Review: Bad Blood

Bad Blood by Casey Kelleher
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

WOW
Wow and wow again... Another book to go into my top ten Favorites of 2014.


I have to say I was absolutly Buzzing when I recieved an early release copy of this book. I couldn't wait to start it.
I have Recently read (Listened to) Caseys Rise and fall and Heartless on Audible. And listening to them was just as good if not better as reading them.
This author really knows how to write a bloody good book.


From the very beginning of this book I was gripped.
Bad blood is based around Harry Woods. A well know face and ex boxer, his family and his main man Raymond, He has 2 Daughters and 2 son's and I think everyone of his kid's are different in their own way. Some likeable and some not so. And I always find if i start really disliking or liking one of the characters then it just goes to show how good the author has done dragging you into their lives.


Harry's children are his life, we have one at boarding school, one totally out of control, one who wants back into the family after walking away from them, and one who wants out of the family to go legit. What a family combination that is.
I'm not going into the story line as I don't think I could do it without giving to much away and I wouldn't want to spoil it for anyone.


This book was so well written its frightening where some of these idea's must come from. And Casey is well up there with other authors in this genre. The book just come together so bloody well. I was left speachless at the end of this book.. This really is a must read.

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Review: Nobody's Child

Nobody's Child by Victoria Jenkins
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Nobody’s Child by Victoria Jenkins is book 3 in the Detectives King & Lane. This is a series I've really enjoyed so far. I have just read book 1, 2 and 3 back to back. It was great doing so as I didn't have to wait for the next one each time, until I finished this beauty and now I have the 'I WANT THE NEXT BOOK syndrome.
This one really does have you on the edge of your seat. It's one of those books you can't put down.
Some fantastic twists and a brilliant story line. If you haven't read any of these books then I really do suggest you start now, and do what I've just done and read them back to back.
When a body is found in a burnt out former hospital it's down to Alex and Chloe to get working on the case, who is it, what was he/she doing there. Why did the fire start or more so who started the fire? It's no time at all that the case escalates and Alex and her team really do have their work cut out.
Alex is also battling her own issues, but can't let it stop her finding who this killer is. As always Alex throws her all into her case.
I've enjoyed getting to know Alex and Chloe over these 3 books, I do however feel there is still a lot we don't know about them and I really am looking forward to reading more and learning more about them as this series progresses. I can see this becoming one hell of damn good series, I feel there will be an awful lot of readers out there eagerly waiting for each instalment.
This really is a detective thriller that gets you hooked and keeps you their right up to the end.
​Easily the best one yet. LOVED IT!

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Review: Stay Dead

Stay Dead by Jessie Keane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Go me, another book read from my back log of books. Good old Amazon informed me I'd purchased this book in 2016, I really thought I was up to date with this series, but clearly I wasn't. It was only after I'd just read LAWLESS that I decided to check what other outstanding books I had by this author and come across this one.
I've loved my little Jessie Keane binge, it's cemented again my thoughts that this lady certainly can write a page turner. Annie Carter at her best, this book I have read in just over a 24hour period, not sleeping very well certainly had it's advantages for me.
Some brilliant twist and turns in this book and a lot I really didn't see coming, I love when a book can surprise me and this one certainly did that.
Personally I have to say, that to fully enjoy this book then the series needs reading in order. It really will help to have the back history of a lot of the characters.
When Annie Carter receives news that her friend Dolly Farrell is dead, she heads back to London. What then unfolds is a roller coaster of a ride, heart pounding, nail biting read. I was hooked from the beginning and I know we say it a lot about good books, but I really couldn't put this down.
There is an awful lot packed into these pages, and it was good to read it over a short time period so my little mind didn't get lost. Some of our favourite characters from this series really show their colours here.
How or where Jessie Keane gets her story idea's from I don't know, I just hope they continue for a long time to come.
Thrilled to have finally caught up, and absolutely loved this book.
It's a big 5 stars from me.
​

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Review: Last Witness

Last Witness by Chris Merritt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

​I went to start book 3 in this series and suddenly realised I hadn't read book 2, how bad of me is that. So over Christmas I decided while I had a little time off work, I could play catch up on some of the series I've gotten a little behind with. Starting with this bad boy.
What a brilliant read I picked. I was introduce to Zac Boateng in book one, Bring her back. That book opened with such a gripping start it was so difficult to put it down. This one was no different. Another brilliant start to a book, and a main character who is growing on me the more I read about him. What is it with Bookouture authors, they seem to crate some of the best fictional characters there is. Mainly detectives.
This book kicks off with Detective Inspector Zac Boateng receiving a call from an old friends, a long time friend, yet when he arrives at the house there is no answer. gaining entry to the house he discovers his friend, Troy McEwen is dead. It looks like suicide to anyone but Zac, Zac is convinced that his friend would not have committed suicide.
Zac has to investigate Troy's death off the record, there is no way he can leave it at a suicide verdict, he know's different. When other things start happening that seem to relate to something that had happened in Zac and Troys past, Zac knows he's on the right tracks.
But at what expense will Zac go to to prove himself right.
A brilliant nail biting read. Any crime thriller fans will enjoy this series. There is only one thing for me to do now and that is to start book 3.

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Review: Lawless

Lawless by Jessie Keane
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well according to good old Amazon, 'You purchased this item on 19 July 2014'. so why the hell am I only just getting around to reading it. I trawled through my reviews and goodreads to double check if I had read it, yet as soon as I started it I knew I hadn't previously read it. How bad of me is that.
Well as they say, better late than never. I really do need to stop buying books until I'm going to read them. lol

I also had a feeling I hadn't read book 1 yet, although good reads is telling me I have, and some parts of this story the characters seemed familiar. Once I got going and slowly remembered some of the characters I was back in to the story.

Ruby Darke, has lost her love, Michael and is trying to get on with life. It's not easy to do when your son seems to hate you, but is trying to help you as he promised Michael, Ruby's love, that he would look out for his mother.
There is just trouble here, trouble at ever turn. Every few pages there is drama and more trouble. What a read this turned out to be.
Ruby's son Kit, believes that Tito Danieri killed Michael, So its down to Kit to kill Tito. It doesn't mater who tries to tell him any different his mind set is set. Only one thing can happen when families clash. This book needs reading to enjoy it, and it needs you sat somewhere quiet where no one can disturb you until that last page.
There are a good few twists and turns in this book that throw up a good few surprises. some amazing characters.
Well worth reading. If you have read any of Jessie Keane's other books then you know what sort of treat you are in for, believe me this book really does not disappoint.

I am now lucky that I have book 3 to read, while all characters are fresh in my mind, I really can't wait to see what happens.

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Review: Cuckoo

Cuckoo by Sophie Draper
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

Caro is an artist and illustrator, fining life a little bit of a struggle, when returns to her childhood home for the funeral of her stepmother Elizabeth, little does she know how much of her life is about to change.
Steph the sister of Caro has made the journey over from New York for the funeral and is meeting her younger sister for the first time in many, many years. Although the sisters are now relative strangers to each other there is always a bonding, a sibling bond between them which has never left them really stemming from the time they spent growing up at the isolated farmhouse in rural Derbyshire with their stepmother.
This remote farmhouse now offers refuge from a bad relationship, and a chance to start again for Caro.
The village seems strange for Caro, why are people looking at her oddly. What is it with this place.
There were parts in this book it felt a little odd, and I found if I stopped part way through a chapter, then I had to go back and re read it, there were parts in this book that felt rather spooky, that made you want to continue reading it.

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Review: Deceit

Deceit by Kerry Barnes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

It's difficult to believe I only read my first Kerry Barnes book at the beginning of this year. This is now the 4th one I have read. I have to say from first reading 'Cruel Secrets' I was blown away with the talent this author has for writing.
I am truly thankful that a twitter friend messaged me and told me I needed to read 'Cruel Secrets' that I would really enjoy it, because if he hadn't told me, then I would not have gone on to read some of the other books and I wouldn't have read this one yet.
​Deceit, compared to Kerry's other books, for me felt like a little bit of a slow starter, building up gradually getting you familiar with characters and surroundings. Engaging you slowly into a story that explodes and becomes gripping. I bought the Audible copy of the book so I could read when I felt like reading, and then continue to listen when I had things I needed to do. I flew through my whole house cleaning away while listening, and didn't feel as though I'd been cleaning. I loved listening it. I have to say though the accents done in the audio book at times really felt like I was listening to characters from EastEnders. Brilliantly done.
The tale of how life can change in a heartbeat. Not only for you, but for those around you. Who can be trusted, who should you believe.
I have to say the twists in this book were first class, just brilliant. I really wasn't expecting what I read.
Kerry has a great knack for engaging the reading, dragging you into the pages, becoming part of the story yourself.
There was some great turns in this story, that I just didn't see coming. Brilliantly put together tale of 'deceit'

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Review: Hush Hush

Hush Hush by Mel Sherratt
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Another hit, another great book written by this very talented author. DS Grace Allendale is not only starting out with a new team, the first new case she is faced with is investigating one of the local crime families, which turns out to be her own family. Her estranged family, she's certainly not close to any of them. This had conflicting views from all around. Her team didn't know if they could trust her and her family didn't want anything to do with her. It certainly added an edge to this story.
Can Grace and her team figure out who is murdering men in their city, before the count rises?
This certainly turned into a real page turner, once I managed to get around to reading the book, I couldn't wait to pick it up, each time I had chance to sit down, I did so with this book.
It's a great start to what I believe is going to be another damn good series by this author. The pages of this book are packed with everything you would expect from a Mel Sherratt book, with a little more thrown in. I sure can't wait to read more.

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Review: The Taken Girls

The Taken Girls by G.D. Sanders
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

4.5

An interesting protagonist and a decent story line, once I had started and gotten into this book, I really enjoyed it. Learning about new characters, getting know what makes them tick, why they act the way they do, is always interesting when starting a new book.
This book certainly makes you think the whole of the way through it. Although it felt a little unusual, it was very enjoyable.
For a debut, I think the author has done exceptionally well and should be very proud of what they have achieved.
Arriving in Canterbury, DI Edina ‘Ed’ Ogborne is a character very different to others, getting to know her was great. Thrown right into a case where a teenage girl is taken, kidnapped yet not harmed in anyway it seems. It also seems very odd that the kidnapper hasn't wanted to harm her. So why has he taken her. Well, all that is revealed from reading the book.
It soon becomes apparent that this is not the first girl he has taken. It's down to Ed and her team to try and figure out what connections these girls have, what or who do they have in common, only then can things move forward and the case move on.
I found this book to have some good twists and turns and seemed to move on at a decent pace, it wasn't to slow, but didn't race on with itself.

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Review: Fire on the Fens

Fire on the Fens by Joy Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Let me please just start with, I absolutely love this series of books. I can't believe here we are at book 9. I love everything about this series, the characters, the plot, the writing. How easy the books are to follow, yet totally gripping and unputdownable.
I love the characters, the main characters NIkki and Joseph have grown so much over the 9 books, It's been an amazing journey with them so far. Never have I known two characters so different yet so alike. The working relationship between them is first class, there is laughter and frustration along their paths but they plod on and get through it.
This is an intense story, a real page turner that will have you gripped from the opening pages.
When someone is burned alive, its Nikki and her team that have a race on their hands to find out who has done this and why? It soon becomes clear a serial arsonist is out there and it's only a matter of time before someone else is hurt. The case sends them on roller coaster of a ride that will certainly leave you holding on tight.
Anyone looking for a damn good police procedural series really needs to start reading these books. First class story telling. I can't recommend these enough.

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Review: The Liverpool Girls: A Heartbreaking Family Saga with a Tragic Romance

The Liverpool Girls: A Heartbreaking Family Saga with a Tragic Romance by Pam Howes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Certainly not something I would normally read, but I decided a while back to give the first book a try. I absolutely loved it, I enjoyed every bit, also book two. So when I knew book 3 was available to read as an ARC I jumped at the chance.
​I couldn't wait to carry on this journey that I feel I've been on with Dora. I loved the character of Dora and all through book 1 and 2 I was rooting for her, wanting her life to turn out well.
​In this book we follow the lives of two sisters Carol and Jackie. It's not been an easy childhood for them, and things are about to get a little tougher. We have trying times ahead.
​For me this book needed to be read while snuggled up cosy on the couch. I felt like characters were part of my extended family, I really feel like I have been on a life journey with them.
​As said before this isn't my normal type of read, and I'm so glad that @Kimthebookworm gave me a nudge in the right direction. I'll miss these characters. I could quite happily of continued to read more and more about them. Brilliant characters created by a brilliant author. Pam certainly knows how to draw you into a story, this is brilliantly and beautifully written. I certainly hope to read more from Pam.
I have no hesitation in highly recommending all 3 of these books.

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Review: The Factory Girls of Lark Lane: A heartbreaking World War 2 historical novel of loss and love

The Factory Girls of Lark Lane: A heartbreaking World War 2 historical novel of loss and love by Pam Howes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have said this before, this is not the usual genre I normally read, but after reading Pam's Liverpool girls books, I couldn't wait to read this one. Pam has a unique way of writing these war time stories. It's almost as if you could have actually been there when reading Pam's books. You really are taken into the story and the surroundings, living the lives of the characters through the words.
Heart warming and heart breaking the lives of families living through WWII.
1940's in Liverpool where families are saying goodbye to their loved ones, families torn apart by war, families that stick together through thick and thin.
Alice and Terry are getting married and while everyone loves a good wedding it can be a difficult thing to do during the war. Getting married and saying goodbye to your now husband the day after must truly be heart breaking. This is what happened to this young couple. Life for Alice as a married woman doesn't start off the way we all imagine a marriage should. With families and friendship Alice has to get on with life, while here husband is away fighting in a war. It's a time when everyone comes together when everyone is going through the same things. It's amazing when you look back just how people managed to get through this time of their lives.
It's safe to say Pam has worked a blinder with this book, have some tissues at the ready and get yourself stuck in. Get lost in those pages just like I did, get taken to another time what could almost feel like another world. This book is written beautifully and is really difficult to put down once you start it.
​The Factory Girls of Lark Lane is a first class read and I certainly can't wait for more from this author.

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Review: The Factory Girls of Lark Lane: A heartbreaking World War 2 historical novel of loss and love

The Factory Girls of Lark Lane: A heartbreaking World War 2 historical novel of loss and love by Pam Howes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I have said this before, this is not the usual genre I normally read, but after reading Pam's Liverpool girls books, I couldn't wait to read this one. Pam has a unique way of writing these war time stories. It's almost as if you could have actually been there when reading Pam's books. You really are taken into the story and the surroundings, living the lives of the characters through the words.
Heart warming and heart breaking the lives of families living through WWII.
1940's in Liverpool where families are saying goodbye to their loved ones, families torn apart by war, families that stick together through thick and thin.
Alice and Terry are getting married and while everyone loves a good wedding it can be a difficult thing to do during the war. Getting married and saying goodbye to your now husband the day after must truly be heart breaking. This is what happened to this young couple. Life for Alice as a married woman doesn't start off the way we all imagine a marriage should. With families and friendship Alice has to get on with life, while here husband is away fighting in a war. It's a time when everyone comes together when everyone is going through the same things. It's amazing when you look back just how people managed to get through this time of their lives.
It's safe to say Pam has worked a blinder with this book, have some tissues at the ready and get yourself stuck in. Get lost in those pages just like I did, get taken to another time what could almost feel like another world. This book is written beautifully and is really difficult to put down once you start it.
​The Factory Girls of Lark Lane is a first class read and I certainly can't wait for more from this author.

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Review: The Hunted

The Hunted by Kerry Barnes
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you haven't read a book by Kerry Barnes then you really don't know what you are missing. Curled up over the bonfire weekend, fire roaring and a hot drink in hand, I didn't know what was more explosive, the books or the fireworks outside. It felt like the perfect time to be reading this explosive book.
I don't know where to start, this book has it all Deceit, corruption, murder, feuds, rivalry, violence. It's a first class page turner. If you're a lover of a good gangland thriller, then you really are in for a treat.

​The first book in a new series, I believe The Rules should be available in Feb 2019 followed by The Choice in May 2019.
​Both available to pre order now.

This book gallops along at an amazing pace. Dragging you right into the story. At times I could feel I was there, I was so engrossed in it. There are, as you would expect some fantastic characters, and I believe like me there will some characters you love, and some you'll hate. Kerry has certainly worked her magic and has managed to bring these characters to life.
I particularly liked Mike Regan, his bad boy, villain character, with a hidden softer side was a fave. Mike's world comes crashing down when his Son Ricky is Kidnapped. Having believed he was protecting his son, he sent his wife away with him thinking they would be safe. Mike enlists the help of Zara, a woman he has a past with, to help find his son. Zara Ezra is the new Woman about town. Having taken over her fathers firm, she has a lot to prove. It's certainly not going to be easy for Zara proving she can cut the mustard in what is believed to be a 'mans world. But Zara certainly isn't a weak and feeble woman, she's a woman with an agenda. A woman with a mind of her own, and power to back it. Or is she?
I can see this becoming one EPIC series of books.
They say time flies by, but it doesn't, it drags like hell when you are waiting for the next book... I'm not sat here drumming my fingers and singing 'why are we waiting'... honest I'm not. lol

Kerry Barnes is certainly making a name for herself in this genre, she's way up there with the best. I'm relatively new to Kerry's books but I can safely say I haven't been disappointed with one yet. They really do get belter and better with each book. When I first read - Cruel Secrets, I really didn't believe not only Kerry, but anyone could top that book. Having read this one, I know I was wrong. Kerry has smashed it, Big time. First class story telling. If you are new to Kerry's books then OMG how awesome as you will get to read them back to back, WOW how exciting is that.

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Review: Die Cold

Die Cold by Graham Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

As usual Boulder is in the centre of trouble. Not his doing I might add, he just seems to certainly be in wrong places at the wrong time. Only there is no way of him getting out of this wrong place, as he's at an exclusive Vermont ski resort on New Year’s Eve, in the middle of a snow storm, where only the rich can afford to stay. A Private getaway or so it seemed. That is until terrorist take over, and Boulder is now trapped along with the other hostages.
Clearly this being Boulder you just know he's not going to sit back and let these monsters do as they please, he's got to wait for a perfect opportunity to fight back. And he certainly does fight back.

What then happens is a roller coaster of a read, I found myself more than once holding my breath, trying not to breath and interrupt what was happening. My heart was pounding. This book felt so real you could almost be shivering in the storm. If this book had been a film I think I'd have been hiding behind a cushion throughout.
A High octane , fast paced, edge of your seat battle. I was totally lost in this book, and I can't find a way of saying what I thought, without giving to much of the story away. I wouldn't like to spoil it for anyone, but what I can say is what a damn treat you are in for.
I just love the character that is Jake Boulder, he's lost and wanted to get away, blend into the background and figure out life, that's just never going to happen for him.
Graham Smith, I am again more than just a little impressed with your writing skills.

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Review: Last Lullaby

Last Lullaby by Carol Wyer
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a fantastic read.

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Review: Tell Nobody

Tell Nobody by Patricia Gibney
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book 5 in the amazing Lottie Parker series. This is another series I love reading and I look forward to each and every book. A series that is well worth reading. Great characters and fantastic story lines. You really need to be reading these books.
These books captivate you and drag you into those pages right from the beginning and this one, book 5 is no exception. I loved it. I really am a huge Lottie Parker fan. As soon as I started this book it felt like i'd only just left Ragmullin, and I was right back there from the get go.
Lottie and her team are faced with the deaths of two young boys. This is a difficult case, not only because it's children but because there seems to be no real clues to set them off.
A rollercoaster of a ride for the team. Lottie is also struggling with her home life, after losing her home to fire, she is living at her mothers with her children. It's certainly not an ideal situation, Lottie seems to really be on the edge in this book, I just can't help but like her even more with each book I read. She's still a little screwed up, but this really adds to her character and makes her stand out as an individual.
Some great twists in this brilliantly written story. Although the story can be a little upsettings its put together so well. Well worth reading and totally gripping. I know I keep going on about this and I say it all the time, but I really do recommend that you read this book after reading the previous ones. I guess you could get away with reading just this one, but where is the fun in that, when you could actually read all 5 back to back. Its certainly worth knowing Lottie's back story as I feel it adds to the story.

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Review: In the Shadows

In the Shadows by Tara Lyons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

2018
As it's been a good while since I read this book.

I've just re read it, so I can now continue with the rest of the series. Refreshed and ready to go fro it.

2016
For a Debut this is a pretty damn good read. Tara your dreams of becoming an author are now coming true and you should be pretty damn proud of yourself.
​This is a great read for any crime thriller fan, I have read Tara's other book that was co written with the awesome M A Comley. And can see Tara becoming a much loved author of many.

Grace Murphy isn't in a very good place at the moment. She has just lost her Grandfather, and is trying to deal with the loss. But then it seems like people who are being murdered are somehow linked to Grace, and Grace doesn't know of any reason why this is or even if she is going to be next.
​How difficult must that be to deal with. Grace decides to seek help.

​Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton of the MET Police is working the case along with his team, and Unfortunately the Killer isn't leaving them any DNA so its not going to be straight forward. I liked Denis Hamilton in this book. And it would be interesting to hear more of him in the future. The team seemed to really work well together rather than it just being all down to one person.

​The killer seems like very self assured. And seems to know what they are doing. But can they stay in the shadows.

​You do start to think you know who, what and why, but oh no, the author has done a great job of twisting things around in this book and it really will keep you gripped. It is an easy read and you will find yourself flying through it, and at just over 200 pages it is one that will not take you to long to read.

Tara you should be proud of yourself with this book, and I certainly can't wait to read more from you. Well done Girl.

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Review: Perfect Silence

Perfect Silence by Helen Sarah Fields
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

When silence falls, who will hear their cries?
The body of a young girl is found dumped on the roadside on the outskirts of Edinburgh. When pathologists examine the remains, they make a gruesome discovery: the outline of a doll carved into the victim’s skin.
DCI Ava Turner and DI Luc Callanach are struggling to find leads in the case, until a doll made of skin is found nestled beside an abandoned baby.
After another young woman is found butchered, Luc and Ava realise the babydoll killer is playing a horrifying game. And it’s only a matter of time before he strikes again. Can they stop another victim from being silenced forever – or is it already too late?






I have read these books pretty much back to back, only now realising I missed book 2 out. It hasn't really taken to much away from the reading experience for me. I have thoroughly enjoyed each one, and this is no exception. Here we are with book 4 in what I can see becoming a huge series.
I love the character of Luc Callanach, he's just so very different. I think there is a real good balance in this series between the seriousness of the work that needs to be done and the general camaraderie and humour between the team.
We see a lot more of Ava Turner in this book, a character that really is growing on me, a likeable character with the need and hunger to get on with the job in hand.

Searching for what appears to be a serial killer is never an easy task, The MIT have certainly got their work cut out. This case certainly had me playing detective, but I was wrong each time the book took another turn it was just brilliant.


This really is a gruesome case, and not for the faint hearted. It is dark and twisted, just how I like a good crime thriller to be. This will certainly keep you devouring those words, turning those pages until you reach the end and can finally breathe.

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Review: Perfect Death

Perfect Death by Helen Sarah Fields
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 3 in this series was a superb read, a gripping thriller to keep you on the edge of your seat. I'm loving the characters in this series and enjoying getting to know about them.

Callaghan and Turner are back, and this time they have a serial killer that need's catching. It isn't going to be easy and straight forward, because lets face it, we wouldn't want to read if they solved the case easily, there would be nothing to get stuck into.

Helen fields certainly has a knack of writing a book that will grip you, keep hold of you and spit you out panting for breath by the end of it.

I have only just realised I read book 1 then this one, I seem to have somehow missed book 2 out.

I love how while the books are serious, and dark there is also an element of humour with the characters personalities. There are a few characters that are really growing on me the more I get to know them.

I love reading a bloody good crime series and this is certainly turning out to be one those. I have no problems what so ever recommending this book. If you need a new series then this would be a perfect one for you to try.
I feel very privileged to have received this book as an ARC from Netgalley and even more so that I also have book 3 that I can start right away.

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Review: In the Shadows

In the Shadows by Tara Lyons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

2018
As it's been a good while since I read this book.

I've just re read it, so I can now continue with the rest of the series. Refreshed and ready to go fro it.

2016
For a Debut this is a pretty damn good read. Tara your dreams of becoming an author are now coming true and you should be pretty damn proud of yourself.
​This is a great read for any crime thriller fan, I have read Tara's other book that was co written with the awesome M A Comley. And can see Tara becoming a much loved author of many.

Grace Murphy isn't in a very good place at the moment. She has just lost her Grandfather, and is trying to deal with the loss. But then it seems like people who are being murdered are somehow linked to Grace, and Grace doesn't know of any reason why this is or even if she is going to be next.
​How difficult must that be to deal with. Grace decides to seek help.

​Detective Inspector Denis Hamilton of the MET Police is working the case along with his team, and Unfortunately the Killer isn't leaving them any DNA so its not going to be straight forward. I liked Denis Hamilton in this book. And it would be interesting to hear more of him in the future. The team seemed to really work well together rather than it just being all down to one person.

​The killer seems like very self assured. And seems to know what they are doing. But can they stay in the shadows.

​You do start to think you know who, what and why, but oh no, the author has done a great job of twisting things around in this book and it really will keep you gripped. It is an easy read and you will find yourself flying through it, and at just over 200 pages it is one that will not take you to long to read.

Tara you should be proud of yourself with this book, and I certainly can't wait to read more from you. Well done Girl.

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Review: The Girl Before

The Girl Before by J.P. Delaney
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

An interesting read, a good read but not as thrilling as I thought it was going to be. I liked the concept of the story, and it was easy enough to follow.

I hate how everywhere you look nowadays with books, you always get the 'if you likes xyz, then you'll love this.

Personally I'd say this is nothing like I've read before. It really was very different, a pretty unique story and one that is quite thought provoking at times.
It's easy to get lost in the book, and with each chapter being told from a different pov, Jane or Emma then they are quite short chapters, which makes it easy to sit and think just one more chapter, before you know it you have read a whole chunk of the book.

3.5*

I believe this to be JP Delaneys debut novel, which for a first novel I think it's very clever. I have then next book by this author to read and I'm looking forward to seeing what we are given this time.

I think this author is certainly going to be one to watch out for.

I can't go into the story line here, as it's one of those books that the slightest hint might give away way to much. The book description itself gives enough of an idea of what it's about. An interesting read, and should you be going away this would be an easy book to pick up and put down while lounging somewhere nice in the sun.

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Review: Why Mummy Swears: The Sunday Times Number One Bestseller

Why Mummy Swears: The Sunday Times Number One Bestseller by Gill Sims
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I personally follow a number of 'MUMMY' blogs on social media and I thouroghly love the tales that are told. Some of the posts on line are priceless, I also love how these types of blogs get parents realising that not everything has to be perfect, you are not a failure when you stay in your pj's for 3 days, when you don't want to face the world. These blogs show the reality of family life.

This book is by a blogger of social media page is ‘Peter and Jane’
A page I love following.

This is what I actually put for the first book, Why Mummy Drinks.
It's hilarious in parts. It is just so much 'real life, the ups and downs of parenting and being a grown up. Trying to get it right when you know it's all wrong. Trying to smash parenting in a pretentious middle class way, and failing miserably. Trying to be a very good responsible adult is more difficult that people realise.

And I have to say for Why mummy Swears my thoughts are pretty much the same..

Kick back, lock the kids under the stairs and get yourself stuck into this book. It's a great read.

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Review: Her Final Hour

Her Final Hour by Carla Kovach
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I couldn't wait to start this book. After reading book one I knew to expect a high standard of reading and a story that was going to grip you. I wasn't disappointed.
Melissa Sanderson seems to be the lady that has it all, the perfect life. We always say though, you never know what goes on behind closed doors. Living with her husband Darrell and their beautiful baby girl Mia. Life is about to change in this lovely cul-de-sac.
Detective Gina Harte has just arrived back from a holiday, she's not even had time to get changed before she's back working. Working a murder case that is not only confusing but brutal.
There are a number of characters in this book that I really didn't like. ( I don't think I was supposed to like them) You have the feeling of knowing what is going to happen, yet there is nothing you can do. This book was brilliantly written, and I'm concerned should I write any of what went on in the story, it would give away to many spoilers, and I don't want to be doing that.
What I can say is this book grips you, it keeps you going, keeps you wanting and needing more. It has you holding your breath, the suspense is wonderfully done.
Getting to know Gina Harte just that little bit more is good, I can see a lot more good coming from this character, and I for one certainly can't wait for the next instalment.

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Review: The Mum Who’d Had Enough

The Mum Who’d Had Enough by Fiona Gibson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A great light hearted, fun interesting read. When life can't be taken so seriously this is the type of book you need to escape.
Escape your mundane reality and your troubles and dive into the life of Nate and Sinead.
A perfect read for sitting in the garden with, or even curled up on the sofa, depending on the weather.
For me personally I have just gone through a hell of a time with real life, and this was my escape.

Pure escapism.


This book was so easy to follow and relate to, with laugh out moments that were priceless. There was I have to say some moments that were not quite serious, but pause for thought.

Brilliantly written, and I look forward to more from this author... I hadn't realised this author had a few other books all ready published, I will be stocking up on those.

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Review: Scandalous Lies

Scandalous Lies by Nigel May
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Just how the hell did this get lost on my kindle. I was convinced i'd read everyone of Nigel May's books when I stumbled across this one, I almost carried on past it.
I'm so glad I found it and it's obvious it's been waiting for the right time to show it's pretty little head for me to read.
Secrets, sex, scandal, Glamour this book has it all.
Imagine how delighted I was lay on a Hollywood beach reading about the people around me. About these rich and famous wannabe's. Ok skip that, I was sat in my back garden. Yet reading this book I could have almost been there. Dragged into the pages, dragged into the lives of characters.
This wasn't the 'best of Nigel's books that I have read, but it certainly wasn't far off.

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Review: The Slaughter Man

The Slaughter Man by Tony Parsons
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Thank you so much to the publisher and netgalley for allowing me to read this book in exchange my honest review.
Another book by this very talented author. Another enjoyable read. Book 2 in the DC Max Wolfe.
A character that i'm slowly getting to know and I really believe we have a lot more to learn. I'm looking forward to reading the other books.
There is always that advantage of being behind in a series, It means you can binge and play catch up.
Brilliantly paced and brilliantly written. I would have no problems recommending this series so far to anyone.

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Review: The Girl Who Wanted to Belong: Book 5: The True Story of a Devastated Little Girl and the Foster Carer who Healed her Broken Heart

The Girl Who Wanted to Belong: Book 5: The True Story of a Devastated Little Girl and the Foster Carer who Healed her Broken Heart by Angela Hart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Girl Who Wanted to Belong
The True Story of a Devastated Little Girl and the Foster Carer who Healed her Broken Heart



Book Description
The fifth book in the series by foster mum and Sunday Times bestselling author Angela Hart who, along with her husband Jonathan, has fostered more than fifty children.

I used to love reading books like this, I often dreamed of being a foster carer, I think it's an amazing job they do for young people who often need a temporary home.
There was a time I could read them and not feel so emotional. Then I had a child of my own and I got that I couldn't cope.

This one sounded great despite what the subject is, it was a fantastic read, brilliantly written and put together and totally pulling on my heart strings I found it an emotional read. But maybe I'm also in an emotional mood.


This book should come with a free box of tissues, it really got me into a totally snotty tissue fest. How one child can just need the help and support from someone who doesn't know them to help them along in life.
Oh I'm turning into a softie.

With no family to stay with, or who can look after her, and not wanting to be with her step mother and step sister 8 year old Lucy has gone into foster care. Luckily for Lucy she has been placed with wonderful and caring foster parents. Read this book and find out just what is going on in this little girls life and what these wonderful amazing foster carers do for this little girl and many other children the have cared for.


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Review: Perfect Remains

Perfect Remains by Helen Sarah Fields
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Well according to good old Amazon, I purchased this book over 12 months ago. So why am I only just reading it? As much as it gets on my nerves when I do this, it's also good because now I get to play catch up with the series.
So what does book 1 have to offer us. Well for what I believe is a debut it has everything you would expect from a established author. This doesn't read like a debut at all.
With book 4 due out soon, this writer is certainly getting the books out there for the readers to enjoy.
Enjoyment is what I think you will get reading this book, it has a great start with twists and turns that will keep you on your toes, keep you turning the pages and keep you wanting more.
This book is also a decent length, I think it's just under 400 pages so it isn't going to finish as you just get started.
Getting to know new character for me is always good, and I think here we are introduced just enough to feel you are getting to know them, but not too much that there isn't still time to learn more about them in future books. DI Luc Callanach has just joined Police Scotland, starting his new role as a new case gets going. He's hardly had time to take off his coat. A new case and a new team made this feel like the start of something good. I'm looking forward to getting stuck into the other books now.

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Review: City of Sinners

City of Sinners by A.A. Dhand
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Wowwwww What a damn good read that was. I have loved these books, this one the third in the series.
Here we are back in Bradford with DCI Harry Virdee. Harry is a superb character and one I really enjoy reading about. Not just his cases, but his personal life. Infact for me his personal life in this book was just as good as the actual story. It's fantastic when you are getting to know characters so well. I think Dhand has worked wonders creating the character of Harry Virdee.
It seems there is a killer on the streets of Bradford, and it's down to Harry to find out who it is and why they are doing it.
This is killer is really out of control, he's a sick individual killing the way he does. When another body turns up it soon becomes clear that this is linked to the first one. What have they got in common, just what is that connection.
This is easily a book that you could devour in a day long binge, but as I'd really been looking forward to this one, I took my time reading it. I actually surprised myself with my will power to read it over a few nights. It's hard going as the book is so damn good and you are dragged into each and every page, getting lost in the story.
Superbly written, Dhand has pulled out all the stops on this one, and it's easily his best one yet. If each book just gets better like they seem to be doing so far then I for one cannot wait to read the next installment. It is going to be such a damn good read, I just know it.
From the opening pages right up until the very end, it's easy to get lost in this book, it's just a superb read and my words would never do it the justice it deserves.
It's worth all 5 of the big fat 5 stars I give this book.
Outstanding, first class read.

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Review: The First One To Die

The First One To Die by Victoria Jenkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Well well, what a jolly good series this is turning into. I recently read book 1 and enjoyed it so I was really looking forward to getting stuck into this one, book 2 of the series. Sometimes being behind in a series has it's advantages. As soon as I finished this one, I went right onto book 3.
I found in this book we got to know a lot more of Alex and Chloe, i'm loving the characters they are turning into and I fell they work really well together. I'm enjoying as I always do with book series getting to know the individual characters.
In this book Alex is called out to what looks like a possible suicide or an accident of a young girl. It soon becomes clear to Alex that this is not an accident and that Keira North did not just fall to her death.
This book has some great twists and turns, a great storyline and it certainly keeps you wanting to read on, so much so that as soon as i finished it, I went right onto book 3. Lot's of secrets revealed and trouble caused. Fantastic read.

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Review: The Girls In The Water

The Girls In The Water by Victoria Jenkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sometimes falling behind in a series really does have its advantages. I have just finished this corker of a read and I get to go right into book 2.
Detectives King & Lane Book #1
This was one of those books that you know once you start it, it's going to be difficult to put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It was a book that dragged me into the pages, and didn't let me go until I got to the end. Not only is this a fab police procedural, the characters are believable and enjoyable to read about. The characters of King and Lane are ones I know I'm going to like more and more over this series. I love a series where not only do you get stuck into the crimes of each book, but you can follow the lives of the main characters to the point you really look forward to having a book reunion with them. For me these two characters are going to be book friends in future books.
The story line was first class, believable and gripping.
I really wouldn't have any problems recommending this story to anyone.
Pick it up and enjoy it.

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Review: The Girls In The Water

The Girls In The Water by Victoria Jenkins
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Sometimes falling behind in a series really does have its advantages. I have just finished this corker of a read and I get to go right into book 2.
Detectives King & Lane Book #1
This was one of those books that you know once you start it, it's going to be difficult to put it down. I thoroughly enjoyed this read. It was a book that dragged me into the pages, and didn't let me go until I got to the end. Not only is this a fab police procedural, the characters are believable and enjoyable to read about. The characters of King and Lane are ones I know I'm going to like more and more over this series. I love a series where not only do you get stuck into the crimes of each book, but you can follow the lives of the main characters to the point you really look forward to having a book reunion with them. For me these two characters are going to be book friends in future books.
The story line was first class, believable and gripping.
I really wouldn't have any problems recommending this story to anyone.
Pick it up and enjoy it.

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Review: Thirteen

Thirteen by Steve Cavanagh
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I hadn't realised when I started this book that it was actually book 4 in the Eddie Flynn series. I'm normally so good at checking things like that out before I read the book. I hate reading books that are part way through a series, I love to get to know the characters from day 1.
That said, I don't think it took to much away from the reading experience I had.

Eddie Flynn seems like a great character, the author has done brilliant with him. I enjoyed the pace of the book, the way the story flowed, a very clever plot. The writing is first class here.

I loved the idea of the killer hiding on the Jury, but couldn't understand how that would work, yet it did, it worked brilliantly.
Eddie is defending a hollywood superstar after he is charged with the murder of his wife and bodyguard.
The tension and adrenaline running though this book makes it one hell of a thrilling ride. A ride you won't want to get off.
There is so much more going on in this book, I fear going on about it to much as i'd end up giving something away and spoiling it, and we don't want now.

So what I will say is, it is well worth reading, pick it up and see for yourself.
I now feel I need to go back and read the other books, then give this one a re-read in the correct order.

I managed to read this book over the course of a day and a half. I with so many damn good books around at the moment it's a wonder I ever get chance to do anything else. I look forward to reading more from this author.

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Review: The Retreat

The Retreat by Mark Edwards
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a great read this was. I found right from the opening pages I was reading in anticipation of something happening. What a spooky little read this was, I really did think something was going to jump out of my kindle at some point.

This is easily one of those books that once you start, you know you are rarely going to be putting it down until it's finished. I managed to read the first 60% of the book while I was being a good girl and resting. Unfortunately the school decides it has to close and i'm expected to go collect my child, or i'd probably have gotten it finished that afternoon. It really does become difficult to put down. I felt it was quite a different read for me, but different not in a bad way.

I liked the characters in this book I thought they all went well together to help build the story. I especially liked Lucas, he seemed a determined character once he got something in his head, he had to act on it.
The plot was brilliantly done, Lucas has gone to a writing retreat. A beautiful relaxing getaway at this retreat in Wales. It is to help him focus and concentrate on writing his latest book. Nyth Bran seems like the perfect place for this. Only the perfect place to relax is certainly not what it turns out to be.
The Retreat is run by Julia, who is widowed after her husband dies 2 years ago, her daughter also went missing at the same time. Convince she is still alive Julia clutches at anything that will get her answers.
Lucas becomes very distracted while at the Retreat, and is interested in the tale of how Julia's daughter went missing. There seem to be some odd goings on at the Retreat and it's not the quiet chilled out place he was expecting.
Things are happening in this old house, and no one seems to have any answers as to why.

What a fantastic edge of your seat, hold your breath read this was. I found at times I really was holding my breath, it gets creepy in parts and as I said earlier i really did think something might just jump out at me. It's not a super scary book, so please don't let me put you off reading it. It has a great story line with a slightly spooky element.
​Well worth reading.

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Review: Her Name Was Rose

Her Name Was Rose by Claire Allan
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Review will be posted after blog tour.
A Great read.

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Review: Time of Death

Time of Death by Mark Billingham
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

A huge fan of this author's work, this series is brilliant. I have to say sometimes with long running series you can start to get a little fed up around this mark. Yet here we are book 13 and I'm still loving the series.
It's been a while since I read any of these, so i'm pleased I decided to play a bit of series books catch up.
Mark Billingham has written yet another belter of a book with this one. The series is just going from strength to strength.
When I started to read this, part way through I kept thinking it sounded really familiar and thought maybe I had read it previously. I carried on, then realised it was familiar as it had been on tv and we sat and watched it. Obviously the book is way better, but I did enjoy the Tv version too. It was funny as I seemed to have the images from the tv in my mind as I was reading this, and I think it helped make for great reading.

When Tom and Helen are away for a romantic weekend, they see a news story regarding and abduction. It soon transpires that the case involves someone Helen was friends with at school, and she feels she needs to go and support her. Cutting their break away short they head off to Helen's home town.
​The story is gripping and intense in parts. Really enjoyable and i'm looking forward to getting to read the next one while I play catch up.
Mark Billingham is certainly a damn good story teller.

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Review: My Sister's Grave

My Sister's Grave by Robert Dugoni
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a book i've been meaning to read for a long time. I have most of the books in the series so far, so was keen not only to start this one, but also then get all the others read.
Book 1 - My Sisters Grave, is a enjoyable read.
​Tracy Crosswhite gave up her job as a Chemist to become a Homicide Detective with Seattle PD. She has spent 20 years carrying around a guilt surrounding her sisters disappearance. This is what prompted Tracy to want to become a Detective.
Tracy has also never believed the man found guilty of her sisters murder was the correct person.
When sarah's remains are finally found near their hometown, Tracy is determined to finally get her answers.
I feel this book is just the start of what I believe is going to be a great series of books. An interesting read, will keep you guessing and wanting.

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Review: Dear Mother

Dear Mother by Angela Marsons
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I'm currently catching up on some of my older books, that for one reason or another seem to have gotten lost on my kindle.

I have to admit i read this book purely because of who the author was, I didn't know what to expect and I went in with my mind open to anything.
I knew I wouldn't be disappointed.
An amazing story of 3 sisters and their lives growing up. After the death of their mother, the estranged sisters have a chance to rebuild their relationships with each other.
Alex, Catherine and Beth. 3 totally different women have a chance to put the past behind them and bond as sisters once more. Sometimes things can't be forgotten and things that happened in childhood can rule your life as an adult.
Forced to face the truths of their upbringing, this story is an emotional read. It covers the subject of family abuse brilliantly. It's superbly written. It left me feeling like i'd really been on and emotions journey with these women.
I'm a huge fan of this author and this book show's just how good a writer she is. It's beautifully written. Please be warned you may need a box of tissues. Once started this is a very difficult book to put down.

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Review: Seeking Justice

Seeking Justice by M.A. Comley
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are anything like me and love the Justice series, then this novella is perfect to help with that Justice fix that is needed.
​​
Back in time with this one, where we get to see DI Lorne Simpkins team up again with Pete Childs, Lorne and Pete have a great working relationship and the banter between that is always brilliant. This time around the duo are searching for Kim Connell who has been reported missing by her concerned husband when she didn't return home from work.

Don't be put off with this being a novella, as usual the author manages to pack a brilliant storyline into a novella. It's fast paced and will keep your interest. Another great addition to the series.
For me personally I would say read this series in order for best results. Trust me you will not be disappointed.
​

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Review: NYPD Red 3

NYPD Red 3 by James Patterson
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

As much as I love this series, and enjoy this authors work.
For me this one just didn't get me. I wasn't gripped at all.
I'm hoping the next one is an improvement or it's a series I won't be continuing with.


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Review: The Girl With No Past

The Girl With No Past by Kathryn Croft
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I seemed to have had this book on my kindle forever, and it just started to shout out at me, READ ME.... I was actually convinced i'd read it. so it just kept getting passed by. Bad Me!
I really wasn't sure at first when I started it what I thought, and once over I felt it wasn't for me, but then I decided to carry on with it. And I'm glad I did.
Once you get into the story it does become addictive, in the sense that you can only find out what the SECRET is by reading the story, and the more you read the more you want to know.
Leah Mills is hiding from something or someone, running from the past. something has happened in her life that she is trying to forget. She is trying to live what she thinks is a normal life. She seems quite a lonely person, doesn't have any friends and certainly is trying to stay under the radar for some reason.
Until she learns that someone know's where she is, someone know's what she is doing, where and when and this is clearly someone from her past.
This really unnerves her, and trying her best to make friends she is a little put out by it.
Through the book we shoot back to Leah and friends at school and Leah and no friends in the present day. She is doing her best to find friendship, and right through the book you start to question, who is real, who can be trusted you do start to suspect everyone and knowing who to trust is hard.

This is one of those books that you need to keep reading, and reading and reading, because it's the only way you are going to find out what the secret is. What exactly has happened in Leah's past.
It is a very well put together and very well written story. I look forward to reading more from this author and catching up with other titles.

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Review: My RSPB Nature Clipboard

My RSPB Nature Clipboard by Eryl Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well if this doesn't get you out and about enjoying walks with the kids, then I don't know what will.
​This certainly gets 5 stars from us.
This really is a fabulous set. Clipboard and papers, with lots of activities to do. We absolutely loved this, we got on our wellies and headed out to the local woods. Armed with the clipboard, it's contents, we also took some crayons, pencils and some extra paper, a couple of small food bags for collecting our treasures in.
We started off looking for leaves, and collecting some of the better ones, to make a leaf collage the day after. We did bark rubbing and leaf rubbing which is something my little on hadn't done before so that was great fun. We were out for around 3 hours and clocked up just over 4 miles walking. So not only were we having fun and interacting with each other, we were exercising too.
The set is very well presented, and has a great variety of activities. you have sheets for recording the wildlife that you see, an activity sheet for drawing a map of your exploration. Bark and leaf rubbing sheets, and a whole host of other activities or ideas. You get a guide of pictures of animals, and leaves, bugs and trees to help you identify what you have seen. This also comes with a book full of nature activities, things to make and explore, from making a butterfly feeder, a bird feeder, a wormery, moth magnets. It's full of great fun exciting activities.
I really do recommend this. We've been out twice with the clipboard and really enjoyed ourselves. Now the warmer weather is coming we are going to start doing more of the activities in the book. It's a great for getting your young children learning about and talking about nature while having fun.

Thank you to Hannah at Walker books for sending us this.
​

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Review: The Killer Next Door

The Killer Next Door by Alex Marwood
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Another of my books i've been meaning to read forever. I'm finally playing catch up, for every 2 new books I read, I have to read one i've had a while. It will work for at least 3 books until I change my mind again.

It is great when you haven't read a book that you've had for ages, and then when you do, you end up really enjoying it and wishing you'd read it sooner.
This was one of those books.

What an interesting read it turned out to be. This book will have you gripped and you'll need to keep on reading right up to the very end.

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Review: Dead Man Walking

Dead Man Walking by Paul Finch
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book 4 in the DS Mark Heckenburg series. I hadn't actually realised that I was so far behind with this series. After finishing this book I also realised I hadn't read books 1 & 2. That said, it didn't take away any enjoyment I had of the book. So i would say it can be read as a stand alone. I just don't think books should be read out of order, and i'm annoyed with myself.

Heck is working as part of a village police force, a small village in Cumbria. It's a big change to his days in The Met, in London. A lot quieter of a life.
That is until two back packers go missing. When Heck gets involved he can see similarities to another case he worked. Is it his mind working overtime or could there be a link.

This was an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading many more.

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Review: Dead Man Walking

Dead Man Walking by Paul Finch
My rating: 0 of 5 stars

Book 4 in the DS Mark Heckenburg series. I hadn't actually realised that I was so far behind with this series. After finishing this book I also realised I hadn't read books 1 & 2. That said, it didn't take away any enjoyment I had of the book. So i would say it can be read as a stand alone. I just don't think books should be read out of order, and i'm annoyed with myself.

Heck is working as part of a village police force, a small village in Cumbria. It's a big change to his days in The Met, in London. A lot quieter of a life.
That is until two back packers go missing. When Heck gets involved he can see similarities to another case he worked. Is it his mind working overtime or could there be a link.

This was an enjoyable read. I look forward to reading many more.

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Review: My RSPB Nature Clipboard

My RSPB Nature Clipboard by Eryl Nash
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Well if this doesn't get you out and about enjoying walks with the kids, then I don't know what will.
​This certainly gets 5 stars from us.
This really is a fabulous set. Clipboard and papers, with lots of activities to do. We absolutely loved this, we got on our wellies and headed out to the local woods. Armed with the clipboard, it's contents, we also took some crayons, pencils and some extra paper, a couple of small food bags for collecting our treasures in.
We started off looking for leaves, and collecting some of the better ones, to make a leaf collage the day after. We did bark rubbing and leaf rubbing which is something my little on hadn't done before so that was great fun. We were out for around 3 hours and clocked up just over 4 miles walking. So not only were we having fun and interacting with each other, we were exercising too.
The set is very well presented, and has a great variety of activities. you have sheets for recording the wildlife that you see, an activity sheet for drawing a map of your exploration. Bark and leaf rubbing sheets, and a whole host of other activities or ideas. You get a guide of pictures of animals, and leaves, bugs and trees to help you identify what you have seen. This also comes with a book full of nature activities, things to make and explore, from making a butterfly feeder, a bird feeder, a wormery, moth magnets. It's full of great fun exciting activities.
I really do recommend this. We've been out twice with the clipboard and really enjoyed ourselves. Now the warmer weather is coming we are going to start doing more of the activities in the book. It's a great for getting your young children learning about and talking about nature while having fun.

Thank you to Hannah at Walker books for sending us this.
​

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Review: Blood Ties

Blood Ties by Julie Shaw
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Having just realised this was book 4, I went to double check that I was up to date with the series. Somehow i've managed to miss out book 3, but I can't see it being an issue, I feel these seem ok to be read out of order. That said, I need to read the last book to satisfy my mind. I hate reading out of order.
It also seems that these books have all had a revamp. New covers and new titles. I have to admit I love the covers now, they have a great look to them.

In this book we have a mixture of love and hate, a story of growing up and starting out a new life, learning of how to grow and understand.
Kathleen has lived with her father and evil stepmother in their home, a pub which the family run. Now at 17 Kathleen is learning just how evil her stepmother is and learning to adjust.
Finding love takes Kathleen on a whole new journey, and watching her grow into the woman she has become was interesting.
This was an easy to follow read, enjoyable. I look forward to reading more by this author.
The new covers and titles do the books more justice than the old. I just feel this book could have had so much more 'grit' thrown into it, to make it an exceptional read.


It's disappointing to see a lot of 1 star reviews for this book, it seems most of them are because the books were individually written in 3 parts to start with, so you could buy them in parts or as a full book. People not realising this then leave 1 star reviews which doesn't really reflect on the book itself.
Series
Tales of the Notorious Hudson Family
1. Our Vinnie (2014) Now. In Cold Blood
2. My Uncle Charlie (2014) Now, Blood Line
3. My Mam Shirley (2014) Now, Closer Than Blood
4. Blood Ties (2016)
5. Bad Blood (2016)
6. Blood Sisters (2017)
7. Hidden Sin (2018)

I hope I have these right. lol

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Review: The Child Next Door

The Child Next Door by Shalini Boland
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

AWowzers.... What can I say? What a book. This is certainly one of those books that keep you thinking, keep you guessing. It certainly keeps you on your toes.
Freaky, scary. kirstie is convinced she has just heard voices over her baby intercom. Frozen with fear, but knowing she has to go rescue her daughter. Her daughter is fine, fast asleep.
Kirsty becomes almost neurotic, convinced that her child is not safe, convinced someone is trying to steal her baby girl.
If her child is safe then maybe it's another child that is in danger. Kirstie is then convinced her neighbour is harbouring secrets and makes it her mission to find out what.
Is it that Kirstie is going a little deranged, imagining the worst case scenario on everything, or is she perfectly sane and the only person that can see something is not right.
Why won't people believe her, or is there anything to actually believe in.
A story that will keep you guessing, keep you wondering, it certainly keeps you turning the page. I think this book was put together brilliantly. A story that keeps you wanting more. I was holding my breath right at the beginning of this book, then it gives you an ending that leaves you thinking, What!!! Wow, I didn't see that coming.
This is a psychological thriller ​you don't want to miss.

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Review: Now You See

Now You See by Max Manning
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

​ #IKiller #Review by @Ilovereadinguk #NowYouSee #NetGalley @maxmanningcrime @headlinepg @Wildfirebks
I, Killer has posted two photos of his first victim online - Before Death and After Death. They've gone viral before DCI Fenton's team even discovers the body.
When the body is discovered, it is the body of Lauren Bishop. It's tasked to DCI Fenton and his team to try and find this killer.
#Ikiller is trending on social media and he seems to be gaining a fan club that is feeding his ego. He needs to keep his fan's happy and give them what they want, which to him means more killings, more pictures posted online.
This turned into a really good crime thriller, there was certainly enough going on to keep you interested in the story, and the odd twist to keep you guessing and leave you wanting more.
A very well put together story that I think most crime fans would enjoy. I liked how social media was used, a very up to date storyline.
DCI Fenton not only has his job to work on, he's also a single father. Balancing the job and parenting seems a little to much for him at time. I liked this aspect of the story as it made him seem more of a real person, a believable character.
I would have liked to get to know DCI Fenton a little more, I don't think we got everything about him as a person, so hopefully this is going to become a series of books where we get to know him better. I think he's going to be a great character going forward.
I look forward to reading more of this series.

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