Dry Hard is a laugh-out-loud comedy that’s often a little over the top. At times the humour is witty and clever and perhaps a bit crass at others. The premise of two alcoholics giving up drinking was interesting but taken quite lightly and whilst the book did have me laughing, the story wasn’t quite enough for me to sink my teeth into. Great if you need cheering up.
Genre: Comedy fiction
Rating: 3.75/5⭐️
His & Hers
The story is told from two points of view; ‘his’ and ‘hers’. After a tragic event, the couple parted ways but a murder brings them back together when they realise they’re both connected to the victim.
The narrations on the audiobook are really good and really being the characters to life. The voice changer used for the ‘killer’ took me a little while to get used to but was certainly atmospheric.
The story was well paced and hooked me in straight away – I was desperately listening in every free moment I had. It unfolds really well and there are plenty of twists and turns.
Whatever format you choose – you’ll enjoy this book.
Genre: thriller
Rating: 4/5⭐️
This was a change of direction for Rachel Burton and as I’d enjoyed all of her other books, I was definitely intrigued by this new style cover. The Teashop on the Bay does feel different and whilst lighter in tone, maintains the same warm depth, loveable characters and wonderful descriptions that I’d expect.
I loved Ellie and Ben’s story. At times I was second-guessing and I wasn’t sure where it would end. Whilst this book is set at Christmas, I read it on a hot beach in Greece and still managed to be transported to the gorgeous, snowy Sanderson Bay. Overall, I loved the story, the characters and setting. I raced through this one and I couldn’t wait to see how it ended. It’s guaranteed to leave you feeling warm and content.
Rating: 5/5
Genre: contemporary romance
I’ll never fail to enjoy Audrey Davis’ brand of romantic comedy. A Wish for Jinnie is a fun read packed with a comedic rhythm that keeps the story well-paced and entertaining throughout. I loved Jinnie, and Jeanie Dhassim as much as I enjoyed Sam’s character and the blossoming romance. Audrey Davis always developed does develop fantastic characters though and Jinnie’s gran just leapt off the page – she was fab. The story itself is well developed and believable because despite the element of magic and fantasy the characters’ lives are a reflection of our own.
If you want to lose yourself for a few hours of heartfelt fun, this is definitely the perfect book for you.
Genre: romantic comedy
Rating: 5/5⭐️
I hadn’t read the first book in the Gaby Darin series but that in no way hampered my understanding of Jenny O’Brien’s latest instalment, Darkest Night. The opening grabs you straight away with a hook that’s puzzling to say the least, What should be a cut and dry case transpires to be something more when Detective Darin gets involved. She’s a great heroine, flawed yet driven in her field and no stone is left unturned. The story is told in multiple POV and I really loved this extra dimension that added to the pace.
There is some wonderful camaraderie between characters and there’s a highly satisfying ending. I raced through this book – it kept me on the edge of my seat trying to work out what the heck had happened.
Genre: Crime / Thriller
Rating: 5/5⭐️
Becoming is the insightful, honest story of Michelle Obama’s life before, during and a little after her time as the First Lady of the USA.
I listened to the audiobook, which I highly recommend as Michelle narrated it herself, so you get the true context, emotion and feeling of her words. She’s a wonderful storyteller who speaks with eloquence and grace. What comes through is that Michelle is a person who not only understands, but sees people without judgement and has a passion to help those who need it most. She highlights causes without preaching and manages to talk about her achievements without boasting – which I think could be because she’s never forgotten her own humble upbringing.
I don’t read or listen to many autobiographies but I’d heard so much about this one I had to give it a go. I was surprised by just how good it was!
Genre: Autobiography
Rating: 5/5⭐️
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