different to both of Kraus and McLaughlin's previous books, so whatever your opinion of those, I recommend putting it aside and giving Dedication a whirl.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Department of Lost and Found by Allison Winn Scotch.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 21, 2007 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (6)

June 20, 2007 10:56 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Late Night Talking by Leslie Schnur

Lesley Schnur's debut novel, The Dog Walker, is one of my favourite chick lit books of all time, so I couldn't wait to read her second book, Late Night Talking. Also because its heroine, Jeannie Sterling, is obsessed with people's rude behaviour. Having ranted about littering and bad drivers many times myself, I knew it would be right up my street.

Jeannie presents a late night radio talk show, Sterling Behaviour, about all those thoughtless little things people do that drive other people mad: from leaving wet towels on the benches at the gym, to adults riding bikes on the pavement. With her producer and best friend, Luce, Jeannie takes calls from people reporting rudeness and discusses what should be done.

Meanwhile Jeannie's friend Thomas comes back from his journalist adventures in dangerous destinations. Jeannie's long harboured a fantasy that they might get together and when it turns out that Thomas has had the same idea, it finally seems like Jeannie's personal life might be as successful as her professional life.

When one night she calls a man she sees talking on his cellphone while also driving a Hummer of all things, she yells at him and he gets out of the car, resulting in a discussion that's as much flirtation as it is confrontation. The man turns out to be multi-millionaire businessman Nicholas Moss who, hearing Jeannie criticising him on the radio decides to get his revenge by buying the radio station...

Add a visit from Jeannie's unreliable father - along with his untrainable dog - and things might not be quite as ordered as they originally seemed.

Late Night Talking is an extremely entertaining and thought-provoking book. Jeannie is wonderful and her spats with Moss made me think of old Cary Grant movies (okay, they weren't quite that good - how about George Clooney and Catherine Zeta Jones in Intolerable Cruelty?). In fact, the entire book has a very filmic quality. I found myself obsessing over who I would cast in the movie (Gilmore Girls' Lauren Graham as Jeannie, George Clooney as Moss (natch), Matthew McConaughey for Thomas, Kristin Davies as Luce...).

The book has genuinely interesting things to say about personal and moral responsibility without being preachy or po-faced. Also, Lesley Schnur writes about New York beautifully (but I said that last time).

I didn't enjoy it quite as much as The Dog Walker, but it's still a wonderful book.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos

Incidentally, the cover above is the US cover and it reminds me a lot of the covers of Karen Quinn's first two books, particularly The Ivy Chronicles, see:

The UK cover of Late Night Talking is completely different. Which do you prefer?

Posted by Keris on June 20, 2007 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 19, 2007 12:40 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Department of Lost and Found by Allison Winn Scotch

Deptof Ever since I heard about Allison Winn Scotch's debut novel, The Department of Lost and Found, I've been looking forward to reading it. It's about Natalie Miller, political assistant to the senator of New York (shades of Hillary Clinton!) who's a total workaholic. Then one day her boyfriend Ned discovers a lump in her breast and... I'm trying not to use a cliche like 'her whole world turns upside down' but honestly, her whole world does go A over T.

Not only does Ned pick the time immediately post-diagnosis to confess he's been planning on leaving her for another woman, but coping with chemo knocks Natalie for six, and her relationships with those closest to her start to change, too. It's scary stuff.

But that doesn't mean this book is downbeat: it's thoughtful, it's informative about breast cancer treatment, and I often read it with a lump in my throat. But it's also funny and silly at times, and Natalie is endearingly flawed. Sometimes she's more worried about getting the answers on The Price is Right, or why her big love Jake left her than the fact she has cancer. But other times she stares death head on, and wonders what she's given to the world and if she's ready to die.

Allison Winn Scotch wrote this book after her best friend died of cancer, in the hope that writing a slightly happier ending would be cathartic. I hope for her sake that it was, but she certainly did her friend justice with this very entertaining and yes (another cliche) heartwarming read.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Lady Luck's Map of Vegas by Barbara Samuel

*Allison Winn Scotch's late friend, Elizabeth Anne Prostic, has a foundation in her name - visit www.metacancer.org to find out more.*

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 19, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 15, 2007 2:18 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Bright Lights, Big Ass: A Self-Indulgent, Surly, Ex-Sorority Girl's Guide to Why It Often Sucks in The City, or Who Are These Idiots and Why Do They All Live Next Door to Me? by Jen Lancaster

Brightlightsbigass Wow, who could resist a subtitle like that? Not me, so I didn't.

Bright Lights, Big Ass is Jen Lancaster's follow-up memoir* to Bitter is the New Black, the story of her descent from rich dot-commer to almost-starving author, and the life lessons she learned along the way. In the new book, Jen's new favourite shops are Target and Ikea, she uses the library and public transport instead of bookshops and cabs and she even faces up to her phobia of gynae exams (in a hilarious chapter inolving a cautionary tale about hospital paper gowns). Lancaster is such an engaging and entertaining author with a bubbly personality that you can't help but warm to her and enjoy spending time absorbing her life.

But I didn't enjoy this book quite as much as Bitter is the New Black...

I wanted to know what happened between the time Jen decided to work on her book and the start of the new book, I wanted to know about the book stuff like meetings with Jen's editors and agent and what the marketing strategy was and... OK, I'm a book geek. But other readers might be curious too. I also felt (hey, let's make it three in a row) - it could have been a bit more... (say it with me, people:) cohesive! There isn't a definite trajectory in this book as there was in the first: Jen focuses on her more minor ups and downs (awful neighbours, having to temp for a while, transportation 'issues')and does so very well, but there isn't the tension of the first book. Which is good, as I don't want Lancaster to go through anything awful... but it makes slightly less interesting reading and is a collection of funny and random events more than a narrative.

It's still fun, fab and very worth reading, though and I can't wait for the next one!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Bitter is the New Black by Jen Lancaster.

*Huh - I haven't reviewed one work of fiction this week! Next week I will, promise...

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 15, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 13, 2007 10:32 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Forty Camel Girl: Letters from Turkey by E. Grace Beyler

Shiny Shiny's deputy ed, the lovely Alex Roumbas, reviews a recent read she thinks Trashionista readers will enjoy: Forty Camel Girl is available to buy from the website (above), and Alex highly recommends that you do so - read on to find out why...

In 1969, at the age of twenty six, E. Grace Beyler found herself bound for Turkey with her fiance, Hakan, ready to live with his family while he completed mandatory army service. Not yet speaking a word of the language and full of the independence of her American upbringing, she faithfully wrote home to her parents in the United States chronicling her experiences. Beyler has now drawn on these letters to create a funny, moving diary of this pivotal period in her life in Forty Camel Girl: Letters from Turkey.

Beyler's letters describe not only a turning point in her own life, but that of the nation she adopts as her temporary home. Describing the westernisation of Turkey and the enduring legacy of Ataturk, Grace is also forced to examine international attitudes to US foreign policy which remain strikingly relevant nearly forty years later. Beyler's alternately moving and hilarious accounts of learning to love and communicate with her new extended family take place against the backdrop of the shifting place of Turkish women in society and news from home such as the imminent deployment of her brother, Bill, to Vietnam. Written with passion and humour, Forty Camel Girl: Letters from Turkey is a highly readable personal memoir definitely worth missing your tube stop for.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Dork Whore by Iris Bahr.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 13, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 12, 2007 7:36 PM

BOOK REVIEW: What The Dog Did by Emily Yoffe

Whatthedog Temporarily taking over Keris's mantle as animal-themed book reviewer (pigs, dogs, monkeys, birds, she reads about them all), I decided to read What The Dog Did. The book is Slate agony aunt/writer Emily Yoffe's memoir about her beagle Sasha, and how she turned Emily's family life upside down.

A "formerly reluctant dog owner", Yoffe had always been more of a 'cat person', but when her young daughter became desperate for a dog, and her husband wanted one too, she caved in. What she didn't expect was to become a lifelong convert to the canine cause - not only becoming Sasha's main carer, but a doggie foster carer too.

I really enjoyed this book although some of the pieces have formerly been published as essays in Slate and I think it didn't have a cohesive feel as a result. It's well-written, entertaining and very informative, though - and has given me a soft spot for beagles for life.

Although it's definitely made me realise that it's important to think once, twice, three hundred times before you take on the responsibility of a dog. If you get one like Sasha, your life will no longer be your own! Thank goodness, for Yoffe, it's worth it.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Marley and Me by John Grogan.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 12, 2007 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 7, 2007 2:05 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Dramarama by E. Lockhart

When Sarah and Demi meet, they become instant firm friends. They recognise each other as kindred spirits, as they possess an internal 'bigness' that makes them want to be performers. Demi changes Sarah's name to Sadye to suit her aspirations, and the pair are sure that nothing can ever affect their friendship or their dreams.

They both pass the audition for theatre camp and are set to spend the summer of a lifetime. But Demi clearly thrives from the very start, throwing himself into the lifestyle, whereas Sadye is more hesitant. Then Demi finds himself a serious boyfriend and the rift between the friends deepens. Sadye feels intimidated by the talent of her friend and her roommates, and she starts to question whether this is really her destiny after all. But at the same time as her insecurities increase, the spotlight seems to shine on Demi more and more. Can their friendship survive?

Fans of E. Lockhart's previous books will not be disappointed with Dramarama. The characters and relationships are realistic and you feel like you're right there with Sadye, experiencing the highs and lows of her summer. Demi is also a wonderfully drawn character, and all the people Sadye meets at the camp are completely believable. I particularly loved Sadye's constant questioning and challenging of the status quo - she really was a wonderful character.

Dramarama is filled with references which will be a delight to anyone with a love of musicals and theatre. This isn't necessary to enjoy the book, though, as everything is explained and brought to life for all readers. The plot and narration are sometimes poignant, often hilarious, and always utterly engaging.

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try The Boyfriend List and/or The Boy Book by E. Lockhart

[Luisa Plaja]

Posted by Keris on June 7, 2007 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 6, 2007 11:24 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Two Lipsticks and a Lover by Helena Frith Powell

Twolipsticks When Helena Frith Powell moved to France from England she found that the difference between her and the French women around her was glaringly obvious: they all looked effortlessly stylish - and she didn't.

So in Two Lipsticks and a Lover she sets out to find out what is it that gives the French their certain Je Ne Sais Quoi, covering topics from fashion to affairs to the French attitude to sex (much more intellectual than the British one, apparently) .

iI found this a really enjoyable read. What could have been a very superficial book is made more interesting by the inclusion of just the right amount of facts about French food, culture and history. However I couldn't help feeling that maybe Frith Powell buys into the beauty myth a bit too much, being very disparaging about a woman she sees with unshaved armpits. (After all, there's no law that says we have to defuzz all over and spend hundreds of euros a year on face creams, is there? - If there was I might be writing this from the slammer!)

Take it all with a pinch of salt, however, and you might learn something and perhaps even, as the cover promises, 'Unlock your inner French woman...'

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Bonjour Tristesse by Francoise Sagan.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 6, 2007 in British Authors, Fashion-Lit, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (3)

BOOK REVIEW: The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes by Jennifer Crusie, Eileen Dreyer & Anne Stuart

You all know how much we love Jennifer Crusie here at Trashionista, so a collaborative novel (Crusie is joined by Eileen Dreyer and Anne Stuart) was bound to be a treat. Plus, it's about three magical sisters. I was almost afraid to read it in case I was disappointed (I'm pessimistic like that). Was I?

Of course not. The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes is the story of Dee, Lizzie and Mare: three sisters who have been on the run from their Aunt Xan since their parents' death. Living in the small town of Salem's Fork, they're happy, but unfulfilled. Dee works in a bank and is desperate for Mare to go to college. Mare works at Value Video!! and Lizzie is obsessed with trying to turn straw into gold, believing that if their money problems were solved, all their problems would be solved.

But then three - no, four - gorgeous men arrive. Danny is researching the Fortune family for a book and wants Dee's help. Elric (a wizard) has come to help Lizzie control her powers. Mare's former boyfriend, Crash, has come back to win Mare back, but he's got competition in Jude, Value Video!! head honcho, who wants Mare for himself.

Odd that all the men have turned up at the same time? Not really. Turns out it's Xan's doing - she's arranged for the girls' true loves to come to town, but why?

Well, I'm not going to say, obviously. What I will say is that The Unfortunate Miss Fortunes is enormous fun. I was expecting three novellas, but it's not - it's a novel written by three women and it's impossible to see the joins (if I hadn't known Mare was Crusie's character, I wouldn't have been able to pick even that out). The women are strong and entertaining. The men are (almost) all gorgeous. It's (of course) very funny. And there's loads of sex. I hesitate to say that there might be too much (I thought they were never going to stop!) but that might just be me.

A book to snuggle up with and lose yourself in.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Enchanted Inc by Shanna Swendson

Posted by Keris on June 6, 2007 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 4, 2007 4:15 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: The Year of Magical Thinking by Joan Didion

Theyear When Joan Didion's writer husband John Gregory Dunne dropped dead at their dining room table on December 30, 2003, she went into shock. Their daughter was seriously ill in hospital and although her friends rallied round, Didion didn't know how she'd cope. To record her feelings and try to make sense of them, she began keeping a diary of the year that followed: The Year of Magical Thinking.

Didion is one of America's most-respected modern novelists, even if she may not exactly be a household name over here. This book is the memoir of one year of her life, and how she coped with the loss of her husband and the perilous health situation of her daughter. Emotional and moving, the book is sentimental without being mawkish and dares you not to cry.

Although very emotionally raw, I think it could be very useful to anyone going through a similar loss, and even comforting to those who haven't: it shows that grief isn't easy, but it is possible to start to heal.

However, I can't help thinking that Calvin Trillin's book about the loss of his wife has ruined other grief memoirs for me forever. Short, sweet, restrained and totally lacking in self-pity whilst at the same time one of the most moving things I've ever read, that book was pitch-perfect. Joan Didion's book has a more literary tone which occasionally veers into self-indulgence (not that I blame her, I'm sure I'd be ten times worse!) and a lack of understanding that she's in a position of high privilege: able to afford to stay in expensive Hollywood hotels and have only the best doctors for her daughter, for example. At one point she says she doesn't know when she'll be able to work again, which will sound incredible to all the millions of people who have no choice but to return to work after the loss of a loved one, and try to manage the best they can. This aspect of the book can be a tad difficult to relate to, although I certainly don't begrudge Didion her time off.

I still found this a very good read, and a book that's extremely difficult to put down.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try About Alice by Calvin Trillin or My Life So Far by Jane Fonda

PS: I said I would read this book, and I did! (Eventually).

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on June 4, 2007 in American Authors, Memoirs, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 1, 2007 6:10 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Monkey Love by Brenda Scott Royce

Brenda Scott Royce has got an intriguing job: she's Director of Publications for the Greater Los Angeles Zoo Association and editor of the Zoo's magazine, Zoo View, so she was surely the perfect person to write a book the star of which is a ... helper monkey.

Yes, stand-up comedienne and odd-job woman Holly is the heroine of Monkey Love, but Tallulah the capuchin monkey (like Ross's monkey, Marcel, on Friends) is the star. Holly's got a great New York life, free Starbucks from her best friend and barista Carter, a stand up double act with her other best friend (and Carter's other half, Danny) and an apartment featuring a cat named Grouch and a snake called Rocky (Rocky the Boa, get it?).

The snake belongs to Holly's cousin Gerry's girlfriend who won't take it back. After stealing a pair of Robert de Niro's socks, Gerry himself is more interested in his burgeoning celebrity sock empire than intervening between his girlfriend and his cousin, until he needs Holly's help that is.

The rest of Holly's family is equally eccentric, from her Aunty Betty who shows affection by biting, to her Aunt Kuki who raised Holly after her mother's death and father's desertion and isn't impressed with the life she's chosen. There's more - including a cute man and his daughter, a mysterious writer, a soap star upstairs neighbour, frozen rats and a rabbit, but I'm running out of space!

What I will say is that I really enjoyed Monkey Love - it packs an awful lot into 300 pages. It's charming, funny, original and there's a twist that actually made me gasp (I thought I had it all figured out, you see). It's not quite as funny as it thinks it is (during Holly's stand-up routine, the audience was howling/bent double with laughter while I didn't even smile) but it's a really fun book and well worth a read.

The sequel, Monkey Star, is out in August.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Comeback Kiss by Lani Diane Rich

Posted by Keris on June 1, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Series | Permalink | Comments (3)

May 30, 2007 3:30 PM

AUTHOR INTERVIEW: Joanna Barrett

Joannabarrett Joanna Barrett's The Men's Guide To The Women's Bathroom is a great read, out now in the US and in the UK with Little Black Dress. A witty romp through ladies' bathroom secrets, it has generated a huge amount of buzz, and will be made into a movie by Hugh Jackman's production team. So without further ado, here's what Joanna had to say when we grabbed her for a chat...

Please describe your latest book in 15 words or fewer:

The Men’s Guide to the Women’s Bathroom reveals the secrets behind the door marked “Women.”

Where do you like to write your books (in bed, a coffee shop, an office)?

I write everywhere! In fact, I’m answering these questions right now in the waiting room of my dentist’s office! (Hey, if he’s going to make me wait, I may as well get some work done!) I think Tolstoy wrote War and Peace while waiting for the dentist.

While in the midst of a novel, I sit in front of my computer in a bathrobe. I often do not shower nor wash my hair. I eat takeout and stare into the refrigerator abyss for something sweet. I tend to ignore the phone and any semblance of a social life. It’s a lonely time. When I finish, I like to hear the hum of the printer as it prints out all those pages. Such a comforting feeling, indeed. P.S. Is this too much information? [Not at all! I know the feeling... - Diane]

Your favourite chick-lit book?

Pride and Prejudice, of course!

Your favourite female heroine (if different from above!), and why?

I like writing about women with moxie. I loved former Texas Governor Ann Richards. She was a larger than life character. She’s probably the only person in the world who could get away with telling George W. Bush that he was “Born with a silver foot in his mouth.”

What tips would you give to any of our readers who want to become writers?

It helps to heed the old adage “Write what you know.” Why waste time inventing a story when your story is right in front of you? Of course, the most important part of writing is to put it down on paper. It’s only an idea until it becomes words on a page! I think the best book on the subject is On Writing, by Stephen King. [I do too - Diane]

What are you reading at the moment?

I try to read a book per week. This keeps words flowing through my head in order to make my own writing better. One of my favorite books is A Widow for One Year, by John Irving.

What are you working on now? (If you can give us a hint!)

My second novel [Killing Carlton] is due out on Valentines Day, 2008. Its heroine, Madeline Piatro, is in a relationship with a beautiful and yet very bad man. When this man breaks her heart and steals her business idea, she hires a loveable mob hit man to get revenge. And what woman doesn’t secretly yearn to do this!

What question have you never been asked in an interview, but think you should have been? (Tell us the question and answer it too, if you like!)

(I’ve never been asked this question!) That is…I’ve never been asked the question of what I’ve never been asked. Ha! Get it!

Actually, I wish someone would ask me whether I collect real-life stories to use in my novels. I have a good answer for this: yes! While writing The Men’s Guide to the Women’s Bathroom, I used some phenomenal quotes I overheard in women’s bathrooms. Please email me at jobarrett@jobarrettbooks.com if you have a fantastic bathroom story of your own!

And check out Joanna's website at jobarrettbooks.com. Thanks Joanna!

Interview archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 30, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Interviews, Modern Fiction, Movie News, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 29, 2007 3:30 PM

BOOK REVIEW: My Latest Grievance by Elinor Lipman

Mylatest Frederica Hatch is the happy but precocious daughter of two university lecturers, brought up on campus at the small (although not very well-respected) Dewing College. She's always been doted upon by her loving parents, and treated as an equal rather than a child - so she's surprised to find her father's been hiding the secret that he was once married once before.

When Frederica turns 16, she finds out the truth as her dad's ex wife, the glamourous and incorrigible Laura Lee French gets a job at Dewing and proceeds to manipulate everyone around her...

This is the eighth of Elinor Lipman's novels, and definitely one of her best. As ever, Lipman is witty, stylish and unpredictable and I loved the turns this book unexpectedly took. It even made me cry towards the end! Lipman is simply a great writer, so despite the name, My Latest Grievance was nothing but a pleasure to read. (Boom boom!)

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Inn at Lake Devine by Elinor Lipman.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 29, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 28, 2007 4:50 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Marley & Me by John Grogan

I'm not sure whether it's because of the cute pup on the cover, but Marley & Me has the dubious honour of being the book I've most frequently picked up and put down again without buying of the past year (do you think they should make that a category in the next British Book Awards?). So when my sister-in-law offered me her copy, I almost bit her hand off.

John and Jenny are young and in love and decide to get a dog. Partly because they both have fond memories of their own dogs growing up and partly because they think it will be good practice for the children they hope to have. They pick Marley from a litter after meeting his sweet and placid mother. Apparently it's important to check out a dog's parentage before buying and the Grogans realise why when Marley's father rounds the house like a demented wild animal.

Reading up on the subject later, they discover that labrador retrievers are a particularly demented breed and Marley's a good example. He eats everything - all and any food, paychecks, a gold necklace - later, horribly, cat poo. He escapes one day and returns with a pair of knickers in his mouth. He's neurotic too - terrified of thunderstorms to the point of trying to dig his way through the wood and concrete of the garage (and succeeding to a point). Despite all his faults the Grogans love him. Until the babies come along and his destructive behaviour threatens their marriage.

Marley & Me isn't just about the dog or the family's relationship with a dog, it's also the story of the Grogans themselves. Babies, jobs, miscarriages, depression, loving and living. It's beautifully written, sometimes very funny and it even made me cry. Well worth waiting for.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this, try The Good Good Pig by Sy Montgomery

Posted by Keris on May 28, 2007 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (10)

May 25, 2007 1:17 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Steamed by Jessica Conant-Park and Susan Conant

Steamed Yes, I did read these the wrong way around! I enjoyed Simmer Down so much I wanted to go back and read the first in the culinary-mystery series by by Jessica Conant-Park and Susan Conant, Steamed.

Steamed takes place a little earlier in the same year as Simmer Down. Chloe Carter has just started at Social Work Graduate school and is having trouble getting to grips with the right social worker mentality especially as Naomi Campbell (not that one!), her boss at her work placement, is a bit too touchy-feely.

Chloe wouldn't mind finding a man to do a bit of touchy feely (snarf) with, but she's having no luck in the boyfriend department: first her fling with her downstairs neighbour ends badly, then she goes on a blind date with a pompous bore called Eric who takes her to a restaurant he's thinking of investing in... until he gets murdered halfway through their date, that is.

Having found the body, Chloe is both terribly shaken and desperate to know who the murderer was. Especially as the prime suspect is a rather tasty chef she wouldn't mind getting to know better... providing he's innocent, that is. However, for some reason Eric's parents have her down as his serious girlfriend, so there's that little mess to sort out too...

I thoroughly enjoyed Steamed, and just wish there were more in this series for me to read - they're addictive, fantastically escapist and well-written with a witty main character. And delicious recipes, too! What more could you want? (An interview with the authors, perhaps? Watch this space... we'll have one with you soon).

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Simmer Down by the same authors, or The Food of Love by Anthony Capella.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 25, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 24, 2007 3:52 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Pretty Little Liars by Sara Shepard

The cover of Sara Shepard's first novel, Pretty Little Liars, compares it to The O.C. It didn't remind me of that show, but it was reminiscent of a few other things: the Traveling Pants series, the Gossip Girls series, Donna Tartt's The Secret History, even the Twilight Zone. And it left me ... entertained but confused.

Aria, Emily, Spencer, Hanna and Ali are the best of friends in the same way many teenage girls are friends, i.e. they know each other's secrets and have a tendency to use them against each other. Particularly Ali, the leader of the pack. So when Ali disappears the girls are of course horrified, but also a little bit relieved. Understandably, they drift apart. Three years later they've all changed a lot and then they start getting messages signed by 'A'. Not only does the mysterious 'A' know their past secrets, he or she knows exactly what they're up to now too...

All the girls are horrified, but don't feel like they can tell anyone, least of all each other, because, well, Ali's dead, isn't she, and ghosts can't send texts, can they?

Pretty Little Liars is the kind of book I would have loved to have read in one sitting. It's utterly compelling and entertaining. The girls' problems aren't particularly original (one's bulimic, one's struggling with her sexuality, etc.), but it's very well-written and I did actually like most of the girls, despite their misdeeds.

My problem with it was the ending. I can't say much about it, obviously, but it's either hugely disappointing or brilliantly ballsy. I don't know. What I do know is that there will be a sequel and I will absolutely be reading it.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Secret Society Girl by Diana Peterfreund

Posted by Keris on May 24, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (34)

May 18, 2007 11:01 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Men's Guide to the Women's Bathroom by Jo Barrett

In Jo Barrett's debut novel, Themensguide former lawyer Claire St John has left New York after divorcing her cheating husband Charles. She's now back home in Austin, Texas to write her bestselling book. About what, she's not quite sure... Then she hits on a brilliant idea: she'll demystify women for men. She'll call her book The Men's Guide to the Women's Bathroom. After all, the bathroom (by which she means public toilets - thank goodness for American euphemisms as that wouldn't make a snappy title!) is where Claire has received all the best (sometimes drunken) advice and where women mull over some of their biggest decisions, from 'shall I keep this baby?' to 'do I want to sleep with him tonight?' (Yes I know, those should be the other way around...)

As well as re-adjusting to life in Austin, ignoring her mother's dietary advice and running up and down the road in a bikini (don't ask), Claire is also falling for Jake Armstrong, a sexy food entrepreneur. But should she? A few discussions in front of the mirrors under harsh florescent bathroom lighting should help her decide...

In a similar way to A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian, there's a book within a book here as we read both the novel and the book our heroine is creating. I enjoyed this book-within-book much more than the tractors one, though! Not only is Jo Barrett a smart, witty and talented author, but her heroine is too. The novel is full of great banter and memorable characters, and I'm sure it will translate brilliantly to the big screen.

Click here to read a sample chapter.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Time Off for Good Behavior by Lani Diane Rich.

PS: Do you prefer the American cover? I think it suits the book better.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 18, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: Lady Luck's Map of Vegas by Barbara Samuel

A good friend of mine has been telling me to read Barbara Samuel for ages. She insisted I’d love her books and, if Lady Luck’s Map of Vegas is anything to go by, she was right.

India is 40 with a well-established career, a boyfriend she sees only once a month, a bombshell of a mother and a schizophrenic twin sister who went off her meds and on the run when their father died a few months earlier. When her mother, Eldora, suggests a road trip both to try and find India’s sister, Gypsy, and because she’d like to return to Las Vegas where she lived for a time in the ‘60s, India flat out refuses. Her mother annoys the hell out of her and she can’t bear to spend that much time cooped up with her. Plus, she’s just discovered thiat she’s pregnant and she needs to work out how she fees and what she wants to do about that situation.

But eventually her mother wears her down and they set off together. India finds herself both enjoying the trip more than she expected and missing her boyfriend Jack more than she imagined. But he didn’t seem interested when she told him about the baby and she hasn’t managed to get hold of him since she’s been on the road. Plus her mother seems to be using the trip as a chance to tell India all sorts of secrets that India would really rather not know.

Lady Luck’s Map of Las Vegas is a book to wallow in. The women are gorgeous, sexy, confident and the men are (generally) gorgeous, sexy and powerful, but it’s no Jackie Collins-style bonkbuster. Samuel beautifully captures the emotions and conflict inherent in mother-daughter-sister relationships, along with writing evocatively about both New Mexico and Las Vegas. I never questioned a single moment of the book. It’s entirely believable and emotionally satisfying. Plus Jack is really hot.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Why Moms Are Weird by Pamela Ribon

Posted by Keris on May 18, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

May 16, 2007 11:02 AM

BOOK REVIEW: How To Be A Budget Fashionista by Kathryn Finney

I’m no fashionista, budget or otherwise. I can’t stand most of my clothes, have no idea what suits me and can never find anything to fit, so I wouldn’t have bothered reading this book if I hadn’t been reviewing it ... and that would have been a big mistake.

How to be a Budget Fashionista is full of good, common-sense and practical advice about finding your style, streamlining your wardrobe, shopping for new clothes and getting rid of old. It’s aimed at an American audience and so many of the links to shops, references to discounts and coupons are no good to anyone outside the US, but there is plenty of other information that Brits - or anyone interested in fashion or interested in becoming interested in fashion - can make good use of.

With chapters on budgeting (of course),finding your own personal style (this was a great one for me) and everything from undergarments to accessories, outlet stores to department stores, this book will arm you with everything you need to create both a basic wardrobe and a signature style and build on it as time goes on.

I’ll certainly be using its tips as I scrap the entire contents of my wardrobe (well, I say wardrobe, most of my clothes live in a pile in the corner of the room) and start from scratch, but even if you’re an established fashionista there should still be plenty here for you too.

How to be a Budget Fashionista manages to be practical and personable without being at all patronising. Recommended. (As is Finney's website, The Budget Fashionista.)

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Goddess Guide by Gisele Scanlon

Posted by Aigua Media on May 16, 2007 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (6)

May 15, 2007 5:48 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Baby Proof by Emily Giffin

Babyproof Emily Giffin is a great writer. We loved her previous books, Something Borrowed and Something Blue, which took the same story from two different angles. Baby Proof takes on a new story, with older protagonists (ooh) and a more weighty subject matter. Would I still enjoy it as much?

Baby Proof is about Claudia and Ben, a couple in their mid-thirties who are happily married and perfectly matched: they both want the same things out of life, which includes not having children. But then one day, Ben drops a bombshell - he wants a baby. Badly.

Within months, they're divorced and both have new people in their lives. But Claudia can't help wondering if she was right to let Ben go so easily. Was she just being stubborn, or is she really Baby Proof?

I really like Emily Giffin's writing style: it's intelligent and thoughtful without losing the reader's interest. I enjoyed the exploration of the issues surrounding having children and the fact that Claudia is a sympathetic character, even thought she doesn't want kids (not always the case in fiction!) However, I'm not sure if it really hit upon the main reason some women choose not to have children, which is simply that they don't want them (and that's okay). Maybe Giffin wanted to leave the story a bit more ambiguous - it's certainly very balanced.

What I really want to talk about is how the book ends, but I can't or I'd give too much away. Let's just say that I would have liked to have known a little more. I felt it was a *tad* of a cop out... But still a great read.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try A Piece of Normal by Sandi Kahn Shelton.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 15, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (2)

May 9, 2007 9:08 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Accidental It Girl by Libby Street

Libbyst I read the beginning of Libby Street's Accidental It Girl, and was hooked:

People hate me.

Some of them openly despise me.

I'd bet a couple dozen would cheer if I were maimed.

People. Hate. Me.

And why do people disapprove of our narrator/heroine Sadie Price so much?

Because she's a member of the paparazzi, of course.

When she's involved in a chase in which she totals her car and gets on the wrong side of Hollywood bad boy Ethan Wyatt, she thinks the damage is only physical. Wyatt decides to try to turn the tables on Sadie, and give her a taste of her own medicine...

I loved the theme of this book - it was interesting to read about a woman paparrazo for a start, and even more interesting to imagine what it would be like to be followed by the paps, and to learn about the tactics they use. I certainly think I'll be more sympathetic when I see grumpy-looking celeb shots in future (the photographer's probably just called them a bitch and insulted their loved ones, not to mention followed them for miles).

The outcome of the story was easy to predict, but I still enjoyed it a lot. (My one small complaint about the book is Sadie kept saying she was 'a paparazzi, when the word for one person is 'paparazzo'... but I'm a bit anal like that so don't let me put you off!)

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Fashion Babylon by Imogen Edwards-Jones and Anonymous.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 9, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

May 8, 2007 11:48 AM

BOOK REVIEW: More Than Love Letters by Rosy Thornton

As the title of Rosy Thornton’s debut would suggest, More Than Love Letters consists of letters, emails, newspaper articles, minutes of meetings, and more. I love Meg Cabot’s epistolary novels - including Boy Meets Girl - but could More Than Love Letters match up?

In a word, yes. Margaret Hayton is a primary school teacher saddled with what she thinks is an old person’s name. Her name helps her local MP, Richard Slater, assume she’s an interfering old biddy who feels compelled to write to him about everything from dog muck in the local park to VAT on sanitary protection to the EU Emissions Trading Directive. Once Richard realises that Margaret’s actually young - and gorgeous - he becomes more interested in both her and her causes.

Interspersed with the story of Margaret and Richard's burgeoning relationship is that of the girls living in the women’s refuge Margaret volunteers at (called, fantastically, Women of Ipswich Together Combating Homelessness or "WITCH"). Domestic violence, bereavement, immigration and asylum seeking all are touched upon in a genuinely thought-provoking way.

Like A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian, More Than Love Letters manages to balance serious issues with being the funniest book I’ve read for a while (since this one, in fact). I don’t quite know why it hasn’t been given the same attention as Marina Lewycka’s novel (actually, the chick lit cover - featuring, yes, butterflies - probably has something to do with it), but I highly recommend it!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian (non chick lit) or Rachel’s Holiday (chick lit)

Posted by Keris on May 8, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 7, 2007 2:00 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Not Buying It by Judith Levine

Notbuy Could you go a whole year without buying anything? No clothes, no books (argh!), no cinema tickets or meals out?

What would you do if you weren't part of the consumer economy and only bought the barest of essentials?

And how would other people react?

To answer all those questions and more, Judith Levine (along with her partner, Paul) took on a mammoth challenge: a year of Not Buying It.

Told in chronological order, I found it really interesting reading about Judith's fluctuating attitude to the project, her occasion slips and loopholes and the conclusions she and Paul drew by the end of the year. I find it hard to go a week without buying a book, so I particularly applaud her efforts in that respect, especially when she was trying to navigate the impoverished New York library system. Also interesting was the different issues the experiment brought up in the two areas of the country the author lives: Vermont and New York.

This book was more wide-ranging than I expected: I thought it would be a personal journey, but it looks at issues of world economics, environmental concerns and social responsibility and in this sense is enlightening, if a bit depressing at times! It's a very thought-provoking read, and I can't imagine that anyone who reads it will ever forget some of the lessons of the book. There really is something for every consumer here...

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Sweet and Low by Rich Cohen, or my co-ed Keris's Dollymix column Giving Up...

May 4, 2007 11:24 AM

BOOK REVIEW: A Piece of Normal by Sandi Kahn Shelton

Anormal I promised you I'd be reviewing this week's guest blogger's book, and now: I am! (Stay tuned on Monday for a chance to win a copy).

A Piece of Normal by Sandi Kahn Shelton is the story of Lily Brown, who's happy with her life. (She thinks). She works as an advice columnist for the local paper, lives alone with her four year old son Simon and is still on great terms with her eccentric ex-husband Teddy.

Then her sister Dana, who's been missing for the last ten years, turns up out of the blue, and her sudden appearance shakes up Lily's cosy existence more than either of them could have imagined...

I really enjoyed this book. It's well-written, the characters felt real to me, and I found it very witty (especially at the start of the book, before the emotional trauma begins!) I also found myself really identifying with Lily and getting incredibly angry with Dana, which has to be the sign of a good story. I couldn't believe some of the things Dana did! I wasn't sure how Shelton could make her even half-way sympathetic by the end of the book, but somehow she managed it.

I still cried at the end, though.

Rating: 4 out of 5 (although it's a 4.5 in my heart)

Like this? Try In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 4, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 2, 2007 2:54 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Ooh La La, Connie Pickles by Sabine Durrant

I enjoyed the first Connie Pickles book (Cross Your Heart, Connie Pickles) enough that I wanted to read this sequel, but my expectations weren’t incredibly high. The original book was fun enough, but it was a bit derivative and I didn’t feel like I got to know Connie all that well. Ooh La La changed all that.

Connie has arranged to go to Paris, ostensibly on a French exchange, but really to find her grandparents - her mother’s parents - Les Bellechasses. Plus it might help her forget that her best friend William (whom she realised she likes as more than a friend in the first book) is now dating Connie's irritating friend, Delilah. Connie has high hopes of the family she's being sent to stay with: Pascale and her two brothers, but the reality doesn't quite live up to the fantasy.

Pascale is more Goth than the sophisticated French teen Connie was expecting, Pascale's parents' marriage appears to be on the rocks, Delilah turns up in Paris on an exchange of her own, and things with Connie's grandparents don't quite go as planned either. But there's still Pascale's brother Philippe and they are in the most romantic city in the world after all...

With Ooh La La Connie Pickles, Connie really comes into her own. She's described as a teen Bridget Jones in the promotional blurb and I'd agree with that, but there's also a touch of the Adrian Mole's about her (and, yes, a bit of Georgia Nicolson). She's very funny and charming and sweet, as is this book.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try "...Startled by His Furry Shorts!" by Louise Rennison

Sabine Durrant also writes "grown-up" chick lit: Having It And Eating It & The Great Indoors

Posted by Keris on May 2, 2007 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Simmer Down by Jessica Conant-Park and Susan Conant

Simmerdown_2 I wasn't sure what to expect from this book, never having read a culinary-themed mystery before. Would it be a delicious blend of genres, or a recipe for disaster? And would I stop thinking in culinary metaphors? Time would tell...

Simmer Down is the story of social work grad student Chloe Carter, who's happily loved up with chef boyfriend Josh and looking forward to the opening night of Simmer, the new restaurant where Josh is about to start work.

But on New Year's Eve, at a local gallery's benefit to support the anti-harassment group Chloe works for, at which Josh is cooking, things spiral out of control. Not only does Chloe's ex, Sean turn up out of the blue, but so does Josh's less than pleasant previous girlfriend Hannah, who'd working for a rival restaurant chain. And when Oliver, one of the bosses of that rival group is later found murdered (bludgeoned to death by Josh's supersized food processor), the suspects start piling up...

Could it be the bitchy Hannah? Oliver's wife Dora? Or even his business partner Barry? Or maybe even an unknown business rival? No-one knows, but Chloe thinks that for the sake of Josh's future career, she should be the one to find out...

I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. I'm not generally a fan of genre fiction, and worried that this book's kitschy cover (like a modern-day Nancy Drew) could be an attempt to hide less-than-quality writing. But I read the first page, and loved it, and then the second... and before I knew it I'd devoured the whole book. This would be the perfect summer read, and was interesting, witty and unpredictable (with mouthwatering descriptions of food and even recipes for said food at the back of the book). I'll definitely look out for the next delicious novel by this mother-daughter writing team.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Faking It by Jennifer Crusie.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on May 2, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 27, 2007 6:13 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Divas Don't Knit by Gil McNeil

Divas We've already told you that 'knit lit' is hot news, and here's another example of the subgenre: Divas Don't Knit, by Gil McNeil. Jo Mackenzie is a widow with two young sons, and she's had enough of London.

Needing a change to get over the shock of losing her husband (even though he was about to leave her), she takes up her grandmother's invitation to move to the country and take over the running of the family's wool shop.

I'm a big fan of all Gil McNeil's novels: there's something so warm and comforting about them, and I was impressed with the way she made knitting - not really one of my personal passions - so interesting! Her characters were convincing and I enjoyed the storyline: not much seemed to happen, it was more about Jo moving forward over the course of about a year, but I was never bored.

However... McNeil's books could justifiably be accused of being a bit samey. This book is very like her first novel, The Only Boy For Me, which I loved. (Though the TV version I was less keen on, giving up halfway through). She then wrote a sequel to The Only Boy... and then another similar book, and now she's working on a sequel to Divas... There's always an eccentric family, a country setting, a single mother and a sophisticated potential love interest. There's definitely nothing new here, and it would be nice to see this writer step out of her comfort zone a little. But her characters are so likable and her plots so nicely (ha ha) woven, you couldn't hate this book if you tried.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on April 27, 2007 in Book related, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 25, 2007 10:35 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Women Who Think Too Much by Susan Nolen-Hoeksema

A while ago I asked my husband how he copes with the constant chatter in his head. He looked at me blankly. I gave him some examples of the arguing I do with myself, going round and round on the same topic and ended saying, “You know?” He didn’t know. He had no idea what I was talking about. It was only then that I realised it might not be normal, that perhaps it wasn’t something everyone does. And that’s when I discovered Dr Susan Nolen-Hoeksema’s Women Who Think Too Much.

Subtitled, "How to break free of over-thinking and reclaim your life", Women Who Think Too Much explains, with examples, exactly what overthinking is, why we do it (and it’s much more likely to be women than men who do) and how we can stop it. Chapters then focus on some specific circumstances that are likely to cause us to overthink - marriage, parenting, work, family, weight - using real life case studies.

This book was an absolute revelation to me. I suspected I wasn’t alone in overthinking, but seeing people’s spiralling thought processes written down was so comforting - I’m not barmy after all! I realise now that, though common, overthinking is not normal, healthy or useful and I’m taking steps to stop it (and it hasn’t even been that hard).

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Behind on the Laundry and Living off Chocolate by Lynette Allen

Posted by Keris on April 25, 2007 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (5)

April 24, 2007 1:18 PM

BOOK REVIEW: How To Sleep With a Movie Star by Kristin Harmel

I’ve had a bit of a bad run of books lately: boring characters, lifeless plots, unsatisfying endings, so I picked up How to Sleep With a Movie Star hoping it would be a nice chunk of escapism that would leave me with a smile on my face. I wasn't disappointed.

Claire Reilly, celebrity editor at Mod magazine (which is pretty similar to Ugly Betty’s Mode magazine), can’t understand why her layabout boyfriend Tom has lost interest in her. And writing an article singing the praises of one night stands doesn’t help her work it out. Sent to interview Hollywood megastar, Cole Brannon, Claire expects him to be a typical egomaniac, but he's not - he's down to earth, sweet and even more gorgeous in real life. And he seems interested in her, but he couldn’t be, could he?

When a backstabbing colleague finds out about Claire’s friendship with Cole, Claire's worried her boss will question her professionalism, despite the fact that she hasn’t actually done anything wrong. That doesn’t matter, of course, if someone’s got it in for you and soon - thanks to the evil colleague and not helped by Claire's own low self-esteem - Claire’s life is falling apart.

How to Sleep With a Movie is great fun. Cole Brannon is gorgeous (if a little too good to be true, but this is fantasy, so that’s okay). Claire is sweet (if a little wet, but that just makes the story even more Cinderella-ish) and the baddies are really, really bad (in a good way). I really enjoyed it - it would be perfect for the beach - and I’m looking forward to Kristin Harmel’s next book.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Year of Living Famously by Laura Caldwell

Posted by Keris on April 24, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 16, 2007 10:36 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill by Mark Bittner

I’ve wanted to read Mark Bittner’s The Wild Parrots of Telegraph Hill for years. The parrots appeared in one of my favourite novels of all time, Tales of the City, and I became fascinated with Telegraph Hill on a visit to San Francisco (but I didn’t see any parrots, sadly).

Subtitled “A love story ... with wings”, it’s the true story of Mark Bittner who, homeless, disillusioned and working a series of odd-jobs for a pittance, becomes interested in the flock of parrots he sees around his Telegraph Hill neighbourhood. Thinking that some connection with nature might add some meaning to his life, he starts feeding the birds and begins a relationship that both lasts for years and changes his life entirely.

The flock becomes so comfortable with Bittner that he is able to hand-feed them and even catch injured and sick birds and nurse them back to health. Like many of these kinds of books, his relationship with the birds also helps Mark come to terms with his own place in the world and aid him in the spiritual journey he’s been struggling with for 30-odd years.

I really enjoyed this book. Bittner conveys the distinct personalities of each bird entertainingly and movingly and it’s interesting learning about parrots in general. I didn’t think it was quite as successful in showing Bittner’s own feelings towards the birds. Often he’s a little dispassionate - possibly intentionally, he’s certainly uncomfortable with exposing himself so personally - and my favourite parts of the book were those in which his love of the birds (particularly Tupelo and Dogen) shone through.

That said, it is an enchanting book and now I really want to see the accompanying movie.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Good Good Pig by Sy Montgomery

Posted by Keris on April 16, 2007 in American Authors, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 11, 2007 10:30 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Let's Get Lost by Sarra Manning

Sarra Taking a break from the usual chick-lit titles, I thought I'd review something different. Okay, so it is chick-lit I suppose, only for youngsters. And before you roll your eyes at me and say, 'Hey - aren't you, like, twenty?!' then let me tell you that basically, we're all young at heart. And I'm twenty-two. So there.

And let's face it, it's hard to resist a beautifully-written crossover, which can only briefly describe Sarra Manning's Let's Get Lost. Author of other teen tales such as Guitar Girl and Pretty Things, Manning has a wonderful ability to portray teenage issues in a way that's compelling for teens and adults alike.

High-school bad girl Isabella is best known around school for her bad attitude and personal army of tag-along friends. With a father she finds relatively easy to control and a life of doing practically everything she wishes, Isabel is the girl that everyone else wants to be. However, haunting her daily is the death of her mother: something she feels responsible for and something which will, it seems, never leave her.

When she meets the seemingly wonderful - and not to mention older - Atticus Smith at a party, Isabel is immediately mesmerised. A university student, his freedom and contentment reaches out to Isabel the sad rebel who cannot get away from the fact that everyone knows about her mother's death.

Throughout the book, Isabel and Smith become closer, and sometimes not so close again, as Smith struggles to uncover just what makes Isabel who she is. With trouble brewing in school, and friends gradually beginning to grow apart, Smith is the only thing Isabel has to hold onto. But will everything stay the same?

Despite being aimed at teenagers, Let's Get Lost is a fabulous read for absolutely anyone, touching on the subject of bereavement and how it can affect everyone someone so young. A tale of young romance and a secretive girl almost lost in her many layers that will either make you yell out 'I told you so' or... well... cry.

Admittedly it's not the funniest book out there, but frankly? It doesn't need to be. Sharp writing and a moving tale is what makes this book unique. So I'd recommend it to anyone who is in need of something cute yet serious. Manning certainly has a gift for compelling writing and she demonstrates it beautifully throughout this book.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Boy Book by E Lockhart.

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on April 11, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (5)

April 6, 2007 2:17 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Carpe Demon by Julie Kenner

Have you ever wondered what Buffy will be doing in twenty or so years? Married, with kids? A soccer mom perhaps? Well, that’s the basic premise of Julie Kenner's Carpe Demon: Adventures of a Demon-Hunting Soccer Mom.

Kate Connor thought she’d put all things supernatural behind her when she retired from her position as a Hunter, but when a demon crashes a dinner party Kate’s throwing, she realises her demon-hunting days aren’t over. Despite having to take care of her two kids, run her household and help further her husband’s political career aspirations, Kate has to find whatever it is that’s attracted the demonic hordes to San Diablo.

With the assistance of her “alimentatore” (like a watcher) sent by the Vatican, Kate learns that there is some sort of relic held at the town’s cathedral and she has to reorganise her already-stuffed schedule to allow for relic research.

I’ve wanted to read this book for ages and it didn’t disappoint. Who wouldn't love a book with lines like:

The appetizers were in the oven, the table was set, the wine was breathing, and I was dragging a demon carcass across the kitchen floor...

Although I'm a Buffy fan and it’s entertaining to imagine this could be how the Buffster will end up, Kate’s a convincing character in her own right. Yes, I guessed the twist, but there were also a few entertaining red herrings. It’s exciting, funny, and well-written. I loved it.

You can read Kate's continuing adventures in California Demon and Demons are Forever.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Confessions of Supermom by Melanie Lynn Hauser

Posted by Keris on April 6, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (9)

April 5, 2007 4:29 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Fashion Babylon by Imogen Edwards-Jones and Anonymous

Fashbab There's something about seeing 'anonymous' on the cover of a book that makes my spine tingle with excitement... even if, as when I read Primary Colors, the author has already been unveiled. I think Imogen Edwards-Jones's mysterious collaborator will be a bit harder to track down, though: 'anonymous' is a collection of people throughout the fashion industry who provided her with gossip, information and scandal in order to make Fashion Babylon a must-read for anyone with even half an eye for fashion.

Which...um... isn't me.

So what would I make of the book?

Honestly? I thought it was fabulous! You don't have to be at all interested in fashion to find this story of a struggling British designer trying to make it big completely fascinating. In fact, the less you know about the way the fashion world works, the more this book will be a refreshing and often shocking read. I kept having to remind myself that, as the author testifies at the start of the book, everything detailed here really happened (and some of the stuff attributed to rumour probably did, too). Hotel Babylon is the third in Edwards-Jones's 'Babylon' series (after Hotel Babylon and Air Babylon) and I'd now love to read the other two and find out the goss from those industries, too!

But the book isn't just a dirt-spilling delight, there's a storyline too, and despite the faults of the designer (who admits she likes her models as skinny as possible, to make her clothes look good - couldn't possibly design FOR a woman's figure, could she?! - and her business partner, who's a little on the drug-addled side) I was hoping their collection would do well, and cheering them on to success. My only slight criticism is that it all got a little too shallow at times, but then I was right back to caring about the characters within a few paragraphs. A great read. [DS]

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Fashion Victim by Sam Baker

Fashion Lit archives

Posted by Aigua Media on April 5, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Fashion-Lit, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (4)

April 2, 2007 1:45 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Looking for Alaska by John Green

John Green’s Looking for Alaska is probably the book I’ve heard most consistent raves about over the last couple of years (Green’s second book, An Abundance of Katherines, would be in the top 5 too) so part of me was excited about reading it, but equally I expected to be disappointed. I wasn’t.

When Miles Hunter goes away to school he is looking for something to happen. Obsessed with the last words of historical figures, Miles wants to find the Great Perhaps (Francois Rabelais' last words were, "I go to seek a Great Perhaps".) At Culver Creek Boarding School Miles's roommate, nicknamed the Colonel, introduces him to the gorgeous and enigmatic (aren’t they always?) Alaska Young and Miles’s life takes an exiting turn.

The students of Culver Creek are into pranks, sneaking out to smoke and drink, and basically getting away with as much as they can without risk of expulsion. But, of course, when you live on the edge someone’s bound to fall off ...

John Green writes beautifully and I found that once I started reading Looking for Alaska I didn’t want to stop. The book is separated into “Before” (beginning “one hundred thirty six days before”) and “After”, which was a clever device - I found myself reading faster and faster as I got closer to whatever was going to happen (which you don’t expect me to tell you, do you?).

The characters aren’t exactly original - Miles is the self-conscious, friendless nerdy type, taken in hand by the strong and confident Colonel. As for Alaska - do all teenage boys want a narcissistic depressive who will tease them constantly and never let them know where they stand? Fiction suggests they do. Having said that, I was kind of fascinated by Alaska too, so maybe everyone loves a tragic heroine.

What really stood out for me - apart from the excellent writing - were the teachers (who appeared to be typical cliched authority figures, but were really no such thing), the abrasive but witty dialogue throughout and an inspired scene towards the end that had me laughing out loud.

Looking for Alaska certainly deserves all the accolades that have been heaped upon it and the included preview chapter of An Abundance of Katherines suggests that book does too.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Holes by Louis Sachar

Posted by Keris on April 2, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, More On Monday, Prize Winners, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (6)

March 30, 2007 3:29 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Taking The Plunge by Stacie Lewis

Aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaastaaaaaaaaaa_2 Taking The Plunge is an antidote to those happy, fluffy, "isn't planning a wedding a wonderful dream" type books that so often grace chick lit shelves. Not that there's anything wrong with those books per se, but they are escapism, aren't they? As anyone planning a wedding (and about five people I know currently are) will tell you, it's a stressful experience at the best of times.

And Stacie Lewis's debut novel certainly does not describe the best of times...

A touching and jaw-dropping account of one woman's pre-wedding calamities (that makes a great case for elopement!) this is the story of Bernie, an American in London who gets engaged to her British boyfriend and is deliriously happy about it - until she tells all four (yes) of her parents, and they start to make her life a misery...

And I really mean a misery: because both her parents are divorced and re-married, arguments and power struggles ensue about everything from who pays for what to the wording of the invitations. And because Bernie is in London, she doesn't have as much control over her big day as she'd like - is the venue really okay? Surely she doesn't have to have the cheapest dress available? And she can choose her own rabbi to perform the service, right? Everything becomes a struggle, and more than once Bernie and Sam think about eloping.

At times, all this tension is funny but as it becomes more dramatic it's just horribly sad that something supposed to be a happy event is hijacked by the selfish attitudes of the bride's parents, who are old enough to know better. What's really sad is that this is based heavily on Stacie Lewis's own experience (how she managed to forgive her mother for something that happens later on in the book, I don't know, although I do admire her for it).

The structure of the book is a little odd, as "Wedding Truths" are included at the beginning of each chapter. These good, although very cynical observations are made by the author (and this is where it's made clear that the events of the book really happened). I think I'd have preferred the whole book to have kept one narrative voice - or it would also have worked brilliantly (better?) as a memoir.

Saying that, I found this a compulsive and enjoyable read - a fast, easy read made even more intriguing by the fact that a lot of it is based on the author's real experiences, although if I wanted to get married, I'd think two or three (hundred) times about having a big wedding after reading Taking the Plunge. And I won't be passing it on to my stepsister or my engaged friends until after they've tied the knot!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Wedding Belles by Zoe Barnes. [-- That comp, though, is now closed - sorry!]

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 30, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 29, 2007 11:49 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Fabulous Mum's Handbook by Grace Saunders

I'm always a bit conflicted when faced with a book like Grace Saunders' The Fabulous Mum's Handbook. On the one hand I feel like it's going to be a load of rehashed magazine articles about "me time", not feeling guilty, and "just a bit of time management and you too can cook a 3 course meal/work a 40 hour week/ climb a mountain". On the other hand I, like a lot of mums, need all the help I can get.

The Fabulous Mum's Handbook does indeed contain chapters on me time, reclaiming intimacy with your other half (that's your partner, not your bottom half) and getting your fashion groove back. There are even some nice recipes (if rather labour-intensive - a recipe that begins "cut the pumpkin into really thick slices" is never going to wash with me).

Grace Saunders used to work on Elle magazine and you can tell. She's friendly, chatty and supportive, but occasionally drifts into talk of wafting around in floaty tops, dinner parties, glamorous shopping expeditions and other concepts that are completely alien to me.

Supported by Grace's own experiences and those of numerous other mums, plus a variety of "gurus" including nutritionist Jane Clarke, interior designer Amanda Smith and Little Angels' Dr Tanya Byron, this book is absolutely packed with useful information. I would have liked some photos or illustrations and for the text to be a bit more bite-sized (we harried mums have short attentions spans, you know) and it's all a little bit too fabulous for me, but it would certainly make a great pressie for a yummy mummy friend.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Goddess Guide by Gisele Scanlan or The Shops by India Knight

Posted by Keris on March 29, 2007 in British Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Alligators, Old Mink and New Money: One Woman's Adventures in Vintage Clothing by Alison Houtte and Melissa Houtte

Aaaaallig Alligators, Old Mink and New Money: One Woman's Adventures in Vintage Clothing by Alison Houtte and Melissa Houtte is a memoir/fashion advice book based on Alison's experiences as a model and later owner of a vintage clothes shop in Brooklyn, Hooti couture.

Each chapter begins with a recollection of a much-loved vintage clothing item, and its importance in Alison's life. The chapters then progress in a mostly chronological order, detailing Alison's journey from a clothes-obsessed teen to a model in Germany, Paris and New York and her later adventures opening a shop. It's a treat for any fan of vintage clothing (which I am, big time) and I loved reading Alison's memories of customising clothes and finding bargainous second-hand finds. It made me want to take a tour of my local charity shops (or even better, her local charity shops) post-haste. But I did have a little problem with this book...

Perhaps naively, despite the title I hadn't actually realised that Alison had no problem with buying, selling and indeed wearing vintage fur coats and alligator skin bags, which is not something I want to do - or read about. I read these sections of the book thinking "no, no, no" and hoping they'd be over quickly! But that's just a small part of an overall very enjoyable read. I also understand that not everyone shares my views on fur, and some think that vintage fur/skin is acceptable as the animal has already died (but...yuk). So although I give the author 0 out of 5 for her stance on animal products, I didn't let that tarnish my reading expereince too much (as I said, it is a very small part of the book!) - we don't all have to think the same, after all.

Moving on, the appendices at the back of the book, which include what to look out for in vintage shops/markets, and the best internet resources, are packed with detail and very useful (although understandably American-oriented, this being an American book).

All in all a good read (just don't tell PETA I said so).

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try It's Vintage, Darling! By Christa Weil

Fashion lit archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 29, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Fashion-Lit, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 28, 2007 1:11 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Year of Living Famously by Laura Caldwell

I’ve heard a lot of good things about Laura Caldwell so I was really excited to read this … but I was slightly disappointed. I really enjoyed it, don’t get me wrong, but it was missing a spark.

It’s the story of unsuccessful fashion designer Kyra who falls in love with and marries a relatively unknown Irish actor who then becomes incredibly famous. The celebrity lifestyle - stalkers, paparazzi, staff - completely freaks her out and I think that was partly my problem. Kyra complains about everything. When they move to a big house she complains that it’s too big. When she starts selling her designs she whinges that she’s only successful because of who her husband is. I kept wanting to tell her to get over herself.

All that aside, it’s very well-written with some lovely characters (although Declan, the husband, wasn’t sexy enough for my liking) and towards the end it was gripping enough that I actually missed a train while reading it! I’ll definitely be reading more of Laura Caldwell’s books.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Good In Bed by Jennifer Weiner

Posted by Keris on March 28, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 27, 2007 8:58 AM

BOOK REVIEW: White Tigress by Jade Lee

I have to admit, I opened Jade Lee’s White Tigress - the first book in Lee’s Tigress series - with a fair amount of trepidation. Set in 1897, an English woman is kidnapped and subsquently purchased by a Chinese man who wants to use her yin to help him achieve immortality? Well, it’s just not the kind of thing I read. But I kept an open mind and I’m so glad I did.

Lydia Smith arrives early in Shangai with the intention of surprising her fiance Maxwell. Instead she is kidnapped and drugged and wakes up shackled to the bed in a brothel. Purchased by Ru Shan, she has no idea what he wants with her, but he promises it’s not her virginity. Instead he needs her yin - and in case you don’t know what that is (I didn’t) it’s her, um, feminine essence. He needs it because he has too much yang (I bet you can guess what that is) and he needs to be balanced in order to reach immortality. Yes, I know.

White Tigress is an entertaining, exciting and erotic book. I was worried it was going to be about a white woman being corrupted by a foreign “other”, but it’s much more interesting than that. Yes, you do need to suspend disbelief, but Lee writes so compellingly that it’s not as difficult as you might think. Even when faced with lines like, “Let the yin come, Li Dee. Open your plum flower!” “But the river flows through your cinnabar cave. I must have access to that.” And that’s without even mentioning his “jade dragon”. But the world Lee has created is so convincing that I didn’t laugh (much).

Having said that, the ending was a little far-fetched even for me, but it was also the only way it really could have ended. White Tigress reminded me of a lot of other books (Mills & Boon, Shogun, Danielle Steel, The Celestine Prophesy) while, at the same time, being like nothing I’ve ever read before. Recommended.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Taming the Beast by Emily Maguire

Posted by Keris on March 27, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 21, 2007 10:29 AM

BOOK REVIEW: How To Be Popular by Meg Cabot

Gracious, Meg Cabot's prolific, isn't she? We can barely keep up with all her releases. How To Be Popular is her latest stand-alone young adult book and it's a good one.

Subtitled 'when you're a social reject like me, Steph L.' it's the story of Steph Landry who became a household name in her town after spilling a drink on a classmate's skirt. No, really. Expressions like "Don't pull a Steph Landry" caught the imagination of the town's population and Steph's afraid she'll never live it down.

That is until she finds a book that she hopes will teach her how to be popular and starts putting its tips into action. Of course, the popular kids in her school wonder what's going on with her, as do her (unpopular) friends, Jason and Becca. And when you consider that Steph's grandfather is marrying Jason's grandmother and her mother is no longer speaking to either the bride or groom and the family business may fail and Steph can't seem to stop spying on Jason doing press-ups in the nude ... well ... Steph's in danger of "pulling a Steph Landry" herself.

As we've come to expect (if not demand!) from Meg Cabot, How To Be Popular is a very sweet and funny book. It's set in a small town, which Cabot manages to convey as brilliantly as she does New York in the Princess Diaries books. Some lovely characters, an entertaining plot and a totally satisfying ending - what more could you ask for? Fabulous.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Boyfriend List by E Lockhart

Posted by Keris on March 21, 2007 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 20, 2007 5:41 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers by Xiaolu Guo

Aneng_2 As it featured on the Orange longlist, released yesterday, I thought a review of A Concise Chinese-English Dictionary for Lovers by Xiaolu Guo would be timely!

It's the story of Zhang, known as 'Z', who comes to London from a small Chinese town, in order to improve her English and learn about the culture. But she doesn't find the UK all she expected - people are unfriendly, it's cold and she's lonely. Then she meets a man and the two quickly become lovers, and then move in together - the result of a misunderstanding. (Z says she wants to see his house, he says "be my guest" and she takes it literally)... It begins in hilariously broken English ("sorry of my English" says a note at the beginning of the book) which improves as the story progresses...

The book is chronologically told, divided into months telling the story of Z's year in the UK (and later Europe). It's narrated by Z, but as if she's talking to her lover, and it shows the misunderstandings that pervade their relationship. Each chapter begins with a definition, hence the title, and these are very revealing, often having a deeper or double meaning.

Only a Chinese writer could pull off writing in broken English without seeming xenophobic/racist, and that makes it OK to laugh at the silly misunderstandings caused by Z's lack of knowledge. The writer presumably had the same problems learning English herself, but clearly she's got the hang of it now: this is Xiaolu Guo's first book in English. It makes you realise how difficult English is, and I enjoyed all the cross-cultural references a lot. The book itself is very good, although it starts off very funny and becomes a lot more melancholy as Z loses her innocence (both socially and sexually). I didn't quite feel that this dark mood at the end of the book was entirely necessary - I wasn't sure Z enjoyed much of her time over here at all, and that seemed a shame for such a likeable character (as well as from a British tourism perspective!)

But it's definitely an unusual and charming read, and I'd recommend it.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Empress Orchid by Anchee Min.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 20, 2007 in Book related, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Prize Winners, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 19, 2007 9:00 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Heat by Bill Buford

Heat is, according to the subtitle, 'an amateur's adventures as a kitchen slave, line cook, pasta-maker, and apprentice to a Dante-quoting butcher in Tuscany'. And for a quick precis of the book, you couldn't really ask for a better description. What the subtitle leaves out, however, is that the book also covers the author's disenchantment with his day job, his love affair with most things edible, and pedantic obsessions with points of food history.

The first 50 pages of Heat were dull, dull, dull. Buford makes friends with and begins to work for Manhattan celebrity chef Mario Batali, hero of the Food Network and the man behind a restaurant empire headed up by the legendary Babbo's. The problem is, the beginning of the book is in essence a potted history of Batali's relationship with food, and while the relevance of this is made evident later, at first I was left wondering why I was reading the biography of a chef instead of the memoirs of the author.

Once Buford takes over the narration of the book, however, things improve rapidly. We follow him as he learns to hear and smell the kitchen, and cook by instinct. We watch his progress through the kitchen, see him falling in love with food as a professional, not an amateur, and travel with him as his growing passion for Italian food takes him on several trips to the country, making tortelli in Emilia-Romagna, and butchering in Chianti.

Buford is a likeable narrator, and the descriptions of the food he eats and learns to cook border on the erotic. Erotic, not pornographic. This is food writing by a sensualist who considers the textures, colours, and smells of food to be as important as the flavour, and whose total immersion in the food he's cooking becomes a love affair in itself.

But Heat is not just a book about food. It's a book about consistency, and history, about the relationship between where people live and the food they eat, the way they choose to cook it, and the importance it has in their lives. In amongst the sentiment - which comes across as natural, not forced - there are a number of academic asides about the history and progress of Italian food, making Heat a book that makes you hungry, feeds your brain, and fills you with a sense of continuity and history. Brilliant, once the Batali biography is out of the way.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try: The Nasty Bits, by Anthony Bourdain

Posted by Aigua Media on March 19, 2007 in American Authors, Memoirs, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 16, 2007 11:13 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Secret Life of a Slummy Mummy

Aslummum Anyone who's read Fiona Neill's Slummy Mummy column in the Times will have been looking forward to the publication of The Secret Life of a Slummy Mummy, her novelisation of the column. But newcomers will enjoy it, too. It's narrated by Lucy Sweeney, our eponymous heroine, whose housekeeping and organisation skills are on the lax, not to say slovenly side. Her husband despairs of her, as she turns up at the school gates in her pyjamas, locks herself out of the house, runs out of petrol at inconvenient times and loses her credit card, only to locate it later in the fridge - after it's been cancelled!

With three young sons to look after, Lucy knows she has to pull herself together, especially as the presence of Yummy Mummy and Alpha Mummy at the school gate always make her feel bad about herself. Then Sexy Domesticated Dad joins the PTA, and Lucy starts to enjoy the school run.

But it's just some harmless flirting... isn't it?

I really liked the tone of the book, but I have to say it did put me off having three young children! It very well conveys the stresses this puts on the primary caregiver, and on a marriage. I also couldn't believe one woman could be so disorganised - being a rather anally retentive control freak myself I was squirming! I couldn't help of course wondering how much all of Lucy's expereinces were based on the writer's own life - for her own sake, I hope it's exaggerated quite a bit!

The novel ended a bit abruptly, and tied things up in a little too much of a hurry for me, becoming a tad too farcical... but it was still a very good read and I look forward to whatever Fiona Neill writes next.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Hens Dancing by Raffaella Barker; The Only Boy For Me by Gil McNeil.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 16, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 15, 2007 2:38 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Persepolis by Marjane Satrapi

Not long ago, if you’d told me I would find myself gripped by a graphic novel memoir of a childhood in Iran, I would’ve been, well, surprised to say the least. But I was utterly gripped by Marjane Satrapi’s Persepolis.

For the majority of Marjane’s childhood Iran was at war with Iraq. She saw many friends and family members arrested, injured and killed, both in the war and by the fundamentalist Iranian regime. At the age of 14 her parents sent her to Austria alone to finish her education, but, desperately unhappy, she got into more and more trouble, which culminated in her living on the streets.

I found Persepolis absolutely fascinating. I didn’t know very much about Iran before, but as I’m around the same age as Marjane and remember news reports of the war during my own childhood, to read such a book and understand what someone my age was dealing with on a day to day basis at a time when all I had to worry about was whether my leg warmers matched is sobering.

Marjane was brave in a way we’d struggle to comprehend. Stopped by the police for running because “When you run your behind makes movements that are ... obscene”, Marjane responded, “Well then don’t look at my ass!” Her subsequent comment that “I yelled so loudly they didn’t even arrest me” highlights the kind of world she was living in.

I’m a graphic novel novice and I found Persepolis much harder work than Marisa Acocella Marchetto’s Cancer Vixen but it certainly rewards the attention. An amazing book.

N.B. This edition includes two volumes: The Story of a Childhood and The Story of a Return

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Cancer Vixen by Marisa Acocella Marchetto or Reading Lolita in Tehran by Azar Nafisi

Posted by Keris on March 15, 2007 in Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 14, 2007 5:12 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Hot and Bothered by Annie Downey

Anniedowney Annie Downey is an intelligent, funny writer with a healthy dose of quirk. She regularly contributes to alternative parenting magazine Hip Mama and Hot and Bothered is her first novel.

Her heroine is a single mother of a young girl and teenage boy and she's dealing with looking after them plus the fallout of a messy divorce and her own lack of motivation and enthusiasm for life. She's cynical, funny, rather ditsy and somewhat lacking in self-belief...

and very charming.

The book has a chronological narrative but is divided into chapters with different themes, all of which begin "A week..." ("...from hell" and "...of merriment" are two headers). Each chapter is then divided into short (ranging from one sentence to a page and a half) paragraphs, making this a snappy, focused read with very little waffle. It's also an often unpredictable read, and I found many moments in the book hilarious - such as when the main character goes for a walk, meets a woman outside her house, invents that she's a professional dog walker and lands herself a new job walking the woman's dog and cleaning her house...! It's such a funny scene, and by no means the only thing I laughed out loud at - but the book is very warm and contains real emotion, too.

It was also just a tad odd - the main character (whose name we don't learn 'til the end of the book, so I'm afraid it hasn't stuck in my brain! I know, I'm getting old) is obsessed with pink clogs, but aren't clogs the least comfortable footwear ever? And she makes frequent references to being small and midget-like, but it turns out she's the same height as the lovely Keris... who as we know is in perfect proportion - ish. Maybe the author feels a little height disadvantaged, I don't know... Also, the main character's best friend Kip is more than a bit mean, but I came to like her by the end of the book!

Definitely not your usual mummy/mommy lit - this story's a good bit more complicated, and a little bit more quirky but it's a very fun read I found hard to put down.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Only Boy for Me by Gil McNeil.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 14, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 13, 2007 12:34 PM

BOOK REVIEW: On Becoming Fearless by Arianna Huffington

Arianna Huffington is the creator of the hugely successful online news and opinion blog, Huffington Post. She claims to have been inspired to write this book by her two daughters, to encourage them to lead fearless lives.

Each chapter focusses on being fearless in a different area of your life, such as parenting, love, money, work, health, even changing the world.

Huffington has a very friendly and accessible writing style and illuminates the text with many stories from her own fearless life. Further insight is given between the chapters by a number of famous women including Nora Ephron and Diane Keaton.

Apart from Huffington's own experience, there isn't much here that you probably haven't already read in various women's magazines, but it's inspiring to read it all in the one place and as written by a woman who has experienced everything she is writing about. I surprised myself by finding the chapter about her political career the most interesting - despite knowing how women are treated in politics, it's still shocking and disturbing to read it first hand.

Interesting and inspiring.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try I Feel Bad About My Neck by Nora Ephron or Think Pink by Lisa Clark

Posted by Keris on March 13, 2007 in Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development | Permalink | Comments (2)

March 12, 2007 3:48 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Sweet and Low by Rich Cohen

Asweetandlow_1 Rich Cohen's maternal grandfather was Ben Eisenstadt. That name might not ring a bell, but his most popular invention certainly will: Sweet n' Low, those popular pink packets of sugar substitute sent everywhere from England to Israel from a packing plant on a small Brooklyn street. The story of an artificial sweetener isn't necessarily the makings of a great story, but the clue to Sweet and Low's appeal is the subtitle: A Family Story. Taking in disinherited relatives (Cohen's side of the family), mafia connections, strange relatives (a lot of them!) and young Ben's abandonment in the big city as a young teenager, this book is a personal look at how big business affects a family - and tears it apart.

This book wasn't really what I expected, though. I thought it would be, frankly, a slimmer volume, all about Rich Cohen's family and nothing else. It's actually more in-depth and far less lightweight than I would have guessed (don't you hate it when you have to concentrate?!) I learned about everything from accountancy practices (kosher and dodgy - I'm ready to launder money now... not really, FBI!) as well as the history of Brooklyn since its early settlement. Oh yes, and the history of sugar and its alternatives is covered in some detail too. The book is well-researched, very thorough and very well-written.

However, at times I would have preferred a more family-centric chronicle of events, with some of Cohen's research weaved in and worn a little more lightly, rather than entire chapters of history. But I guess that would be a completely different book. I was hooked nonetheless, and there's no doubt it's an interesting, informative and personal (if not always personal enough) read. And if it doesn't make you want to run out and do your own taste test of different alternatives to sugar... well, maybe that's just me!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Nasty Bits by Anthony Bourdain.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on March 12, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Memoirs, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 8, 2007 2:48 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Adultery Club by Tess Stimson

In the beginning of the year we got excited about previews of The Adultery Club being given away with Red magazine. Tempted by the teaser - and the ubiquitous tube and rail advertising - I decided to put to one side my contempt for all things adulterous and read the book with an open mind.

Rather than a stereotypical novel with a narrator of sorts, The Adultery Club is narrated by the three main characters - Mal, the wife; Nicholas, the cheating husband; and Sara, the mistress - each taking it in turns to pick up the narrative thread from their point of view.

I would have expected a book written in this fashion to be equally sympathetic to all characters, and judging by the reviews on Amazon, many readers found that to be the case. But while I felt more sympathy for Nicholas than I expected to, this was mostly due to the character of Sara, who was painted as a scheming harlot who did everything she could to ensnare a man she knew to be the married father of small children, persevering after refusals she could tell were difficult to utter.

Despite hating one of the characters, however, I didn't hate the book. Rather, I enjoyed it. A lot. Stimson is a talented writer who really gets inside the heads of her characters, meaning we do too. While this made me dislike Sara, it gave me sympathy for Nicholas, as the reader follows his moral waverings - while he is weak in the face of Sara's relentless pursuit, he initially and repeatedly tries to do the right thing.

As a portrait of the suffering that betrayal causes for all involved, The Adultery Club is a worthy three-dimensional read. It's also an involving book, and one that will stick with you once you've read the final pages. Anyone considering embarking on an affair would be well-advised to pick it up, as it eloquently describes the heartache, loneliness, and self-hatred that betrayal causes for all involved - even the innocent parties.

Rating: 4 out of 5
Liked this? Try: Getting Rid of Matthew, by Jane Fallon

Posted by Aigua Media on March 8, 2007 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

March 7, 2007 10:32 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Motherland by Maria Beaumont

I must admit I wasn’t particularly thrilled at the prospect of Maria Beaumont’s Motherland. Despite being an obsessed mother myself, I’m a bit bored by all the Mummy Lit crowding the shelves, but Motherland is different.

Fran used to have a fab career as a voiceover artist. She used to be madly in love with her husband, Richard. She used to be cool, calm and in control. And then she had kids. Frightened half to death at the idea of going back to work, cutting herself off from her two best friends and alienating her husband - plus the small matter of drinking so much that she forgets to pick her kids up from school - Fran hits rock bottom and then drags herself back up again.

Fran is a lovely character. Sarcastic, facetious, bitter and depressed, she still manages to be funny and endearing. Her descent into depression is written so sympathetically that I found myself feeling anxious on her behalf. The bitchy mothers at Fran’s children’s school are charicatures, but intentionally so (one has a wart on her nose, for heaven’s sake) and, in my experience, those type of mothers are all the same anyway.

Beaumont does something clever with the chapter numbers too (I know, how clever can you be with chapter numbers? But trust me, I was very impressed when I (finally) noticed) and it only added to the thrill of watching Fran get her life back.

Despite it being the kind of story that’s been done many times before, Beaumont’s writing and humour make Motherland a hugely satisfying and enjoyable read.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy by Polly Williams

Posted by Keris on March 7, 2007 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 2, 2007 11:13 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Bitter Sweets by Roopa Farooki

The premise of Roopa Farooki’s debut novel, Bitter Sweets, is that deception can permeate through generations until your entire family life is based on secrets and lies.

Beginning when 13-year-old Henna's father marries her off to rich Ricky Karim by convincing her to pretend to be someone she’s not (17, cultured, educated), the deception colours Ricky and Henna's life and that of their daugher, Shona, who, with her boyfriend Parvez, elopes to London - where Ricky is leading a secret double life. And it doesn’t end there, Shona and Parvez’s sons also hide their true selves from their parents, with dire results.

Some family members know (or think they know) the secrets of the others, but subsequently every one of them finds out that there are more family secrets than they imagined - all of which need to be brought out into the light.

Bitter Sweets is a lovely, warm, gripping novel. I didn’t want to put it down and found myself thinking about it when I was doing other things. I liked and felt for all the characters (except those I wasn’t supposed to) and wanted it all to work out for them.

It was a little predictable and in some places there were too many coincidences and convenient occurrences, but it didn’t spoil my enjoyment of the book - it’s fiction after all - and the tidying of all the loose ends made it a very satisfying read.

Given that the plot spans more than fifty years, I didn’t really feel a sense of the passing of time - I felt like any of the book could have been set at any time - but that’s a minor gripe.

I was planning to give it 5, but only a couple of days after finishing it, it has already started to fade from my memory, so it’ll have to be a 4; but this is an original, entertaining, gripping and satisfying novel. Recommended.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try A Boy of Good Breeding by Miriam Toews

Posted by Keris on March 2, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 27, 2007 1:48 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Having a Lovely Time by Jenny Eclair

Having a Lovely Time is comedienne Jenny Eclair’s second novel. The action starts in South London and follows two couples, Guy and Alice Jamieson, and Joe Dobson and his younger girlfriend Nina.

Guy is planning to leave his wife and troublesome children as they no longer fit his executive image. Joe, on the other hand, has already left his wife, Hils, for Nina after Nina became pregnant.

But Nina isn’t happy. She feels like a drudge who no longer goes out with her friends and just spends all her time wiping up baby sick, so when Joe books a holiday to Tuscany she is delighted. Until she finds out that Joe’s two children are coming too. The Jamiesons are on the same holiday and what follows is an intricately weaved plot of love, lies and betrayal.

This award winning comic delivers some truly memorable characters, from Alice who no longer bothers shaving her legs to Hils the accidental novelist. All are well written and believable characters. Some are likeable and some are thoroughly unpleasant but all are intriguing and this book will keep you gripped to the last page.

Having a lovely time? Read this book and you will be. [Nicola Pedley]

Rating: 4/5

Like this? Try Plotting for Beginners by Sue Hepworth and Jane Linfoot

Posted by Keris on February 27, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 26, 2007 10:25 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Cooking Up a Storm by Jenna Bayley-Burke

I enjoyed Jenna Bayley-Burke’s debut Just One Spark and I enjoyed her second book, Cooking Up a Storm, even more. Another Mills & Boon Modern Romance Extra, it’s not quite as graphic as Just One Spark - at least, I don’t think so, I might just have recovered from the surprise of sex in a M&B book.

Lauren Brody runs her own catering business and doesn’t have time for a relationship. Plus she’s been badly hurt in the past. Having moved from New York to Seattle following a promotion, Cameron Price isn’t in a relationship place either. Plus he can’t get past his finding his former fiance in bed with his best friend. When Lauren is hired to cater Cameron’s launch party and Cameron’s boss assumes they’re in a relationship, they soon realise a fake relationship could be a real business boost for both of them. But of course, they’re incredibly attracted to each other so the relationship doesn’t stay fake for long.

Yes, it’s a well-worn plot, but what lifts this book is the characterisation. Like Jennifer Crusie’s Anyone But You, you know what’s going to happen (and very little does) but you’re happy to go along with it.

Lauren’s a great character - strong, independent, intelligent and sexy, while still remaining human and funny, and Cameron’s a lovely hero too. There weren’t any forced/contrived plot points and for the most part everyone behaved just as I would like them to.

An undemanding, but a rewarding (and, yes ... stimulating) read.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Anyone But You by Jennifer Crusie

Posted by Keris on February 26, 2007 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (4)

February 22, 2007 12:55 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Cents & Sensibilities by Maggie Alderson

Despite having such a dubious title, Maggie Alderson surprised me with this great story! I’ve not read any of her previous work, so didn’t know what to expect – the cover suggested undemanding fluffy chick lit, and the title suggested maybe a contemporary working on Jane Austen. I had very low expectations, but what I got was a well-written, funny, clever story – not just of a girl, but of a family to which I long to belong!

The book begins a little alarmingly with enough luxury brand names to make you dread what’s coming. Thankfully, it soon turns out to be deliberate - as a ‘fluff correspondent’ journalist, Stella knows her luxury stuff. From her first night out with Jay, the predictable misconception of a chick lit novel is twisted on its head – every time you think you know what’s coming, the plot side-shifts somewhere new.

I was mentally slapping the author for the blatant Roman Holiday take off – until she made the exact same reference herself, and simply endeared me to Stella further.

The romance that is central to the plot is never straightforward – ostensibly, the book is about Stella’s struggle to manage her relationship with jet set playboy Jay. But the undertones of the other relationships going on around her with her bed buddy, her co-journalist and her ‘semi-step-brother’ all smoulder under the surface, providing intriguing and dynamic sub-plots, teasing you with the possibilities of what may happen a little further along.

The secondary theme of the book is the relationship between Stella and her father Ham. The family set up is completely ludicrous – and yet charming and utterly believable, and against your better judgement you can’t help but love it, and feel a part of it.

The book left me with a warm happy glow, and a jealous longing for the ridiculous family to be my own. It’s not going to set the literary world on fire, but suffice to say it has a space on my bookshelf – and I’ve read it twice already. [Laura Hitchcock]

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Three Day Rule by Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees

Posted by Keris on February 22, 2007 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 21, 2007 4:42 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Raising the Roof by Jane Wenham-Jones

Raising the Roof, Jane Wenham-Jones first novel, is about Cari Carrington, the daughter of slightly crazy parents and ex-wife of Martin, the man who cut up her Barclaycard.

Cari has three problems; she’s single, she’s jobless and she’s fat. At least that’s what Martin told her during their last blazing row. But don’t worry; Cari has a solution to at least two of those problems.

Nigel her horny friend soon becomes her Nigel her horny business partner when they buy a run down property to do up for a profit. Unfortunately Nigel fails to tell Cari exactly how much work needs to be done and she soon sees her investment running away from her so she has to take a more hands on approach than she’d intended. Working on a building site had never been in her get rich quick plan.

And then there’s the ingenious shelf diet which will not only make her thin but will also make her millions when she reveals it to the world, if only she could stick to it.

As for being single, there’s always Ben, but he’s married so that’s probably not a good idea …

But behind the chick lit book lies something more serious. Cari’s sister Juliette has a nervous breakdown and both Cari and her mother are obviously fragile. The subject is handled sensitively and draws on Ms Wenham-Jones’s own experience of mental illness within her family.

I found this a really enjoyable read that was only enhanced by the serious subjects. The majority of the book is written in light-hearted chick lit style but every so often we get a glimpse of something deeper, the things which lie beneath the characters’ surface and that really lifts this book above a lot of others. [Nicola Pedley]

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Undomestic Goddess by Sophie Kinsella

Posted by Keris on February 21, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 20, 2007 4:23 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Growing Up Again by Catriona McCloud

One night Janie Lawson decides to leave her husband, Ludo. The next morning she wakes up back in 1981 aged 15. So far, so Jenny Colgan’s Do You Remember the First Time, but Catriona McCloud’s Growing Up Again is a very different, and much better, book.

Janie can’t work out why she’s gone back in time, but she thinks it might be to avert some future disasters, so she sets about trying to make some changes, starting with stopping Lady Diana Spencer from marrying Prince Charles. But Janie doesn’t limit herself to national and international events, she wants to change things for her parents too, to give them a better future.

Where the Jenny Colgan book was more about Flora adjusting to life as a teenager again and trying to work out whether to accept a proposal (back in the real world), Growing Up Again has a much bigger theme. Family, responsibility, addiction, even mental health. But that doesn’t mean it’s a serious book. I found it almost unputdownable and it made me laugh and cry.

Janie isn’t, on the surface, a sympathetic character. She can’t truly explain why she wants to leave her apparently sweet husband and she’s bossy and dogmatic, but I loved her and was rooting for her throughout. Her parents are lovely characters, her friend Danny is hilarious and charming (while not being a traditional hero) and McCloud writes beautifully. This sentence, simple as it is, made me gasp in recognition:

The kitchen was the same as ever, neat but dirty, and when he opened the fridge to get milk for our tea I could see dried spills on the shelves and a layer of onion skins and tomato stalks in the bottom drawer, but not much in the way of food beyond a tub of Stork and half a cabbage face down on a dinner plate.

I mean the Stork and half-cabbage reminded me of my old family fridge, not that my fridge is so grotty. Ahem.

My only complaint about this book is the ending. Towards the end I couldn’t read fast enough and found myself marvelling at how McCloud had managed to make something so far-fetched so believable and thrilling, but then, as I approached the final page I got a creeping sense that I wasn’t going to like what I found. And I was right. In fact, I shouted, “Noooo!” Then again, that may be personal preference; some readers may think it was the only possible way it could end. Anyway, it meant that I’m giving it a 4 instead of a 5, but I can’t wait to see what Catriona McCloud comes up with next. Brilliant.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Me vs Me by Sarah Mlynowski

Posted by Keris on February 20, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (2)

February 19, 2007 2:43 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Shopaholic & Baby by Sophie Kinsella

It's here! Okay, well it was released a few weeks ago, but...it's finally here! Sophie Kinsella's latest addition to her bestselling Shopaholic series, Shopaholic & Baby, is finally gracing my shelf with its gorgeous pastel cover.

I have to admit, The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic was one of the first chick-lit books I read, and I loved it so much that I went out the next day and bought the other three books, all at once. (Yep, I 'did a Becky'.) So when this was finally released, I rushed into Waterstones as though my pants were on fire, and once again, whipped out my card. It's been a long wait. But was it really worth it?

Former financial journalist and TV presenter Becky Brandon and her company-owning PR-genius husband Luke, are expecting a baby. Whilst Luke is at work and business meetings, Becky is left alone to shop - constantly. Of course, having a baby practically the best excuse EVER to scour the stores. And why not? With so much to buy in preparation for the new arrival, Becky's in a dreamworld yet again.

With the Brandons having just landed their dream house with his'n'hers nurseries, what more could a young, pregnant and financially stable (for once) shopaholic want?

Oh, that's simple - the must-have, best of the best, celebrity obstetrician. A client list full of A-listers only helps to make Becky more determined to get onto Venetia Carter's books, even if it DOES mean dumping the favoured family doctor.

However, when the perfect Venetia turns out to be Luke's ex-girlfriend from university, Becky suddenly has a change of heart...especially when Luke starts acting...well, distant.

Kinsella has a magically witty way with words which make the entire series blatantly unputdownable. Personally, I'm a bit confused by this. Becky is far too dense to even be considered realistic, yet strangely, it works. Despite being pregnant, her priorities lie in shopping sprees on clothing and numerous prams for the baby rather than the essentials. I've always found Becky on the thick side but it gets a bit far-fetched in this book. Though with Kinsella's talent to create hilarious situations and brilliant supporting characters (such as Suze and the wonderful Danny - Danny's back! Yay!) such a sin can be forgiven.

Also included are the amusing letters between each chapter that are a guaranteed giggle.

The downsides? There aren't many, aside from the fact that practically everyone looked/seemed/sounded/was 'taken aback' at some point in this book which made me want to put my fist through a wall. I did wonder how the overuse of this description wasn't picked up by an editor. I guess that's just a personal thing, though. And whilst the story is new, the concept of the other books still remains; Becky shops, Becky spends, something goes wrong, Becky does something unselfish for once and the day is saved. Again, it works; but cannot work forever.

Whereas this book wasn't as funny or addictive as the others in the series, it still made a great read and is most certainly a must for ANYONE who is a fan of the Shopaholic books. And the cover is just adorable!

So go on...buy it! After all, it'd be an investment...

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Little Lady Agency by Hester Browne

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on February 19, 2007 in New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Sophie Kinsella | Permalink | Comments (5)

February 15, 2007 2:16 PM

BOOK REVIEW: "... Startled by His Furry Shorts!" by Louise Rennison

After Maureen Dowd derided chick lit by erroneously quoting from a Louise Rennison book, I remembered that I’d bought the latest in the Georgia Nicolson series and hadn’t yet read it.. ‘... Startled by His Furry Shorts!’ is the seventh book in the series that began with Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging (the book mocked by Dowd).

Georgia Nicolson is a teen girl (I’m not sure how old she supposed to be, but I don’t think she’s aged since the first book) with a bunch of best mates (the Ace Gang), a gaggle of potential boyfriends (Robbie the Sex God, Masimo the Luuurve God, and Dave the Laugh), a couple of enemies (Wet Lindsay and Astonishingly Dim Monica), a demented little sister, eccentric parents and a few mad cats.

Very little happens in any of these books, except that Georgia and friends mess about like loons, pretend to be Vikings, fancy boys and have a laugh. When I read Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging, I thought it had been written by a "real" teenage girl; it has that mix of naivety, eccentricity, petulance and good humour. And the books are really very funny (in a mad way). For example, this book begins:

I can’t believe I am once more on the rack of romance.
And also in the oven of love.
And possibly on my way to the bakery of pain.
And maybe even going to stop along the way to get a little cake at the cake shop of agony.
Shut up, brain. Shut up.

If you laugh at the above, then you’ll love these books. If you think "What on earth is she going on about?" then you probably won’t. But why not give them a try anyway? You never know, you might reconnect with your inner daft teenager.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Princess Diaries: After Eight by Meg Cabot

Posted by Keris on February 15, 2007 in British Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (6)

February 9, 2007 10:33 AM

The Friday Night Knitting Club by Kate Jacobs

We’ve had a few books about book clubs and now knitting clubs are popping up on chick lit shelves everywhere, as Diane mentioned a while ago. Kate Jacobs’ The Friday Night Knitting Club has already secured a movie deal (with Julia Roberts, no less).

It’s the charming story of Georgia Walker - single mother to a mixed-race daughter, Dakota, and proprietor of a knitting shop in Manhattan’s Upper West Side. Encouraged by Georgia’s mentor, Anita, and assistant, Peri, local women begin to gather in the shop on a Friday evening to chat, knit and eat treats cooked by 12-year-old Dakota ... and The Friday Night Knitting Club is born.

But then Dakota’s father James reappears on the scene wanting a relationship not only with Dakota, but with Georgia too. Georgia’s former best friend, Cat, also turns up, unsatisfied with her glamorous life. Everything seems to be changing and Georgia’s not sure she’s ready.

Woven in (or should I say knitted in?) with Georgia’s story are the stories of the other members of the group: Anita is embarking on her first romance since the death of her beloved husband; pompous academic Darwin is struggling to complete a dissertation while her husband works on the other side of the country; filmmaker Lucie is undertaking single motherhood.

The women are not given equal time - this is certainly Georgia’s book - but they are all interesting and it might be fun for at least a couple of the women to get their own books in the future. The author’s habit of using description in place of names - "the white haired woman said," "The TV producer left the office door open" - drove me to distraction, but that might bother anyone else.

The Friday Night Knitting Club is a lovely, warm, evocative, book that also made me cry. It was perhaps all a bit too perfect and neat (I wasn’t entirely convinced by James’s reasons for staying away, but, at the same time, it was certainly possible and, if true,* believably painful). And, yes, it did make me want to try knitting (again).

* Yes, I know it’s not true, it’s a novel, but you know what I mean. Don’t you?

Rating: 4 out of 5 (I’d like to give it 4.5, but since I can’t it’ll have to be 4)

Like this? Try Love Walked In by Marisa de los Santos

Posted by Keris on February 9, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

February 1, 2007 2:06 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Second Wives Club by Jane Moore

Modern marriage is more disposable than institution, according to any sociologist looking to get press clippings on a slow news day. Papers fill their lifestyle sections with treatises on 'starter marriages', divorce rates are on the up, and compound families of step-everyones have fast become the norm in modern-day Britain.

Or so they said last year. This year's press has been peppered with the odd piece on falling divorce rates, the acceptance of marriage as a meaningful declaration of life-long love, and the pursuit of happiness amongst our feckless youth. Which could cause problems for Jane Moore, whose Second Wives Club is due to be published in paperback this April.

At least, it could if the book weren't a fun read.

The Second Wives Club opens with the dramatic crashing of a dream wedding by the - horror! - first wife who had been told her ex was taking the kiddiewinks to the park for the day, not dressing them up in their Sunday best and making them play pageboys.

Ghastly. But every cloud has a silver lining, and for second bride Alison, that silver lining comes when a guest at the wedding invites her to join the second wives club, a place where trophy wives, former mistresses, and self-effacing childcarers join together to bitch about the horrors of being a second wife and all of the social politics such a position entails.

All of the club's members have relationship troubles of sorts, with children from the first marriage, difficult starter wives, and - naturally - the husbands themselves. During their meetings they conspire to fix these troubles, with varying degrees of morality and success.

I'd like to end the review like this: Essentially this is a light-hearted romp, with enough drama to keep you absorbed. The characters are all interesting people, although not all are likeable.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Being honest, however, I have to end it like this: The ~~only~~ two downsides for me were thus: first, reading the book instilled me with an overwhelming sense of deja vu. I know I've not read the book before, but I have. I knew the characters, I knew the essence of the plot turns, if not the details, and I knew exactly how it was all going to work out in the end. And not in the cosy familiar sense I get with most chick-lit, where the familiarity breeds enjoyment, but in the predictable dull sense. Second, (and I know this is very -ist of me) I can't quite bring myself to enjoy a novel where two of the main characters actively pursued married men and took them from their wives and children. It goes against everything I'm made of.

Rating: 2 out of 5

Like this? Try Getting Rid of Matthew by Jane Fallon

Posted by Aigua Media on February 1, 2007 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 30, 2007 1:48 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Surf Wax & Vodka Jelly by Lucy Clarke

With a lot of twenty-something chick-lit fans at (or having already finished) university, it's about time we had some, well, 'student-lit.' Whilst not all students are part of the hall-dwelling, binge drinking stereotype that seems to have encased us, there's still a lot to university that's highly entertaining. Cue Lucy Clarke's fabulous novel, Surf Wax and Vodka Jelly.

What if Bridget Jones chronicled her first year at uni? It'd probably read a bit like this.

Josie Williams is a university fresher. Thrown into the midst of student life after the nervy preparation period, Josie is all geared up for her first year at uni. But will student life meet her expectations? Placed in a flat in South Halls with a group of strangers, Josie is forced to adhere to usual student etiquette and make friends. After all, these are the people she'll be living with for a whole year...

With her bubbly best friend Tam, the overtly chauvinist Matt, the introverted Suniti and dreamboat Ben, it seems that all is going as planned, despite the mysterious absences of Suniti. As Josie battles the deadlines, drama and general misdemeanours of her overexcited, mismatched and often drunken bunch of flatmates, her love life is also coming into play. But it could be a dangerous game, what with her love rivals in the flat upstairs in the form of a glamorous, kitten-heeled, bitchy twosome set on getting their own way.

Despite the scathing comments and embarrassing moments as Josie signs up for the Surf Club in the hope of ensnaring Ben, Josie is managing to fit in rather well. Her life as a fresher is perking up, but will downing bottles of wine before an essay deadline with Tam set her on the right path? Will her great life full of parties and new friends stay that way?

Written by former Cardiff university student Clarke, Surf Wax follows Josie on a journey through her first year as a fresher in diary form. Quite frankly, it’s a hard one to put down, whether you’ve been a student yourself or have never set foot in a university. Okay, so it’s not as funny as it’s made out to be, but there are some amusing moments. Whilst reading this, I couldn’t help but feel it had a lot more potential. Bridget Jones this is not, but many agree that it’s a downright accurate portrayal of student life. And Josie is cute to boot!

So, you all now know what to spend your next loan instalment on…

[Danielle Symonds-Yemm] Rating: 4 out of 5 Like this? Try English as a Second Language by Megan Crane

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on January 30, 2007 in Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 23, 2007 2:21 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Getting Rid of Matthew by Jane Fallon

Jane Fallon’s first novel, Getting Rid of Matthew, has a great premise: Helen has been Matthew’s mistress for four years, but when he finally leaves his wife and two daughters and moves in with her, Helen finds it’s not what she wanted after all. But Matthew has given up a lot to be with Helen and he’s not about to give her up. Unless she gives him some very good reasons to, that is.

So Helen sets about a campaign to drive Matthew away: amongst other things, she stops shaving her legs, slums about the house in her scruff, stops having sex with him and befriends his ex-wife (under a pseudonym).

Helen isn’t a particularly likeable character - after four years of begging Matthew to leave his wife, she decides she doesn’t want him within days - but Jane Fallon skillfully made me like her anyway and I really wanted everything to work out for her. She makes a lot of mistakes, but she accepts them and wants to do the best, not just for herself but for (almost) everyone around her.

This is a very funny and entertaining book with some lovely characters. There’s nothing particularly new here - bitchy work colleagues, snotty step-children, feisty best friend - but it seems ‘modern’ somehow, not tired or old hat at all. Jane Fallon was a producer of This Life and Teachers and the same sensibility is evident in her first novel. She doesn’t take things too seriously, but manages to get to the emotional crux of the matter without mawkishness.

I only have one criticism: there is a major plot twist given away in the back cover blurb. If I hadn’t known in advance what was going to happen, it would have been much more entertaining, so poo to Penguin for spoiling my fun!

I found Getting Rid of Matthew hard to put down and I can’t wait for Jane Fallon’s next book. A major new chick lit* talent!

* Though Jane describes Getting Rid of Matthew as “hen lit” or “old boiler lit.”

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy** by Polly Williams

** with apologies to Getting Rid of Matthew's Helen, who hates the term "yummy mummy"!

Posted by Keris on January 23, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

January 22, 2007 9:51 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Coven of One by Kate Bousfield

Coven of One is Kate Bousfield's first novel and, to be honest, not the kind of book I’d usually read, but I was hooked from the beginning.

When hedgewitch Dorcas Fleming completes her training, she is shocked to be sent south, to Pendartha, where witches can still be tried and sentenced to death. When she gets there she finds some support in the local population, particularly her neighbour, Jubal, but she also finds that there is a curse on the village and that is the reason they requested a witch. But lifting curses is surely beyond Dorcas’s capabilities ... or is it?

I really enjoyed Coven of One. I found myself constantly awestruck at this world Kate Bousfield has created which, while supernatural, was at the same time wholly believable and convincing. My only criticism is that it wasn’t quite exciting enough - I never actually felt worried for the characters like I do reading a Harry Potter book, for example - but that’s possibly because I felt totally safe in the author’s hands and believed all along that everything would be okay.

Dorcas is an interesting and original character - well, she is a witch, after all - strong, accomplished, confident, but at the same time with enough vulnerability and relateability to have the reader rooting for her from the beginning.

Coven of One is an accomplished first novel, at the end of which (or should I say “witch” ... no, I shouldn’t) we’re promised more. I can’t wait.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Bitten by Kelley Armstrong

Posted by Keris on January 22, 2007 in British Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 19, 2007 12:43 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Complicated Kindness by Miriam Toews

Acomp I loved Miriam Toews's earlier novel, A Boy of Good Breeding, so I was excited to pick up A Complicated Kindness, which I'd heard a lot of great things about, although I had no idea of the storyline.

It's set in a Mennonite community in Canada in (I think) the early '80s (dates are deliberately sketchy). Mennonites are a religious sect of the 'are they a cult or aren't they?' variety and as Toews was brought up Mennonite I can only assume she is drawing heavily on her own experience with this story of a disillusioned sixteen-year old girl, fed up of her isolated life in a dead-end town in which all forms of fun and self-expression are heavily frowned-upon.

To add to main character Nomi's sense of alienation, her mother and sister ("the better looking half of our family") are missing, her best friend is bed-bound in hospital and she feels disconnected from her boyfriend. Plus she's failing in school and her only prospect for a future career seems to be snapping necks at the local chicken factory...

Cheery, no?

I was surprised by how different this was to her earlier book - it's a much bleaker story and although it has first-person narration instead of third-person as in A Boy... I felt much less connected to Nomi than the characters in that book. I was also disappointed with the way not much seemed to change, and nothing really happens!

It's all pretty gloomy, although intelligently written with great use of language and some wonderful moments of black humour. I also totally believed in the characters and admired the way Miriam Toews created narrative tension out of very little action! But I felt let down by the book's ending.

I wanted to love this book, but instead I just liked and admired it, in a slightly detached way.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try A Boy of Good Breeding by Miriam Toews.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 19, 2007 in Book related, Modern Fiction, Prize Winners, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 18, 2007 11:30 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Cause Celeb by Helen Fielding

Causecleb_1

Helen Fielding put her pre-novelist experience working for Comic Relief to good use by writing a book about aid work in Africa (don't worry, it's not as worthy as it sounds!) Cause Celeb was her debut novel, and never captured the public imagination in the same way Bridget did, but it still boasts the same humour and charm as her Miss Jones novels...

Rosie Richardson is tired of her Daniel Cleaver-ish TV presenter boyfriend and so makes the dramatic decision to chuck it all and head off to work in Africa. But after four years helping to keep a refugee camp going, disaster strikes when drought and famine hit the region. She has no choice but to return to London, and try to use her former 'connections' in television to put together a star-studded celebrity charity appeal...

Although perhaps a little far-fetched at times, this storyline certianly works better than Olivia Joules, where I didn't feel a chick-lit girly girl and a terorist plot blended at all well...

Here, Fielding's knowledge of the subject shines through, and she has some serious points to make, which she does in a very non-zealous way, meaning the reader really learns something. This is a book with much more to say than Bridget Jones's Diary, which is perhaps why it didn't do as well! But I think all Fielding fans will enjoy it as it's witty and very well-written, and has a touch of romance too - something of a hidden gem, in fact.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Sundowners by Lesley Lokko

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 18, 2007 in Book related, British Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 12, 2007 3:34 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Meri Sugarman, Psycho Queen by M. Apostilina

Meris M. Apostilina's Meri Sugarman, Psycho Queen is another book that changed its name as it flew over the Atlantic: in America, it was called Hazing Meri Sugarman. But the story is the same: when Cindy Bixby moves away to university, she thinks that joining her mum's old sorority will be the perfect way for her to make new friends and to bond with her mother.

But although she knows getting into the sorority will be tough, she has no idea HOW tough, as the clearly psychotic sorority president Meri puts the wannabe sisters through their paces in a series of humiliating, outrageous and at times illegal dares, challenges and stunts. Cindy's torn between wanting to impress Meri, and wanting to challenge her supremacy, until Meri takes her humiliation a step too far, and Cindy vows to bring her down...

This is a really fun and very fast, well-written, snappily-paced novel which even manages to fit in a nice romantic sub-plot but it's only fair to warn you that the storyline is pretty farcical. Although the heroine is a university student, it reads much more like YA than grown-up chick lit. Which isn't to say it's not enjoyable all the same...

I wasn't that keen on the way Cindy kept putting herself down, but she grew in confidence by the end of the novel. What I did really like was the way everything was pretty nicely tied up in the last chapters - and yet there are sequels already on release in the US. I hate it when authors wimp out on a proper ending to make for the sequel (Louise Rennison!) so I'm glad this is a good read in its own right.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Secret Society Girl by Diana Peterfreund.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 12, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (6)

January 11, 2007 6:40 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Dating Amy by Amy DeZellar

Datingamy Amy DeZellar's Dating Amy is a memoir of, as the subtitle says, "50 True Confessions of a serial dater".

Amy went on fifty dates (although not with fifty men!) and chronicled her adventures on her website, datingamy.com. Her goal was to get some paid writing work, maybe publish a book... and perhaps even find love, too.

And we know it worked at least partly, as here's the book of the experience, which she adapted from her dating blog...

Amy goes out with men she meets via internet dating sites, meets at parties or bars, and men her friends set her up with. Sometimes I wasn't clear why she was going on a second date with some of these men, as the first one had gone so horribly! It all makes for interesting reading though. (Could that be why...?)

The book looks at some perennial dating questions: is it nicer for a man to say he doesn't want to date you again after just one date - or better to ignore you forever more? Why are some men so great on paper and a let-down in real life? And are men really all about sex and women all about commitment?

There's nothing hugely original about the concept, we've had a raft of similar books, both fiction and non-fiction, about serial daters. But this book is an enjoyable addition to the genre, and although I sometimes felt frustrated with Amy's choice of man (!) and the fact that she often said she couldn't get any paid writing work (had she sent out freelance ideas? Anything? We never find out) I'm still glad she wrote this book, and even more glad Amy dated all those men... so no-one else has to!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Year of Yes by Maria Headley.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 11, 2007 in American Authors, Book Websites, Book related, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 8, 2007 10:04 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Venus Envy by Shannon McKelden

Shannon McKelden's witty debut, Venus Envy, finds Venus/Aphrodite/goddess of love in the Seattle area, having to matchmake mortals to appease her father (that'd be Zeus). She's horrified to find her latest challenge is Rachel, who is so damaged by previous disastrous relationships that she's sworn off men for life and fills her time with good works instead. Luckily for Rachel, Luke - a hunky local firefighter - has taken a shine to her and isn't willing to take no for an answer. With Luke already interested and Venus there to help, what could possibly go wrong?

Well, plenty, actually. Venus is entirely self-absorbed and her only interest is getting back to Mount Olympus (where, apparently, the shopping's better). At least, that is, to begin with. When Venus finds herself becoming both lonely and emotionally involved with Rachel's life, things start to go pear-shaped for both of them.

I really enjoyed Venus Envy. Venus is a great character - I imagined her as a younger Samantha Jones from Sex and the City - and Luke is a very sexy hero, if a little too good to be true. I loved Venus's suggestion that Rachel learn about Luke's potential failings by interviewing his exes and the interviews themselves were entertaining and very funny.

The story is quirky and a bit of a fairytale without being too far-fetched (considering the subject matter). I could have done with both Rachel and her best friend Hannah's character being fleshed out a little more. I felt for Rachel, but I didn't feeeeel for her, if you know what I mean, but all in all and impressive and amusing first novel. I look forward to reading more by Shannon McKelden.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Girl's Guide to Witchcraft by Mindy Klasky

Posted by Keris on January 8, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (2)

January 5, 2007 4:21 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Did I Wake You? by Beth Lapides

Bethlap Haiku have always appealed to me. With their rigid structure (seventeen syllables, in lines of 5/7/5) and sweet but meaningful observations, they're a true and somewhat under-appreciated artform.

Did I Wake You? by Beth Lapides is a collection of haiku about modern life. I enjoyed the juxtaposition of an old Japanese poetic form with modern subjects like terrorism, lip gloss and the cost of fertility treatments, written in English.

It's an inventive and brilliant idea. But does it work?

Yeah, it does! Not all of the haiku are genius - some are nice but don't have much point and there were some I just didn't get, but there are a lot of really entertaining poems here , and several which I found really meaningful. I had to admire Lapides's skill at conveying so much, so well, in so few words. It even compelled me to write my own haiku. But I'm not sure they'll ever be seeing the light of day - it's a lot harder than it looks.

Of course I related to this one:

Stopped searching Google

Started searching my soul. It

said get back online.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Mixed by Angela Nissel.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 5, 2007 in American Authors, Book related, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: After Eight by Meg Cabot

You know how much I love Meg Cabot and her Princess Diaries series in particular. The only disappointing thing about book seven was that there wasn’t quite enough of Mia’s boyfriend Michael. Well that’s rectified in After Eight - there’s plenty of Michael, but it seems Cabot’s setting up a love triangle with J P (the boy formerly known as The Boy Who Hates It When They Put Corn in the Chilli). Intriguing.

After Eight is full of the attributes we’ve come to expect from Meg Cabot books - humour, charm, pop culture references. It’s incredibly easy to read, which, despite Cabot’s famed prolificness (I didn’t think that was a real word, but apparently it is) suggests it wasn’t at all easy to write and she’s bravely tackled teen sex again, despite losing fans when she did it (rather than Did It) in the second book in the All American Girl series, Ready Or Not. Which reminds me of one slightly disconcerting thing about After Eight. Mia is worried that she's not a high enough achiever to keep Michael interested. She says:

The worst part is, being a princess isn’t even something I DID. I mean, it’s not like I saved the President from being shot like Samantha Madison [the heroine of Cabot’s All American Girl series], or found all those missing kids with my psychic powers like Jessica Mastriani [the heroine of Cabot’s Missing series] ...

I can’t decide whether that’s just outrageous and unacceptable self-promotion or an admirable bit of cheek. What do you think?

Despite that blip, I loved this book. I really wish I could read them a little bit more slowly though, there are only two left!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Boy Book by E Lockhart

Posted by Keris on January 5, 2007 in American Authors, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (11)

January 4, 2007 5:51 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Everyman's Rules for Scientific Living by Carrie Tiffany

Carriet Carrie Tiffany's first book didn't catch my eye when it first came out: a weird title, a train on the front, a story about agriculture in Australia...? Didn't really seem that interesting! But then it got some great reviews and was shortlisted for the Orange Prize, and I almost always love Orange Prize-shortlisted books... so I thought I'd give it a try. And I'm very glad I did.

Everyman's Rules for Scientific Living is the story of Jean, a seamstress with no family who joins the Better Farming Train, which travels round Western Australia at the end of World War One, educating farmers on new methods to increase productivity. She falls in love with the taciturn and meticulous scientist Robert and together they disembark to start a new life as crop farmers in a particularly isolated and barren part of the country.

Of course there wouldn't be a story if things are turned out wonderfully - they don't. The efficacy of Robert's new farming methods, which he's converted most of the town to, are drawn into question and Jean and his relationship is severely tested. The novel flicks between past and present day as we learn more about the main character's backgrounds and despite the hardships the novel covers, it's carried along at a light, breezy pace, propelled by a wry humour and peppered with moments of unbearable poignancy.

The book ends a bit suddenly, and I think it could have been longer and a bit more detailed at times. It could have continued for at least two or three more chapters! But it's still a great read as is, and one where you definitely shouldn't let the odd title put you off... Quirky, clever and educational, this is a great read.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try A Short History of Tractors in Ukrainian by Marina Lewczykca.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on January 4, 2007 in Book related, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

January 3, 2007 6:48 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Girl's Guide to Witchcraft by Mindy Klasky

Mindy Klasky’s debut novel is the first in a series about Jane Madison, a librarian who discovers a secret room full of magical books in her new home. Inspired by an apparently successful love spell and encouraged by her “familiar,” Neko, and watcher, David, she decides to learn about witchcraft.

And if that wasn’t enough to be dealing with, Jane also learns that the mother she thought died when she was a baby isn’t dead after all and wants to get to know her.

I really enjoyed Girl’s Guide to Witchcraft. Jane is a believable and entertaining character and I enjoyed the twist on the chick lit staple of the gay best friend (Jane’s familiar, Neko, is a cat turned homosexual human!).

Jane is a little naive, falling for her Imaginary Boyfriend (a man she’s liked from afar) and believing him to be her real boyfriend after only two dates, but that’s a minor quibble. With a cast of eccentric and interesting characters along with a fun premise, Girl’s Guide to Witchcraft is an intriguing debut.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Enchanted Inc by Shanna Swendson

Posted by Keris on January 3, 2007 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Series, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (2)

December 29, 2006 12:00 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Light on Snow by Anita Shreve

Anita Shreve's Light on Snow is a great read for this time of year, as it's set before Christmas in the snowy surrounds of a tiny and remote New Hampshire town, where 12 year old Nicky and her dad relocated to three years earlier following a family tragedy. Out walking through the snow one day, they hear a strange sound, and go to investigate. To their surprise, they find a newborn baby abandoned in this isolated part of the woods. For a while, they are brought closer by caring for the baby- taking her to the hospital, looking after her temporarily... but then the baby is found a foster home and father and daughter go back to their separate grief-filled lives.

Until the mother of the baby tracks them down...

I loved this novel. It's atmospheric, moving and perfectly conveys the sorrow of grief. I also love its realism- there's real hope by the end of the novel, but this springs organically from the story- there's no surprise happy ending, nothing that seems too unlikely. In short, it's like real life. The way it's written, in spare, clear prose suited the story and stopped it being too sentimental. Shreve also effortlessly captured the voice of a 12-year old girl and should be studied by anyone who wants to do the same!

Gripping, poignant and hopeful, it's not lighthearted, but there is light at the end of the tunnel.

Recommended.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try All He Ever Wanted by Anita Shreve; Notes on a Scandal by Zoe Heller.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 29, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 27, 2006 12:49 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Bad Mother’s Handbook by Kate Long

Badm Having picked up The Bad Mother's Handbook for the train, I didn’t think I’d enjoy it – I’m not a mother at all, let alone a bad one, and my views on children can be easily summed up by the old joke ‘I love children, but I couldn’t eat a whole one’. The title is deceptive though, and surprisingly I found I couldn’t put down this heart-warming tale of three women, three generations of the same family, living together in chaos.

The story is told from the points of view of Karen, a harried mother, her mixed up seventeen year old daughter Charlotte, and her terminally-confused elderly Nan. Both Nan and Charlotte live with Karen and seem to conspire to make her life hell. Charlotte is going through her own traumas as she discovers sex and the almost inevitable consequences of betrayal and babies, while Nan is living in the past remembering her own childhood.

The different styles of writing used for each viewpoint give the story a very personal feel and makes you feel very involved, even if you don’t necessarily identify with any of the characters. The sections describing Nan’s childhood have a real feel of saga story about them, and you could imagine everyone groaning as an aged aunt started off with ‘when I were young I had to walk 10 miles to school in my bare feet…’ for the tenth time that evening.

There’s an interesting extra level to the story, behind the domesticity and usual love-interest when Karen discovers that Nan isn’t really her mother and goes in search of the woman who is. She finds out some things that makes her belatedly grateful for what she has, and give you hope that things might work out in the end. It’s not always a happy read, and I think it could be a bit close to the bone for anyone involved in a similar situation, but by the end of the book everything has turned out for the best. This is mainly through the arrival of Charlotte’s friend, who is more like a guardian angel than a real teenage boy – and everything is tied up very neatly all of a sudden, through a slightly unlikely intervention. I’m not sure if the end felt a bit rushed because I was keen to find out what happened, or whether it really did wind up a little too quickly but despite a ‘one year later’ style final chapter, I was left with a number of questions.

But all in all a good read, and one that makes you think past the title. [Emma Tazewell].

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Confessions of a Grown Up by Stephanie Calman; Mama Lama Ding Dong by Ayun Halliday.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 27, 2006 in Book related, British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 22, 2006 9:40 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Sloppy Firsts by Megan McCafferty

Megan McCafferty’s debut novel received perhaps unwanted publicity earlier this year when it was one of the books embroiled in the Kaavya Viswanathan plagiarism scandal.

It’s about Jessica Darling, who is devastated when her best friend Hope moves away, leaving her with just the “Clueless Crew” (Manda, Bridget and Sara) for company. With her mother caught up in the plans for Jessica’s sister’s wedding and her father unable to communicate except through Jessica’s running, she feels alone in the world. Until, that is, druggie dropout Marcus Flutie starts talking to her. Not only is he the bad influence of all bad influences, he was best friends with Hope’s brother who died of an overdose, so Jessica can’t even confide in Hope about him.

When a new girl at the school turns out not to be what she seemed and Jessica starts writing for the school newspaper, she starts to work out what it is she needs from her friends, family and herself.

Taking place over a full year in Jessica’s life, Sloppy Firsts will take you back to high school and remind you how happy you are not to be there anymore. Jessica’s intelligent and angst-ridden voice is entertaining, funny and painful by turn. I found myself reading quicker and quicker to find out how things turn out for her, but since this is the first book of a trilogy, the ending left me wanting more.

Sloppy Firsts is a great example of YA chick lit, but is actually shelved in the adult section too - like it says on the back cover “a good read for anyone between the ages of 15 and 99.” Recommended.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Boy Book by E Lockhart

Posted by Keris on December 22, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 15, 2006 1:54 PM

BOOK REVIEW: In Between Men by Mary Castillo

Remember when we told you about Latina Lit (way back in August)? Well, Mary Castillo is the Latina Lit queen. Her second novel, In Between Men, is about Isa who has just been unlucky enough to be voted the un-sexiest woman alive by the students at the high school where she teaches. At first she’s not concerned - she’s got more important things to worry about than her appearance, like her job and her son - but when she meets Alex and starts receiving advice from a hallucination of Joan Collins, she realises it may well be time for a makeover.

Alex isn’t interested in Isa. He’s not interested in a relationship at all, and particularly not with the mother of one of the kids he coaches in soccer, but when Isa gets knocked out by the ball at a game, Alex feels responsible enough to take her out to dinner. And when he sees the post-makeover Isa, he starts to change his mind.

With its reluctant-to-love main characters and far-fetched and hilarious supporting characters, In Between Men reminded me a lot of Jennifer Crusie. There’s a subplot with Isa’s ex-husband which I didn’t entirely enjoy, perhaps because knowing she used to be married to such an unbelievable loser made me lose a little bit of regard for Isa (but I should give her a break because she was only 18) and I occasionally found it a little confusing and had to go back and reread certain scenes, but I think that was because there’s just so much going on.

All in all, I really enjoyed this book. Isa is wonderful, Alex is gorgeous and I can’t wait to read more from Mary Castillo.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Welcome to Temptation by Jennifer Crusie

Posted by Keris on December 15, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 14, 2006 10:10 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Copycat by Erica Spindler

Erica Spindler is well known for her thrillers. She has won the Kiss of Death Award in the past and I think that gives you a clue as to the type of books she writes.

Copycat is about a killer who suffocated three little girls in their beds leaving them posed as if they were sleeping. This earned them the name the Sleeping Angel Killer. They left no clues or witnesses. The crime remained unsolved until the killing started again five years on.

Kitt Lundgren, the lead detective from the original investigation, is overlooked for the case. After all, the last time it had pushed her over the edge and she had hit the bottle. It had taken her years to become sober again and now she’s only trusted with the lowliest of cases. That is until she spots a difference. A tiny variation in the killings that opens terrifying new possibilities.

The first thing that hit me about this book was the title. It immediately made me think of its namesake, the 1995 movie Copycat starring Sigourney Weaver. Considering the name, it’s ironic that there are so many similarities between the two. They both contain serial killers that may be copying the handiwork of others and washed up alcoholic investigators who are traumatised by the original murders. The whole book came across as very formulaic. But then I’m sure Spindler thought ‘If it ain’t broke don’t fix it’!

Apart from the lack of originality, this book works. It’s exciting and keeps you reading. The main characters are likeable strong women, although their home lives are too full of woe at times. There are a few plot twists that keep you guessing who the killer is until the end. It’s a great read.

I’m sure this will deliver to the crime buffs out there, but don’t expect anything new. [Angela Richardson]

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Bloodstream by Tess Gerritsen

Posted by Aigua Media on December 14, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 12, 2006 11:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Ex-Factor by Andrea Semple

The Ex-Factor is Andrea Semple's wonderful debut novel and Semple's talent for writing addictive, hilarious tales works wonders with both her first books. Even though I'll shamefully admit that I've yet to read The Man From Perfect, it's there on my wishlist nonetheless. And when it arrives? I'm likely to devour it in a matter of hours. As soon as I'd read The Makeup Girl, I was out in search of The Ex-Factor, and due to her quick and witty writing style, Andrea is one of my favourite chick-lit authors.

The Ex-Factor's Martha Seymore is an agony aunt. You know the sort: women who seem to know it all relationship-wise. They answer your questions, give you hearty advice and what's more, they're experts. At Gloss magazine, Martha's column is highly successful, though when she discovers that her OWN relationship is ... well, doomed ... the realisation that she didn't 'see the signs' starts to hit her. Hard.

Cue a stay with a best friend, nights out to nurse the pain away and a flatmate by the name of Jacqui; a coke-snorting fan of casual sex who lives in a church.

And of course, old classmate friend Desdemona who was highly renowned for getting exactly what she wanted ...

With a cast of funny yet intriguing characters and the irony of Martha's situation, The Ex Factor is a fabulous read. Despite not being as fast-paced as The Makeup Girl, it's fabulously fun and guaranteed some giggles. As Martha pieces together her relationship history, she realises that she might not be that different from her horde of readers after all ...

But is that really a bad thing?

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Little Lady Agency by Hester Browne

Related posts: Andrea Semple's Spotlight / Andrea Semple's new column

[Danielle Symonds-Yemm]

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on December 12, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

December 11, 2006 1:53 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Cloud Atlas by David Mitchell

The Cloud Atlas Sextet is a piece of music written by one of the characters in David Mitchell’s award-winning book and it's described as follows:

... 'sextet for overlapping soloists': piano, clarinet, 'cello, flute, oboe and violin, each in its own language of key, scale and colour. In the 1st set, each solo is interrupted by its successor: in the 2nd, each interruption is recontinued, in order.

Overlapping and interruption is also the structure of the book. It begins with a diary interrupted by a series of letters from the above composer. This is taken over by Half Lives: The First Luisa Rey Mystery which in turn is interrupted by The Ghastly Ordeal of Timothy Cavendish followed by An Orison of Somni and Sloosha's Crossin' an' Ev'rythin' After. Each is set in a different historical period (the last two are set in the future) and each is written in the style of that period.

I've been intrigued by David Mitchell's books for a while but always thought they looked like extremely difficult reads. Cloud Atlas isn't difficult, but it does reward attention. I didn't particularly enjoy the middle - the futuristic part. It was interesting, but I’m not a science fiction fan and I found it difficult to become emotionally involved.

My favourite parts were undoubtedly The Luisa Rey Mystery and Letters from Zedelghem. I also enjoyed The Ghastly Ordeal of Timothy Cavendish.

Entirely gripping, Cloud Atlas is a dazzling achievement. It's more than a stunning book: it's six stunning books.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins

Posted by Keris on December 11, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Prize Winners, Rating: 4/5, Richard and Judy | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 7, 2006 7:18 PM

BOOK REVIEW: What Would Murphy Brown Do? by Allison Klein

Murphy Brown was a 1990s TV show, hugely successful in the US, but less well-known in the UK. The titular character was a tough female journalist and in What Would Murphy Brown Do? Allison Klein examines not only Murphy, but a number of other strong and influential women TV characters, from Roseanne to Ellen to Rachel in Friends.

Starting with "the first overtly feminist sitcom", The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Klein looks at every aspect of women on TV, from the life of the unmarried sitcom woman to body image and ageing to women behind the scenes, supported by quotes from the shows themselves.

I found the essays "Doing 'It' for Fun: The New TV Sexuality" and "The Wonder of Womanhood: TV Friendship" to be the most interesting, but it's all thought-provoking stuff and it also means I've added Roseanne, The Golden Girls and Kate and Allie to my DVD wishlist.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Welcome to Wisteria Lane ed. by Leah Wilson

Television archives

Posted by Keris on December 7, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

Top ten non-fiction chick lit

Continuing Trashionista's Top 100 Extravaganza, we bring you....

The top 10 non-fiction chick-lit books! After all, there's nothing to say that chick lit has to be fiction, is there? And we've reviewed some fabulous non-fiction chick lit since Trashionista's incarnation. But what were our favourites? (And why?) Read on for the Top 10 Non-Fic Chick Lit, and what we said about it - in quotes, below - and find out!

10. You'll Never Nanny in this Town Again by Suzanne Hansen. Aka: The book that spilled the beans on nannying for the Hollywood elite... truly jaw-dropping.

"I'd definitely recommend it to anyone else who loved The Nanny Diaries, for a real-life perspective (truth really is stranger than fiction)."

Cosom_cvr_2 9. Conversations and Cosmopolitans by Robert Rave and Jane Rave. A gay man and his mother write alternate chapters about their lives and experiences after Robert gave out as gay via a typo-strewn letter. Cute, funny, and surprisingly moving:

"I'm a sucker for a good memoir, and this is a very good one. It made me cry in a couple of places, and some of Jane's experiences showed that sometimes straight people are looked down on for their sexuality too- which was a very interesting and unexpected angle... But mostly, it made me laugh and kept me hooked."

8. But Enough About Me by Jancee Dunn. Rock chick / journalist Dunn dishes about interviewing famous stars, dodgy boyfriends and an unfortunate cocaine episode... oh, and journalism too, of course!

"If you're at all interested in music or journalism or even if you remember the Eighties (although if you can remember the Eighties you weren't really there, right?), you'll love this charming and funny book."

7. Tabloid Love by Bridget Harrison. The story of a British journo looking for love in New York - a real life Bridget/Carrie hybrid!

"I found her story particularly fascinating being a frustrated Lois Lane myself, but you don't need to be a journalist-wannabe to enjoy this book: if you like reading about big cities, love, and the ups and downs of a modern woman making it on her own (and if none of those things interest you, what are you doing here?!) then you'll love this memoir."

6. Mama Lama Ding Dong by Ayun Halliday. A wonderful and unconventional mothering memoir!

"Mama Lama... is a feel good story about being yourself and having fun- even if you have children or are on the verge of giving birth! Ayun and her family are loving and happy, but far from conventional- they dress their little boy in girls' clothes if they fit him and look cute and their little girl was born with an extra thumb! Plus, their ultra-aggressive cat has an embarrassing sexual fetish..."

Carry on over the cut for our top 5 non-fic chick lit books, and to see if you agree!

5. I'm Celibate, Get me Out of Here! A true-life venture into the world of internet dating... with hilarious results.

"This book is witty, fast-paced and highly entertaining. You really feel the roller coaster sense that is associated with the search for Mr Right - at the end of the day we're all either doing it or have done it. The anecdotes are hugely amusing at times, but Elliott never feels the need to be downright rude about any of the men she came across. The idea for the book is very original, who knows it may join the likes of Adrian Mole and Bridget in years to come."

4. Mixed by Angela Nissel. Full of warmth and laughs, but tackles some serious race-related stuff too. My only complaint? It's not long enough!

"This book made me think, while entertaining me, making me laugh and just generally being a joy to read. That's not an easy feat so I can't wait to see what Ms Nissel writes about next..."

3. Cancer Vixen by Marisa Acocella Marchetto. Bit of a departure, this one: a chick-lit memoir in graphic novel form! But if you're not into comics, don't be put off... or you'll miss out, big time.

"There are some sad moments, of course. There's a moving interlude about Marisa's experience of 9/11 and something that happens as a result of her [cancer] treatment actually made me sob, but in the main this book is hilarious, uplifting and, yes, unputdownable. Read it."

2. Queen of the Oddballs by Hillary Carlip.

"I simply loved this book... Hillary really is an interesting and unique individual who's taken an inspiring yet down-to-earth "Oddball" journey through life. And I'm so happy she decided to write about it!"

And now for number 1! Can you guess what it is yet? Drumroll please...

It's...

1. Under the Duvet by Marian Keyes! Yes, it has to be, didn't it? Arise, Queen Marian of Keyes, goddess of chick lit - fictional or not! The book that made us discuss kidnapping an author for the very first time (see the comments...) We also said:

Duvet_1 "Can she be as successful in non-fiction as she is in fiction? Course she can, silly! This is Marian Keyes we're talking about! The signature humour, warmth and poignancy that we love in her novels is all here as she talks about her real life... If you want a book to curl up with, laugh at and just generally cherish (particularly if you're having a 'duvet day' yourself) then you can't go far wrong with this. And if you've only ever read Marian Keyes's fiction, then you're missing a treat!"

Trashionista Top 100 archives / Non-fiction archives / Memoir archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 7, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, British Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Rating: 5/5, Recent Release, Top 100 Extravaganza! | Permalink | Comments (3)

December 6, 2006 5:34 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Hens Dancing by Raffaela Barker

Hens Raffaella Barker's Hens Dancing isn't the newest of chick-lit books (it was published in 2000) and, appropriately, it's more hen- than chick-lit, but it's still a darn good girly read!

The story of Venetia Summers (yes, she's rather posh) whose husband leaves her and their three kids to shack up with his masseuse, it's told in diary form and covers a year of Venetia's life - from nits to bathroom conversions to unexpected guests, and most importantly, to her learning to cope with being a single mother with an irascible ex. So basically it's about life-changing disasters, small triumphs and everything in between...

At the time this came out, Venetia was compared pretty heavily to Bridget Jones, and if you imagine Bridget a little older, a tad wiser, with kids and an estranged husband, it's a pretty good description.

But Hens Dancing is a great book in its own right. I loved the memorable characters, like Venetia's eccentric mother and of course, her funny and very lively children. It's very well-written, funny and sharp and made me laugh out loud several times - and sympathise hugely with Venetia at others.

I highly recommend it!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Only Boy for Me by Gill McNeil.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 6, 2006 in Book related, British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

December 1, 2006 12:26 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Welcome to Wisteria Lane ed. by Leah Wilson

Wisteria_1 As you might guess from the title, Welcome to Wisteria Lane is a Desperate Housewives-themed collection of essays, by the people who brought you Flirting with Pride and Prejudice and This is Chick Lit.

Of the three books, I think this one is actually my favourite! A whole book about the inhabitants of Wisteria Lane, especially in the show's off-season (as it is now in the UK) is a wonderful treat, like curling up in front of a winter's fire with a cup of hot chocolate... which, now that I think about it, is a good way to read this book... Essays by authors including Shanna Swendson, Lani Diane Rich and Deanna Carlyle explore everything from the hazards of suburban living, to the best housewife role model, to a deconstruction of how cultural differences affect the way the show plays in different countries.

I found all of this very entertaining, and a lot of the essays made me think deeper than I expected- I came away from the book thinking that yes, Lynette is more selfish than I thought! And yes! I have been too hard on Edie, and yes! the men of Wisteria Lane are some weak caricatures... My Favourite essays were Lani Diane Rich's, "Why the best nighttime soap ever is not a nighttime soap, dammit" (about the programme's great writing), Beth Kendrick's "Growing up Wisteria" (the kids of Wisteria Lane) and Sarah Zettel's "Something familiar, something peculiar" (about why men love watching the show).

There were a couple of essays I liked a little less- including one that got too silly for my liking, and one which got too serious- but which other people might enjoy, so it seems unfair to single them out. As a whole, it's a very strong book, providing a great, intelligent and often very fun insight into 'the Lane' that DH fans will love.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Burnt Toast by Teri Hatcher.

*DID YOU KNOW?* You can catch up with any episodes you've missed on the Channel 4 site.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on December 1, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, British Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Television | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 28, 2006 10:58 AM

BOOK REVIEW: BreakupBabe by Rebecca Agiewich

At last, a review of one of NaNovember authors' books! Rebecca Agiewich's BreakupBabe started out as a blog, which Rebecca then fictionalised both to add a plot and - I'm conjecturing here - to avoid getting sued. Because I am so incredibly nosey, books like this drive me mad. I want to know which parts are true and which are made up, dammit!

~~Rebecca~~ Rachel works for a software company as a technical editor. She's just had a horrendous break-up with a guy she works with. She's not handling it well and she starts a blog to try and process her feelings. And the blog, as blogs are wont to do, starts to really help. But then it's discovered by her colleagues and things fall apart. Plus Rachel starts writing a book based on her blog. This book, in fact. You can see how this is confusing.

Along with the story of Rachel's break-up (or "The Great Unpleasantness", as Rachel calls it) and her problems at work, we also hear all about Rachel's dating escapades. These aren't the kind of so-bad-they're-funny dating stories you sometimes get; they're more real and hopeful and painful. With each new man I was rooting for Rachel and hated seeing her disappointed over and over again.

(If anyone has read Jennifer Crusie's Anyone But You, the BreakupBabe story reminds me a lot of the book Nina's friend is writing about her dating experiences. Remember the publisher suggests she fictionalise it to include a more hopeful ending?)

Although I think Rebecca Agiewich is a really talented writer, I sometimes found her style a bit affected. I also could have done with less about the medications Rachel was on, but that's probably personal preference.

As for which parts are true, it doesn't matter, of course. BreakupBabe feels true, and that's the most important thing.

Rating 4 out of 5

Like this? Try I'm Celibate, Get Me Out of Here by Jo Elliott

Did you know? Rebecca is still writing the Breakup Babe blog

Don't forget! It's not too late to enter our competition to win a copy of BreakupBabe

Posted by Keris on November 28, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, NaNovember, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 24, 2006 11:57 AM

PREVIEW REVIEW: Singletini by Amanda Trimble

Singletini_1 Normally on Trashionista, we review books that are available for everyone to buy (works well that way!) but sometimes we're lucky enough to get an advance copy of a lovely new novel, and we can't wait to tell you about it. So although Singletini by Amanda Trimble isn't available to buy in the UK until January 1st, it is available on pre-order at Amazon, so you could still pop a copy in your basket for a post-Xmas treat!

Singletini's main character Victoria Hart feels her life is a mess. At 25, she's disorganised, just lost her hated job in computer sales and is lost as to what to do next. All her friends' lives seem more sorted than hers - they have direction in their careers, and her great friend Gwynn has just got engaged, to Victoria's horror. She wants to be young, free and single - but the rate she's going fears she'll end up with nothing in her life. Then she spots an ad for a new, very well-paid job - as a "wingwoman". Her friends think it's akin to prostitution, but is it really?

Of course it's nothing quite so dramatic, but I loved the inventiveness of the idea - a wingwoman is someone a single man takes out with him to help him get dates or pull women. She breaks the ice with the women he fancies, talks him up (pretending to be a friend, sister or colleague) and when she succeeds in setting him up, gets paid very handsomely for doing so, plus expenses. But Victoria (of course!) discovers that the job isn't exactly easy money...

On top of all her work pressure, her friend Gwynn is expecting her to act as general dogsbody with all her wedding preparations (I actually got very interested in this subplot, which I thought could even have been expanded into a novel on its own, but I liked the fact that Singletini is fast and furious, with lots of storyline). Victoria's also trying to decide between two eligible bachelors - both of whom she met through work and wants for herself - and realising that she's spending most of the money she's making at her new job on upkeep for her glamorous new image.

Singletini is pretty standard, fairytale-ending chick-lit but written in a fast and compelling style, (perhaps as a result of the author's time in advertising?) that never becomes boring. The wingwoman idea is very creative and lends itself to lots of humor and interesting moral questions (none of which are really explored). What frustrated me a little about the book was a slight lack of depth - Victoria doesn't seem to have any realisation that her obsession with weight and shopping is shallow, or that 25 is too young to be worried about being alone forever, or that her friend's wedding planning behaviour (treating Victoria like a doormat) is unacceptable. But she does make some changes in her life and becomes happier by the end of the book, and it's very entertaining escapism on the way.

This is Amanda Trimble's debut novel - I'd definitely like to read more.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella; Save Karyn by Karyn Bosnak.

Related: PREVIEW REVIEW: The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 24, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 23, 2006 2:27 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Secret Confessions of the Applewood PTA

Yep, another confession, but a fictional one this time. Applewood is a wealthy community in Long Island and if you're an Applewood mom you're no-one unless you're active in the PTA. When the woman of the PTA discover that a Hollywood studio is considering using the local school as a film location, they're excited about the prospects for the community. When they learn that the star of the film will be George Clooney, well, excitement is an understatement.

But the book isn't about George Clooney (although he does make the odd appearance), it's about the lives and friendships of three women - Maddie, Lisa and Ruth. All members of the PTA, all three women have problems. Maddie thinks her husband is having an affair and is considering some infidelity of her own. Lisa's alcoholic mother comes to live with her, throwing her organised life into disarray. Ruth's had enough of taking care of her husband, incapacitated after a stroke, and embarks on an affair of her own.

But the PTA is a dog eat dog world and other members are only too happy to use the movie project for their own manipulative ends. Can Maddie, Lisa and Ruth save the project and sort their own lives out?

Obviously any book about scandal in the suburbs will be compared to Desperate Housewives, but Secret Confessions of the Applewood PTA reminded me more of the classic Peyton Place. Lisa, Maddie and Ruth are all interesting and entertaining characters - I loved Ruth in particular. It's a little predictable in parts, but it's otherwise a funny, compelling and well-written book. This is Ellen Meister's debut. I think her next book might just knock my socks off.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Goodnight, Nobody by Jennifer Weiner

Posted by Keris on November 23, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: Will Write for Shoes by Cathy Yardley

Willwritefor In the midst of madness of NaNoWriMo, I'd bet my Versace specs that the chick-lit writers of tomorrow are going at it in their masses.

Writing, that is. What did you think I meant?

Being the not-so-proud owner of a feeble NaNo attempt myself, I'll admit that often, a guide book is required. It's not that the majority of us don't know our stuff (and personally I read and own so much chick-lit that I swear my cheapie Argos bookcase is about to explode and give me massive papercuts courtesy of the Shopaholic series) but hey, what's wrong with a bit of assistance?

Following Trashionista's recommendation of how-to chick-lit book See Jane Write, I must give credit to another title of similar nature: Will Write for Shoes - How to Write a Chick-Lit Novel, by Cathy Yardley.

It's pretty, it's pink, and more importantly, it's chock-full of writing tips for any aspiring chick-lit writer.

So, you want to write a girly masterpiece? Where to begin? Of course, those who read a lot of the genre obviously have a vague idea of where such a book should be heading. But if you're just starting out, Will Write for Shoes is a brilliant resource for your first-time writing needs. Yardley covers the brief history of the chick-lit genre, from its birth in the form of Bridget Jones to the recent bout of novels as the genre has burst forth with so much to offer.

There's also a handy 'Chick-Lit 101' detailing the traditional aspects of the chick-lit novel, along with advice on trends and the numerous cliches which get really old, really fast. So before you even THINK about putting that overly-camp gay hairdresser of a best friend into your novel for 'comic relief' - seriously reconsider. You have been warned.

Aside from the ever-so-handy tips on the genre itself: what it's all about, what to avoid and what can make one's novel prosper, the rest of this book reads quite like any other how-to writing guide, only with a sweet, candy-like covering. It doesn't go into immense detail but does provide some personal insights from the author, who has several published chick-lit books to her credit, and this made fascinating reading.

Topics such as agents, publishers and various steps of novel-writing are covered, each topic being well-written and fun to read. There's also a section covering various publishers, along with a handy contact list, though this is only a bonus if you're based in America. UK chicks will be forced to look elsewhere, I'm afraid! There's also a great FAQ chapter and a variety of samples (query letter, synopsis etc) to help you on your way to published success. (Although British readers beware! UK publishers usually want first three chapters, not a synopsis - so best to do your own research).

In any case, Will Write for Shoes is a fabulous addition to the bookshelf of any upcoming chick-lit writer. It can't guarantee you instant literary fame and a spot on the bestseller list, but it will certainly guide you on your way to creating a decent plot and - hopefully - a well-written first novel.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try See Jane Write by Sarah Mlynowski and Farrin Jacobs; No Plot? No Problem! by Chris Baty.

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on November 23, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, NaNovember, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (5)

November 22, 2006 11:02 AM

BOOK REVIEW: The Boyfriend List by E. Lockhart

Boylist As Keris mentioned in her review of E. [for Emily] Lockhart's The Boyfriend Book, The Boyfriend List is the prequel to that book. Ever the completist, I couldn't resist reviewing it! The story of Ruby Oliver, a fifteen year-old girl who's been referred to a psychiatrist after suffering a series of panic attacks, it's a funny, moving and realistic portrayal of teenage life.

Ruby's psychiatrist notices that she's talking about boys quite a lot, so asks her to make a 'boyfriend list', listing every boy she's ever had any kind of romantic liaison with, however insignificant. Most of the chapters of this book are named after one of the boys on the list, and Ruby narrates the story of what happens with each boy within each chapter, allowing the narrative to switch around, and also feeding in information about her family, her rift with her best friend and the causes of her anxiety. The story is very cleverly woven together in this way, and keeps the reader hooked.

At first, I admit it took me a little time to adjust to a YA story, all about school and teenage feelings- I wasn't sure I wanted to revisit all that! Plus the book is clearly aimed at young teenagers... But once I got into the story, I didn't care about any of that, and would now be happy to call E. Lockhart one of my favourite chick-lit authors- YA or otherwise...

Ruby Oliver is a believable and endearing character and The Boyfriend List is compelling, fun, and captures the spirit of teenagerdom brilliantly. And it will remind you to be very careful what you throw away in public bins, too....

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Boyfriend Book by E Lockhart; The Princess Diaries Seventh Heaven by Meg Cabot.

And check out the author's blog too- it's fab!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 22, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (5)

November 21, 2006 2:44 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Confessions of a Naughty Mommy by Heidi Raykeil

Before their first child was born Heidi Raykeil and her husband, JB, had a wild marriage (if you know what I mean). But Heidi's shocked to find that following the arrival of daughter Ramona, her libido has completely left the building. At first she's unconcerned. She's tired, she's totally engrossed in her baby, that is all she needs, but as time goes on and she realises her lack of enthusiasm is actually damaging her marriage, she decides to do something about it.

It's not as simple as a trip to that shop with the plastic knickers in the window, Heidi needs to examine every aspect of her marriage, her own attitude to - and history of - intimacy (can you tell I'm trying to write this without using the "S" word?) and what motherhood means to her and to her relationship with her husband.

And she does it with a startling and admirable openness. It's not just that she shares intimate details of her life with her husband (but she does; she really, really does), she shares intimate details of everything, which is so important because this is still an issue that is rarely discussed (although Oprah has featured it!). Heidi also writes beautifully about the all-encompassing nature of parenthood.

I really loved Confessions of a Naught Mommy. Despite the Carry On-style title, it's entertainingly written and incredibly brave. I don't doubt that all parents would find something important in it, even those of us who weren't "bouncing each other off the walls" even before we were parents!

Rating 4 out of 5

Like this? Try .. er .. The Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy by Polly Williams

Did you know? Heidi answers readers questions here - not for the fainthearted!

Posted by Keris on November 21, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 20, 2006 4:24 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: Holes by Louis Sachar

Holes Louis Sachar's Holes is one of those books described as 'crossover', meaning it was written for children, but it's so good that adults ended up buying their own copies, too.

A miscarriage of justice sees Stanley Yelnats [notice the palindrome?] sent to a detention centre for young boys called Camp Green Lake. There, he and his fellow inmates are forced to dig a hole a day, every day in the dried up desert, with only very limited supplies of food and water. Their holes must be- five feet wide and five feet deep and there's no escape as they're in such an isolated area... The Warden of Green Lake describes thier back-breaking labour as "character building."

But what's really going on? Stanley is determined to find out...

Obviously I'm not going to give away the plot, but suffice it to say that Stanley gets to the bottom of the holes (metaphorically speaking) and manages to turn his history of bad luck around. Part adventure story, part morality tale, Holes is a fantastic and exciting read for any age group!

Rating: 4 out of 5

DID YOU KNOW? Holes was made into a 2003 film starring Sigourney Weaver.

Like this? Try The Thunderbolt Kid by Bill Bryson.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 20, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Modern Fiction, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 15, 2006 2:31 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Why Moms Are Weird by Pamela Ribon

Belinda Bernstein has the unfortunate nickname of "Benny" and, despite moving to the opposite side of the country, an incredibly co-dependent mother. Benny likes her life in Los Angeles and has just entered into a new relationship (with the gorgeous Mickey), but when her mother and sister have a car accident, Benny flies home and is horrified by what she finds.

Not only is her mother dating three men at once, her house is filthy and filled with trash. Her sister is in an(other) abusive relationship and has started a collection of stray dogs. And what's even more galling is that neither of them have commented on Benny's weightloss.

With the help of a handyman to whom Benny finds herself incredibly attracted, despite the fact he tells her he's unavailable and despite not knowing where things stand with Mickey, Benny takes it upon herself to fix everything. But what Benny doesn't realise is that just because something's broke, doesn't mean she has to be the one to fix it.

I really enjoyed this book, despite becoming frustrated with Benny's inability to see that her help isn't wanted. Benny's an entertaining and intelligent (if frequently unreliable) narrator and her mother is hilarious. Plus Mickey is one of the most original chick lit heroes I've read for a long time (the scenes between them crackle off the page).

Anyone who has suffered guilt pangs at moving far from home - or who has a mother who is too close for comfort - will enjoy this book.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner

Pamela Ribon has an enormously successful blog at Pamie.com

Posted by Keris on November 15, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 13, 2006 2:14 PM

MORE ON MONDAY: No Plot? No Problem! by Chris Baty

Since it's NaNovember, I thought a NaNo related More on Monday may be appropriate. Chris Baty is the founder of NaNoWriMo and his book No Plot? No Problem! was written with the NaNo challenge in mind (it's subtitled A High-velocity, Low-stress Way to Write a Novel in 30 Days).

Even if the thought of writing 50,000 words in a month fills you with horror - but you've still got that novel idea in the back of your mind - this could still be the book for you.

What you get in No Plot? No Problem! is a more detailed (and hilarious) account of why NaNoWriMo works - your first draft is not meant to be great, in fact it's better if it isn't. What you need for a first draft is words on the page.

It's not about how to write (there are tons of books for that) but rather how to force your bum on to the seat, learn to ignore your inner critic (the one that tells you what you're writing is rubbish), stop procrastinating with endless cups of tea and chocolate digestives (oh, right, that's me) and actually get some work done.

It's motivational, inspirational and, like I said, very funny. You could use it to challenge yourself to write a novel in any month (it doesn't have to be November, you know!) or just as a practical and entertaining back-up to any sort of writing.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Bird by Bird by Anne Lamott

Intro to NaNovember / More on Monday archives

Posted by Keris on November 13, 2006 in American Authors, More On Monday, NaNovember, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 10, 2006 6:17 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Sleep With Me by Joanna Briscoe

Sleepwith The characters in Sleep With Me by Joanna Briscoe are selfish, self-indulgent, snobby whining thirty-somethings who are hard to relate to and even harder to care about. But it's okay; they're supposed to be. This is a haunting, creepy, slow-moving novel that builds to a dramatic crescendo. It's subtly sinister- an uncomfortable read for no reason you can put your finger on.

Told from the alternating viewpoints of Lelia and Richard, a London couple who are perfectly happy together, the action begins at a Christmas party after they've just conceived their first child. Happy and glowing, they barely notice the presence of a new member of the group, Sylvie, who appears mousy and uninteresting. And yet slowly over the next few months she starts to make her presence felt...

Seducing Richard and leaving Lelia alone with thoughts of a past that haunts her, Sylvie becomes an addictive presence in the couple's life, but one that is never acknowledged between them. I can't say too much about the plot without revealing the story that a reader must allow to unfold for themselves, but this is a very compelling read.

The alternating viewpoints narrative works well, and as we reach the end of the book, allows certain plot points to be put together without our discovering them earlier. It also gives us a real insight into these people's heads- I think one of the reason the characters seem so unlikeable is that as narrators they're so emotionally honest, and tell us more than we need to know about themselves- often things we wouldn't wish to know about another person! Joanna Briscoe is a very talented and sharp author to be able to achieve this, and it shows a great understanding of human nature- its weaknesses and foibles (with an emphasis on human sexuality and how we deal with grief), which is really what this book is all about.

If that sounds like a super-serious read, it isn't- Sleep Wit Me isn't full of humour but it's not a hard book to work through; you'll want to race through it. A quote on the front describes it as "a great summer page turner..." Great it may be, but set in winter, with some very dark themes, there's nothing summery about it. I'd say it's a great winter read, if you don't mind feeling a little discomfited while you're reading- and for a few days afterwards...

I'm just not sure Briscoe intended for me to dislike her characters as much as I did- they're rather stuffy, cold and formal, although I had sympathy for them, especially Lelia, towards the end of the book.

The book feels a bit like a more modern Patricia Highsmith, where an undercurrent of menace is created out of very little, so it could be a creepy classic of the future!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 10, 2006 in Book related, British Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: Day Shift Werewolf by Jan Underwood

Janunderwood

We told you about the three-day novel earlier, now read our review of the 2005 winner...

Jan Underwood was the winner of the 28th Annual International 3 Day Novel Writing Contest in 2005 with this, her first novel Day Shift Werewolf. As you’ve probably guessed, the novel was written in three days and it weaves together eight stories that are connected by the town of Stevens’ Ferry.

Each story is about a supernatural being who has become disillusioned with their lot in life...

Warren, the werewolf of the title, realises he doesn’t like meat, but he does have an slight obsession with apostrophes (Steven’s Ferry? Stevens’ Ferry? Stevens Ferry? Don’t worry, Warren will sort it out...) A minor demon decides he’d rather be a four-year-old girl and a Norwegian Gnome tries to claim political asylum. My favourite story was the first in the book. Ms Underwood slowly unravels the story, revealing a little bit more of her characters with every page until the picture is complete. The humour is very subtle and giggle-to-yourself funny.

The novel is short (well, it was written in three days), but I really like the idea of such a short novel. It’s great for reading on a train or in a café because it’s just the right size for a handbag. Even a small handbag. [Nicola Pedley]

For further information check out www.3daynovel.com.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try the other winners of the 3 Day Novel Contest; Enchanted Inc by Shanna Swendson.

Supernatural archives.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 10, 2006 in Book related, Competition, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, NaNovember, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Supernatural | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 9, 2006 5:18 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy

Anyone who has ever looked in the mirror six months after becoming a mother and not recognised the shell of a woman looking back will relate to the gloriously funny, warm and poignant Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy by new chick on the block Polly Williams.

Amy Crane may have become a mother, but in all other respects she has lost her identity and she struggles to reconcile her love for her gorgeous baby girl Evie with old life as a career girl, lover and friend. She bounces between two groups of friends - the NCT mothers who don't feel fulfilled without a baby strapped to their boobs, and the yummy mummies with the designer prams and designer children.

Ultimately she falls under the spell of the super glamorous Alice who sets about co-ordinating 'Project Amy' - a makeover to ensure the new mum gets her groove back. At the same time she struggles to keep her relationship together with Joe, who she suspects cheated on her while she was heavily pregnant.

Will Project Amy be a success? Will her relationship with survive? Will her eye-brows ever grow back?

Polly Williams adds enough twists and turns to keep even the most seasoned chick-lit fanatic guessing - and laughing - to the end. The Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy is recommended for anyone who ever wanted a change.

Rating: 4 out of 5

[Claire Allan]

Like this? Try Watermelon by Marian Keyes

Posted by Keris on November 9, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 8, 2006 2:41 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Piece of Work by Laura Zigman

Laurazigman Piece of Work is Laura Zigman's fourth novel after a four year absence (which, reading this book and between the lines, I'm going to assume might be something to do with her having a baby...)

It's the story of Julia Einstein (no relation!), who gave up a stressful but stimulating job in PR to have and raise her baby boy Leo. But now Leo is three and about to start pre-school, and Julia's husband Peter has been "downsized" from his job and seems in no hurry to get back to work.

So Julia reluctantly dips her toe back into the world of work...

Laura Zigman is an intelligent writer whose characters are empathetic and relate-able. I suspect many women will understand and relate to Julia's difficulty in leaving her son after three years of being his primary carer- not to mention her jealousy at the good times Leo and Peter seem to have without her. But even women who haven't been in that situation will still feel empathy for Julia as her feelings are so well conveyed.

Peter takes to house husbandry like a duck to water and has soon streamlined the family's routine and is cooking delicious nutritious meals every day and making friends with all the mothers at school. Meanwhile, Julia is struggling with a self-sabotaging boss and a badly behaved old film star client, who she has to travel the country with. She thinks maybe returning to work wasn't such a good idea, but Peter's in no hurry to return... so they're a bit stuck.

I really enjoyed this book, finding the episodes with Julia's client especially entertaining- the woman is awful, and yet somehow very real and not a caricature. Knowing that Zigman used to work in publicity made that aspect of the book all the more juicy! It's well written, snappily-paced and moving. My only slight criticism is that the assumption that one day Peter will return to work (for the sake of his self-esteem? Do men 'have' to work full time?) is never questioned- it's always just an implicit assumption. I would have liked to have seen that turned on its head a little more. But I love the way the author portrayed a man competent at looking after the house and his son (there are too many useless men in fiction!) and the struggles the couple went through seemed realistic. There was also an added sadness in a back story about Julia's childhood, which added a little more depth to the novel but never became depressing.

Her characters and subject matter are maturing, but Laura Zigman can still be relied upon to write great stories- however long we have to wait!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Dating Big Bird by Laura Zigman; The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner.

AND! Look out for an exclusive Trashionista interview with the author coming soon!

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 8, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 6, 2006 12:11 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Woman's Best Friend edited by Megan McMorris

Woman's Best Friend is a collection essays about women and their dogs. I know, it doesn't sound like the most fascinating read, does it? But it really is, and I'm not even a dog person (I thought I was until I read this book, but now I realise I'm more of a dog dilettante).

Edited by Megan McMorris and with a foreword by the wonderful Pam Houston, Woman's Best Friend includes essays on subjects as varied as a disturbed Pug in need of "behavioral modification", dogs that talk, falling in love with a dachshund named Cutie, and being unable to fall in love with your dog at all. Of course, the essays aren't just about dogs. They are how dogs fit into lives, inform relationships and choices, teach us how to live and love.

I enjoyed every single one of these essays (actually, that's not strictly true - Rebecca Skloot's The Truth About Cops and Dogs, while brilliantly written, important and heart-breaking, really shouldn't be read by anyone not interested in serious dog attacks. I could not stop thinking about it and it continues to upset me.) Deadwood vs Dogwood by Margaret Littman describes how she fell in love both with her dog and her garden. Gail Hulnick's Sixth Sense is about Casey the keeshond, who always knew she was pregnant before even she did. Marion Winik's Seven Reasons Not to Get a Dog is funny and true (and more than convinced me).

If you love dogs, you'll love this book. It made me laugh, it made me cry. It made me reconsider my plan to get a dog (I don't want to have to get up at 5am to let it out!). Even if you don't love dogs, you'll love the writing. Highly recommended.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Pug Hill by Alison Pace

Posted by Keris on November 6, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 3, 2006 1:17 PM

BOOK REVIEW: My One Night Stand With Cancer by Tania Katan

Taniakatan By the time Tania Katan was 31, she'd had breast cancer twice- the first time at 21- and a double mastectomy. My One Night Stand with Cancer explores what it's like to be faced with a life-threatening illness, twice! and also tells the story of Tania's family life, her upbringing, her work to make it as a writer and her struggle to find a good, healthy relationship.

At times, I found the narrative a bit confusing, as the action moves from Tania's first bout with cancer to her second so it's very choppy at times. She's living in different cities and has different (both awful!) girlfriends but I still forgot which decade I was in occasionally! However, it's not that hard to catch up and I can see that organising things this way helps show the parallels between the two diagnoses but for me a chronological explanation would have worked better.

Still, I found the story completely absorbing, scary, full of emotion and at times very funny and I had a lot of respect for Katan at the end of it. Not because she survived breast cancer twice but because she's so brave about being herself and demanding that others accept her for who she is. For example, she refuses reconstructive surgery because she wants to accept her new body, and for others to do the same, and when they do it's one of the most poignant parts of the book (yes, I cried).

I can see that this memoir probably isn't everyone's cup of tea- Katan is very upfront about her feelings, her sexuality (in some detail- although nothing too crude!) and her inner struggles. Anyone from the "keep-it-to-yourself-stiff-upper-lip" school of thought might not appreciate her approach! But it works for her: she survived cancer times two, found happiness and inner peace- and I really enjoyed reading about it.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Cancer Vixen by Marisa Acocella Marchetto; Queen of the Oddballs by Hillary Carlip.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on November 3, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 26, 2006 3:22 PM

BOOK REVIEW: If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend by Alison Pace

Since, as Diane's just pointed out, Alison Pace has finished writing her third novel, I thought today would be a good time to review her first: If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend.

Gallery manager Jane Laine is sent on a five-month international art fair tour with British artist, Ian Rhys-Fitzsimmons (as we have seen, American authors think all British men are named Ian). Unimpressed with his art, Jane thinks Ian's a fraud and isn't impressed with the assignment either. In fact, Ian makes Jane nervous, but, as they travel to London, Rome, Chicago, Santa Fe, she finds that there's much more to Ian - and to his art - than she originally thought. Can you guess what's going to happen?

I really enjoyed this book. Jane is sweet and relateable and Ian is quite the fox. Alison Pace has been an art researcher and worked at Sotheby's and it shows - the art and art fairs are interesting and convincing. Jane's boss, Dick Reese of the Dick Reese Gallery is fabulously awful and with relevant Andy Warhol quotes heading up each chapter and a cameo appearance by Owen Wilson, If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend is an original, fun and funny read. Roll on Alison's third book!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Pick Me Up by Zoe Rice

Posted by Keris on October 26, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 25, 2006 4:51 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Dating Big Bird by Laura Zigman

Zigman_2 Dating Big Bird was published in 2000, and was Laura Zigman's second novel (after Animal Husbandry, which was filmed as Someone Like You. Phew!) It's the story of Ellen Franck, a clever, attractive New York woman looking for a man who wants the same things she does: stability, children and commitment. She's not having much luck. Instead, she has a sexless relationship with an older man, whom she loves but who's too scared of being hurt to commit to her. Meanwhile, her sister is happily married in the suburbs, with an adorable little girl who can't quite fill the child-shaped gap in Ellen's life...

Although it might sound like a familiar chick-lit story (same old, same old), Zigman's talent is that her books aren't that predictable. Even though this was written a few years ago (meaning she was ahead of most 'mum-lit' writers) it still feels very fresh. There's a real emotional depth to her writing, which kept me hooked. I've said before that this isn't a topic that really interests me on a personal level, but I found Dating Big Bird very moving, and it even made me cry. As well as Ellen's story, her friend Marian is in a similar situation while their boss, fashion designer Karen Lipp, is pregnant and doesn't seem to care.

Zigman is a very generous writer in that she wants the best for all her characters, and creates believable people that we care about and can relate to even if we're not in the same situation ourselves. She also works well writing about New York (she deviated to Washington for her third novel Her, which didn't work quite as well). For some reason, she doesn't seem to be as well-known here as she is in the U.S, which is a great shame, as she's a top-class chick lit author. If you've never read any of her books, this would be a great place to start.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Isabel's Bed by Elinor Lipman.

Posted by Aigua Media on October 25, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 23, 2006 5:49 PM

BOOK REVIEW: As Seen on TV by Sarah Mlynowski

Sarah Mlynowski's As Seen on TV was one of the earliest reality TV based books of which there are now many!

When Sunny Langstein's boyfriend asks her to move to New York and in with him, she leaves Florida and her job behind. So when she fails to find work in New York and then gets the chance to audition for Party Girls, a new reality version of Sex and the City, the decision is easy.

Sunny not only has to pretend to be single, but dye her hair and change her name (to Sunny Lang). And then when she starts enjoying the spotlight and its inherent temptations a little too much it looks like her move to New York might not turn out quite as planned.

I really enjoyed this book. Sarah Mlynowski has a bright and chatty style and the details of the reality show process are very funny and, presumably, quite realistic. One question on the application form made me laugh out loud:

Are you fat? Please circle Yes or No

The issues raised by instant fame are dealt with intelligently and amusingly and the clever epilogue made the hairs on my arms stand up!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner

Posted by Keris on October 23, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

MORE ON MONDAY: Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim by David Sedaris

Davidsed_1 American David Sedaris is well-known across the pond for his humorous essays about his eccentric family and the strange things that happen to him, but he's a lot less well-known over here, despite the fact that he lives in Europe (in France). Dress Your Family in Corduroy and Denim is his most recent book, published last year. After loving one of his earlier offerings, Me Talk Pretty One Day (click that link to read an extract), I was a little disappointed by his other books Barrel Fever and Naked, which I found a bit patchy. Thankfully, with Dress... Sedaris is back on very funny form.

The autobiographical stories/essays in this collection span from Sedaris's childhood- taking in his weird neighbours, rich old relatives and childhood bullies- to the modern day and the problems of how to get rid of mice in your French farmhouse (drown them on your front doorstep?) There's some very unusual characters here but most entertaining are David and his family, which includes his chain-smoking mother and perma-swearing brother Paul, and his sister Tiffany, who likes to chat whilst on the toilet... they're an odd, colourful bunch, and an endless source of amusement. Not because we're laughing at them, but with them (and maybe feeling a little bit better about ourselves in the process...) David is also endearingly honest about his somewhat obsessive-compulsive tendencies and those odd thoughts that most of us tend to keep to ourselves!

It's hard for me to believe, but I know not everyone loves this type of humour. If Woody Allen's films leave you cold and you think Oscar Wilde, Dorothy Parker and Carrie Fisher are over-rated hags (what?!), you probably won't enjoy this book. Likewise, if you're offended by swearing and sexual innuendo (not to mention mouse-drowning) there's moments here that will make you cringe. But if you like a book to make you laugh and reading about someone else's problems makes you feel better, this book is a dream.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Conversations and Cosmopolitans by Robert Rave and Jane Rave; Queen of the Oddballs by Hillary Carlip.

October 20, 2006 7:42 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Comeback Kiss by Lani Diane Rich

The Comeback Kiss is Lani Diane Rich's fourth novel and features a couple of characters from Maybe Baby - Finn the bird thief and Babs Wiley McGregor (but you don't have to have read Maybe Baby to read The Comeback Kiss) (but you should, because it's great).

But I digress. Finn returns to Lucy's Lake, Vermont, the town he grew up in and where he left Tessa, his first love, without saying goodbye. A lot has changed, but Tessa hasn't and as soon as Finn sees her, he knows it's going to be hard to leave again.

What Finn doesn't know is that the night he left, Tessa's mother was killed in a car accident while escaping from a fire. Tessa has raised her younger sister, Izzy, despite the interference of an evil social worker, but to do that she's had to put her own life on hold. And the night Finn arrives sees another apparently accidental fire at another of Lucy's Lake's businesses.

I can't tell you anything else because I don't want to spoil it, but what I will tell you is that, like Lani's other novels, The Comeback Kiss is great fun with laugh out loud moments, romance and, um, good lovin' (I'm feeling coy today). Finn is gorgeous, Tessa is another strong female character (this author excels in strong female characters) and Babs is just fabulous, I love her. And I haven't even mentioned the talking dog. No, really.

The Comeback Kiss is the perfect book to curl up with on a cold Autumn night.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try My Favourite Mistake by Beth Kendrick

Did you know? Joshilyn Jackson voted Ex and the Single Girl her favourite chick lit book!

Posted by Keris on October 20, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: London is the Best City in America by Laura Dave

Lauradave_1 You know how you sometimes read the title of a book and then make up your own mind about the storyline? (It's not just me, is it?!) Well, I had this one completely wrong: I assumed it was about an American girl who dumped her fiance and came to live in London... er, no. It is about a girl who dumps her fiance, though.

London is the Best City in America is a debut novel from Laura Dave (who wrote an excellent guest blog for us during Bafab week). It tells the story of Emmy, who left her fiance while he was asleep in a hotel room, moved to Rhode Island and tried to get on with her life. Three years later, she's forced to return home to New York State for her brother Josh's wedding, the first time she's been home in all that time. She's hoping her brother's wedding will go off without a hitch, she won't run into her ex, and she can justify her long absence to her family.

Things don't go quite as planned...

Her first big shock is that, two nights before the ceremony, her brother confesses that he's not sure he wants to get married after all. The two siblings go on a road trip back to Rhode Island, where Josh is briefly re-united with his other woman... and her daughter. Then they travel back to NY so he can decide what to do next... In the midst of all this chaos, Emmy meets up with her old high-school boyfriend, runs into her ex, flirts with Josh's best friend, and tries to make sense of why her relationship with her ex didn't work- and what she wants to do with the rest of her life.

For a novel with so much going on, however, it's told in quite a languid way. The tone is very thoughtful, ponderous (but never dull). It's as much- in fact more- about internal realisations than it is about external events. I liked that a lot, the fact that we see Emmy's progression, and feel that she's happy and knows what she wants by the end of the book. Having said that, I was occasionally slightly frustrated that just as the action got going, we stepped back into Emmy's internal narrative again. But it was always worth the wait! I liked the way the author ties everything together at the end: there's a hopeful, happy ending, but it's realistic, too. Laura Dave's style reminded me a lot of Melissa Bank, although it's a bit less dialogue-based.

Overall, it's an enjoyable read that has something to say. The characters may not make it to London, but I won't hold that against them!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Wonder Spot by Melissa Bank; The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 20, 2006 in American Authors, Bafab, Book related, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (4)

October 19, 2006 12:40 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Behind with the Laundry and Living off Chocolate by Lynette Allen

Behind with the Laundry and Living off Chocolate? It's like Lynette Allen's taken my life and put it in a book! Luckily she's not writing about my unmentionables on the radiators and how I had four Fox's Classics for breakfast, but rather 'Life changing strategies for busy women'. Sounds too good to be true. Is it?

No, it's fab.

Obviously, laundry and chocolate issues are unlikely to fill a book (well, laundry issues anyway) and Behind with the Laundry and Living off Chocolate basically consists of short chapters of tips, advice, inspiration for all aspects of a busy life. You can start at the beginning and read everything, you can close your eyes and pick a chapter, or you can just read the chapters relevant to your situation.

Chapters include "Green Cross Code for women - stop, listen and act!" (decision-making tips), "Calm your environment, calm your mind!" (this one is actually about dealing with your laundry pile!) and "Are you sitting just a little too comfortably?" (inspiration if you're bored with life and afraid to try new things).

Obviously with such short chapters, you're not going to get in-depth advice, but there is definitely great common-sense information and inspiration to be had - and who has time to read in-depth advice anyway? Plus the book comes with a CD of tips (read by BBC Radio 2's Janey Lee Grace) which is a great idea - you can listen in the car or even while you finally tackle that laundry!

Behind with the Laundry and Living off Chocolate (you can tell I love saying that, can't you) is an excellent book and one I'll definitely be dipping into again.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Gulp! by Gabriella Goddard or Behind with the Mortgage and Living off Plastic by Lynette Allen

Posted by Keris on October 19, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Self development, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 18, 2006 5:19 PM

BOOK REVIEW: How Will I Know? by Sheila O’Flanagan

Flanagan_1 Prolific chick lit author O’Flanagan pulls another fantastic read out of the bag with How Will I Know? an occasionally thought-provoking story of the relationship between a bereaved mother and her daughter. Covering all the big ‘no-no’s’ of our age – death, divorce and drinking – this book provides a light look at how people deal with all three. The central character, Claire, met her husband Bill when they were very young and discovered her soulmate.

Following his tragic death on a family holiday, her life revolves around her daughter Georgia. Now Georgia has become a teenager, Claire’s concerned about how to give her advice on dating and the dreaded boys. This sets off an amusing and surprisingly up-to-date tale of her attempts to get back into the dating ‘scene’ whilst dealing with the deeper issues of how she feels about moving on from her feelings about the death of her husband. At the same time, her parents are divorcing after many years of marriage, and her best friend is dealing with her husband’s drink problem.

Claire has a hard time rediscovering the world of dating – and online matchmaking services – with some bittersweet experiences. But however sad the story, there’s a funny side to almost everything, particularly the experiences of her daughter getting to grips with a first boyfriend. By making sure she includes a strong storyline for the grandmother, mother and daughter, O’Flanagan has made sure that this book will appeal to a wide range age range of readers.

Of course there are the usual comforting chick lit plot elements – set in Ireland, a convenient working from home job, all tradesmen are attractive and animals are cute and fluffy. There’s a small plot twist as well, but nothing to trouble the brain cells, so all in all a very easy read. I really enjoyed this as a chill-out on the commute to work read, and found myself with tears in my eyes at some moments - perfect beach material for a late summer break. [Emma Tazewell].

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try P.S I Love You by Cecilia Ahern.

Posted by Aigua Media on October 18, 2006 in Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 17, 2006 2:35 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Secret Society Girl by Diana Peterfreund

Anyone who read Diana Peterfreund's brilliant defence of chick lit would surely want to read her novel and I was no exception.

Secret Society Girl is the first in a series (the second book, Under the Rose, is out next year) featuring Amy Haskel who is unexpectedly 'tapped' into her university's most prestigious (and, of course, secret) society, Rose & Grave. The members of Rose & Grave allegedly control all aspects of the media (including the winners of American Idol), the police, even the government. Getting tapped by them is a pretty big deal, in other words. The only trouble is, Amy doesn't seem to fit the profile and can't understand what they want with her.

Amy's best friend and roommate Lydia has also been tapped, but we don't find out who by (not in this book at least). Her 'friend with benefits' Brandon isn't interested in all the secret society business, but he is interested in becoming more serious with Amy. The trouble is, once Amy's initiated into the society she forgets about everything else, including her studies (though that doesn't matter because Rose & Grave has an archive of past papers). And when Amy finds out why she was chosen, things get even more out of control.

I really loved this book. Diana Peterfreund has a chatty, witty, intelligent writing style and a brilliant way with cliffhanger chapter endings. I don't think I finished a single chapter without at least reading a couple of pages of the following one. There are a couple of problems: Amy's decision on whether or not to keep schtum about the society seems to shift depending on the requirements of the plot and Brandon's not exactly consistent either, but they're small issues. Secret Society Girl is a fast, funny, original read and I'm looking forward to the next book.

Rating: 4 out of 5

If you like this, try Size 12 Is Not Fat by Meg Cabot

Related stories: Ivy League chick lit

Posted by Keris on October 17, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (50)

October 13, 2006 5:30 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Pick Me Up by Zoe Rice

When I read that editor-turned-author Zoe Rice's book Pick Me Up was not only set in New York, but also featured a heroine who is mad about Robbie Williams, I knew I had to read it. Plus there's a cover comment from Sophie Kinsella - "Clever, witty and fun! Izzy is a great character. So funny!" - and who am I to resist the chick lit queen herself?

So is Pick Me Up a pick-me-up or is it all too easy to put down (sorry ..)? Carry on over the cut to find out.

Izzy works in an art gallery, has a glamorous PR best friend, wonderful clients and a cat named Robbie. She's happy with her life until the gallery's benefactor drops dead, her fabulous boss takes a job on the other side of the country and she's landed with an artist who seems not to be able to stand her .. most of the time.

I really enjoyed this book. Izzy's a charming, down-to-earth character and the supporting cast - particularly Izzy's gallery colleague, Kimmy (who I hope gets her own book one day) - are great fun too. Although I found it a little bit predictable - there was no doubt in my mind who Izzy was going to end up with - that didn't spoil my enjoyment because I was cheering for them to get together. There are laugh-out-loud moments and an enormously romantic ending. You know what I'm going to say, don't you? Yeah. Pick it up.

Rating 4 out of 5

If you like this, try Something Blue by Emily Giffin

Posted by Keris on October 13, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

BOOK REVIEW: This is Chick Lit edited by Lauren Baratz-Logsted

Chicklit As I said on Wednesday, This is Chick Lit was created when its editor, the lovely Lauren Baratz- Logsted, read about the creation of an anti-Chick Lit book, This is Not Chick Lit. Thinking that sounded bizarre (no-one calls anthologies This is Not Sci-Fi, do they?) not to mention mean-spirited, she decided to help create a positive book showcasing great chick-lit writers.

This is Chick Lit is the result.

Featuring stories from authors including Johanna Edwards, Stephanie Lehmann, Karin Gillespie and Deanna Carlyle, it's fair to say that to British readers at least, we're talking up and comers or well-known but not super-famous chick-litters. A small part of me felt that maybe a more mighty response to the "not" book would have included titans of the genre like Jennifer Weiner and Marian Keyes, but that's not to undermine any of the great writing found in this volume.

I found the book fun and easy to read, and unlike many short story collections, where I need to stop and read something else in between, I raced straight through this one, wanting to savour the next story, and the next. I really liked most of these stories, particularly Cafe Con Leche Crush by Heather Swain, Takeoffs and Landings by Johanna Edwards and Dead Friends and other Dating Dilemmas by Julie Kenner. I also really enjoyed the fact that at the start of each author's story was a brief paragraph of what chick-lit means to them, a celebration of the term. And Lauren Baratz-Logsted's introduction is positive, empowering and inspiring!

Unfortunately, I found the first story, about two writers on opposing sides of the chick-lit battleground, a great idea but handled in a rather heavy-handed way. I also felt the collection ended on quite a negative note, with a story about a spoiled whiny woman who no-one wants to marry... (Bit cliched, no?) But there's mould-breaking fiction here too, and experimental pieces like Confessions of a Three Eyed Freak by Ariella Papa demonstrate that there's far more to the genre than shoes (although there is one on the cover!), sex and shopping.

A great effort, and a more than worthy defence of Chick-Lit, if such a defence is needed.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 13, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 12, 2006 6:04 PM

BOOK REVIEW: gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson

Gods_2 Yes, the small 'g' is deliberate, and yes, this is a great read. gods in Alabama by Joshilyn Jackson (whose blog I was just recommending!) is the story of Arlene Fleet, who left a dark secret back in Alabama and ran away to Chicago after leaving high school ten years ago. When she left, she made a deal with God-with-a-big-G that she would be an exemplary human being: never lying, fornicating or returning to Alabama as long as God made sure that nobody ever found out what she'd done. But now she's under pressure to return for an important family party, not just from her relatives, but from her boyfriend Burr, too. As he's black, and many of her relatives are racist, Arlene has more than a few things to worry about as she makes the journey home to confront her past...

What a great set-up, and what a thoroughly entertaining read! I can't say too much about what happens when Arlene returns to Alabama, but I was hooked as I found out why she'd left and her family history, and at no point did I guess what might happen next or how the book might end. I'm really not sure what genre I'd put this book into: it has the complicated texture of literary fiction, the entertainment value, romance aspect and sassy heroine of chick-lit and the excitement and pace of a wonderful thriller (which Joshilyn Jackson apparently reads a lot of, so no surprise there).

Books set in the deep south seem to have so much atmosphere, and gods is no exception. It was Jackson's debut novel, and a very confident and throughly well-written debut it is. My only slight criticisms are that the story is a little far-fetched, although it's a sign of Jackson's writing that she makes it seem so believable it's only afterwards you think 'but that wouldn't really happen...?' Also, although this book is great, her second book is superlative, so I can't give this one full marks in comparison! (If you've never read her work, start here and work up). Still, a great read that I highly recommend.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Between, Georgia by Joshilyn Jackson, Welcome to Temptation by Jennifer Crusie; The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 12, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 10, 2006 4:45 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Conversations and Cosmopolitans by Robert Rave and Jane Rave

Cosom_cvr_1 I loved the idea of Conversations and Cosmopolitans: a gay man and his mother alternately discuss life, love and relationships, sharing details of their own experiences, particularly Robert coming out as gay and how that changed their family dynamic.

It promised to be sweet, witty, insightful and funny- and maybe a bit moving, too.

But was it?

I'm glad to say yes, it was! I'm a sucker for a good memoir, and this is a very good one. It made me cry in a couple of places, and some of Jane's experiences showed that sometimes straight people are looked down on for their sexuality too- which was a very interesting and unexpected angle... But mostly, it made me laugh and kept me hooked. So hooked, I read it in a day, eschewing other petty responsibilities like eating and sleeping to do so!

My favourite chapters were The End, about Robert's coming out letter (which he shares, typos and all) It's Getting Hot in Here, about Jane's first experiences of Cosmos- and meeting Rupert Everett! and The Gay Glossary, explaining gay terminology (the first made me cry, the last two made me laugh. A lot).

Conversations and Cosmopolitans could have been a bit longer though... why are good books so often so short?

Rating: 4 out of 5

PS: We're going to be bringing you an exclusive interview with Robert and Jane Rave very soon- I recommend reading the book in preparation, perhaps with a cocktail on hand...

Like this? Try Queen of the Oddballs by Hillary Carlip.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 10, 2006 in American Authors, Book related, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 5, 2006 9:53 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Happiness Sold Separately by Lolly Winston

Lolly Winston's debut, Sophie's Bakery for the Broken-Hearted (called Good Grief in the US) was a huge hit and I enjoyed it, so I was really looking forward to Happiness Sold Separately. I wasn't disappointed.

When Elinor Mackey finds out her husband Ted is having an affair it's just the most recent in a long line of disappointments. Elinor and Ted have been trying for a baby with no success and much heartbreak and their marriage has been all but dead for a while. Ted breaks off his relationship with Gina, the nutritionist at the Mackeys' gym, but then when he bumps into her and the son he didn't know she had, he finds it harder than he thought to let her go. In her husband's absence, Elinor starts sleeping under the enormous oak tree in the front garden and then, when the tree has to be cut down, she starts sleeping with the tree surgeon.

I know, it all sounds a bit far-fetched and I suppose it is. Elinor and Ted hop in and out of each other's and other people's beds, but Happiness Sold Separately is entirely believable. I've never read a book where wanting more than one person at the same time is portrayed so convincingly. I had no idea who to root for. I wanted everyone to be happy. Winston writes about the minutiae of life beautifully. So beautifully, in fact, that Happiness Sold Separately reminded me a lot of the wonderful Elizabeth Berg* and I can't pay a much higher compliment than that.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Good in Bed by Jennifer Weiner

*Someone else obviously thinks so too because the US cover styles are rather similar.

Posted by Keris on October 5, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 3, 2006 5:11 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Jane Austen's Guide to Dating

Lauren Henderson is best-known as a chick-lit writer (I can't believe we haven't reviewed any of her stuff before!) but she's also a Cambridge University graduate who wrote her second-year dissertation on courtship rituals in Jane Austen. So she's well placed to bring us Jane Austen's Guide to Dating (or Jane Austen's Guide to Romance if you have the paperback!)

A mixture of case studies from Austen's novels and real people from the twenty-first century illustrate the points that Henderson has to make about dating. There are ten important principles, from 'If you like someone, make it clear that you do,' to 'If your lover needs a reprimand, let him have it.' I've never really considered Austen's novels in terms of what we can put into practice in our own lives, so I was interested in this new angle. Plus, as a single girl, I wondered if I'd learn a thing or two...

Which is funny, because the most interesting part of the book for me was the refresher course in Austen. Like Henderson, I love Emma and Pride and Prejudice, so I really enjoyed the extra insight into those novels, and it was exciting to discover (in the 'which Austen character are you?' quiz in the back of the book) that I'm Elizabeth Bennet- who knew?! There's also a 'which Austen character is he??' quiz and a guide to all the novels and the main characters in the back of the book, which is very handy and means you could get something out of this book even if you'd never read a word of Austen. (Although why wouldn't you have, huh?!)

That's not to say that the dating part of the book is worthless, though. Henderson is very sensible. And as a survivor of the legendarily tough New York dating scene, she knows her stuff. The real-life love examples are interesting and fit in well with the lessons from Austen. However, there's nothing very revolutionary here- the advice can pretty much be boiled down to: be yourself, don't play games, have a life outside of your relationship and follow your heart. It seemed like some of the same lessons were repeated and I'm just not sure how useful a reasonably intelligent singleton looking for love would find this. Also, I flinch a little at the idea of Austen's work being appropriated in this way. Lauren Henderson's right that Austen had very clear and sensible ideas about love, and I know Henderson realises there's much more to Austen than that- but doesn't using her work in this way play into the hands of everyone who dismisses her as 'just' a romance writer? (I have no problem with romance writers, but Jane Austen had more to say than that).

But I'm just indulging in some minor quibbling! This book is an enjoyable opportunity to revisit Austen, and gives an insight into other people's love lifes that you may learn something from. Any Janeite would enjoy this, whether looking for love for not.

Rtaing: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Flirting with Pride and Prejudice; Getting Personal by Chris Manby.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on October 3, 2006 in British Authors, Classic Novels, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 28, 2006 9:26 AM

BOOK REVIEW: But Enough About Me by Jancee Dunn

Jancee Dunn has been a Rolling Stone reporter and an MTV veejay and But Enough About Me is a memoir mixed with anecdotes - often disguised as tips - about interviewing rock stars. (For example, 'It can be done: manipulating your way into the kitchen cabinet' heads the story of how Jancee managed to talk Dolly Parton into showing her around her apartment.)

Growing up in New Jersey as part of an extremely close family, Jancee never dreamt she'd one day be flying around the world interviewing rock stars for the world's most famous music magazine and after reading But Enough About Me I can't quite believe it either. Read on to find out why not.

Given her background, I expected Jancee to be cool. She's not. Well, she is in that this book is honest and funny, but not in the way you would expect a Rolling Stone writer to be, i.e. she's a self-confessed dork. She seems too nice, too sweet, too shy to have had such an amazing career and you don't really get much of an indication from the book as to how she managed it. One minute she's an assistant at Rolling Stone, the next she's got her first interview and then she's off. It's not all sweetness though, there are some dodgy boyfriends and an unfortunate cocaine episode (of course), but there's very little celebrity dirt-dishing. Funnily enough though - particularly for a showbiz gossip-hound like myself - the best bits of the book are the memoir parts rather than the rock star parts (Ha! Rock star parts. Sorry.).

Jancee has the most charming family and the bits about her sisters (whether about their childhood or their relationships as adults) and parents are lovely. In fact, rather than wishing I worked at Rolling Stone (I would never, never, want to interview Johnny Rotten, let alone have that be my first interview, as was the case for Jancee) I was left with an extreme case of family envy. The only off-note for me was that the romantic subplot (with, of course, a happy ending) seemed unnecessary. Can't we ever have a book about a strong, capable, successful woman which doesn't end with her living happily ever after with a man? Having said that, by the end of the book I felt like I knew Jancee and really wanted her to get her happily ever after.

If you're at all interested in music or journalism or even if you remember the Eighties (although if you can remember the Eighties you weren't really there, right?), you'll love this charming and funny book.

Jancee also has a great blog where you can read outtakes from the book and watch clips of her time on MTV (if you can get them to work, which I can't).

(I've included both the UK and US book covers because I much prefer the US cover for once.)

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Tabloid Love by Bridget Harrison

Posted by Keris on September 28, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 27, 2006 11:39 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Mama Lama Ding Dong by Ayun Halliday

Ayunhalliday With both novels and real-life stories of bad motherhood ("bad" in this sense meaning not aspiring to Bree Van De Kamp levels of anal retentiveness, let's face it) being so fashionable right now, Ayun Halliday's Mama Lama Ding Dong is very timely.

An improvisational theatre performer and fully-fledged arty hippie type, Ayun is the epitome of laid-back motherhood. Her relaxed attitude to germs, mess and stress is very refreshing! In this memoir (her fifth, but the first to be published in the UK), she talks about her unique approach to motherhood, her life before and after children- and some rather intimate details of her two labours. But as I've said more than once, I'm not really the maternal type, so this kind of book has to be really good to keep me hooked! Read on to see if it was...

Breathe a sigh of relief Trashionistas, because this is a motherhood memoir that any woman can enjoy! (Although the mention of a mucous plug might be just a little TMI for some tastes...) Mama Lama... is a feel good story about being yourself and having fun- even if you have children or are on the verge of giving birth! Ayun and her family are loving and happy, but far from conventional- they dress their little boy in girls' clothes if they fit him and look cute and their little girl was born with an extra thumb! Plus, their ultra-aggressive cat has an embarrassing sexual fetish..

At the same time as being offbeat and entertaining, the book is also very realistic about the stresses of family life (and the tendency for a mother's needs to always come second to their children's). Ayun admits to walking down the street, breasts flapping, completely unaware, because she was so used to breastfeeding she'd forgotten to check she wasn't exposing herself as she strolled... she also knows some people might disapprove of the fact that her kitchen floor isn't anything like clean, despite her efforts. And she admits to jealousy over her husband's freedom, even though she wants him to work. But she does her best!

Divided into sections including "The Daily Grind" (pretty self-explanatory- the day to day details of full-time motherhood) "The Way We Were" (the birth stories of Halliday's two children- including her daughter's traumatic delivery and stay in the neo-natal ward) and "Hot Dates" (the fun, or in some cases "fun", of holiday seasons with kids in tow), if this book doesn't fill you with admiration for the difficult job of parents, I don't know what will.

But it's about much more than that- a popular author and founder of handwritten zine The East Village Inky, Ayun Halliday's creative drive is impressive and inspiring, too. She has even taken advantage of the trend for virtual book tours to promote this book- turning full-time motherhood into a great force for innovation! Read it and weep- I mean laugh.

Rating: 4 out of 5

*Did you know?* This is one of those name-change books, originally titled The Big Rumpus in the USA (you can read an extract there <<).

More about the book and the author (and her family).

Like this? Try Having It and Eating It by Sabine Durrant.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 27, 2006 in American Authors, Memoirs, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (3)

September 26, 2006 12:06 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Never Say Never by Melissa Hill

Melissahill Never Say Never by Melissa Hill is a fantastic read for anyone who has ever thought ‘I wonder what we’ll all be doing in 5 years time?’. Telling the story of group of friends who met at college, and are still more-or-less friends many years later, this book is set mainly in Ireland, (as about 98% of chick lit seems to be these days!) and will have you thinking in an Irish accent long before the end.

The group of friends provides all the traditional characters; the single mum, the all-work-and-no-play entrepreneur, the new mother who neglects her friends combined with childless and proud, the ‘living abroad so too good for the old town’, and explores how the experiences they’ve had over the years change their relationships for better or worse.

The three main characters, Leah, Robin and Olivia, show how fate has played a part in changing their lives. With a fantastic twist to the plot that I don’t think even the most suspicious reader would guess, nothing is ever quite what it seems until the very end. To get you there, there’s something for everyone with some very fanciable male characters and some inspiring and irritating women!

What I particularly enjoyed was understanding how the characters react to the events that shape their lives – some people can take everything in their stride and some let things wear away at them until they define who they are. It’s a good reminder that not everyone sees the world in the same way – and that it’s important to keep talking…

There are parts of the book that feel a little like the author kept her options open for as long as possible when deciding how the book should end – but as long as you don’t mind occasionally wanting to shake at least one of the characters to tell them to ‘snap out of it’, it’s a good read. [Emma Tazewell].

Rating: 4 out of 5 – another few chapters on the end and it would have been full marks.

Like this? Try Why Not? by Shari Low; Angels by Marian Keyes.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 26, 2006 in Girly Stuff, Irish Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Princess Diaries Seventh Heaven by Meg Cabot

As you might have noticed, we love Meg Cabot around here, but her adult books don't sell anywhere near as many copies as her young adult books, particularly the Princess Diaries series, so we felt it was time we reviewed one. And, luckily for us, there's a new one out - the seventh Princess Diaries novel - Seventh Heaven.

Don't be put off by the fact that these books are aimed at young adults (we're certainly not) - this series, featuring reluctant princess Mia Thermopolis, is chock-full of Cabot's trademark humour and charm and should be read by young and, um, not-so-young alike. (In fact Marian Keyes recommended the Princess Diaries books when I last spoke to her .. yeah, okay, it was at a Waterstone's reading.)

Seventh Heaven sees Mia's grandmere at her Machiavellian best, Mia falling out both with best friend Lilly and boyfriend Michael (by trying to turn herself into a 'party girl') and a rejection for Mia's story No More Corn! (about The Boy Who Hates It When They Put Corn In The Chilli).

What I love the most about this series is all the characters - even minor ones like Mia's bodyguard Lars or Michael and Lilly's parents The Drs Moscovitz - feel like old friends. For days after I finished reading this book (and I read it in a day) I found myself looking forward to getting back to it and then being disappointed to remember I'd finished it. Luckily, Cabot is so prolific I won't have to wait long for the next one.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Related posts - What we thought of Meg's Size 12 Is Not Fat and Queen of Babble / Chick Lit for Little Chicks

Posted by Keris on September 26, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Series, Young Adult | Permalink | Comments (11)

September 25, 2006 12:35 PM

BOOK REVIEW: You Could Do Better by Stephanie Lehmann

Recently we mentioned Stephanie Lehmann's television-obsessed blog and now she's written a television-obsessed book.

You Could Do Better is described as '... an irresistible new novel about a woman trying to choose between the man of her dreams - and her fiance ...' If you can resist a line like that, you're a better woman than me. Hop over the cut to see if the book lives up to it.

Daphne works as a curator at the Museum of Television and Radio in New York, so obsession with TV is part of her job. But she also uses TV as a way to avoid engaging in real life (who doesn't?!) - her parents are dead, her former supermodel sister Billie is a mess and sex with her boyfriend Charlie is only average.

But when Charlie proposes Daphne almost misses it because she's too busy watching a fictional proposal on TV. Luckily she catches on and accepts but then when Charlie starts to lose patience with her television habit and she meets a sexy and available TV producer, Daphne starts to wonder if maybe she's settling for Charlie .. if perhaps she could do better.

I really loved this book. Daphne could be an unlikeable character, but her worries are so relateable and understandable I didn't find her unlikeable at all. Stephanie Lehmann weaves real TV shows seamlessly into the plot - and has some interesting things to say about the history of US sitcoms - and has created a very foxy hero in Jonathan Hill.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Pug Hill by Alison Pace

Posted by Keris on September 25, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (3)

September 22, 2006 11:46 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Mr Nice Guy by Thomas Dowler

Thomasdowler Just two days ago, I was asking if men can write romantic fiction and now I get to weigh in with my opinion as I review Thomas Dowler's debut novel, Mr Nice Guy. The story of the book is as interesting as any fiction: we covered it a few weeks ago, but to recap- fed up of getting rejections on his manuscript, Thomas took things into his own hands and is self-publishing, giving away his debut novel as a FREE! e-book and audio book, via his website. It's also available to buy, and being an old-fashioned sort (I much prefer books in paper form), that's the format I chose to review...

The story of Dan Fisher, who is dumped by girlfriend Claudia for being "too nice", and re-thinks his outlook on life and love as a result, it's an attempt to move into Nick Hornby/Mike Gayle/Tony Parsons territory... But does it work?

Well, yes, pretty much! I'd say this book is more on the Mike Gayle side of things, but I certainly enjoyed it more than Tony Parsons' latest. If I had one criticism it would be that Dowler seems to be trying to appeal to everyone- without being too stereotypical, most women (or women like me, anyway) don't want to read the detail of a football match or know about anyone's toilet schedule, or worse, their masturbation schedule. (This is only a VERY small part of the book, but more than one reference to each bodily fluid should be an author's limit, in my opinion!)

I just think if the author had tailored the book slightly more to what a female audience wants to read, it would have been straight-up chick lit from a bloke's perspective rather than trying to appeal to men and women. Men might still enjoy it too- but "know your audience" is what I'm saying, I guess!

That makes it sound like I have reservations about this book, but I really don't. The main plot and sub-plots were well-written, the characters well-drawn and likeable except where they're not supposed to be, and Dan is a nice guy- but not unbelievably or sickeningly so. It's written in a very pacey, snappy style, with short chapters which I enjoyed and never felt jarred by. In fact, I felt the book was brilliantly paced as I never got bored or wished we were with another character. I enjoyed the fact that I knew what would happen at the end of the book- but I was still kept guessing a little, and there were some unexpected twists and turns... it wasn't predictable but it did deliver the happy ending I hoped for.

As to why a publisher hasn't jumped all over this novel, I'm really not sure. It's certainly better than several of the books I've read in the last two months (mentioning no names...) and I can see lots of people enjoying it. I wish Thomas Dowler lots of luck in the future, and if anyone's looking for a male perspective on love, I'd happily direct them to Mr Nice Guy.

Can men write about romance? You betcha!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Mr Commitment by Mike Gayle.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 22, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (3)

BOOK REVIEW: Gulp! by Gabriella Goddard

A little while ago we hosted author Gabriella Goddard on her virtual book tour to promote Gulp! Gulp! is a "seven day crash course to master fear and break through any challenge", something I sure most of us would love to be able to do.

Before I do anything else though, let me remind you of our Gulp! competition. We've got two copies of Gulp! to give away and to win one all you have to do is email us at editor@trashionista.com and tell us about the challenge you would take on with the help of Gulp! Our favourites - or those we think most need Gabriella's help - will win a copy.

Carry on over the cut to see what I thought of Gulp!

The seven day course which Gabriella outlined in her own post is explained, summarised and recapped - so even complicated issues (and there are some) are easy to understand. Each chapter ends with a practice - questions for you to complete so that you can see how the ideas apply to your situation. This is followed by an Action Plan which includes my favourite thing about Gulp! - there are different actions depending on "the size of your Gulp! and how nervous the situation makes you feel": Espresso, Mediano and Grande. This is great for someone impatient like me. I can start with Espresso and work my way up to Grande.

I've read a lot of self-help books and the problem is that it all makes perfect sense and seems inspiring when you read it, but then you stop reading, go back to life and forget all about it .. until you find yourself buying another self-help book. What I'm saying is, it's hard to say if Gulp! works, but it's certainly interesting and thought-provoking - I have marked an awful lot of pages to return to - and if you follow Gabriella's advice, I'm confident you'll be able to crack any challenge.

Posted by Keris on September 22, 2006 in Competition, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Self development | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 18, 2006 7:22 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: The Diving-Bell and the Butterfly by Jean-Dominique Bauby

Jean-Dominique Bauby was the editor-in-chief of French Elle and the father of two young children when he had a stroke that left him completely paralysed with "locked-in syndrome". In other words, he had full consciousness, but was unable to move anything except for blinking one eye (the other eye was sewn shut to prevent infection).

Someone - he doesn't explain who - came up with a system in which the alphabet is rearranged in order of the letters used most frequently in French and then the person with whom he wanted to communicate would read this alphabet and Bauby would blink to alert them to stop at the required letter. And in that manner the entire book was dictated. I know. It's incredible. But is it readable? Carry on over the cut to find out.

I heard about this book years ago and have always wanted to read it, but I was put off - in a strange way - by my expectation that it would contain some secret of life, some advice on how to live that perhaps I wasn't ready for (who wants to know how to live when there's so much good stuff on the TV?!) and at first I was disappointed that it didn't.

I expected Bauby to be serene and accepting and wise and he really isn't. He's just a man, trapped in a failing body, angry that he's missing out on his life and upsetting his friends and family, annoyed when an orderly forgets to turn off the TV, and, by the end of the book I found that just as inspiring as whatever life lessons I thought he might provide.

What this book teaches and what I believe Bauby wanted to convey is that this could happen to anyone at any time. The things he thinks about aren't big life questions, but lighthouses, beaches, a cup of coffee with a friend. In other words, the things we all take for granted.

So, yes, the lesson of the book is take time to smell the roses because, well, you know, we're all dying - in other words, something we all know anyway - but the incredible lenghs Bauby went to to get the message across reinforces the fact that we really should pay attention. No matter what's on TV.

Posted by Keris on September 18, 2006 in Memoirs, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (6)

September 13, 2006 11:47 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Twelve Sharp by Janet Evanovich

Twelve Sharp is the latest in Janet Evanovich's enormously popular Stephanie Plum series.

I usually like to save Evanovich's books for a long journey or holiday and then read them in one sitting and while I didn't manage that with this one, it was still great fun to find myself in the company of Stephanie, Morelli, Ranger and Grandma Mazur again. (Do you know, I can't quite believe they don't really exist!)

Remember Ranger has a daughter? No? Neither did I, but he has and in Twelve Sharp she's been kidnapped by a Ranger wannabe. With the police after him for his daughter's abduction, the real Ranger has to go into hiding and so Stephanie finds herself both looking for Ranger's daughter and on the trail of fake-Ranger while avoiding fake-Ranger's wife (who isn't too keen on Stephanie's relationship with real-Ranger) and trying to convince Morelli that her relationship with (real-)Ranger is purely professional.

It's not quite as confusing as it sounds and it's not quite as fabulous as some of Evanovich's earlier books, but a below-par Plum book is still considerably more entertaining than many other books out there.

If you like this, try The Rocky Road to Romance by Janet Evanovich and Fashion Victim by Sam Baker

Posted by Keris on September 13, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 7, 2006 12:07 PM

BOOK REVIEW: My (So-Called) Normal Life by Erin Zammett

Erinzammett A few years ago I followed Erin Zammett's monthly diary in American Glamour (which I read avidly at the time) with great interest but I have to admit that a strong selling factor in this book's favour was its title's similarity to my favourite TV programme of the 1990s. (Shallow, me?)

When Erin Zammett was 23, she had everything she could have hoped for: a close family, loving boyfriend, fantastic friends and fabulous job on the staff at U.S Glamour in NYC. Then she went to a routine doctor's check-up and was told she had cancer. And not just any cancer: CML, a chronic form of leukaemia with a survival rate of 30% at best. "No symptoms, no heads-up, just cancer handed to me on a perfectly nice Tuesday afternoon."

Determined to try anything to beat her odds, Erin wrangled a place on a trial for a new and revolutionary cancer drug, Gleevec. If it worked, it would give her many years of good health. But there was a downside: she's have to travel to Portland, Oregon (ie. the other side of the country) regularly for monitoring, it might make her infertile, and she'd have to take it for the rest of her life.

I can understand the market for 'sob story' cancer memoirs (especially where the outcome is bad or uncertain) but this book isn't one of them. It's actually more about love and appreciating life than it is about cancer- not in a nauseating 'I'm glad I got ill' kind of way, but in the sense that being ill gave Zammett the chance to stop and appreciate all the good things in her life, which she admits she never did before. This book is hopeful, but down-to-earth and very personal, written in a warm style, with lots of humour. I loved the portrait of a large, close-knit family, and the stories and pictures of Erin's family weaved throughout the book. I also admired Erin's honesty in describing the strain cancer can put on a romantic relationship!

I hope the author will write much more about her experiences in future- but that those experiences no longer include a struggle with CML.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try My Life So Far by Jane Fonda, Tabloid Love by Bridget Harrison.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on September 7, 2006 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

September 6, 2006 7:33 AM

BOOK REVIEW: How Opal Mehta Got Kissed, Got Wild, and Got a Life by Kaavya Viswanathan

I know, I know, I'm reviewing this very late in the day, but I bought it (in Canada) after reading that all copies had been pulled and so it was selling for up to $100 on ebay. In reality, you can buy it on Amazon from £1.50. So I need to get my money's worth from somewhere.

Plus I've read a lot about the Kaavya Viswanathan scandal, but very little about whether it's actually a good book, so I decided to go ahead and read it. Hop over the cut to see what I thought.

I have to say, I really enjoyed it. Now I know chunks of it were plagiarised, but what wasn't pinched (as far as we know) was the basic storyline and, in my opinion, it's a good one. Opal Mehta has worked towards Harvard her whole life (full disclosure: this reminded me a little too much of Rory Gilmore for comfort, but let's brush that aside). The one thing Opal's never thought about is fun so when at her Harvard interview the Dean of Admissions asks her what she enjoys doing she's stumped. Afraid that the family dream is in danger, Opal's parents instigate operation HOWGAL - How Opal Will Get A Life, buying teen magazines, taping TV shows like The O.C., listening to 50 Cent and giving Opal a stunning makeover. And it works, for a time, but we all know that she's going to have to realise she needs to be herself, don't we?

I liked Opal and I really liked the love interest Sean Whalen, but the best thing about this book for me was Opal's parents. I really think they are a great comedy creation and it's a shame we'll never see them on the big screen (since, of course, Viswanathan's film deal with Dreamworks was cancelled along with her publishing contract).

It's also interesting to read this book knowing how it parallels Kaavya Viswanathan experience. Like Opal, she attends Harvard and, like Opal, she's now been involved in a scandal that surely has everyone in college whispering about her. Plus, like Opal, she should have just been herself rather than trying to copy someone else. Ha! You see, it could have all just been a clever promotional idea (if it hadn't been for all the books being withdrawn from sale).

Still - this may be an unfashionable opinion, but I feel sorry for Viswanathan. She is so young, she got a huge (and therefore hugely intimidating) contract, she was presumably under immense pressure to deliver a saleable book and she made a series of really stupid mistakes. But you'd have to be pretty heartless to read 'This is her first novel' on the back of the book and, knowing it's likely to also be her last, not feel a little bit sad.

If you like this, try The Make-up Girl by Andrea Semple or The Boyfriend List by E Lockhart (try it even if you don't like this cos it's fab).

Posted by Keris on September 6, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (8)

September 1, 2006 10:58 AM

BOOK REVIEW: See Jane Write by Sarah Mlynowski, Farrin Jacobs

So you loved Sarah Mlynowski's novels (Milkrun, As Seen on TV, Fishbowl, Monkey Business and most recently Me vs. Me) but as you read them you had this nagging feeling. "I could write a book like this," you thought. "But where would I begin? If only a writer and her editor would share their stories and give me friendly advice..." Then - behold - you find See Jane Write, a Girls' Guide to Writing Chick Lit by Sarah Mlynowski and Farrin Jacobs. Could this be what it takes to convert you from avid reader to bestselling author?

Continue over the cut to find out.

The book is full of sound advice from big names. Sarah Mlynowski is the main one, of course - she's a bestselling author who also used to work for Harlequin. The co-writer, Farrin Jacobs, is an ex-Red Dress Ink editor. Other participants, with quotes peppered throughout, include Meg Cabot, Emily Giffin, Marian Keyes and Sophie Kinsella.

Part 1 of See Jane Write contains general information such as the history of Chick Lit and advice about how to get writing and stop making excuses. Part 2 gets into the nitty gritty: writing tips, style hints and how to submit.

I found this book fun and friendly. It didn't really say anything I hadn't read in other How To Write books (except the 'What is Chick Lit' part and the section on avoiding Chick Lit cliches), but it laid everything out in an approachable and interesting way, and I loved the sidebars (especially "It Happened To Me", with anecdotes from Sarah Mlynowski's writing life). The advice on publishers etc., however, is entirely US-centric and probably not much use for a UK author (unless you're targeting US markets).

It's great to read a how-to-write book that concentrates entirely and entertainingly on this genre and doesn't tell you off for using first person present tense. See Jane Write is also worth reading for the discussion of Chick Lit labels ("Assistant Lit", anyone?) and the ridiculous prejudice against Chick Lit (quote: "Although one BBC critic attacked chick lit by claiming the novels 'merely hold up a mirror to women's lives,' we say, 'Yeah, so what?'").

Read it and... write!

[Luisa Plaja]

Posted by Keris on September 1, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 31, 2006 10:45 AM

PREVIEW REVIEW: The Guy Not Taken by Jennifer Weiner

Jenniferweiner2 Yep, it's not even out yet and already we have a review for you- how good are we to you ? (Clue: very). The Guy Not Taken is out next Tuesday in the U.S (September 30 via Amazon in the UK), and... I highly recommend it! A collection of stories formerly stuffed into shopping bags in Jennifer Weiner's spare room(!) her agent suggested she might want to think about maybe... publishing them. (After a little updating, of course!)

And thank goodness she did! They're full of Jennifer Weiner's trademark humour, warmth and poignancy and the majority are very real and entertaining.

The collection opens with a trilogy about the Krystal family at different times of their lives, the first of which was written while Weiner was at university, the last very recently to tie up the loose ends. It's fascinating to see the threads of her novels in the earlier two stories- I noticed aspects of both In Her Shoes and Good In Bed. There's also a story (called Good Men) about Bruce and Cannie, the main characters of Good In Bed, which is told from Bruce's point of view. I loved this insight into the author's creative process, and the fact that she's sharing these steps in the development of her writing. There were one or two stories I didn't feel would stand alone as narratives, however...

Dora on the Beach seemed very unlikely and quite silly and the eponymous heroine is weedy to say the least- 62 is too young to be acting like a little old lady! Some of the stories are slices of life where nothing much happens and I can see that they'd be better suited to being part of a novel, although they're still very well-written. The best two stories in the book are Oranges From Florida, a very moving story of divorce from a father's perspective which is gently heartbreaking, and The Mother's Hour- a pacey and slightly shocking tale.

Despite some stories being stronger than others, the book works as a whole and is very entertaining. It's a treat for Jennifer Weiner fans who love her previous work, but newbies would get a lot out of it, too. Although I raced through (er, I mean savoured slowly!) the stories, my favourite part of the book was actually the "Notes on Stories" at the back of the book, sharing some of the gossip behind the writing process. I'd love to have read even more of this and would like to formally suggest to JW's publishers that her next between-novels project be a work of non-fiction essays about her life and writing (they don't even have to pay me for the idea!) It's certainly whetted by appetite for her next novel, and left me wondering if any of the ideas from her more recent stories will be showing up in her future work... you can bet I'll keep reading to find out.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? The Wonder Spot by Melissa Bank, In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 31, 2006 in American Authors, Book News, Book related, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (7)

August 29, 2006 12:04 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Mr Starlight by Laurie Graham

Lauriegraham Laurie Graham used to write about ordinary working-class folk with wit, humour and pathos (Dog Days, Glen Miller Nights being a wonderful and sadly out-of-print example) but now she's carved out a new and very successful niche: Brits in America. Mr Starlight is a typical example- the story of Liberace, if Liberace had a touch of the Des O' Connors about him and was raised in a townhouse in Birmingham, that is...

Self-styled 'Mr Starlight' and king of the working men's clubs, singer Selywn Boff is determined to make it big- and that means America. Dragging his reluctant piano player/older brother Cledwyn behind him, the Boff brothers begin to make their mark on the States- but not quite as fast as Sel would like. He decides Cled is holding him back- and Cled decides he can do without his bossy upstart of a brother- it's not as if Sel's ever going to make it really big!

Is he?

Well, a good-looking man with charisma, an exotic (well, to Americans!) accent and whose crooning drives the girls crazy is never going to be down on his luck for long- let's put it that way!

This is a wonderful book, with great dialogue, vividly-drawn characters and a great pace. Although what happens to Sel is beyond the dreams of most people who grew up with a tin bath and an absent father in the Midlands circa World War Two, Sel's rise to fame seems realistic within the context of this novel. The surrounding characters are kept reassuringly down to earth, for example when Cledwyn returns home after five years away, his 'mam' is in a bad mood because he didn't let them know he'd be coming: "You'll have to have shop bought biscuits," she strops, with, as his sister says, "a face like a trod chip."

The book is told from Cledwyn's point of view, which makes for added irony, as he's not quite the reliable narrator. Completely oblivious to Sel's secret sexual preferences (well, the spangly suits and non-existent girlfriends weren't really a clue, were they?!) and in denial about his own talent and popularity with women, he's spent his life in Selwyn's shadow.

The book roves from 1928 up to the early 1990s, and kept me hooked throughout. The ending is funny, sad and poignant and I'm not ashamed to say I shed a tear. I almost felt like Mr Starlight was real, and he's one of those few characters who'll stay with me long after I've finished the book. I highly recommend you let him charm you, too.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Prizewinner of Defiance, Ohio by Terry Ryan.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 29, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 28, 2006 9:31 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: Blue Shoes and Happiness by Alexander McCall Smith

Blue Shoes and Happiness is the seventh in Alexander McCall Smith's enormously popular No.1 Ladies' Detective Agency series. I have read and loved each of the previous books even though once I've read them I find I don't remember much about them, except an urge to smile every time I think about the world of Mma Ramotswe, Mma Makutsi and Mr JLB Matekoni. If you haven't yet discovered the series, well, you've got a treat in store. If you have then read on to see if this latest story meets expectations.

Mma Ramotswe is a "traditionally built" (i.e. large) woman who runs the No.1 Ladies Detective Agency (Botswana's only ladies' detective agency). Her assistant, Mma Makutsi graduated with 97% from Bostwana Secretarial College and her husband, Mr JLB Matekoni owns Tlokweng Road Speedy Motors and tries to control his two apprentices.

In Blue Shoes and Happiness there's a crisis for Mma Makutsi when she reveals to her fiance that she is in fact a feminist, a doctor tampers with his patients blood pressure measurements, a cook sneaks government food out to feed her husband, and Mma Ramotswe starts to think she might be too traditionally built and should, perhaps, go on a diet!

The cases brought to the detective agency are usually very mild and don't take much detecting (as Mma Makutsi points out in this book, most of them are solved by Mma Ramotswe asking someone a direct question), but you don't read these books for the intrigue, more for the descriptions of Botswana and the gentle humour and charm of the stories.

I enjoyed this book as I have enjoyed them all. They're perfect books for curling up with and just drifting away to another place.

Posted by Keris on August 28, 2006 in British Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Series | Permalink | Comments (2)

August 22, 2006 10:58 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Ex and the Single Girl by Lani Diane Rich

Although I've ranted about punning titles before and this one's a doozy (though not quite as bad as Valerie Frankel's Hex and the Single Girl), I love Lani Diane Rich's books so I'll forgive it (just this once).

When Portia Fallon's boyfriend, Peter, dumps her via a handwritten note on the title page of his own unsuccessful novel, it sends her into an understandable decline. So she's in a weakened state when her mother phones and begs her to come home to Georgia and help her and the other Miz Fallons (her aunt Vera and grandmother Bev) with the family bookstore. But when Portia gets there she finds that she's not really needed - the Miz Fallons have a plan.

Getting Portia home was just a scam to fix her up with Ian, a British novelist who is in town working on his latest book. The Miz Fallons think he's perfect for a fling (or a "Flyer" in their vernacular) to help her get over Peter; Portia's not so sure Ian couldn't be more, but she's afraid that she (and the other Miz Fallons) are "Penis Teflon", i.e. men don't stick.

Like Jennifer Crusie, Lani Diane Rich is fabulous at the quirky characters and Ex and the Single Girl is full of them. Portia is funny and real and Ian is sexy (though why American authors think all British men are called Ian - there's British Ians in Alison Pace's If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend and Melissa Bank's The Wonder Spot - is beyond me). Still Ex and the Single Girl is a fun and fast read about following your heart and finding your place in the world.

Like this? Try Jennifer Crusie's Welcome to Temptation

Posted by Keris on August 22, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

August 21, 2006 10:00 AM

MORE ON MONDAY: How to Lose Friends and Alienate People by Toby Young

Tobyyoung How to Lose Friends and Alienate People is a hilarious book, which makes you root for the author- but find him frequently annoying and offensive, too! Toby Young moved to New York when he got the cream of journalism assignments: contributing editor at Vanity Fair. Unfortunately, he chose to interpret the 'smart-casual' dress code as meaning 'turn up in old jeans and a Keanu Reeves t-shirt with a lewd slogan on the front'.

And thus the alienation began...

This is car-crash reading: even someone who knows nothing about journalism or American society shouldn't make the kind of career-suicide mistakes that Young does. And so it's not surprising that things don't quite work out for him on the other side of the pond. He's brazen, lecherous, inappropriate at every turn- and doesn't really work that hard. Why does he squander the biggest opportunity of his life like this? I'm not sure he even knows himself.

Clearly, although it didn't work out for him in at Vanity Fair, it has worked out for him in the publishing world, as this gossipy memoir was a big hit both here and in the U.S (they love laughing at us crazy Brits!) Reading this book, you've got to admire Toby Young's shamelessness and ability to laugh at himself- if I'd made half this number of stupid mistakes, I wouldn't even tell my closest friends; he tells the world.

If you're interested in America, the magazine world, or crazy Brits behaving badly, then you'll love this book... although the behaviour of its author might well baffle you!

*Watch a 'meet the author' video of Toby Young talking about this book and its sequel, The Sound of No Hands Clapping. *

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Marry Me by Carey Marx.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 21, 2006 in British Authors, Memoirs, More On Monday, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

BOOK REVIEW: Little Lady, Big Apple by Hester Browne

Gemma really loved Hester Browne's debut novel The Little Lady Agency so I jumped at the chance to read the sequel: Little Lady, Big Apple. Of course, me being me, I had to read the first book first so off I went to the library (where it was shelved, inexplicably, in Crime).

For those like me who haven't read it, The Little Lady Agency is about uber-efficient secretary Melissa who is made redundant and sets up her own etiquette and grooming agency. She isn't confident enough to run it herself so she creates a much stricter, sexier, alter-ego named Honey (with the assistance of foxy underwear and a blonde wig). But when she finds herself falling for her favourite client, American real estate hotshot, Jonathan, she has to retire Honey for the good of their relationship. Like Gemma, I loved it. So I fully expected to love Little Lady, Big Apple too. Read on to see if I did.

Little Lady, Big Apple finds Melissa, not surprisingly, in New York. Jonathan's returned to New York for a promotion and Melissa's flatmate Nelson's gone off to sea and is getting his apartment remodelled, so Jonathan invites Melissa over for a holiday. But stuck in New York while Jonathan works all hours and with only his friends and the spectre of his evil/perfect ex-wife for company (oh and a small dog named Braveheart) - and with her bolshy sister and scatty best-friend in charge of her beloved agency - Melissa finds it harder than she expected to leave Honey behind.

Sequels are tricky and I realised a little too late that it may have been better for me not to have read the first to see if this works on its own. I'm pretty sure it does. Browne manages to bring us up to date with what's been happening in Melissa's life without repeating great chunks of the first book, a difficult thing to do.

There were just a couple of sour notes for me: I felt Melissa let everyone walk all over her for far too long - I found myself shouting at her to grow a spine; and, like Bridget's Mark Darcy and Becky Bloomwood's Luke, Jonathan (and, for that matter, Nelson) both treats and talks to Melissa as if she's a child ("I'm really not going to tell you again.") And what's worse is that, not only does she not seem to notice, she actually responds to it.

But those concerns aside I really did enjoy this. It's a testament to the strength and charm of the characters that when I sat down to read I felt I was catching up with old friends (even though I only read the first book last week). It's fun, funny and sweet and with Melissa, her friends and her family, Hester Browne has created a crowd of memorable characters of whom I hope we'll be seeing more.

If you like this, try The Secret Dreamworld of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Posted by Keris on August 21, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 14, 2006 4:30 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Faking It by Jennifer Crusie

I've always considered "Welcome to Temptation" to be Jennifer Crusie's best book, so I was very interested in reading the sort-of sequel, Jennifercrusie Faking It. Taking up with the life and career (if you can call theft a career option) of Davy Dempsey, the charming scoundrel from Welcome... Faking It is the story of struggling artist Tilda Goodnight and her family. She's not struggling in the usual sense of starving in a garret- rather she's struggling to keep her artistic and personal integrity in the face of family pressures. She desperately needs cash to pay the mortgage on the family art gallery so she's selling her soul copying famous paintings onto rich people's walls- but has a basement full of art that she can't sell for mysterious reasons... When her niece accidentally sells one of the forbidden artworks, things seem to be getting worse and worse. Tilda's bored, tired and put upon, so the last thing she needs is to bump into Davy Dempsey in a darkened cupboard when they're both trying to steal the same painting.

Things get even more complicated as Tilda and Davy's paths keep crossing, and she becomes suspicious of his motives- is he trying to discover her dark secrets? Is he hiding something of his own? Are they really attracted to each other- or is one of them Faking It?

You know I'm not going to tell you the answers! But I will tell you what a GREAT book this is. It's not up there with Temptation, but it's close- and fans of that book will love the way Crusie's fleshed out the character of Davy. As you expect from this author, there's love, sex (oh yes! - and no-one writes it better than Crusie), excitement, scandal and lots of dastardly double-dealings along the way to a happy ending. She excels at creating offbeat characters with hearts of gold, and there's plenty of them here: from a precocious teen with a Lucille Ball fixation to a cross-dressing brother in law. But they're just part of the fun! Crusie's wit and the heat between Davy and Tilda (short for Matilda, if you're wondering) make this a fabulous read for summer- or any other time. If you're a Crusie fan, if you wanted to know more about Davy after Welcome to Temptation, or if you just like intelligent, fast-paced, funny and sexy women's fiction (and if you don't...?) you'll really like this book.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Welcome to Temptation by Jennifer Crusie, Don't Look Down by Jennifer Crusie and Bob Meyer.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 14, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: The Journal of Mortifying Moments by Robyn Harding

Jmm_1 There aren’t many of us who could raise our hands to the heavens and say, ‘I don’t like a bit of gossip.’ If given the opportunity to read someone else’s diary, would you? If it was right there in front of you, covered in a sweet jacket of bright pink and emblazoned with those delicious words, ‘The Journal of Mortifying Moments’, how could you resist?

I couldn’t. Okay, so it isn’t the scandalous diary of a best friend who has clearly been up to all sorts but instead is the debut novel from author Robyn Harding.

It’s just one of those books that has to be read. You see it, you want it. Anything with a title like that is a must-read, right? Well, I had a peek, and let’s just say it's one heck of a brilliant read.

Ad-agency worker Kerry Spence is stuck in a boring job, put down by her mother on countless occasions, and is basically having trouble with finding the perfect man. Oh, what’s a girl to do? A bit of shopping, maybe? Brunch with friends? Pfft, nope. Why do that when you can simply visit a therapist?

Kerry’s therapist has set her a task. “A diary of past encounters with men that may be contributing to your current negative and dysfunctional relationship.” A task alternatively titled The Journal of Mortifying Moments.

The journal is kept a secret is Kerry’s desk and ONLY comes out when it has to – for Kerry to jot down some well and truly embarrassing encounters. As she battles through her daily life and some downright disastrous dates, Kerry begins to gain some more memoirs to add to her horrifying collection.

The Journal of Mortifying Moments is an amusing, witty take on single thirty-something life with some highly embarrassing twists. Kerry is the knowledgable yet often silly character that a lot of us can relate to. Let’s face it, we’ve all put our foot in it somewhere along the line!

However, whilst there are some fabulous moments to make you cringe, I had expected more in the way of laughs. Don’t get me wrong, this is a great read, but it’s not as hilarious as the blurb makes out. (Then again, I could just be spoilt from reading too much Sophie Kinsella. You’ve been warned!)

If you’re looking for something gossipy and cute, go for this. It’s not a heart-warming tale of love and marriage, but who needs that when you have a diary full of morbidly embarrassing situations?

Do I even have to ask that?

If you like this, try: The Secret Dreamworld Of a Shopaholic by Sophie Kinsella

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on August 14, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 11, 2006 12:11 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Dog Walker by Leslie Schnur

Last time I was in New York, the tour guide mentioned that dog walkers can earn up to $125,000 per year. Since that was considerably (considerably) more than I was earning at the time and since I would rather have been picking up doggie "messages" than doing the job I was actually doing, I was a bit put out. So when I saw this book endorsed by no less than Jennifer Weiner, I had to buy it.

Nina Shepard is a dog walker by day and a sculptor of found objects by night. She's not rich, but she does have an apartment with a terrace and a dog she loves. She is also in love with Daniel before she even meets him. He's the owner of one of her canine charges and each day when she lets herself in to his apartment to collect his dog, she lingers. And snoops. When they do meet she's not disappointed, but Daniel isn't quite who (or what) he appears, but then neither's Nina - she's only covering the dog-walking for a friend after being sacked from her much flashier job in publishing. So how can Nina and Daniel really fall in love when neither is who they seem?

I absolutely loved this book. Leslie Schnur writes about New York (and dogs) beautifully and I totally believed in Nina and Daniel from the beginning. The kind of book that makes you feel warm inside. (And makes you want to go to New York. Again.)

If you like this, try Pug Hill and Anyone But You

Posted by Keris on August 11, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 9, 2006 5:46 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Marry Me by Carey Marx

Careymarx When, at the start of 2005, comedian Carey Marx decided he was going to make it his goal to get married by the end of the Edinburgh Festival in August, his friends, not surprisingly, thought he was having a laugh. After all, he didn't even have a girlfriend- how was he going to meet the woman of his dreams, fall in love and get married in just eight months? Not to mention write his comedy show-"the show where you can laugh, applaud and marry the performer"- and a book about the whole experience! Marry Me explains all...

First the author signed up to several internet dating agencies and started chatting online with lots of different women (too many for him to keep track of, in fact!) He also asked his friends to find him dates, chatted up women after his comedy gigs and generally tried to cram years of dating into one tiny time-frame. Along the way he sent thousands of emails, lost days of sleep and even got his friends to fake a viral outbreak and dress up as zombies to impress two potential soulmates. (You'll have to read the book for an explanation!) During his search for love, several of his friends bypassed him and got engaged, and Carey met a hell of a lot of women- several of whom offered to marry him on the spot! But his quest wasn't just to find a wife- he was looking for true long-lasting love: so did he find it? Read the book to find out, you won't be sorry you did.

"Marry Me" is hilarious- especially the email exchanges between Marx and his prospective dates. I stayed up late into the night reading it, laughing out loud and wondering what crazy thing would happen next. More seriously, I also loved the fact that the desperate search for love was from a man's perspective for a change, and I enjoyed the message of the book: that sometimes you have to take big risks to get what you want- and even if you fail, it's still worth trying.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Year of Yes by Maria Headley, I'm Celibate, Get Me Out of Here! by Jo Elliot.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on August 9, 2006 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 8, 2006 1:12 PM

BOOK REVIEW: A Tale of Two Sisters by Anna Maxted

One night when I was pregnant I got up to go to the loo, started reading Anna Maxted's book "Being Committed" and found myself staying up reading it all night. The reason I'm oversharing is to make it clear how much I love Anna Maxted's books. So you can imagine how excited I was to get her new one. Would it live up to previous offerings? At first I wasn't sure ...

The first fifty pages I found to be a bit unfocussed and waffly. Not much was going on and there were quite a few lines that I knew were meant to be jokes, but that I didn't get and couldn't work out why not. But then by page fifty-five I was crying and then I was hooked.

Like many books about siblings, Lizbet and Cassie are total opposites. Lizbet's more relaxed (read: overweight) and Cassie's ambitious (read: a bit of a bitch) but they're best friends, united in their dislike of their parents. But then things start to go horribly wrong for both of them and they find themselves falling out in a big way .. repeatedly.

"A Tale of Two Sisters" is a sweet, intelligent and funny book. Throughout the twists and turns of Lizbet and Cassie's relationship, the story remains entirely believable and - although I can't believe I'm about to use this expression - emotionally intelligent (sorry). Plus there are some fabulously drawn supporting characters. I would've liked to have seen a bit more of Lizbet's husband Tim, but the lightness of that character was more than made up for with Cassie's in-laws The Hershlags who are fabulous and hilarious.

If you've never read any Anna Maxted, I wouldn't start with this one (try "Getting Over It" instead), but if you're a fan you won't be disappointed.

If you like this, try "In Her Shoes" by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by Keris on August 8, 2006 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (4)

August 7, 2006 9:42 PM

BOOK REVIEW: So Many Books, So Little Time by Sara Nelson

As someone who has 117 items on her Amazon wishlist and an entire separate bookcase (three shelves) for as-yet-unread books, I was never going to be able to resist a book entitled "So Many Books, So Little Time". It's the non-fiction account of fellow "readaholic" Sara Nelson's experiences following her decision to read a book per week for a year.

Intertwined both with memoir and stories from Sara's daily life, Sara describes how she chooses to read the books she reads. She meditates on the experience of reading, why we read, how we read and why some people can't get enough of books.

"So Many Books, So Little Time" is funny, interesting, wise and inspiring. Plus, of course, it will make you want to read more books and there's nothing wrong with that!

If you like this, try Book Lust or Bibliotherapy: The Girl's Guide to Books for Every Phase of Our Lives

Posted by Keris on August 7, 2006 in American Authors, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

August 3, 2006 3:56 PM

BOOK REVIEW: The Debutante Divorcee by Plum Sykes

Deb_2 Since my reaction to Bergdorf Blondes was lukewarm, my instincts told me to give Plum Sykes' follow-up novel a wide berth. However, it landed on my doormat regardless! It doesn't really cover any new ground, sitting comfortably in the Manhattan socialite world yet again, though this time our ladies are wives and divorcees instead of single girls searching for love. Think of it as 'Sex & The City: When Carrie Married Big' and you're halfway there...

I know Plum Sykes is probably fed up to the back teeth of the Sex & The City comparisons and constant mentions of the fact she's an ex Voguette with a contacts book any fashionista would kill for. But let's face it, she's selling a lot of books because of that, and we do love to scoff over these part fact / part fiction New York women and read all about the designer clothes they wear.

The story begins when new bride Sylvie meets 'it' girl Lauren while the two are on their honeymoons. The twist? Sylvie might be on a real honeymoon (sans husband - it's a long story) but Lauren is on her 'divorce honeymoon', celebrating her singledom and making plans to make out with random men. Sylvie and Lauren become instant best friends in a way only these superficial New York women can, and the rest of the book is a whirl of parties, fashion, secrets, misunderstandings and mysterious men.

With Sylvie working for a fashion designer and Lauren a rich socialite, there's plenty of scope for exotic locations, gorgeous clothes and plenty of trashy frivolity. This is a book you read in disbelief, unsure whether this stuff actually happens. Designer labels and 'it' names are spattered across the pages throughout (as well as a lot of talk of fur when our girls end up in Russia).

Plot-wise, it skips along quite nicely, though you won't win any prizes for guessing what's going to happen. It's most entertaining because you'll read the second half knowing exactly what's going to happen, trying to stop yourself from tearing at the pages in desperation that the characters haven't worked it out yet.

Overall, while I was expecting to hate this, I found myself enjoying the escapism. It gets a four our of five for entertaining me for a couple of evenings, but it comes with a 'complete trash' warning. This is a book to dip into and enjoy when you don't want anything too taxing. Don't read it to educate yourself unless you're planning to go millionnaire-nabbing in Manhattan! [Gemma]

If you liked this, why not try Everyone Worth Knowing by Lauren Weisberger

Posted by gcartwright on August 3, 2006 in British Authors, Fashion-Lit, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 2, 2006 6:05 PM

RICHARD AND JUDY SUMMER READS : The Abortionist's Daughter by Elisabeth Hyde

Theabortionists The book featured in this week's Richard and Judy's Summer Reads is "The Abortionist's Daughter" by Elisabeth Hyde.

Megan is shocked when her father phones to tell her that her mother, Diana, is dead. Frank (that's her father) found Diana face down in their swimming pool when he got home from work. The police are suspecting foul play though, she has bruising that suggests her death was at somebody else's hands. The suspect is long, particularly considering her work as the Director of the Center for Reproductive Choice. She spent her life campaigning for women's right to choice and this made her a national hate figure for some. Withing their own family life hasn't always been the smoothest, since her younger brother died her parents have never been the same - but surely her father couldn't have finally snapped... could he?

I thought this book was well written, and dealt with a sensitive topic in a reasonable manner. Hyde looks at the concept of abortion from a number of perspectives, but in making the book a murder mystery allows herself to escape the need to come down on one side of the debate. The characters are well created around this subject, but it did feel at times like the book was lacking a little in the way it evaded the real nitty-gritty you may expect.

The plot is well created, I found myself fairly surprised by the ending when the killer is revealed, though afterwards when I looked back at the book I could see the writing was on the wall - just in very faint chalk! I found myself gripped by the book, but felt at times I wanted to know a little more about Diana - I think I'd have cared even more about the outcome if I'd known more about the woman.

This is a well written book that will keep you reading. It is perhaps a little weaker than some of the previous novels in the series, but is still well worth a read.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Jenni on August 2, 2006 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Richard and Judy | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: The Next Big Thing by Sara Caspian

Thenextbig After spying this book in the local bookstore (cutesy covers most certainly do it for me!) I just had to give it a whirl. Sara Caspian's debut novel, 'The Next Big Thing', seemed by the blurb to be a usual tale of chic career rivalry in the high-flying world of advertising - but you know what? I was mistaken. Totally mistaken, in actual fact...

Tierney Marshall is employed by Cool Hunting; a top firm that's dedicated to seeking out what the general public thinks is 'cool'. Tierney's job focuses on what's hot and what's not; from celebrities to clothing trends. So when Matt, Tierney's gorgeous boss, decides to offer her a long-awaited promotion, she jumps at the chance. However, there's just one thing she has to do beforehand - find a girl for the newest, hippest upcoming ad campaign yet.

Its sounds like an easy task – but it’s definitely not. With the ad campaign being for the latest ‘girly’ alcoholic drink, it’s essential that the girl is perfect. But with sassy, snide Cool Hunting rival Vanita hot on Tierney’s heels for the same promotion, it’s only a matter of time before things start to go awry.

Caspian’s smart heroine Tierney proves to be the likeable sort of girl who even gets to experience a slice of fame. As her job becomes a race against time to find the perfect girl before her chance of promotion flies out of the window, her life is about to become just a little more complicated. Especially as the scheming Vanita is prepared to use any means whatsoever to push herself up the career ladder.

The Next Big Thing is Sara Caspian’s debut, and to be perfectly honest; it’s a good one. It’s a fast-paced, well-written offering that’s quite frankly unputdownable. With a host of fun characters, unexpected twists, turns and wonderful sub-plots that make it a lot more enjoyable than a lot of chick-lit tales, this author is definitely one to watch out for (Sleeping Cutie is already on my wishlist!)

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on August 2, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 31, 2006 11:10 AM

BOOK REVIEW - Candlewood Lake by Penny C Sansevieri

Candelwood Sansevieri is an established expert in how to market manuscripts who has now turned her hand to writing fiction herself. This is her second book, and it tells the story of childhood love gorwing up. Eve, Justin and Billy have ben friends since they were young, now they're growing up Eve will marry one of them - but who?

Justin and Billy have been friends for a long time, much to the surprise (and sometimes dismay) of their parents. Justin is a bookish, quiet boy from a fairly well to do family, whilsy Billy is a sporty, popular child from the opposite side of the tracks. They compliment each other well - Justin is left well alone by the bullies thanks to Billy's popularity and in turn Justin helps to keep Billy on the straight and narrow. When Eve moves to Candlewood Lake (a beautiful country community) she forges a strong friendship with the two boys - where you see one the others aren't far behind.

Its the 1970s and the war in Vietnam is raging. When Billy's older brothers are drafted on the same day he worries their family will never be the same. His mother can't bear the thought of losing either of her babies, so when the death watch arrives to tell her that Duane has been killed the grief pushes her toward the edge. Billy now has to cope with losing his brother, and the constant state of depression that consumes his mother. Justin and Eve can only stand by, offering shoulders that Billy never seems to want.

At the same time the three children are becoming adults, moving further toward the real world. As their hormones begin to rage they see each other in a new light - which lad will win Eve's hand?

'Candlewood Lake' is a beautifully written book. It takes a steady pace through what could be a very maudlin story. It deals with love, life and death with a careful ease. The plot is believable and never feels like the author is beating a point too much.

The characters are well written, and created in such a way that you really find yourself routing for them. I have to admit I was surprised at how involved I got whilst reading the book. I'd highly recommend this lovely story.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'The Island' by Victoria Hislop

Posted by Jenni on July 31, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 29, 2006 1:53 PM

BOOK REVIEW- The Between Boyfriends Book by Cindy Chupack

Thebetween Cindy Chupack was an award-winning writer on Sex and the City. (Did I need more information that that before buying and reading her book? No, I did not!) The Between Boyfriends Book is a collection of essays about life and love in New York, from the perspective of a single woman (as the title might suggest!) Who better to write on this subject than an SATC writer (award-winning, no less) and columnist for U.S Glamour? No-one, that's who...

This book is hilarious and hugely enjoyable- with topics ranging from being dumped without explanation, to flying long-distance alone, to the best and worst places to go on dates (playing a sport together turns out to be particularly bad). Chupack introduces the concepts of "Halloweenies"- people who break up around Halloween to save the agony of enduring the holidays together, "Sexual Sorbets"- a palate cleanser after a break-up and before your next boyfriend- and the need for a "Relationship Equivalency Exam": so you could get credit for your failed relationships and wouldn't have to start from the beginning with a new partner. (I like that idea!)

Single women will love this book, but you don't have to be single to find it funny. Most women will find something to relate to and laugh about (For example: "I am going on a ten-day fast. In preparation for this fast I have eaten most of the contents of my refrigerator, including leftover spare ribs (which I don't even particularly like) and the not insignificant remains of a birthday cake. I now feel sick enough to abstain from eating for a day, if not longer.")- Sadly, I've been there, more than once...

My one criticism of the book isn't really a problem with the book at all- it's that the unmarried women Cindy Chupack writes about (herself included) aren't out enjoying themselves with their friends, or even -gasp!- alone instead of spending time on dates with men they hate and desperately wishing, hoping and searching for a partner. The effort and energy they put into all that could surely be put to better use- they could do charity work, or invent a new cocktail, or slob out with the TV (I'd have a Gilmore Girls marathon, but that's just me...) After all, it's a truth universally acknowledged (well, pretty much) that you'll meet the right man eventually, so why waste so much time worrying about it? Then again, Manhattan is a hugely competitive place and the ratio of men to women in NYC is tipped against us gals, so maybe that explains it...

Of course, I wish Cindy luck in meeting her ideal partner- but from a selfish point of view, I hope she doesn't find him just yet, so she can write another book or two like this!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Read an interview with the author and more about her involvement with SATC here.

Like this? Try The Year of Yes by Maria Headley, Tabloid Love by Bridget Harrison.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 29, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW: Flirting With Pride & Prejudice edited by Jennifer Crusie

Flirtingwith It is a truth universally acknowledged that if Jane Austen were writing today, she would be considered a chick lit author. Well, maybe not universally acknowledged, but acknowledged enough for the purposes of this entertaining collection, which is subtitled 'Fresh Perspectives on the Original Chick-Lit Masterpiece' and features a mix of both essays and short fiction.

Edited by Jennifer Crusie, the collection is split into sections including Jane as Universal Social Commentator, Jane and the Movies, Jane's Hero and Jane in the Twenty-First Century and includes contributions from great romance/chick lit authors including Shanna Swendson, Lani Diane Rich, Laura Caldwell, Melissa Senate and Karen Joy Fowler, on such subjects as the similarities between P&P and Fiddler on the Roof, Bride & Prejudice (the movie) and the eternal appeal of Colin Firth's Mr Darcy.

My favourite essay was probably Elisabeth Fairchild's discussion on why Pride & Prejudice is like an onion (yes, really), but I also really enjoyed Jill Winters' incredibly inventive The Secret Life of Mary (in which we find out what Mary was - perhaps - up to during her disappearances from the book). The Jane in the Twenty-First Century section was, for me, the least successful, but that may be because I'm too much of a Jane purist to imagine Darcy's proposal with added cellphones or the Bennet sisters on a reality TV show, but all in all, this is an inventive, entertaining and interesting book.

(And, yes, the wet white shirt makes more than one appearance!)

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Keris on July 29, 2006 in American Authors, Classic Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 27, 2006 3:22 PM

Book Review: Having It and Eating It by Sabine Durrant

Having it and Eating It is the debut novel from journalist Sabine Durrant. Sure, it was published back in 2000, but after reading this first offering there is no way this can go without a review. Durrant is certainly talent to keep an eye on, especially with a host of other novels that I’m planning on stocking up my shelves with.

Don't you just hate those girls who have it all? The ones, as they say, who have their cake and eat it. Claire Masterson is one of those. She's smart, sophisticated, immensely independent and the schoolmate who every girl wanted to be, and every boy...well, just wanted. She's a party animal with a gorgeous London flat, freedom, and a figure to envy. So when Maggie Owen bumps into her on whilst battling it out with her double-buggy one day, she's feeling little more than disheartened.

Maggie is boring, or so she thinks. Laden down with an overly-busy boyfriend and two demanding children, it seems to her as though she'll never get back all that freedom that Claire Masterson exudes with every classy breath. However, when boyfriend Jake begins to act rather strangely; a little too distant, it's so obvious that something is up.

And Maggie is sure that her oh-so-charming ex-classmate has something to do with it.

Even so, if Jake can get away with it, why can't she? When Aussie gardener Pete shows an interest in her, she decides to take the plunge. In the rush between the Tweenies, outings with the local mothers and visits to Jake's seemingly irregular friends, Maggie is managing to find time for her forbidden exploits with the young man from Down Under. Maybe a bit on the side helps to keep a marriage together? 'It's extraordinary,' says Maggie. Or is it?

Why does Claire Masterson get it all?

Durrant's wonderful writing style and witty take on modern motherhood make for a great, addictive read. I found it hard to put this book down and finished it pretty much straight away. With a fabulous and unexpected twist at the end, Having It and Eating It is one heck of a page-turner, guaranteed to keep you up all night wondering what's about to happen next. A tale of the trials of a non-working, middle-class mother, it will easy help to clear up the burning question of who can be happier, regardless of pretentious high fashion and country houses.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'I Don't Know How She Does It' by Allison Pearson

Posted by Danielle Symonds-Yemm on July 27, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 26, 2006 6:05 PM

RICHARD AND JUDY SUMMER READS : My Best Friend's Girl by Dorothy Koomson

Mybestfriend This week Richard and Judy are featuring Dorothy Koomson's novel 'My Best Friend's Girl'.

'My Best Friend's Girl' tells the story of Kamryn who unexpectedly receives a letter from her best friend Adele. They haven't spoken for two years, since Kamryn found out that Adele had had a one night stand with her fiance and that the result was Adele's daughter Tegan. Adele has written to Kamryn asking her to visit her in hospital, where she lies dying. Despite telling herself she owes nothing to the woman who wrecked her life, Kamryn finds herself going to see Adele. When she arrives she is astounded when Adele asks her to adopt Tegan, so that she will have a mother to grow up with.

Kamryn realises how much it means to Adele to know that her daughter will be looked after, and agrees to take her in. Unfortunately Tegan is the spitting image of Nate, her father, and Kamryn is unsure of how she will cope with the constant reminder of why she fell out with her best friend. Now she must learn to adapt her life to become a good mother, and finally come to terms with the betrayal.

Carry on across the cut to see what I thought about the book.

'My Best Friend's Girl' is an interesting take on the usual tale of betrayal. The story is well paced and keeps the reader's attention. combining the threads of betrayal with Kamryn's adjusting to motherhood with ease. The characters are well written, though it did feel occasionally as though Koomson was trying to hard to get the reader to love Tegan - the descriptions of what a lovely little girl she is were too frequent and unnecessary, she is so well written you can't help but love her.

I enjoyed reading this, but think that so far it is the weakest of the books featured in this years Summer Read campaign. It would make a good book for the beach, but be prepared for the fact you may need your tissues!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Jenni on July 26, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Richard and Judy | Permalink | Comments (5)

July 24, 2006 3:34 PM

MORE ON MONDAY : One Shot by Lee Child

Oneshot Lee Child is currently one of the most exciting names in crime thriller writing. His series of books about maverick Jack Reacher are now some of the most eagerly awaited. This, the most recent lived up to all my expectations - good plot, plenty of twists and turns, and Reacher at his best.

When a lone sniper assassinates five office workers at the end of the working day the town is shocked. Their fears are abated rapidly with the swift arrest of the shooter, though the police are less sure. The trail was a little too clean, and when they arrested him Barr had only one thing to say - 'Get Reacher'...

When Reacher is summoned he finds Barr a familiar face. Their paths crossed when Reacher was a military policeman and Barr a marine. After Barr commited an awful crime politics and orders from above stopped Reacher from being able to follow through on the punishment he felt was required. Reacher can't imagine what would have made Barr call for him - he was left in no doubt of what would happen if their paths crossed again.

Quickly Reacher realises there is more to this case than the police realise. He begins to investigate and manages to turn up a tangled web of conspiracy - the real question is who gave the order for Barr to shoot, and why? The police begin to suspect there is more to Reacher than they believed, so Reacher must evade them, as well as representatives of the mastermind behind the plot. Will Reacher be able to solve the case in time?

Child weaves a complex but believable plot with ease. I personally found the evidence and forensics fascinating - I never once found myself doubting what I was being told (this doesn't happen often when I'm reading crime novels). Reacher is a rich character who is well supported in this book by a well balanced supporting cast.

This is a fast paced, well written thriller. Make sure you have plenty of time to sit and read it - its very hard to put down!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Jenni on July 24, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 21, 2006 2:43 PM

BOOK REVIEW - The Truth About Ruby Valentine by Alsion Bond

Thertruthabuot When I read Alison Bond's debut effort 'How To Be Famous' I agreed with Gemma that whilst it was a great effort for a debut the ending was an area that needed some work. There was enough promise to make me think it would be worth my giving her second book a try, and when I saw it was full of the intrigue that surrounds a Hollywood legend. It sounded like there was a hint of mystery thrown in - I couldn't wait to dive in.

Kelly lives in Wales, and feels her life is pretty quiet and boring. She dreams of the glitz and glamour she reads about in the glossy magazines, but it seems like a whole different world. Her world is turned upside down when after the world learns of the suicide of Ruby Valentine, Hollywood's favourite screen legend, her dad reveals a secret. Kelly has never known who her mother was - yup you've guessed it, she's Ruby's daughter! Unsurprisingly this revelation leaves Kelly with a whole list of questions, though the most pressing one as far as she's concerned is whether her mother really did commit suicide or whether there's something more sinister behind her death.

There's only one way for Kelly to get the answers to the questions she wants, and so she jumps on the next plane to LA. When she arrive she finds herself launched into the midst of one of Hollywoods dynasties. Family members are twisted in love, scandal and bitter disputes seem to be ten a penny. Her mother's agent, Max Parker (yup he and CMG are back in this book) tries to help Kelly find her way into this new glamorous lifestyle - after all everyone wants a piece of Ruby's long lost daughter. None of this stops Kelly in her quest though - she's determined to know exactly what happened.

This book mixes two narratives (Kelly's story and Ruby's story) with ease. Whilst the story is a little slow to get going, once the book really starts its quick paced and full of interest. There are a number of twists - though the ending brings the biggest twist of them all (for once I hadn't worked it out).

The characters are well written, and whilst a few of them tend toward to the stereotypical there seems to be a definite improvement on the characters in 'How To Be Famous'. I found myself truly convinced by this tale of the big Hollywood family.

This book impressed me a lot. I finished 'How To Be Famous' thinking that Alison Bond showed a lot of promise. With this book I feel she has proved me right - she's not perfect yet, but she's a whole lot closer than she was! This would make a great read for the beach - find yourself transported into the glitz and glamour of Hollywood.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Saffron Skies' by Lesley Lokko

Posted by Jenni on July 21, 2006 in British Authors, Crime / Mystery, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW- Hanging Up by Delia Ephron

Hangingup Most people have heard of journalist/novelist/screenwriter Nora Ephron (and I'm a HUGE fan), but did you know there are three talented Ephron sisters? Delia is the middle child and Hanging Up was her first novel: a story about (who'd have guessed?!) three grown-up sisters, focusing on... the middle one. (Write what you know!)

Party-planner Eve has a demanding and mentally unstable father, an often absent husband and a willful teenage son to deal with- as well as two self-absorbed sisters. There's flaky Maddie, the youngest and a soap actress, and Georgia, who runs her own magazine, Georgia... When their father's health takes a downturn, it's Eve's job to look after him, and to rally her sisters into helping.

Clearly, that doesn't sound like a laugh-a-minute plot, but this is a very entertaining book: funny, even. Not laugh-out-loud hilarious, but poignant, witty and intelligent. One minute I was smiling over a clever turn of phrase, the next I was moved almost to tears by the sadness of Eve's father's wasted life or her estrangement from her mother. There is a plot moving the action forward, but this is more of a slice-of-life story: you read it for the great writing and insight rather than the storyline. I read it in a couple of days because it was so hard to put down- I found myself sneaking a read throughout the day, even though I had lots of things to do, because I just couldn't tear myself away!

As the book's title would suggest, a lot of dialogue in the book takes the form of phone calls but this isn't done in a gimmicky way- it's more a reflection of the way this disconnected family communicates (plus this was written in 1996, before everyone had email). And it's spaced throughout the book, with lots of thoughts and action in-between, so it never irritates.

I'm so glad Nora Ephron's parents had three children, because it's opened up a whole new world of fab literature! This book is a great find: extremely well-written, with well-rounded characters who seem like a real family- at times unbearable, and at others totally lovable. Now, I need to track down Amy Ephron's back catalogue...

Rating: 4 out of 5

*DID YOU KNOW?* Hanging Up was made into a film in 2000, starring Meg Ryan, Lisa Kudrow and Diane Keaton as the sisters and Walter Matthau as their troublesome father.

Like this? Try Isabel's Bed by Elinor Lipman, 'Heartburn' by Nora Ephron.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 21, 2006 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW - Cafe Tropicana by Belinda Jones

Cafetropicana I await new Belinda Jones novels like JK Rowling fans await the next Harry Potter. Her glamorous, funny tales of love and life in gorgeous locations are the perfect summer reads, flying by like a 500 page holiday romance. However, this is the first year I've not read her latest offering on my holiday, and I do wonder if my slight disappointment was down to that fact?

In this novel, Belinda Jones transports us to Costa Rica, where heroine Ava is summoned to help her dad open a beachside coffee shop. It's a big change from her life in Bath, but running her own cafe is Ava's dream, and where better to give it a go than the home of some of the best coffee beans in the world?

Of course, things never run smoothly, and Ava has more to deal with than how to choose the perfect blend. There's her dad's new wife Kiki, her sexy and smouldering business rival Santiago, and Ryan, the thrillseeker who can seem to keep his fly unzipped when Ava is around.

As always, the star of the book is the location rather than the heroine, and you're treated to plenty of details about Costa Rica. From rainforest zip-wire trips to turles nesting at Tortuguero, Ava manages to experience it all... while two gorgeous men fight over her. Tourist boards really should start paying fees to the author, I want to go there just for the butterflies (both sorts).

All that said, there was something about Cafe Tropicana that left me feeling slightly disappointed by the end. Don't get me wrong, it's still miles above most of the trash that's rushed into publication as a 'beach read' and I still thoroughly recommend it as a great easy, entertaining read. I just didn't find myself relating to the characters as much as I have in her previous books (the main protaganist of 'The California Club' even had the same celebrity crush as me!), and it lacked the frequent laugh-out-loud moments of Divas Las Vegas.

Maybe it's just that I don't drink coffee? [Gemma Cartwright]

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'The Paradise Room' by Belinda Jones

Posted by Aigua Media on July 21, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 19, 2006 2:15 PM

BOOK REVIEW- Tabloid Love by Bridget Harrison

Tabloidlove The cover of this book seems to have been designed for me. OK, maybe not just me- like Keris, I'm a sucker for a New York skyline, and this book has that, plus courier font to lend it a serious journalism/Woodward Bernstein-y edge... and for the hard sell, a cover blurb from Candace Bushnell: "A Real-Life Bridget Jones meets Sex and the City", which aside from being the biggest compliment the creator of Sex and the City could give, is actually a really accurate description of Bridget Harrison's memoir, Tabloid Love.

At the age of twenty-nine, Bridget (great chick-lit name!) had her life all settled: a great relationship with a boyfriend everyone expected her to marry, her own home, a job as assistant features editor at The Times and a fabulous circle of friends. But something was nagging at her, something she couldn't quite put her finger on...

If she was truly contented, then why was the opportunity to go on a work exchange to New York for four months so incredibly tempting? She loved her life, but this seemed too good to pass up so after a few sleepless nights, Bridget decided to risk it. She rented out her house and left for NYC and a job at super-tabloid and gossip rag extraordinaire The New York Post, saying a sad goodbye to her boyfriend and friends... But not that sad: after all, she'd be home soon. Wouldn't she?

Well, maybe not as soon as she thought! When she arrived in New York, she loved it instantly. (Okay, that's not entirely true: it took her some time to adjust, but after that, she adored it). She certainly suffered culture shock at first, though: running down subway steps in her high heels (she was used to being office-bound), she struggled to make herself understood and find her way around town in time to get her story. Plus she had to learn the lingo, local etiquette and how to cope in risky areas of the city.

Just when she felt she was getting the hang of things, it was time to leave. Could she tear herself away? Or would she stay put, even if she risked losing her man and the life she'd built back in England? Doubting her own sanity Bridget tentatively began to break the news to her loved ones: she wasn't coming back anytime soon. And that's when things really started to get interesting...

This is a hugely evocative book that gives a fascinating insight into New York life (sometimes horrifying, often funny!) and the difficulties of keeping your head above water in a hugely competitive industry. Sometimes I was completely jealous of Bridget (she scooped her own Carrie-Bradshaw style column), other times I was mortified on her behalf (the difficulties of making friends in the big apple). What I most admired about her story is that she took a risk in order to expand her horizons- and came to realise than being happy is more important than ticking off career and relationship goals. I found her story particularly fascinating being a frustrated Lois Lane myself, but you don't need to be a journalist-wannabe to enjoy this book: if you like reading about big cities, love, and the ups and downs of a modern woman making it on her own (and if none of those things interest you, what are you doing here?!) then you'll love this memoir.

One warning though- because of the large print in this format, the book's thicker than a Manhattan phone directory!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Year of Yes by Maria Headley, Pug Hill by Alison Pace.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 19, 2006 in British Authors, Memoirs, New Releases, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW: Candyfreak by Steve Almond

Candyfreak_1 If women had to name something they couldn't live without, I bet chocolate would be high on the list. (In fact, give me a good chick lit book, a cup of tea and some dark chocolate and I'm a very happy camper indeed.) Yes, my name is Keris and I'm a chocoholic, but American Steve Almond takes chocoholism to a new level. An example: when he suspected that his new favourite dark chocolate Kit-Kats were going to be discontinued, he bought 36 .. boxes. (Can you get dark choc Kit-Kats here? The way he writes about them really makes me want to try one.)

Candyfreak was originally supposed to be about Steve Almond's life in chocolate, but he soon realised many of America's older and smaller confectionery companies were being driven out by the "big three" - Mars, Hershey and Nestle - and so he decided to travel around America talking to the owners of these smaller companies, touring the factories and, yes, collecting a lot of free chocolate.

Candyfreak is a wonderful book. Almond has a charming, chatty way of writing that makes it a very easy read and it's fascinating to hear about the production of the different chocolate bars (honestly, it is!). My only criticism is that I now have a huge list of chocolate I want to taste, but can't because it's only available in the US. (The Twin Bing is high on the list because it sounds and looks revolting.)

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Chocolat by Joanne Harris

Posted by Keris on July 19, 2006 in Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 17, 2006 8:53 PM

MORE ON MONDAY : Bloodstream by Tess Gerritsen

Tess Gerritsen is a former doctor who has now ventured into the world of writing. To date she has written a range of crime/thriller novels which have brought her millions of fans worldwide. This book, 'Bloodstream' was released in 1998 and happens to be one of my personal favourites. When Dr Claire Elliot chooses Tranquility as the ideal place for bringing her teenage son up she has no idea what the near future is going to bring...

Claire has taken over as local doctor in the town of Tranquility, Maine. She's being met with a lot of opposition; she's young, she's female, and well she's just not what they're used to. Slowly she begins to win the community over - but as the winter begins to approach something strange begins to happen. Violence breaks out in the local high school and there doesn't seem to be any logical cause. When it all starts to turn deadly Claire starts to wonder what could be at the root of it.

The community has seen this all before. None of them know what caused it before, and none of them know what is causing it now. It is down to Claire to try and work out why the town's teenagers are being driven to kill, and fast!

This is a fast paced thriller that will keep you turning the page. Whilst it has a medical theme it doesn't get bogged down in technical detail and doesn't require you to have a medical degree to understand what is going on. I promise you that the ending will not be what you expected, but its believable all the same. The plot and characters are well conceived and created making this the great book it is.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Jenni on July 17, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Modern Fiction, More On Monday, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

July 15, 2006 3:44 PM

BOOK REVIEW: Enchanted Inc by Shanna Swendson

Though every man and his dog seem to be predicting the demise of chick lit, in reality it's actually expanding and evolving. We now have Hen Lit (for and about older Chicks), Chick Lit Mystery, Mom Lit and Chick Lit Paranormal, in which the heroines are Chick, but the circumstances are, well, a bit unusual. Shanna Swendson's Enchanted Inc is a great example of the latter...

Before leaving Texas, Katie was warned that New York was weird, but she didn't realise quite how weird. Fairies on the subway, stone gargoyles that are there one minute, gone the next - Katie suspects she might be going mad. And with her boring job and psychotic boss, who could blame her? But then Katie receives a job offer from Magic, Spells and Illusions, Inc., and finds that New York's not so weird, it's just that magic is, well, real.

It turns out that Katie is an 'immune', which means that magic has no effect on her. In other words, her fellow New Yorkers can't see the fairies' wings or the disappearing gargoyles and Katie's immunity makes her extremely valuable to the magic community, which is currently in crisis and needs her help.

I loved this book. Despite her, um, peculiar circumstances, Katie is a charming and believable heroine. It only takes a couple of pages to suspend disbelief (if that, actually; I was on board from the beginning!) and then it's a really fun read. Enchanted Inc is the first in a series (Once Upon Stilettos is just out) and I can't wait to read more.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'If You Could See Me Now' by Cecelia Ahern

Posted by Keris on July 15, 2006 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

July 13, 2006 3:50 PM

BOOK REVIEW : Conversations With The Fat Girl by Liza Palmer

Conversations If you were to ask the average female what they didn't like about their body, their list would probably be endless. The gossip mags always contain this week's trendy diet, but many of us now face these with an air of defeated contempt - if the cabbage soup didn't work then there's no chance of the smoothies being any better. So when weight and self image is a topic that dominates many girly chats is it something we really want to read about? Liza Palmer obviously thinks we do - its the theme of this, her debut novel.

Maggie weighs more than she wants to. This is nothing new, it seems as though she's been looking at other people and their perfect figures all her life. At school it wasn't so bad, she had her best friend Olivia who was also overweight. To be perfectly honest if it wasn't for their mutual weight problems they'd probably never have become friends - but the social hierarchy forced them together. These days though Olivia is a size 6, though this was after gastric bypass surgery.

Life for Olivia seems to be pretty perfect, she's just about to get married to her Mr Right. Maggie however is starting to feel like life's passing her by a little. Everyone else is a bit smarter, a bit more motivated, a bit thinner - how can she even think of competing? Her boss at the coffee shop is driving her mad, but she can put with him and the monotony of the work - all the more time to drool over the gorgeous Domenico.

As Olivia's wedding draws nearer and nearer Maggie starts to question whether Olivia's life is actually that much better than her own. Maybe the figure she is craving isn't the solution to her problems after all.

I really enjoyed this book. As a person who has had weight issues I found I could really identify with Maggie at times, though other times I found myself yelling at her to stop being so wet. I don't think though that this is a book that only people who have or who have had weight problems will enjoy. The theme that dominates is that of friendship, and of how friendship changes with time.

The plot and characters of this book are highly convincing, making it a thoroughly enjoyable read. I think this could make a great book for a reading group to discuss, or just enjoy it on your own.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'The Perfect 10' by Louise Kean.

Posted by Jenni on July 13, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 12, 2006 12:25 PM

BOOK REVIEW- You'll Never Nanny in this Town Again by Suzanne Hansen

Youllnevernanny The success of The Nanny Diaries led to a resurgence of bean-spilling books (Snitch-Lit?) and here Suzanne Hansen adds her non-fiction tale to the pile, with You'll Never Nanny in this Town Again: The True Adventures of a Hollywood Nanny. In the mid-1980s, aged just 19, nanny-school graduate Suzanne moved to L.A and accepted a post looking after three children whose father just happened to be one of the most powerful men in Hollywood, super-agent Michael Ovitz. John Travolta and Tom Cruise would regularly call the house, Dustin Hoffman and Paul Newman would drop by for private screenings and the family frequently went on vacations with the likes of Kurt Russell and Goldie Hawn. So far, so fabulous. But there was trouble in paradise...

What had at first seemed like a dream job quickly became a nightmare: too shy to negotiate a fair contract, Suzanne found herself on call at all hours of the day and night- except for her weekends off, when despite being promised the use of the family jeep, she ended up stranded in her room. She also found her employers had very little respect for her, the work she did, or even their own children- she was the primary if not only caregiver for their very young baby, yet they considered her insignificant, and treated her as such (on their Hawaii vacation, she left her room just twice, babysitting the rest of the time).

But when she thought about quitting, the family turned nasty (or nastier), with Michael uttering the words that make up the book's title. Was he right? Would she ever nanny in Hollywood again? Well, there's only one way to find out!

I enjoyed this memoir from start to finish- it's deliciously gossipy, and I can't believe she's kept almost everyone's real names (must have a great lawyer- or be telling the absolute truth). Of course, it has a lot in common with Hollywood producer Julia Phillips' landmark tell-all, You'll Never Eat Lunch in this Town Again, except that documented the author's excesses too. The only excesses Suzanne indulges in are some disastrous beauty treatments and a few too many cookies. But her Oregon wholesomeness doesn't detract from the enjoyability (if that's a word!) of this book- in fact she provides a counterpoint to the opulence, waste and superficiality she sees around her, and the book wouldn't work without her naive new-girl perspective.

I was disappointed for her and as a reader that her Hollywood experience wasn't more glamourous- and that she never really triumphed over her evil oppressors (if Mr Ovitz or his staff is reading this- I promise that's just a turn of phrase! Sir). But it's still an infinitely readable account of a very interesting time and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone else who loved The Nanny Diaries, for a real-life perspective (truth really is stranger than fiction).

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try An English Psychic in Hollywood, Househusband by Ad Hudler.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 12, 2006 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW : Men In Aprons by Alex Mattis

Meninaprons This debut novel by Alex Mattis was commisioned by Elextrolux, as a way of trying to reach the species better known as the domestically challenged male. They have recognised that one of the largest groups of single person households is men under the age of 44. In an attempt to reach this population, and to help them get to grips with all things household they have created this book.

It's a story of a man who is dumped by his girlfriend because she's sick of having to do all of the chores. Will he learn his lesson and change his ways or will he simply look for a new slave?

The story tells the unfortunate tale of Dan. He has always had someone there to cook, clean and generally look after him, so when he gets home after the worst day in history to find that his girlfriend has up and left him he's not quite sure what to do. The short term solution seems to be takeaways and drinking to forget, but soon he realises he's going to need a flat mate if he has any hope of paying the rent. Enter Jackson, the true modern man. He can cook, he can clean and with the number of short cut tips he has he could write his only monthly housekeeping magazine.

In the first instance Dan is resistant to Jackson's attempts to domesticate him. However, when a famous filmstar appears on the scene he begins to wonder if there might be something in this good housekeeping. His job as a writer on a tv chat show is hanging precariously in the balance and winning this lady around may just save him.

This book is well written and fast paced. The plot is simple, and does occasionally feel a little too heavily influenced by the purpose of the book. At the end of each chapter are a list of helpful hints and tips which are pretty interesting - I have to admit I learnt a thing or two from it.

This book is designed for women to buy and give to the men in their lives. I think that the book meets this aim really well. If your man doesn't know his hoover from his houmus then get out and buy it!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Househusband' by Ad Hudler.

You can buy the book direct from Electrolux.co.uk

Posted by Jenni on July 12, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 11, 2006 11:19 AM

BOOK REVIEW : Wife In The Fast Lane by Karen Quinn

Wifeinthefastlane Last year Karen Quinn's debut novel "The Ivy Chronicles" was one of the most popular choices in Richard and Judy's Summer Read 2005. I picked up her follow up novel with a slightly wary hand. It seems pretty quickly released, and I hoped that it didn't mean it would be rushed and not live up to the furor that Quinn had built around herself. This was again a book set in Manhattan, in the world of the rich and powerful - familiar territory or just beating about the same bush? There was only one way to find out, so I opened the book and read...

'Wife in the Fast Lane' tells the story of Christy, a former Olympic athlete (two gold medals to her name included) who has decided that her challenge should now come from the world of commerce. She, with the help of her friend Katherine, has set up a new business, Baby G, producing sports shoes. Her hope is to give the public an alternative to the huge corporations, getting the sponsorship deal for the next Olympic Games will only help this.

As Baby G takes off Christy begins, under the careful instruction of Katherine, to make herself into the type of woman who sh0uld be CEO of an up and coming market leader. First it's a new apartment, then a wardrobe, hair cut - you get the idea. But it is when she is invited to a conference for the biggest movers and shakers that things really take off for Christy - she meets the gorgeous (and highly powerful and rich) Michael Drummond who she falls instantly in love with. Both of them are committed to their careers, but quickly realise they can have their careers and each other. So when they unexpectedly gain an 11 year old child to care for something has to give.

This is a story set firmly in the Upper East Side of Manhattan. In a similar fashion to 'The Ivy Chronicles' it is a fascinating peep into a completely different world - some of the things that are done by the school are mind-boggling. It is a well paced read, though the reader sees what is going to happen before Christy does at times which can be unfortunate if you're reading it on the train (everyone looked at me oddly when I shouted at my book!).

The characters and plot are both well created, at times both seem a little unbelievable but then it is easy to swallow them as you realise that this is simply 'how the other half lives'. This is an entertaining book that would be great to slip into your suitcase this summer.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try "Under My Spell" by Deborah Wright

Posted by Jenni on July 11, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 7, 2006 11:33 AM

BOOK REVIEW- Twenty Times a Lady by Karyn Bosnak

Twentytimes Shopaholic Karyn Bosnak became infamous on the internet when, after racking up $20,000 of credit card debt, she set up a website asking for help to pay back the money- and succeeded. That adventure spawned the wonderful, funny and heartwarming memoir 'Save Karyn' but her newest book is a novel about that most sensitive of sexual subjects: your 'number'. You know, THAT number... Delilah Darling, the heroine of Twenty Times a Lady, has just been made redundant. Even worse (in her eyes): she wakes up after a particularly regrettable one-night stand and realizes she's now slept with twenty men. She's shocked, especially as she's just read that the average girl's number is half that... so she vows that she won't sleep with another man. Ever.

This leaves her with a bit of a problem really, as she's hoping to get married and have children eventually. So she takes her redundancy payment, her hire car and her Blackberry and sets off on a journey across America to track down her lost loves- accompanied only by her brand-new Yorkshire terrier and an iPod full of Lionel Richie (for those rough moments, you understand). After all, she reasons, surely one of her ex-lovers must be the right guy for her... her romantic instincts can't be that bad. Can they?

What follows is a fast, funny and very enjoyable love story/road-trip novel. Whilst you may be able to predict how the book will end, you won't predict how Delilah gets there- and that's the mark of a good writer. The book speeds along, and there's a lot of surprises on the way to a happy ending. I loved the fact that the main character is a risk-taker, not afraid to seem stupid- and brave in sharing her feelings. And I frequently found myself snorting with laughter at her remarks!

After loving 'Save Karyn' so much, I wasn't sure how I'd feel about a novel by the same author- would the same big, sunny personality come across in a work of fiction? I'm happy to say it does! Delilah seems heavily based on Karyn's own personality and I think that's why she 's so likeable. But as to how much the experiences (and experience) Delilah has is based on reality, I guess only Ms Bosnak will ever know for sure...

If you enjoy Karyn's books, you'll love all the gossip on her blog, where there's also the chance to win a copy of Twenty Times a Lady every Friday, in her 'Love, Sex and My Ex' contest. But I wouldn't wait for that, I'd buy it now!

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try The Year of Yes by Maria Headley, Straight up and Dirty by Stephanie Klein.

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 7, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (4)

July 6, 2006 9:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW - Straight Up And Dirty by Stephanie Klein

Straightup_1 Today sees the release of Stephanie Klein's memoirs dealing with an issue many of us have had to deal with in one way or another, the end of a marriage. What do you do when you're faced with your perfect life suddenly becoming far from perfect? That's precisely what Klein tells us in this fast-paced, no holds barred, debut effort.

At the age of 24 Stephanie feels that her life is complete. She's married to the man she loves, happy in the job she wants to do, and living in a wonderful apartment in Manhattan. When she finds out that the baby she's wanted for so long is finally on its way she doesn't think life can get any better. Sadly this is when it all falls apart and she finds that her beloved husband has been seeing someone else, cue her life being turned upside down.

Stephanie moves to her own apartment, and seeks the advice of a phone therapist to help her get through this difficult time. A serious of dates ensues as she searches for the one thing that made her complete - love. As all single and formerly single people will know, dating can be a treacherous journey through the good, the bad and the ugly and this is certainly what Stephanie finds.

I found this book a little difficult to get into. For the first couple of chapters I found the way that Klein goes off on tangents to be a little confusing, but as soon as I got my head aruond the format I couldn't put this book down. Many of us are, or have been both unlucky in love and searching for someting more than we have. This book is almost reassuring in showing that the same things apply to someone else.

Klein's manner of writing is clear, and she does not shirk away from any details. It felt a lot like reading something straight out of 'Sex and the City', though think more Samantha than Charlotte!

This would make a great beach read, so go and get your copy!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try "The Movie" by Louise Bagshawe

***DID YOU KNOW? Stephanie Klein's blog "Greek Tragedy" is a firm favourite amongst many American surfers. ***

Posted by Jenni on July 6, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Memoirs, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 5, 2006 1:00 PM

BOOK REVIEW - The Wonder Spot by Melissa Bank

Wonderspot_1 I wasn't sure about reading this because of the brouhaha that followed Prep author Curtis Sittenfeld's New York Times review which began 'To suggest that another woman's ostensibly literary novel is chick lit feels catty, not unlike calling another woman a slut -- doesn't the term basically bring down all of us? And yet, with ''The Wonder Spot,'' it's hard to resist.' Meeoww!
I really hate all this scrapping about whether or not chick lit is valuable and I didn't want to involve myself in any way.

Also I didn't adore A Girl's Guide to Hunting and Fishing like everyone else seemed to, but something about The Wonder Spot pulled me in (think it was the New York cover again; I'm so shallow).

Like A Girl's Guide ..., The Wonder Spot is a series of linked stories about Sophie as she tries to find a decent career, lasting love and her place in the world (which is why Sittenfeld called it chick lit). Sophie is dry, funny, charming and sweet and I know she's a character who's going to stay with me. In fact, a number of characters from this book will stay with me (I was pretty fond of the 'bad boy' she met at evening painting class).

The Wonder Spot is beautifully written and I was sorry to finish it. I have utterly no idea whether it's literary or chick lit or what. It depends on your definition, I suppose, and I just don't care that much. To me, a good book is a good book (which is why my English Lit lecturers despaired of me) and The Wonder Spot really is a good book. [Keris Stainton]

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Aigua Media on July 5, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

BOOK REVIEW - An English Psychic In Hollywood by Lucinda Clare

Englishpsychic I was intrigued when I first picked up this copy of Lucinda Clare's memoirs. She makes it very clear that whilst she may have changed some identifying features all of the incidents in the book happened to her. Despite heading to the starry lights of Hollywood with the hopes of fulfilling her dreams of being an actress, Lucinda quickly finds out that her talents as a psychic are going to take her far further...

When Lucinda Clare is offered the chance to read for a role in a H0llywood movie she jumps onto the next available plane. Being an actress has been her lifelong dream and with nothing left in Blighty for her (save her best friend) the bright lights seem to be calling her name. Upon arrival however she quickly realises that it isn't her acting that's going to help her find her way. Lucinda, you see, is a psychic. For years she has trained with the full range of indivudiuals who can access 'spirit' and she is now well accomplished. What could be more appealing to a place full of insecure people than someone who can see their past, present and future?

Clare's memoirs follow her rise to fame within Hollywood circles. Invites begin to appear to parties and film sets, all conditional of course on her giving readings to all and sundry. This is where the book really comes into its own - Clare's descriptions both of events and of the people are rich, and really show you how the other half lives. All the while she is looking for the man of her dreams. Spirit has shown her the man who is her soulmate, she just needs to find him.

This is a well written and fascinating book. I found myself swept away by it, definitely not one I could put down! I would recommend this to anyone who fancies a slight change from the norm.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Like this? Try "I'm Celibate - Get Me Out Of Here" by Jo Elliott

Posted by Jenni on July 5, 2006 in British Authors, Celebrity Authors, Debut Novels, Memoirs, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

July 4, 2006 3:00 PM

BOOK REVIEW - The Year of Yes by Maria Headley

Yearofyes Is twenty too young to be so jaded about life and love that you decide to say yes to anyone who asks you out- anyone at all? For Maria Headley, the answer was no. Or rather, yes: she was going to say yay to everyone who asked her for a date: the homeless, the chronically weird and- despite being straight- women, too. Hence her book's title: The Year of Yes...

In this entertaining and frequently surprising New York memoir, Headley spills the beans about her year of nodding her head- to men, to women, and to life. Honest and brave, she lets us in to her world, sharing the disasters, the rare successes and the ups and downs of being a young woman in a tough city. She has her fair share of horrible dates: men who reject her and publicly humiliate her, weird millionaires with a penchant for eye-licking... oh, and then there's her huge unrequited crush on her male flatmate, which she tries to fight, with limited success.

I must be honest, when I read the blurb for this book, I couldn't understand why the author was so desperate to find a man. Call me a commitment-phobe but isn't being twenty and single in a buzzing place like NYC every young girl's dream? (Or is that just the Sex and the City addict in me?) But this is deeper than just another fluffy 'girl seeks man' memoir (not that there's anything wrong with those, of course). Maria clearly had a troubled childhood, and so her slightly precocious need to settle down and find stability is probably understandable. She also comes across as an 'old soul', someone who perhaps doesn't always relate to other people her age. Which doesn't mean this book is hard to relate to: it's a great story, often inspiring, sometimes sad and frequently very, very funny.

Maria clearly learnt a lot from her one special year. She opened her eyes to new possibilities (and then quickly and wisely slammed them shut in many cases!) and became more confident. She really began to believe in herself and in the possibility that the right man for her was out there, somewhere... but you'll have to read the book to find out if she met him.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Beautiful Bodies by Laura Shaine Cunningham

Posted by DIANE SHIPLEY on July 4, 2006 in American Authors, Memoirs, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

BOOK REVIEW - Saffron Skies by Lesley Lokko

Saffronskies Lesley Lokko seems to be carving herself a defnite place in the variety of chick lit authors. Her first book was set against the backdrop of apartheid in South Africa, and this one is set against a similarly politically strained period, though this one is fictional. This is a book of sisters, rivalry and love - sounds like the perfect combination for the beach...

The book follows the story of Max Sall, one of the most influential and rich movers and shakers in 1970s London. He has been married to Angela for many years and they have two children together, a daughter and a son. At the same time he's had a string of conquests on the side; it was his liaison with Francesca that brought him another daughter. His two daughters; Amber by his wife Angela, and Paola by his mistress Francesca along with their respective mothers keep Max on hsi toes at all time. Each woman is distinctly different from the rest, but they are bound together by Max.

The book focuses primarily on the daughters, and their relationships both with their mothers and their father. However when their paths cross, and both girls find themselves attracted to the same man something has to give.

This is a tale of love, betrayal and revenge. It has a rich cast of well created characters, and a plot that keeps your interest right through to the last page. I was just disappointed that it had to end!

The only word of warning I would give you is to avoid the author's note (fund at the beginning of the book) until you've read the book. It refers to an incident in the book and I found myself waiting for it to happen.

Take this one to the beach and enjoy!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Adored' by Tilly Bagshawe.

Posted by Jenni on July 4, 2006 in Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

July 3, 2006 12:29 PM

BOOK REVIEW - The Dirty Girls Social Club by Alisa Valdes-Rodriguez

Dirty_girls When I hear the words Social Club, I automatically prefix them with Buena Vista. Images of the Cuban musicians suggest a whole different world, one that always seems somewhat exotic (especially on a grey and rainy day!) This book features a different Social Club altogether, 'The Dirty Girls Social Club'. The members of this club all have one thing in common, they are all Latin American. Each woman is successful in her own right, but is success all it is cracked up to be?

The group has six members; Lauren, Sara, Elizabeth, Rebecca, Amber and Usnavys. Their heritage and their professional success are the only common features they share. Some have been lucky in love, whilst others are still looking for Mr Right. Some are happy with their lot, whilst others are searching for the fulfillment they crave. The book begins with them meeting for one of their regular reunions, and introduces each of the 'sucias'. It then follows them, switching the narrative voice as it goes.

Needless to say there are key chicklit themes running through this book. There seems to be quite a number of books focusing on groups like this, looking at how a group of women faces life together. Unsurprisingly there are ups and downs, but this doesn't make for a tried book. Valdes-Rodriguez has managed to follow the path laid down by writers before her, but to take enough alternative turns to make this book feel fresh. The fact that these women are bound together by their heritage means that this is something the author can explit, and she does so in a careful and well thought out way. There is sufficient in it to make you think about culture and society, but it steers well clear of becoming an overpowering and political piece.

The characters are well created and demonstrate that whilst people may differ on the outside, deep down there are many similarities. The same things influence your life whatever your race, or religion. The plot line is well paced, and there doesn't seem to be a rush to the finish.

I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'The Reading Group' by Elizabeth Noble.

Posted by Jenni on July 3, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (6)

June 30, 2006 11:25 AM

BOOK REVIEW - Sexy Shorts For The Beach

Sexysummershorts When I got hold of this copy of the latest book in the 'Sexy Shorts...' series I couldn't wait to begin reading. It's a collection of short stories which all have a summery theme. What makes it all the more worth reading is the fact that for every book that gets sold money is donated to Cancer Research UK - a very worthy cause. In this heatwave that seems determined to keep returning it can be difficult to concentrate enough to read an epic literary effort, so maybe this collection of tales would be better suited to current climates...

One of the nice thing about a collection of stories is that you tend to be bombarded with a wide range of stories, and writing styles. Whilst you won't love every story you're bound to find some you like and some you'll want to read over and over again. This collection is no different. I have to admit that I personally found it a little difficult to get into the book, my intention was to start at the first story and finish at the last (less chance of me missing any that way). I didn't find my attention grabbed by the first three or four, and it was only my sheer determination that kept me going. Oh boy was I glad I did!

If I was going to summarise the book, I'd say there were about 10% stories I didn't care much for, 60% I enjoyed, and 30% I absolutely adored. There's a brilliant mix of styles and feels to the stories, some are amusing, some are poignant and and some are downright romantic. By the time I'd finished reading I had a beaming smile on my face.

I would definitely recommend this. Its great to be able to pick it up and read a few stories at a time. And its nice to know that by reading you can help a good cause!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Jenni on June 30, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release, Romance, Series, Short Story Collections | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 28, 2006 1:29 PM

BOOK REVIEW : The Butterfly House by Marcia Preston

Butterfly This book by Marcia Preston is a tale of three women who are all having to live with the aftermath of a terrible secret. Brought together by the most innocuous of reasons, and torn apart by a terrible tragedy their lives have never been the same since one fateful night. When they are forced to face up to the secret they are all bound by. Will this bring a change to their lives once more?

The story focuses around Roberta. She is living her life the best she can after incidents that happened when she was younger caused her to be admitted to a mental health facility for a long period of time. She has learnt how to control her destructive thoughts and has been reasonably happily married for a few years now. When a stranger turns up her doorstep, her life is turned upside down. He is the father of her childhood best friend, Cynthia. He was reported dead after the Vietnam War and no one has heard from him since. He wants Roberta to go with him and testify at the parole hearing of Lorena, Cynthia's mother and his wife. She's been serving time for a crime that Roberta knows she did not commit, but can she bear to relieve the tragedy that changed all three women's lives.

Through a series of flashbacks we learn how Roberta and Cynthia became friends, and how Lorena became such an important figure in Roberta's life. We find out what tragedy tore them apart, and the secret that they each have been keeping for so long.

This is a carefully thought out and written story. The characters are well thought out and convincing. I felt whilst I was reading it as though it were a jigsaw puzzle, and the sense of satisfaction when another piece of the puzzle slotted in was huge. The plot was captivating and I struggled to put it down.

I would highly recommend this to anyone who wants a read with a slightly more serious angle to it.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Notes on a Scandal' by Zoe Heller

Posted by Jenni on June 28, 2006 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 26, 2006 10:03 AM

BOOK REVIEW : Pug Hill by Alison Pace

Pughil_2 I really enjoyed Alison Pace's first book "If Andy Warhol Had A Girlfriend", but I must admit the thing that really got me excited about Pug Hill was the gorgeous cover. I know they say you shouldn't judge a book by its cover, but this cover with all of the dogs set against a beautiful backdrop called to me from across the bookstore.

Plus it's set in New York. I'm a New York book slut.

Hope McNeill is an art restorer with a pathological fear of public speaking. When her father asks her to speak at her parents forthcoming 40th anniversary party, Hope enrols in an evening class to try and get over her anxiety. She's also trying to get up the energy to chuck her irritating and
pretentious boyfriend and get her sexy co-worker to fall in love with her. Or at least notice her.

To deal with the stress, Hope hangs out at Pug Hill - an area of Central Park where pug owners gather to walk cute pot-bellied pups.

I'm afraid to say I found Hope a little bit on the wet side. Of course, this being chick lit, I don't think I'm giving anything away if I say she pulls herself together eventually, but I can't help wishing she'd done it sooner and with a bit more conviction. Having said that, Alison Pace writes about New York so beautifully that I felt like I was there. And the ending is perfect and almost made me cry.

Soppy heroine aside, I'd definitely recommend this book if you love New York. Or dogs. [Keris Stainton]

Rating : 4 out of 5

If you like this try 'The Dog Walker' by Leslie Schnur

Posted by Aigua Media on June 26, 2006 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Recent Release | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 21, 2006 10:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW - Wedding Ring by Emilie Richards

Weddingring I became very excited about this book from the moment I read the authors note at the beginning of the book and learnt that one of the central themes was quilting. I love fibre arts (this week seems to be secret confessions of a Trashionista) and was eager to get reading! I was also intrigued by the blurb describing the book as being about a woman returning to her grandmother's home to spend the summer helping her mother and grandmother to clear the family home. Was this to be a tale of secrets and revelations? I was hoping so...

Tessa and her mother, Nancy, are summoned to Helen's (that's Tessa's grandmother, Nancy's mother) home by a concerned neighbour. Over the past few months Helen has systematically removed herself from the tight-knit community in which she lives, no one has seen her leave the house in weeks. Nancy is concerned that the time has come that Helen needs to move out of the isolated mountains she has lived in all her lifetime - she's getting too old to manage on her own. Helen is stubborn and forthright, the last thing she wants is to move into the type of retirement community her meddling daughter would see her holed up in. Tessa, well she's been brought in as a mediator but she's still trying to come to terms with the death of her young daughter just three years ago.

When Tessa and Nancy reach Helen's mountainside house they are shocked by the level of disarray it has fallen into. Helen has been hoarding anything and everything - refusing to leave the old way of life in which you didn't throw away anything that might be useful. They begin to clear through the piles whilst Helen hides away, resentful of their presence in her home. Each woman is caught up in her own troubles, each has something they are trying to run away from. Living in close quarters however they start to lern to live with each other, a process that is aided by the discovery of the quilts Helen has spent her life creating. Each one contains stories and memories, and as these are shared the women begin to open up.

This is a story about family and the bonds created by it. It deals with big issues such as failing marriages, the death of a child, and the difficulties of these bonds with a general sense of ease. The book was warmly written and very difficult to put down. The characters were well written - I could see members of my own family in each of them.

I would definitely recommend this to anyone who wants a book they can really get involved in and care about. My only quibble is that it is the first in a trilogy - I don't want to have to wait for the second and third installments!!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Beautiful Bodies' by Laura Shaine Cunningham

Posted by Jenni on June 21, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

June 19, 2006 2:35 PM

BOOK REVIEW - Size 12 Is Not Fat by Meg Cabot

Size12 Being in my twenties and a fan of bestseller Meg Cabot's much-loved teen lit, I was delighted to come across this recent release in my local bookstore. Nestling amongst the other chick-lit offerings and displaying not only a cute cover, but an interesting title and the promise of a mystery to boot – well, who was I to say no? It would beat having to sneakily conceal The Princess Diaries behind a tabloid on my daily commute, anyway.

Basically, Size 12 Is Not Fat jumped out at me like a ten-foot slice of gateau covered with chocolate sprinkles.

Mmm... Inviting...

Heroine Heather Wells is a 28-year-old ex-pop star who, after having discovered her boy band fiancée doing the dirty with upcoming star Tania Trace and seeing her mother flee the country with her manager and life savings, is forced to take a job as a dormitory – sorry, residence hall –assistant, overseeing students at nearby New York College. Despite her troubled past, as well as a complimentary weight gain, life isn't all that bad – especially as Heather has lovely private-investigator housemate Cooper to lust after.

However, when two female students are suddenly found dead in what appear to be tragic dares-gone-wrong, Heather is certainly not convinced. Because, quite frankly, 'girls don't elevator surf.'

Cue a vital desire to solve the mystery of Fischer Hall, which appears to land Heather in a bit more trouble than she actually expects. But with her pop career having taken a nose-dive and no man in tow, surely it's time for the former Queen of Teen to stop reminiscing and start concentrating on the present? Which, it seems, could land her in some serious danger if she's not careful.

Size 12 is a light, fun read, and once started, it's rather hard to put down. The book concentrates on the whole mystery rather than the past celeb life of Heather, which was one aspect I feared. Chick-lit fame tales are hardly a rarity right now. But hey, Size 12 is far from it – Heather is down-to-earth and lovable.

Still, there is one problem I came across whilst reading this. Despite Heather being almost thirty, the book reads like a teenage novel. The language used and attempts at mature wit will cause a mental debate over whether or not our heroine is actually fifteen. This of course works well with Meg's teen novels (All American Girl, the Mediator series, to name but a few) yet this adds an unfortunately childish feel to what is marketed at us older fans. Trust me, this book was not in the teen section of WH Smith. Just a warning.

Even so, it's a definite page turner and for any fan of Cabot, it's a must-read. It's cute, it's addictive, and will make you feel compelled to scour Meg's blog on a daily basis waiting for news of more (okay, maybe it's just me, then…)

But yes, once again Ms Cabot has unleashed another pleasing and downright fabulous offering into our grasp. Can't fault that! [Danielle Symonds-Yemm]

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try Undead and Unwed by MaryJanice Davidson or Can You Keep a Secret? Sophie Kinsella

Posted by Aigua Media on June 19, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (7)

June 16, 2006 10:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW - A Tree Grows In Brooklyn by Betty Smith

Atreegrows There must be almost as many books set in New York as there are citizens of Manhattan but this one is a bit different. Based in early twentieth-century Brooklyn, it tells the story of Francie Nolan and her family’s fight to get by in a time without electricity, a welfare system, or even windows in the bedrooms of their tiny apartment. Francie lives with her hard-working mother, hard-drinking father and younger brother Neely in a slum neighbourhood of the city.

If all that sounds depressing, it isn’t...

The novel is infused with optimism and hope, and some of their struggles (such as their makeshift meals) sound almost fun. (Perhaps a little too fun! After a day of three hearty meals, we’re told that the children were ‘always hungry’… not very well-illustrated!)

It’s full of interesting characters, not least Francie and her father but my favourite was Francie’s aunt Sissy; a kind-hearted tart, (with an interesting approach to her reproductive issues!) who sorts out many of the family’s problems. Smith obviously knew what she was talking about- the book was written in 1943 based on her own experiences, and her portrayal of New York’s poor was considered controversial at the time, with its inclusion of alcoholism, infidelities, and squalid conditions. Now its easy to imagine that she probably toned a lot of stuff down…

The book is well-written and very well observed, but maybe a little too sentimental at times, making an extra effort to tug on the heartstrings (making me cry a lot towards the end!) and over-explaining characters’ feelings when we could work out for ourselves that being poor can be a miserable grind. I also think I would have preferred it a first-person narration from Francie’s point of view, rather than a wandering viewpoint. It’s really her book and I would have liked to have felt even more involved with the character. But these are minor quibbles really; like the book, this review has a happy ending.

If you want a compelling story that teaches you something, this is a great read, and despite its size, a fast one. [Diane Shipley]

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'The Food Of Love' by Anthony Capella

Posted by Jenni on June 16, 2006 in American Authors, Classic Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

June 15, 2006 10:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW - The Reading Group by Elizabeth Noble

Readinggroup This book by Elizabeth Noble focuses on something close to many of our hearts - a book group. This book is about a group of women who meet regularly to discuss the one thing they all have in common, their passion for books. Each month they read a different book, and then meet to discuss it. The group however means far more to them all, it becomes a thing of sanctuary and support no matter what is happening in their lives...

'The Reading Group' follows five main characters over the period of a year. These are Harriet, Nicole, Polly, Susan and Clare. Very quickly the reader becomes drawn into their lives, and realises that whilst on the face of it the group is all about the books and the opportunity for intelligent discussion of these books, in actual fact it means far more to them all. The boko moves month by month through the books they have chosen to read, and you get a glimpse of their feelings towards these books (it was after reading this book that I went on to read 'I Capture The Castle' - one of the featured books).

The most important theme in the book however is not the books that they are reading. Instead it is the sense of togetherness that transcends the common boundaries of friendship. As each woman faces traumatic experiences in her life, the other women flock around to offer support and a shoulder to cry on. There is no trouble that the group can not face together.

The characters and plot are well created in this debut novel. The premise of a reading group is timely and will hit a chord with many readers - if you're not currently a member of one it's likely you're thinking about maybe joining or even starting one. Even if you're not, by the end of this you may just begin to think it would be a good idea.

My only slight criticism of this book is that some people may not like the sometime level of detail that the discussions about the book goes into. I think however that Noble balances this right - it would be difficult to have a book about a reading group without some discussion of other novels.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Beautful Bodies' by Laura Shaine Cunningham

Posted by Jenni on June 15, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 14, 2006 4:25 PM

BOOK REVIEW - Everything A Girl Needs To Know About Football by Simeon De La Torre and Sophie Brown

Whatevery A couple of weeks ago I told you about this book which had been produced to help girly girls get to grips with the beautiful game. I have now managed to acquire a copy of the book, and have given it a thorough going over to see whether, as I expected, it would be a tool to help some women save their relationships! As I mentioned in my previous post, I'm a big football fan, so I felt that I was in a good position to judge whether this book was worthwhile or not.

The book is organised into manageable chunks, each with a real purpose. Issues such as the various tournaments and leagues, an explanation of some of the most commonly used phrases by commentators, and how to win the perennial arguments at the pub are all well written and clear. Also present is a great chapter walking the reader through a match both watching it live at the ground, or on a screen (either at the pub or at home).

I liked the tone of the book. At times it veered slightly toward the frustrating, but I think that is more to do with the fact that it was telling me something I already knew. The information is well presented, and aims to amuse as well as to educate.

My one word of warning to anyone who is thinking about reading it (and I would really recommend that you do) is to be aware that as it was written a little while ago a couple of the teams have either been promoted or relegated, and some of the players have moved clubs.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Jenni on June 14, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Non Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

June 13, 2006 11:56 AM

BOOK REVIEW : Don't Look Down by Jennifer Crusie and Bob Mayer

Dontlook When romance author Jennifer Crusie met action/adventure writer Bob Mayer at a conference and found they shared a dry sense of humour they decided to try collaborating on "romantic adventure" novels. Don't Look Down is the first and I hope it's the first of many.

Following a tearful phonecall from her young niece, commercials director Lucy Armstrong finds herself in the Deep South finishing a film which seems to have transformed from a romantic comedy into a special-effects laden disaster-fest. And most of the crew have either died, quit or are spaced-out on drugs. And her arrogant ex-husband, Connor, is the stunt-director. But apart from that, there are no problems at all. Well apart from a sniper, a Russian hit man, the CIA and .. well, actually that's (almost) it.

So Lucy's got her work cut out for her, but she soon finds an ally in sexy green beret JT Walsh who, like Lucy, knows all is not right with this film shoot. Add a one-eyed alligator, some fake boobs and Wonder Woman underwear and you've got a fantastic, exhilarating, hilarious book.

I've loved all of Jennifer Crusie's books and Don't Look Down definitely feels like a Jennifer Crusie book (Bob Mayer refused to write any "yucky emotional crap"), but with the added excitement of guns and explosions and, um, pole-dancing. It's utterly fabulous and it's inspired me to buy some Wonder Woman underwear. You can't ask for much more than that. [Keris Stainton]

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Welcome to Temptation' by Jennifer Crusie.

Posted by Aigua Media on June 13, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 6, 2006 6:24 PM

BOOK REVIEW : The Girl In Times Square by Paullina Simons

Girlin Whenever I think of Paullina Simons I think of epic, richly created stories that I can't bear to put down. The fact that this, her latest, is set in New York made me even more eager to begin to read it. From the blurb from the back of the book I gathered that it was a love story, but with a twist or two along the way, set against the backdrop of a story of friendship and family. I found myself expecting a lot from this book - would it live up to my hopes?

Lily is an art student living in New York. Her world has just been turned upside down by the departure of her long term boyfriend. She hadn't realised their relationship was even slightly rocky, let alone it being enough for him to bail out into the arms of another woman. Lily's fortunes improve instantly when her numbers come up on the lottery, but the idea of such extreme luck scares Lily and she chooses to stash the ticket safely and just think about it for a while. A phone call from her brother sends her rushing to Hawaii to try to help her parents from a seemingly helpless situation. She is summoned straight back to New York though when her flatmate Amy is reported as a missing person. Lily is faced by the seemingly gruff Spencer O'Malley - the NYPD's best man on the missing persons team - but she doesn't know anything.

The story follows Lily and Spencer through the investigation into Amy's disappearance. Both of them have their own demons that they must fight, the decision they must make is whether to face them alone or not. Very quickly Lily's family become key players, both in Lily's life and the investigation, and she realises that all the things she has held dear for so many years may have been built on false beliefs.

The plot is cleverly thought out, though the ending was a little weak for my tastes. The characters are all well created, though there are some you would love to get your hands on and strangle. Lily's mom is a particularly interesting character, whilst I never grew to like her I did grow over the book to begin to understand her and the effect she had on the people around her.

I really enjoyed this book. It was well created, and I found it very difficult to put it down. I actually found myself disappointed when my train arrived at my station - if my parents hadn't been waiting for me I think I may have actually stayed where I was! Definitely one to read.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'All He Ever Wanted' by Anita Shreve

Posted by Jenni on June 6, 2006 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

June 2, 2006 12:21 PM

BOOK REVIEW - Tongue In Cheek by Fiona Walker

Tongue Tongue in Cheek proves that life in the country isn't all muddy boots and farmyard animals, instead it's much more suited to a category Fiona Walker likes to term 'racy rural'. She skilfully transports you into the un-put-down-able world of Oddlode, set deep in the Cotswolds countryside. In this satisfyingly long volume she delves into the lives of the inhabitants of the village, slowly and tantalisingly revealing their secrets, bit by bit.

Each of the characters has their own ghosts from the past to conquer, and unexplained fires repeatedly taunt the village itself. Walker makes you feel as if you could be sitting on the Oddlode Village green, listening in on all the scandalous gossip and breathing in the country air. Mystery and magic surrounds the secretive Gunning estate, and one by one the characters' lives are affected by the lure of the secret garden encased within it. There is something to relate to in all the well-crafted characters, be it hippy-teacher Mo, and her relentlessly unfaithful boyfriend Pod, or asexual Anke, whose desires are eventually reawakened by the magical secret garden. Or perhaps even glamorous Diana, the over-privileged girl who gave it all up for love, but whose dark secrets haunt her adult life.

Some may criticise this book for the confusing number of characters (25 in total – I kid you not), and I have to admit at times I did get a mite confused between them, but the strength of Walker's writing means each character is individually sketched out, and once you get a hold on their names (no easy task with names like Jasper, Patricia, Ophelia and then their nicknames, Spurs, Truffle and Touchy Pheely respectively) then you're sorted.

Tongue in Cheek is a mesmerising novel of rural sins, from drugs and tongue-waggling gossip, to adultery and unstoppable love. I became addicted to my Oddlode-fix and devoured this enthralling book far too quickly. Now I'm waiting for the next two instalments of the Lodes Chronicles (the other being the – also brilliant – Lots of Love). [Charlotte Howells]

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Stately Pursuits' by Katie Fforde.

Posted by Aigua Media on June 2, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Series | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 30, 2006 6:07 PM

BOOK REVIEW : The Tenth Circle by Jodi Picoult

Tenth I'm a big fan of Jodi Picoult. Since reading 'My Sisters Keeper' I have been systematically working my way through everything she has written. Whilst a couple of books are a little weaker than the rest, you're pretty much guaranteed that when you pick up one Pioult's book you're going to get a well written, thought-provoking read. I'm also a big fan of comic books (I've never been the girliest girl) so when I found that this, her most recent book, was in part about a comic book artist I was eager to begin. Imagine my joy to find the book also contained graphic art...

'The Tenth Circle' focuses on the family Stone - father Daniel, mother Laura and daughter Trixie. Daniel grew up as the only white boy in an Inuit village, and spent all his time being mocked and bullied because he was not a native. After teenage tragedy, he ran from Alaska and developed his skill as a comic book artist. A chance meeting with Laura resulted in a pregnancy and marriage - just the things Daniel needed to reinvent himself and put his past behind him. When his fifteen year old daughter comes home and tells him she's been raped by her ex-boyfriend Jason, he feels the past swelling up inside him once more. Laura, a lecturer at the local university whose elective on Dante's "Inferno" is one of the most popular courses, doesn't know what to do. Her daughter is hurting, her husband is hurting, and she feels further from the family than ever before.

The story primarily follows Daniel and Trixie as they both struggle to come to terms with what has happened. The tragic circumstances of rape from both the victim, and the alleged perpetrator's point of view are carefully examined. The reader quickly realises that just because someone says a rape has occured it doesn't mean it has, and that just because someone says it hasn't occured doesn't mean it hasn't. The inner turmoil of the families and authorities is clear to see - there doesn't appear to be any clear way to solve the puzzle.

As the book progresses, we are treated to Daniel's current graphic project - a tale of a father and daughter which mirrors Laura's teaching of Dante's "Inferno". This reinforces the themes of the book, and also seeks to give a further insight into Daniel and his past which Picoult only hints at.

This is a well thought out book which aims to deal with a highly emotive and potentially controversial topic. Whilst it is diffiult to take the side of either Trixie or Jason, I found myself feeling empathy toward both of them at times- I felt my eyes were definitely opened to the fact that situations like this are frequently not as black and white as they appear. I found it difficult to put down, and also found myself rushing through a chapter to get to the next installment of Daniel's work. People who aren't fans of graphic art shouldn't be put off by this - its a very small proportion of the book.

Definitely worth a read!

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Sundowners' by Lesley Lokko

Posted by Jenni on May 30, 2006 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 25, 2006 11:54 AM

BOOK REVIEW : It's Different For Girls by Jo Brand

Itsdifferent A while back I read a book by comedienne Sandi Toksvig and found it sadly lacking. Whereas I find the lady herself pretty amusing, her efforts at writing fell a little flat. So it was with some trepidation that I decided to read this book by Jo Brand. She has to be one of my favourite funny people at the moment - would I enjoy the book or would it go the same way as Sandi's?

'It's Different For Girls' is set in Hastings during the 1970s. Susan is the middle child of a family teetering on the brink of becoming dysfunctional. Her older sister looks set to provide the first grandchild, and her younger sister is so intent on appearing intellectual that she has little time for anything else. Susan feels she's the most normal of them all - but she needs to try hard to stay this way. When Rachel, a new girl, starts at her school she sees a potential ally in these difficult times of being a teenager. They realise that the best way of emerging from the other side of the teens is to stick together.

Their friendship blossoms, as does their increasing interest in boys. Nothing really starts to get going for them until Dave appears on the scene. He's an art student from London and Rachel is quickly smitten. As we all remember so well, the true path of teenage love never runs smooth, and the book turns into a sometimes poignant look at falling in and out of love, and the consequences it has on everyone in the vicinity.

Brand creates realistic characters in a plot anyone could identify with, at least in part. She uses the trends of the time cleverly - moving through times of hippies and punks, the mood of the country reflects the mood of the featured characters. There are some laugh out loud moments, but Brand's own spirit comes through the writing more in the observations of human beings and their interactions.

This book is well written, and very entertaining. Definitely worth a look.

Rating : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Ten Steps To Happiness' by Daisy Waugh

Posted by Jenni on May 25, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 18, 2006 2:07 PM

BOOK REVIEW : Undead and Unwed by MaryJanice Davidson

Unwed It's often rare to find a chick-lit novel that doesn't circle around a fashionable, single City chick with a high-flying career (or, well, dreams of one). However, MaryJanice Davidson has brought forth a whole new concept to the genre with her Undead series; a chatty, knowledgeable and good-looking heroine who just so happens to be a vampire.

Okay, I was surprised to see this as I wandered through my local bookstore. 'Vampire chick-lit? Eh?' It's a novel idea. And to be completely honest…it works very well indeed.

After a fatal car accident, Shoe-addicted secretary Betsy Taylor wakes up to find herself in the city morgue. Yep, she's dead. Undead, for that matter. And regardless of her many failed suicide attempts in order to check out if she really IS dead, she's staying that way.

After discovering her brand new powers; superhuman strength and the ability to seduce any man in the vicinity, Betsy soon realises that something is very, very amiss. It doesn't take her long to find out what's happened; she's a vampire. Not only that, but she's the foretold vampire Queen.

As if being dead and the leader of the world's most peculiar bunch of after-dark folk isn't enough, Betsy runs into more trouble when she meets the wonderfully handsome yet seemingly sinister Eric Sinclair. Apparently, the Queen's evil rival Nostro is planning an uprising, which isn't all that great seeing as she also has to deal with the shoe-swiping stepmother from Hell (well, not literally, but you know…)

Unwed is the first of MaryJanice Davidson's witty, popular series. With a fast-paced plot, a hilarious host of characters and some amusing parodies of the usual vampire clichés, this book is guaranteed to entertain the vampire fans and paranormal newcomers alike.

A must-read? Definitely.

At whatever time of the night! [Danielle Symonds-Yemm]

Rating : 4 out of 5

Posted by Aigua Media on May 18, 2006 in American Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

May 17, 2006 10:44 AM

BOOK REVIEW - Baby Come Back by Maeve Haran

Babycome This book by Maeve Haran deals with a subject many of us wouldn't expect in a chicklit novel - the search for the birth parents of an adopted child. This focusses on Joe Meredith as he decides to look for the answers to the questions that have remained unanswered for all of his life. Now that he and his wife have just had their first baby, the questions are nagging more than ever. But should some secrets remain untold...

Molly, Joe's wife has always known how much being adopted bothers her husband. Whilst his adopted parents loved him dearly he has never felt that he quite belongs. She's used to him being overwhelmed by dark times when he retreats into himself - surely if he gets the answers to the questions he's so desperate to ask, their life with their new baby Eddie will be steadier. Never one to sit and think about doing something Molly dashes straight to the library and doesn't stop until she has found the answer Joe wanted. There's just one problem... it turns out Joe's birth mother is Stella Milton, the actress plastered across the walls of every teenage boy in the country for the last twenty years.

Stella is shocked when Joe rings her... after giving him up so that she could pursue her then fledgling career she never expected to hear from him again. Its a bit of an inconveniece to be perfectly honest - it's hard enough these days persuading casting directors to give her the siren roles that have shaped her career, the world finding out that she has a grown up son... and horror of horrors is a grandmother would be the end of her. Behind closed doors though she is surprised by the feelings she has toward her son... if only she could have him without the baggage of his wife and child.

The book follows the power struggle that ensues between Molly and Stella. Stella is aided and abetted by her agent, though he's a little more keen on the publicity that a tearful reunion could bring. Molly has to rely on the support of her best friend Claire, and a few surprising co-conspirators.

This book is light hearted, but does not shy away from the issues it is dealing with. Whilst few adopted children will find that they have movie stars for their parent(s), they will more than likely experience the same highs and lows that Joe goes through. The characters are well written, and help to make this an enjoyable read.

Score : 4 out of 5

Like this? Try 'Dancing With Mules' by Morag Prunty.

Posted by Aigua Media on May 17, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 10, 2006 11:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW: Tickled Pink by Christina Jones

Tickled At one point in 'Tickled Pink', author Christina Jones makes a joke about Katie Fforde's countryside capers. Irony is obviously not lost on this author, who's created the fictional village of Steeple Fritton for precisely the same reason, to bring us a funny tale of life in rural Britain, where people have names like Glad Blisset, Tatty Spry and Rose Lusty (apparently) and everyone knows everyone else's business.

I must admit, the ridiculous names in this novel did drive me mad. I've never lived in Berkshire but I did grow up in a village similar to Steeple Fritton, and most of the people I knew had normal names. However, you've got to admire an author who names her main characters Posy, Lola, Ellis and Flynn and still pokes fun at someone (the aforementioned Tatty) who picks unusual names for her children.

The silly names aside, Tickled Pink is a good read about a village trying to stay on its feet. It's probably not the book for you if you're used to urban tales of life in London where designer names are mentioned every couple of pages and characters happily spend £6 on a glass of wine. However, I found myself reading late at night and almost missing my tube stop in anticipation of the final chapter. What Jones does do well is keep up guessing for more than the first three pages as to who is going to end up with who and what's going to become of all the characters (and indeed the village).

Though the cast of characters is fairly large (and can be hard to keep track of because of all those funny names) the tale really concentrates on twenty-something jilted bride Posy, whose parents run Steeple Fritton's doomed B&B, and the B&B's latest resident, fifty year old Lola, a mistress mourning the love of her life. The main menfolk are young heartbreaker Ellis and American John Cusack lookalike Flynn. Together, this 'young' contingent aim to keep Steeple Fritton going by bringing in visitors. How? Well that would be telling, but it does include steam engines, a kareoke machine and a pair of ill-fitting Jimmy Choos. That's all I'm saying.

Though Tickled Pink is not the type of book I'd usually go for, I found myself really enjoying it and wanting to jump on a train and go back home to see if I could do the same to my village. Posy and Lola are great characters with faults as well as good qualities, and the mad cast of 'extras' help keep the story ticking over. All in all, it's a good escapist novel about what we all wish the countryside was like. Sadly, I don't know of a Steeple Fritton anywhere... [Gemma Cartwright]

Like this? Try Stately Pursuits by Katie Fforde

Posted by Aigua Media on May 10, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (4)

May 8, 2006 11:00 AM

BOOK REVIEW - Mr Commitment by Mike Gayle

Mrcommit When I was younger, I was less determined when it came to reading. I still read and read and read, but if I found a book wasn't grabbing my attention right from the start I would give up on it and move onto the next. These days I'm a bit more stubborn - in roughly the last five years the total number of books I've started and not finished is a grand... one! I now am of the firm belief that by sticking with a book you may discover a gem that you would otherwise have discarded - I'm right for about 3 books in 10! This book by Mike Gayle is such an example. I actually did try and read this years agao and gave up after about the first 20 pages. This tmie I got to the same point... started to feel a dreadful sense of deja vu... and carried on reading. Boy was I glad I did!

'Mr Commitment' tells the tale of Duffy. He considers his life to have reached a worrying stage; his job as a temp is starting to look more and more like it will end up being permanent, his ambitions of becoming a top stand up comic don't seem to be progressing in the way he would like, all around him people are beginning to settle down... including his girlfriend Mel! Now whilst he loves Mel dearly he's just not so sure that he wants to marry her. Well its not exactly that he doesn't want to marry her, he's just not sure that it's the right thing to do. Sounds like one confused bloke? Yup thats precisely the diagnosis he'd give himself.

Duffy knows that Mel isn't going to wait for him forever. In actual fact he think's he's about to push her that one step too far, but he just can't help himself. The book follows the mess he gets himself in, and the efforts he goes to in order to try and dig himself out of the cavernous pit he seems so intent on chucking himself into.

I think this book will be a revelation to many. Men will read it and think - ah yeah, I get ya mate. Women, well they'll read it and think - I always knew he just wasn't ready to grow up yet. The beauty of this book is in it's realism. It's written in such a way that anyone will be able to put themselves in the shoes of both Duffy and Mel, and realise that the old adage 'men are from Mars, women are from Venus' is still as true today as ever.

I am really pleased I perservered with reading this book. I found myself desperate to get back to reading it whenever I was supposed to be doing something else. Definitely one to read!

Like this? Try 'The Last Available Man' by Cindy Blake.

Posted by Aigua Media on May 8, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

May 5, 2006 11:00 AM

Just Desserts - Book Review

Justdesserts I wasn't 100% sure about this book by Sue Welfare, set amongst adulterous businessmen and women, and long term housewives, it sounded as though it was a world so far from my reality that I didn't think I would be able to find anything to identify with. However, the promise of cosy cafes, freedom and revenge I decided to give it a go - I had a feeling there may be a strong "sisters are doing it for themselves" them that might be interesting.

Katherine and Harry have been married for over twenty years. Whilst he spends half his time away on "business" trips with his long-term mistress, she spends her time plotting ways to do away with him. When a glamorous location scout approaches Katherine about using the exterior of their beautiful country home, she starts to think about the future. All she can currently see stretching in front of her is endless years of getting the tea on the table, and never managing to iron Harry's shirts quite to the level of perfection that he demands. Harry has no intentions of leaving - he's quite happy having his cake and eating it too! Carol, the other woman, is relatively happy - she gets to go on a good number of trips in her role as mistress, but surely there's more to life than this.

So when Katherine finally decides to stand on her own two feet and throws Harry out, the tentative equilibrium becomes shattered. He heads straight for Carol - but she doesn't remember asking him to move in... but less asking to become his housemaid and lackey. Whilst Katherine attempts to forge ahead and build a new life for herself, Carol begins to panic and hunt for the emergency stop button! As for Harry... well he remains thick-skinned and oblivious to anything going on around him.

This book was a real surprise to me. It moved at a good pace, and didn't resort to painting either woman in a saintly or devilish light. It highlighted carefully that in a set up like this everyone has a role to play and no one is without blame. Harry however... well he's a different story. I defy anyone to like him, the best I could muster was an ocassional twinge of pity for how pathetic he managed to be. I loved the addition of Geoff and Ray, Carol's next door neighbours - they were rich supporting characters who added a lot of colour to the proceedings.

I enjoyed this book, but don't know that it would be enough to make me go out and hunt through my local bookshop for any of Welfare's other books. If I did happen across one however I'd probably give it a go!

Like this? Try 'Why Not? by Shari Low

Posted by Aigua Media on May 5, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 28, 2006 12:00 PM

The Perfect Age - Review

Perfectage After watching huge numbers of episodes of Las Vegas back to back I've developed a bit of a thing for the place (one day I'll get to go and visit for myself) and so when I saw this book by Heather Skylar was set in Vegas it sparked my interest immediately. This was a book of love; unrequited, forbidden, first and possibly more set against the backdrop of the natives of this bustling place of fantasies. I could hardly contain myself as I opened the book and began to read...

The book centres around the Larkin family; father Edward, mother Kathy, and daughters Helen and Jenny. It is the summer vacation, and Helen takes a position as lifeguard at the Dunes Hotel. Quickly she realises that in this past year as well as turning 15 she has turned the corner toward adulthood. As she spends her days watching the various men around her, she realises that they're watching her back. She's been in a relationship with Leo for a long time now, but she begins to wonder whether or not she's still in it for the sheer comfort factor.

At the same time Edward is being tempted by mysterious notes posted under his office door at the university where he lectures. He's strayed from his wife once before, he's just not sure whether to go for it again. Kathy's also tempted by someone else - her life feels like it has become stale, her kids have grown up and her marriage is in a rut. Jenny is growing up pretty fast, but with the rest of her family preoccupied with their own problems, no one seems to be noticing.

This book is a careful observation of this family over three summers. Interestingly, Skylar chose to concentrate only on the summers, the heat adding an extra plot point. Each of the characters has its own distinct story, yet in the very nature of family, each story becomes entwined with the rest. The characters are accurately created, both those that the story centres around and those stood more on the sidelines.

I loved this book. For anyone thinking at the moment of what to pack in their suitcase this year that wants a book with a bit more depth I would recommend this strongly. I couldn't put it down!

Like this? Try 'Drop City' by T.C. Boyle

Posted by Aigua Media on April 28, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 26, 2006 1:11 PM

How Was It For You?

Howwas This offering from Carmen Reid appeared on the face of it to be pretty standard fare - couple from the city are sick of the problems they're facing, so they decide to run away to the simple life in the country which will make it all better. Thankfully though, in a change from many of the other similar books out there, Reid doesn't rely on the plot device of moving to the country being a magic wand. Instead, our sometimes loving couple find that whilst they may have left their old problems behind, they've just run into a whole bunch of new ones...

For the last five years Pamela and Dave have been facing the nightmare situation so many of us dread. faced with the problems of infertility they have chosen to try IVF, but it has failed time and time again. When their latest cycle also ends in failure they start to wonder what the future holds. Are they as a couple strong enough t0 survive another go and if they're not, what should they do now?

Dave reveals a possible solution. He has, though this comes as something of a surprise to Pamela, always dreamed of owning his own farm. When the possibility of a small organic vergetable farm comes up he's adamant that this is the way to solve all their problems. By taking a year off from the treatment cycles, and leaving their highly stressful existences for the simple life, surely all the wounds will begin to heal? Pamela isn't so sure, but when her demanding boss pushes her one step too far she decides its got to be worth a try.

Upon reching the country, Dave and Pamela meet a whole new lifestyle complete with new people soon to become friends. There's only one problem as far as Pamela's concerned, strawberry farmer Lachlan is very attractive - she's not sure she wants to be just friends.

On the whole this book is well written and thought out. My major gripe however is in the very stereotypical farming characters - all the women wear flowery pinnies, and the children have rosy red cheeks. Sadly I don't remember a single farmer's child at my school (and there were plenty) looking anything like this stereotype - or their mothers! Whilst this is a shame, it doesn't detract from the overall book which I found highly entertaining.

Like this? Try 'Where Have All The Boys Gone?' by Jenny Colgan

Posted by Aigua Media on April 26, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 24, 2006 1:17 PM

Chasing Lily

Lily I was drawn to this book like a magpie is drawn to shiny things. The cover is nothing original, but its bright colours and slightly cartoonish drawings really appealed to me. From the cover and the blurb on the back of the book I was expecting a fast paced book, plenty of excitement and a thrilling romantic thread running throughout. Was I going to find the book I thought I was or was I to be sadly disappointed?

Lily Redmond is on a mission. Her grandmother Lillian, for who she is named, has decided that getting old is a bit boring. To liven it up she is going to revisit her days as a Hollywood film noir starlet and try and solve the murder that brought about the end of her promising career. Lily's parents, staid, quiet, respectable, are horrified by the prospect of the scandal rearing its ugly head once more and so send her to take her grandmother on a trip to try and talk her out of it. Unfortunately when Lily arrives at Lillian's house she finds that Lillian has left already, and instead she's left the handsome form of Sam Spade Hunter handcuffed to the bed!

Sam is a private detective. His father was the bodyguard of the murder victim all those years ago (he was off duty at the time) and knows that if Lillian is going to start digging into the past that her life will become endangered once more. Very quickly Sam realises that he won't be able to continue on his mission to find and protect Lillian without Lily tagging along. The only problem is that she's the spitting image of her grandmother when she was at the peak of her career - the stuff of Sam's boyhood dreams.

And so the chase begins across America. Lily and Sam are hot on the trail of Lillian, but quickly find that they are not the only ones - there are other groups on their trail, groups eager to find Lillian and shut her up. A fantastically chaotic tale ensues, at times it feels a little like 'Wacky Races' meets 'The Godfather'. The pace moves between fast and frenetic, and the tension between Sam and Lily builds at an almost equal speed.

I could not put this book down. The cartoon style cover was an indication of the content - many of the characters are slightly exagerated in the manner of many of the great cartoons. The pace was just right, and at times I found I couldn't turn the pages fast enough. I would recommend this to anyone!

Like this? Try One For The Money by Janet Evanovich

Posted by Aigua Media on April 24, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 20, 2006 11:42 AM

Ralph's Party

Ralph Lisa Jewell is one of those authors who has found a sure-fire way of making each book a hit. The secret? She writes real life stories about real life people facing real life dilemmas. Every time you pick up one of her books you can see yourself or your friends in the story and often end up wondering how you would have reacted in that situation. So as I started reading this story about flat shares and romances I wondered who I'd see this time...

Ralph and Smith have broken one of the cardinal rules - never share accomodation with your best friend. Thankfully for them it hasn't been the stuff of nightmares we are lead to believe about flatshares, neither of them finds themselves spending all their waking minutes plotting evil ways to do away with the other (we've all been there!). But when money starts to become a bit of a worry for both of them they decide its time to get around to re-letting the third room... enter Jem. As soon as she moves in, Jem knows that one of them is 'The One' - problem is she's not quite sure which one.

At the same time in the flat above Ralph and Smith's, Karl and Siobhan are enjoying the settled, cohabiting life. It seems that nothing can spoil their non-wedded bliss... although Cheri who lives in the attic flat maybe. She's decided that she's taken a liking to Karl - and she's used to getting what she wants... girlfriend or no girlfriend.

And so begins a tangled web of lives and loves. People are falling in and out of love at almost every page turn, and there is a great mix of moments to make you laugh, gasp and outwardly cringe. I actually found myself shouting at one of the characters a couple of time - I normally only shout at people on the tv!

Jewell excels once more in this modern romance, both the characters and plot are incredibly realistic. I found myself drawn completely into this book - I couldn't put it down. Definitely one to read.

Like this? Try Getting Personal by Chris Manby

Posted by Aigua Media on April 20, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 18, 2006 4:32 PM

The Man From Perfect

Manfrom The Man From Perfect is Andrea Semple's third book and the premise is what the movie industry would call "high-concept". Basically Ella Holt wins her ideal man in a competition run by a new dating agency. After recently ending a disappointing relationship with "Rob the Slob" who was more interested in his Playstation than in her, Ella is ripe for some special treatment, and she certainly gets that from James Masters with whom she has been "scientifically matched"...

James is not only gorgeous and rich, he's also an airline pilot and he seems absolutely crazy about Ella, but it's obvious from quite early on in the relationship that he's not as nice as he appears. For one, he never answers his mobile phone when he's with Ella - always a giveaway that something dodgy's going on - plus he seems like he may be hiding a less than perfect temper. But can Ella get over her Prince Charming fantasy - and her parents' expectations - and realise James may not be the man for her after all?

Semple cleverly parallels Ella story both with that of Cinderella (Ella, geddit?) and Frankenstein, and there are some damn good jokes in there too (one about Maroon 5 in particular made me snort with laughter). I found the scientific matching bit to be a little far-fetched, but if you're willing to suspend disbelief for a couple of chapters, the rest of the book gets back to reality (well, romance-reality, anyway!).

Like a lot of chick lit, there are few surprises and you could probably work out exactly what happens just from reading the back cover blurb, but it's no less entertaining for that. Some excellent supporting characters, fun situations and good one-liners make The Man From Perfect another winner for Andrea Semple. I'm looking forward to seeing what she does next. [Keris Stainton]

Posted by Aigua Media on April 18, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 14, 2006 7:02 PM

A Long Way Down

Longway I've been a fan of Nick Hornby ever since 'Fever Pitch' - the combination of two of my favourite things in the world, books and football, was enough to get me hooked. When I read the blurb about this book I was initially a little sceptical. The subject matter didn't strike me as something that was going to make a particularly gripping read. So it was with trepidation that I opened the front cover of my copy...

The story begins on New Years Eve. Four people have all decided that their lives have reached the point of no return, and so they all head for Topper's House, the most popular spot in North London for suicide. As each of them reaches the roof, they are dismayed to find that they are not the only one to have had the idea to end it all tonight. Each unwilling to share this moment with anyone else, they all end up talking and discovering more about each other.

The four central characters couldn't have less in common. Martin is a TV presenter whose scandalous behaviour has drawn more tabloid coverage than he could ever have wanted, Maureen can't cope with nursing her severely disabled son any longer, Jess is a cloud of teenage hormones and angst, and JJ... well no one is quite sure what's motivating JJ. By the end of the evening all four remain resolute in their intention to commit suicide, but tonight no longer seems like the night. So instead the group set a date to meet once more and see if they still feel as they do now.

The book follows the four characters through the next few months of their lives. Slowly but surely as we begin to find out more and more about the characters, their lives become more and more interwoven. What initially seems like a potentially bleak story becomes instead a study of modern humanity.

I enjoyed this book more than I expected to. I don't think its quite up there with some of his previous efforts, but it is still definitely worth a read.

For bargain hunters in the UK, this book has just hit the shops in paperback and is half price in most well known bookstores this week!

Like this? Try The Family Way by Tony Parsons.

Posted by Aigua Media on April 14, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 13, 2006 5:54 PM

Not Married, Not Bothered

Married I picked this book up thinking that it was going to be the usual tale of 'single thirty-something, looking for love, finds it in the most unlikely place and happy ever after', and was pleasantly surprised that it offered more. The story is styled as an alphabetical guide to what it means to be a spinster but is actually a cleverly written story of the narrator's life...

Said narrator, Riley, is in her fifties and on realising this in the first chapter I was tempted to put the book aside, thinking it might be something of an 'aga-saga'. If I had I would've missed out on a treat as I really enjoyed reading this and it definitely written for a younger audience.

The story unfolds across a period of thirty years, with scenes from today and previous periods in Riley's life intertwined. She introduces her friends and family, including her Daily Mail-reading, utterly batty mother, and we come to understand her relationship with her dead father. However, the main theme is exploring the relationships she's had and her feelings about marriage and children. There are plenty of references to modern culture and anyone who reads the endless newspaper headlines about the dangers of being single will enjoy how these are challenged!

This book has got some great twists in the story, which will prove unexpected for even the most cynical reader, and, while it doesn't have a traditional happy ever after ending, it leaves you with a nice warm feeling about life. I'd recommend this to anyone who fancies some 'chick lit with a brain'. [Emma Tazewell]

Posted by Aigua Media on April 13, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

April 11, 2006 4:28 PM

Alphabet Weekends

Elizabeth Noble made a triumphant entry to the world of chicklit with her brilliant debut 'The Reading Group'. Sadly her second novel, 'The Tenko Club' didn't quite live up to my expectations and I found myself wondering whether she ws to become a one hit wonder or whether she was victim of "rushed second book" syndrome. As soon as I saw 'Alphabet Weekends' on the shelves at my local bookstore I knew I had to read it - I really hoped that it was going to be as good as her first effort.

'Alphabet Weekends' begins with what is possible the world's longest prologue (please comment if I'm wrong!!) which introduces the characters within this book. Natalie is heartbroken, her fiance has finished with her just days before Christmas. Tom, her lifelong best friend, has invited her to spend New Years Eve with him back at the local pub they grew up near - its that or mope on her own. As Natalie heads along the motorway toward her childhood home she remembers a pact she and Tom made when they were younger - if they were both still single at the age of 30 then they would marry each other. Having passed the big 3-0 she decides to take him at his word and as Big Ben chimes to herald the new year she proposes in her extreme drunken state. At the same time their brothers, sisters and parents all welcome in the new year in their own ways - we get a snippet of each of these by way of introduction to everyone else featured in the story.

In true morning-after-the-night-before fashion, Natalie wakes up on New Years Day with a monster hangover, and a sense of dread in her stomach. When she remembers what she did the night before she wonders how she's going to face anyone. Tom however remembers clearly the events of the night before, and decides that he's going to take Natalie at her word. Whilst she thinks now that the idea of them becomeing a couple is completely abhorent, he thinks that given enough time he can prove her wrong. So he proposes 'Alphabet Weekends'... they will take it in turns to select an activity for the pair of them to try, following the alphabet. And this is where the story truly begins...

The book follows Natalie and Tom as they wind their way through the alphabet. At the same time it follows the events in the lives of their friends and families, cleverly weaving the two themes together. There is a true mix of the good, the bad and the ugly - you move seamlessly from laugh at loud moments, to the more tender and poignant. I loved this about the book, it seemed so true to life.

Elizabeth Noble has definitely got herself back on an even keel with this book. Whilst 'The Tenko Club' wasn't a dreadful book, it definitely didn't reach the heights of 'The Reading Group' - thankfully this is back up there. A well created set of characters combined with a clever plot and structure makes this a truly enjoyable read. This is a great book for holiday reading, but would work equally well on the morning commute, or for a bit of 'me-time'.

Like this? Try P.S. I Love You by Cecelia Ahern

Posted by Aigua Media on April 11, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 10, 2006 11:00 AM

Goodnight Nobody

Goodnight Nobody is a bit of a change of direction for Jennifer Weiner, whose previous books include In Her Shoes (recently a Cameron Diaz film) and Good In Bed. It's still chick lit, but it's also a murder mystery. (Chick Lit Mystery is the Next Big Thing, doncha know?)

Thanks to a broken heart and a chance rebound meeting on a flight, Kate Klein has found herself living in a wealthy suburban Connecticut community where the women are perfect wives and mothers with no career aspirations or discernable personalities. Or so Kate thinks. But when she finds her neighbour with a knife stuck in her back and Kate's former flame's phone number written on her notepad, Kate sees an opportunity to get some excitement back in her life by investigating the murder herself and along the way learns there's more to her neighbours than she ever could have imagined.

I've loved all of Jennifer Weiner's books. She's a fabulous writer - insightful, funny and clever - and Goodnight Nobody doesn't disappoint. Kate's disillusionment and frustration with a life she never planned to have and isn't sure she wants are beautifully conveyed. Kate's former crush, Evan, is funny and sexy, and her husband Ben is unsympathetic without being wet. But, for me, it's Kate's best friend Janie who really makes this book something special. Fantastically ballsy and hilariously funny I really hope Weiner gives her her own book. Weiner also shows her skill at creating a wide range of characters - whilst in 'In Her Shoes' it was her portrayal of the elderly that was so enthralling, this time it is the children who try at every turn to steal the attention.

Don't be put off by the mystery aspect - if you've read and enjoyed Weiner's previous novels you can't fail to enjoy this. The combination of great characters and a plot that springs surprises at every turn make this a great read. In my opinion she goes from strength to strength. [Keris Stainton]

Like this? Try Welcome To Temptation by Jenny Crusie

Posted by Aigua Media on April 10, 2006 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 7, 2006 12:53 PM

Just Like Heaven

Justlike A few months ago I was sitting in the cinema waiting for something marvellously girly to begin (must have been pretty memorable as I can't remember for the life of me what it was) and the trailer for "Just Like Heaven" played. It looked like a pretty standard chick flick but definitely seemd like my sort of film so I added it to my mental list of 'films to see'. Sadly I never got around to it and it was relegated to my 'DVDs to rent' list all to quickly. Imagine then my joy when browsing around my library that I found Marc Levy's novel upon which the film was based. Released originally in 2000 as "If Only It Were True", Harper Collins reissued the book under the name "Just Like Heaven" with the film poster as the new cover. Faster than you could say 'I've got to read this' I was at the counter checking it out and rushing home to read it. But was it going to live up to my expectations?

The story begins with Lauren, a resident in a busy ER department. Delighted by the prospect of her two days off coinciding with the weekend she jumps into her car and heads off to visit friends. Sadly tragedy strikes and she crashes only a few hundred yards from her home and ends up lay in a hospital bed in a deep coma. So enter Arthur, a few weeks on, who has just moved into a fabulous new apartment. Imagine his shock when he finds a girl in his closet... a girl who is amazed that he can see her and hear her... a girl who tells him that her body is lying in a coma on the other side of town - yup you've guessed it, it's Lauren.

And so start the fun and games. Arthur is the only person who can see, and hear Lauren - very quickly his friends, colleagues and random strangers begin to think that he has lost his mind. When the doctors caring for Lauren and her mother make the decision to withdraw treatment Arthur and Lauren enter a race against time to save her.

On the surface of it, this tale of a man and 'spirit' seems at the very least far-fetched. However as soon as I started to read I found myself being drawn further and further into the magic. Levy has obviously researched the concept of deep coma thoroughly, at times I did find myself drifting off and wondering about something like this happening in real life. The book benefits from a small group of very well written characters who carry the story along at a great pace.

I loved this book, and its only made me more eager to see the film based on it. I'm fairly convinced that the two may well bear only a passing resemblence to each other - many of the events shown in the trailer for the film don't happen in the book.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone as a quick and enjoyable read.

Like this? Try Under My Spell by Deborah Wright

Posted by Aigua Media on April 7, 2006 in American Authors, Debut Novels, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

April 4, 2006 1:30 PM

A Friend Of The Family

Friendoffamily This offering from Lisa Jewell is a tale of a family, nothing unusual for chicklit, but with the twist that the offspring are all boys. Could a book about sons and brothers be anywhere near as captivating as one about daughters and sisters? As I opened the cover and began to read I hoped that cuppa wasn't going to let me down...

Bernie and Gerald London are the proud parents of three sons; Tony, Sean and Ned. Throughout their childhood they brought the boys up with a strong sense of family togetherness - as adults they all still migrate back to the nest for Sunday lunch. We enter this scene of family at a point of change for each of the boys - Tony is suddenly faced by the prospect of divorce and realising that middle-aged spread may have hit slightly sooner than scheduled, Ned flies home from his travels in Australia out of the blue and with no apparent reason, and Sean is suffering from a lengthy bout of writer's block. To top it all off, Bernie has taken in a lodger - Gervaise - a scruffy, enigmatic waif who appears to have no past.

Slowly but surely the path of each son unfolds, and surprisingly Gervaise bec0mes an intrinsic character in each of their lives. Offering little gems of advice, and the occasional shoulder to lean on, he helps each son to begin to work through the problems they face. This is not met with welcoming arms at all times - each son finds himself wondering on multiple occasions just who is Gervaise and why is he in their lives? This is a question I found myself asking throughout as well - the inclusion of the character was a clever way to keep the reader's interest.

The characters are all very realistic in this book - it made a very refreshing change to read about brothers and their relationships. My only slight gripe (and it really is slight) is the fact that Jewell chose to give the family the surname London, as well as setting the book in London. Now whilst I'm aware there are probably thousands of people named London living in London, it just felt a bit odd reading it, particularly in the emails included in the book.

I enjoyed this book, it was a refreshing variation on a theme with a well thought out plot and set of characters. Whilst its not a novel to set the world alight its definitely worth a read - pack it in your suitcase for the beach!

Like this? Try Three Wishes by Lianne Moriarty

Posted by Aigua Media on April 4, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

April 3, 2006 11:00 AM

The Boy Next Door

Boynextdoor This is the third effort from the writing partnership of Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees, and probably the one sitting on the most bookshelves across Britain due to its release as a magazine free gift a couple of times since its release. But does the fact that the magazines chose it make it a great read, or did this third book fall short of the mark?

"The Boy Next Door" tells the story of Mickey and Fred, childhood sweethearts - the stereotypical boy and girl next door. Inseperable, the couple share everything, until one summer they are unexpectedly torn apart. Fifteen years later they are firmly ensconced in all things adult. Fred is preparing to marry his girlfriend, the insatiable Rebecca, in a matter of weeks, and Mickey living with her son Joe is starting her own florists business. They bump into each other for the first time, and feel their stable existences begin to turn upside down.

The story of Fred and Mickey re-meeting is told alongside the story of their childhood and their separation. This is a clever tack to take - things are hinted at near the beginning of the book that aren't expanded upon until much later in the story which encourages the reader to keep reading, if only to satisfy the pangs of curiosity.

Fred and Mickey were children growing up in the 1980s, the same time much of the target readership (myself included) were growing up. There are a number of incidents that are hugely familiar, at times there is a real sense of reminiscence created.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The characters were as real as those in Lloyd & Rees' previous books, and there is truly a sense of feeling included within the story. I found myself caring deeply about what happened to the characters, and when things I wished for the characters happened I found myself smiling broadly. There is a great balance of the poignant and the laugh out loud that means anyone will find themselves completely absorbed by this tale. Highly recommended!

Like this? Try Vince and Joy by Lisa Jewell

Posted by Aigua Media on April 3, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 23, 2006 11:00 AM

Ten Steps To Happiness

Tensteps The cover of Daisy Waugh's tale of city people moving to the sticks drew me in instantly. A bag with carrots, a bread stick and a mobile made me curious as to the tale that was going to be found within. As a country girl currently living in a city this book was going to talk to me... surely?

Jo is facing the biggest change in her life. A PR girl from London, used to living a bustling metropoitan life, she has just married Charlie. He's a country lad through and through - growing up on a country estate managing livestock is something hard to leave behind. So Jo decides to turn her back on the big smoke and to start a new life in the country. She knows from her years of PR experience that sometimes celebrities experience problems that mean they need a break from the world, usually far away from zoom lenses and prying eyes. She has big plans for Fiddleford, Charlie's childhood home. Tucked away in the middle of nowhere it is the perfect haven to hide people away.

The story starts with a stark reminder of how life in the countryside isn't all sunshine and nuns running up hills and singing. The laughs start with the arrival of the first guests, each bringing their own particular collection of baggage and chaos. The addition of a public health inspector determined to bring the business to an end before it has even officially opened, and a tangled mix of romantic trysts makes this a witty, fast paced read.

At times Waugh's description of the unfolding devastation of the foot and mouth disease epidemic feels too personal - as if the reader is intruding on the event. It is testament to Waugh's writing style that she manages to balance this with light hearted moments, and keeps the reader engaged. The reflection of modern society, and the current obsession with celebrity and its failings is an accurate and witty portrayal of life today.

Waugh creates a great cast of characters, some of them are so close to the mark that you will find yourself actively thinking of how much they remind you of someone you know. You truly want for good things to happen for the nice characters and wish all the bad luck in the world on the characters who are evil through and through. It all adds up to make a cracking read, at times I found myself wishing I was on the beach whilst I was reading!!

Like this? Love Stately Pursuits by Katie Fforde

Posted by Aigua Media on March 23, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 21, 2006 1:36 PM

Come Again

Comeagain Those of you who tuned in last week will know that I really enjoyed reading Josie Lloyd & Emlyn Rees’ debut novel ‘Come Together’. My only gripe? I wanted more… and that’s exactly what I got from this, their second book. ‘Come Again’ takes up the tale just a few months later, but in what seems to be an inspired piece of thinking the focus this time is on some of the minor characters from ‘Come Together’ with Jack and Amy taking a crucial, but minor role.

Matt, best friend of Jack, is feeling a little unsure of himself with all the changes going on around him. H, best friend of Amy is starting to wonder if there’s more to life than her blossoming career. Stringer, friend to the lads, is desperate to find a fulfilling relationship – but is trying hard to hide a secret he can’t bare to even think about. Susie, friend to Amy, threat to H, finally decides that the only way she can sort out her life is if she swears off men for the foreseeable future. Their paths become intertwined as the relationship between Jack and Amy develops.

This is a cleverly thought out book, with the requisite laughs and cringeworthy moments that you expect from writers like this. However, as I read it I found myself preferring the story between Stringer and Susie, than the one between Matt and H which was clearly supposed to be the major thread running throughout the book. This didn’t detract from my enjoyment of the book – in fact it made me feel that this book probably had something to offer for every reader. One of my favourite parts of reading this book was the way you could frequently see what was about to happen – but in the same way you can watch a glass of red wine spill in slow motion over your Mom’s favourite cream rug… you could only watch the events unfold in front of your eyes.

Lloyd and Rees continue where they left off with all of the characters. I loved the way in which they really developed characters who’d been firmly in the background in ‘Come Together’, and the way in which my perception of some of the changed once I knew more about them. I felt a real sense of empathy for the characters and wanted everything to turn out well for them all.

This is a great book, both as a follow up to ‘Come Together’ and as a stand alone novel. It’s written in such a way that if you hadn’t read the previous book it would not matter – there is little of the first book that is referred to in a way that presumes you have read it. I would definitely recommend this to anyone. [Jenni Nock]

If you liked this try The Three Day Rule by Josie Lloyd & Emlyn Rees.

Posted by Aigua Media on March 21, 2006 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 20, 2006 3:39 PM

Beautiful Bodies

Bodies You could be mistaken for thinking Laura Shaine Cunningham's 'Beautiful Bodies' is an attempt at creating another ‘Sex and the City’, given it’s about 6 friends in Manhattan. But don't be fooled. It’s a much more emotional, sensual story of friendship than the former could ever have achieved. All approaching 40, these women have been friends for 20 years, and although they lead entirely different lives, they’re still able to maintain the strong bond that unites them.

The book takes place over 12 hours, during the worst storm to have ever hit New York. Protagonist Jessie is hosting a not-baby-shower for her free-spirited yet stable friend, Claire. After numerous bottles of red wine, many truths are revealed…

Each character has her own unique story told, with Jessie, a journalist and host of the party, being the central character. Whilst she obviously has her mind far, far away, to the mountains of Colorado where she had a muchly-needed romantic encounter prior to the party, she rushes to create a warm atmosphere for the party that she believes will be a disaster. Each guest, bedraggled from the approaching storm and preoccupied with their thoughts, stumbles through her doorway to tell their story. Nina, looking after her dying mother, worries about leaving her alone, and is fixated on remembering a rather unromantic episode with a sexual new-age neighbour.

They are soon joined by Lisbeth, a fragile model, dazed from bumping into a previous flame on the subway; actress Sue Carol carting all her belongings along with her, having left her husband; and Martha, a successful businesswoman, with as much tact as the judges on ‘X Factor'.

As the storm gathers force and the women guzzle all the wine, tempers start flying around the room faster than a bat out of hell. Many secrets are shared, some of which will undoubtedly change their whole friendships. If one thing is clear in this modern tale of friendship, it’s that true friends will always be close to your heart, no matter the geographical distance or difference in lives. Whilst not the usual light-hearted chick-lit book you can leave in the toilet, reading on the occasional visit, it will grip your heart as you become more and more fond of the colourful characters and their complex lives. I found myself unable to put the book down, and even shed a few tears after the climax of the storm and the numerous truths spilled. [Katherine Hannaford]

If you liked this, try The Three Day Rule by Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees.

Posted by gcartwright on March 20, 2006 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

March 8, 2006 4:30 PM

Come Together

We here at Trashionista loved Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees’ latest offering, so I was very tempted by the offer of a copy of their first collaborative effort. 'Come Together' follows the simple, well-tested formula of 'boy meets girl, loses girl and tries to get girl back' (like I was going to tell you whether he was successful or not…), but it's told from both sides. It sounded like a great idea, but was this novel as good as the most recent, or did it take a couple of false starts before our most loved writing duo found their feet?

‘Come Together’ tells the tale of Jack and Amy. Jack loves all the fun and games that come with living the single life. He’s tried being in a long term relationship, but...well, it didn’t work out and who needs that kind of hassle from something that’s supposed to be fun? Amy, on the other hand, hates the single life. It’s been six months since she last got anywhere near a man, and she’s beginning to think there must be something wrong with her. Cue a near-chance meeting, and the beginning of what could be a perfect relationship.

As with any good book, the relationship doesn’t, thankfully, go smoothly. The book proceeds to take us through the twists and turns of the first few months after Jack and Amy meet. Cue some big laughs and even bigger moments to make you cringe. Each incident is hugely believable – you can easily imagine your best mate sat down the pub telling you about it happening to them.

The characters are all hugely realistic. In an escape from some other writers in the chick lit genre, no one is larger than life, or has any extreme characteristics. Instead each character is well-developed and no different from the people you mix with every day. Not once did I stop and think how wrong the authors had gotten it. I think the characters also benefit from the dual-writing – there are none of the moments when you think ‘a (wo)man wouldn’t really do that’.

All in all this is a thoroughly enjoyable, light read. Whilst possibly not quite as slick as their latest novel, this is a fantastic debut offering that few could find fault with. My only gripe when I finished it was that I wanted more… so tune in again tomorrow! [Jenni Nock]

Like this? Try The Three Day Rule by Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees

Posted by gcartwright on March 8, 2006 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

February 23, 2006 2:36 PM

Some Like It Haute

Haute Meet Alex, fashionista extraordinaire and the kind of girl anyone with a Christian Louboutin fetish will hate to love. As a fashion writer with a glamorous life and a seriously enviable wardrobe, she's the kind of heroine you'll only be able to cope with if you devoured novels like The Devil Wears Prada and Fashionistas. If their vacuous fashion-speak drove you mad, give this one a wide berth. Though it's well-written and, in places, laugh-out-loud funny, it's also so fashion, dahhhling that you can barely turn a page without the mention of a designer name...

What makes Some Like It Haute exciting for bloggers like us is that author Julie K. L Dam is also a blogger, running the eponymous blog under the pseudonym of the title character. Taking a look at the blog - which puts daily entries up against photographs of the footwear of the day - gives you a good idea of what to expect from the novel. It's easygoing, fashion-filled and fun with a capital F.

The story takes place in Paris, where Alex is covering the shows (or not covering them, as the case may be) and trying to get the scoop on a top new design talent who disappears straight after his amazing debut show. Intertwined with the mini-mystery is the requisite romantic subplot (with cute anti-fashion boy Nick) and lots and lots of name-dropping. As I said before, if you're not a fashion fanatic, you may find the constant talk of shoes, couture and models too much to take, but designer divas will lap it up.

What impressed me most about this book is that Dam manages the impossible task of making Alex a likeable character, despite the fact that we have a million reasons to be jealous of her. She's sickeningly nice, she's beautiful, she has a killer job to go with her wardrobe and she has a love interest who seems too good to be true. On top of that she's best mates with the PR for Dior (jealous, us?) and gets on wonderfully with her mother (a woman who can afford Chanel couture). All this adds up to the kind of character we'd think 'who cares?' about. But despite all of this, you do find yourself rooting for her.

This is definitely a beachy read, or the kind of thing you dip in and out of on the train / bus to work. It's not for those of you who like to be challenged by their books. It's unapologetically fun and fashiony, aimed at those who rarely read books in between copies of Vogue.

If you liked this, try Beyond The Blonde or Bergdorf Blondes.

Posted by gcartwright on February 23, 2006 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, New Releases, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (3)

February 3, 2006 4:42 PM

Bachelor Boys

Bachelor Cassie Shaw is a perfectly respectable woman and she's seemingly ticked all the right boxes - nice flat, nice boyfriend, nice job. It's all just nice and that is precisely where her life is going wrong. There's no passion and she's with the wrong guy. But someone has got a plan for her...

During her childhood Cassie is practically raised by the loving, wonderful bohemian Phoebe, neighbour to Cassie's parents and a welcome relief to their cold austerity. Cassie would naturally do anything for her Phoebe and her charming, handsome, slightly crazy sons Fritz and Ben. Now Cassie, Fritz and Ben are adults, but cruelly Phoebe has fallen seriously ill and is concerned for her sons' increasingly scatty lives. So she asks Cassie a favour. She wants her sons to 'grow up' at last and for Cassie to find them wives who will care for them when she is gone.

Cassie agrees, though she's faced with a seemingly hopeless task in transforming these playboys. But one thing is clear, she can't possibly let Phoebe down. Phoebe, notably, is a wonderful character brimming with warmth and love and a stoic Englishness. This is her way to, at last, repay Phoebe for so many years of kindness. Along the route, Cassie must face her own demons and find out where her own future lies. But will Fritz and Ben play fair?

The novel tenderly entwines tragedy with laughter and abandonment with love. It has all the elements of chick lit - scatty, warm characters, mixed up relationships and caddish men - yet Saunders brings such depth of emotion, lump in the throat writing, spun up in what is ultimately a love story, that she makes this book really something quite brilliant. [Camilla Chafer]

If you liked this try In Her Shoes by Jennifer Weiner.

Posted by gcartwright on February 3, 2006 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (1)

January 31, 2006 11:57 AM

Marsha Mellow And Me

Mellow_2 How do you tell your mother than you write erotic fiction? That's the problem facing our heroine in Maria Beaumont's witty tale of secrets, lies and consequences. Amy Bickerstaff is leading a double life. By day she's a secretary at a rubbish freebie magazine. But behind closed doors, she's Marsha Mellow, the author of the sex-filled bestseller 'Rings On Her Fingers' and the Daily Mail's biggest enemy...

If you enjoyed Sophie Kinsella's 'Can You Keep A Secret' and Hester Browne's 'The Little Lady Agency', the premise of this book will appeal straight away. It's all about the trouble that secrets can cause and the silly things that happen as a result of them. We spend the entire novel wondering when the penny will finally drop and poor Amy will be 'outed' as the 'sex book' author, and through a series of funny events and close calls, we're lead through a laugh-out-loud read which sees us realising that everyone has a secret!

The characters are fairly instantly recognisable as chick lit regulars - the religious, conservative mother who just wouldn't understand, the quiet and unassuming dad, the pushy sister, the slick and sexy boss, the nasty ex-boyfriend - but the novel doesn't really suffer from a lack of imagination. The set pieces are great and the idea of the sex novel gives the whole thing a new spin and stops it from being just another Bridget Jones-esque romp about single girls who work in publishing.

All in all, this is an enjoyable read with a good, easy plot and a good pace and style. It's witty and modern and a bit edgier than most rivals. Romance isn't the main theme of the story, which is a nice change (though there's plenty of men and (of course) sex to keep us entertained) and the larger-than-life characters make for some great set pieces. Don't expect world-changing literature, but it's a funny, flirty little read!

If you liked this, try Asking For Trouble by Elizabeth Young.

Posted by gcartwright on January 31, 2006 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (5)

January 10, 2006 3:20 PM

Fashion Victim

Victim Picking up a copy of this book I expected a fun and frothy insiders view of the fashion world packed with polished fashionista type characters - the style of book befitting the editor of UK's Cosmopolitan. Boy, was I surprised to find instead a tense tale of murder, mystery and well-dressed intrigue.

Annie Anderson is investigative reporter at The Post until she swaps her newspaper job for one on a glossy magazine in a move that shocks her colleagues and friends. Little do they know that Annie is going undercover for a scoop on the fashion world. Her first foray into the fashion world is nothing short of disastrous, from evil New York cabbies to being held at gunpoint. Then her interviewee, top designer Mark Mailer, is murdered. Annie is convinced Mark's murder has more to it than meets the eye and sets off on a dangerous course to uncover the truth.

Of course, the book has a glamorous backdrop, flitting from New York to Milan and London as the characters rub shoulders with fashion journo's and supermodels, designers and actresses but what sets this book apart from the froth is that there is an element of despair and a glimpse of the seedy side of fame.

Whilst haunted by memories of her past, Annie is forced into a race against time to discover why Mark was murdered, what his girlfriend, struggling junkie and disgraced ex-supermodel Patty, knows and why she too is in danger. But who is the murderer and who wants to throw Annie off the scent - permanently? You'll have to read the book to find out! [Camilla Chafer]

Posted by gcartwright on January 10, 2006 in British Authors, Crime / Mystery, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

November 30, 2005 10:37 AM

The Rocky Road To Romance

Rockyroad I'm a huge Janet Evanovich fan. On my bookcase you'll find every Stephanie Plum novel and every 'Full...' novel (co-written with Charlotte Hughes). They're all, sadly, in less than prestine condition due to the number of times they've been re-read - but that just shows the love! With that in mind, I was obviously curious when I heard that her publisher had decided to re-release 9 of the 12 romance novels that had sparked the beginning of Evanovich's career as a novelist. I was going to love it...wasn't I?

The answer... a resounding yes! 'The Rocky Road To Romance' is the story of Steve Crow, a radio station owner. When his regular traffic reporter goes off sick with a broken leg, he starts to think he's never going to find a replacement. Even the offer of double the salary he was paying his regular guy doesn't seem enough to attract anyone to the position. Just as he's about to give up Daisy Adams appears - well loved on the airwaves for her doggy recipes - but he's not so sure. Working more jobs than she's got fingers on both hands, Daisy is desperate for money, and somehow manages to persuade Steve to take a chance on her.

It all goes well... for a split second, until it becomes clear someone is trying to kill Daisy. When Steve insists on round-the-clock protection for her, he wasn't imagining in his wildest dreams he would have to contend with Elsie Hawkins, an octogenarian, gun-toting, self taught security guard. This would be enough to put up with, if he wasn't starting to fall in love with Daisy as well.

This is a fast paced, laugh out loud, feel good book. The characters are all fantastic, and show the early signs of some of the larger than life characters we all love in the Stephanie Plum series - right down to the first appearance of a 'Bob' dog. Having read the Plum series, the storyline doesn't feel particularly original, instead it feels comfortable like a literary throw blanket.

Definitely worth trying to get hold of a copy!! [Jenni Nock]

The Rocky Road To Romance - Janet Evanovich (Â£4.31)

If you liked this, you might like One For The Money by Janet Evanovich.

Posted by Aigua Media on November 30, 2005 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (3)

November 23, 2005 8:36 PM

Solo

Solo I've been reading Jill Mansell novels for a good few years, and can always rely on her to write easy, witty and surprisingly believable stories. With that in mind, it was really interesting to read this - a re-release of one of her first novels - and see just how much her writing has developed. Ironically, this early work turned out to be one of my favourites...

Solo centres around Tessa, a strong-minded young painter. Unlike a lot of later Mansell novels, which have various stories running in tandem and concentrating on different characters, Solo is esentially all about Tessa, though a great cast of supporting characters do help to pad out the tale to great effect, especially her best friend Holly and her love interest, Max.

Tessa meets ladies man and all-round loathario Ross at a party, and after an ill-advised one night stand, finds herself in trouble a few weeks later when she realises she's pregnant. The bulk of the novel is taken up with her life after this point, and (of course) lots of interesting encounters with the father-to-be.

Though her books don't exactly break any exciting new ground, Mansell can always be relied upon to come up with likeable but realistic characters, a great plot that has you turning the pages at a serious pace, and warm and mushy happy endings that leave you thinking life's just fine, thank you. She's the queen of the romantic comedy novel, and Solo is a great read. While the formulaic romance plot might not be to everyone's tastes, if you like simple, well-written escapism to while away the train journey home, you can't go far wrong with this.

Solo - Jill Mansell Â£5.59

If you liked this, you might like Restoring Grace by Katie Fforde

Posted by gcartwright on November 23, 2005 in British Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (3)

November 18, 2005 4:51 PM

Stately Pursuits

State_1 Hetty Longden has a broken heart. After her boyfriend decided the best way to reveal his affair was for her to find him in bed with the other woman, she needs some time out to wallow, eat chocolate and remember why she doesn't need a man. Her mum has the solution - her Great Uncle Samuel has to go into hospital, and his crumbling stately home needs a housesitter. What better place to get some time to herself than a country house in the middle of nowhere?

When Hetty arrives at the house she starts to think that maybe this plan had a few flaws. Like the fact that in only a matter of weeks the house is to be opened to the public - a yearly event that seems to be the highlight of the village's calendar. And then there's the small case of Connor, Samuel's heir who seems hellbent on turning the house and its land into a theme park. Between thwarting his attempts to seize power whilst getting the house ready to open she's surely not going to have any time to get her life back together.

This book is full of strengths. The plot is one that holds your attention, and is just sitting nicely on the side of believable. The characters are all well written, and you find yourself caught up in the goings on to the extent you can almost start to believe you're a member of the village community.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Its not the fastest paced book, but you don't feel as though it drags - it just meanders along nicely. Definitely one for the beach or tube. [Jenni Nock]

Stately Pursuits - Katie Fforde Â£6.99

If you liked this, you might like Restoring Grace by Katie Fforde

Posted by gcartwright on November 18, 2005 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 12, 2005 12:02 AM

In Her Shoes

Inhershoes_1 If you're fed up of every women's fiction book you pick up being a soppy romance with an unbelievable heroine, In Her Shoes might be a refreshing change. The characters are flawed, the romance is only a sub-plot, and Jennifer Weiner manages to cram a whole lot into the 500-odd pages...

To steal a line from the blurb for the new film version of this novel, Rose and Maggie Feller are two sisters with very little in common besides their shoe size. Rose - a lawyer - is reliable, serious and hardworking. Her younger sister Maggie is frivolous, flirty and trouble with a capital T. She flits from job to job, steals money from her family while staying with them rent-free, and uses her looks to get her way. She blames her learning difficulties for all her problems, and believes they give her carte blanche to act like an irresponsible child.

The story really begins when Maggie goes a step too far and leaves her sister with no choice but to throw her out. Their forced estrangement causes both women to take a good look at their lives and discover what really matters. And that's where the book really begins

Jennifer Weiner writes with great pace and the pages of this book fly by. The sisters are wonderful characters, especially Maggie, who despite her faults is still loveable. Rose has the usual problems of those 'reliable, dull and successful' chick lit heroines; she spends so much time working that she doesn't look after herself, and as a result she's that terrible combination of fat and single. But not for long...

The real strength of this book is in the way it examines the family dynamic. A lot of secrets spill out as the chapters go on. The character of Ella, the girls' grandmother, is as interesting as either of the two young women, and her assorted crew of fellow OAP's have some of the best one-liners in the book.

The book manages to be funny, tragic and a little bit schmaltzy all at the same time, and it's easy to see why it was chosen to be made into a film. There are some great set pieces and loveable characters, but don't expect a storyline full of twists and turns. It's fairly straightforward and as predictable as the rest of the books in the genre, but it's definitely a worthwhile way to spend four quid!

In Her Shoes - Jennifer Weiner (Â£3.99)

If you liked this, you might like The Three Day Rule by Josie Lloyd and Emlyn Rees

Posted by gcartwright on November 12, 2005 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 9, 2005 3:54 PM

Where Rainbows End

Rainbows Readers of the best selling 'P.S. I Love You' will not be disappointed by this book. Cecelia Ahern's second novel tells the story of Rosie and Alex, childhood friends who - through a variety of twists - miss actually getting together, yet stay friends despite everything that life throws at them.

Now, ten pages or so into this book, I did have a 'yikes!' moment. This is not a conventionally written story with nice neat paragraphs. Instead we follow Rosie and Alex via their letters, texts and emails from the age of five and well into adulthood. I feared I would get really ticked off reading this style, but bear with it, because it's really rather good.

During their teens, the young couple are separated when Alex leaves Ireland for the US, never to return for more than a few days. Just as Rosie is going to join him, her life is irreversibly changed and she is forced to stay in Ireland.

Much of the novel is a charming 'what if' story. The strength of Rosie and Alex's friendship is mingled with a catalogue of lost opportunities and misunderstandings as each wonders if they have made the wrong life choices. The prose is funny, the events funnier still, as we read the emails that take us through Rosie's accidental teenage pregnancy to Alex graduating medical school and the birth of his own children, before they are presented with an opportunity that may be their last chance of happinessâ€¦

Will they take it? You'll have to read it and see. [Camilla Chafer]

Where Rainbows End - Cecelia Ahern (Â£3.99)

If you liked this, you might like P.S I Love You by Cecelia Ahern or Boy Meets Girl by Meg Cabot.

Posted by gcartwright on November 9, 2005 in Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5, Romance | Permalink | Comments (2)

November 8, 2005 12:39 PM

Fair Game

Fairgame At just over 500 pages in length, Liz Young's Fair Game is one of the lengthiest chick lit books I've read in a long time. To some people that would be a bad thing...but I like a book I can sink my teeth into. The only worry I have is that the story isn't going to be strong enough to fill the pages, and that I'll get to the end of the book and wish it had been 100 pages shorter, without the excess padding. Thankfully with this book the story filled every last page...

Harriet lives in a dusty old house with Sally and Jacko, two of her oldest friends, and Tom - Sally's baby son. Their lives create plenty of drama, so Harriet is happy to have as uneventful a life as she an - she really doesn't have enough time for problems of her own. This all changes when, in a chance encounter, she meets John. He is gorgeous, there's just the small problem that he's going out with Nina - who Harriet went to school with. But they weren't exactly friends... and he only suggests a quick drink... so it wouldn't be breaking any rules... would it?

The book follows the development of the relationship between Harriet and John... as hard as she tries to keep her distance and not get involved with another woman's boyfriend, the more fate seems to force them together. Many of the incidents are pretty amusing, though these range from the type that bring a smile to your face, through to those that make you laugh out loud (especially great on the train).

I really enjoyed this book. The characters are all well written, including all of the supporting characters. The ending was a nice surprise - whilst it wasn't completely unexpected, it wasn't the most obvious of routes for Young to have taken, for the lead characters or the supporting cast.

I would definitely recommend this book to anyone wanting a well-written book that has the length and depth to keep you entertained for days. [Jenni Nock]

Fair Game - Liz Young

Did You Know?
Elizabeth 'Liz' Young also wrote 'Asking For Trouble', the tale of a woman who hires a male escort to pose as her boyfriend at a family wedding. It was eventually adapted into 'The Wedding Date', a movie starring Will & Grace's Debra Messing and Cutting It's Sarah Parish alongside the gorgeous threesome of Dermot Mulroney, Jeremy Sheffield and Jack Davenport. We've read the book and seen the film and - eye candy aside - we have to say the book is better!

If you liked this, you might like The Last Available Man by Cindy Blake

Posted by gcartwright on November 8, 2005 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 4, 2005 6:42 PM

Three Wishes

Threewish This is a tale of triplet sisters Cat, Lyn and Gemma. Identical to the eye apart from the colour of their hair, their personalities could not be more different. The story starts with their annual birthday meal... but what should be a celebration quickly turns into a disaster when a disagreement becomes heated and ends with two of the sisters being rushed to hospital. But what started the argument?

The bulk of the story follows the three sisters through their childhood into adulthood, and gives us a clear insight into the events that have led up to the argument. Despite the clear differences between the sisters, their lives remained intertwined no matter how far they try to move from each other. The story is then interspersed with brief snapshots of the girls as they are seen by other people.

The characters are all very well written. Each sister is likeable, though like all people they have characteristics that make you want to scream. At the hands of some authors this is a recipe for disaster, but Moriarty pulls the realism off with ease. You find yourself enjoying the fact that these characters are like your friends.

The plot of the book is well thought out and the writing makes it a thoroughly enjoyable read. Anyone looking for a fast paced, action packed steamfest will probably not like this book. It is what my mother would be probably describe as 'a nice book' - which sums it up pretty well. It relies on having a good plot and being well written rather than being sensationalist, which to me is a refreshing change. Definitely one to give a go. [Jenni Nock]

Three Wishes - Liane Moriarty (Â£7.01)

Posted by gcartwright on November 4, 2005 in American Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 3, 2005 5:27 PM

Restoring Grace

Grace_1 This novel from Katie Fforde moves her a step closer to being crowned one of the queens of British chick lit. She is one of those reassuring authors - pick up one of her books and you know you'll get a thoroughly enjoyable escape from reality. But isn't that just a nice way of saying that she's predictable? Thankfully not...

Ellie is starting to feel a little down on her luck. The combination of an unplanned pregnancy and a boyfriend who seems to care little about looking after himself let alone a baby means she needs to take stock of her life, and soon. By chance (because what would a good book be without fate's intervening hand) she meets Grace, who is equally down on her luck. Grace is the proud owner of Luckenham House, a crumbling mansion without heating or mod cons... thank goodness there's running water. Whilst the two women are very different; in background, life experience and attitudes to life and coping, they quickly realise that they can help each other to make the best of a bad job.

The supporting characters add to make the perfect blend of sub-stories. The addition of Flynn Cormack - hunk with a heart, and Randolph Frazier - artiste extraordinaire, as love interests for the two women add the romance element perfectly. Demi, Grace's ex-step-daughter (I promise it makes sense) adds comedy, and the entirity of Grace's family add the moments where you want to scream out loud and ask if people can really be like that.

So what makes the book great? It ticks all the boxes - the plot is entertaining, supported by a great selection of subplots, the characters are well written and believable (even the ones you don't want to believe), and for the time you read it you really do escape your own reality. Yet again Katie Fforde produces a great read. [Jenni Nock]

Restoring Grace - Katie Fforde (Â£5.59)

Posted by gcartwright on November 3, 2005 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

November 2, 2005 4:26 PM

Sun At Midnight

Sun Alice is a geologist living in Oxford. Her mother was an eminent bioligist, world famous for her groundbreaking work in the Antartic, and Alice feels she's had to fight to be recognised for her own work all of her life. So when she is invited to join a research programme for 6 months she feels a little reluctant - after spending the last 30-odd years trying to escape from her mother's shadow does she really want to follow so closely in her footsteps?

Fate, as ever, intervenes and the idea of joining the exploration becomes a reality. This is where the story begins to really pick up. We are introduced to the rest of the team - mainly men, Alice is only the second woman at the Kandahar Station. They have to learn to live together and work together, coping with the challenges thrown at them by the unpredictable, hostile environment they are in. The real intrigue comes from the character of James Rooker - a man whose past is determined to catch up on him. From the offset he seems like an enigma... a very attractive enigma. Add in Dr Richard Shoesmith, the English team leader, and a love triangle is formed.

This in itself would probably have made a great book, but then author Rosie Thomas adds in a couple more twists just to ensure you can't actually bear to put the book down. You know in your own mind how you want everything to resolve - you have to keep reading to find out how it really resolves.

Whilst it is a great book, and a thoroughly enjoyable read, it is not without a couple of minor flaws. The team come from seven different nations, and unfortunately at times the characterisations can feel a little stereotypical, though the writing is good and the individuals all jump off the page. The blurb on the back of the page suggests a slightly different timeline of events to the actual book, so I ended up reading a different book to the one I was expecting, but the book is so good I really didn't mind.

One of the mjor strengths of the book is in the description of the Antarctic. Thomas desribes it in such a way that you feel like you're there admist the snow, and ice, and penguins. She spent time in the Antarctic researching, and it really has paid off.

I would recommend this book to anyone. The first few chapters can feel a little slow, but persevere and be prepared to be transported to the magic of the Antarctic. [Jenni Nock]

Sun At Midnight - Rosie Thomas (Â£5.59)

If you liked this, you might like Sundowners by Lesley Lokko.

Posted by gcartwright on November 2, 2005 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 31, 2005 11:52 AM

The Perfect 10

Perfect10 The main problem with Louise Kean's latest offering is the way it's described on the back cover. You will be let down if you buy this book expecting the fluffy romance thatâ€™s implied in the blurb. It does have a sort-of love story woven through, but the main emphasis is on something entirely different, and that is the lead character's weight loss and the subsequent changes in her life. In many ways, this book succeeds where Jane Green's 'Jemima J' failed - in tackling dramatic weight loss without being condescending - but if you have no experience of dieting, weight loss or obesity, you might find this one a struggle...

When we meet Sunny Weston, she's almost at her target weight after spending her whole life being fat. She's now finally realising that being slim is not going to solve all her problems. The Perfect 10 is a very interesting look at the way a woman feels after losing a lot of weight, and how her relationships and emotions change as a result. This is not a â€˜sunshine and rosesâ€™ look at how life will all be OK if you're thin. On the contrary, much of it is taken up with explaining how becoming 'beautiful' just brings Sunny a whole new set of problems. The book is very insightful and seemingly written from experience, and I would recommend anyone who struggles with their weight should give it a go. Beware though, it might make for quite an uncomfortable read because it cuts quite close to the bone.

The narrative side of the story takes some getting into. The beginning is a bit muddled and I was almost halfway through the book before I finally 'got' it. I'm now glad I persevered, but as I say, don't expect a nice, simple romance. The love / hate relationship between Sunny and the male protagonist, Cagney, is almost secondary to the character study of the post-diet Sunny. The author doesnâ€™t even pretend to put twists into the romance â€“ itâ€™s clear from the beginning whatâ€™s going to happen. The trouble is I didnâ€™t like Cagney very much. His history seemed a little unbelievable, and I found myself thinking Sunny deserved much better. Other, secondary characters were better; Christian the gay video shop owner, Howard and Iuan, Cagneyâ€™s staff, and Sunny's unbelievably bitchy and unsupportive best friends. Anyone who's lost weight will know of friends like that!

Persevere with this book, and you will be rewarded. There are some very insightful moments, thereâ€™s no tacky moral ending, nor is there a â€˜happily ever afterâ€™ rammed down our throats. Yes, it all ties up nicely by the final page, but lots of things are left for you to ponder. This is a real love / hate book in every sense of the word, but I recommend giving it a go if youâ€™ve ever felt like all your troubles would be over if you were thin.

The Perfect 10 - Louise Kean (Â£3.99)

Posted by gcartwright on October 31, 2005 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 21, 2005 3:16 PM

Drop City

Dropcity When you look at the front cover of this book, with its bold pink lettering (matches the spine of the book you know - not one you're going to lose easily) and its picture of two hippies in the grass, you could instantly expect a tale of flower power, free loving and and things hippy. And for the first few chapters you'd be right. But as the bulldozers threaten the closure of the commune, the story takes a turn and starts to become interesting...

Drop City is a commune in California where anyone and everyone is welcome. Men, women, couples, families - no one is turned away. Though this policy seems to be the beginning of the end for the commune. When a few less pleasant incidents occur and the authorities start to take more of an interest in the goings on within the boundaries of Drop City, the founder, Norm, decides to relocate to Boynton, Alaska.

Once the community of Boynton has been introduced to the reader, the bulk of the story centres on the relocation of Drop City, and the integration of the two communities. In my opinion this was when the book really came into its own. The early section was a nice portrayal of the commune life, and pleasantly wasn't a pure exercise in propaganda for a time now passed. However, the later part of the book seemed to have a better flow, and really keeps you reading - you'll promise yourself that you'll go and do the washing up at the end of the chapter you're reading, and find yourself still sat there three chapters later.

The characters are well written, if not always likeable and the dialogue rings true. Some of the descriptions of places and event jump off the page at you. This book has a bit too much going on to be a good beach or train read, it's definitely not chick lit but is definitely worth making the time for, especially if you enjoyed books by authors like Alex Garland and Tom Wolfe. [Jenni Nock]

Drop City - T.C Boyle (from Â£1.05 new or 85p used)

Posted by gcartwright on October 21, 2005 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 20, 2005 8:59 PM

How To Be Famous

Famous There are loads of movie industry novels out there and it doesn't take you long to realise that, where most of them are concerned, the author hasn't even been to LA let alone actually experienced life as a Hollywood hot-shot. So Alison Bond already has a head start. Though she's a Brit, she worked in the film industry for nine years before writing this book, a no holds barred look at the cut-throat world of film, fame and being fabulous...

In the novel, we follow three women looking to make it in La-la land. Lynsey Dixon works for a London talent agency, but is whisked off to Hollywood after proving her worth in a momentary crisis. Once there, she realises the true meaning of the phrase 'working your way up from the bottom', in a world where assistants have assistants, phones ring off the hook and nobody gets to work later than 6am if they want to keep their job.

Next we have Melanie Chapman, the troubled British starlet hoping to make it big in the US (with a little help from Lynsey, of course). She's in love with a married man - and that's just the beginning of her problems! Finally, there's Serena Simon, a very young girl with very big dreams who meets Lynsey on the way to LA and later takes advantage of her contacts in the industry in a big way.

With three stories to follow, the book has a wonderful fast pace, and is an enjoyable, light read with a few big shocks and lots of mouth-wide-open moments when you think 'surely this doesn't really happen?' Unfortunately, laying the groundwork for three such interesting and detailed stories does have its downfalls, and even after 519 pages, the ending feels a little rushed. The characters have their flaws but they're all essentially quite likeable, and this is the kind of book that almost warrants a 'what happened next?' sequel.

In contrast to the main protaganists, the supporting cast will probably drive you mad. From Lynsey's boss Max to Melanie's co-star Fabien (the token Hollywood bad boy), they have a slight tendency towards the stereotypical, but it's pretty safe to say people like this do exist in LA. Overall, if you're willing to accept the cookie-cutter minor characters and forgive the slightly unbelievable ending, this is a good way to while away a train ride or a rainy afternoon, and much better than most movie-based books.

Get How To Be Famous by Alison Bond for just Â£1 when you join Mango bookclub.
Or buy it new for Â£5.59 or used from 1p at Amazon.

Did you know?
One of Alison Bond's favourite books is 'The Secret History' by Donna Tartt.

If you liked this, you might like The Movie by Louise Bagshawe or Sundowners by Lesley Lokko.

Posted by gcartwright on October 20, 2005 in British Authors, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (1)

October 18, 2005 11:17 AM

Welcome To Temptation

Tempt Jennifer 'Jenny' Crusie has won awards for her romantic novels, but taking a leaf out of Janet Evanovich's book, 'Welcome To Temptation', alongside her other more recent offerings, is less of a romance and more of a murder mystery, mixing the popular chick-lit genre with something a little more sinister and dark, and throwing in some sex and seduction for good measure....

In the novel, we're intruduced to the Dempsey family for the first time. Sisters Sophie and Amy visit Temptation, Ohio in order to make a film. As you'd expect, they end up getting involved in town politics, romance, mystery and controversy through a series of unusual events.

The sisters are the kind of characters who're just the wrong side of believable, which is often what we want from escapist fiction. They act like sluts, but it doesn't stop you from cheering on their budding romances and hoping they all live happily ever after. The supporting characters, from sharp-witted town mayor Phin to insufferable starlet Clea, smart-ass kid Dillie and my personal favourite, the law-breaking big brother Davy, are well-crafted and interesting, and they allow the story to bound on with great pace, providing the perfect compliment to the two sisters, Sophie in particular (around whom the story revolves).

'Welcome To Temptation' is a very clever cross-genre book. It has all the elements of good female fiction, from the loveable characters, the gorgeous love interests and the cute kids to the steamy scenes and witty banter. But added into the mix is the murder mystery element (which doesn't really become the major plot until we're 2/3 of the way through) and a very clever observation of smalltown life; the idea that no matter how quiet you are people always have a way of knowing your business. Bringing together all these things makes this book interesting and more readable than yet another IT-boy-meets-PR-girl story set in a creative, urban environment!

Now for the bad points. As with many murder stories that aren't true murder mysteries, the plot is fairly predictable, and it didn't take a genius to work out what was going to happen. However the twists that were added in to throw the reader off the track did succeed to a point, and though it wasn't a completely shocking ending, there were bits I didn't pick up on. As for whether they all live happily ever after, I'll leave you to use your imagination. However, enough doors are left open to allow the spin-off story 'Faking It', and more Davy Dempsey. And that's never a bad thing, trust me!

If you liked this, you might enjoy One For The Money!

Posted by gcartwright on October 18, 2005 in American Authors, Crime / Mystery, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 14, 2005 4:47 PM

Under My Spell

Spell For true fantasy, escapist chick lit you could do a whole lot worse than Deborah Wright's modern magical fairy tale. Cara, a 25 year old witch, is desperate to escape the clutches of her batty mother and applies for a live-in nannying position with the Wilkins family. Sheâ€™s delighted to get the position, and even more sure that this is the right move for her when she meets her gorgeous next door neighbour Sean. Thereâ€™s just one thing that could go wrongâ€¦

Cara must remember all day, ever day, to act normal. If anyone finds out about her secret double life sheâ€™ll lose it all. The combination of normal world disasters and conspiracies of the magical world mean pretending to be normal is nearly a full time job in itself, and that's what makes this book so successful.

At a fundamental level this could be any middle of the road story of girl-meets-boy and (after a few false starts) true love prevails. However, when you add the other standard chick lit theme of girl-works-as-nanny-for-highly-dysfunctional-family, and the theme of girl trying to escape her domineering, highly eccentric mother, you could easily be looking at a disastrous mishmash of plots and end up with a highly confused, not to mention contrived book. But perhaps witchcraft has had more than one role to play in the product of this novel! Deborah Wright must have waved a magic wand over her manuscript and watched with delight as the plot and subplots weave together with the utmost of ease and then become enriched by the addition of witchcraft. The result is a highly enjoyable and entertaining book that you canâ€™t bear to put down.

If you want a well written book, with plenty of laughs, and a cast that jump off the pages to you then this is definitely the book for you.

Buy 'Under My Spell' by Deborah Wright for Â£4.79 (or used from 1p).

If you enjoyed this, you might enjoy The Little Lady Agency!

Posted by gcartwright on October 14, 2005 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 12, 2005 12:47 PM

Adored

Adored The bonkbuster is back with Tilly Bagshawe's debut novel. Adored is a glamorous take on the chick lit style. Hollywood, super-starlets, supermodels, super-everythings are in abundance with a book that take us from Paris to New York, Las Vegas and LA.

In seventies Hollywood, legendary actor Duke McMahon is a tyrant; hated, loathed and loved in equal measures. We first meet him when he is bringing his mistress, Caroline, to live with his family, which include his cowed wife Minnie and two children who hate him. Quite why they are such a wet bunch of people is a bit of a mystery and itâ€™s hard to feel sympathetic for them when they donâ€™t put their foot down to Dukeâ€™s antics!

Into this seething snake pit is born our heroine Siena McMahon, Dukeâ€™s grand-daughter and seemingly the only person who actually likes him. Packed off to a boarding school in England to protect her from the fallout after Duke's death, we find Siena, in the present day, to be quite a feisty little madam. Determined, beautiful (of course) and abandoned, sheâ€™s on her way back to Hollywood to make her name.

Siena is a fantastic character. There arenâ€™t any of the usual crises of confidence that we normally see in chick-lit. Instead Siena sees what she wants and goes all out to get it, learning love and a little humility on the way. It can, however, be hard to find Siena endearing especially with the way she treats the other characters, but ultimately, she is quite loveable. Despite some improbabilities in the plot (a 5 foot 4 inch supermodel, really?) Adored is a good read. Woven into Sienas rise and fall are a number of subplots and characters, ranging from her delightful uncle Hunter to evil mogul Randall and the loveable Max.

Adored may not be the most intelligent of reads but it does what it says on the tin. It's got plenty of plot twists, a sublime cast of characters and is the kind of juicy, escapist read that you will get lost in. This is the kind of book to read if you want pure, escapist fiction that bears no resemblance to real life whatsoever! [Camilla Chafer]

Did you know?
Tilly Bagshawe is the younger sister of chick lit luminary Louise Bagshawe?

Buy Adored by Tilly Bagshawe for Â£5.59

Posted by gcartwright on October 12, 2005 in Bonkbusters, Debut Novels, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (15)

October 11, 2005 12:44 PM

Life isn't all ha ha hee hee

Haha The first thing that struck me when I picked up Meera Syalâ€™s second fiction effort was the complete lack of information about the book. The back cover and first few pages are filled with quotes from other critics. All you can tell is that, unsurprisingly, everyone whose quote has been chosen loved the book. I have to admit this just made me more curious...

This is the story of three friends; Chila, Tania and Sunita, living in Leyton. Friends since their schooldays, this book chronicles the time when they truly grow up â€“ marriage, childbirth, and all the twists and turns that life throws at them.

The first couple of chapters did not, Iâ€™m afraid, grab me. Thankfully though I persevered and found myself reading a thoughtful, touching and at times funny book. Readers expecting a tale that could have come straight from the scripting of â€˜Goodness Gracious Meâ€™ and â€˜The Kumars at No. 42â€™ etc will be disappointed. This is a more subtle humour, reflecting the way that sometimes ordinary events in life amuse us. I think its also important to remember that whilst Syal accurately portrays the life of these three British Asian 30-something women, she is not trying to say that this is how all women who could possibly fit into that category behave. At the end of the day when we pick up a book set in the area in which we live, do we always expect to see ourselves in the pages? There is something for most readers though. Whilst Iâ€™m a 20-something white British female, I could identify with a lot of the feelings and experiences that the characters in the book went through.

I would definitely recommend this book, but if you have a short attention span, or find it difficult to persevere with books that start slowly then you might find this a little hard going. [Jenni Nock]

Life isn't all ha ha hee hee - Meera Syal

Posted by gcartwright on October 11, 2005 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

October 6, 2005 2:40 PM

Getting Personal

Chris Manby explores the world of thirty-something London dating in this great easy read. It's an overused topic, but she manages to add a good twist to the tale and make the whole issue fresh again. Single friends Ruby, Lou and Martin are fed up of failed relationships and decide to 'get personal' - by placing personal ads for each other...

Despite being quite long, the pages of this one fly by. This is down to some great characters. You follow the lives of three very different friends with very different ideas on dating, and no doubt you'll find something to love in all three of the main protaganists. Martin may be hopelessly attracted to pretty young things with no brains to speak of, but deep down he's a real romantic. Ruby constantly falls for men from the Daniel Cleaver school of fictional love interests - fast-talking city boys who like fast cars and fast women - and you'll find yourself screaming 'he's no good for you' at her throughout, even though you know you'd fancy them too. And Lou just can't seem to find that one missing element that makes a perfect relationship. Why can't she settle, even with a man who's 'perfect' in all her friends' eyes?

The plot doesn't stray too far from familiar chick-lit territory, and certain elements are a little unbelievable (what are the chances of Lou's very first date being the 'perfect' man?) but a cast of fabulous co-stars and some great one-liners and set pieces make up for that.

The ending will make or break this one for you, however. One strand of the story is obvious throughout, and lulls you into a false sense of security about how the book will finish. If you're anything like me, you'll find yourself relying so heavily on one thing happening that you'll likely never guess the actual twist. It's very clever, if a little bit disappointing in the way it's carried off (I was so surprised I had to re-read a few paragraphs to clarify what was going on).

This one is definitely worth adding to your collection if you're a fan of the Bridget Jones-esque genre, and if you're bored of predictable love stories, see how you get on with this ending!

Posted by gcartwright on October 6, 2005 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

October 3, 2005 12:28 PM

Sundowners

If you like your women's fiction with a bit more of an edge, Sundowners may just be the book for you. On the surface, it's your typical epic saga of friendship, love and betrayal, spanning two decades and travelling the world. But as you get into the story, you're given a history lesson at the same time. It's the tale of four friends and one doomed love story, set to a backdrop of political turmoil in South Africa.

To give a brief outline of the plot, Lesley Lokko's debut novel follows the lives of four priviledged girls who meet at boarding school in England and spend the next twenty years trying to find their way in the world. Everyone has a character they can relate to; there's the spoilt brat who grew up sheltered and is learning to adjust, the tart with a heart, the plain Jane who's good at school, and the undecided girl with no idea about her future. Together they share a unique Sex & The City style friendship that keeps the book going through almost 500 pages and takes the reader to London, New York, Malaysia, Paris and the Caribbean to name but a few.

What sets this book apart from other saga-type stories is the historical references and political message. The book has a very strong political theme throughout, as we learn about South Africa in the 80s and early 90s. Without giving away too much, weaved into the politics is a Romeo & Juliet style love story that forms the core of the novel. While Lokko is keen to point out that some of the history has been altered slightly to fit the narrative of the story, you do feel like you may be learning something as well as enjoying a good read. This will either encourage you to read on or put you off depending on exactly how escapist you like your fiction to be!

The characters are difficult to fault, though concentrating on Rianne - the least likeable of the four - as the main protagonist is a very brave move. Though her story was the most compelling I found myself eager to find out more about the other girls, and felt that their stories fizzled out a little too quickly. This was a shame, but necessary to keep the plot moving along and stop the book from becoming too much of a tome!

The book is long, and the pace does drop a few times (the only reason this doesn't get a 5/5 rating) but not enough for it to drag too much. So long as you're ready for the history lesson and not expecting chick-lit-lite, you'll have trouble putting this one down once you get into it. All in all, it's a great, epic tale that you'll devour in no time.

Sundowners - Lesley Lokko

Posted by gcartwright on October 3, 2005 in Debut Novels, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (6)

September 27, 2005 11:12 AM

The Marrying Game

'The Marrying Game' is one of my favourite reads of this summer. Kate Saunders weaves a cast of highly entertaining characters through an occasionally believable plot in such a way that you really canâ€™t bear to put it down. Meet the Hasty sisters, Rufa â€“ eldest, sensible and practical, Nancy â€“ voluptuous femme fatale with a heart, Lydia â€“ hopeless romantic, convinced her ex-husband still loves her, Selena â€“ typical rebellious teen, and their eccentric mother Rose...

The girls' father, named only as â€˜The Manâ€™, has died and they are faced with massive debts and a near derelict family mansion that frankly would give even the Extreme Makeover team nightmares. After much soul searching, the solution is found; Rufa and Nancy will move to London and play â€˜The Marrying Gameâ€™. The rules are simple â€“ find the richest man and marry him. Enter a supporting cast of equally quirky characters, and a modern fairytale is born.

This book is thoroughly enjoyable. On first impressions it could appear a little daunting, at a lengthy 544 pages (paperback version), but as soon as you begin reading you forget this and find yourself transported into pure escapist fantasy. The storyline frequently teeters on the boundary of what is believable, but that only adds to its appeal. If you like your chick lit to be entirely realistic and full of Jilly Cooper-esque raunch then this isnâ€™t going to be for you. However, for an entertaining read with laugh out loud moments add this one to the top of your list. [Jenni Nock]

The Marrying Game - Kate Saunders

Posted by gcartwright on September 27, 2005 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

September 22, 2005 3:28 PM

Boy Meets Girl

Boymeetsigrl Ten pages into this book and I was ready to give up. But I persevered and found myself getting into it despite myself. The most important thing to realise before starting this is that it's not a novel. That is to say there are no chapters and no dialogue. Instead, the entire book is made up of letters, emails, transcripts of instant message conversations, minutes from meetings, diary entries and just about anything else that can be put down on paper.

If you're not expecting this clever style of construction, it can take a while to get used to, but once you do it soon becomes apparent how much skill it must take to work a plot into such a complex array of formats.

To cut a long story, the magical Ida Lopez is responsible for the dessert trolley at the New York Journal. Unfortunately, she doesn't deem everyone worthy of her baking, and when heartless lawyer Stu Hertzog is refused a slice of pie, it's up to Kate MacKenzie to dismiss everyone's favourite member of staff. But Mrs Lopez won't go down without a fight. The staff of the paper need their baked goods, and Ida's intent on setting Kate up with Mitch, who just happens to be Stu's younger brother.

It doesn't sound like it would make a great book, but the further you get, the more you realise you're getting into the story. Despite no descriptions, you feel like you know the characters, and after a while you almost forget you're not reading a traditional novel. If you get tired of books made up of letters and journal entries, obviously you're best to give it a miss. It's not the kind of book you're going to regret not reading, but if it intrigues you at all, I'd definitely give it a go.

Boy Meets Girl - Meg Cabot

Posted by gcartwright on September 22, 2005 in American Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 21, 2005 5:22 PM

Vince and Joy

Vincejoy The one problem with reading so many books of the same genre is that you begin to predict every plot twist before it happens. That's what happened to me while reading Lisa Jewell's Vince & Joy. I was constantly reading on just to confirm what I suspected, which meant I finished the book in record time. That said, despite a slightly rushed ending (as my friend said, "I wanted six more chapters") I thoroughly enjoyed the book.

'Vince & Joy' is the story of two first loves whose lives continually cross. That said, you'll be surprised how little of the book is taken up with Vince and Joy together. Instead you find the two constantly missing their chances, taking up with other people and misconstruing situations in typical fictional style.

One of Jewell's strong points is that she manages to write good male roles as well as female ones. You'll adore Vince and his stepfather Chris, but it's more difficult to find sympathy for the women. Joy has serious confidence problems and intimacy issues that will drive you mad, but she's far more interesting than most fictional heroines.

Jewell doesn't mince her words and her characters are honest, flawed and real, sometimes excrutiatingly so. The downside of this is that it's sometimes difficult to feel any kind of emotion for characters who have bought everything on themselves. If you like escapist, feel-good fiction you might find this a struggle, but if you're fed up of sunshine and roses chick lit, Jewell's honest view on thirtysomething life will be a refreshing change. It still has the requisite happy ending, but there's not an ounce of mush to be found.

Vince and Joy - Lisa Jewell

Posted by gcartwright on September 21, 2005 in British Authors, Modern Fiction, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (2)

September 19, 2005 5:10 PM

The Ivy Chronicles

Ivy Karen Quinn's comedy tale of a New York hard-hitter turned school admissions advisor was recently crowned 'Summer Read' on Richard & Judy's bookclub slot, thus making it one of the most popular holiday reads this year. Which is exactly where I read it. And to begin with, I was unimpressed.

The book is slow to start, but give it a few pages and Quinn finally sets the pace, kills off some characters in the most ridiculous way possible, and starts introducing us to the pushy parents and spoiled little brats whom our heroine is trying to help get into the top private schools in New York. It won't be long before you're rooting for the underdog and cursing the 'villains'.

The story plods on with plenty of set pieces - some of which work better than others (Encountering a ghost via a TV psychic is a low point, but a guest appearance by George Clooney makes up for that). The romantic subplot is about as predictable as the end of 'Titanic' (it sinks) and it doesn't help that at least one of the love interests is about as appealing as a piece of toast, but this is not a book you read for the romance. The best bits involve the children (particularly Ivy's daughter Skyler) and their psychotic parents.

Throughout the book, despite the fact that she states clearly it's all fiction, you get an inkling that some of these events actually happened during the author's own time as an admissions advisor. Avoid this one if you hate 'upper-class New York' novels, but if you enjoy a bit of excapism, it's worth adding to your library!

The Ivy Chronicles - Karen Quinn

Posted by gcartwright on September 19, 2005 in American Authors, Prize Winners, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (11)

September 14, 2005 4:40 PM

Where Have All The Boys Gone

Colgan1 Jenny Colgan has gone for a tried-and-tested (dare I say it) chick lit formula for her sixth novel. There have been a lot of 'city girl moves to the country' books over the last couple of years, and this is another of the same vein. London PR girl Katie is tired of the lack of good men in the City, so when she moves to the Highlands of Scotland to save a forest and ends up in a town where the men outnumber the women by 16 to 1, it's got to be good.

With her best mate in tow she encounters sexy journalists, moody bosses and even Ewan McGregor as she organises a posh benefit, fights the town's teenagers and shares a train with a piglet. Though it's not exactly covering new ground plot-wise, it's a funny, easy beach read and Colgan's witty, fast-paced writing style will have you laughing despite yourself.

Those who enjoyed Colgan's earlier novels ('Amanda's Wedding', 'Talking To Addison' & 'Looking For Andrew McCarthy') will enjoy the simplicity of the plot and the fast-paced prose. Brain surgery it is not, but the last time Colgan tried to go for something a little more original (with 'Working Wonders') it wasn't very well received. This is one for the fans, and as one I'm glad to see Colgan back to doing what she does best. Simple, fluffy and fun. There's nothing wrong with that!

Where Have All The Boys Gone - Jenny Colgan

Posted by gcartwright on September 14, 2005 in British Authors, Girly Stuff, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)

August 25, 2005 5:43 PM

The Other Side of The Story

Keyes1 Marian Keyes latest book tells a tale via three narrators with very different perspectives. Gemma and Lily are best friends turned worst enemies, both intent on writing a best-seller. Jojo is the agent who's looking for her next money-spinning novelist in order to get that promotion...and you can guess the rest. If you've ever thought of writing a novel, you'll enjoy this as much for the tales from the industry (snarky reviews, inside workings of agencies and publishing houses, the curse of 'chick lit') as you will for the plot itself. Despite the new style of narration, it sticks fairly firmly in Keyes usual territory - troubled relationships, high-strung heroines and the token Irish Mammy - so if you're a fan you won't be disappointed. It's fairly bulky, Amazon's latest paperback version is 496 pages long but ours was 650, but despite that the pages fly by with a lot of laugh-out-loud moments. The ending is predictably neat, tidy and just a little bit mushy, but what else would you expect?

The Other Side Of The Story - Marian Keyes

Posted by Aigua Media on August 25, 2005 in Irish Authors, Rating: 4/5 | Permalink | Comments (0)