That Face by Polly Stenham

Title: That Face
Author: Polly Stenham
Pages: 96
Genre: Play, Drama,
Book Description: 
Mia is at boarding school. She has access to drugs. They are Martha's. Henry is preparing for art college. He has access to alcohol from Martha. Martha controls their lives. Martha is their mother. 
"That Face" won the TMA Award 2007 for Best New Play. Polly Stenham received both the Charles Wintour Award 2007 and the Critics' Circle Award 2008 for Most Promising Playwright.

 Get it here | Good reads 

 My Opinion: 
This genre isn't something I would usually pick up but I'm always looking to expand my reading! This play focuses on dysfunctional family relationships and follows the lives of 2 teenagers and their mother.

I read through this really quickly because of it's form. It took a while for me to get into it but that's probably since I've rarely read plays in my free time. Thanks to this, I'm going to look out for more!

I think the most enticing  part was the characters. Due to their age and attitude, I felt I could really relate to them and their stories. Henry and Mia both have their similarities and differences, and Martha is so intriguing. There are some scenes involving her and Henry which are kind of twisted and this was something I liked due to their unexpectancy.

The intricate plot line is really easy to get into, with many twists and turns. It's realistic and gripping and perfect for a large variety of audiences. If you're interested in reading more plays or other forms of fiction, this is definitely a good place to start!

[Since this is a play, there's a theatre performance! I haven't watched it yet but the trailer looks awesome so it's something I'm going to look into. Plus it seems to have a great cast :') Links below]

 Rating ★★★★ 

4 out of 5 stars 

 Next book I'm going to review:

One Flew over the Cuckoo's Nest by Ken Kesey

The Catcher in the Rye by J.D.Salinger

Title: The Catcher in the Rye
Author: J.D Salinger
Pages: 198
Genre: Classic
Book Description:
 It begins,
"If you really want to hear about it, the first thing you'll probably want to know is where I was born and what my lousy childhood was like, and how my parents were occupied and all before they had me, and all that David Copperfield kind of crap, but I don't feel like going into it, if you want to know the truth. In the first place, that stuff bores me, and in the second place, my parents would have about two hemorrhages apiece if I told anything pretty personal about them."

His constant wry observations about what he encounters, from teachers to phonies (the two of course are not mutually exclusive) capture the essence of the eternal teenage experience of alienation.

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:
I have so much to say about this book so I'll try and keep it short and sweet. It's amazing. Even the word amazing doesn't describe how awesome it is. This is definitely in my top 10 favourite books of all time.

In this timeless classic, we follow the story of Holden Caufield, a teenager who is just trying to find his way in life. This is one of the most relatable books I've read in a long time, so I certainly recommend reading it as a teenager, and even if you're not a teenager read it anyway. I feel like this book tells me all the things no one ever told me as a teenager.

I believe this protagonist to be one of my favourite characters in literary history. He's very to the point and factual about how he feels and I love that. And depending on his environment, he can be confident/ careless or shy, so we get to see all sides of him, making him so much more real.

Inside this book, there are lots of little stories that the protagonist tells about his younger life and some of these are quite humorous. I enjoyed these a lot as well as the main story line. It's also a very easy read.

I don't have any faults to mention about this book. Overall, it's fantastic and I urge everyone to read it. It's funny and sad and very, very well written. And despite it's publication being years ago, it's still talked about now, which I think says it all! There's so much more I could say about this book, but I think I'll leave it down to you to find out:)


Favourite Quotes:

What really knocks me out is a book that, when you're all done reading it, you wish the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours and you could call him up on the phone whenever you felt like it. That doesn't happen much, though

~~~~

Don't ever tell anybody anything. If you do, you start missing everybody

~~~~

The mark of the immature man is that he wants to die nobly for a cause, while the mark of the mature man is that he wants to live humbly for one

~~~~

And I have one of those very loud, stupid laughs. I mean if I ever sat behind myself in a movie or something, I'd probably lean over and tell myself to please shut up

~~~~

People never notice anything

Rating ★★★★★ 

5 out of 5 stars 

 Next book I'm going to review:
That Face by Polly Stenham

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

Title: Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde
Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Pages: 144
Genre: Classic, Mystery
Book Description: 
In this harrowing tale of good and evil, the mild-mannered Dr. Jekyll develops a potion that unleashes his secret, inner persona—the loathsome, twisted Mr. Hyde


Get it here | Good reads


My Opinion:
This is a classical novel about Multiple Personality Disorder in which one character is good and the other is evil. This is a psychological topic that really fascinates me so it was great to read about this!

I was actually surprised by the length and how short it is. From what I'd previously heard, it sounded like it'd be a longer book but it's actually very short, meaning I was able to whiz through it in a day!

I really enjoyed reading this. There was an interesting mystery, although slightly predictable, that's understandable due to the time period it was written. I also liked the fact that we, as an audience, knew about the event (I'm trying so hard not to say spoilers hahaha!) but the characters didn't, so it was good to watch them unravel it.

The characters were well-written and I really enjoyed the differences in their personalities. The writing in this novel is fantastic. Because it's a classical novel and written in the late 1800s, I assumed that the writing would be old-fashioned and difficult to understand but it really isn't.

I certainly recommend this to anyone interested in psychological disorders as well as those that enjoy classics, short stories and mystery novels!


Favourite Quotes:

"If he be Mr. Hyde" he had thought, "I shall be Mr. Seek"

~~~~

There comes an end to all things; the most capacious measure is filled at last; and this brief condescension to evil finally destroyed the balance of my soul

~~~~

Some day...after I am dead, you may perhaps come to learn the right and wrong of this. I cannot tell you

Rating ★★★★★ 

5 out of 5 stars 

Next book I'm going to review:
The Catcher in the Rye by J.D Salinger

The Help by Kathryn Stockett

Title: The Help
Author: Kathryn Stockett
Pages: 444
Genre: Contemporary, History
Book Description:

Enter a vanished and unjust world: Jackson, Mississippi, 1962. Where black maids raise white children, but aren't trusted not to steal the silver . . .

There's Aibileen, raising her seventeenth white child and nursing the hurt caused by her own son's tragic death; Minny, whose cooking is nearly as sassy as her tongue; and white Miss Skeeter, home from College, who wants to know why her beloved maid has disappeared.

Skeeter, Aibileen and Minny. No one would believe they'd be friends; fewer still would tolerate it. But as each woman finds the courage to cross boundaries, they come to depend and rely upon one another. Each is in a search of a truth. And together they have an extraordinary story to tell...

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:
This book focuses on the treatment of black women in the 1960s, zooming in on maids of white, rich families especially. The issues raised in this novel are very important and I strongly believe everyone should read this at least once!

It's narrated by many of the different characters, which is a powerful attribute to the novel since we get to hear everyone's point of views. Also, the writing changes for each character because it's written how they speak, so the educated narrators have been written differently to those that are from other areas of Mississippi. This is a unique, linguistic feature that really helps bring the characters to life.
My favourite character was Aibileen because she's such so strong and willful, despite the hardships she's suffered. She's such an inspiration.

When I began the book, I found it to be a little slow. I stopped and started it a lot but when I had the chance to just sit down and read it, I found it very enjoyable. I read it quickly after the struggle at the beginning and would suggest that when starting this you need to be able to concentrate and have the time.

I would recommend this to perhaps an older audience, not due to the content, but so that you can fully appreciate the message. This was such an important historical event to write about and I feel that it needs to be recognised more.


Favourite Quotes:

A bitter seed was planted inside me. And I didn't feel so accepting anymore

~~~~

She like one of them baby chickens that get confused and follow the ducks around instead

~~~~

You is kind. You is smart. You is important

Rating ★★★★

4 out of 5 stars

There's also a movie based on this novel. It's a fantastic film that I saw it before I read the book. I think the film was amazing and their cast was really well chosen. I definitely recommend seeing this if you haven't already!

Next book I'm going to review:

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde by Robert Louis Stevenson

More Than This by Patrick Ness

Title: More Than This
Author: Patrick Ness
Pages: 480
Genre: Young Adult, Science-Fiction, Fantasy, Mystery
Book Description: 
A boy drowns, desperate and alone in his final moments. He dies.

Then he wakes, naked and bruised and thirsty, but alive.

How can this be? And what is this strange deserted place?

As he struggles to understand what is happening, the boy dares to hope. Might this not be the end? Might there be more to this life, or perhaps this afterlife?

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:
I've heard many fantastic things about Patrick Ness so I decided to pick up this book. Especially when I saw John Green, one of my favourite authors, had recommended it I knew it had to be good! And it was!

Straight away I was hooked. It's about a boy that dies but wakes up in another world. Here he meets some other people and together they try to discover where they are and what's going on. The constant mystery running through this book is so gripping, I couldn't put it down. Just as one mystery is revealed, another is discovered. In fact, I think I read this in almost 1 day, it's that good!

Dystopians are one of my favourite book genres, so when I saw that this had elements of that, I was over the moon. The deserted landscape, lack of civilisation and over-advanced technology are just some of the features described.

Another reason this book is amazing is due to characters. I really felt like they came off the page with their realistic personalities and deep pasts. Discovering the characters bit by bit was an interesting technique used by Ness and I feel this worked really well with the theme of the book.

Although I didn't want the book to finish, the ending was amazing. It's ambiguous and leaves the decision to the reader, which is something I really enjoy. There is definitely the potential for a series to form here ;)

This is a serious recommend from me. It's perfect for any audience, especially young adults. I loved every aspect of this and definitely indent to read more novels by him!


Favourite Quotes:

A book… it’s a world all on its own too. A world made of words, where you live for a while

~~~~

Know yourself and go in swinging

~~~~

There's always beauty, if you know where to look

~~~~

It was solitude, but it was solitude that wasn't lonely. Solitude that could sort things out. And he hadn't had that in ages.

Rating ★★★★★

5 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:
The Help by Katherine Stockett

The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan

Title: The Narrow Road to the Deep North
Author: Richard Flanagan
Pages: 448
Genre: Historical
Book Description:
A novel of the cruelty of war, and tenuousness of life and the impossibility of love.
Richard Flanagan's story — of Dorrigo Evans, an Australian doctor haunted by a love affair with his uncle's wife — journeys from the caves of Tasmanian trappers in the early twentieth century to a crumbling pre-war beachside hotel, from a Thai jungle prison to a Japanese snow festival, from the Changi gallows to a chance meeting of lovers on the Sydney Harbour Bridge.

Taking its title from 17th-century haiku poet Basho's travel journal, The Narrow Road To The Deep North is about the impossibility of love. At its heart is one day in a Japanese slave labour camp in August 1943. As the day builds to its horrific climax, Dorrigo Evans battles and fails in his quest to save the lives of his fellow POWs, a man is killed for no reason, and a love story unfolds.

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:
My English teacher recommended this book to me and I'm so glad he did! I have rather mixed feelings about it but aside from easily changeable structural factors, it was amazing! Set during the 17th century, we follow the life of Dorrigo, seeing his life as an Australia war surgeon as well as his adventures in a Japanese death camp on the Burma railway.

Because the writing in this novel is so deep and thought provoking, I found that in order to understand it, I needed to stop and then continue. The writing was phenomenal. I loved how the perspectives of the characters switched so we got to hear everyone else's experiences/feelings, not just the main protagonists.
Although I found it difficult to get into at the beginning, things began to pick up quickly and after that it was a thoroughly enjoyable read.

There were a few things I disliked however. I've encountered this in very few books but when the characters speak to one another, that author hasn't used speech marks or indentations. You only know they're spoken if it follows with 'he said' which took me a while to get used to because I'm not a fan of this type of structure.

Overall, this book was a fantastic read and rightly deserved to be the winner of the Man Booker Prize of 2014. The writing is beautiful and I felt I could really connect with the characters! Plus, there were so many meaningful and wonderful quotes that really made me think about life. I'd certainly recommend this to any one that is looking for a deep read or enjoys historical fiction like myself.


Favourite Quotes:

There are words and words and none mean anything. And then one sentence means everything

~~~~

A good book, he had concluded, leaves you wanting to reread the book. A great book compels you to reread your own soul

~~~~

He believed books had an aura that protected him, that without one beside him he would die. He happily slept without women. He never slept without a book

~~~~

Virtue was vanity dressed up and waiting for applause

~~~~

Tis not too late to seek a newer world

Rating ★★★★

4 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:
More Than This by Patrick Ness

I'm Back!

Hello everyone,

I'm awfully sorry that I haven't been active these last months. I'm still in college at the moment so I've had many exams to revise for. I'm in my last year at college now, so although I still have exams in June to study for, I feel that I have more time to read and review books! Besides, I haven't stopped reading so I have many pre-written reviews to publish, meaning I'll hopefully still be posting content despite not having enough time to read later in the year!

Book blogging is a hobby of mine however I found that trying to write and post weekly reviews, reading and studying for 4 subjects was becoming a lot of effort and this started to get stressful. I decided to take a break but now I feel like I have the time! I hope you understand.

If any of you are still around and following me, I really appreciate your faith. I'm going to be posting reviews weekly from now on! Please share and remind people that I'm still alive;)

Thanks again, see you next week with a new review!

Jennie

Phoenix Rising by Bryony Pearce | Blog Tour

Title: Phoenix Rising

Author: Bryony Pearce

Pages: 368

Genre: Dystopian, Science-Fiction, Young Adult

Book Description:

In a future world where fossil fuels have run out and democracy has collapsed, an outlawed pirate crew fight for survival on their ship, the Phoenix, kept afloat by whatever they can salvage or scavenge on the debris-filled seas. Toby has never known anything other than life onboard the Phoenix and he's desperate for adventure. But when trouble comes hunting the Phoenix down, Toby realizes that what you wish for isn't always what you want. He meets beautiful Ayla from the Banshee, a rival pirate ship and sworn enemy of the Phoenix, and his world is thrown into disorder. How can he know who to trust and what to believe? The future rests on him making an impossible choice...

Get it here | Good reads 

I received a physical copy of this novel from the author and the wonderful people at Little Tiger Press (Stripes publishing) in return for an honest review! I'd like to say a special thanks to them for allowing me to be a part of the tour!

My Opinion:

Phoenix Rising is the first novel in a new series for young adults and I have to say I really enjoyed it! It takes place in an honest and predictable future where society is experiencing political collapse due to the exploitation of fossil fuels.

This novel begins with a fantastic start! I was immediately hooked and full of anticipation. As expected, this remained throughout the novel, with a fast paced action and constant thrill. I really enjoyed this factor.
The ending was amazing and I particularly loved the cliff hanger. Luckily the sequel to this is being published soon so I don't have long to wait to find out what happened to the characters and join them on another adventure, that I'm sure is going to be equally intriguing!

The characters were awesomely written, full of bravery and independence. I felt easily connected to them and really enjoyed seeing how they all developed and changed. Despite it being predictable, I did like the romance featured, which provides something for everyone, not only thrilling action and fighting!
The unexpected twists in the story line kept me on my toes as I was constantly wondering which characters could be trusted!
My favourite had to be Hiko because he was so adorable and strong. He takes on his role very well and reminds me of someones little brother!

Overall, this is a really well-written novel with a strong message about the future of our planet! Being a lover of pirate films, I found this read very enjoyable and it's so good to see pirate novels being written as these are awfully rare! I'd definitely recommend this to young teenagers as it's definitely something I'd have enjoyed at a younger age.
I can't wait for the next novel in the series, released in March 2016!

P.S I'm part of the Banshee Crew; I'd love to know which team you're part of so let me know in the comments!

Favourite Quotes:

If you want some kind of simpering damsel in distress, you're looking the wrong direction

~~~~

  Rating ★★★★

4 out of 5 stars 

 Next book I'm going to review:
The Narrow Road to the Deep North by Richard Flanagan

The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories by Tim Burton

Title: The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories
Author: Tim Burton
Pages: 128
Genre:
Book Description:
From breathtaking stop-action animation to bittersweet modern fairy tales, filmmaker Tim Burton has become known for his unique visual brilliance – witty and macabre at once. Now he gives birth to a cast of gruesomely sympathetic children – misunderstood outcasts who struggle to find love and belonging in their cruel, cruel worlds. His lovingly lurid illustrations evoke both the sweetness and the tragedy of these dark yet simple beings – hopeful, hapless heroes who appeal to the ugly outsider in all of us, and let us laugh at a world we have long left behind (mostly anyway)


Get it here | Good reads




My Opinion:
I'm a huge fan of Tim Burton's films so when I came across this I knew I had to pick it up. It's a collection of short poems along with doodles drawn by the author himself.

It's such an awesome collection of poems/stories. If you love his films (my favourites are The Nightmare Before Christmas and Edward Scissorhands) then you'll love this. It's creepy and depressing but very funny and unique!

I loved how each character was different and had their own unfortunate events occur and although the stories aren't much longer than a page or two, they're cute and disturbing and I just really enjoyed reading it.

I don't have much to say other than that I wish the book had been longer because it was a quick and enjoyable read!
I would recommend this to anyone that likes creepy things, poetry and short stories or just simply enjoys Tim Burton's work.

Rating ★★★★★

5 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:
Phoenix Rising by Bryony Pearce (Blog Tour)

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

Title: The Night Circus
Author: Erin Morgenstern
Pages: 490
Genre: Fantasy, Young Adult, Mystery
Book Description:
The circus arrives without warning. No announcements precede it. It is simply there, when yesterday it was not. Within the black-and-white striped canvas tents is an utterly unique experience full of breathtaking amazements. It is called "Le Cirque des Reves," and it is only open at night.

But behind the scenes, a fierce competition is underway--a duel between two young magicians, Celia and Marco, who have been trained since childhood expressly for this purpose by their mercurial instructors. Unbeknownst to them, this is a game in which only one can be left standing, and the circus is but the stage for a remarkable battle of imagination and will. Despite themselves, however, Celia and Marco tumble headfirst into love - a deep, magical love that makes the lights flicker and the room grow warm whenever they so much as brush hands.

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:

I have mixed opinions about this book. I did really enjoy it but I didn't manage to get into the plot and characters as quickly as I was hoping. I heard a lot about it and saw many 5 star reviews so I picked it up but I don't think it was as good as everyone said.

So, to get the bad things out of the way, I found it a little slow. I got into it straight away at the beginning and I sped through the ending but the middle, I found, was quite boring. Not much happened and I think it took a while to get down to business with everything.
Secondly, I think I would have enjoyed this if I had read it when I was younger. It's probably aimed at more of a younger audience (12-15year olds probably) and I found a lot of the stuff to not interest me as much. Although I really love fantasy, this didn't meet my expectations.

Anyway, onto the better parts. I really liked the creativity that went into this novel. The details about the circus were really believable and I loved the style of writing. All the characters were really well designed and the overall plot was fantastic.
My favourite part was probably the ending. It had a nice twist to it and it matched the fairy-take-esk genre of the novel with everyone living happily ever after. I also liked how it came back around in a full circle. It was really well written by the author.

Overall I think I would have enjoyed this more if the pace during the middle of the novel was quicker and if I had been younger. I'm late to the party but I'm glad I have read it because it was a really good book, just personally not my style anymore:)

Favourite Quotes:

'We cannot feel the bars unless we push against them'

~~~~

'People see what they wish to see. And in most cases, what they are told that they see'

~~~~

'The finest of pleasures are always the unexpected ones'

~~~~

'Most maidens are perfectly capable of rescuing themselves in my experience, at least the ones worth something'

~~~~

'But dreams have ways of turning into nightmares'

~~~~

'The most difficult thing to read is time. Maybe because it changes so many things'

Rating ★★★

3.5 out of 5 stars

Next Book I'm going to Review:
The Melancholy Death of Oyster Boy and Other Stories by Tim Burton

The Sleeper and the Spindle by Neil Gaiman

Title: The Sleeper and the Spindle
Author: Neil Gaiman
Pages: 69
Genre: Fairytale, Fantasy, Graphic Novel
Book Description:
A thrillingly reimagined fairy tale from the truly magical combination of author Neil Gaiman and illustrator Chris Riddell – weaving together a sort-of Snow White and an almost Sleeping Beauty with a thread of dark magic, which will hold readers spellbound from start to finish. 

On the eve of her wedding, a young queen sets out to rescue a princess from an enchantment. She casts aside her fine wedding clothes, takes her chain mail and her sword and follows her brave dwarf retainers into the tunnels under the mountain towards the sleeping kingdom. This queen will decide her own future – and the princess who needs rescuing is not quite what she seems. Twisting together the familiar and the new, this perfectly delicious, captivating and darkly funny tale shows its creators at the peak of their talents.

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:
I love a lot of Neil's novels and when I saw this in my local book store I couldn't resist picking it up. The artwork on the cover is so beautiful and I'm a huge fan of Chris Riddell's artwork anyway. This image shows as much justice as possible, but the cover is so much more beautiful in person - the gold is shiny in the light!
I'm also a huge fan of fairytales and when I saw that this linked two of my favourites, I knew I had to get it.

The artwork is the main reason I bought this edition. It's so beautiful and the colour scheme, a simple black, white and gold, is magnificent. I love how the illustrations match the slightly Gothic and creepy story line.

What I love most about this, other than the artwork, is that it has a really interesting ending. It's unexpected and perfect and I really, really liked the twist. All I can say without giving too much away is that it is the complete opposite of your normal and well-known fairytales.

I definitely recommend this book to everyone. It's a short read and it was quite expensive for what it is, but the illustrations and fairytale inspired story are certainly worth it. I'm glad to add this novel to my collection of 'extremely pretty and do not destroy' books!;)


Favourite Quotes:

But the path to her death, heartbeat by heartbeat, would be inevitable

Rating ★★★★★

5 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:

The Night Circus by Erin Morgenstern

The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton

Title: The Miniaturist
Author: Jessie Burton
Pages: 416
Genre: Fantasy, Historical, Mystery, Contemporary
Book Description:
On an autumn day in 1686, eighteen-year-old Nella Oortman knocks at the door of a grand house in the wealthiest quarter of Amsterdam. She has come from the country to begin a new life as the wife of illustrious merchant trader Johannes Brandt, but instead she is met by his sharp-tongued sister, Marin. Only later does Johannes appear and present her with an extraordinary wedding gift: a cabinet-sized replica of their home. It is to be furnished by an elusive miniaturist, whose tiny creations mirror their real-life counterparts in unexpected ways . . .

Nella is at first mystified by the closed world of the Brandt household, but as she uncovers its secrets she realizes the escalating dangers that await them all. Does the miniaturist hold their fate in her hands? And will she be the key to their salvation or the architect of their downfall?

Get it here | Good reads 

My Opinion:
This book was amazing! I thoroughly enjoyable read that meets all expectations. It was mysterious and creepy and I was always left waning to read on.

As soon as I started reading I was hooked. Throughout the novel I was left in suspense and Jessie did a fabulous job of keeping my intrigued! The mystery was very well inter weaved and I really enjoyed the slow and unexpected revelation that followed.

This brings me onto the plot. Just by the synopsis, I was curious and felt like this was exactly a type of book I would enjoy and boy was I right! The characters were really well written and I especially loved the anonymity of the miniaturist. And to make it better, there were tones of really unexpected twists all throughout the story. The ending was probably the biggest twist because, although the clues were there, I didn't pick up on them and was just gobsmacked. The ending was so good and I'm kinda sad I finished it.

I really, really enjoyed this book and I recommend it to anyone that enjoyed fantasy or novels with lots of mystery. This is not only a YA novel but is perfect for adults as well so I encourage everyone to read it. The main reason I picked it up is because the cover is stunningly beautiful and it's part of Richard and Judy's Book Club!
Overall, this is an amazing book, one I would certainly re-read, and I'm definitely looking forward to reading more novels by Jessie in the future!


Favourite Quotes:

If you believe that building is the safer spot, I am not the one to set you free

~~~~

The bars on your cage are of your own making

~~~~

'Where is home?'
'I don't know. Where comfort is. And that is hard to find'

~~~~

A lifetime isn't long enough to know how a person will behave

~~~~

In suffering we find out true selves

~~~~

It is a deceptive quiet, as if the house itself is breathing

Rating ★★★★★

5 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:
The Sleeper and the Spindle by Neil Gaiman

Killing The Dead by Marcus Sedgwick

Title: Killing The Dead
Author: Marcus Sedgwick
Pages: 117
Genre: Young Adult, Fantasy, Paranormal
Book Description:
Set in a girls' boarding school in Massachusetts a haunting and sinister YA story for World Book Day from prize-winning author Marcus Sedgwick.
1963. Foxgrove School near Stockbridge, Massachusetts. One of the oldest and finest academies in the country - but what really goes on behind closed doors? Nathaniel Drake, the new young English teacher, Isobel Milewski, the quiet girl who loved to draw spirals, her fingers stained with green ink, Jack Lewis, who lent Isobel books - just words, just ink on paper, Margot Leya, the girl with those eyes - who are they, what part have they played in killing the dead? 
Follow the dark, dark path Into the dark, dark woods To the dark, dark bridge By the dark, dark water. Linger. Let the ghosts of heaven tell their story. A stylish and creepy story for World Book Day from prize-winning author Marcus Sedgwick

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion: 
I read White Crow by Marcus back in high school and I remember really enjoying it so for World Book Day I decided to use my £1 token on this! It's a really short book so I managed to read it in an hour!

It was a really good short story. There was a lot of mystery in the beginning and it was quite dark which are two genres I really enjoy.
There was a really shocking and powerful twist at the end that I was not expecting at all. I thought the ending was going to be really predicable but it wasn't at all so that was awesome!

The only thing I disliked was how the narrative's perspectives switched between the chapters because it was a little confusing and because the book was so short, I didn't really have time to get used to it.

Altogether I would definitely recommend this. Because it's so short, you could read it really quickly to just pass the time and it would be very worth while. I think short stories are one of the hardest forms of fiction to write and Marcus did a really good job!

Favourite Quotes:

Just ink on paper, that's all books are, just ink on paper

~~~~

The most important person in this story is the one you'll never meet

Rating ★★★★

4 out of 5 stars 

Next book I'm going to review:

The Miniaturist by Jessie Burton

Sane New World by Ruby Wax

Title: Sane New World, Taming The Mind
Author: Ruby Wax
Pages: 256
Genre: Self-Help, Science, Psychology, Health, Biography
Book Description: Ruby Wax - comedian, writer and mental health campaigner - shows us how our minds can jeopardize our sanity.

With her own periods of depression and now a Masters from Oxford in Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy to draw from, she explains how our busy, chattering, self-critical thoughts drive us to anxiety and stress.

If we are to break the cycle, we need to understand how our brains work, rewire our thinking and find calm in a frenetic world.

Helping you become the master, not the slave, of your mind, here is the manual to saner living

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:

I picked this book up because I'm interested in psychology and was hoping to understand myself better. I can happily say this has been achieved.

I only know Ruby Wax as a comedian so I was intrigued to see what she'd be like as an author. This book has many humorous parts which lightens the mood. She manages to speak openly and honestly about her experience which is really helpful for the reader as it give us an accurate insight into the mental illness of depression.

At first I was cautious because I've read a book similar to this in the past and I found it quite difficult to understand. However this book was really easy to read and it had little diagrams on some of the confusing parts. When the brain functions were explained there were quirky images to show what parts were where and I found this very helpful!

I also really enjoyed reading the exercises towards the end. These were ways of dealing with over thinking and negative thoughts and I personally found them very useful. They weren't complicated and easily doable everyday and if one method didn't rock your boat, you could just use another technique because she offered many exercises for everyone.
Secondly a lot of information was provided abut mindfulness and cognitive therapy. This was useful because if you didn't like the idea of practicing mindfulness, there were other options too. A lot of statistics were used to support the research and methods she'd given which were reliable and accurate. 

Overall, I found this book very easy to read and the topic was really something I found interesting. I knew some of the basics anyway because I'm studying psychology at college but it was nice to dig a little deeper and learn abut the body and brain.. I think I learned a lot from reading this and would recommend it to anyone who struggles with mental health, wants to find out more about the topic, or is interested to learn about the concept of mindfulness.

 Rating ★★★

 3 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:
Killing The Dead by Marcus Sedgwick

What Lies Between by Charlena Miller | Co-Review

Title: What Lies Between
Author: Charlena Miller
Pages: 336
Genre: Mystery, Romance, Contemporary
Book Description:
Trust has never come easily to Ellie Jameson. A broken past taught her that self-reliance is the only option—no one sticks around for the long haul. When a fateful letter arrives with news of an unexpected inheritance, she sees a silver lining in the tragedy that seems to follow her. Anxious to leave American city life for the rugged Scottish Highlands, she sets off to claim her fate in a whirlwind of determination. Captivated by the land of stunning lochs, fiery whisky, and a particularly charming Highland local, it seems things may finally be turning around . . .

But nothing could have prepared Ellie for what awaits at the Glenbroch estate, where she soon discovers very little is as it seems. The rugged, romantic Highlands harbor old secrets and vengeful enemies, entangling her in a web of lies and betrayal. As the line between ally and enemy blurs, Ellie is in danger of forfeiting her inheritance—as well as her heart.

Get it here | Good reads

I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is my own opinion and will not be affected by this.

I want to start this off by thanking Charlena for sending me an ebook copy of this book to read and review. Tika and I decided to come up with some questions (My thoughts on the left and hers on the right) so here's our co-review:

Initial thoughts

Jennie

When I began reading this I wasn't too impressed. There was a lot of description and I felt that caused the story line to drag on a lot, plus it was quite slow in general. However the pace did pick up and I began to feel more intrigued about the mystery and I really enjoyed the romance between Ben and Ellie.

Tika

I was quite impressed to be honest. Diving into the book, I didn't really know exactly what to expect, mainly because the novel itself wasn't a popular title, & I hadn't heard any opinions of it prior to receiving my copy for review. After a few chapters, I was so surprised to discover that What Lies Between wasn't the coming-of-age, self-discovery adult novel I assumed it would be. (In some ways it was) Instead it was a wonderful contemporary, with a ton of mystery/suspense elements blended in. I was definitely not expecting that.

Concept/Writing

Besides the large amounts of description, I really liked Charlena's writing style. I was really curious as to what was going to happen once the pace kicked in and the mystery kept me hanging on. The beginning was a little slow for me and certain parts throughout (e.g the middle) but I really enjoyed the ending.

The writing was definitely a bit up and down for me. It was beautiful, I most certainly can't deny that, but the descriptive text was very hard to get into for half of the book. I think it was more so a dense and heavy read, which caused the story to drag through a couple of chapters, but once you push through that, it begins to lighting up. Either that or you get used to it. I really enjoyed Charlena's ability to allow us readers to feel as if we were in Scotland alongside the characters. From her experience being in the country and her descriptions, you were truly able to see how wonderful the culture is, and how friendly and hardworking the natives seem to be. With the story dragging in some places, but with the writing being so vivid and engrossing, I'd have to say the writing/plot was more so a hit, than a miss. 

Characters

I thought the characters were really well written. I loved seeing how the characters unfolded and how their true personalities started showing as the novel progressed. I think my favourite character was Ben, he was so charming and romantic and really lovely. He never gave up trying to prove things to Ellie, despite their quarrel early in the beginning. I liked how the characters weren't always what I expected and they were all rather unpredictable.

I think because Ellie was one of those characters who didn't really let people in, and had a hard time trusting others, it really made you think all of the characters were shady lol. I spent half of the book side-eyeing everyone, because I couldn't tell right away who was being honest & loyal. I did however, have a hunch that Ben MacIver, (the son of the John is who trying to steal the estate from Ellie) was being truthful throughout the entire story. He just had such a genuine air to him, that I would have been blindsided if he turned out to be any different. As weird things started happening to Ellie, such as her being ran off the road by a mysterious driver, I started looking at everyone with close eyes. Sadly not too many of the characters are rememberable, but I will say my favorite was Ben. I loved how he didn't stop proving to Ellie that he didn't have a hand in any of the dirt surrounding the estate, (not literally dirt guys lol) and their romance ended up being one of my favorite aspects of this story. I also enjoyed the friendships Ellie formed with Ben's mother Anna, she was such a sweet woman, and no-nonsense Maggie, who made the perfect friend.

Likes/dislikes

I really, really enjoyed the ending! It was so unexpected and I was not ready for what unraveled. The story line was also really intriguing and there were many twists that kept me hooked. The mystery was also created really well because even at the end when the truth was discovered, I still hadn't predicted what was going to happen!

The only thing I didn't like was the structure. The novel took a while to get into the basic plot and there was a section in the middle where I wasn't as intrigued. But then there was a very good twist and things picked up again so it has it's goods and bads!

As I mentioned before, I truly loved how Charlena was able to give us a taste of Scotland in just a few pages. I loved the descriptions of the foothills, even the grass was vividly described. I loved the language, which I attempted to pronounce and failed horribly, and I loved the talk of food! A Scotland holiday causes for a ton of food, whiskey ( a never put a little water in my whiskey, might have to try it) and wonderful people. It's definitely a country I would love to visit.

My only dislike to this story would be how it dragged in multiple places. It wasn't anything serious that would cause you to put the book down and DNF it, but you will have to be in the mood for a more heavier storyline if you want to truly enjoy this book.

Overall thoughts/rating

It's a bit of a love-hate relationship with this book. I really liked the characters and the suspense that was incorporated the whole way through however the structure and description slowed things down for me. Overall I would recommend it to those who like mystery, but prefer something with a slower pace. 3.5 STARS

I would recommend What Lies Between to any reader that enjoys a great Adult Contemporary. It consisted of all the elements I enjoy in Adult, rich culture in an amazing setting, a good mystery, and a slow-burn romance, so it's definitely worthy of what I call a pass-along.

Now for my dilemma. This story definitely ended up being a bit difficult to rate. My thoughts are very much still conflicted, mainly because of the dragging -- it took me a week in a half to finish, but I'm leaning towards 4 STARS since it still managed to be such a pleasurable read.

Next book I'm going to review:
Sane New World by Ruby Wax

Maus I; A Survivors Tale: My Father Bleeds History by Art Spiegelman

Title: Maus I; A Survivors Tale: My Father Bleeds History 
Author: Art Spiegelman
Pages: 160
Genre: Graphic novel, History
Book Description: 
A story of a Jewish survivor of Hitler's Europe and his son, a cartoonist who tries to come to terms with his father's story and history itself.

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:
Holocaust Memorial day recently passed and I felt like I should read this graphic novel. I've heard a lot of good things about it so when I saw it in my local library I decided to pick it up.

I think this book was extremely well written so I understand why it's critically acclaimed, however I feel like it didn't do as much for me as I hoped.
I thought the art work was amazing. I liked how it was in black and white as I felt like this linked well with the story and the meaning behind it, how those people had no colour in their lives due to the horrific events they experienced.

The idea of having the Jews as mice and Nazi's as cats was a really creative and unique idea which I thoroughly enjoyed. I think this brought a lot to the book as meaning behind it is very powerful.
I also liked how the story line switched from past to present so we got to see what his father was like in the past, as well as how he acted in the present. It was interesting to see how those events had shaped/impacted his life.

Although I really enjoyed this book, I didn't find it as amazing as I was hoping it to be. I might pick up the second book in the series but I'm not desperate to read it. I would recommend it if you enjoy historical/biographical novels or are just interested in the topic. This was a quick and interesting read, certainly something I would recommend.

Rating ★★★

3 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:
What Lies Between by Charlena Miller

Swoonuary Wrap Up

So the month of February is over and I can happily wrap up this months reads. The Bookish Groupies and I attempted a reading challenge where we had to read only romance/contemporary novels for the month.

The books I aimed to read:

1) An Abundance of Katherines by John Green

2) Bad Romeo by Leisa Rayven [READ ALONG]

3) Never Never by Colleen Hoover

If I manage to get onto a fourth book...
4) Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire

The books I ended up reading:

1) An Abundance of Katherines by John Green

4/5 

2) Bad Romeo by Leisa Rayven [READ ALONG]
4/5

3) Never Never by Colleen Hoover
5/5

4) The Shock of the Fall by Nathan Filer
5/5

5) The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Nighttime by Mark Haddon
5/5

6) Daughter by Jane Shemilt
5/5

I managed to read 3/4 of the books on my list which I'm very happy with. At some points I didn't stick to the theme of romance and took the more contemporary route but I am pleased with the amount of books I read!

A huge thank you to everyone that joined our event! It's been great fun and I look forward to doing more in the future :)

Daughter by Jane Shemilt

Title: Daughter
Author: Jane Shemilt
Pages: 390
Genre: Mystery, Crime, Thriller, Contemporary
Book Description: 
Jenny is a successful family doctor, the mother of three great teenagers, married to a celebrated neurosurgeon.

But when her youngest child, fifteen-year-old Naomi, doesn’t come home after her school play, Jenny’s seemingly ideal life begins to crumble. The authorities launch a nationwide search with no success. Naomi has vanished, and her family is broken.

As the months pass, the worst-case scenarios—kidnapping, murder—seem less plausible. The trail has gone cold. Yet for a desperate Jenny, the search has barely begun. More than a year after her daughter’s disappearance, she’s still digging for answers—and what she finds disturbs her. Everyone she’s trusted, everyone she thought she knew, has been keeping secrets, especially Naomi. Piecing together the traces her daughter left behind, Jenny discovers a very different Naomi from the girl she thought she’d raised.

Get it here | Good reads

My Opinion:
This genre is one of my favourite types to read so I was really inclined to read it. Then when I saw the quote from Tess Gerritsen at the bottom I had to buy it because I love Tess' crime novels! I have to say this was a great read and it definitely did what it set out to do.

I was constantly intrigued when reading Daughter. The beginning was straight to the event and quite fast paced. I remember there was a small section in the middle that was a bit slow as things were being described and explained but that's irrelevant because a really unexpected twist occurred afterward! I ended up reading this into early hours of the morning to finish it and the ending was sad but unexpected! I have so many unanswered questions; It was frustrating to end it so ambiguously but it was so good at the same time and I definitely think there's room for a sequel here...

The main thing I liked about this novel was the writing style. You get a clear sense of the mother's feelings (as it's written in her point of view) and there's a strong connection between her and her daughter. I can feel the heartache and panic and curiosity the mother is going through and that was a really personal touch that I enjoyed.

I also liked how it switched tense. This happened very often at the beginning but they gaps between got longer as the story line expanded. I think this worked very well as it incorporated past and present occurrences.

Altogether I would definitely recommend this novel. It includes suspense, mystery and heartache (I may or may not have teared up a little at the end....) An all round great book with accuracy and deals with real-life issues. It's perfect for those who love unexpected twists and tension!

Rating ★★★★★

5 out of 5 stars

Next book I'm going to review:
Maus I; A Survivors Tale: My Father Bleeds History by Art Spiegelman