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Book Review // Blog Tour: “Despite The Falling Snow” by Shamim Sarif

Title: Despite The Falling Snow

Author: Shamim Sarif

Published: April 7th, 2016

Publisher: John Blake Publishing

Find the Author: Goodreads


I received this book for review! As always, my reviews are fair and unbiased.

From the award winning literary novelist comes a breathtaking story of love and betrayal in Soviet Russia…

In 1950s Moscow, model communist Katya secretly spies for the Americans in the Cold War arms race. When she lands her biggest assignment, stealing secrets from rising government star Alexander, the last thing she expects is to fall in love with him.
Reconciling her beliefs with her love for Alexander means a choice – between continuing her secretive work or continuing under threat of blackmail. But Katya’s determination to live honestly with her husband comes too late – for he has unknowingly alerted the government to a leak, putting them both in danger of capture and death.
Decades later in the United States, Alexander has built a successful business empire. A kind, passionate man, he has managed to bury the tragic memories of his early life in Soviet Russia with his charismatic late wife, Katya.
But into his life come two women. One begins to open up the heart he has kept protected for so long. The other, his niece Lauren, is determined to uncover the truth about what really happened to Katya all those years ago.
The story’s journey back to 1950s Moscow takes us into a world of true love lost, and of friendships betrayed. For only by confronting the past can Alexander move on to his future.

Firstly, Despite The Falling Snow isn’t my usual type of read. I usually reach for YA and contemporary fluffy romance stories, but something about this book just sparkled and since I’ve started reading more Historical novels, I thought it would be a perfect twist in my reading patterns. 

We’re in 1950’s Moscow and I can picture the sight with the gentle and fitting way Shamim describes it. Model communist Katya, one of the main fixtures of the novel, spies for America during the Cold War arms race. She’s a bold, lively character who stood out the most. She’s intriguing and interesting, but complex at the same time which made her story all the more believable. 
Soon enough, she gets a big task that will ask a lot of her. She must steal secrets from ascending government stand-out; Alexander. But then she falls in love with him, for real, and things are no longer clean-cut. She’s faced with a choice between continuing her work and abandoning it with the risks and threats that came with it. Even death.
Flash-forward many years into the future and in Boston, Alexander has built himself to be the charismatic, business-minded founder of a huge empire. He’s managed to stray from his memories of Soviet Russia with Katya, but he hasn’t strayed from a complex life. Into it comes his niece and another woman, one who begins to mend the heart that is still tainted by the image of Katya and pained by his past. 
Despite The Falling Snow is a story about love lost, about tragedy and overcoming the flames that poured down on Alexander’s past. There’s a hint of mystery, swirled with romance and politics and the emotional ties that bind the characters in the past, present and future. I was pulled into the novel easily and it seemed so effortless that the novel seemed so real. Overall, Despite The Falling Snow is a brilliantly written novel with striking characters and believable, refreshing backdrop. I can see just how amazing this will be as a movie (coming soon!) and just how picturesque and compelling it will be on the big screen.  
Fans of Adult Contemporary fiction, Historical and Romance. Don’t forget: UK FILM RELEASE 15th APRIL! 

Shamim Sarif is an award winning novelist, screenwriter and film director. Her first novel The World Unseen won both the Pendleton May First Novel Award and Betty Trask Award. Shamim adapted the book for film herself, both writing the screenplay and directing the film, alongside her partner Hanan who produced the film which went on to win 23 awards internationally. Her second novel I Can’t Think Straight was also made into a film by Shamim winning 11 awards. 
In 2016 Altitude Films will release Despite The Falling Snow as a major motion picture staring Charles Dance (Game of Thrones) and Rebecca Ferguson (Mission Impossible) with title song by Ella Henderson and score by Oscar winning composer Rachel Portman (Emma, Chocolate).
Shamim has spoken at TED events in London, Jerusalem and India. In 2008, Shamim received the AfterEllen Visibility Award as International Lesbian/Bi Woman of the Year. Shamim and her partner Hanan are founders of the Sarif-Kattan Foundation, focusing on empowering and educating women and children across the globe. Hanan works alongside Shamim producing all of the films that Shamim directs. Shamim and Hanan live in London with their two teenage sons. 
                       Don’t forget to check out the other tour dates below!

Have you read Despite The Falling Snow?


What did you think?


Let me know in the comments or @LittleMemoirs on twitter!


happy reading!

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Book Review: The Last Thing I Remember by Deborah Bee

Title: The Last Thing I Remember

Author: Deborah Bee

Published: February 25th, 2016

Publisher: Twenty7

Find the Author: Goodreads


I received this book for review! As always, my reviews are fair and unbiased.

For fans of Rubbernecker and Before I Go To Sleep, a tense thriller with a clever and original premise – and a devilish twist

Sarah is in a coma.
Her memory is gone – she doesn’t know how she got there. And she doesn’t know how she might get out.
But then she discovers that her injury wasn’t an accident. And that the assailant hasn’t been caught.
Unable to speak, see or move, Sarah must use every clue that she overhears to piece together her own past.
And work out who it is that keeps coming into her room.
A novel that grips from the very beginning and that will live long in the memory, The Last Thing I Remember is Deborah Bee’s startling debut thriller.

I’m a HUGE mystery fan, first and foremost, so when I was approached about The Last Thing I Remember and it was compared to Before I Go To Sleep (one of the best of THE best) I jumped at the chance to read it.

Sarah is in a coma. She doesn’t know how and she doesn’t know why she is there, or any of the events of her life that brought her to this moment. She is aware of the world around her and is totally concious of people surrounding her, but she can’t move or show them that she can. What frightens her more than the masses of memory loss is that she can’t piece together who keeps visiting her, knowing that it wasn’t an accident from information around her gathered, and that whoever did hurt her, hasn’t been caught. 
Teenager Kelly, our other narrator, knows Sarah well, being her next door neighbour’s daughter. She plays a huge part in the chapters, not only from her knowledge but as a close person to Sarah. The way their lives intertwined was peculiar at first but that outlook vanishes as the novel weaves new insight into light and through the messy, brilliant revelations, a whole world of startling discoveries and pasts come to life. 
The question that hangs in the air is; will the truth ever be revealed? Sarah becomes more panicked by the second, unable to communicate her terror except with us as the readers. Whereas I felt I couldn’t relate to Kelly in parts, she plays a valued part of the novel as we learn more of Sarah’s story and how finally the truth can be dug up, I did find I could feel the pain of Sarah who struggled to cling onto any shred of life and hope she had for the truth to come out. 
Overall, The Last Thing I Remember is a truly enthralling piece of literature. I recently heard it might be turned into a TV show or movie and I can definitely see how this is going to grip any audience. Without giving away too much (because where’s the fun in that? a mystery should stay a mystery until you read it) you must read this book. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, compelling edge-of-your-seat psychological thriller then you’ve found your new read. 

Fans of mystery and thriller, older YA and Adult.



Deborah Bee studied fashion journalism at Central St Martins. She has worked at various magazines and newspapers including Vogue, Cosmopolitan, The Times and the Guardian as a writer, a fashion editor and later an editor. Currently, she is a Creative Director in luxury retail.

Have you read/heard of The Last Thing I Remember?


Tell me what you thought in the comments or at @LittleMemoirs on twitter!


happy reading!

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Book Review: “Letter From Paris” by Thérèse

Title: Letter from Paris

Author: Thérèse

Published: June 10th, 2014

Publisher: The Story Plant

Find the Author: Goodreads


I recieved this for review. As always, my reviews are fair and unbias!



India Butler’s journey to America put her life on a new track. Now a trip to Paris threatens to derail her – or to make things all they are supposed to be. With a new job, a new friend, a potential new lover…and an old lover, India is dealing with nearly as much as she can handle. But that’s only the beginning.

The infectious sequel to India’s Summer, Letter From Paris is witty, glamorous, incisive, and refreshingly real.

 Having not read India’s Summer, the previous book about India Butler, I lost a little of that “before” chapter of her life, but after brushing up on India’s Summer, I felt like I gained a little insight on India’s life before reading Letter from Paris.

From Los Angeles to Paris, Thérèse takes India to a new scene with new sights, adventures and travel. Having a fresh look on India having not known her character in India’s Summer, I grew to see her character within the first few chapters as highly like-able (I can see why Thérèse’s novels are so popular with celebrities alike) and balanced person in life. I loved that as I was reading, I was aware that I didn’t have to read the first novel in the series to understand India and grew to know her characters quirks and ways; her humour and poise especially. 
As Letter From Paris delves into the story, we learn some secrets from India’s Summer and get straight into India’s growth as a person. Suddenly, we’re whisked away to Paris on streets I’ve never heard of but want to go to and descriptions of adventures I could only dream of. Not only does India’s life burst full of love and light, but romance and drama as the story progresses into personal and business relationships of conflict and mystery – above all, India trying to stay true to who she is and what she truly wants out of life. 
In a word, I would call Letter From Paris a book about change – change in surroundings, thoughts, life and relationships – and I truly admired Thérèse for how beautifully effortless she wrote India’s journey. The things that are thrown into the works of her life and as a reader, I wished they could ricochet off her and she could trudge through them over the course of the novel as I started to care for her character and realise how real she seemed, as if she could exist right ahead of me. There’s more to India’s life and to this novel than a stint in Paris, it’s much, much more. Even though the French way of things might seem parfait, India knows it’s always better to be herself.
A real page-turning, glamorous, wonderful adventure, Letter From Paris was an amazing read that swept me away for the week. Even though I sway to the more YA side of things and prefer reading about characters around my age, I loved getting a little vacation from it and spending time reading India’s incredible story – and I can’t wait to read India’s Summer to get the full experience!
 Lovers of adventures, Contemporary fiction and Parisian fans!

happy reading!

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Blog Tour: “The Darkest Touch (Lords of the Underworld #11)” by Gena Showalter

Series: The Darkest Touch: Lords of the Underworld #11
Author: Gena Showalter
Published by: Harlequin 
Book Description:

From New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter comes the long-awaited story of Torin, the most dangerous Lord of the Underworld yet…

Fierce immortal warrior. Host to the demon of Disease. Torin’s every touch causes sickness and death—and a worldwide plague. Carnal pleasure is utterly forbidden, and though he has always overcome temptation with an iron will, his control is about to shatter.

She is Keeley Cael. The Red Queen. When the powerful beauty with shocking vulnerabilities escapes from a centuries-long imprisonment, the desire that simmers between her and Torin is scorching. His touch could mean the end for her, but resisting her is the hardest battle he’s ever fought—and the only battle he fears he can’t win.


Gena Showalter is a New York Times and USA TODAY bestselling author whose books have appeared in Cosmopolitan and Seventeen magazines, as well as Entertainment Weekly. Her novel Red Handed has been optioned by Sony Television. Critics have called her books “sizzling page-turners” and “utterly spellbinding stories,” while Showalter herself has been called “a star on the rise.” Her mix of humor, danger and wickedly hot sex provides wildly sensual page-turners sure to enthrall. 

She appeared in front of him, displaying more tanned skin than she concealed, her hair falling around her face in lush, golden waves. Her eyes glittered with remnants of her anger. Her lips were slightly swollen and pinker than usual.

“Temper much?” she quipped.

His relief was palpable. She hadn’t forgotten him! But the relief was quickly replaced by concern. “Are you all right? Did someone hit you?”

She blinked with confusion. “No. Why?” “Your lips are swollen.”

She rubbed them, color heating her cheeks. “Someone didn’t hit me, but someone sure did hit on me.”

Hit on her. As in kissed her.

Already on edge, Torin. Utterly. Erupted.

He forgot everything he’d planned to do and say and got in Keeley’s face, snarling, “Who was it?”

Her eyes widened. “Hades. Why?”

“You dare ask why? You belong to me! We agreed. You do not kiss other men, Keeley. Ever. Have you for- gotten my rules?”

Her jaw dropped, and she gasped out a few unintelligible words as if she couldn’t quite figure out what to say to him.

He stood in place, breathing too quickly, too heavily, his throat and lungs burning. He reached for her, but as so many times before, fisted his hands and dropped them just before contact. This is crazy. I’m crazy. I have to leave.

“Are you…thinking about touching me?” she asked, her eyes widening again.

No, she had to leave. He could not be in public right now. “Go shopping. Buy yourself something pretty. My treat.” He basically tossed his credit card at her. He should be calm by the time she finished. “Come back in an hour. Maybe two. Actually, we’ll reconvene to- morrow.”

“You are,” she said. “You’re thinking… Even craving me. You don’t like the thought of another man’s hands on me, and you want to replace the memory with your hands.”

That. Yes. Hades would die, and Torin…Torin would touch this woman and never stop.

He gnashed his molars. “Last chance, Keeley. I sug- gest you take it and leave.” Soon. His control was almost completely shredded.

“No way. You’re the big bad warrior, yet I’ve had to come on to you time and time again. I’ve had to battle within myself—worth the price or not worth it. Well, it’s your turn.”

“There is no damn way you just suggested I haven’t done the same. I’ve battled.”

“When have you ever caved without prompting from me? You’ve resisted me so easily, always walking away. Sure, you’ve snarled while you’ve done the walking, but still you left me behind. So, tell me. When did you ever—”

“So easily?” he roared. Had she just said so easily? She had no clue about the intensity of his need—but he would teach her better.

Torin cupped her by the nape, yanked her close and smashed his mouth against hers. The kiss was a brutal assault meant to silence her, to dominate and possess. He held her still, making her take it, take everything. But the moment she softened against him, welcomed him inside her mouth, the darkness churning inside him switched gears. From the need to punish and master to the need to seduce and please.

This was Keeley. His princess. She deserved his best. He gentled the pressure, rolling his tongue inside her mouth, learning her all over again, tasting her. Summer berries and melted honey. So sweet. And mine. All mine. He framed her cheeks, angled her head and rolled his tongue just a little deeper. This time, she met him with

a roll of her own.

That was his undoing.

I hadn’t read any of this series before and although some parts were a little confusing for me because of this, I wasn’t going to let that stop me from more of Gena’s amazing writing!
Torin, the main character in The Darkest Touch, is a Lord of the Underwood and is a keeper of the Disease, meaning that touching another person would mean them getting infected and ultimately, die. It’s rare, but a person can survive it and become a carrier. But that has just as disastrous consequences. 
Keeley is The Red Queen. She’s a fierce enemy to have and is quite powerful in her character. She’s the only survivor of her kind; The Curators. She has been betrayed many times and trusts very few. She’s been waiting to get her revenge ever since one of the few people she cared for was killed and Torin is top of her list to enact that vengeance. But it’s not as simple as either of them think anything will be. 
I loved The Darkest Touch. Gena’s writing is just as dazzling and compelling as in novels I have read of hers before. She manages to keep us guessing on what will happen on the next page which is hard to find in a novel – the moment where you couldn’t guess what would come next for the characters. The story was fast-paced, passionate and addictive, and even though this is my first time reading this series of Gena’s, I caught up quickly from Goodreads and from The Darkest Touch. It’s without a doubt that I’ll be picking up this series and adding it to my TBR immediately for the new year. 

There was humour, thrills, heros, villians, you name it. Keeley was my favourite character, her strength and character lighting up the pages. Her scenes with Torin were also captivating and moment-stopping and their relationship became one of my favourite things about the book. The Darkest Touch lived up to everything I thought it would and Gena’s writing is at the top of her game.
Overall, The Darkest Touch was enthralling, fascinating and consuming. If you haven’t picked up any of Gena’s books – you’re missing out on something engrossing on your bookshelf.

 Fans of Gena’s previous books in this series and Adult Paranormal fiction lovers. 

Have you read The Darkest Touch?


What did you think?


Tell me in the comments, on twitter or by using the hashtag #TheDarkestTouch

 

happy reading! 

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Book Review: “The Bear” by Claire Cameron (and Giveaway!)


Title: The Bear

Author: Claire Cameron
Genre: Adult – Contemporary/Suspense
Release Date: November 6th, 2014
Published by: Vintage (Random House)


★ I received this from Vintage Publishing for review. As always, my reviews are fair and non-bias. ★ 


 Anna is five. Her little brother, Stick, is almost three. 
They are camping with their parents in Algonquin Park, in three thousand square miles of wilderness. It’s the perfect family trip. But then Anna awakes in the night to the sound of something moving in the shadows. Her father is terrified. Her mother is screaming. Then, silence.

Alone in the woods, it is Anna who has to look after Stick, battling hunger and the elements to stay alive. Narrated by Anna, this is white-knuckle storytelling that captures the fear, wonder and bewilderment of our worst nightmares – and the power of one girl’s enduring love for her family.

The Bear sounded like a movie when I read the synopsis, like a fight for survival. But what gave my reading habits a change up was that this is straight from young children, with there being little adult voice. I love that I haven’t read anything similar to The Bear before, so going into it without knowing what it would be like was exciting. 

Anna is the narrator, a five-year old girl on a camping trip with her Parents and little brother; Stick, who is almost three. There isn’t another family around or anything for miles, wilderness surrounding them – and for a little while it seems like this is a perfect little family holiday – until disaster strikes in the most strange form. 
In the middle of the night, Anna doesn’t know why her father is scared or why her mother is screaming – she never yells. So when her and Stick are put to a somewhat momentary safe location by their father, Anna thinks everything will be okay. Her father will come and get them, or maybe her mother. 
But soon enough, Anna realizes that they are alone in their struggle. That she must look after Stick and keep him safe, no matter what happens. They battle hunger, darkness and scares in the woods, trying desperately to stay alive and find someone. Obstacles throw Anna and Stick, but Anna’s bravery keeps them together. Although five-year old Anna can’t comprehend what’s happening and where her Parents are truly, she is loyal and focused. Her thought patterns are impulsive and scared, then frustrated – but she doesn’t give up trying to keep her and Stick alive. 
The Bear is quite extraordinary. I’ve never read such a gripping, emotional and thought-provoking novel that battles the struggle of a child trying to comprehend a tragedy without any parental guidance or any guidance at all. Claire has written a believable, striking book with characters that no doubt seem real like the inspiration for the novel itself. I found myself hooked to Anna’s voice and felt determined for Anna and Stick on their journey. The ending couldn’t have been more perfect. It was not only an overall incredible story, but will stay with me for a very long time. 
Compelling, intense and exceptional, once you’ve read The Bear – it will be remembered.

Anna’s love for her family was a moment-pause and awe inspiring note.

For Adult Contemporary fans of Suspense and Thrills.

Thanks to the amazing people at Random House, I get to give away THREE copies of “The Bear”, you can enter here, Goodreads and on Twitter! So if you’re interested in reading it, enter below! 


Open: UK only


Have you read The Bear?

What did you think?


Tell me in the comments, on twitter or by using the hashtag #TheBear

 

happy reading! 

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Book Review: “Dead Until Dark” by Charlaine Harris (Halloween Week of Horrors)

Title: Dead Until Dark (Sookie Stackhouse #1)

Author: Charlaine Harris
Genre: Adult – Supernatural/Paranormal
Release Date: September 3rd, 2008
Published by: Ace Books


★ I bought this book myself and it was not gifted in any way. As always, my reviews are fair and non-bias. ★ 

Sookie Stackhouse is a small-time cocktail waitress in small-town Louisiana. 
She’s quiet, keeps to herself, and doesn’t get out much. Not because she’s not pretty. She is. It’s just that, well, Sookie has this sort of “disability.” She can read minds. And that doesn’t make her too dateable. And then along comes Bill. He’s tall, dark, handsome – and Sookie can’t ‘hear’ a word he’s thinking. He’s exactly the kind of guy she’s been waiting for all her life.
But Bill has a disability of his own: 
He’s a vampire. Worse than that, hangs with a seriously creepy crowd, with a reputation for trouble – of the murderous kind.
And when one of Sookie’s colleagues is killed, she begins to fear she’ll be next …

I started out reading Fantasy books before anything else, so naturally Vampires were going to appear in my reading habits at some point. Vampire books have come and gone (with some favourites in there) but True Blood has to be one of the most well-known and highly rated of them. So, for my Halloween Week of Horrors, I decided Vampires was on the list! And I delved into Sookie’s story and everything Bon Temps.

Sookie Stackhouse is your normal, small town girl with a regular job as a cocktail waitress. Except, well…she isn’t quite normal and this isn’t just any old small town. She lives in Bon Temps, where some Vampire behaviour is about to come rolling in. And she’s not that normal either – Sookie can read minds – and the craziness doesn’t end there.

Sookie had been waiting for a Vampire to come into the bar she worked for a long time, and one night, Bill does. He’s everything Sookie thought a Vampire would be; pale, beautiful and ordering the synthetic blood that had been manufactured since the years of the Vampires coming out of the coffin, as she put it. So when Bill gets himself into a little trouble, Sookie is quick to come to his defence when she has the upper hand of her mind-reading abilities. So Bill isn’t too hasty to want to repay the favor. 

Soon enough, Sookie and Bill are hanging out like normal friends do. He’s helping her Grandmother and she’s liking not having to hear his thoughts. It’s undeniable that they like each other, but when murders start happening in Bon Temps, there isn’t a finger that isn’t pointing to the new Vampire in town. So being the wise and charismatic character she is, Sookie decided to solve the case herself. But she was going to need Bill’s help, seen as their friend status was moving forward to dating. And when Sookie’s friends and family start getting roped in to the murders in town, she can’t just stay silent anymore. She had to find out who or what was killing the people she knew. 

Dead Until Dark was one of those books you can’t put down, not even if you wanted to. With Sookie’s charm and the book’s lively, gothic and enchanting small-town descriptions, I was reeled in to the dark and mysterious world that Charlaine created. I loved the way the Vampires weren’t your run-of-the-mill type and that Sookie was actually a one-of-a-kind character. Her point of view was interesting and smart, so much so that she was even funny in the way she thought about Vampires and made jokes. So it wasn’t all dark, there were some romantic, funny, heart-pounding moments thrown in. And I loved every second. 

Sophisticated, compelling and electrifying, Dead Until Dark is one Halloween read you don’t want to miss. 5 stars all the way. 

I think my favourite part would have to be the the final few chapters of mayhem and madness, where the story is unfolding piece by piece. 

Fans of Vampires, Fantasy and Paranormal things!

Have you read Dead Until Dark?

What did you think?


Tell me in the comments, on twitter or by using the hashtag #DeadUntilDark


happy reading! 

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Speed Review: “The Rosie Effect” by Graeme Simsion

Title: The Rosie Effect (Don Tillman #2)

Author: Graeme Simsion
Genre: Adult – Contemporary Romance
Release Date: December 30th, 2014 (UK)
Published by: Penguin 

AUTHOR SITE  | TWITTER | GOODREADS                                                                        
I received this from Penguin (with thanks to LoveReading) in exchange for an honest review. As always, my reviews are fair and non-bias. 

Join everyone’s favourite unconventional couple Don Tillman and Rosie in the next chapter of their love story

With the Wife Project complete, Don settles happily into a new job and married life in New York. But it’s not long before certain events are taken out of his control and it’s time to embark on a new project . . .

As Don tries to get to grips with the requirements of starting a family, his unusual research style soon gets him into trouble. To make matters more difficult, Don has invited his closest friend to stay with them, but Gene is not exactly a prime example of marital happiness, and as his life with Rosie continues to be unpredictable Don needs to remember that emotional support is just as important as his practical expertise . . .

definition: a “speed review” is a new meme on Pretty Little Memoirs, specialized for short reads, galley copies, reviews for lovereading.co.uk or novellas!


With thanks to Lovereading.co.uk and Penguin for the copy of The Rosie Effect for review! 

First thought when this arrived in my mailbox: YAY, YAY, YAY! 

The Rosie Effect is the immensely and highly anticipated sequel to The Rosie Project. I thoroughly adored The Rosie Project last year and as anyone who has read the book will know, it’s pretty unique. 
Don Tillman is quite the inimitable character as we learned in his Wife search in book one, when he found the woman he would love called Rosie in his “Wife Project”. Now married to Rosie in a lovely ceremony and then living in New York, Don is slowly adapting to his new life. That’s until Rosie drops the unexpected news that she’s pregnant, and it shatters Don’s plan for the near future. So armed with this new news, Don has to rethink everything he planned for him and Rosie, creating a whole new project for him to focus on that inevitably starts one of the best novels I’ve read this year. 
Don and Rosie really are the most hilarious, unique and fun characters in a book you’ll find. They’ll have you in hysterics, then crying, and then laughing again. The Rosie Effect was the perfect addition to The Rosie Project and I can’t wait to read more from Graeme Simsion’s witty, imaginative writing style. A marvellous, incredible story that will be top of everyone’s to-read list! You’ll fall for Rosie and Don time after time. 5 stars doesn’t cover it.  




Have you read The Rosie Effect?


What did you think?


Tell me in the comments, on twitter or by using the hashtag #TheRosieEffect




happy reading!



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Book Review: “The Proposal” by Tasmina Perry

Title: The Proposal

Author: Tasmina Perry
Genre: Adult Fiction – Contemporary 
Release Date: August 14th, 2014
Published by: Headline Review

I received this from Headline/Bookbridgr in exchange for an honest review. As always, my reviews are fair and non-bias. 

Just say yes to this unforgettable read and take a spellbinding, romantic journey from the dazzling days of the debutantes in 1950s London to glamorous modern Manhattan.


When Amy Carrell’s wealthy boyfriend ends their relationship just before Christmas, she’s left to nurse her broken heart alone. With nothing to lose, she replies to an advertisement requesting a companion for a mysterious ‘Manhattan adventure’.


Whisked off to New York with eccentric British aristocrat Georgia Hamilton, Amy experiences a glamorous side of the city that she’s never seen before. Along the way, Georgia initiates her protegee in the arts of old-school elegance.


But as Georgia shares her life lessons, Amy discovers a painful secret in her mentor’s past. A secret that shattered her future. A story of love and betrayal that only Amy has the power to put right.

The Proposal is quite different from your ordinary tale. It’s set in two different times; 1958 and 2012, centered around Amy and Georgia, the two lead characters of the novel.
Amy in 2012, had a dream to come to London to become a dancer, a dream that had many obstacles on the way. She worked in a restaurant to pay rent, but still longed for her big break. But suddenly the future she wanted is no longer written in the stars and she feels thrown back to square one. Longing to see her family back in New York, she stumbles across an Ad looking for a companion to the Big Apple and she becomes more determined than ever to see her family. 
Georgia in 1958, was quite similar to Amy in a lot of ways. At 18, her whole life changed. In 1950’s London, it was the place to be with the debutante season and eligible men. Looking for a husband should be at the top of Georgia’s list but she is very different to the other girls. Fancy parties and men were not on her radar at all.  So when a tragic event happens, she is even more uncertain about her future. 
But now, both Amy and Georgia’s futures were uncertain with the tragic times of ending relationships and bright futures ahead, leading to the start of a bittersweet story that would span more than fifty years in time. 
The Proposal was an amazing story of friendship, family, love and lies…and New York. It’s a breathtaking, unique novel that sparkles in it’s own right. Incredible. 
The parts with Georgia back in the 1950’s were my favourite parts – there was just something about her story that intrigued me more than Amy’s and I loved the originality of it all. It’s an incomparable book by far.

Adult Fiction readers, along with Romance and Contemporary readers! 


Have you read The Proposal?


What did you think?


Tell me in the comments, on twitter or by using the hashtag #TheProposal

happy reading!

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Blog Tour: “The Summer Guest” by Emma Hannigan {+ Emma’s Writing Tips!}

Title: The Summer Guest

Author: Emma Hannigan
Genre: Adult Fiction – Contemporary Women’s Fiction
Release Date: March 27th, 2014
Published by: Headline

I received this from Headline in exchange for an honest review. As always, my reviews are fair and non-bias. 

Perfect for fans of Maeve Binchy, a lovely, warm, Irish family saga of three generations of women coming together one magical summer in the small seaside town of Caracove Bay.




Lexi and her husband Sam have put their heart and soul into renovating No. 3 Cashel Square. Lexi’s mother thinks it’s high time they had a baby, but Lexi’s thriving art gallery keeps her more than busy. Plus her headstrong niece Amelie seems to have practically moved in. And then, just as summer arrives, a mysterious stranger knocks on the door. 
Kathleen Williams has come from America, longing to see the house in Cashel Square where she was born, over sixty years ago. Kathleen’s visit is tinged with sadness but she finds comfort and laughter with Lexie and Amelie. 
Soon the three women are sharing their hearts, tears and secrets, little knowing their unexpected friendship will touch them all in more ways than they can imagine…

The Summer Guest was a delightful and fresh idea influenced by friendship – that of three people in Caracove Bay, in Ireland. Their friendship is a very unusual one that sparks one day in the lovely little town. With Lexi, her marriage has turned from blissful to a nightmare almost overnight. 

For Kathleen, it’s grief and returning to Caracove Bay to the house she used to live in, even if it’s a plan she made with her late husband. But for Amélie, it’s being a teenager that’s got her life in a mess. If it’s not a boy, it’s her Parents fighting and questioning her at every chance they get. Lexi, Kathleen and Amélie grow a unique and amazing friendship, despite their ages, lives and problems. Having each other there to lean on when they need each other benefits each of them, even if it’s just talking and laughing with each other at the end of the day. 

I adored Emma’s writing style in The Summer Guest. Women’s Fiction has always been my go-to for Adult reads and books like Emma’s are the sole reason, with captivating towns and relateable characters and a plot to keep you hooked. 

Overall, ‘The Summer Guest’ is perfect for adult fiction lovers this summer. It’s the perfect book to read on the beach or on holiday. A must read.

Chick-Lit fans everywhere! Anyone who loves Women’s Fiction will adore this magical summer story.


Oh
dear Lord I always cringe when faced with the idea that I should instruct
anyone else on how to write a book! You see, I still think I’m a bit of a
fraud. I never had any sort of formal training when it comes to penning my
books. Writing became my profession quite by chance. At first it was purely my
therapy. My way of releasing my hopes dreams fears and anxieties while battling
cancer. Swiftly I realised it was exactly what I’ve always wanted to do. So how
did I begin? I literally sat one day and began to type. So I guess my first tip
has to be just that!
1.     Sit and go for it.
Nobody
else can write your book. Thinking
about writing doesn’t raise the word count. So find a quiet and comfortable
spot and get writing.
2.     Make some planning notes.
I
don’t mean twelve foolscap pages of intricate details. Just an idea of what
you’d like the story to be about. Going back to school English lessons – have a
beginning, middle and end. It doesn’t need to be set in stone as the story will
always evolve as you go along, but it’s vital to have clear ideas and will
ensure the pace is kept going swiftly as you advance through your story.
3.     Characters should be realistic.
Unless
you’re writing about a schizophrenic reclusive psychopath with a twitch who has
no grasp on reality, readers need to be able to identify with the characters.
Often the ones my readers love most are those that remind them of people they
know.
4.     Don’t be afraid to let go of your own emotions.
By
this I mean that it’s fine to laugh like a hyena even if you’re in a room on
your own accompanied only by your words. It’s OK to sob like a toddler being
left at crèche for the first time too. Odds are, if you find the story
hilarious or desperately sad, so too will your readers.
5.     If it’s boring cut it out.
You
are the first gauge on your own work. So if you feel the story or character is
boring and you don’t particularly care what happens to them, you can bet nobody
else will either. Less is more.
6.     Read over what you’ve written.
The
first draft of a book involves getting all the ideas out of your head. But once
you look at it again (perhaps after a few days break so you’re seeing it with a
fresh eye) any adjustments can be made. I don’t know a single author who has
completed a perfect novel on the first draft!
7.     Enjoy it!
That
may sound crazy, but writing is a craft and it won’t work unless you are
relaxed and enjoying the process. Magic won’t be made if the author is having
to squeeze each sentence onto the page as if it were a chore.
8.     Be yourself.
As
the late great Oscar Wilde famously said: “be yourself, everybody else is
already taken.” Finding your own unique voice (and we’re all born with one) is
key to knowing who you are as a writer.
9.     Read, read, read.
In
my mind, it would be impossible to become a good author without reading other
people’s work. In my mind it would be akin to having all the ingredients to
bake a cake without the method. Good writing involves learning and what better
way than absorbing other authors knowledge?
    10. Don’t give up!
Writing
can be difficult as it’s pretty much a solitary occupation. But believing in
what you’re doing is a must. If you don’t have dreams how can they ever come
true?
For
me, writing is a gift. I am so privileged to have my work published and I will
never take that for granted. With each book I learn so much more than before. I
am slowly developing my craft and coming to know who I am as a writer. I
embrace the ideas and guidance of my editors and publishing team. I endeavour
to make each book better than the last.

I
hope many more people go down the writing road. I for one would heartily
recommend it and already I’m looking forward to reading all your books! 



Emma Hannigan is the author of six bestselling novels including Keeping Mum and a bestselling memoir Talk to the Headscarf which charted her journey through cancer. Emma lives in Bray, Ireland, with her husband and two children.

For more about Emma, visit her website www.emmahannigan.com or follow her on Twitter @MsEmmaHannigan.

The Summer Guest is published by Headline in paperback on July 31st, priced £7.99

Don’t forget to stop by the previous posts for Emma’s tour!

Have you read The Summer Guest?


What did you think?


Tell me in the comments, on twitter or by using the hashtag #TheSummerGuest 


happy reading!

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Book Review: “If You Were Me” by Sheila O’Flanagan





Title: If You Were Me

Author: Sheila O’Flanagan
Genre: Adult – Women’s Fiction 
Release Date: July 3rd, 2014 (UK)
Published by: Headline Review

With thanks to Headline Review for the copy of this novel! As always, my reviews are non-bias and fair.

Carlotta O’Keefe is happily engaged, and the wedding plans are coming together. She’s clear about her future path, both personally and in her busy career. Maybe Chris doesn’t make her heart race every time she sees him, but you can’t have that feeling for ever. Can you?


Then, on a trip to Seville, Carlotta runs into Luke Evans. Luke broke her heart so long ago she’d almost convinced herself she’d forgotten him. Now, he’s not that boy any more, but an attractive and intriguing man. And he can explain everything that happened way back when.


Suddenly Carlotta’s not so sure of anything any more. Except that what she decides now will shape the rest of her life…

I’ve always wondered what Sheila O’Flanagan’s novels would be like after seeing my sister read them for years, so when I had the opportunity to read what looked like an amazing read, I jumped at the chance!
Carlotta O’Keefe has everything she could want in her life; a handsome doctor-fiancé and a job she loves among the many highlights. Although there are some things she isn’t liking about her life right now. Her mother-in-law to be and her sister-in-law to be are judgmental and always put her job down, but the thing that’s the worst is the constant comparisons to her fiancé Chris’s ex-fiancée. She knows they wish she wasn’t in the picture and they could be together again. 
When Carlotta has to take an important project that’s crucial to her career to Seville, she promises to be back before her mother-in-law’s birthday party. But a couple of incidents occur that delay her departure. The most startling one of all happens to have the past hurdling back up when she sees Luke Evans, her crush once-upon-a-time. He was quite literally the one that got away. He’s different from the Luke she once knew, the one who left in the middle of the night. Even though she loves Chris, she can’t stand his family. The new Luke is different in a million different ways, and she’s suddenly thrown from what she thought her life would pan out like. 
If You Were Me is a story about dilemmas, uncertain futures and everything about that future ends with a question mark. Carlotta now has to decide whether she wants the future she planned or something entirely unthinkable. Written by the incredible and highly-talented and much loved author; Sheila O’Flanagan, If You Were Me is going to be on bookshelves in many homes to come. Brilliant! 

I can’t tell the ending, but it was definitely my favourite part by far. Another favourite of mine was when Carlotta meets Luke again after the time and years they had spent apart. 

Anyone who loves Chick-Lit and Women’s Fiction. I’m a Young Adult book fan by heart, but it was a change that I didn’t mind – I now see why everyone loves a Sheila O’Flanagan novel!

Have you read If You Were Me?

What did you think? 

Tell me in the comments or at @LittleMemoirs on twitter!

happy reading!
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Book Review: “Deep Blue Sea” by Tasmina Perry

Title: Deep Blue Sea

Author: Tasmina Perry
Genre: Adult – Women’s Fiction 
Release Date: July 18th, 2013 (UK)
Published by: Headline Review

With thanks to Headline for the copy of this novel! As always, my reviews are non-bias and fair.

Passionate. Explosive. Impossible to put down. Tasmina Perry is back with her most spectacular novel yet.

 Beneath the shimmering surface lies a dark secret…

 Diana and Julian Denver have the world at their feet. With a blissful marriage, a darling son and beautiful homes in London and the country, Diana’s life, to the outside world, is perfect. But nothing is as it seems…

 When Julian dies suddenly and tragically, Diana is convinced there is more to it than meets the eye. She calls on the one person she had never wanted to see again – her sister, Rachel.

 A former tabloid reporter, Rachel appears to be living the dream as a diving instructor on a Thai island. The truth is she’s in exile, estranged from her family and driven from her career by Fleet Street’s phone-hacking scandal.

 For Rachel, Diana’s request opens old wounds. But she is determined to make amends for the past, and embarks on a treacherous journey to uncover the truth – wherever it may lead…

 The cover first got my attention (it looks like a vacation I’d love to be on) and then the summary just hooked me. I knew I had to read it! 

Deep Blue Sea is above all, what Women’s Fiction is all about, and it’s Tasmina Perry at her very best. I’ve only read two of her eight novels excluding Deep Blue Sea, but even now, this is my very favourite. I got a little “Revenge” (the TV show) vibe, because of the idyllic setting turned to tragedy, but that’s where the similarities end, nevertheless it being one of my favourite things that lured me in being the picturesque qualities. 
Diana and Julian have everything that anyone could ever want. They are wealthy and glamorous, living in luxury and Diana thought they were happy. But when Julian commits suicide, Diana doesn’t know where to turn. She’s lost in thoughts of doubt and worry and turns to her estranged sister; Rachel, who lives in Thailand after a bad career experience. 
When Diana turns to her sister, Rachel decides it’s about time that she solved the estranged relationship with her sister and help her in her time of need. So, travelling very far across many countries for Diana, Rachel also turns to uncovering the clues behind Julian’s sudden death. 
I was amazed by the very storyline and the characters that graced the pages. My favourite was Rachel by far, just because she seemed to stand out to me a lot more than Diana. She seemed strong and far more complex, in a good way. Diana was a great character, but the qualities I felt were stronger in a character came from Rachel’s character vibes. The mystery and suspense aspects were definitely what kept me reading. I was literally flicking the pages for hours in enthrallment. Tasmina Perry can definitely claim her place becoming one of my very favourite Women’s Fiction authors. I would say that if you’re a fan of glamorous, gripping novels with underlying mystery factors like a good TV show, then a Tasmina Perry novel is definitely for you. It lived up to my expectations and much more. 
Looking forward to more from Tasmina! A definite five star novel with charismatic characters and an alluring plot.

There’s a part near the ending and conclusions to the novel that was my favourite. Other than that, I think maybe my favourite parts were when a hint of mystery kicked in – it gave me a push to turn the pages quicker!


 Anyone who loves Tasmina Perry’s novels, Women’s Fiction and Chick-lit. Or if you’re a YA book lover thinking of moving up to some Adult novel’s, this would be a great fit.

Have you read Deep Blue Sea?

What did you think? 

Tell me in the comments or at @LittleMemoirs on twitter!

happy reading!
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Book Review: “The Girl Who Came Home” by by Hazel Gaynor




Title: The Girl Who Came Home

Author: Hazel Gaynor
Genre: Adult – Historical Fiction 
Release Date: April 1st, 2014 (UK)
Published by: Harper Collins

With thanks to Harper Collins for the copy of this novel! As always, my reviews are non-bias and fair.

A voyage across the ocean becomes the odyssey of a lifetime for a young Irish woman. . . . 
Ireland, 1912; Fourteen members of a small village set sail on RMS Titanic, hoping to find a better life in America. For seventeen-year-old Maggie Murphy, the journey is bittersweet. Though her future lies in an unknown new place, her heart remains in Ireland with Séamus, the sweetheart she left behind. When disaster strikes, Maggie is one of the few passengers in steerage to survive. Waking up alone in a New York hospital, she vows never to speak of the terror and panic of that fateful night again.

Chicago, 1982 . . .

Adrift after the death of her father, Grace Butler struggles to decide what comes next. When her great-grandmother Maggie shares the painful secret about Titanic that she’s harbored for almost a lifetime, the revelation gives Grace new direction—and leads both her and Maggie to unexpected reunions with those they thought lost long ago. 
Inspired by true events, The Girl Who Came Home poignantly blends fact and fiction to explore the Titanic tragedy’s impact and its lasting repercussions on survivors and their descendants.

I was instantly intrigued by the story behind The Girl Who Came Home, and I’ve just begun diving into the Historical Fiction side of reading in Adult and YA reads. Hazel Gaynor’s novel looked just like what I was looking for.

Hazel Gaynor has written an exquisite tribute to the Titanic and it shows completely through the story as the plot plays out. I could see the extent to where Hazel had researched every detail of the events that follow and seep out into the storyline. 
Maggie and Grace were both very different characters in personality stances, and to see the development of each character built throughout the novel was really refreshing to read about, also knowing of the true events that had weaved into the book, too.
We all know something about the Titanic, whether it’s the little things or some of us may know more being History fans. Anyway I look at it, Hazel Gaynor has done a beyond amazing job of the extensive description, emotion and gripping events. I was mesmerized by every detail that just seemed to echo originality and charm. The Girl Who Came Home is a heartbreaking emotional read, keeping readers on their toes. It was ultimately about finding tranquility in the past, overcoming events and of course; love. 
It was different to most other Historical Fiction I’ve read, but I still managed to connect with the characters and care about them, which says a lot about how powerful the story has managed to pull me into it’s grip. There are just parts that left me speechless and other times where the descriptive narrative painted an image into my mind beautifully of those times, even as tragic as they were. 

Without giving too much away, finding the symbolism or peace within the story was my favourite part of The Girl Who Came Home or definitely the Maggie parts. I liked Grace’s parts, too, but Maggie’s were just incredible. 

Historical love-story fans, Historical Fiction fans or people who are fascinated with the Titanic or want to know more about it’s events. I would say just take a chance on it, because even the books we don’t think we’ll click with, just might surprise you.



Have you read The Girl Who Came Home?

What did you think? 

Tell me in the comments or at @LittleMemoirs on twitter!

happy reading!
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