No one Keeps a Secret by Denise Brown Blog Tour

Today is my turn on the blog tour for book "No One Keeps A Secret" by author Denise Brown, out to buy now.

No One Keeps a Secret by Denise Brown
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 4 days

Pages - 288

Publisher - Hashtag Press

Source - ARC

Blurb from Goodreads

When three teens track down a missing chihuahua to an abandoned theme park, they stumble upon a chilling discovery: a corpse, strangled by his own camera strap. The victim was meant to be 400 miles away in London, where he'd promised a lot of people a lot of money. But every one of them has a solid alibi. As Haigh, Cherry, and Sunrise get pulled into the murder investigation, they uncover mafia connections, a still-operating ghost train, and gossiping grannies, revealing their quiet village is far more dangerous than they ever imagined.


My Review

Young adult, mystery, the main characters are Haigh and Cherry, teens, told in first person point of view. Haigh's mum is dating Oz, a not very nice guy at all, the duo Haigh and Cherry become a trio when they meet Sunrise. The three end up meeting whilst chasing down a temperamental bitey chihuahua and bond over the trauma of finding a dead body, that of Oz and things go from there. Haigh has ADHD so we see snippets of that in different situations whilst trying to investigate what happened and be "the man of the house".

So there is a fair bit to unpeel in this, friendship, teen attraction, murder, investigation like the kids are on the case a bit like maybe the secret seven or something. It is super busy and sometimes, some of the elements like the ADHD could have been much more in depth. I think people will be happy to see more representation absolutely but whilst we get glimpses and moments of how Haigh lives with it they are fleeting. Also the characters are sixteen but come across so much younger at times as teens can be. So it was a bit mixed for me with the younger characters and a lot of questionable small town folk but we do love dark/shady characters.

The adults/secrets part I did like and wanted to know all of what Oz's chat was, I feel so much was touched on or hinted at but then didn't give us as much as I would have liked. If they book was chunkier and we got more backstory and depth I think I would have liked it a lot more. They do say a good author leaves you wanting more. I do feel some things came a bit left of field and I love when an author shocks you and or pulls the rug but, I don't know instead of ooooh I was a bit more oh, wait hang on, gasp. If that makes sense? I liked it, I liked I was questioning what was coming, who is a dodgy biscuit, are they just dodgy or actually bad/involved. Small village, secrets, murder, teen protagonists, kid working through some big developments/shocks with his friends and living with ADHD. It was different,this was my first time reading her, I would read her again.

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A Time of Love and Tartan by Alexander McCall Smith

A Time of Love and Tartan by Alexander McCall Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 2 days

Pages - 256

Publisher - Abacus

Source - Bought

Blurb from Amazon

The latest installment of Alexander McCall Smith's perennially popular and irresistibly charming 44 Scotland Street series.
When Pat accepts her narcissistic ex-boyfriend Bruce's invitation for coffee, she has no idea of the complications in her romantic and professional life that will follow. Meanwhile, Matthew, her boss at the art gallery, attracts the attention of the police after a misunderstanding at the local bookstore.

Whether caused by small things such as a cup of coffee and a book, or major events such as Stuart's application for promotion and his wife Irene's decision to pursue a PhD in Aberdeen, change is coming to Scotland Street. But for three seven-year-old boys--Bertie Pollock, Ranald, and Big Lou's foster son, Finlay--it also means getting a glimpse of perfect happiness.

Alexander McCall Smith's delightfully witty, wise and sometimes surreal comedy spirals out in surprising ways in this new installment, but its heart remains where it has always been, at the center of life in Edinburgh's New Town.


My Review

If you haven't read the previous books I think maybe you wouldn't enjoy it quite as much as I have. The usual we follow some of our fave characters and some of those we dislike. You do find in some of the books we see/hear more from some characters than others, for example the triplets developing/growing are a bit more in this one with Matthew and Elspeth moving home. However my main thing is wee Bertie and his dad Stuart both long suffering of Irene, she is unbearable and sucks the joy out of every room. Quite a bit of focus and development on them and I was quite happy because I feel we have been waiting for 12 books for a sniff of goodness for them, we got a wee pinch of it in this one. Bruce, whilst he doesn't feature largely in this, even his small appearances irks me, he is such a banger lol.

Such a mishmash of characters, across different ages set in Edinburgh. I often say this is like Friends but with classism, mixed ages and instead of 6 pals in each others pockets this is residents in 44 Scotland street :D and there about!

This one covers a bit of political correctness, feminism and someone having the edge in the work place and someone being disadvantaged on their gender. Whilst the books poke fun and have humour they do occasionally have serious tones or threads. So overall, for me it was a 4/5 and I bought the next in the series. I like these as a genre switch palate cleanser, wee Bertie whilst being a wean he is such a sweetheart and makes me smile.

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The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros

The Last Letter by Rebecca Yarros
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1.5 days

Pages - 426

Publisher - Penguin

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

Beckett,

If you’re reading this, well, you know the last-letter drill. You made it. I didn’t. Get off the guilt train, because I know if there was any chance you could have saved me, you would have.

I need one thing from you: get out of the army and get to Telluride.

My little sister Ella’s raising the twins alone. She’s too independent and won’t accept help easily, but she has lost our grandmother, our parents, and now me. It’s too much for anyone to endure. It’s not fair.

And here’s the kicker: there’s something else you don’t know that’s tearing her family apart. She’s going to need help.

So if I’m gone, that means I can’t be there for Ella. I can’t help them through this. But you can. So I’m begging you, as my best friend, go take care of my sister, my family.

Please don’t make her go through it alone.

Ryan


My Review

So I seen this one all over book tok and obviously I had FOMO (fear of missing out) and had to buy it. That and most of the videos/reviews were saying the book had them in tears and heartbroken, challenge accepted. I normally had a swinging brick but recently gal has had the emotionals so it is the perfect time to find out what I was missing. The book starts with a letter, yes letter format from Ella to Choas and it has the letter number (this is good because they aren't all in order). It is super easy to follow as it has the chapter/persons pov and then who the letter is from and to. Once you read the letter the person it is written to it is their surroundings and what is happening from when they put the letter down. So we get to hear from Ella in letter and meet Chaos, her brothers pal she agreed to write to. She is strong, stubborn, living in a small town with two twins she had to raise alone because the father (trust fund baby) is a complete rat! Then we get a reply letter to Ella from Chaos and then meet her and her life. Oh and we meet Chaos dog, a working dog cos he is special ops, the dog is called Havoc and we LOVE HER.

So when you read the blurb you know Ella's brother basically tells Beckett he needs to do what he can't and go look after his sister. She will be against it as she is fiercely independent but also been hurt and abandoned and or let down by the men in her life so no easy feat. Beckett didn't immediately go causing a bit of an issue and makes a huge mistake because the one thing Ella can't and won't stand for is lies, even if it comes from kindness. Beckett comes to town and regardless of what Ella says she will be there for her. Oh did I mention Beckett is also hot, mysterious, brooding and a good guy. When one of the weans becomes unwell Beckett steps up to help and together they all try to get through some of the most trying times. Strap in folks, it is an emotive rollercoaster.

So we don't do spoiler reviews and it can be a bit difficult to review without giving stuff away. So let me say this, I knew folk said it was sad, wrecked them but I went into it like, well page 4 we met the dog and I was like NOTHING BETTER HAPPEN TO THE DOG! Yes I am one of them lol. There were a few minutes when I had a lump in my throat but overall, 3 quarters through I was like yeah I am fine, sad but no tears. Then it was like the author said here hold my pint, she gripped my heart and then ripped my heart. I was up til 6am reading it to finish. I was telling my o/h about it, he really doesn't care for my nonsense and I got teary and emotional just telling it again lmao. Well played Yarros, well played, 5/5 I thought I knew it all when I was in fact Jon Snow and I knew nothing and then emotional damage. Get your munchies, tissues and a blanket or thick cardigan to wrap yourself in cos you are going to need them!

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A Cornish Legacy by Fern Britton

A Cornish Legacy by Fern Britton
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read -

Pages - 425

Publisher - Harper Collins

Source - ARC

Blurb from Goodreads (to follow)

My Review

Ahhhh I had my whole review typed and she wiped (using a Bluetooth keyboard and my phone).

The book is split into two parts, we start present day and Cordelia is heading, reluctantly, to Wilder Woo. A beautiful huge house that I am envisioning as a mansion. It holds nothing but negative memories and hurt for Cordelia. Her bestie Sammi is making her go, it is hers now and she needs to face her past.

The book deals with many themes, some sadly are fleeting and with one especially being very dark/triggering I personally don't think it needed to be in there. Some themes throughout, especially in part one are relationship heavy. Families, friendship, love and an insider look at love bombing, gaslighting and toxic love and people.

I was not a huge Cordelia fan at times but I did feel sorry for her. Part two has brought us to present day and Cordelia purging her soul by telling her aunt the truth of all that happened to her. She is still hating Wilder Woo but now we know why and Aunt Rose is determined to see the place. Part two is much more positive, healing and restoration to self and the gaff.

Set in Cornwall, a mixed bag of people with flaws, characters and some with hearts of gold. Mrs Joy was a beacon of joy, at one point I wondered if she was a ghost. She always knows what you want, what you need and shows up literally whatever thing/task is required, an actual Mary Poppins vibe. I am not sure if this is my first Fern Britton book, I did like it so overall 3.5/5 for me this time. The imagery and settings are actually so well done, perfect for sitting indoors with the horrible rain/wind and a nice fire on the go!

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Flawless by Elsie Silver

Flawless by Elsie Silver
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days

Pages - 424

Publisher -

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

The rules were simple . . .
Keep my hands off his daughter and stay out of trouble.

But now I’m stuck with her . . . And there’s only one bed . . .
Oh well, rules are made -- to be broken . . . aren't they?

I’m the face of professional bull riding -- the golden boy.
Or at least I was, until it all blew up in my face.
Now my agent says I have to clean up my image, so I’m stuck with his ball-busting daughter for the rest of the season as my “full-time supervision.”

But I don’t need a goddamn babysitter --
especially one with skin-tight jeans, a sexy smirk,
and a mouth she can’t stop running.

A mouth I just can’t stop thinking about . . .

Because Summer isn’t just another conquest.
She sees the man behind the mask, and she doesn’t run --
she pulls me closer, even when she shouldn’t.

She says this means nothing -- but I say this means everything.

She says there are boundaries we shouldn’t cross.
That my reputation can’t take any more hits -- and neither can her damaged heart.

I say I’m going to steal it anyway.


My Review

Well guys I have finally read my first cowboy book, YEEEEEHAW! Rhett is a champion bull rider, raking in the ladies, bad press, money and titles but he isn't getting any younger. When he finds himself in yet more hot water, this time costing him sponsorship his agent assigns his daughter Summer to keep him in check and help fix his rep during this next title competition. She is desperate to make a good impression to her dad as this is her first run at a job in his company but there is no denying Rhett is as hot as he is trouble!

Ok once you get past some of the cringe smut talk, like she tells him to shoosh and I was like halleluiah, shut it chatty cathy lol! I believe this could be considered enemies to lovers trope? He resents her because she is effectively a babysitter, his family rip on him because they are all boys and thats what they do. Rhett is stunning and famous so women are flinging themselves at him and buckle bunnies are a thing. I got an education as well as a spicy story!

This is book one, I assume the others are the same characters, I have bought the next three but not read them as yet. I loved the family threads and how they are with each other, the friendships, his moody brother - I hope we get more of his story. Her bestie seems like a good yin too so I am hoping the next books give us more into them.

There is spice, adult smut talk - I am sure some folk will LOVE that but a lot of that I had a riddy for him lmao. Hot and spicy, sweary, cheeky and of course cowboys/bull riding, I do feel sorry for these animals, I know it is a fiction book but sports with bulls are a real thing so heads up, 3.5 rounded up to 4 stars because I did like the relationships, family, buildup but some of the cringe chat/scenes and animal stuff took a bit of the spark off it so all round a 4 for me and I will be reading the next books.

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Love At First Sight by Laura Jane Williams

Love at First Sight by Laura Jane Williams
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 2 days

Pages - 400

Publisher - Penguin

Source - ARC

Blurb from Goodreads

She’s found the one. He’s just not the one for her.

Jessie doesn’t believe in love at first sight. Until one sunny Saturday in London, a fire alarm in Whole Foods throws her into a stranger's arms. Cal is charming and funny: their chemistry is instant.

Quick-fire flirting turns into the most romantic day of Jessie’s life. But that evening they're forced apart before swapping numbers. Jessie is devastated – has she just lost the one?

After weeks of searching, Cal turns up on her doorstop holding two dozen red roses. It feels like fate.

The only thing is, they’re not for her…


My Review

Ah Jessie, shopping when she meets Cal, both are shopping, fire alarm goes off and they end up chatting and having a pretty magical date/evening. When Cal is a hero their night is cut short, they hadn't gotten each others details and the love that could have been is cut short Jessie can't believe it. So imagine her surprise, x amount of time later Cal appears with flowers but they aren't for her and Jessie can't say anything without upturning her life.

Ooft talk about nightmare, poor Jessie cannot catch a break, her dad is dating someone her age and she isn't the nicest at all. Her would be dream man disappeared and now she wishes he had stayed gone but she can't deny she is attracted to him still but actions and consequences. Her local butcher is a dish but he is a bit of a ladies man and she can't bring herself to take him seriously. Her boss is famous, high maintenance but also mostly friendly and Jessie dotes on her wee boy but even that aspect of her life isn't clear cut and issues are at every corner.

Jessie is nice but she also ripped my knitting a fair few times, some of her choices, behaviours, actions I was like really gurl come on! Her dad I wanted to slap more than a few times too, her employer, Cal, more than half the playing cast at times lol but I am also the first to admit I am beyond irritated the now so things that may have irked me now enrage lol.

Enjoyable poolside ride or just a wee wanting to dodge your own reality for 5 minutes, that being said it does have themes of infidelity, toxic behaviours, coercion, bitching, game play, emotional blackmail, a few doosies, 3/5 for us this time.

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Frankie by Graham Norton

Frankie by Graham Norton
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1.5 days

Pages - 291

Publisher - Hodder & Stoughton

Source - Netgalley and bought

Blurb from Goodreads

Frankie Howe has lived a long life, her small flat is crammed full of art, furniture - and memories. Damian, her young carer, listens as she gradually tells him parts of her story - a story that takes us into a progressive, daring world of New York artists on the brink of fame, aspiring writers and larger-than-life characters.

Always just on the periphery, looking on, young Frankie is never quite sure enough of herself to take centre stage. But the outsider holds certain advantages, sees things others don't, can influence without drawing attention. And when the map has been lost, it's anyone's guess where you may end up, or the accidental choices you find you have made. Frankie discovers that life is not always the one we hope for, or the one others expect of us.

Travelling from post-war Ireland to the dazzling art scene of 1960s New York by way of London, Frankie is an immersive, decade-sweeping novel about love, bravery and what it means to live a significant life.


My Review

Damien is a carer and a bit adrift in his life when he gets called on for a job to look after an elderly lady who has hurt her leg and needs some care. Meet Frankie, her bestie Nor has arranged Damien to come and care for her during recovery and Frankie is spicy, fiercely independent and not amused. However with Damien staying over and a lot of hours to get through together Frankie starts to warm up and tell Damien about her life, she is the main character dahling. The book bounces between present day, elderly Frankie and going back to her early years and how we got to present day.

Ooft guys, there is a few emotionals so buckle up. I just wanted to hug Frankie, especially when we go back in time to young Frankie. She is so innocent, sweet and gets a bit of a shady hand dealt, we go from teen, to her first marriage and going from one situation to another, friendships, relationships, making her way in the world. She is one of those people you could just listen to their stories over and over, with Norton he draws us into her world so we can "live" it with her.

The book explores different themes and as I said emotive with it, coming of age, loss, love, LGB, AIDS, personal growth and woven with emotive scenes, like I said I wanted to hug Frankie, bless her. Whilst I loved it the last quarter went so fast and I wasn't ready to end the story and felt it came quite quickly, dare I say rushed. I would have loved another 100 pages, uck I could have kept reading to be honest, I really liked Frankie and escaping my reality to envelope in hers for a wee while, 4/5.

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The Family by Mandasue Heller

The Family by Mandasue Heller
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 356

Publisher - Orion

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

HER BOYFRIEND'S A DREAM. HIS FAMILY'S A NIGHTMARE.
Since her mother died of an overdose, kind-hearted Cheryl's always had to look out for herself. Until Dale Moran walks into her life.

Dale and his family have just bought the house across the street, and within a day, he's chased off the violent thugs who've been threatening Cheryl for her ex-boyfriend's debts.

Dale is devastatingly handsome and a fierce protector. It's no wonder Cheryl falls fast and hard. But when Cheryl finally meets the family; when she notices that they go quiet as she enters rooms; when she hears gunshots in the middle of the night on their estate, she has to wonder whether her new romance has taken her out of the frying pan and into the fire...

Cheryl's not sure how wrapped up Dale is in his family's secrets. But she's certain of one The Morans are hiding something. And unfortunately for Cheryl, finding the truth could mean losing her life...


My Review

Cheryl is having a time of it, trying to dodge the thugs who are pressing her for cash her ex owes, a best friend who is a shady biscuit can anything ever go right? Well when handsome Dale scares off the thugs and lets Cheryl know he has no interest in her pal well spark fly. Cheryl feels she has landed on her feet, Dale is head over heels, his mum loves her, his sister in law is a cold fish and clearly doesn't like her. Things are moving super fast but is Dale what he seems to be or has Cheryl jumped from the frying pan into the fire?

Well this book has some really bad shady characters, lots of dealings in the underworld and sweet Cheryl has no idea what is in store. We see some of the darkest sides of humanity, people who do not care for anything or anyone bar themselves and everyone has a price.

Whilst Cheryl is sweet she really irritated me at times, like some of her choices and that best pal needed to go in the bin, pals like that who needs enemies. I so wanted Cheryl to be strong but often she was so blinkered I could have screamed and or her trust in people I was like GIRL COME ON but the book keeps you hooked. You absolutely wanted to know what was coming next, will X get their comeuppance, will Cheryl find a backbone and can we actually trust anyone! Drugs, murder, manipulation, SA, some really dark stuff, coercion and much more, 4/5.

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Forgotten Child by Katie Flynn

Forgotten Child by Katie Flynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - in and out over two days

Pages - 395

Publisher - Penguin books

Source - Review copy

Blurb from Goodreads

From Sunday Times bestselling author Katie Flynn, Forgotten Child is a heartbreaking, uplifting and totally transporting novel to curl up with by the fire.

Scotland, 1940: Isla Donaghue is just sixteen when her mother dies, and her idyllic life comes to an abrupt end. Unable to cope, Isla’s father sends her to the poorhouse when he joins the merchant navy.

Horrified at the harsh conditions of the poorhouse, Isla is determined to escape. Enlisting the help of her newfound friends Meg and Sophie, she devises a plan to flee to Liverpool.

Despite the difficulties of her new life and the dangers of the Luftwaffe, Isla falls in love for the first time. But her beau is not all that he seems… Will true love prevail or will secrets from the past put an end to their happiness?

Why readers love Katie Flynn...

'Takes you on a journey of heartbreak and joy'
'Hard to put down'
'Her characters are like old friends'
'Heartwarming romance'


My Review

Poor wee Isla, Scotland 1940 and she has had heartbreak (of the family loss kind) and now her da is taking her to a poor house. Isla is in for some cruelty and coldness but Isla is a plucky wee thing and makes a daring plan to break free. This is set during the war and as the girls leave one perilous environment they have to face the threats of war and matters of the heart.

Scotland and Liverpool, could you ask for two better places! Now this is a standalone and I have read a few of Flynn's books and I recognised a name or two from a previous book, I LOVE crossovers. It makes me want to buy up all the back ones and read them in order and of course hope she keeps the next one(s) in the same vein.

We find love, friendship, loss, betrayal and see the story of strength, personal growth, a splash of romance and the past catching up with the present. Skulduggery and shady characters as well as folk with hearts of gold and courage/strength. I think with these books the reason they are so good, not just how they are written obviously but you can slip from your own reality into theirs. Drama, abuse of power, harm to others and I do love a headstrong character who looks out for others, Isla is a fave for sure, 4/5 from us this time, roll on the next please!

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The Snow Song by Sally Gardner

The Snow Song by Sally Gardner
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 384

Publisher - HQ Stories

Source - Gave to by a fellow blogger

Blurb from Goodreads

Women imprisoned by superstition, chained by guilt.

Perched on a mountain in a land of ancient forests is a village, rife with secrets. Cut off from the outside world it is run by the elders, men to whom tradition is all.

Edith lives alone with her alcoholic father who is forcing her to marry the village butcher. But she is in love with a shepherd who promised to return to her.

As the village becomes isolated in a sea of snow, Edith loses her power of speech. And it is this enchantment that will have far-reaching consequences, not only for Edith but for the whole village.


My Review

A cult like village, men are the be all and end all, money, fear and power rule the town. When Edith meets the love of her life, an outsider Shepherd she is willing to risk it all. An agreement is made, if he returns she can marry him, if he doesn't she WILL marry the power wielding cruel older butcher as promised by her alcoholic dad. As the small village is cut off and snowed in, Edith is forced to follow tradition, that which is expected of her. She loses her voice as her enforced wedding day looms and it seems everyone is hell bent on tradition and what it demands rather than Edith or what is right.

Guys, I haven't read a book quite like this, it has stories from "gypsy" traveller folk tales, told by the Shepherd or Edith as she heard them from her elder female relative. Some of the stories within the book itself have very fairytale style vibes. We have horrific abusive male characters that will enrage you by the way they treat and think of women. I did like how none of them had names but rather labelled by their professions. The female characters also provoke angry responses too and I would have liked to have slapped and shook some but we also see some personal growth, some!

The book is thought provoking, enchanting at times, dare I say almost magical at some points, not like Harry Potter type but more the stuff in fairytales, evil, good, shady questionable humans and their behaviours. How a strong female can make such a change/impact but also the old saying it takes a village to raise a child well this village shows just how bad things can be/accepted hence the almost cult like reference. Women subservient to males, except the Shepherd, he is such a nice and good soul, women being treated badly, used even by their so called loved ones, actions and consequences, it is a mixed bag. I think some people could take it to a really deep level, I was absorbed by it and a bit of rollercoaster of emotions, 4/5.

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I Will Ruin You by Linwood Barclay

Today we have our review (non spoiler as always). Book blurb read out loud if you prefer than reading from the text. I also have captions as some folk struggle with my Scottish accent (I do slow it down and enunciate when reading the blurbs resulting in a poshy accent apparently lol shhh Laura). Click HERE for the book blurb to be read to ya.

Here is our non spoiler review, enjoy, perfect for reading anytime, we curled up with a blanket or duvet because it is freezing here.


I Will Ruin You by Linwood Barclay
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1.5 days

Pages - 341

Publisher - HQ Stories

Source - Review copy

Blurb from Goodreads

In the latest novel from New York Times bestselling author Linwood Barclay, a teacher’s act of heroism inadvertently makes him the target of a dangerous blackmailer who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.

How would you react in a life-or-death situation?

It’s a question everyone asks themselves, but few have to face in real life. English teacher Richard Boyle certainly never thought he would find himself talking down a former student intent on harming others, but when Mark LeDrew shows up at Richard’s school with a bomb strapped to his chest, Richard immediately jumps into action. Thanks to some quick thinking, he averts a major tragedy and is hailed as a hero, but not all the attention focused on him is positive.

Richard’s brief moment in the spotlight puts him in the sights of a deranged blackmailer with a score to settle. The situation rapidly spirals out of control, drawing Richard into a fraught web of salacious accusations and deadly secrets. As he tries to uncover the truth he discovers that there’s something deeply wrong in the town—something that ties together Mark, the blackmailer, and a gang of ruthless drug dealers, and Richard has landed smack in the middle of it. He’s desperate to find a way out, but everyone in his life seems to be hiding something, and trusting the wrong person could cost him everything he loves.

What price will he pay for one good deed?


My Review

Ooft the opening chapter, an ex pupil comes to his old school with a bomb, teacher Richard Boyle goes directly to the threat and ends up making the news in their wee town. Despite Richard being the hero of the hour he soon finds himself in a situation of blackmail, something that could ruin not just his career, his life but everything he holds dear. Buckle in folks you are about to go on a wild ride!

The chapters are short (we LOVE that) and they switch between Richard and untitled but they basically focus on the other characters and back and forth. There is so much going on, Richards family life and responding to how he put himself in harms way and everything that follows. The people blackmailing Richard and their chaotic lives but also the people involved in their dodgy dealings. The other one being Marta, Richard's sister in law who is a cop and the interlinked between her investigation and things that bring crossover to her sister and Richard.

It is absolutely a thriller, page turner and does have some themes that folk may find triggering, drugs, sa mentioned, murder, violence, blackmail, relationship issues, investigation its a whole mixed bag. Despite going between characters it all flows well and has good pace, it has been a wee while since we read Barclay and we do have others on the tbrm. Perfect when you just want to escape reality and absorb into a whole world of choas, 4.5/5 for us. This is a standalone just make sure when you pick it up your day is clear because you are going to want to devour it!

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The Wedding Dress Repair Shop by Trisha Ashley

The Wedding Dress Repair Shop by Trisha Ashley
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days

Pages - 400

Publisher - Bantam press

Source - Review copy

Blurb from Goodreads

Can her heart be mended too? Garland Fairford has her dream job as a historical Costumier in London and is engaged to a handsome and successful playwright, Marco. Whilst working on an exhibition of dresses owned by a Victorian actress, Garland meets a long-lost relative - Honey Fairford. Garland, an orphan, is delighted, and intrigued to discover Honey is planning to open a wedding dress museum in Lancashire. When Garland loses her fiancé e and her job in the same week, she is excited to accept Honey's offer to work at the museum. Escaping London, and her old life, Garland is then shocked to be confronted with a ghost from her past - Thom. As Garland starts to repair the beautiful vintage wedding dresses for the museum, as well as her relationship with Thom, could this finally be the chance for her own happy-ever-after?


My Review

Duo timeline, present day with Garland a historical costumier her self absorbed fiancé who is a playwright and fixated on his new play. Honey is a very successful author who happens to be related to Garland and of course Marco wants to exploit that. We hate Marco! Anyway something kicks off and Garland ends up losing her job and taking up Honey's offer, to work at her new museum. What museum I hear you ask? Only one prompted by Honey's own story and links in with her new book. Wedding dresses of brides that didn't have their happy ever after and Garland will be repairing and restoring the dresses, collating their stories and sorting the displays. Asif Garland's life isn't turned upside down enough - when she flees to the small town she is faced with something from her past that pulls the rug out from under her.

Oooft Garland fair goes on a journey, did I say we hate Marco? He is narcissistic, self obsessed, inflated ego and just an absolute banger we do not like him. The book flips between present day and back to the past, diary format, of the original wearer of the dress Garland was working on before everything kicked off.

Little dramas, relationships, secrets, lies and a beautiful wee scene stealer in the form of an old judgey cat, I absolutely love him. Overall it isn't a book I would have picked up myself but I am so glad I got it sent because I really enjoyed it. Despite it having a fair few characters/scene switches it flows well and I really enjoyed it - I think this was possibly my first by this author, it won't be my last 4/5.

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The Baby Trail by Sinead Moriarty

The Baby Trail by Sinéad Moriarty
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 320

Publisher - Atria

Source - Friend gave me it

Blurb from Goodreads

Makeup artist Emma Hamilton is thirty-three when she and her husband James decide it's time to start a family. She has it all mapped out: Go off the pill in December, have sex, get pregnant by January, have the baby in September. With the help of a personal trainer, she figures she'll be back to her fighting weight in time for Christmas. But when three months of candle-scented sex fails to produce the desired result, Emma decides that maybe Mother Nature needs a helping hand.

Soon her life is a roller coaster of post-coital handstands (you can't argue with gravity), hormone-inducing (sanity-reducing!) drugs, and a veritable army of probing specialists (torturers, more like). It's out with alcohol and spontaneous sex, in with green tea and ovulation kits. Emma and James try everything from fertility drugs to in vitro, but all their carefully laid plans seem to go south -- along with Emma's rapidly plummeting self-esteem.

The members of her support team are unquestionably loyal, but distracted by their own personal dramas. There's Babs, her younger sister, who prescribes Emma half an Ecstasy pill to treat her depression. Her friend Jess is pregnant with her second child and gives Emma an earful about the downside of motherhood. The glamorous Lucy, Emma's closest pal, fears she might be stuck in her "single rut" forever -- that is, until she meets Donal, a rough-around-the-edges rugby player who passes out on their first date but quickly proves that he is worth a second chance. And last, but certainly not least, is James, Emma's rugby coach husband, who quite unhelpfully manages to give himself a groin injury just when she is ovulating.

But just when Emma feels as if her obsession may have alienated all of her loved ones, including James, events take a ninety-degree turn that will have unforeseen consequences for everyone.


My Review

Meet Emma, thirty three, Irish, happily married to an English guy and the time is right to have a baby. All seems straight forward but as the months go by and still no pregnancy Emma gets more erratic and obsessed. Her bestie is desperate for a date, her other pal has a baby and healthy sex life and Emma is getting it from all areas as her biological clock is ticking as folk like to keep pointing out.

I can't say I loved Emma, she is funny and God knows I felt heart sorry for her as she goes longer and longer unable to get pregnant. Before hormones take over and everything else she does say and do some questionable stuff. I did laugh out loud at some of her besties experiences with the rugby player and their date(s) and or aftermath.

The book deals with emotive and serious subjects infused with humour and showing just how much a woman goes through when conceiving doesn't come naturally. Easy enough for a wee poolside read, I think this was my first time reading this author, it wouldn't be the last. I think if you have struggled with pregnancy/conceiving this book with either resonate or maybe just be a wee bit too close to home, 3/5 from us.

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A Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J Maas

A ​Court of Silver Flames by Sarah J. Maas
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 3 days

Pages - 757

Publisher - Bloomsbury Publisher

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

Nesta Archeron has always been prickly-proud, swift to anger, and slow to forgive. And ever since being forced into the Cauldron and becoming High Fae against her will, she's struggled to find a place for herself within the strange, deadly world she inhabits. Worse, she can't seem to move past the horrors of the war with Hybern and all she lost in it.

The one person who ignites her temper more than any other is Cassian, the battle-scarred warrior whose position in Rhysand and Feyre's Night Court keeps him constantly in Nesta's orbit. But her temper isn't the only thing Cassian ignites. The fire between them is undeniable, and only burns hotter as they are forced into close quarters with each other.

Meanwhile, the treacherous human queens who returned to the Continent during the last war have forged a dangerous new alliance, threatening the fragile peace that has settled over the realms. And the key to halting them might very well rely on Cassian and Nesta facing their haunting pasts.

Against the sweeping backdrop of a world seared by war and plagued with uncertainty, Nesta and Cassian battle monsters from within and without as they search for acceptance-and healing-in each other's arms.


My Review

This book is hugely Nesta's story - don't get me wrong the others do feature especially Cassian but mainly they two. If you haven't read the previous four please do, you get much more out of them and clarity of the situation and characters. Nesta has been on a path of self destruction, time for intervention is here and man is she raging! Forced by Feyre she now lives in the house that is 10,000 steps back to the village and she can't winnow in and out so is completely at the mercy of the others. Cassian is to train her, no alcohol is allowed and Nesta is furious. Furious and self loathing from what previously transpired and ptsd, clearly there is a spark with Cassian but Nesta refuses to acknowledge anything, remaining on her path of self destruction.

If you aren't familiar with the books well there is a lot of spice AND body fluids, man do they love their fluids so you have been warned lol! Nesta really ripped my knittin and I know some will relate to the self destructive behaviour but she really is her own worst enemy at times and has a spiteful mouth on her! That being said I did warm a wee bit to her, she has been through a lot and loathes herself so has more than a few chips on her shoulder.

The whole will they won't they, reluctance to do anything and slowly dealing with her own issues, making acquaintances and dare I say, friends, Nesta thinks she isn't entitled to anything good so it is quite the journey. Can we please talk about the house, I LOVE that house, I have always had a thing about magical houses, furniture/objects with any kind of brain power, personality AND magic, I blame Beauty and the beast, Bedknobs and broomsticks etc and fling in a love of books, I was hooked.

There is a lot of sexism, predatory behaviour from some of the males in the book, referred to traumas females have suffered/survived from males. I loved how brave the library ladies are and as much as Nesta royally annoyed me for probably three quarters of the book she also made me laugh with some of her sass, exasperated by her self sabotage and spiteful tongue but she also has some metal. 4.5/5 for me, this was my first series by this author - I am sure I have at least one other book by her, not sure which series or number but will absolutely be reading her again!

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The Marriage Act by John Marrs

The Marriage Act by John Marrs
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1.5 days

Pages - 432

Publisher - Pan MacMillan

Source - Netgalley & bought

Blurb from Goodreads

Britain. The near-future. A right-wing government believes it has the answer to society’s ills — the Sanctity of Marriage Act, which actively encourages marriage as the norm, punishing those who choose to remain single.

But four couples are about to discover just how impossible relationships can be when the government is monitoring every aspect of our personal lives — monitoring every word, every minor disagreement — and will use every tool in its arsenal to ensure everyone will love, honor and obey.


My Review

We really like Marrs books and I had put this one off for a bit because of the whole government/Act even though that is the premise for the book. That part put me off as I don't usually do politics (although I have taken more of an interest as I get older) and the whole idea of it & being a Marrs I picked it up. He has a knack for writing characters you want more of (whether you like them or not) and writing about subjects you normally wouldn't be drawn to. The characters though, how he writes them and draws you in you get interested and invested where you struggle to put them down, same case here.

The Marriage Act is set in place by the government where you get all kinds of benefits for signing up, better homes, better perks, healthcare, you have all the mod cons that periodically record in your home. If they pick up issues in your marriage you get put on a level one and a relationship adviser type comes to your home. They help or you can go to next level, if things go bad it can end up going to court and you getting divorced whether you want it or not. Whilst the Marriage Act brings many good things it can also bring a lot of unhappiness if you end up on the wrong side.

The book centres around a few main characters, Roxi - obsessed with social media and finally finding her niche to be an influencer and getting the buzz online that makes up for the dullness of wife and motherhood. Jeremy - when you are highlighted as having relationship issues you are assigned a counsellor type, relationship responder - that is Jeremy but dear Jeremy isn't exactly what he seems and has his own interests at heart rather than yours. Anthony works for the man, a government employee who sees things us wee folks aren't meant to and is growing a conscience the more he is tasked to do. Corrine is part of a movement against the government and the unfairness of The Marriage Act and wants people held accountable. And lastly Arthur, elderly, happily married to June, age brings its own problems and Arthur is very aware they are being flagged for review, the last thing he wants. Because even though him and June are happy, the government also have things in place for partners who are dependent and June is fine she is just forgetful. The government has things in place for all issues in marriage, ailments, if a partner becomes a dependent or drain on society and Arthur doesn't want them coming to his home assessing them.

Oooft guys, so most of us have Alexa's, smart watches, laptops etc and in a similar fashion the Government use these to make sure marriages are happy, healthy and compatible. They can and do put tips to you via your devices and any issues you go onto the level 1. As much as the Marriage Act gives positives and financial benefits, as the book goes on we see just how bad things can be. If you go against the government, if you get a little power, what happens when things are threatened or removed.

It has very dystopian vibes but the truly scary thing is it isn't too far a stretch to seeing this happen. We already see people obsessed with social media, followers, the power of influencers and how some folk do abandon or put their social media above their family and actual real life.

The book has some real shady horrible characters, like jaw dropping at some points because dear lord what is wrong with these folks! However it only shone a light on just how lovely Arthur was, uck Arthur was a total scone and my absolute fave character in this one.

I also love that Marrs has nods to his other storylines in this, I LOVE reading Master King's books and when that happens being delighted. Same happening in this one and it is no mean feet to be fair. I think I have a couple of Marrs to catch up on and I will be firing them up the tbrm, even when your brain is toast and struggling to read I still managed to envelope myself in this, 4.5/5.

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This One Life by Amanda Prowse

This One Life by Amanda Prowse
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 364

Publisher - Lake Union Publishing

Source - ARC

Blurb from Goodreads

She wants it all. But life has other plans…

After years of hard work, Madeleine’s life is very nearly perfect. She’s about to move to LA to pursue her dream job—and there’s a new man on the scene too. But when her mother falls ill, pulling her back to the world she’s tried so hard to leave behind, the repercussions of a life-changing decision Madeleine made seven years ago resurface, threatening to jeopardise everything she’s worked for.

Faced with the promise of her new life, and the pull of her old, she has to ask herself some tough was what she did then right for her family? How do you know when it’s okay to put yourself first? And what’s the cost of happiness?

Heartfelt, provocative and emotional, this is a gripping look at the choices women have to make, and whether we really can have it all…


My Review

Then and now, we meet Madeline, successful, driven, very particular about how she likes things, her home is pristine/perfect and her job is pretty much everything. When her mum takes unwell Madeline needs to go home and that means back to the place she spent her whole life wanting to escape from. We flip between present day and the past, getting to know Madeline, what makes her the way she is and seeing her struggle going back to her hometown, her past and things she would much rather forget.

Oh I think this may well be a marmite book for some because Madeline is the antithesis of what society expects she should be. Prowse has carved a character who if she was male, not too many eyebrows would be raised but because she is a female backs will absolutely be raised. She isn't the most likeable either, is it because she is selfish (because I think it is safe to say she is), driven, career focused, quite cold too. There is a moment, back in the then, between her and her friend and wow, I gasped out loud. Friends is family for me and ooft some of Madeline's choices and actions are shocking, again because we don't do certain things/cross certain lines/say certain things.

Madeline's family are so lovely, they don't have a lot financially and struggled a bit when she was growing up which is largely why she is the way she is. The contrast between to two timelines and Madeline's life to her life then and her parent's still living that way. Family, relationships and ambition are integral to the story, there are a lot of emotional moments and likely triggers because of some of the themes within the book. I know that is vague but to mention them would be spoilers and we don't do spoilers here.

I think if you grew up with financial difficulties the book might hit a wee bit differently to someone who has never had money worries or grew up in that type of environment. I also think how you respond to Madeline will again depend on how your financials were/are.

I really liked it, a lot of food for thought and although I did not like Madeline nor a lot of her choices, I get it. The book is a lot of actions/consequences and the ripples they can have not just on the person but everyone around them. I think the reason we like Prowse's stories so much is it lets you escape your life for a wee bit and delve into others. Whether you like the characters or not you become invested and encapsulated quickly even if the story starts as a slow burner, 4/5. Out to buy Jan 7th 2025.

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The Winter Runaway by Katie Flynn Blog Tour

Today is my stop on the blog tour for newly released "The Winter Runaway" by Katie Flynn, for my stop I have my review, enjoy. The book is out to buy tomorrow 24th of October, Amazon UK link HERE.

The Winter Runaway by Katie Flynn
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 401

Publisher - Penguin

Source - ARC

Blurb from Goodreads

*The first installment in the brand new Runaway's series from the Sunday Times bestselling author

Tammy and her mother, Grace, are desperate to escape Tammy’s violent bully of a father. But when an unforeseen tragedy strikes, mother and daughter must flee Scotland in the dead of night.

To survive the severest of penalties, they leave behind everything they know and love – including one another.

Under new identities, Tammy and Grace must start afresh. Tammy joins the services and there she meets a dashing officer who begins to break her guard down.

But can the course of true love ever run smooth with Tammy unable to reveal her true self?



My Review

First thing I need to say guys is this one opens with domestic violence (DV), violence within a family setting and the far reach of the consequences throughout the book. Tammy and her mum Grace have been terrorised by Tammy's dad, Grace's husband since as long as they can remember. Alcohol abuse, psychological and physical abuse, the man is an absolute disgrace of a human being. When one night things go to far the women flee toward Scotland, setting them on a separate path, trying to heal their wounds and constantly looking over their shoulders.

The book starts with the horrific scene of DV then flips to three months earlier and gives us a frank look into the ladies daily life. Then we go to the after, Grace and Tammy trying to get through the day whilst the war is going on mind you and the paths each has chosen. Tammy falls into hers and enlists to do her part for the war, Grace finally has some freedom and finds herself helping other woman escaping bad situations and embracing her talent. With the promise of meeting up again both Grace and Tammy do what they need to to survive.

The book bounces about a wee bit but it is done well enough that it isn't distracting and the stories flow well. Tammy ran leaving her love behind Rory so we hear from him and about Tammy's dads antics, the war happening around them. Grace finding her own feet and independence after being beaten down for so long and Tammy with a few white lies has found herself a new bestie and both volunteer to help in the war effort taking them both on new paths. Their lies and lives they have escaped have brought them together and the book very much takes us along actions/consequences, how far lasting/reaching they can be.

Relationships is hugely centric in this one, mother and daughter, husband and wife, first loves, friendship and the attitudes between ranking officers in the army which I thought was pretty interesting. That and how snotty some attitudes are also to women and how they treat them!

It is a really good read to just sink into and forget your own life for a wee bit, set in perilous times, war, poverty, danger from your own loved ones, personal growth and strength once you find the courage to leave (DV). Again this really struck a chord with me, I think it depends on your background, life experiences but this one did pack a bit of a punch and pull some emotionals from me, 4/5.

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Dancing in the Dark by Maureen Lee

Dancing in the Dark by Maureen Lee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 448

Publisher - Orion books

Source -

Blurb from Goodreads

A brilliantly compelling Liverpool saga following the lives of two women - three generations apart.

Millie Cameron is not at all pleased when she finds herself obliged to sort through the belongings of her aunt Flo, who has recently died. She hardly knew her aunt and besides, she has her own career to think about. But when she arrives at Flo's basement flat, Millie's interest is awakened.

As she sorts through her aunt's collection of photographs, letters and newspaper cuttings she finds herself embarking on a journey - a journey to a past which includes a lost lover and a secret child.

Picking through the tangled web of Flo's life, Millie makes the startling discovery that all the threads lead to herself...


My Review

First thing to say guys is the book features domestic abuse & violence towards children, not overly graphic as some books. The opening chapter is from the wean's point of view as they know what is coming, whilst it isn't gratuitous or depth of details, Lee writes the character's fear & words so authentically it is just worth an fyi. It reverts back to and has lasting reach as the children are adults, one being the main character and it has shaped how she is as an adult, her issues with relationships and letting anyone get close. Now, from nowhere she finds out her estranged auntie has died and she has to go and sort her house and belongings. What starts off as a reluctant chore soon becomes life changing for Millie. We flip from present with Millie to the past with Flo and learn about her life, mixed in and happening during war time.

Whilst the characters are overly loveable and warming, Millie does go through quite the journey of personal growth and finding herself by learning about her aunt. There are some very shady decisions/behaviours/relationships throughout and my God I wanted to slap a few people. The book deals with some dark topics and unsavoury, infidelity, domestic abuse, manipulation, unwed mother and what can happen (this was actually really sad) and how choices of the past can last throughout your whole life. It is hard to give too much heads up as we don't do spoilers and we would be venturing into that if we go further.

I liked Flo, she had a bit of a unique way of thinking especially when she decides what she can do to help the war! I liked her though, she got taken advantage of, people who should have been there for her weren't and she got done dirty more than once, I would have liked to have hugged her, poor soul.

It is a book centred heavily on family, family dynamics, relationships, secrets, lies cause and effect to name but a few. This is my second read by Lee and I have I think six more on the tbrm, if you want to leave you life for a little while and get caught up in la scandalosa of others this is for you, 4/5.

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Bertie's Guide to Life and Mothers by Alexander McCall Smith

Bertie's Guide to Life and Mothers by Alexander McCall Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - 1 day

Pages - 295

Publisher - Abacus

Source - Bought

Blurb from Goodreads

It's not that poor Bertie Pollock is wishing his life away, but having anticipated his 7th birthday for so long he's now longing to be 18. But there's a lot of living to do and Bertie isn't alone amongst the residents of Scotland Street in trying to do just that - with mixed fortunes.


My Review


Aw wee Bertie, all he wants it to be a little boy and do all the things wee boys get to to but his mum, Irene is a total nightmare. Bertie is smart there is no denying it but Irene has him enrolled in activities she is interested in rather than the wean. Even what he wears, gifts nothing is really with him in mind but it is done with comedic turns on it. Well finally Bertie gets a wee bit of freedom in this book and Irene papped out the picture for a little while (I am looking forward to the next book to see how that plays out).

The series focuses on the characters that live in 44 Scotland street, their daily troubles/activities/interactions and of course Cyril the dog with the gold tooth. This book is more Bertie centric and we finally see him getting that most coveted gift that every wee boy wants. If you haven't read the other book I don't know if you would get as much out of this one, I actually really liked this because I have invested in the others and know all of what they have went though up to this point.

Antonia is back for a visit and has a nun with her, I forgot how pompous she is but it brings another flavour and the nun, whilst only in small parts blended well, you do feel for Angus and Domenica. You do laugh and snigger at these books, it is absolutely like a soap opera or I often say like Friends but an across the range of ages, Bertie and his wee school classmates, Bruce the beautiful narcissist, Pat has a love interest - will this one turn out better than her past escapades. Matthew the triplets, au pairs dramas, is Big Lou finally getting a happy ever after or more dramas.

Very easy reads and I do look forward to seeing what they group are up to next, whilst we do see/hear from all the characters some are more focused on in each book, this one is Bertie's time to shine, 4/5. I have already ordered the next book in the series.

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A Mother's Struggle by Kitty Neale

A Mother's Struggle by Kitty Neale
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Time taken to read - < 1 day

Pages - 378

Publisher - Avon books

Source - RAK/fairy

Blurb from Goodreads

When Pearl's ex-husband Kevin was sent to prison she left her old life in Battersea behind, determined to protect her son from the truth about his father. But when her dear friend Bessie dies, she is forced to return to the one place she'd rather forget.

While Pearl makes plans to take over Bessie's shop, Kevin is released from jail and begins to swindle his parents for money. Once he gets what he wants, he'll soon be after his child.

Pearl will do whatever it takes to keep her boy out of his father's reach - but will it be enough?



My Review

We have read a fair few of Neale's books so I could have sworn I recognised the characters and maybe they do pop up in the other books as passing characters. I checked and according to Fantasticfiction it is a standalone and previously published under another name. Anyways, Pearl left Battersea after things had gone wrong for her and it is a small town and scandal tends to follow you forever, noone forgets. When circumstances mean Pearl, her husband and kid have to go back she knows she can't keep the past from her child, much as she wants to protect him. Especially when his biological father, Kevin, a wrong yin, is getting out of jail and towns folk gossip. Kevin protrays himself as a man of God now, changed and willing to mend his ways but not only has Kevin not changed but he has plans that will forever change all of their lives.

Ooooh guys, the things with these books are we get characters who, love or hate them, you can't stop reading. Kevin's mum has issues with her mental health and she is also quite a devious woman whose no.1 priority is her angel of a son. The things that she will say and do is nothing short of wicked and she isn't the only one who is shady. We also meet some violent men who have money, muscle, weapons and will do what they need to to protect what they feel is theirs.

Violence, death, threats, secrets, lies, poisoned tongued people ooft it is a mixed bag or questionable morals, aggression and choices that affect not just the people making them. We also see the good side of people and I think that is why it is so easy to loose yourself in this type of book. You have the mundane every day issues/things/small town setting/gossip but then the darker side, manipulation, threats, aggression, violence etc. We have read a few of Neale's and have some more on our TBRM and will eventually get the whole back catalogue, 4/5 for us this time.

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