I've always loved reading and got through several books a year commuting to work. In the past few years, working crazy hours meant that my reading (and other hobbies and interests) took a back seat. With being forced to stay at home during lockdown and books to review, I managed to make an effort to read a couple of books a week. So, I thought that I'd include a selection of those here. I am always looking for good books, so let me know if you have any recommendations.
"In Case You Missed It" by Lindsay Kelk
HarperCollins, releasing 23 July, 2020
This is the story of Ros, a girl who returns home to London after a few years from moving to the USA for her career and dumping her boyfriend. Things did not go well for her in the USA, and she rekindles her friendships and relationship although she is sent to live in the garden shed by her parents. While out with friends, she gets to know someone else; this is okay, because her boyfriend is a little degrading and dull. Overall, it is a good escape story and one that is easy to pick up and read through without stopping.
My review: 9/10
"Who Cares Wins" by Lily Cole
Penguin Books, releasing 30 July, 2020
Model Lily Cole has spent time and effort understanding some of the leading world issues today and makes sense of them in her book. Environmental and sustainability are the two primary subjects discussed in the book with plenty of examples from her life and contacts. Hopefully this book will inspire others to take action to make the world a better place. Overall, the book is insightful in some of the ideas and also allows readers to see a range of possibilities and research. This should be used to help readers understand the tops from a top level and then to research them further.
My review: 7/10
"Before the Crown" by Flora Harding
HarperCollins, releasing 10 December, 2020
Viewers who enjoy the Netflix series 'The Crown' are sure to love this book, which covers the life of Elizabeth and Philip's blossoming relationship. It gives a glimpse of the life of the young woman who would be queen and an insight into her relationships with family; it also covers Philip's story. This was another great escape story with words that flowed off the page, making it a book that was destined to be picked up and finished in one reading.
My review: 9/10
"Belladonna" by Anbara Salam
Penguin Books, releasing 16 July, 2020
Young Bridget is the narrator of this story who is a school girl from Connecticut when she meets the popular Isabella. Set in the 1950s, Bridget is mesmerised by Isabella and spends several months with her at a rural Italian university operated by nuns. The story covers the intimate relationship that the girls have with the betrayal and manipulation, focusing on the obsession Bridget has for Isabella. The book offered an escapism and wonderful descriptions of the Italian setting along with an interesting cast of characters.
My review: 9/10
"The Thursday Murder Club" by Richard Osman
Penguin Random House, releasing 3 September, 2020
This murder mystery takes place in a retirement community where some of the residents take it upon themselves to solve the events happening in the community. The plot has many twists and different characters to keep the reader guessing what will happen next. The author has a great writing style, and the writing is witty and allows a break from the more serious scenes. I can see this book being especially popular with fans of the mystery and crime genre.
My review: 7/10
"What It's Really Like" by Jane Morris
Truth Be Told Publishing, released 10 June, 2020
For those who have ever wondered what it's like to be a teacher or who have friends who are, this book is a must-read. The book is split into several stories or one-page correspondence that really says it all. Not only do teachers have to teach children, but they have to babysit them too. They also have to deal with egotistical education board members and parents and hilarious incidents that have happened in the classroom. However, there are also inspiring stories too. This book kept me laughing in places and gobsmacked in others.
My review: 9/10
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