This was a random selection from my local library. I loved this story between two completely different individuals: Aleisha and Mr P. Both going through challenging times, a mentally ill mother and grief, but they connected through a series of books from a mystery list.

This is genuinely a lovely story and as a result, I reserved three books from the "reading list" at my oval library. I even recommended this to my librarian.

I couldn't put this book down. Felt more like a short story based on the time it took to read. Hatch kept the reader on their toes, wanting more at the end of every narrative.

Many years ago I read and wrote about Chocolat by Joanne Harris for my Higher English essay. I loved the book, I think that may be partially due to the fact I could eat my body weight in chocolate in 1 sitting.
Picked this up at the library, turns out it's a sequalto Chocolate. It's taking longer to read the first few chapters as I try to remember the characters and their story lines.

Also showing off my new Alice in Wonderland book buddy.

I really enjoyed the tale told by C.J Cooke, a story based around the Scottish witch trials, folklore and wildlings. Suspenseful and skin tingling at times, particularly when the story is being told by the characters in the past. Made me check my children for marks 🤣🤣 I look forward to more by this author.

A small book haul, picked up some in Waterstones on a child-free day. I could spend hours perusing the bookshelves of that store.

I also love the smell of new books 🤣🤣

I am currently trying to get through some last minute training in preparation for my half marathon in October. I have lost momentum and stamina so clinging on to every km I can run.

Question is, does anyone run listening to audiobooks, or is music the gold standard? My husband listens to podcasts but I'm not sure....

Thoughts/ recommendations?

Whenever I go to the library, and one book catches my eye - I must admit I look at a few reviews on Litsy to determine if it's one to read.

Well- 49 pages in and I can tell I am going to enjoy this read. Compared to my last read, I am thoroughly enjoying the language used and the storytelling by Emma Straub. Can't wait to see how this story develops.

I didn't want to pan this one, but it wasn't really one for me. A story about a girl, Maggie, who becomes obsessed with a girl from work Sabine. Goes through a self-destructive phase, with a lot of drugs, alcohol and dodgy clubs.

Not my usual read, but I saw it through. Basically, you don't really know what your "friends" are like deep down, everyone has secrets and a past that they are not willing or need to share.

I wanted to finish this sooner, but sadly due to a 3+hour evacuation from my workplace in the sun (with pale, Scottish skin) meant that wasn't to be. I completed it at night, whilst nursing my sunburn.
I genuinely liked this book to begin with, the flashbacks and little snippets of info that would later make sense. However, as it progressed I became annoyed at the narcissist tendencies of Martha, who defined herself by her mental illness.

I am off on annual leave today, looking after my 2 girls. I got up at 5am, ran 5.5km, showered then sat down in silence with my breakfast and ☕ , and read this beauty for almost an hour before the rest of the house stirred.

Moments like this are bliss!

This was a fairly enjoyable read about 4 characters, 2 of which are friends. I saw the end coming a mile away sadly and it all ended very abruptly. There were some good parts though, but disappointed that they weren't explored in more depth or let to develop to change the course of the story.

Have you ever read a book that you wish you could re-read again just to experience all the emotions and get lost in the writers descriptions all over again?

This is the book for me. Simply beautifully written, and was a pure joy to read. Do I see the film now? Verdict is still out on that one, but for now I wish to relish in the satisfaction of finishing a spectacular read!

Wow, just wow is all I can say.

In 2 days I haven't been able to put this down but had to as solo parenting this weekend.

#currentlyreading

OK... so it wasn't awful - enjoyable, an easy read and made me continue reading whilst my eyes were dropping and I needed to sleep.

However, I never connected with any of the characters, their actions were the focus on a book about colour and how race can affect how others are viewed in certain situations. As a reader, it made me think more about how our own actions may be perceived by others, thought provoking more than anything.

Started an audio book for my commute home, hoping to get some inspiration 🤞🏻

Started this book today, been a while since I wanted to read 📚 can't wait to see where the story will go 😆

A few years back, I remember seeing Marian Keyes on TV, and loved the way she would tell stories, she is an absolutely hilarious woman who is down to earth and has battled some demons in her life. I can't wait to start this collection of short stories/essays, hope I won't be crying with laughing standing on the pitch while on the school pick up!

My first audio book completed, may have taken a few weeks as I only listened while doing the school run, or when I was painting our new bedroom. In fairness, this book was ok, nothing spectacular but it did have a few twists and turns I wasn't expecting. Perhaps I would have rated it more if I had actually read it? Murder, trafficking and family secrets, ok for a cold December day!

Came across the other day and I hope its as funny as his shows! I was planning on starting tonight, but doubt the language would be appropriate as bed time story material, particularly as the word scrotum appears on page 5! 😂😂

Everyone has a nosey on their neighbours, right?? It's harmless... but not in this case.

I read a few reviews as I started this book, and saw that it was being made into a film. As I was reading it, it felt like it was written to be made into a movie and I was getting slightly bored half way through.
The story took a twist which got me hooked and I loved every page afterwards. I didn't see the truth coming and thought it was a great ending.

Due to Covid, my local library has a "click and collect" system in place where you can request certain titles or simply tell them what genres you prefer and they choose books for you - a lucky dip!

This book was one chosen for me, as I am just getting into my reading again after what feels like a long absence! I wish I hadn't lost the reading bug, but after completing my PhD in 2015 I quite simply could not read for pleasure anymore ?

Thoroughly enjoyed the book by Beth O'Leary! A story about Tiffy & Leon who share a bed, but have actually never met. The set up works and the plotline takes the reader through ups and downs and deals with some dark issues with both characters. I look forward to reading more from Beth

Nothing better than a good book and a baby snuggle. My 8 week old had her first set of immunisations today, so she's currently wanting lots of cuddles as she's a bit put out. I'm multitasking and getting some reading in too, loving this book at the moment.

The baby is asleep, the dishes are done, husband and daughter are out. Made myself a large coffee (due to having a 7 week old) and now getting ready to be immersed in Tom Hank's short stories. I bet I will get through 2 pages before little miss decides she wants to wake up!

A lucky dip book choice. I haven't read the other books in the David Dunnigan series, but this didn't stop me from following the plot.

The characters were stereotypical- an Irish priest who was part of the crime underworld, wore a leather jacket, liked to drink and meant to be like Colin Farell. The story was ok, it wasn't particularly believable and the end was wrapped up very quickly. Not a particularly memorable book.

My first audio book. Looking forward to trying something new, but can't guarantee my concentration will see me follow the plot due to interrupted sleep with a 6 week old baby.

Accepting the challenge

Setting time aside today to read with my 5 year old who is currently learning how to read. It may not be my choice of literature, but she loves it and thats all that matters. We gave purchased the works of Roald Dahl for her Christmas so hope she catches the reading bug too.

#readalong
#readingwithkids

The first book i have read in a long time, due to work commitments, generally being too tired or simply, netflix was the easier choice than picking up a book. The story is one of suspense, what was the secret at the Institute and what happened to all the children taken for their abilities. It keep the readers attention and enjoyable read as King has a way of writing that feels like you are part of the story, feeling the emotion of the characters.