A New York Christmas (Christmas Novellas 12) - Anne Perry

Thomas Pitt's daughter Jemima, now a young woman, leads the cast of Anne Perry's enthralling festive mystery. In New York, at the turn of the century, where new American money and old English aristocracy collide, a young bride's secret past could destroy her future. Jemima, in America as a chaperone until her friend's wedding, is instead drawn into the crisis, and must decide whom to trust, and how to thread her way through the dangerous streets of this cold, brash new city.

What did I think?

This was a very quick read and wasn’t at all what I expected; it didn’t really have much to do with New York or indeed Christmas.  I suppose, putting the title aside, it wasn’t a bad little story.  There is a little twist, although it was a very easily guessable ‘whodunit’.

I haven’t read any of Anne Perry’s books before so I am not familiar with her Thomas Pitt series.  In this book, Thomas’ daughter, Jemima, is escorting her friend, Delphinia, to New York to be married into the wealthy and powerful Albright family.  Delphinia has a skeleton in her closet that puts her impending marriage in jeopardy – the mother she thought was dead is alive and well, and is living in New York with a questionable reputation.  If Delphinia’s mother, Maria, attends the wedding, Delphinia will be shamed.

Jemima agrees to visit Maria with Harley Albright, who is Delphinia’s future brother-in-law, to ask her to stay away from the wedding.  When Jemima arrives at Maria’s apartment she finds her dead and Jemima is accused of her murder.  Now Jemima must find out what really happened to clear her name and find out who framed her.

It’s not a bad little story to pass an hour or so – a bit like a Sunday afternoon Miss Marple.  Apart from one twist, that I didn’t see coming, it was quite predictable.  Perhaps it’s a book that the older generation might enjoy.

I received this book from the publisher, Headline, via Bookbridgr in exchange for an honest review.

My rating:

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The Mice of Holy Redeemer Hill - Christopher Carnahan

After a disastrous year, a little, overworked mouse named Mystic and her family are trying find the joy of Christmas. As their preparations are underway, menacing rats dampen their holiday spirit. Nosey kids pose a constant threat. They’ve managed to make friends with a rambunctious scurry of squirrels who have vowed to protect and keep them safe in their home in a crèche outside of Holy Redeemer Parish. 

The parish is home to a dedicated but lonely priest and two nuns who teach at the church school. Together they are on their own quest to help those struggling during the Advent season. A National Guard veteran recently returned from war struggles with symptoms of PTSD. A homeless man seeks redemption. A young woman tries to escape from an abusive relationship. As the drama unfolds, their lives intertwine with those of the creatures on the grounds the parish grounds building to an explosive ending.

Written so that the story unfolds throughout the Advent season, this book is broken into 25 short chapters that can be read once a day from the first of December until Christmas.

What did I think?

I was drawn to this book as part of my festive reading as it was described as kind of an advent book, with 25 chapters to read throughout December.  I think I would have found it hard to link the stories together if I had only read one chapter every day, so I read a few chapters at a time.

The book touches on the side of Christmas we don’t like to see, but should be reminded of – those who are homeless, suffering from PTSD, victims of domestic violence, or separated from loved ones.  It reminds us of forgiveness in the face of adversity, to never give up and that small is mighty.

Although there were some nice little stories, I was expecting a warm Christmassy glow at the end which unfortunately I didn’t get.

I received this e-book from Books Go Social in exchange for an honest review.

My rating:

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Christmas Evie - Nicola May

It’s two days before Christmas and Evie Harris finds herself both manless and jobless. After a chance encounter with handsome Greg (and egged on by her toy-boy-eating friend, Bea) she agrees to work at a homeless shelter on Christmas Day. 

Striking up an unlikely friendship with homeless Yves, Evie begins an unwitting journey of spiritual awakening, all set against the sparkling winter backdrop of London. 

A New Year’s Eve revelation is on its way … but will it leave Evie with a happy heart, or will she allow the pre-Christmas past to dictate her future? 

What did I think?

Wow!  What an amazing little novella; this book gave me goosebumps and really warmed my heart on a cold winter night.  It’s a quick read that packs a big punch.

Evie is suddenly single and unemployed at Christmas and, when she meets handsome stranger Greg in the pub, agrees to help out in a homeless shelter.  It is there that she meets one of the homeless men, Yves, and she agrees to meet him at various locations around London.  At each location, the beauty of London shines through and Yves with a ‘Y’ hands Evie with an ‘E’ a little card at the end of each excursion reminding her of the lesson learned.  With his sudden appearances and disappearances, it quickly became apparent that there was something special about Yves.  He really made Evie look inside herself and open her heart to the possibility of a new relationship.

I have to give a special mention to Evie’s friend, Bea, who was responsible for my many chuckles when reading this book.  She is absolutely hilarious, and is the complete opposite to peaceful Yves.  She really doesn’t care what she says and is the perfect tonic to cheer up both Evie and the reader.

Although I had an idea in my head where the story was going, I wasn’t entirely right and the ending completely surprised me.  It’s a wonderful book that reminds us of those we miss at Christmastime and when they are still in our thoughts, they will never be very far away from us.

This is an absolutely superb short-story.  It is perfect for reading during the festive period, curled up in front of the fire with a nice glass of sherry.

I received this e-book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

My rating:

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Heart Conditions (Breakup Doctor book 3) - Phoebe Fox

Running a massively successful relationship counseling practice should guarantee smooth sailing in a girl’s own love life...

Breakup Doctor Brook Ogden has spent the last year sifting through the fallout from the disastrous decision that led to her unconscious uncoupling with boyfriend Ben Garrett. Despite advising her clients you can’t be friends with an ex, she and Ben have somehow begun to stitch together a friendship—one Brook hopes is slowly turning into more. That is, until Ben introduces his new girlfriend, Perfect Pamela, a paragon of womanly virtues who is everything Brook is not.

While Brook navigates her newly volatile emotional life, an unwelcome surprise shows up on her doorstep: the ex-fiancé who broke her heart two years ago—one month before their wedding. Between her ex’s desire to rekindle their attachment, her best friend Sasha’s unexpected crisis, and her own unsquelchable feelings for Ben, Brook finds herself questioning the personal progress she’s made in the last two years—and threatened with the highest-stakes Breakup Doctor failures she’s ever faced.

What did I think?

I don’t usually like to jump into a book mid-series but I made an exception in this case as this book sounded like so much fun.  With this being book 3 and my having enjoyed it so much, I can certainly say that you can read this as a stand-a-lone without having to read the earlier books.  Although I definitely want to read the first two books now!

So Brook, the Breakup Doctor, is torn between two men; her ex-fiancé Michael and her ex-boyfriend Ben.  It’s a bit like team Edward or team Jacob in the Twilight saga – the reader will end up rooting for one or the other, just as I did.  Michael appears to have changed since breaking off his wedding to Brook and Ben seems to have moved on by dating Perfect Pamela.  One is available, one is not – which one has captured Brook’s heart?

I have to say that my favourite character was Ben’s dog, Jake.  He reminds me of Scooby Doo – he’s so hilarious and loving that I eagerly looked forward to his appearances.  Thankfully, Phoebe Fox seemed to enjoy writing about Jake as he is almost one of the main characters himself.  I had many laugh out loud moments thanks to his escapades.

There’s also an interesting little story going on with Brook’s best friend, Sasha who is in a relationship with Brook’s brother, Stu.  Brook helps Sasha through a dilemma in a most unconventional way, which I found very amusing.  Sasha has a difficult decision to make and I thought it was handled very sensitively.

The Breakup Doctor was just the thing to put a smile on my face and I would heartily recommend a dose of this when you’re feeling blue.

I received this e-book from the publisher, Henery Press, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

My rating:

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The Glittering Art of Falling Apart - Ilana Fox

1980s Soho is electric. For Eliza, the heady pull of its nightclubs and free-spirited people leads her into the life she has craved - all glamour, late nights and excitement. But it comes at a heavy cost.

Cassie is fascinated by her family's history and the abandoned Beaufont Hall. Why won't her mother talk about it? Offered the chance to restore Beaufont to its former glory, Cassie jumps at the opportunity to learn more about her past.

Separated by a generation, but linked by a forgotten diary, these two women have more in common than they know . . .

What did I think?

This was an amazing book and I absolutely loved the dual storyline of Cassie in the present day and Eliza in the past.  The way that Eliza’s story unfolds through her diaries that Cassie found made this such a poignant and believable story.  Although the story is about Cassie discovering Eliza’s diaries, it is Eliza’s story that takes precedence and Cassie is the medium through which we must discover it, warts and all.

Eliza left home at 17, drawn to the bright lights of Soho, but finds a reality harsher than she expected.  The author is not afraid to touch on the old seedy side of Soho, covering subjects such as drug addiction, exploitation of models and prostitution.  Many youths of the 80’s will recognise songs that are mentioned in the book, which ensure that the reader is fully immersed in the era.  Reading about Eliza’s decline was sometimes difficult as I had really come to care about her. 

Following a devastating family tragedy, Eliza then discovers her mother’s estranged family who own stately Beaufont Hall in Buckinghamshire.  Her Aunt is quite cold towards her and it takes the unearthing of a shattering family secret to find out why.  Despite this, Eliza manages to build a lovely relationship with her cousin and shakes off her old life in Soho like a butterfly emerging from a chrysalis. 

Some might say that the ending was a little predictable, but it was the absolutely perfect ending to this tragic story and Eliza’s final letter did actually bring tears to my eyes.

This is a book full of family secrets and devastating events that really pulled at my heart-strings.  Even though it made me cry, I really loved this book and would read it again.

I received this e-book from the publisher, Orion, via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

My rating:

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Christmas Treat: Excerpt from 183 Times a Year by Eva Jordan

As Christmas approaches and 2015 draws to a close, I am delighted to share a Christmassy excerpt from one of my favourite books of 2015: The wonderful 183 Times a Year by Eva Jordan.  Many thanks to Eva Jordan for allowing me to post an excerpt from her fabulous book.

Chapter 26

IT’S BEGINNING TO LOOK A LOT LIKE CHRISTMAS

Lizzie

Every year I swear my cynical, socialist views will not be temporarily disabled and blindsided by some over sentimental, mawkish, consumer driven, drivelling TV advert. I will not be moved by a Christmas campaign designed to pull at the heartstrings whilst inadvertently directing the purse strings. I will not be moved, in any way, shape or form by advertising that has now become as much a part of the yuletide season as turkey, absurdly silly knitwear and mistletoe and woe in soapland. And yet, once again, this year like every other year finds me in the kitchen, after making excuses to absent myself, blubbing like a baby. I am, I have to admit, stirred by the genius of the Christmas advert.

Everyone has caught onto it. TV advertising with an emotional connection; nostalgia poked and provoked. So, here I sit, quite innocently minding my own business, watching the usual Saturday night TV when out of nowhere, during the commercial breaks, I am dragged, like poor old Ebenezer Scrooge, back through the memories of my Christmases past.

First there are the Christmases of long past—my own childhood. A childhood where my parents struggled but stayed together nonetheless; money was tight, carpets and wallpaper were a distasteful mix of browns and olive greens and always had some sort of flowery design. Flares, long hair and platform shoes were the order of the day—for men as well as women—and life seemed a little more—simple. We didn’t have a lot but we were grateful for what we did have and filled the gaps with love.

Then of course we are reminded of the big man himself; Christmas past but not so long ago. Depictions of a round, jolly, seventy something year old in a bright red, fur trimmed suit to match his beard with black shiny boots and the all-important sack of toys. Father Christmas doesn’t live at our house anymore but through the power of advertising I grieve his loss. I am reminded of those magical moments I created with Cassie and Connor—later Maisy and Simon too. Carrots left out for Rudolph and a mince pie and glass of sherry for Santa; decorating the tree to Christmas songs, then worn out and huddled together on the sofa, cup of hot chocolate in hand, watching something seasonal; and of course the squeals of delight at some ridiculous ungodly hour,

“He’s been!! He’s been!!”

And not a care in the world that I had nothing or very little to open—the giving far more enjoyable than the receiving.

Then of course there’s Christmas present. Sulky, surly teenagers; the yoof of today aggrieved and embarrassed at their parents, grandparents or younger siblings best efforts to include them in the festive seasons activities, only to be drawn in at the last minute under mock protest and duress. I sigh out loud, lost in an abyss of memories.

Where has it gone? Where have all the years gone?

‘You okay babe?’ Simon has sneaked up behind me. He wraps his arms around my waist and holds me—tight. I lay my hands on top of his and hold on for dear life. I don’t reply. Simon thinks I’m mourning sentimental memories of Christmases past—which I am—but I’m also grieving the loss of my friend. My best friend.

‘Christmas adverts eh? They get me every time too.’ I swing round and look at Simon as he folds me into his chest. He strokes my hair and I can smell him—fresh, familiar and safe. I eventually look up.

‘The kids are growing up fast eh?’

Simon tilts my chin up towards him and looks at me. ‘Just remember the words of one very wise old man,’ he replies. I frown—confused. ‘It’s not a life, it’s an adventure!!’ Simon declares in his best cockney accent, which is in fact very poor. But it’s done the trick and I’m smiling again.

He bends down and kisses me. His lips are warm and hot on mine. He loves me but he also wants me. His passion is hard and evident, to me anyway, and for a moment I’m lost.

‘Urrggghh, for god sake get a bloody room will you? That’s like well gross,’ Cassie, who has now joined us, says. A look of horror flicks across her face. I laugh.

‘You’re just jealous,’ Simon smirks.

‘As if.’

‘She’s right Dad. It’s really not right, get a bloody room.’ Maisy has now joined us too and trailing just behind her is Connor. He looks slightly puzzled.

‘Why do Mum and Simon have to get a room?’ he asks. Everyone starts to laugh.

‘Who wants hot chocolate?’ Simon shouts.


You can read my review of 183 Times a Year here.

Read my Q&A with Eva Jordan here.

Most important of all, click here to buy this fabulous book from Amazon.

Author Interview: Q&A with Eva Jordan

One of my favourite books of 2015 is the wonderful 183 Times a Year by Eva Jordan.  It's a book that really made me think about how I act and react with those I love and, to my absolute shame I have to admit, if the book was about me it would be called 360 Times a Year.  When given the opportunity to host a Q&A with Eva Jordan, I absolutely jumped at the chance and I really hope you enjoy reading my interview.  If you haven't yet had the pleasure of reading 183 Times a Year, I strongly suggest you head over to Amazon and pick up a copy for yourself.

Q: 183 Times a Year is your wonderful debut novel – what was your inspiration to write it?

A: Thank you so much Michelle. I suppose my debut novel is a social observation of family life and in particular the relationship between a mother and her teenage daughter. Although at times the mother-daughter relationship is a road fraught with diverse and complex emotions, it can also be – like many strong, female friendships – very enriching and rewarding. Inspired by own experiences and that of friends and family I felt inspired to write 183 TIMES A YEAR as an observation of the complex and diverse relationship between a mother and daughter set amongst the thorny realities of today’s sometimes divided, often extended, modern family. 

Q: I got the impression that 183 Times a Year has a semi-autobiographical feel to it, can you tell us how much of the story was influenced by your own experiences?

A: I wouldn’t say my novel is semi-autobiographical – all the characters and events are definitely fictional – but I have been, without a doubt, inspired by the relationship between my own daughters and myself but also by that of friends and acquaintances and their stories and experiences. And, of course, I have also been influenced by my relationship with my own mother.

Q: Have you always wanted to write a book and how long did it take for 183 Times a Year to go from idea to publication?

A: I’ve always wanted to be a writer and have done so, on and off, for most of my life. I had some poetry published when I was younger and more recently I’ve had some short stories published. Also, during my early twenties I joined a band with one of my brothers where I sang backing vocals but also co-wrote and recorded original material too. However it wasn’t until after I graduated as a mature student with a BA Honours Degree in English and History in 2009 that I seriously thought about writing a book. 183 TIMES A YEAR took approximately one year to write and then I suppose another year to do re-writes and edit.

Q: I picked up a few messages from your book; the main ones being to treat others as you'd like to be treated yourself and to not generalise and label people. Did you intend for the reader to learn some life lessons along the way? 

A: I don’t think it’s the job of a writer to preach their own values or belief systems to their readers but yes, I did intend for my readers to think about some of the social issues and problems that surround us. Books should make you think, and question things.

Q: There's an interesting dip into immortality in 183 Times a Year. Was the mention of Nicolas Flamel a Harry Potter influence or homage to the legendary alchemist?

A: The mention of Nicolas Flamel is actually homage to my dad. Like the grandparents in my book, both my parents have been avid readers all their lives. My dad talked of Nicolas Flamel and the philosophers stone long before J K Rowling wrote about it. That said, I am a huge fan of Harry Potter – I think my dad missed a trick there though!

Q: What are your writing routines, where do you do most of your writing and do you prefer to write with pen, pencil or keyboard?

A: We have a small room where the main computer in our house is kept and I do most of my writing there. However, if I get too many interruptions I’ll disappear upstairs with my laptop. Unlike a lot of writers I do actually prefer using a keyboard – I learned to touch type when I was in my teens so I just find it a lot easier and more convenient to type. I do have several (hundred probably!) notebooks that I carry around with me though to write down ideas when they come to me. I also, due to family commitments, prefer to write early in the morning – when it’s quiet!

Q: When you aren't writing, what do you enjoy doing?

A: When I’m not writing I love to read – fiction and non-fiction. I also love a good film or a good TV series like Sherlock Holmes, Breaking Bad and just recently I’ve been watching the second series of Fargo. I also love all kinds of music and love to watch live bands – with the odd glass or two of wine!

Q: Who are your favourite authors and do you have a favourite book?

A: I honestly couldn’t pick out a favourite author or book. I’ve read a lot of different genres and a lot of different authors over the years. I’m not a book snob either – I appreciate the simplicity of some books and the difficulty of others. Three of the most recent books I’ve read are The Last Days of Rabbit Hayes by Anna McPartlin, Love In The Time Of Cholera by Gabriel Garci Márquez and The Woman Who Walked Into Doors by Roddy Doyle – all very different, all very enjoyable. I love the classics like Wuthering Heights, Pride and Prejudice and Elizabeth Gaskell’s North and South however I also love most of Stephen King, writers like Angela Carter and I loved Philip K Dick’s Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep.

Q: Tell us a little about yourself – who is Eva Jordan?

A: I am a published short story writer with a degree in English and History. I live in a small town in Cambridgeshire with my partner and three of our four children who are a constant source of inspiration! My career has been varied, including working in a Women’s Refuge and more recently at the city library. I enjoy the odd glass of wine, coffee cake and taking long walks. I also love reading or watching a good film and really enjoy the company of good friends and family. However, storytelling through the art of writing is my true passion. 183 TIMES A YEAR is my debut novel.

Q: Finally, the question that all readers of 183 Times a Year are dying to ask: can we look forward to a second novel?

A: Yes, there is definitely going to be a sequel to 183 TIMES A YEAR, which is what I’m working on at the moment. I’ve more or less structured my plan for the book and written the opening chapter. Hopefully, like my debut novel, there will be a few tears but lots of laughter. Watch this space!

You can read my review of 183 Times a Year here and read an excerpt here.

I honestly can't stop thinking about this book; it's definitely a book I will read again and I'm sure I will enjoy it just as much the second time round.

Don't wait a minute longer, buy it now from Amazon by clicking here.