tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1340484807027111002024-03-14T18:32:48.467+00:00BookaholicWendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.comBlogger325125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-9702675477748730472023-12-04T00:30:00.005+00:002023-12-04T00:30:00.136+00:00Book Review: Island of Ruin by Marti M. McNair<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcc8ON0ryiFxaEmUtlL49VopUANv_64imULiOEWwcjvL5rvH9T6kBsiARb5lffVF8Y8qvlFpEqSnDLeLtJhLpaEiCDebmO_u73gdgH5ozewcoJIgdOllYHgtTXS5ultD9Z_MyWllNB5Bhee9PQtRuKOMwv4WU38zwQabBabvBh1M0kqh7klh0UdDhj8U/s1500/81U3UllOAJL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1500" data-original-width="938" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTcc8ON0ryiFxaEmUtlL49VopUANv_64imULiOEWwcjvL5rvH9T6kBsiARb5lffVF8Y8qvlFpEqSnDLeLtJhLpaEiCDebmO_u73gdgH5ozewcoJIgdOllYHgtTXS5ultD9Z_MyWllNB5Bhee9PQtRuKOMwv4WU38zwQabBabvBh1M0kqh7klh0UdDhj8U/s320/81U3UllOAJL._SL1500_.jpg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Good Morning Bookaholics. Today I bring you a slightly different review as I am approaching this book with my editorial hat on. Yes, I edited the book and what a pleasure it was to do so. If I tell you, I am not really a dystopian fiction fan, and yet this book held me enthralled from the get go. I will tell you why in a moment but, first, I am sure you want to know what it is about. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>In the wake of an apocalyptic End of Days, a totalitarian regime emerges. New-born belong to the state and are transported to the island of Ruin. Deprived of love and nurturing, children eke out an existence with a grim reality. Amidst the bleakness, Jasmine and Coral stumble upon a mysterious old woman washed ashore. Defying the regime’s grip, they secretly shelter her within the depths of the Black Cave. The girls soon unravel the regime’s web of deception. Jasmine is betrayed, the old woman is found, and a momentous trial begins. Will Jasmine be able to reclaim her stolen life? Be sentenced to death, or spend the remainder of days toiling in the mines?<p></p><p><u>Review</u></p><p>This was a difficult book to edit, not because it was awful, quite the opposite in fact. It was so enthralling I found myself approaching it as a reader rather than an editor. In the end, I allowed myself to read the whole thing and then approach it once again with an editor's eye. In any book one needs the three pillars of character, plot and setting. The author has got each of these spot on, however I believe character may take the edge. She has the ability to go inside the mind of young adults and has portrayed each of them in ways which are different, this despite the fact no one is supposed to be different. Jasmine, the main character is strong and determined to save the world and find a different way of life. I love her. Other characters are equally strongly drawn. They are written so skilfully that at times it is difficult to tell who are the goodies and who are the baddies - in a good way. The plot had me all over the place and my heart racing. Just when I thought I had a handle on it a twist would arrive that had me gasping. </p><p>McNair uses words to good effect to draw the reader in to a different world but one in which they become immersed. This book is the first in a trilogy and I am genuinely looking forward to reading - and editing - the second book in the series. </p><p>This would make a fantastic Christmas present for any lovers of Dystopian Fiction. I can highly recommend it. </p><p>You can buy the book <a href="https://books2read.com/u/4jEqPD">here</a></p><p>You can follow the author on the following platforms</p><p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100093196818963" target="_blank">Facebook </a></p><p><a href="https://twitter.com/martimmcnair" target="_blank">X(Twitter) </a></p><p><a href="https://instagram.com/martimmcnair" target="_blank">Instagram</a></p><p>I would urge you to buy this book my Bookaholic friends, you will not regret it. I will see you soon with another blog, until then, keep reading and keep writing. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyyFnjjNFx9tyCxG5qS3x72Jufgn9lUe2HhPdRAftr9t-zT2hN7spIMNqmwkiy9Ll0f-mjzwEHgRjPVraQXGNZKdwTdN5ivnm_3ku0ssA3Keo0YNqVGjzgwGEsYq5BlQn7SG-5BNE4WV_6XSTqlebTME6Men-1LfAHQmLNZRm_E2t2P0KqU0eB0cj_TU/s4608/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3456" data-original-width="4608" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIyyFnjjNFx9tyCxG5qS3x72Jufgn9lUe2HhPdRAftr9t-zT2hN7spIMNqmwkiy9Ll0f-mjzwEHgRjPVraQXGNZKdwTdN5ivnm_3ku0ssA3Keo0YNqVGjzgwGEsYq5BlQn7SG-5BNE4WV_6XSTqlebTME6Men-1LfAHQmLNZRm_E2t2P0KqU0eB0cj_TU/w400-h300/image1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-55604672478416599272023-10-15T19:35:00.006+01:002023-10-15T19:35:42.011+01:00Book Review: Hunter's Secret by Val Penny<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecgk2pEEC42MtBS1mXRHitDCviLoP_1VhMWlHQKY32DlXSmFlNGitL9ZC3TdHbBVh9zUvDIetmML9jUoNhEntBZe3xjJE5bAVm3icAz6LH8e07RKrcPEVf1tXnqAbnsBbvmhphIEydp3Wp2shtc4J_Bj6TNlzeBZJNFXO_PLyR9IxKqVAhmwaxwyw7KQ/s800/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjecgk2pEEC42MtBS1mXRHitDCviLoP_1VhMWlHQKY32DlXSmFlNGitL9ZC3TdHbBVh9zUvDIetmML9jUoNhEntBZe3xjJE5bAVm3icAz6LH8e07RKrcPEVf1tXnqAbnsBbvmhphIEydp3Wp2shtc4J_Bj6TNlzeBZJNFXO_PLyR9IxKqVAhmwaxwyw7KQ/s320/image1.jpeg" width="205" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><u>Blurb</u><p></p>Detective Inspector Hunter Wilson is called to the scene of a murder. DCs Tim Myerscough and Bear Zewedu found a corpse, but when Hunter arrives it has disappeared, and all is not as it seems.<br /><br />Hunter recalls the disappearance of a dead body thirty years earlier. The Major Incident Team is called in but sees no connection – it is too long ago. Hunter is determined to investigate the past and the present with the benefit of modern DNA testing.<br /><br />Tim has other problems in his life. His father, Sir Peter Myerscough, is released from jail. He, too, remembers the earlier murder. There is no love lost between Hunter and Sir Peter. Will Hunter accept help from his nemesis to catch a killer?<br />Hunter’s own secret is exciting and crucial to his future. Will it change his life? And can he keep Edinburgh safe?<div><br /></div><div><u>Review</u></div><div><br /></div><div>This is the sixth book in Val Penny's series about Hunter Wilson, her Edinburgh based Detective. Often by this stage series can become formulaic but Penny has avoided this with a tense thriller, which brings Hunter's past squarely into the present. The book is well written with a storyline that engrosses and holds the readers attention throughout. From the opening flashback to the final denouement, the story takes us through numerous twists and turns, enough to keep the most hardened crime aficionado happy. As a crime lover myself, I enjoyed it immensely. Edinburgh is brought vividly to life and having been there countless times I say this with authority. I enjoyed getting to know Hunter more deeply, almost seeing inside his psyche. Another excellent thriller from the pen of Val Penny.</div><div><br /></div><div><u>Author Bio</u></div><br />Val Penny has an Llb degree from the University of Edinburgh and her MSc from Napier University. She has had many jobs including hairdresser, waitress, banker, azalea farmer and lecturer but has not yet achieved either of her childhood dreams of being a ballerina or owning a candy store. <br /><br />Until those dreams come true, she has turned her hand to writing poetry, short stories,nonfiction books, and novels. Her novels are published by SpellBound Books Ltd.<br /><br />Val is an American author living in SW Scotland. She has two adult daughters of whom she is justly proud and lives with her husband and their cat.<div><br /></div><div><u>Links</u></div><br /><br />Website - <a href="https://www.valpenny.com/">https://www.valpenny.com</a><br /><br />Amazon Author Page - <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Val-Penny/e/B07C4725TK">https://www.amazon.co.uk/Val-Penny/e/B07C4725TK</a><br /><br />Author Facebook Page - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/valerie.penny.739">https://www.facebook.com/valerie.penny.739</a><br /><br />Author Twitter Page @valeriepenny<br /><br />Author Instagram Page <a href="https://www.instagram.com/valerieepenny/">https://www.instagram.com/valerieepenny/</a><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-9151453353302675282023-09-04T01:40:00.002+01:002023-09-04T01:40:44.238+01:00Book Review by Mason Bushell<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWSX9W4QDrFWtrqQpUsdghoJXa_IJfLbh9YTB4528wDX3zlEZJFT_9JHFqGN0iYqziTfsOCGyeV2Oc9QAmMYRfrCnFghEDCbJAIsLHy-Q_2Jn2FYJL07anGr112m2MDB0qYa9OKicx611wJr5KgQgO-QCvmWO44C_b-YYf2da0IVtLGsj3CntU-BB3SI/s2550/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2550" data-original-width="1650" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheWSX9W4QDrFWtrqQpUsdghoJXa_IJfLbh9YTB4528wDX3zlEZJFT_9JHFqGN0iYqziTfsOCGyeV2Oc9QAmMYRfrCnFghEDCbJAIsLHy-Q_2Jn2FYJL07anGr112m2MDB0qYa9OKicx611wJr5KgQgO-QCvmWO44C_b-YYf2da0IVtLGsj3CntU-BB3SI/s320/image1.jpeg" width="207" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Whilst I am usually a crime thriller sort of girl, I am trying to push myself out of my comfort zone and I do like a short story. So, today's review, A Gentle Nudge by Mason Bushell, is a slim volume of short stories. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><br />Stories to soothe your soul.<br /><br />In a world drowning in negativity and dark events, we all need a little light and hope. With a little adventure, romance and even music, these short stories will give your hopes and dreams a nudge as they draw a smile.<br /><br />A Gentle Nudge by Mason Bushell wraps you in calm.<div><br /></div><div><u>Review</u></div><div><br /></div><div>The subtitle of the book is stories of hopes, dreams and kindness to draw a smile. The book delivers what it promises and does it well. Reading it is like being wrapped in a warm blanket of comfort, a surfer antidote to the endless bad news we consume on the news each day. The stories are short and each can be read in just a few minutes. The prefect book to pick up and put down; definitely one for the commute. Each story is unique and draws the reader in, telling a tale which tugs at the emotional heartstrings. This is not a long book but it does not need to be. The stories should be savoured, thought about, and remembered long after they have been read. As well as entertaining they also help us to think about our own lives. This is definitely a book I would recommend.</div><div><br /></div><div>If you would like to buy the book you can do so via the links below</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="http://www.thebridgetowncafebooksshop.co.uk/2023/05/a-gentle-nudge-by-mason-bushell.html?fbclid=IwAR0MHjQKKi3DZlpT3AzR05kcyJzJst0yvfohwBxJdLtSbnLcAaDV9dF3w2g" target="_blank">Bridgetown Cafe</a> </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0C2ZLK2BP" target="_blank">Amazon</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.hive.co.uk/Product/Mason-Bushell/A-Gentle-Nudge/28953685" target="_blank">Hive</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-gentle-nudge-mason-bushell/1143486007?ean=9781914199424" target="_blank">Barnes and Noble</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.booktopia.com.au/a-gentle-nudge-mason-bushell/book/9781914199424.html" target="_blank">Booktopia</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>You can find out more about Mason via</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://masonsmenagerie.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Website</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MBWorkhouse" target="_blank">Facebook</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://twitter.com/MBWorkhouse" target="_blank">X (Twitter)</a> </div><div><br /></div><div>That's it for another day, Bookaholics. I will be back soon with another review. Until then, keep reading and keep writing. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-19572173036218465422023-07-10T16:21:00.004+01:002023-07-10T16:21:52.043+01:00Book Review: Hunters Blood by Val Penny <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaEKSCQlbKOvaQ25fqzpNchMHacCdMmgLbfEvvAn1Cbx2Kq71HD0MR5IngNJi_ESqZLfZRlhgDSA0rXv9LAPqIYDem8y6rUbXPS4FiNqf7oANxIgRYN2xu4fVcpF-DHYKkX4CBD_NHSUDCkZh2n115hR87BaSlPowcG6jrutpPoLdIHstpOOWKNMXGAg/s800/image2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="512" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcaEKSCQlbKOvaQ25fqzpNchMHacCdMmgLbfEvvAn1Cbx2Kq71HD0MR5IngNJi_ESqZLfZRlhgDSA0rXv9LAPqIYDem8y6rUbXPS4FiNqf7oANxIgRYN2xu4fVcpF-DHYKkX4CBD_NHSUDCkZh2n115hR87BaSlPowcG6jrutpPoLdIHstpOOWKNMXGAg/s320/image2.jpeg" width="205" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Good afternoon, Bookaholics. I'm delighted to be back with a review of another book for you and it's a real cracker. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Description</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span class="a-text-bold" face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px; font-weight: 700;">Mutilation and murder outrage…It’s about to get very personal for DI Hunter Wilson</span><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;">.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />When DI Hunter Wilson learns three elderly women have died in mysterious circumstances he is horrified to realise that he is the only person who has met each of them.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />As he scrutinises the evidence he concedes that he must accept help from the Major Investigation Team to solve the triple murder.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />When a breakthrough comes from unlikely source , Hunter finds himself in a race against the clock.<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />What exactly did the witness hear?<br style="box-sizing: border-box;" /><br style="box-sizing: border-box;" />Do the victims really deserve justice? or were they targeted for their own past crimes.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><u>Review</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;">I love Penny's Hunter series and I was looking forward to reading this one, newly released under a new publisher. Both the author and the publisher have played a blinder. The book is extremely well written, the plot detailed, and the pace so fast you are dragged along at speed. I felt like I was being hurtled around twists and turns, so much so I was dizzy. It was a thrilling ride. I love the character of Hunter and we get to know so much more about him in this book. The author is a skilled writer and this is evident from the first word to the last. The characters are realistic and, having been to Edinburgh numerous times, I can say without a shadow of a doubt, the setting is equally as realistic. The city is used as a background and one sees the darkness that lurks beneath and behind the beautiful city seen by tourists. It forms a dark backdrop to the story. The storyline is well crafted which leads to a story which keeps the reader enthralled and entertained. Kudos to the author for the achievement.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;">If you like well crafted crime fiction which will literally keep you on the edge of your seat and gasping, you should grab this one immediately.</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;">Thank you to the publisher for an ARC of this book. At no point was I asked to write a positive review and my review is based on my reading and enjoyment of the book. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;">There we have it for another week, Bookaholics. Grab the book, grab a coffee, put your feet up and settle down for a great read. See you soon and until then, keep reading and keep writing. </span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=B0C957FXF1&asins=B0C957FXF1&linkId=dfda79f231aaeae70676a5cd2d4611ed&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzu1v2HgVoOiS2dcc7R5laj-Yy9wFB2TnmcilzlrtPiN0IKNnd6dEFaMJOV-4TF65bHsXUsbrzywD2a8Z_7-lToDTN0UO6N9D-MMXUcPN-4b3wdGB8VZ3RT9EkkYQoLVGhNbFs2tOCOON9aBrCZ5kbiE5nW3GK_f_wc4Qtr0hF65fGnq4zvwfMF8M4LU/s2245/image1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1587" data-original-width="2245" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlzu1v2HgVoOiS2dcc7R5laj-Yy9wFB2TnmcilzlrtPiN0IKNnd6dEFaMJOV-4TF65bHsXUsbrzywD2a8Z_7-lToDTN0UO6N9D-MMXUcPN-4b3wdGB8VZ3RT9EkkYQoLVGhNbFs2tOCOON9aBrCZ5kbiE5nW3GK_f_wc4Qtr0hF65fGnq4zvwfMF8M4LU/s320/image1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face=""Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif" style="box-sizing: border-box; caret-color: rgb(15, 17, 17); color: #0f1111; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><p></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-9494767028701476652023-05-14T19:47:00.004+01:002023-05-14T19:47:48.907+01:00Book Review: Death in. Shetland Lane by Marsali Taylor<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHY-GY19jr990f5l3xug45WyXsXABUQ60a--HM5pvTmhQ0oF0NYzUopFPNo-hGfSdRPfFUUQWJ933zNjf38f6LG5KTiVV5lfeE_gquVVrxhE2PVRyjSiEnh5opork5qbuzDwVulL9q_MPwz4WSauunDz2rym2UT3HCQw6JpBOmfRnS90tT8yGEMaxm/s500/cid:5B6092D5-0832-42EA-89B1-D032BE6326BF-L0-001.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="326" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHY-GY19jr990f5l3xug45WyXsXABUQ60a--HM5pvTmhQ0oF0NYzUopFPNo-hGfSdRPfFUUQWJ933zNjf38f6LG5KTiVV5lfeE_gquVVrxhE2PVRyjSiEnh5opork5qbuzDwVulL9q_MPwz4WSauunDz2rym2UT3HCQw6JpBOmfRnS90tT8yGEMaxm/s320/cid:5B6092D5-0832-42EA-89B1-D032BE6326BF-L0-001.jpeg" width="209" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div>Hello, Bookaholics, I am absolutely delighted to be part of the book tour for Marsali Taylor's latest book, Death in Shetland Lane. I am a great lover of this series and I was very much looking forward to reading this one? Did it live up to expectations? - read on to find out.<br /><br /><br /><u>Blurb</u><br /><br />Days before the final Shetland fire festival, in broad daylight, a glamorous young singer tumbles down a flight of steps. Though it seems a tragic accident, sailing sleuth Cass Lynch, a witness at the scene, thought it looked like Chloe sleepwalked to her death. <br /><br />But young women don't slumber while laughing and strolling with friends. Could it be that someone's cast a spell from the Book of the Black Arts, recently stolen from a Yell graveyard?<br /><br />A web of tensions between the victim and those who knew her confirm that something more deadly than black magic is at work. But proving what, or who, could be lethal - and until the mystery is solved, innocent people will remain in terrible danger...<p></p><p><u>Review</u></p><p>I can categorically state that this, the latest book, did meet my expectations and then some. Taylor has crafted a story that had me hanging on to every word - I would expect nothing less from this consummate wordsmith. It is well plotted with a storyline that surprises, intrigues and leaves the reader breathless. Yes, I know it's a cliche, but one I use proudly. From the opening historical prologue to the final page the tension is played out well. Cass as a character continues to grow and yet she si the same old Cass; someone who feels like an old friend. The other characters are well drawn and believable bringing their own unique slant to the overall narrative and mystery. Of course, Shetland, sailing and boats are characters in themselves. All of these are portrayed well, allowing a glimpse into life both on the island and on the sea, without overwhelming. One is allowed a glimpse of these in a way which educates those who know little about them but without the rider feeling they are out of their depth. Please excuse the pun. Bring all this together and you are faced with a cracking read which will not disappoint. I can highly recommend it. </p><p><u>Marsali Taylor</u></p><br /><br />Marsali Taylor grew up near Edinburgh, and came to Shetland as a newly-qualified teacher. She is currently a part-time teacher on Shetland’s scenic west side, living with her husband and two Shetland ponies. Marsali is a qualified STGA tourist-guide who is fascinated by history, and has published plays in Shetland’s distinctive dialect, as well as a history of women's suffrage in Shetland. She's also a keen sailor who enjoys exploring in her own 8m yacht, and an active member of her local drama group.<br /><br />HOW TO BUY<br /><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Death-Shetland-Lane-Sailing-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B0BNDHKVRF/">https://www.amazon.co.uk/Death-Shetland-Lane-Sailing-Mysteries-ebook/dp/B0BNDHKVRF/</a><br /><br />SOCIAL MEDIA LINK<br /><br /><div>Author Facebook Page - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MarsaliTaylorAuthor/">https://www.facebook.com/MarsaliTaylorAuthor/</a><br /><br />WEBSITE LINKS<br /><br />Website - <a href="https://www.marsalitaylor.co.uk/">https://www.marsalitaylor.co.uk</a><br /><br />Amazon Author Page - <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Marsali-Taylor/e/B0034PACI8/">https://www.amazon.co.uk/Marsali-Taylor/e/B0034PACI8/</a></div><div><br /></div><div>That's it for another week Bookaholics. I hope you enjoy eh book as much s I did. See you all soon, but until then, keep reading and keep writing. </div><div><p><br /></p></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-88802976252558627672023-03-20T19:29:00.000+00:002023-03-20T19:29:11.898+00:00Book Review: The Dangerous Dance of Emma JJ by Annie Try<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIKDDDMNXdg1Cfunih7dzLZpAaZxauhfR9YUDRg1UEirpPUgDuUU1mbBxnXiUQogz8yP6ZfmcRxMkzE_hZMGDrFH3iuEmoTBaz9-wKXfJtOPpYxJby8u7q0r6_X51qByUW5m5skf76wC9N-jgYQLfb-N0ivppIQSeahQ3-Bs8qVSU54BAwDsmcNr9I/s940/IMG_1046.PNG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="788" data-original-width="940" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIKDDDMNXdg1Cfunih7dzLZpAaZxauhfR9YUDRg1UEirpPUgDuUU1mbBxnXiUQogz8yP6ZfmcRxMkzE_hZMGDrFH3iuEmoTBaz9-wKXfJtOPpYxJby8u7q0r6_X51qByUW5m5skf76wC9N-jgYQLfb-N0ivppIQSeahQ3-Bs8qVSU54BAwDsmcNr9I/s320/IMG_1046.PNG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello, bookaholics, I am back with another fabulous book for you. What a treat lies ahead. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I love Annie Try books, so when the publisher asked me to be part of this blog tour, I jumped at the chance. Emma is a looked after child with a secret at her very core. Of course, all of this brings its own emotional baggage. This could be a depressing book but it is very definitely not. Emma, is a relatable character and even though this book is for young adults I, as an adult, was rooting for her every step of the way. She shows courage and strength of character, supported at every turn by her best friend and boyfriend. The relationships are described well and are believable and the characterisation is spot on. When Emma discovers dance, her life is transformed through her passion for dancing and the reader almost feels her come alive. The book is structured well and leads the reader through the highs and lows of the teenage life. The author has a real grasp of the teenage psyche and this shines through in every carefully chosen word. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I like the way the author has not shied away from the impact of past trauma on a young person. This is handled sensitively and is an important part of the storyline. It takes great skill to do so. It does have some faith aspects but this is woven into the story in a way which does not overwhelm. It is handled sensitively and allows the reader to think about matters of faith. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Although this is a story for Young Adults I would also recommend it to adults. A well thought out, well written book which would have wide appeal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFh1gK2PnXtpqgp2WTVel2J3BM8gcc8mK5eyFqkXVi4lZFywzCd3VZhKz9q4yS0iSDcwFTFe_5s4-OjRR8MFZxPn7CozTiC4k7Iw2jxEI7wIz0j2kvJNn4mV4xfneJyujDSoOGdK19gcHW4IaxOcW1A4bagOGubcU_Lxen-EImwEeqzYwEUcBN2Jsg/s3182/IMG_0118.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3182" data-original-width="2944" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFh1gK2PnXtpqgp2WTVel2J3BM8gcc8mK5eyFqkXVi4lZFywzCd3VZhKz9q4yS0iSDcwFTFe_5s4-OjRR8MFZxPn7CozTiC4k7Iw2jxEI7wIz0j2kvJNn4mV4xfneJyujDSoOGdK19gcHW4IaxOcW1A4bagOGubcU_Lxen-EImwEeqzYwEUcBN2Jsg/s320/IMG_0118.jpeg" width="296" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you would like to find out more about Annie Try and her work you can find her via the links below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><p class="yiv8473231854MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"><span dir="ltr" style="color: blue; font-size: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://annie-try.co.uk/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://annie-try.co.uk</a></span></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="yiv8473231854enhancr-placeholder-medium" data-size="medium" id="yiv8473231854temp-enhancr-placeholder" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"></div><p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"></p><p class="yiv8473231854MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"><span dir="ltr" style="color: blue; font-size: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="http://annie-try.blogspot.com/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">http://annie-try.blogspot.com</a> </span></p><div class="yiv8473231854enhancr-placeholder-medium" data-size="medium" id="yiv8473231854temp-enhancr-placeholder" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"></div><p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"></p><p class="yiv8473231854MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"><span dir="ltr" style="color: blue; font-size: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://twitter.com/Annie_Try/@annie_try" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://twitter.com/Annie_Try/@annie_try</a> </span></p><div class="yiv8473231854enhancr-placeholder-medium" data-size="medium" id="yiv8473231854temp-enhancr-placeholder" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"></div><p style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"></p><p class="yiv8473231854MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"><span dir="ltr" style="color: blue; font-size: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/annietrywriter" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com</a>/annietrywriter</span></p></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thanks for reading my bookaholic friend. I will be back soon with another great read. Until then, keep reading and keep writing. </div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><p class="yiv8473231854MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"><span dir="ltr" style="color: blue; font-size: inherit; text-decoration: underline;"><br /></span></p><p class="yiv8473231854MsoNormal" style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0cm;"><br /></p></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-14409160181066917282023-01-30T18:36:00.003+00:002023-01-30T18:36:59.748+00:00Book Review: Hunter's Force by Val Penny<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQAW60VbfIUmzNdjuxC1ZqjAROLFCB73n31AtyEDN8ltMjFCuVhdkfGtpQbXrE7eg8SoaJDAvWOK00XJyBMtIWECv1c1bDeNF8ry_CU6gGu_w71Qyd907aBjTyj8wtbGFzYuGlQ0ba5lKURCuKQMVyZ8aWUQb315MkXgyY-eMRPfLA4wrfjDv7Mij/s680/Hunter's%20Force%20SB%20Cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="680" data-original-width="435" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkQAW60VbfIUmzNdjuxC1ZqjAROLFCB73n31AtyEDN8ltMjFCuVhdkfGtpQbXrE7eg8SoaJDAvWOK00XJyBMtIWECv1c1bDeNF8ry_CU6gGu_w71Qyd907aBjTyj8wtbGFzYuGlQ0ba5lKURCuKQMVyZ8aWUQb315MkXgyY-eMRPfLA4wrfjDv7Mij/w256-h400/Hunter's%20Force%20SB%20Cover.jpg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello, my Bookaholic friends, I have another book review for you and this is one you will not want to miss. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I would like to start by saying I love this cover. It gives a real Tartan Noir vibe and this book certainly sits squarely in the Tartan Noir genre. The atmospheric cover carries over into the book itself which has atmosphere aplenty. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><b>Hunter by name – Hunter by nature.<br /><br />Can DI Hunter Wilson keep Edinburgh safe when he is the hunted?</b><br /><br />Detective Inspector Hunter Wilson is woken in the early hours of the morning by a call from his son. Cameron’s flatmate has been murdered.<br /><br />Why would anybody want to kill a young woman recently arrived in the city?Hunter must call in the new Major Incident Team (MIT), however his ability to be involved in the case is severely compromised when someone from his past resurfaces with revenge on their mind<br /><br />When Hunter goes missing, and his team struggle to find the clues they need to locate hm. Who would want to stop Hunter in his tracks?<br /><br /><b>Meanwhile, Hunter's team must also work closely with the MIT and with or without him, solve the murder in this taut crime thriller.</b><p></p><p><u>Review</u></p><p>I love the D.I. Hunter Wilson crime thrillers and was excited to read this new edition of Hunter's Force. I was not disappointed. What a cracking, on the edge of your seat, up way past bedtime, read it was. </p><p>This thriller is essentially a taut game of cat and mouse, where one is never sure who is the cat and who is the mouse. The hunter has become the hunted, whilst he is still the hunter. If you are confused, please do not be. This book is beautifully written and the stories flows well. The plot is strong and the tension ebbs and flows at just the right pace, meaning the redder is often breathless as the story unfolds. The characters are sublimely drawn, so one feels they know them intimately. Yes, even the ones you wouldn't want to know intimately in real life. In the pages of this book they give the action an extra frisson of both danger and excitement.</p><p>The setting is described perfectly and I felt I was on the streets of Edinburgh. Even if the reader has never been there, they will leave the book feeling like they have visited and know it well.</p><p>All of this is possible because Penny is an expert wordsmith who uses every carefully chosen word to its best effect. This is a book which will leave you both satisfied and wanting more. I would recommend this book and the series to you. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbSgwM__Db37PenMSPveUXkv4S7j93eE2MXIj4xr3cOffemWrIFOA4JwhMXGV5B5vrhXNlCs-Jt8d1DQYPhqgo31etOa1uOQL9aZTonUs1au0fSRzymkgEYkpXGuNldgHBMj7tYzj6VW7Cw9vmfro1WdaTvrTPaVr9XyntGMuzBoGGMJD_nS2CrUg/s1312/Screenshot%202023-01-30%20at%2018.28.16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1312" data-original-width="1010" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpbSgwM__Db37PenMSPveUXkv4S7j93eE2MXIj4xr3cOffemWrIFOA4JwhMXGV5B5vrhXNlCs-Jt8d1DQYPhqgo31etOa1uOQL9aZTonUs1au0fSRzymkgEYkpXGuNldgHBMj7tYzj6VW7Cw9vmfro1WdaTvrTPaVr9XyntGMuzBoGGMJD_nS2CrUg/w154-h200/Screenshot%202023-01-30%20at%2018.28.16.png" width="154" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 24px; margin: 0cm;">Author Biography <o:p></o:p></p><p align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="font-family: "Times New Roman", serif; line-height: 24px; margin: 0cm;"><o:p> </o:p></p></div>Val Penny has an Llb degree from the University of Edinburgh and her MSc from Napier University. She has had many jobs including hairdresser, waitress, banker, azalea farmer and lecturer but has not yet achieved either of her childhood dreams of being a ballerina or owning a candy store. <br /><br />Until those dreams come true, she has turned her hand to writing poetry, short stories, nonfiction books, and novels. Her novels are published by SpellBound Books Ltd. <br /><br />Val is an American author living in SW Scotland. She has two adult daughters of whom she is justly proud and lives with her husband and their cat. <div><br /></div><div>Grab your copy of <a href="https://geni.us/f5eJb">Hunter's Force</a> today.</div><div><br /></div><div>That's it for another week Bookaholics. See you soon and until then keep reading and keep writing. </div><div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><u>Wendy H. Jones</u></div><div><br /></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Wendy H. Jones is an award-winning, international best-selling author who writes adult crime books, young adult mysteries, children's picture books and non-fiction books for writers. She is also a writing and marketing coach, runs the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Writing Matters Online School</a> and is the CEO of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Authorpreneur Accelerator Academy</a>, The president of the Scottish Association of Writers and hosts <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">The Writing and Marketing Show</a> podcast. She is currently writing a series of historical fiction novels based around the life of a 19th Century Surgeon in the Royal Navy. <br /><br /><a href="https://www.wendyhjones.com">Website</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.amazon.com/Wendy-H-Jones/e/B00OABSKH0/ref=dp_byline_cont_pop_ebooks_1">Amazon Author Page</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@wendyhjonesauthor">TikTok</a><br /><br /><a href="https://twitter.com/WendyHJones">Twitter </a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.facebook.com/wendy.jones1">Facebook</a></div></div></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-39944375968627061212022-10-22T00:30:00.001+01:002022-10-22T00:30:00.196+01:00Book Review: The Continued Times of Isabella M. Smugge by Ruth Leigh<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DA6Tpnr-Co4VFIac-3LI2HjvZpOpnyR2yUaMYKRnLr12uqRm6ujqvVsbnaM2CyQCnDr7f1mIIlBX5A6iqvU5Qx6En5m-7Oyh20Unk2BagkmsiosXXYky1FBDvKbuXZM_M7jQGZBvK3GbbgG5XMxah9E1JR72xRIJL81v97VFbChNDdmGfJZYQaTw/s500/41VE2k2A8RL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="328" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8DA6Tpnr-Co4VFIac-3LI2HjvZpOpnyR2yUaMYKRnLr12uqRm6ujqvVsbnaM2CyQCnDr7f1mIIlBX5A6iqvU5Qx6En5m-7Oyh20Unk2BagkmsiosXXYky1FBDvKbuXZM_M7jQGZBvK3GbbgG5XMxah9E1JR72xRIJL81v97VFbChNDdmGfJZYQaTw/s320/41VE2k2A8RL.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello, Bookaholics, it's a lovely day for a book review. Well, it's always a good day for a book review and today I bring you one which is absolutely fabulous, darlings. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you haven't read the first two books in the series, then you really should do now, as these books need to be read in order to get the full effect of Issy and her development as a character. I mean, seriously, rush and get them as they are superb. So, what of this one.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Now in her third year of living the rural dream, starry Instamum Issy Smugge is up against it. A single parent of four with an award-winning brand, a gin-swigging mother convalescing upstairs and a distraught relative craving a shoulder to cry on, her diary and listed Regency home are bursting at the seams!<br />Of course, she can count on lively support from the colourful playground mums – and then there’s always Tom, the startlingly good-looking vicar, and his angelic wife, Claire.<br />But as pressure begins to mount, long-buried memories surface and difficult decisions need to be made. How will our heroine cope with painful emotions? (Clue: no filter!) And when the influencer needs influencing, who will show her the way? <p></p><p><u>Review</u></p><p>Yes, everyone's favourite mumfluencer is back in <i>The Continued Times of Isabella M. Smugge</i>, the third book in the Issy Smugge (rhymes with Brugge of course) series. She is now the parent of four, one a brand new baby, and doing it alone apart from help from a <span style="font-family: Palatino Linotype, serif;"><span style="font-size: 11pt;">housekeeper, a part-time nursery nurse, a gardener and a manicurist. To add insult to injury her </span><span style="font-size: 14.666667px;">insufferable</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> </span><span style="font-size: 14.666667px;">mother</span><span style="font-size: 11pt;"> has had a stroke and is installed in one of the spare rooms whilst she recovers. Issy, in her own inimitable </span><span style="font-size: 14.666667px;">style, is nursing her, meaning she is paying for the round the clock, wall-to-wall nursing staff who are doing all the heavy lifting. Literally. And don't forget the fact Issy still has her image as a mumfluencer to maintain - her adoring fans expect, actually demand, it of her. How is one woman expected to cope. This is the question she asks herself and yet cope she does - in her own fabulous way. Issy's character grows throughout the books; she is definitely becoming more likeable and, dare I say, human. Not that she isn't in the first two books but she is definitely mellowing and growing as a person as the series proceeds.</span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Palatino Linotype, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.666667px;">Where the book, and all the others in the series, stands out is in characterisation. All the characters are expertly drawn and, love them or hate them, they are real. Each has their own foibles and I love finding out more about them as the books progress. On opening the pages of this book I felt I was meeting with family and friends once more. This is the sign of a well written series, one which I love. I loved this book just as much, possibly even more, than the others. Leigh has a way with words which she uses to great effect to entertain and delight. </span></span></p><p><span style="font-family: Palatino Linotype, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14.666667px;">This is Christian fiction but the Christianity is weaved in in a way which does not overwhelm and is extremely natural. At times Issy feels like she is living in a parallel universe with the 'church speak' but this is handled well and explained. Whilst Christians would enjoy this book I believe non-Christians would enjoy it just as much.</span></span></p>Another triumph from the pen of Ruth Leigh and I hope there will be many more Issy books to come. <div><br /></div><div>Signed copies complete with merchandise can be ordered via Ruth's website (<a href="http://www.ruthleighwrites.co.uk/">www.ruthleighwrites.co.uk</a>) and from good bookshops, Eden, Waterstones and Amazon from 22nd October. In Suffolk, Issy Smugge is stocked by Woodbridge Books, Dial Lane Books in Ipswich and The Halesworth Bookshop. <br /><br /><br />I was given an advanced copy of this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. At no point was I asked to provide a positive review and this is based on my reading and enjoyment of the book. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVMM11U9GWGWI9tuvZ3e9Fsqg_e9KxWL4q8UX-YPh60N3gr_cISiGMQxB95W7K-c190GbIhV8XKIADMH67tortA4OGKSilfUV01UXVKbUK2F_xREwF116qe84sSleh7pDTRdj53GDhPGhU4P5Bt5DZFT2btc_JdEn78W1eHlNnQAzqq9FThx8Qc0s/s1750/ruth%20leigh%20photo.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1750" data-original-width="1167" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrVMM11U9GWGWI9tuvZ3e9Fsqg_e9KxWL4q8UX-YPh60N3gr_cISiGMQxB95W7K-c190GbIhV8XKIADMH67tortA4OGKSilfUV01UXVKbUK2F_xREwF116qe84sSleh7pDTRdj53GDhPGhU4P5Bt5DZFT2btc_JdEn78W1eHlNnQAzqq9FThx8Qc0s/s320/ruth%20leigh%20photo.jpeg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div><br /></div></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-69790971698917688062022-07-29T19:50:00.003+01:002022-07-29T19:50:50.135+01:00The Wanderer Scorned - Christian Fiction by Natasha Woodcraft<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYyXb6-5AZVXtA_FqcFfJphEqMEAYxpBMEZ_pc12U9jcAoXbfl_QvkdNQRj8iVF3T8iHObmbx5CUfnwe2OoV_gFD_Jq4kxXgbsVZA6Cw2bxFncAEe_otBl-zRBJNZN-2xR0eeHBufsdSZ9_qLpzSDChLOzntsxdcGjq2LkVSjJyLsGDKjhV-TttVZ/s1200/294643512_154907057131725_3662067118844926718_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyYyXb6-5AZVXtA_FqcFfJphEqMEAYxpBMEZ_pc12U9jcAoXbfl_QvkdNQRj8iVF3T8iHObmbx5CUfnwe2OoV_gFD_Jq4kxXgbsVZA6Cw2bxFncAEe_otBl-zRBJNZN-2xR0eeHBufsdSZ9_qLpzSDChLOzntsxdcGjq2LkVSjJyLsGDKjhV-TttVZ/w400-h209/294643512_154907057131725_3662067118844926718_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Good afternoon, Bookaholics, have I got a treat for you. Today, I bring you a review of <i>The Wanderer Scorned</i> a cracking Christian fiction novel from the pen, or keyboard, of the highly talented Natasha Woodcraft. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Description</u></div><br />The Wanderer is a man shrouded in legend. Moving from place to place in the land of Nod, he is known primarily for the curse that hangs over his life. When that curse is invoked during the celebration of a murderous rampage, The Wanderer is summoned to tell his story.<br /><br />Few know the truth of the tale encompassing life, death, love, hate, faith and doubt, for it has been obscured by centuries of rumour. Now, it will be told by the one who lived it—the man who became The Wanderer.<br /><br />A story you know as you've never heard it before, The Wanderer Series presents the ancient tale of Cain and Abel from Genesis 4, reimagined in gripping new fiction.<br /><br /><br /> <u>Review</u><p></p><p>As it says above, The Wanderer is a reimagining of the story of Cain and Abel from the book of Genesis in the Bible. What a reimagining it is. Beautifully written, Woodcraft brings the story to life using every carefully crafted word to its best possible advantage. I thought I knew the story of Cain and Abel but this brings it vividly to life, highlighting the thoughts and feelings of all involved. There is real emotion in the book and it was as if I could feel every heartbeat, thought and feeling of the characters. The characters are expertly drawn and come alive in your mind. I found myself loving them and hating them at various points of the narrative. Whichever way I fell, I found myself thinking I was in the presence of real people. The setting too is beautifully written and I could imagine a land so different to my own in many ways. I have lived in the Middle East, so my mind may have drawn on that experience to fill the setting in, but I do feel the way it is written the reader feels they are there. </p><p>The portrayal of the Old Testament God and the characters' relationships with him are brilliantly done. While this is a bible based book it does not have a biblical feel to it, so the book could be read by anyone. The main characters' faith is real and this shines through without overwhelming. Although aimed at the Christian reader I believe this could be enjoyed equally by Non-Christians. </p><p>The book is available from bookshops or via the Amazon links below. Please note these are affiliate links and I will receive a few pence from Amazon if you buy via the link. </p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=B0B6D6179R&asins=B0B6D6179R&linkId=fb35944673537293844245d7a2c9b0b2&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bookaholics05-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0B6D6179R&asins=B0B6D6179R&linkId=ad5ce41bcd8248836bd02e4bc779854e&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>I was given an advanced copy of the book from the publisher in return for an honest review. The review is my honest review based on my reading and enjoyment of the book. At no point was I asked to provide a positive review.</p><p><br /></p><p>That's it for another week, Bookaholics. See you soon. Until then, keep reading and keep writing. </p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-71760966602187938502022-07-12T10:12:00.005+01:002022-07-12T17:19:50.270+01:00The Pilgrim by Joy Margetts<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZkmRhPdVj3XVTclnkSe-sFxUQn_Akzr6W0A_9Mly2pSirmww3BLx8VAcUuphVPwvce9L7Wx782YoNPafuuDo_2YyqEIJY_d6W1PoUSz_17lG_0G2mISzziT-ae4TQSNYNKgg_wXOYVjQBJ34p5O0icUtnJvWFOgW_9a3iADJN65qr07mfMu1JH45H/s1787/The%20Pilgrim%20FRONT%20%20final.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1787" data-original-width="1173" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZkmRhPdVj3XVTclnkSe-sFxUQn_Akzr6W0A_9Mly2pSirmww3BLx8VAcUuphVPwvce9L7Wx782YoNPafuuDo_2YyqEIJY_d6W1PoUSz_17lG_0G2mISzziT-ae4TQSNYNKgg_wXOYVjQBJ34p5O0icUtnJvWFOgW_9a3iADJN65qr07mfMu1JH45H/s320/The%20Pilgrim%20FRONT%20%20final.jpg" width="210" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Good morning, Bookaholics. Today I bring you a review of a cracking historical fiction book - The Pilgrim by Joy Margetts. This is one you won't want to miss. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Description</u></div><br />Driven by ambition and family expectation, young Henry de Brampton is determined to make his mark. Destined for a prestigious career in the Church, he readily embraces the chance to experience the world before taking his vows. But fuelled by selfish desire, he recklessly betrays those he loves, with devastating consequences.<br /><br />Overwhelmed with guilt, he seeks redemption among the Cistercians of Abbey Cwmhir and finds a new identity as Brother Hywel. Yet a further thoughtless betrayal will prove he cannot escape himself, and he is forced on pilgrimage to save his vocation.<br /><br />A reluctant pilgrim, can the unlikely company help him discover what it truly means to be great in God’s eyes, and will Hywel ever be willing not just to receive forgiveness but also to forgive himself? <p></p><div><br /></div><div><u>Review</u></div><div><br /></div><div>I am honoured to be opening the blog tour for Joy Margetts latest book and what an amazing book it is. It is firmly rooted in the past whilst being accessible to the modern day reader. The writing is exquisite, allowing the author to establish a real sense of time and place. The character of Hywel is extremely well drawn and I felt I was right there beside him on his pilgrimage. Each carefully chosen word drew me deeper into the story, allowing me to savour a different type of spirituality from the safety of my armchair. The spiritual pilgrimage is equally well handled and I was rooting for Hywel every step of the way. It helped me to draw closer to God through the simplicity of the spirituality during a time when things were both harder and easier. All kudos to Margetts, this book is a triumph and I can highly recommend. </div><div><br /></div><div>You can get the book from any Christian bookshop or from Amazon </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" sandbox="allow-popups allow-scripts allow-modals allow-forms allow-same-origin" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=B0B2Z3PB71&asins=B0B2Z3PB71&linkId=8b85c89ffe007fe6388b5055a2b01095&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><br /></div><div><u>About the Author</u></div><br />Joy Margetts is a published author and blogger. Her books are works of Christian Historical fiction. Set in medieval Wales against the backdrop of Cistercian abbey life, they tell stories of faith, hope and God's redemptive power. Her debut novel 'The Healing' was published by Instant Apostle on 19 March 2021. Joy has also self- published a short novella, 'The Beloved' as both a companion to 'The Healing', and as an easy to read standalone story, which is available to buy on Amazon Kindle. 'The Pilgrim', her second full length novel, will be published by Instant Apostle on 22 July 2022<br /><br />People can find me via my website at <a href="http://www.joymargetts.com/">www.joymargetts.com</a><br /><br />On FB as Joy Margetts Author, on Instagram as @joymargetts, and on Twitter as @jamarge<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69wfRhfhKfmHFEcwDtVkL7Km_Sszw2cKjG46VrfEbgzjD0xK8cgp46C1J6Y_zjE-SlQ_YnVvVCm4rb6GsAohsply4DgsHrIAo1it2P5NfPkc0jtNcRLLUae54S0vf2RC0yKgfbYNoozfBLPGV31vRjiKLeUJEC95hGqKD5ZtD2dKBNbQNLBGIlC6D/s325/joy-1.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="265" data-original-width="325" height="261" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi69wfRhfhKfmHFEcwDtVkL7Km_Sszw2cKjG46VrfEbgzjD0xK8cgp46C1J6Y_zjE-SlQ_YnVvVCm4rb6GsAohsply4DgsHrIAo1it2P5NfPkc0jtNcRLLUae54S0vf2RC0yKgfbYNoozfBLPGV31vRjiKLeUJEC95hGqKD5ZtD2dKBNbQNLBGIlC6D/s320/joy-1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>If you would like to know more about the tour and see what other bloggers think of it, the details are below. Have a great week Bookaholics. Keep reading and writing. <div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqNwJtYkACBGM-NRh3MZWb9HR6PNBKGgEM_agnFb9g_Dk2aJ2KnCYhF95XX20LoRsMtfDg9e2ItHMk4Ss2UkoWG_BgxVpospr9xI8WlbT4tEiVjDu-VgRrKNVyr6vOynJQX4H492qeZT_keq2naKsv9hnW3N2sea677DJQArmfjIZ0lNLg_4OIqUk/s1575/blog%20tour%20poster.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1575" data-original-width="1275" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCqNwJtYkACBGM-NRh3MZWb9HR6PNBKGgEM_agnFb9g_Dk2aJ2KnCYhF95XX20LoRsMtfDg9e2ItHMk4Ss2UkoWG_BgxVpospr9xI8WlbT4tEiVjDu-VgRrKNVyr6vOynJQX4H492qeZT_keq2naKsv9hnW3N2sea677DJQArmfjIZ0lNLg_4OIqUk/s320/blog%20tour%20poster.jpg" width="259" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div><br /></div></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-46011746645328670362022-07-04T00:30:00.001+01:002022-07-04T00:30:00.207+01:00Historical Research Using Libraries<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicUvfJmMm9cS_zgqcK2vGLnrqA_XsT4C9F6mlClKzZ-Wz15liKE9yYwar7jipRMC5k1o78Ws1ZmXJd317nqmlGeW1Jf7g_1TnFqRBPSjsyjQST59yaHJsQRAax4sknRUUxEPJndUlAFYD938vgxc9ynn5aMSZ7vZbzeLhmIFFQ04o-fqojAplTRh0Q/s4032/IMG_5642.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicUvfJmMm9cS_zgqcK2vGLnrqA_XsT4C9F6mlClKzZ-Wz15liKE9yYwar7jipRMC5k1o78Ws1ZmXJd317nqmlGeW1Jf7g_1TnFqRBPSjsyjQST59yaHJsQRAax4sknRUUxEPJndUlAFYD938vgxc9ynn5aMSZ7vZbzeLhmIFFQ04o-fqojAplTRh0Q/s320/IMG_5642.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I've recently been doing a lot of research for the historical fiction and non-fiction books I am writing which resulted in me spending two days in the Rare Manuscripts Reading Room at the National Library of Scotland. Now, one might think that libraries in general and rare manuscripts in particular might be frightfully dull. Nothing could be further from the truth. This was the view from my seat - not only was a I reading abut historic Edinburgh but I was seeing it. Seeing things from above gives you a whole new perspective on what they are like. I would like to think my main character had the self same view but sadly not. The library was started in 1925 and completed in 1956 but they still managed to make it look historic and in keeping with its surroundings. Anyway I digress.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">What exactly was I reading and researching? The answer, Edinburgh and the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland (as it had been known since 1801) from 1834-1838. Therefore, I was interested in newspapers, magazines and pamphlets from that period. The process was simple as outlined below.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Firstly, as I am a member of NLS, I searched their online database for periodicals from the period. I also researched the year before and the year after as I was trying to get a sense of the times in which my main character lived. This included political, social, medical provision, housing, economic, and anything else I could think of that might shape the way he lived and what he believed. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">When I arrived at the library my documents were waiting for me and I had to sit at a desk which had a foam book rest and a weighted cord to hold the pages open. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyvAXO4Zz5ly_V-tQ2f-s044vTVEY4h5yql679HYzZBa4fVQW6eLL7-F2brDjWYmmB-COj1e-fkUDH660adRW8-ZJdPkvexzlnD0dPAs1f3ByoeKMc8Nun9BkkDpBs3-4oD_3Zr90yY7LvfEjqd8-QBRNiZIqD0MDvlaG36CNigaozrEA_fOpSNHH/s4032/IMG_5644.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="4032" data-original-width="3024" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWyvAXO4Zz5ly_V-tQ2f-s044vTVEY4h5yql679HYzZBa4fVQW6eLL7-F2brDjWYmmB-COj1e-fkUDH660adRW8-ZJdPkvexzlnD0dPAs1f3ByoeKMc8Nun9BkkDpBs3-4oD_3Zr90yY7LvfEjqd8-QBRNiZIqD0MDvlaG36CNigaozrEA_fOpSNHH/s320/IMG_5644.JPG" width="240" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The first magazine I looked at was <i>The People's True Friend.</i> The first ever edition was printed in Edinburgh on 31st December, 1834. A shiver went down my spine knowing that my main character, who was actually a real person, may have read this whilst he went to medical school in Edinburgh. Imagine if he had held this very newspaper. This gave me a real sense of connection to him bringing him closer and I could see him more clearly in my mind. The first ever article was crammed full of information about the turmoil in the government of the time. I got a clear picture of the political and social situation of the time. However, I was surprised that, despite this being an Edinburgh publication, it focussed on what was happening in London with no mention of how this impacted on Scotland. However, I can make assumptions based on what was reported. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rgF2aUidR9LuxryTlUsAWUE9dbIo3PYM2jbydMcftcFfn1_rIp-sPqy-FeKsSSYcSG7VVwAw8rYz_qf0kZLNF6pMzvwzqvqXMMjX1m5lIGzKCmn1FrUS1DrtMP7t_1ASKGP8eXfqisJA1XsmMhPBNjLQKRwoduP1-wpnJD5UxhQF0NAkbP0pXoRM/s4032/IMG_5677.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="3024" data-original-width="4032" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5rgF2aUidR9LuxryTlUsAWUE9dbIo3PYM2jbydMcftcFfn1_rIp-sPqy-FeKsSSYcSG7VVwAw8rYz_qf0kZLNF6pMzvwzqvqXMMjX1m5lIGzKCmn1FrUS1DrtMP7t_1ASKGP8eXfqisJA1XsmMhPBNjLQKRwoduP1-wpnJD5UxhQF0NAkbP0pXoRM/s320/IMG_5677.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My next manuscript was J<i>ohnstone's Edinburgh Magazine</i> for January 1834 and an article entitled <i>London Thieves and London Misery.</i> Again, I was surprised by the London Focus of the lead article. Did this demonstrate the importance of London during that time? It certainly made me think and look to exploring this further. This was an impassioned article on the poor of London and how the prisons were full of those who were unfortunate and merely stealing to survive. There was a plea for compassion and a change in social thinking which could reduce the numbers of prisoners. Social reform was obviously needed and at the forefront of people's minds. Again, it got me thinking about what the situation in Edinburgh might be. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The two periodicals had many things in common such as stories, poems, recipes and songs, as well as news from home and abroad. The people of Edinburgh seemed to be well read and interested in a variety of issues and stories, reflective I feel of the emphasis on education and reading in Scotland. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I did read other magazines and pamphlets but the length of this blog prevents me going into more detail. If you are writing historical fiction I would urge you to visit the national library in your country and look at some rare manuscripts. You will learn a lot more than you think. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><i>About the Author</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Wendy H. Jones is an award-winning, international best-selling author who writes adult crime books, young adult mysteries, children's picture books and non-fiction books for writers. She is also a writing and marketing coach, runs the <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Writing Matters Online School</a> and is the CEO of <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Authorpreneur Accelerator Academy</a>, The president of the Scottish Association of Writers and hosts <a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">The Writing and Marketing Show</a> podcast. She is currently writing a series of historical fiction novels based around the life of a 19th Century Surgeon in the Royal Navy. She is represented by Amy Collins of Talcott Notch Literary Agency.<br /><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Website</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Amazon Author Page</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@wendyhjonesauthor">TikTok</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Twitter </a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Facebook</a><br /><br /><a href="https://www.blogger.com/#">Instagram</a></div></div><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-22623362292722725942022-05-28T07:37:00.002+01:002022-05-28T12:20:59.407+01:00Book Review: The Magnificent Moustache and Other Stories<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kU5AH2wbbvOTO8LQbWb3SLMdUW-Ibhm4ma-zlXgnRRiYZjIHcBzv8ENiST9fTF7mwqNZaXmHW9ZrAaZExSOARhNxMb8M7sNKWwwN7WsCnojSWyBoyZk31H2qtQ5_8PV-aoq0IJ16xyKr12DPGzuUb0LdnyWepP0Mc_LR_f2bUYYTGEHuh949w0S9/s1534/Front-TheMagnificentMoustache-03.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1534" data-original-width="1000" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7kU5AH2wbbvOTO8LQbWb3SLMdUW-Ibhm4ma-zlXgnRRiYZjIHcBzv8ENiST9fTF7mwqNZaXmHW9ZrAaZExSOARhNxMb8M7sNKWwwN7WsCnojSWyBoyZk31H2qtQ5_8PV-aoq0IJ16xyKr12DPGzuUb0LdnyWepP0Mc_LR_f2bUYYTGEHuh949w0S9/s320/Front-TheMagnificentMoustache-03.jpg" width="209" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Good morning Bookaholics, I trust you are well and ready to have a fantastic day. I know I am. Today I bring you a review of a book which I think everyone would enjoy, whatever their age.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">From the absolutely magnificent cover to every magnificent word, this book is a triumph. I've never posted a picture of the entire cover before, but I believe this book deserves it. Kudos to the publishers and the designer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY1PW9AfYhx4eJ0YowGZZF6S4iu8Ll64Xm1RV85ULBDVtkTxkCAFZwyeFNRqiDUpGSS8wjs53lZgcOrFXja3C7dJ8M-DFy4y1vaCQYvmeyQg0o1hPqbbJ6IEP6tZXaP3_alTPWQDXYtyu8ObL6ukD_-38mJDhOsoPCapNLhazA_Q6wlEXdi_yhI1Z_/s2318/Screenshot%202022-05-28%20at%2007.24.22.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1700" data-original-width="2318" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY1PW9AfYhx4eJ0YowGZZF6S4iu8Ll64Xm1RV85ULBDVtkTxkCAFZwyeFNRqiDUpGSS8wjs53lZgcOrFXja3C7dJ8M-DFy4y1vaCQYvmeyQg0o1hPqbbJ6IEP6tZXaP3_alTPWQDXYtyu8ObL6ukD_-38mJDhOsoPCapNLhazA_Q6wlEXdi_yhI1Z_/s320/Screenshot%202022-05-28%20at%2007.24.22.png" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Turn the pages and you soon find that the stories inside more than live up to the promises of the cover. The language used is delightful and the stories engrossing. The back blurb says that you can read the stories in one short sitting. I found myself saying I'll just read one more and before I knew where I was, I had read the entire book. My intention was to tell you about my favourite story but I am failing miserably as I loved every last one of them. I also loved the way in which I thought the story was going and then there was a twist at the end. The characters are over the top in an endearing way and are absolutely delightful. The stories themselves pulled me in to some very different worlds and made me laugh out loud. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This book is a masterpiece of how the short story should be written and how words should be used to entertain. I cannot recommend it enough. It would make a fabulous present or even gift to yourself. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The book will be available to buy in the next couple of weeks. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Available as an e-book or as a paperback.</div>Purchase on Amazon or order at all good bookshops.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigt62XYpiLHwzsyMSRlXlgzHvXZRkIUoZToFA0ZcNVcQe97mWxaXc2XS-VuRhGejZ_OcQ5Z4JDMQFwbJsnOwF4CiolsWrTV3Sc6_i2y_T_w8DcFCjBwPJHfih-1wdcOdpXfLoqKOoIWcUfWEQWtopZwD_5EzrnlclJjjL1s80_EV_5eY83-AwdSVet/s1600/Headshot%20Jenny%20Sanders.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigt62XYpiLHwzsyMSRlXlgzHvXZRkIUoZToFA0ZcNVcQe97mWxaXc2XS-VuRhGejZ_OcQ5Z4JDMQFwbJsnOwF4CiolsWrTV3Sc6_i2y_T_w8DcFCjBwPJHfih-1wdcOdpXfLoqKOoIWcUfWEQWtopZwD_5EzrnlclJjjL1s80_EV_5eY83-AwdSVet/s320/Headshot%20Jenny%20Sanders.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br /><div><br /><div>You can follow the author on</div><div><br /></div>Facebook: <a href="#">Jenny Sanders - writer</a><br /><br />Instagram: <a href="#">@jennysanderswriter </a><br /><br />Blog: <a href="#">Dancing Through Chaos</a><br /><br /><br />That's it for another week Bookaholics. See you soon and, until then, keep reading and writing. <br /><br /></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-50396490246002628682022-04-21T00:30:00.003+01:002022-05-29T18:26:37.817+01:00Book Review: Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire by SC Skillman<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDPld-d_lG0YLDXWcoMUuTpj3wL8arluBeh2LVWvmpuFmsl7ML9irt40V362A6UoC0XxB1jTDj0F627t4RciFSqbt_arlrbOSbU-iSudBsOEnooturoldAKy_rM2cWQALE-uGWlS5r94Fq3a46QfcaVe1fh35ZM7I3NmWb99_NRQ8qfDEv2IueZWU/s499/51Ij3zYnUTL._SX351_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="499" data-original-width="353" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDPld-d_lG0YLDXWcoMUuTpj3wL8arluBeh2LVWvmpuFmsl7ML9irt40V362A6UoC0XxB1jTDj0F627t4RciFSqbt_arlrbOSbU-iSudBsOEnooturoldAKy_rM2cWQALE-uGWlS5r94Fq3a46QfcaVe1fh35ZM7I3NmWb99_NRQ8qfDEv2IueZWU/s320/51Ij3zYnUTL._SX351_BO1,204,203,200_.jpg" width="226" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Good evening, Bookaholics, have I got a book for you. Now, you are probably wondering, Wendy, you're from Scotland, why on earth a book about Warwickshire. The answer - - this book is truly brilliant. <div><br /><b>Blurb</b><br /><br />Warwickshire, often known as Shakespeare’s County, has a host of strange and mysterious tales ranging from ancient legends and stories of the supernatural to more modern documented cases. Curious beliefs and customs were once widespread in Warwickshire’s towns and villages, some of which still flourish today. These strange and spooky stories include the quirky death of the Roundhead commander who owned Warwick Castle, the association of the great author J. R. R. Tolkien with the town, and the story of the hand of glory obtained at Warwick hangings. The historic buildings of Stratford-upon-Avon have witnessed many strange events over the centuries and more recently the Crackley Wood sprite has been sighted at Kenilworth. Other stories include the Wroth Silver at Knightlow Cross, an 800-year‑old violent ball game played annually at Atherstone on Shrove Tuesday, and the unresolved mystery of the 1945 murder at Lower Quinton associated with witchcraft, along with other strange tales from the surrounding towns and villages. These stories are accompanied by the author’s photographs in this hugely entertaining book.</div><div><br /></div><div><b>Review</b></div><div><br /></div><div>I love, in fact adore, visiting new places and learning new things. If it's combined with a place associated with Shakespeare it ticks all my boxes. This book is jam packed with fascinating information about different places in Warwickshire. The county, both historical and contemporary, is skilfully brought to life in both prose and pictures. The photographs which support the stories were taken by either SC Skillman herself or by members of her family. Highly professional, they are the perfect accompaniment to bring the horse to life. Or is it the prose which brings the pictures to life. I believe both are true. </div><div><br /></div><div>The book is split into sections - from Strange and Spooky Tales to And Then The Whining Schoolboy: Lewis Carol at Rugby School, via myths, legends, witchcraft, and so much more the stories leap off the page and into your heart and psyche. The author, a skilled writer, brings the county to life and the stories are delightful.</div><div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnroZ9DRKP9SGRcAt6MxSCU8Pz_-pJbrVZTibgyInut6PXPe-vA61UiebAM52kdGfNVfqAR30LvzsFnYgL_tPv6xulq7ffIfa-MnmiX_L_EIO9fXJbbFzedzhr1CgaagT-2yqvlrlGYOhKLnTZXUw_aJAbEYGyXXu7JyQrn1HCNRwGV1iFXylrGIm/s1331/278813682_1393073117818167_5573351331112180256_n.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="888" data-original-width="1331" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLnroZ9DRKP9SGRcAt6MxSCU8Pz_-pJbrVZTibgyInut6PXPe-vA61UiebAM52kdGfNVfqAR30LvzsFnYgL_tPv6xulq7ffIfa-MnmiX_L_EIO9fXJbbFzedzhr1CgaagT-2yqvlrlGYOhKLnTZXUw_aJAbEYGyXXu7JyQrn1HCNRwGV1iFXylrGIm/s320/278813682_1393073117818167_5573351331112180256_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Of course, no book about and English County is complete without Morris Dancers. I loved the colourful images for this story, as well as the colourful description which described Morris Dancing to a T. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There is something for everyone in this book whether you are visiting Warwickshire or not. If you are visiting, or live anywhere nearby, I would say it is a must read. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was given a copy of this book by the publisher in return for an honest review. At no point was I asked to write a positive review and my review is based on my reading of the book. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My next blog will come to you from Antigua in the Caribbean where I'm off to do a research trip. Yes. research. See you soon Bookaholics and until then keep reading and writing. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can buy the book from all bishops or via the author's <a href="https://scskillman.com">website. </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b>Bio</b></div><br />Sheila lives in Warwickshire, and writes psychological, paranormal and mystery fiction and non-fiction. She is a member of the Society of Authors and the Association of Christian Writers.<br /><br />Her two non-fiction books Paranormal Warwickshire and Illustrated Tales of Warwickshire are both published by Amberley and she is now writing a third book in her Warwickshire series, A-Z of Warwick.<br /><br />Her new novel, Director's Cut, is out with publishers and she is also working on Standing Ovation, the sequel.<br /><br /><br /><br />She began her publishing career with the duology Mystical Circles and A Passionate Spirit which are both set in the same mysterious English manor house in the heart of England - the beautiful Cotswolds hills. There, gothic themes, paranormal events and ghostly tales are never far away. She has set the books in contemporary times, not far from her present home.<br /><br />She has also written Perilous Path, A Writer's Journey: a self help book for those writing a novel, or who would like to write a novel. Packed full of tips and friendly reminders, it's encouraging and motivational. It's also for anyone who loves finding out about writers, their lives and works.<br /><br />Sheila was born and brought up in Orpington, Kent, and has loved writing stories most of her life. She studied English Literature at Lancaster University, and her first permanent job was as a production secretary with the BBC. Later she lived for nearly five years in Australia before returning to the UK. She has now settled in Warwick with her husband and son, and her daughter currently lives and works in Australia.<br />Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-61556716037693403122022-04-18T21:56:00.001+01:002022-04-18T21:56:51.999+01:00Book Review: Burrowed by Maressa Mortimer<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Kv8jTfsdyQ0dUjHrG1wFft9ilxXWjI3JJhSeWq3woO3EKPzzKrndPX-DW2mT8hW5pHt6vkQUReNlGh-PyE2s9WFo-ifc2iRA5crDr0ACRL7PmBI06uQMw8vtVBMMLQJ9Eonl_iqyQ8ZEtOOVOqSkG42AQkV6_C2X5eJT0qCE_TKrQ4gErf0pqk7n/s960/image3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="600" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Kv8jTfsdyQ0dUjHrG1wFft9ilxXWjI3JJhSeWq3woO3EKPzzKrndPX-DW2mT8hW5pHt6vkQUReNlGh-PyE2s9WFo-ifc2iRA5crDr0ACRL7PmBI06uQMw8vtVBMMLQJ9Eonl_iqyQ8ZEtOOVOqSkG42AQkV6_C2X5eJT0qCE_TKrQ4gErf0pqk7n/s320/image3.jpeg" width="200" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><br />Good evening, Bookaholics, have I got a cracking book for you today. I am honoured to be kicking off the blog tour for Maressa Mortimer's, <i>Burrowed</i>. Before I tell you about it you first need to read the blurb.<p></p><p><br /></p><p>BLURB<br /><br />The beautiful island of Ximiu has a plan for a more sustainable future. But not everyone living on the island is on board. Jasira, daughter of the governing matriarch, is determined to uncover the dark forces threatening her home. With the help of her friends she embark on a desperate bid to save her island community. When the price is higher than she had bargained for, will Jasira still find faith and beauty in the world around her?</p><p>REVIEW</p><p>This is not the usual type of book I read but I have to tell you I absolutely loved it. What a brilliant book. Although set in an alternate reality I could picture the setting perfectly and felt as if I was there. The characters are extremely well drawn with individual personalities. I loved the different traits they displayed and the ways in which the teenagers from two totally different communities pulled together. The plotting is clever and the book deals with some emotional themes. I don't mind admitting I cried - on elf the themes being grief. There is mystery as well as fantasy and this worked extremely well. </p><p>This is a well plotted book which is unusual and yet highly entertaining. From the gorgeous cover to the last line, it pulls you in and keeps you reading. Mortimer is a gifted writer and this shows with every well placed word. </p><p>I was given an ARC by the publisher in order for an honest review. At no time was I asked to write a positive review and my review is an honest one based on my reading and enjoyment of the book. </p><p>So, my Bookaholic friends. I would advise you to buy this book and read it immediately. Seriously, you will not regret it. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA8kyLkOvOb6aoygfP56081ul5TVj4egrN8jaz49NXJ_azE6sxmgDGArymsMErSIfcqW6Id8PxJZQ_JVfjNDCtgsWC9nOcSFcZSa4uZsU-oYtU8Yh7h1NEkmDUQcZEC3n_q_ASvPAEa17-Qt6raNg32LOqstG8kWwjkyjx_4nKRzBaIIqFiM8p2wzZ/s540/image2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="419" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA8kyLkOvOb6aoygfP56081ul5TVj4egrN8jaz49NXJ_azE6sxmgDGArymsMErSIfcqW6Id8PxJZQ_JVfjNDCtgsWC9nOcSFcZSa4uZsU-oYtU8Yh7h1NEkmDUQcZEC3n_q_ASvPAEa17-Qt6raNg32LOqstG8kWwjkyjx_4nKRzBaIIqFiM8p2wzZ/s320/image2.jpeg" width="248" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br />AUTHOR BIOGRAPHY <br /><br />Maressa grew up in the Netherlands, and moved to England soon after finishing teaching training college. Married to Pastor Richard Mortimer they live in a Cotswold village with their four children. She is a homeschool mum, enjoying the time spent with family, travelling, reading and turning life into stories, she wants to use her stories to show practical Christian’s living in a fallen world.<div><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4Kl4ZA8tiZiIRfHWfgmjKwATuiRWw2aJG6SVepmgGKGCNS0g5ZoV_ZvCYZQyY_yA47mggV6jD8SeNxt-J2xkmdKN_5QPQs-iuNRKaLzg25xHxkbBfQs6YjgViLpuusHjYOx-4Yda3jw2ueMiFX9VFGSuS_a28tQ4P6z2niYoX6mwzbrSsAi39fCm/s2245/image0-2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1587" data-original-width="2245" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx4Kl4ZA8tiZiIRfHWfgmjKwATuiRWw2aJG6SVepmgGKGCNS0g5ZoV_ZvCYZQyY_yA47mggV6jD8SeNxt-J2xkmdKN_5QPQs-iuNRKaLzg25xHxkbBfQs6YjgViLpuusHjYOx-4Yda3jw2ueMiFX9VFGSuS_a28tQ4P6z2niYoX6mwzbrSsAi39fCm/s320/image0-2.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>If you would like to read any of the other blogs on this tour, the details are above. <br /><div><br /><br /></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-68623040640084485572022-03-17T00:30:00.001+00:002022-03-17T00:30:00.197+00:00The Wounds of Time by Sue Russell<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2NLWt4AP7hgLzcwc2x1PW9QCzWOXRl3JKUm53wvp-jIRkWdx-ZQ9sc_nzhSCO-MT15kihbnKOlyjfPX4dqkUScj4A72LE2Cf7MLN-mZ-cV8QwYuPiE_oztRTv312hlFsBD20VCKFEsoikK3ljjNpkh-WqPLye_xS9hOzjh9qjsQ5Xx8BqDelT5iXc=s2048" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1289" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEh2NLWt4AP7hgLzcwc2x1PW9QCzWOXRl3JKUm53wvp-jIRkWdx-ZQ9sc_nzhSCO-MT15kihbnKOlyjfPX4dqkUScj4A72LE2Cf7MLN-mZ-cV8QwYuPiE_oztRTv312hlFsBD20VCKFEsoikK3ljjNpkh-WqPLye_xS9hOzjh9qjsQ5Xx8BqDelT5iXc=s320" width="201" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Good morning, bookaholics. Today I bring you a cracking book from the pen of Sue Russell. This is one you'll want to read, let me tell you. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Here I was, banging on the door of a house I never wanted to enter again, transported back into the world of an adolescent seething with rage.<br /><br />I'm strong, I told myself. I can cope. I never cry.<br /><br />Janet is queen of her realm.<br /><br />Senior Clerk at Hartington Chambers, she is at the pinnacle of a career achieved in the face of hardship. But when work and family crises collide, her life begins to unravel. As disaster threatens, will denying the past and relying on herself be enough to carry her through?<p></p><p><u>Review</u></p><p>This is a character driven book which means the characters have to be authentic, fascinating, and strong enough to carry the story. Russell has hit the nail very squarely on the head on every single point. Whilst the characters themselves could be any family in the UK, Russell has written them so well they leap off the page and into your own life. You will find yourself rooting for them at every stage of the narrative. The characters are compelling, love them or hate them they are realistic and authentic. Janet, the main character has her own weaknesses but she is someone you want to succeed in every way. She pulls the story along, allowing the reader a glimpse into her life. I wanted to keep reading to find out what would happen in the end. This is not an edge of your seat page turner but it is, however, a book in which you can immerse yourself and enjoy with a cuppa and a biscuit. It would be the perfect holiday read. Would I like to read more about Janet and her family and friends? Yes, indeed I would, the sign of a good book. I would definitely recommend this book and this author and I will be reading more from her. </p><p>That's it for another week Bookaholics. See you soon and remember, keep reading and keep writing.</p><p><br /></p><p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /> <p></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-64009367803056947562022-02-20T09:49:00.001+00:002022-02-20T09:49:57.953+00:00Book Review: The Little House in Heaven by Kathleen Watson<br /><br /> <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgb43Rk1mMU7wCIqSz1ZPy8lcwiv0dQE6vFQJb2psnH7YXtqspG4vh0Eb7Jfmn7VIH0UnsyVU7b812wKBjdOagHJhJ_cJjfuUNpJwoLAh_QxgcdosJGGJP2ub19PPWicCieKL7_HOyudhq0Cii-IYVqisP5H2KqKu07P9xfCpQHgW0ySlnC9WwDwFwY=s1538"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/a/AVvXsEgb43Rk1mMU7wCIqSz1ZPy8lcwiv0dQE6vFQJb2psnH7YXtqspG4vh0Eb7Jfmn7VIH0UnsyVU7b812wKBjdOagHJhJ_cJjfuUNpJwoLAh_QxgcdosJGGJP2ub19PPWicCieKL7_HOyudhq0Cii-IYVqisP5H2KqKu07P9xfCpQHgW0ySlnC9WwDwFwY=w203-h320" /></a></div><br /><br />I bring you another children's book, today, my Bookaholic friends. This one is for children of eight years old and is very firmly aimed at the Christian Market. <br /><br /><br /><u>Book Description</u><br /><br />What is in the secret place up the attic staircase? When eight year old Melissa goes exploring, she finds herself stepping into the pages of a book of Bible stories. At the House on the Rock she meets Jesus, who takes Melissa to her very own little house. This ‘little house in Heaven’ grows bigger and becomes furnished with ‘treasures in Heaven’ as Melissa walks in the Christian life here on Earth. Then she meets Rufus, the boy next door, who leads her into mischief and danger…<br /><br />But Jesus is with her all the way, and she learns valuable lessons of trust and obediance in her trails. These profound truths are gently woven into the story as Melissa enjoys times of fellowship with Jesus in her little house in Heaven.<br /><br />Eventually Melissa has to grow up and learn to walk by faith and the ‘treasure’ she lays up in Heaven becomes a glorious reward in the end.<div><br /></div><div><br /><u>Review</u></div><div><br /></div><div>As I say in my introduction this is a book aimed squarely at the Christian market as it helps to explore the Christian faith with children. It is well written and the storyline is strong, following through in a way which makes it easy for children to follow. The main character, a lovely little girl called Melissa, is realistic and engaging. She learns about faith and prayer and these themes are explored through the eyes of a child which can be a refreshing change. The language used, on the whole, is suitable for the intended age group, although I did think that the use of The King James Bible may be over some of the children's heads. It does allow for parents to explore the different bibles with their children and also why there are different bibles. At times Melissa spends time in Heaven with Jesus, again allowing an opportunity for parents to discuss Jesus and faith with their child. I like the way the House in Heaven develops as the book progresses, a lovely theme that runs through the book and links to the title. I thought the ending was a nice surprise. </div><div><br /></div><div><u>Further Reviews</u></div><div><br /></div>This book, aimed at young readers of 8 years or more, has a simple Christian message embedded within an imaginative story that is written with just the right balance between scene setting, dealing with thoughts and feelings, and furthering the plot. It is a long time since I was 8 years old, but I have enjoyed reading it – Evelyn Wendon Author<br /><br /><br />One of the best books I have read, feel good and thought provoking, creates pictures of heaven – Aylson Smith<div><br /></div><div><u>Buy the Book</u></div><br />Little House in Heaven can be bought from <a href="https://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/273810480044" target="_blank">Ebay</a> - £5 for the Book plus £1 for Postage<br /><br /> <br />Or from Kathleen on this number 01903 725820<div><br /></div><div>Little House in Heaven <a href="https://m.facebook.com/people/The-Little-House-in-Heaven-by-Kathleen-Watson/100063765501052/" target="_blank">Facebook Page</a></div><div><br /></div><div>That's it for another day Bookaholics. I am going to start posting more Author posts as well. See you soon and until then, keep reading and keep writing. </div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-3500681785426972872021-12-03T09:59:00.001+00:002021-12-03T09:59:22.537+00:00A Shetland Winter Mystery <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ7qaue__J6_UECuqwlrpyxesfZJinMCfzhG5-u76QRgZD6Maqv7KV64VR1jzOu5B4_RmXxkVxSpP5pkkZT1AzlZ9FB9D8cOQLCyf14HWqNdCEyLerFhmo7xxLuKAdL1h2INA2ykfe2I/s1024/image4.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1024" data-original-width="667" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ7qaue__J6_UECuqwlrpyxesfZJinMCfzhG5-u76QRgZD6Maqv7KV64VR1jzOu5B4_RmXxkVxSpP5pkkZT1AzlZ9FB9D8cOQLCyf14HWqNdCEyLerFhmo7xxLuKAdL1h2INA2ykfe2I/s320/image4.jpeg" width="208" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">It's the dark nights in the run up to Christmas, and sailing sleuth Cass Lynch's first night on dry land is disturbed by strange noises outside her isolated cottage. Tiny footprints in the moonlit snow trail from her front door before mysteriously disappearing. Soon Cass learns others were visited by the same tiny feet in the night.<br style="text-align: left;" /><br style="text-align: left;" /><span style="text-align: left;">It looks like ingenious local teenagers playing tricks - but what happens when festive games turn deadly?</span><br style="text-align: left;" /><br style="text-align: left;" /><span style="text-align: left;">Cass soon finds out as a schoolboy disappears, leaving only a trail of footprints into the middle of a snowy field. She's determined to investigate, but uncovering the truth will also put her in danger . . .</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You know a book is going to be good when the first line draws you in and makes your ant to keep reading. Fortunately, every other line lived up to the promise of the first and I really did want to keep reading. At first the book seems to be a Norse/Shetland myth but it soon emerged that something far more sinister was at work in the background. In this book Cass is on dry land rather than at sea, although the nautical allusions are still there and boats are not entirely omitted. Sailing fans should not panic. There is a real Scottish flavour with Shetland dialect sprinkled throughout but these are explained well within the text without pulling the reader out of the story.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Review</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the real strengths of this book is the setting. Shetland is portrayed in all it's wondrous, wintry beauty. The descriptions allowed me to picture it perfectly. I have always wanted to go to Shetland and this has made my desire to do so even stronger. The author has a real flair for words and uses each word to good effect to place the reader directly on the islands. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cass is a great character but at first I was unsure of her foray on to dry land. I should not have worried as this added a whole new exciting dimension to the storyline. All of the characters are well drawn and I found myself relating to them on many levels. As a former teacher, Taylor has a real understanding of teenagers and children and this came across in her portrayal of the younger characters. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The story itself is excellent. This is a slow burn book rather than an on the edge of your seat tale, but I think the tension is all the better for it. I genuinely loved this book and can highly recommend it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-r1I3zqTNh_O2PPL1uFds2rfIxZq51IIujIA4dN7W-X-FPsJucYglo107KdDhRLLpovql-8_35NrhDj_2SxZw1CRilZ8O1gZND5-sFVEKQVtTbtnGySk6_Zm7s7tGu9N4L_v4g3SVM4/s750/image3.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="500" data-original-width="750" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgf-r1I3zqTNh_O2PPL1uFds2rfIxZq51IIujIA4dN7W-X-FPsJucYglo107KdDhRLLpovql-8_35NrhDj_2SxZw1CRilZ8O1gZND5-sFVEKQVtTbtnGySk6_Zm7s7tGu9N4L_v4g3SVM4/s320/image3.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><p><br /></p><u>Author Biography</u> <br /><br />Marsali Taylor grew up near Edinburgh, and came to Shetland as a newly-qualified teacher. She is currently a part-time teacher on Shetland’s scenic west side, living with her husband and two Shetland ponies. Marsali is a qualified STGA tourist-guide who is fascinated by history, and has published plays in Shetland’s distinctive dialect, as well as a history of women's suffrage in Shetland. She's also a keen sailor who enjoys exploring in her own 8m yacht, and an active member of her local drama group.<br /><br /><br /><p></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-12641056336381099262021-11-27T00:30:00.002+00:002021-11-27T00:30:00.203+00:00Book Review: Snowflake's Big Adventure <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiIA7GzgSGOtAIpYUZLx3zh73QWfhgEuSr5R98ZPEN72yoUQabDiFJ7eP9JlGBzgYbFFVsYdwzr_LCb7TTB6V32IFivPSl4fy9WhpMDyrbbm_FiDW4CZg1TpavLUC3KnPqDVTAlFXEoY/s1013/image2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1013" data-original-width="993" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLiIA7GzgSGOtAIpYUZLx3zh73QWfhgEuSr5R98ZPEN72yoUQabDiFJ7eP9JlGBzgYbFFVsYdwzr_LCb7TTB6V32IFivPSl4fy9WhpMDyrbbm_FiDW4CZg1TpavLUC3KnPqDVTAlFXEoY/s320/image2.jpeg" width="314" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">As a children's picture book writer I love picture books, so jumped at the chance to review this one. I am so glad I did as it is beautiful. The story is simple but would be loved by any child; little snowflake is a delight and I found myself right there beside him. The illustrations are beautiful and bring the story to life; again snowflake is delightful. The colours are magnificent and the illustrator has them spot on. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This is a book which would make a fabulous Christmas gift. It opens up endless possibilities to discuss snow with children and what can be done when it is snowing. It is the type of book to be read when curled up with hot cocoa on a winter's night.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Congratulations to the author, Erin Mackey, for a book which is sure to be a perennial favourite.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWto-Ctx4Aus7irtJezZ1dYg2U94goaZpITe9j_bBJNgUZpnA2P6XIe0qVFk4v6lQqGLMecR7ELs0IZ5kw__-qfPdi-uU5iHy9xSOg_luSKNpHAgHIb6ysNKnC-4u_pfi2ClaTD9SXcvM/s2048/image2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1639" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWto-Ctx4Aus7irtJezZ1dYg2U94goaZpITe9j_bBJNgUZpnA2P6XIe0qVFk4v6lQqGLMecR7ELs0IZ5kw__-qfPdi-uU5iHy9xSOg_luSKNpHAgHIb6ysNKnC-4u_pfi2ClaTD9SXcvM/s320/image2.jpeg" width="256" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can find out more about Erin via </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.erinmackeyauthor.com/">website </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://facebook.com/ErinMackeyBooks/">Facebook</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://linkedin.com/in/erinmackeyauthor/">LinkedIn </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Twitter @ErinMackeyBooks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Instagram @ErinMackeyAuthor</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can buy the book from the authors website or via <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Snowflakes-Big-Adventure-Erin-Mackey-ebook/dp/B09HTZ1KJ2/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=snowflake%27s+big+adventure&qid=1637961508&sr=8-1">Amazon</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Thank you to Reading Between the Lines Book Tours for providing a copy of this book for review purposes. At no point was I asked to provide a positive review and my review is based on my enjoyment of the book. </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><p></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-75853116770492404372021-10-11T11:38:00.000+01:002021-10-11T11:38:03.880+01:00The Trials of Isabella M Smugge: #IssySmuggeisback<p> </p><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmY4s_yWxD8TasR4i5tltTB8CHYsSDNW5LGBdEPuGYh20wuPq0588n1nx8D4X6IWWLRw5X-UReba79GqYw8cHEQikm09GtdcPbdRQhQ5JkMDxhGtY_IBdHOWHntsB8vwj1SJjVciq4PGo/s1200/BookBrushImage79235.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmY4s_yWxD8TasR4i5tltTB8CHYsSDNW5LGBdEPuGYh20wuPq0588n1nx8D4X6IWWLRw5X-UReba79GqYw8cHEQikm09GtdcPbdRQhQ5JkMDxhGtY_IBdHOWHntsB8vwj1SJjVciq4PGo/w400-h210/BookBrushImage79235.png" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">#PerfectlyArrangedforEffect<br /><br /></td></tr></tbody></table><p></p><p>Good morning Bookaholics, well, the day I have been waiting for has arrived. Everyone's favourite lifestyle blogger, #influencer and #hashtagqueen is back in her second book, <i>The Trials of Isabella M. Smugge</i>. When it comes to follow up books one is always worried that the book will not measure up. So, I approached this book with a great deal of excitement and some measure of trepidation - would this second book live up to the brilliance of the first?</p><p>Let me reassure you my fears were groundless. I enjoyed every well-crafted word as much as I enjoyed the first book. I can safely say Issy's return is a triumph for her author, Ruth Leigh. In this book Isabella is pregnant and her husband has ditched her and run off with the au pair. Quite frankly, Issy is in a pickle, having to manage household and kids singlehandedly, for the first time in her life. How on earth would she cope and would this have an impact on her perfect lifestyle image? These questions kept me engaged, enthralled, and entertained throughout the whole book. I loved Issy in the first book but in this one she seems somehow more relatable. I loved seeing her progression and the way she handled every 'trial' that was thrown at her. Her growth was a delight and we get to see the softer side of her. I also loved seeing the way her friendships develop and grow and she relates to people much more fully. </p><p>The ending left me on a cliff edge yet again. Ruth Leigh is a gifted writer and this shows in the way she teases and tantalises the reader, drawing them in and keeping them reading. Throughout the book I genuinely wanted to know what would happen next. I loved the book, I loved the ending, and I can't wait for the next one. I would like to recommend this book to the gallery. It is outstanding; what more can I say.</p><p>If you would like to buy a copy you can do so through the links below. </p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=B09FYKVZMM&asins=B09FYKVZMM&linkId=6eb01606a1745141dd008deb7b43c347&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p>Thank you, Bookaholics, for joining me for another review. Watch this space and I will be back soon with another post. Until then, keep reading and keep writing. </p><p><br /></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-65166131797055421182021-09-19T00:30:00.000+01:002021-09-19T00:30:00.209+01:00Devil's Cauldron by Alasdair Wham <p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXltZjw-zktAI5Yw0ekdS8QSaPL6BuV2-HqM7JjuiE1zN2kTzYwqEseqc8JgiPP8oiH8A5IeSTGyE6CTLF2KkLDW5aYtoEsTiuPz1Vxi2A3zXoGBjjRtJ90h9LUmKj-5rsPD2AIzoCDk/s2048/image0-1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2048" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKXltZjw-zktAI5Yw0ekdS8QSaPL6BuV2-HqM7JjuiE1zN2kTzYwqEseqc8JgiPP8oiH8A5IeSTGyE6CTLF2KkLDW5aYtoEsTiuPz1Vxi2A3zXoGBjjRtJ90h9LUmKj-5rsPD2AIzoCDk/w400-h283/image0-1.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I would like to thank Reading Between the Lines Blog Tours for giving me the opportunity to bring you this book, my Bookaholic friends. This gritty thriller is set in my native Scotland, so a real local flavour today. It's enough to make you crack out the Whiskey.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span face="Calibri, sans-serif" style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-size: 18.66666603088379px;"><br /></span></div>What would you do if you saw your father murdered and no one believed you? When he was twelve Finn McAdam, saw his father, a scientist, murdered. No one believed him. Now he has returned to his native Galloway to discover the truth. Wherever it leads him. Whatever it costs. But the conspiracy he discovers exposes a cover-up involving leading political figures and places his life in great danger. Some people are determined that the truth must not get out.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rWTJVUT3J3jN8rSjSowwSe81JHvRbAkHJDbOdPix5XQcSRIsxKFLcsx5X_rSmJxzPT_Tn4PIyQ1Uo6olOLAPZ2lAKLmxgxCVTEgBW5VrpGF485IFRVrbyNxYVG9qi4_wK7WuUVE5jkw/s1199/4bf7efe4-9b06-4e1e-a167-b0c781ab8b23.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1199" data-original-width="798" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7rWTJVUT3J3jN8rSjSowwSe81JHvRbAkHJDbOdPix5XQcSRIsxKFLcsx5X_rSmJxzPT_Tn4PIyQ1Uo6olOLAPZ2lAKLmxgxCVTEgBW5VrpGF485IFRVrbyNxYVG9qi4_wK7WuUVE5jkw/s320/4bf7efe4-9b06-4e1e-a167-b0c781ab8b23.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Extract</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>The jam and cream filling palatable, the sponge harder to swallow, the flavour now tainted with the metallic tang of blood.<br />An elderly couple got up to leave, and as they reached the door it was held open by a woman who was entering. She was dressed in a black jerkin and matching black trousers – a uniform. She headed to his table to be greeted with a brief smile as she stood there, not, it seemed, expecting to be asked to sit down.<br />‘How long, Tania?’ I had heard that voice before.<br />‘The car is ready, sir. They managed to repair the puncture. I’ve parked it in St Andrew Street, close to the Kings Arms Hotel. As usual, there were no spaces left on King Street,’ she added, not with a smile but with a slight softening of her features, an attempted apology for any inconvenience caused. There was a rapport between them. Tania must be his chauffeur.<br />Tania was stocky, muscle not fat, I thought, her dark shoulder- length hair streaked with wisps of grey, her face impassive. She knew her place. She was also disrupting my plans. I couldn’t approach him now, not when he had company. I quickly supped some of the coffee to suppress my emotion.<br />‘That’s good. I’ll be out in a minute. Just wait in the car.’ He certainly was a charmer, knew how to treat women. Same way that he treated my father, contempt inbred. Now things could change with a bit of luck, I thought, shovelling down another piece of cake, although it stuck in my gullet.<br />Tania complied, not reacting to the brush-off, and turned about to leave the cafe. I looked around, no one else had noticed his chauvinism. However, no one else had the personal interest I had in him.<br />After a few seconds, he drained his coffee cup and stood up, putting his pen back carefully inside his jacket, and then, picking up the paper, he beckoned the waitress over and handed her a paper note. He waited while she brought his change. I kept my head down, managing another mouthful of coffee, masking my face.<br />‘Thank you.’ He took his change and headed towards the door.<br />Suddenly, I realised that I needed to pay and follow him, but the waitress had disappeared into the kitchen. I got up as he left and rushed over to the counter.<br />‘Hello,’ I said loudly and rapped on the counter. I repeated myself and a face appeared, an older woman.<br />‘I need to pay up, I have to go.’<br />‘Okay, no problem. Michelle, can you settle this gentleman’s bill? He’s in a hurry,’ she added.<br />Seconds passed before Michelle appeared. Precious seconds. Michelle returned, reached up and took the tab from a clip and checked the menu for prices.<br />‘Everything okay, sir?’ She glanced across at the half-eaten cake.<br />‘Yes,’ but she was taking too long. He could be away in his car by now. I threw down a ten- pound note and said, ‘Keep the change.’ I turned and ran out of the cafe. A glance told me he wasn’t on King Street. I knew Castle Douglas well – after all, I had lived in it for many years when I was younger – and rushed the short distance to St Andrew Street and looked along it. There he was, walking slowly, catching up with Tania who had not yet reached the car. I lurked at the corner and then quickly crossed the street and tried to walk fast without attracting their attention. I stopped beside an antique showroom as Tania pressed a key fob. The indicator lights flashed on a dark-coloured sports coupe, trimmed with a line of lime along the sill, the vivid colour reflecting off the highly polished body of the car. It looked like an Aston Martin, top of the range, a dream car only for the wealthy. Tania held the passenger door open and, as he got in, I took a picture with my iPhone.<br /><br />Tania paused as she walked round the car, as if she had noticed my action. I turned away and took a picture of a white plaster bust of some historic figure in the window and pretended to be interested in it, breathing hard to steady my tension.<br />Minutes later I heard the throaty sound of the sports car starting and turned trying to note the registration number, but a car passed blocking my view. I could only see three letters... AGL. The car turned up Queen Street, which ran parallel to King Street, and was gone. I stood for some time, letting my emotion subside before I continued towards Queen Street.<br />He existed and he knew the area. I had to find him, so many questions to ask him and then... as my thoughts turned to plotting revenge, I saw the car pass the end of the road. I barely had time to turn away but noticed a lime-coloured stripe on the bonnet. Had Tania doubled back to check up on me? Had he recognised me after all? Unlikely, but I had to be careful until the conditions were right for me to exact my revenge.<br /><br />You can buy the book via the link below. These are affiliate links and I will take a small amount of money if you buy the book. <div><br /><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=0993340032&asins=0993340032&linkId=a0fb154ae4743ce4d71135cb9a70994b&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>x. <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bookaholics05-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=0993340032&asins=0993340032&linkId=542ea73ae427810461606905a3c48d5a&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe>x<div><div><br /></div><div><u>About Alasdair Wham</u></div></div><div><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 14pt;"><br /></span></div>Alasdair first two two novels were set in Islay and Mull (west coast of Scotland) and have proved very successful, rich in local detail with interesting plots. <br />His third novel, Devil's Cauldron, is set in Galloway which is in south-west Scotland, he likes to write about places that he knows the best. <br /><br />Before he turned to fiction, he produced a series of books exploring Scotland's lost railways, a hobby that he enjoys with his sons and that took him all over Scotland. <div><br /></div><div>Find out more:</div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.facebook.com/alasdairwham.author">Facebook</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Alasdair-Wham/e/B0034NASL6/">Amazon Author Page</a></div><div><br /></div><div>That's it for another week my Boookaholic friends. I will see you soon with another post. Until then, keep on reading and writing. </div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-19371698532139665472021-09-12T00:30:00.007+01:002021-09-20T21:39:58.335+01:00The Migrant by Paul Alkazraji - a do not miss thriller<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDktOerrSr7PwrCcGdUQbQ581-qCKANFNKE3as1ixt8FVa7AGmO_FXem5a7H5jUtkyW3Dphsv_eaRPXv98ELeP1Nl1DBUcoeDm99FVuOugo-whVLGS5J8HOIJpfqDjfhkZNaIqBRXRMg/s2048/image0.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2048" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHDktOerrSr7PwrCcGdUQbQ581-qCKANFNKE3as1ixt8FVa7AGmO_FXem5a7H5jUtkyW3Dphsv_eaRPXv98ELeP1Nl1DBUcoeDm99FVuOugo-whVLGS5J8HOIJpfqDjfhkZNaIqBRXRMg/w400-h283/image0.jpeg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Hello, Bookaholics, and welcome back as I bring you another cracking book. I did review Paul's book previously on this blog and you can check out my review <a href="https://wendyhjones-bookaholic.blogspot.com/2019/05/the-migrant-by-paul-alkazraji.html" target="_blank">here.</a> Today, I am honoured to be bringing you an exclusive extract from the book so you can find out why I loved it so much I am devoting two blogs to telling you about it. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div>Fascist populists, callous sex-traffickers and murderous mafia gangs - these were not what Pastor Jude Kilburn had expected to face when he moved to Albania. But when vulnerable 19-year-old Alban disappears from his poverty-stricken village to seek work in Greece, Jude has to undertake the perilous journey across the mountains to try and rescue him from the ruthless Athenian underworld. Accompanied by a volatile secret-service agent and a reformed gangster, Jude soon finds himself struggling to keep everyone together as personal tensions rise and violent anti-austerity riots threaten to tear them apart and undermine the mission. Caught between cynical secret police and a brutal crime syndicate, the fate of them all will be determined by a trafficked girl - but not every one will make it home. The Migrant is a tense and evocative thriller with a powerful redemptive twist.<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnWyhw5FtEIvqSmb2iOPFHsUESPaydfPJGgdHRKftA5DHU_SIdfRsf16yFkAiNbTmuVvgC8tPQvvHpeCYj2CtThYaMdahttKm4haoqEDGPT2Fn6jbtjnvvXzn5QvxfvZVMaLCLy9gidhA/s2048/image2.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="2048" data-original-width="1333" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnWyhw5FtEIvqSmb2iOPFHsUESPaydfPJGgdHRKftA5DHU_SIdfRsf16yFkAiNbTmuVvgC8tPQvvHpeCYj2CtThYaMdahttKm4haoqEDGPT2Fn6jbtjnvvXzn5QvxfvZVMaLCLy9gidhA/s320/image2.jpeg" width="208" /></a></div><p><u>Extract</u></p>It was then that Alban heard two different sounds almost at the same time. In the corner of the clearing a branch snapped. Two round eyes, low to the ground, bounded towards the plastic bags and beer cans, and the form of a large brown bear took shape in the darkness. The bear stopped when it saw them and gave a long, whining growl. Heavy running footsteps and the electronic hiss of a two-way radio came from the stone bridge. Ervin was staring wide-eyed back at Alban. Seconds later, the muscular policeman climbed up on the far edge of the clearing. The bear growled at him and rose up on its hind legs before turning and bolting back into the undergrowth. The policeman fell back out of sight.<br /><br />Alban grasped his sack and plunged into the pine trees until the branches struck his face and knocked him onto his back. Ervin suddenly stood over him looking down.<br /><br />‘Come on!’ he shouted. ‘Quickly, get going.’ Ervin lifted him by the shoulders. Alban turned and began scrambling forwards on all fours dragging his sack along with him. He could feel Ervin at his heels bumping into him. The stones, twigs and pine cones scratched his forearms and knees as he charged under the tightly interwoven lower branches. He coughed and gasped for breath as the dust came up into his face. He felt two hands grasp his ankles and he spun over to see Ervin being dragged backwards, his hold now released on him.<br /><br />‘Go – just go. Keep going,’ shouted Ervin. He saw his friend’s eyes widen as his arms flailed and grasped at the rows of trunks. He heard him cry out in pain. Alban turned to look ahead of him, and set off like some spooked forest creature, on and on until he tumbled out of the far edge and down a bank. He got to his feet and sprinted along a narrow track, up onto a rocky knoll, and jumped down into a cleft between two boulders to hide. As his panting for breath began to ease, he wiped the tears and dirt from his cheek. He listened. It was quiet. He waited and could hear no one in pursuit. He lowered his head into his hands and heaved out two sobs. Oh, Uncle Skender, he thought to himself, what have I done?<br /><br />There was little noise around him except the hum of cicadas and the far-away trickle of water. Then carrying across the still night he heard a voice shout something in Greek and a terrible shriek of pain, and fragments of phrases: ‘No, no ... please ... stop ... don’t ... dog ... you dog.’ He listened again. Ervin cried out. Alban bit his hand as he heard it and closed his eyes. He let his head hang and then he drew his hand under his nose to clean it. He lifted his face slowly, rose out of the rocky cleft and peered around. There was no one. He threw his sack over his shoulder and trod down the knoll. He walked cautiously back in the direction he had come until he found the place where he had tumbled out of the pine trees. He moved past it looking to see where the treeline went, and kept to it hoping he might circle back close to the clearing where they had been. Ten minutes later, he was following the ravine back upstream until he could make out the arch of the stone bridge ahead of him. The sound of Ervin screaming and pleading had grown louder. He winced. He crawled closer on his front up a bank and set aside his sack. He peered over the edge of the clearing and he saw his friend being held by his shirt at the neck. The policeman flung him down and kicked him. Ervin moaned and rolled over.<br /><br />Sliding back down lower, Alban closed his eyes. He thought about what he could do. He opened them and looked at his hands. They were trembling. He saw a broken branch by his side. It looked thick but dry and rotten. He stretched his hand towards it, and with the tips of his fingers pulled it closer and into his palm. He eased himself onto his back and began to breathe deeply. He saw his breath steam rise high in gusts. He looked up at the millions of stars in the clear Balkan night above him. In his field of vision the policeman suddenly entered and stood looking down on him. For a split second he saw his broad, muscular shoulders, his hair sheared close across his temples, and his eyes – yet one was odd. In fear and panic he brought the branch up into the man’s face and it smashed there into pieces. The man groped at his eyes and tumbled down the bank.<br /><br />Alban got to his feet, grabbed his sack and ran towards Ervin. He pulled him up off the ground and looked at his face. It was dark and blood-sticky.<br /><br />‘Hey, friend. Are you coming with me to Greece?’ he shouted. A grin broke across Ervin’s dazed face. Alban clutched his shirt and dragged him forwards, stumbling over the clearing. They tore down the edge of the treeline together. Soon they were running parallel to the ravine. Alban’s sack caught a branch and was snagged from his hand. He stopped to retrieve it. He looked back. The policeman was up now and coming.<br /><br />They came to a rocky hillock and bounded up it like young goats and then down the other side into a hedge of rosehip bushes. Ervin waded through them ahead lifting the long fronds aside so that they would not snap back on him. Alban, though, felt the thorns of one cut into the flesh of his shoulder and he cried out. They tumbled out of the other side onto the grass and crawled forward until they came to the edge of the land. Alban looked down. Below them was an almost sheer bank of earth falling to the rocky bed of the stream perhaps fifty metres down. He looked out over the mountains before them. The moonlight caught a row of wind turbines on a distant ridgeline. He could smell Ervin’s sweat and blood. He thought he heard the bear growl far away, but he was sure he heard a man grunt and spit. He turned to look behind them. On the top of the hillock the policeman stood against the stars. He reached his hand down to the holster on his thigh and drew out the fat, black pistol.<br /><br />‘You little dogs!’ he shouted. He mounted it across his right forearm with his left hand. Alban grabbed his friend’s arm and dragged him over the edge as two shots cracked out and echoed along the ravine.<div><br /></div><div>You can buy the books via the links below. These are affiliate links so I will receive a small amount of money if you buy. <br /><div><br /></div><div><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=B07M8XWS84&asins=B07M8XWS84&linkId=2f554be73e5ea49143f35eb5dc63391f&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bookaholics05-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B07M8XWS84&asins=B07M8XWS84&linkId=63c6094099c3e94f5942a741d121c931&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></div><div><div><br /></div><div><u>About Paul Alkazraji</u></div><div><u><br /></u></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVC_oKlmMA2BCNvtIG_glyZQ1UuPPRLIw70cRPrkLodpUiid7PWaZ8185Oop8BUmoSjqpLldp81ZwCQuQ3CW7_2piCmKsx5Nqdg9VtdnZAGIMalc8-fnr_Xtps03XrmXve1eN7ky9bP0/s2048/image1.jpeg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1366" data-original-width="2048" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVVC_oKlmMA2BCNvtIG_glyZQ1UuPPRLIw70cRPrkLodpUiid7PWaZ8185Oop8BUmoSjqpLldp81ZwCQuQ3CW7_2piCmKsx5Nqdg9VtdnZAGIMalc8-fnr_Xtps03XrmXve1eN7ky9bP0/s320/image1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><u><br /></u></div><div>Paul Alkazraji worked as a freelance journalist in the UK from the mid-nineties. His articles were published in Christianity Magazine, The Christian Herald, The Church Times, The Baptist Times and other publications. His travel articles were also published in The Independent. His first book Love Changes Everything, a collection of seven testimonies, was published by Scripture Union in 2001. His second book Heart of a Hooligan, a biography of ex-football hooligan Dave Jeal, was published by Highland Books in 2000. His third book Christ and the Kalashnikov, a biography of missionaries Ian and Caralee Loring, was published by Zondervan in 2001. From 2004 to 2010 he was editor and publisher of Ujëvarë magazine in Albania. His first novel, 'The Silencer', was published by Highland Books in 2012. His new novel, 'The Migrant', set in Albania and Athens during the austerity troubles, was published by Instant Apostle in February 2019.</div><div><br /></div><div>I hope you have enjoyed the extract and it's whet your appetite for the book as a whole. Meet me back here soon for another cracking blog post and until then, keep on reading and keep on writing. </div></div></div><div><br /></div><div>Find out more </div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://twitter.com/paul_alkazraji" target="_blank">Twitter</a></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Muthena-Paul-Alkazraji/e/B0034OJYLK/" target="_blank">Amazon Author Page</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><a href="https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5655990.Paul_Alkazraji" target="_blank">Goodreads</a><br /></div><div><br /></div><div>Thank you to Reading Between The Lines Book Tours for the opportunity to highlight this book. </div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-28848813692164422072021-08-02T17:55:00.000+01:002021-08-02T17:55:11.868+01:00Book Review: The Shetland Sea Murders by Marsali Taylor<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdUPdmygIHXA0ArRdL8O9Ah0k1FQtc_2yOZ4DPyFBAuOKL3Wpc5hucKlEbxkxA2n0vKWy13VR9jqohLtMXzLJs2AbdfMSLEB7wdzSbmULn7FIznJw9ZZweZ1UfWmTaBjEXzmOhdqYFkE/s1200/BookBrushImage-2021-8-2-17-55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjkdUPdmygIHXA0ArRdL8O9Ah0k1FQtc_2yOZ4DPyFBAuOKL3Wpc5hucKlEbxkxA2n0vKWy13VR9jqohLtMXzLJs2AbdfMSLEB7wdzSbmULn7FIznJw9ZZweZ1UfWmTaBjEXzmOhdqYFkE/w400-h209/BookBrushImage-2021-8-2-17-55.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And yet another Murder Mystery which will blow you away my Bookaholic friends. When I was offered the chance to review Marsali Taylor's latest sea based novel, I jumped at the chance. Having preciously read some of this series I knew I was in for a good read. In the latest book, Taylor has not let me down, as The Shetland Sea Murders is as good if not better than the last books. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><u>Blurb</u></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">While onboard her last chartered sailing trip of the season, Cass Lynch is awoken in the middle of the night by a Mayday call to the Shetland coastguard. A fishing vessel has become trapped on the rocks off the coast of one of the islands.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">In the days that follow, there's both a shocking murder and a baffling death. On the surface there's no link, but when Cass becomes involved it is soon clear that her life is also in danger.</span><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><br style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;" /><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;">Convinced that someone sinister is at work in these Shetland waters, Cass is determined to find and stop them. But uncovering the truth could prove to be deadly . . .</span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><u>Review</u></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Amazon Ember, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14px;">The first thing I love about this book is that Taylor does no pull any punches, she's bang straight into the action. A mayday call has </span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Amazon Ember, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14px;">Cass Lynch straight into the heart of the action. As always, Cass is a fabulous heroine and we get to find out more about her and Gavin in this book. The characterisation is sound with characters that leap off the page and engage the reader. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Amazon Ember, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Amazon Ember, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">Setting is a large part of this story, that setting being the sea. Taylor has a deep knowledge and love for the seas and this is evident in every skilfully written word. I could smell the sea, feel the swell of the boat, picture the fish landing on the fishing trawler, and feel the wind on my face. Descriptions are handled well and add to, rather than detract from the story. Talking of story, this is skilfully handled and Taylor keeps up the pace throughout. At times I found myself holding my breath. The highs and lows kept me reading and wanting to know how the story would be resolved. Whilst this is not an edge of your seat thriller, there is certainly enough action and suspense for the strongest crime </span><span style="caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-size: 14px;">aficionado.</span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Amazon Ember, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Amazon Ember, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;">I would say this is another Triumph from Marsali Taylor and I would highly recommend it for all fans of crime fiction. </span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Amazon Ember, Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></span></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pUHHQPbCN-Rz2trzekePH_HNgIbqUeXUEsTlqO7dEnEUnwtoUUAZ99MAZhATmUghgnsTaTQRPuDo5sZwCJ0hRsesxvxThcaqxeayRkBY7o3PdFCwCkiFlsoN0lvk8xrEtXlIJ7mwZO4/s1961/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1411" data-original-width="1961" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7pUHHQPbCN-Rz2trzekePH_HNgIbqUeXUEsTlqO7dEnEUnwtoUUAZ99MAZhATmUghgnsTaTQRPuDo5sZwCJ0hRsesxvxThcaqxeayRkBY7o3PdFCwCkiFlsoN0lvk8xrEtXlIJ7mwZO4/s320/image1.jpeg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Find out more</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.marsalitaylor.co.uk/">Website</a><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Shetland-Sea-Murders-gripping-chilling/dp/1472275969/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=" target="_blank">Amazon</a><p></p><p><br /></p><p>I was given a copy fo this book from the publisher in return for an honest review. At no point was I asked to provide a positive review and my review is based on my reading and enjoyment of the book. </p><p>That's it for now Bookhaolics. You'll love this one, I promise. See you soon and until then keep reading and keep writing. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="background-color: white; caret-color: rgb(51, 51, 51); color: #333333; font-family: "Amazon Ember", Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px;"><br /></span></div><p></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-91300221421606954692021-07-26T13:01:00.002+01:002021-07-26T13:01:09.029+01:00Book Review: Style and the Solitary by Miriam Drori<p> </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjufEJu17INnSaMq5ClY0Hzsu6QfOxOk65BFhqktP2bz30ZPO4MPkSFOD4Thd5cH3aZAYXnNHj_xRuzsmvAFul-PemLisrdAbjUWqmC1sTvKT5ECsSjtvM8UGDc8GfehM8ys8_kW6-81g/s1200/BookBrushImage-2021-7-26-12-3434.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjufEJu17INnSaMq5ClY0Hzsu6QfOxOk65BFhqktP2bz30ZPO4MPkSFOD4Thd5cH3aZAYXnNHj_xRuzsmvAFul-PemLisrdAbjUWqmC1sTvKT5ECsSjtvM8UGDc8GfehM8ys8_kW6-81g/w400-h209/BookBrushImage-2021-7-26-12-3434.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yet again, my Bookaholic friends, I am delighted to be kicking off a Blog Tour. This one is for <i>Style and the Solitary</i>, a cracking crime book by Miriam Dori. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 19.73px;"><br /></span></div>BLURB<br /><br />An unexpected murder. A suspect with a reason. The power of unwavering belief.<br /><br />A murder has been committed in an office in Jerusalem. That’s for sure. The rest is not as clear-cut as it might seem.<br /><br />Asaf languishes in his cell, unable to tell his story even to himself. How can he tell it to someone who elicits such fear within him?<br /><br />His colleague, Nathalie, has studied Beauty and the Beast. She understands its moral. Maybe that’s why she’s the only one who believes in Asaf, the suspect. But she’s new in the company – and in the country. Would anyone take her opinion seriously?<br /><br />She coerces her flatmates, Yarden and Tehila, into helping her investigate. As they uncover new trails, will they be able to reverse popular opinion?<br /><br />In the end, will Beauty’s belief be strong enough to waken the Beast? Or, in this case, can Style waken the Solitary?<p></p><p>Review</p><p>Having lived in Jerusalem for a year I jumped at the chance at being able to read this book as I love anything to do with Jerusalem. I also love crime fiction, so this was a no brainer. I loved the premise of the book, a retelling of beauty and the beast and was intrigued to see if it would work.</p><p>Let me reassure you straight away that it most definitely worked. From first word to last, this book is fabulous. The characters are well drawn with a lot of depth and nuances of characterisation. I found myself both drawn to them and empathising. I would say they are true to the Israeli people and culture. Asaf and Nathalie, the main characters are realistic and I found myself imaging them and their character traits, perfectly. I could genuinely feel Asaf's bewilderment, confusion and pain, and found myself wanting to take him away from it all. </p><p>Drori is a skilled wordsmith, with a real gift for writing, something which is evident in every skilful word and sentence. She uses the words to draw the reader in and to keep them reading. The pace is swift and at no point did I feel the storyline flagging; in fact, the very opposite was true. I toyed the story which tantalises and intrigues in equal measure and I genuinely wanted to know the outcome. </p><p>I could not review this without mentioning the setting, Jerusalem. Whilst setting does not play a major part in this story, what was sprinkled in was enough to give the reader a flavour and transport me back to my time living in the City.</p><p>To conclude, an excellent and well written crime novel which I would highly recommend. </p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=B08X7GG82V&asins=B08X7GG82V&linkId=cd84753df1fdff8e234a6afd5e27245e&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bookaholics05-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B08X7GG82V&asins=B08X7GG82V&linkId=33c5366c891ea5464dea6f974ae2adea&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiechklyMyEyY1NE3nWXhs4AAkSxFWamLxEhfxnWuIAteqGEdxmlPj6zjUqPp9U1FKtLr48MDcgF2IZWOD9ZH9_36v1XbYmlX8H3fCo6tedQ9p3hYGe7Gq-151E6nV_iubO7Q4JgKJf4l0/s2048/222440994_3080906068897371_5106856437751756785_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2048" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiechklyMyEyY1NE3nWXhs4AAkSxFWamLxEhfxnWuIAteqGEdxmlPj6zjUqPp9U1FKtLr48MDcgF2IZWOD9ZH9_36v1XbYmlX8H3fCo6tedQ9p3hYGe7Gq-151E6nV_iubO7Q4JgKJf4l0/w400-h283/222440994_3080906068897371_5106856437751756785_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can find out more about the author and her books via:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="http://miriamdrori.com/">website</a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/miriamdroriauthor/">Facebook</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://twitter.com/MiriamDrori">Twitter</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://www.instagram.com/miriam.drori/">Instagram</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><p>That is it for another week, Bookaholics. I will be back soon with another reading or writing blog. Until then, keep reading and keep writing. </p><p>I was given a copy of this book from the author and blog tour operator as part of the Reading Between the Lines Blog Tours. At no point was I asked to provide a positive review and my review is based on my reading of the book. The links above are affiliate links and I will receive a few pence if you buy the book via the link. </p><p><br /></p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-77995540147033878092021-07-20T15:49:00.001+01:002021-07-20T15:49:24.446+01:00Unravelling by Helen Forbes<p></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicYIaSKyws2et40YXsDlo4EDGPItQHrSXLedk2XHnWLiGtOaIN4O3sWYEb-ANToWFd6aT8eyVkmEB51a5mvnG04cNuC3XdsbOvme72m7E46quYm44JI1bSQkM1ZeRi1xYtOAiT-72H7ho/s1200/BookBrushImage924.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEicYIaSKyws2et40YXsDlo4EDGPItQHrSXLedk2XHnWLiGtOaIN4O3sWYEb-ANToWFd6aT8eyVkmEB51a5mvnG04cNuC3XdsbOvme72m7E46quYm44JI1bSQkM1ZeRi1xYtOAiT-72H7ho/w400-h209/BookBrushImage924.png" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><br />Well, my Bookaholics friends, you know I like crime books and the book I bring you today is a cracker. Seriously, I'm blown away. <i>Unravelling</i> by Helen Forbes draws you in from the first exciting sentence to the very last word. I am going to start by giving you the blurb as come context.<p></p><p>Kate Sharp’s family is a mystery. Her mother, Ellen, disappeared into the shadows of Craig Dunain psychiatric hospital when Kate was a child. When her grandmother dies, Kate is desperate for answers. What were the circumstances of her mother’s life and death? Who is her father? Kate’s not the only one trying to uncover the truth. The remains of two bodies with murderous injuries have been found buried in the forest next to the former hospital. And someone else is searching for answers, and he will stop at nothing to find them. As the tale of Ellen’s tragic unravelling unfolds, the secrets that led to her death are exposed, along with the shocking truth about Kate’s father. Unaware of the danger stalking her, Kate continues her search. Will she find the answers? And can she save her own life?<br /><br />Forbes is an outstanding wordsmith and this is apparent throughout the book. I do workshops on writing a killer first line and this first line is going to make it to the workshop as being a perfect example. I am hoping the author and publisher will forgive me but I just had to share it here. </p><p>'The sway of the noose was mesmerising against the shimmering light that danced between the branches'.<br /><br />From the minute I read that line, I was hooked and knew I just had to read on. This is writing which invites and tantalises drawing you in word by perfectly crafted word. </p><p>The tense plotline is also superb with highs and lows which had my emotions all over the place and I genuinely wanted to know the secrets that had shaped Kate's Life. Kate is a troubled character but realistic and interesting. I think the author has drawn her well and takes the reader deep inside her head an her soul. We certainly know her by the end of the book.</p><p>Page-turner may be a cliche but it certainly applies in this case. I found myself reading way past the point of a sensible bedtime as I wanted to know what happens.</p><p>Well done to the author, I am going to search out more books by her. </p><p>You can buy the book from any bookstore or from Amazon via the links below. These are affiliate links and I will receive a few pence if you purchase via the link. </p><p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-eu.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=GB&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=leafrolifblo-21&language=en_GB&marketplace=amazon&region=GB&placement=B099NCT6ZM&asins=B099NCT6ZM&linkId=fe99cd99c51b507605c3945a9ad2b5a3&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ss&ref=as_ss_li_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=bookaholics05-20&language=en_US&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B099NCT6ZM&asins=B099NCT6ZM&linkId=eded3d6801ee20834b3b0a5e9e9752aa&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true" style="height: 240px; width: 120px;"></iframe></p><p><br /></p><p>I was given a review copy of this book as part of the Reading Between the Lines Blog Tour. At no pint was I asked to provide a positive review and my review is based on my reading and enjoyment of the book. </p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqN5JbsVYfjY3T7EPav6z44GVO8w1PaeZPGrHIgHlbSC1Mqn8IoSbKua88f9qgBfwNK6yKyeQwGAbqmoU1AA9eVQVBfiEtRTeuS46HfadZe_U5NK2nI9pWTfeVjaaU9PoFyd2OM6twHx8/s2048/214213192_513774796541805_408793088536056719_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2048" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqN5JbsVYfjY3T7EPav6z44GVO8w1PaeZPGrHIgHlbSC1Mqn8IoSbKua88f9qgBfwNK6yKyeQwGAbqmoU1AA9eVQVBfiEtRTeuS46HfadZe_U5NK2nI9pWTfeVjaaU9PoFyd2OM6twHx8/w400-h283/214213192_513774796541805_408793088536056719_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"></div><p> </p>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-134048480702711100.post-55332470724491753272021-07-12T00:30:00.001+01:002021-07-12T00:30:00.193+01:00Scent of Water - Words of Comfort in Times of Grief<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E9FuUlLGAuG6hBp61lkaWv5KC6SaYRWs7QmJGmdpMpmlk3N5Kviko_BTVT6HykfIY0ijN2XL6R2Z92x0qnYDrAW6rtrmnVMrQCPkDCc247C3YJ2mvi6cXXsQ4rBQdhMahtq-08CSpyY/s1200/BookBrushImage-2021-7-11-19-99.jpg" style="display: block; padding: 1em 0px; text-align: center;"><img alt="" border="0" data-original-height="628" data-original-width="1200" height="209" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5E9FuUlLGAuG6hBp61lkaWv5KC6SaYRWs7QmJGmdpMpmlk3N5Kviko_BTVT6HykfIY0ijN2XL6R2Z92x0qnYDrAW6rtrmnVMrQCPkDCc247C3YJ2mvi6cXXsQ4rBQdhMahtq-08CSpyY/w400-h209/BookBrushImage-2021-7-11-19-99.jpg" width="400" /></a>Good morning, Bookaholics. As you know I review a variety of books on this blog but today I bring you one which will bring comfort to those who are grieving. As I write this, it is a year to the day that my cousin died suddenly, his wife having died a few days earlier. So, I write this from a place of grief myself, knowing the truth of what is contained within its pages. When I say this book is suitable to buy as a gift for anyone who is grieving, I can relate to what they re going through. Grief is not something which disappears overnight and Scent of Water acknowledges that. It does not dismiss grief but provides words to support those who are in the midst of their grief. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Penelope, herself, went through a great loss, seeing her mother being swept away by an out of control car. This plunged her into a two year period of overwhelming grief. She is honest about her feelings and shares her story at the beginning of the book. The fact that she has walked where the reader walks gives this book greater clarity, sincerity, and meaning. The book is unapologetically Christian and is, in fact aimed at the Christian market. This means that God is very squarely at the centre of every short section.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">The book is broken into sections, the first being for the special days where the loved one who has died will be missing. These include Birthday's, Christmas, and New Year. The next section contains 25 weeks of short devotionals which can be read in any order. Each has a bible verse and a short prayer, acknowledging every emotion and every stage of grief. These do not shy away from the difficult times or difficult emotions but help the reader to acknowledge them and to bring them to God in heartfelt prayer. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIcQ4pyXa8dgIdyX7AgTElYQ8U86ihFnR68VmPU0fI57C67zCrb2HLZ5z3YZuxPpVBZzsTxZUaAwJFpEQFK79u-HGwTDHS5tK2TZPgy8sI2YBtCXYDosBvNgZNNMNOlxE9gj24q3V_lU/s548/image1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="548" data-original-width="480" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhIcQ4pyXa8dgIdyX7AgTElYQ8U86ihFnR68VmPU0fI57C67zCrb2HLZ5z3YZuxPpVBZzsTxZUaAwJFpEQFK79u-HGwTDHS5tK2TZPgy8sI2YBtCXYDosBvNgZNNMNOlxE9gj24q3V_lU/w175-h200/image1.jpeg" width="175" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">This could not have been easy for the author to write; I applaud her generosity in pouring her raw feelings onto paper in order to help others. And help it will. It will allow those grieving to acknowledge their own feelings and, at the same time, will soothe like a literary balm.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I can highly recommend this book if you know anyone who is grieving. You can order copies from the authors <a href="https://penelopeswithinbank.com/books">website </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I am honoured to be kicking off the blog tour for this book. I was given a copy from the publisher in return for an honest review. At no time was I asked to provide a positive review and my review is based on my reading of the book. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQllSxbhFwhgUSNTkXtlAFYjEkXc08Uo0cSqqNl4ZiSVPmI_iDMjlRXkMYuh9ouXbLZ-UDErYtNXyUXXWy7gFsNzTzApJ6etTxFtgJK8Wixyng7byFYyqD3ZZ1o2_znduSQJ0xyJoJGU8/s2048/214346403_163922039012705_1858865265428928308_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1448" data-original-width="2048" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQllSxbhFwhgUSNTkXtlAFYjEkXc08Uo0cSqqNl4ZiSVPmI_iDMjlRXkMYuh9ouXbLZ-UDErYtNXyUXXWy7gFsNzTzApJ6etTxFtgJK8Wixyng7byFYyqD3ZZ1o2_znduSQJ0xyJoJGU8/w400-h283/214346403_163922039012705_1858865265428928308_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">That's it for another week my Bookaholic friends. See you soon and until then keep reading and keep writing.</div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br /></div>Wendy H. Joneshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04022089775887274043noreply@blogger.com0